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The Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) Development Foundation is taking its 17th annual fundraising gala to a new level with the addition of mobile bidding technology.Partnering with 501 Auctions, this year’s event, slated for November 1, is foregoing the traditional pen and paper silent auction process and replacing it with mobile bidding that allows guests to bid from their smartphone. “After 17 years, we felt like this event had reached its maximum potential with traditional bidding,” said Jennifer Walker, executive director of the NEO Development Foundation.
“With the mobile bidding technology, guests will receive a text notification once they have been outbid. This will allow guests the opportunity to mingle with friends and enjoy the entertainment without constantly getting up to check the bid sheets of items they are hoping to win.” The instant text notifications help foster active participation among bidders and allow for supporters who weren’t able to attend the event a chance to be involved. “Our gala is sold out every year,” added Walker. “With mobile bidding, we are able to make sure more people can participate by opening the silent auction to supporters who can’t make the evening event. Once they bid on items, they will get text alerts at home and can compete against those attending the evening gala.”
On Thursday, November 1, from 11am-5pm, NEO will host a special preview event for those not attending the gala. Guests can stop by the Bruce G. Carter Student Union and enjoy free food and drink while and place bids on more than 250 silent auction items. Alternatively, donors can register online now to begin bidding. “Our silent auction will have something for everyone. In fact, we have 250 items this year,” added Walker. “From gift certificates and home décor to gift baskets and electronics, this is fun way to score wonderful items and support a great cause.”
All of the proceeds from the auction will fund scholarships to deserving students in need and fund campus and academic projects supported by the NEO Foundation. “And if bidding isn’t your thing, you can still register and simply give a donation to the NEO Foundation or support this year’s designated campus program, NEO Football.” To register for the mobile bidding of silent auction items, please visit neo.edu/2018gala. For more information on the silent auction or for tickets to the Glitz and Gridiron Gala, please call the NEO Foundation office at 918-540-6250.
