Thank you for an incredible evening!
Friday, March 20, 2026 • Dover Hall
Photos by Cassie Strong Photography
What a night! GEF’s Annual Gala raised over $85,000 to support educational opportunities for students throughout Goochland County Public Schools—and it was a celebration to remember.
Guests stepped into a sold-out masquerade ball murder mystery, donning masks and channeling their inner detective to solve an immersive whodunit performed by students from the Goochland High School Drama Department, directed by Mr. Neil Burch with costumes designed by Ashley Hyer. The talent in that room was something special—and a perfect example of what GEF programs help make possible.
The evening also featured desserts crafted by Culinary Arts students at Goochland High School under the direction of Chef Bill Erlenbach, along with live auction bidding, raffle prizes, and the always-exciting 50/50 drawing.
A huge thank you to the GHS Marketing and Design Team, Market Up—and especially to the Graphic Design students in Mrs. Day’s classes—for creating the beautiful branding and visuals that brought this event to life.
As GEF CEO Cyndy Brown reflected: “This evening was a powerful reminder of what makes Goochland so special. When our community comes together around education, the impact is truly extraordinary. Every dollar raised goes directly toward giving our students the opportunities they deserve, and tonight’s generosity will be felt in Goochland County classrooms for years to come.”
A heartfelt thank you to Presenting Sponsor HHHunt, our 47 sponsors, and every individual donor who made this evening—and the work of GEF—possible.
Thank You to our 2026 Sponsors
Your sponsorship of the Goochland Education Foundation’s Annual Gala goes beyond an evening of entertainment—it’s an investment in our community’s future.
Wheelbarrow of Cheer: A brand new wheelbarrow, filled to the brim with assorted liquors Stock your bar with this fabulous auction item. It has everything for hosting a great party – except the guests!
Barbour Classic Beaufort Jacket for Men or Classic Beadnell Jacket for Women from Orvis: A Barbour jacket is the quintessential outerwear that is perfect for everyday – whether for walks in the woods or running around town. Designed in a traditional country style, it is synonymous with style and practicality. The winner can choose either a man’s or woman’s jacket.
Sapphire and Diamond earrings: Stunning flower-shaped 1.49 CTW sapphire earrings surrounded by .04 CTW diamonds set in 18K gold.
Diamond hoop earrings: Beautiful hoop earrings set in 18K gold with .66 CTW diamonds.
Point, Aim, Shoot! at Rasawek Hunting Preserve: You won’t have to worry about anything but your aim during this guided quail hunt for four with complimentary lunch. The season begins October 1st and ends March 31st. Dogs are provided but guests are welcome to bring their own dogs. There is no bag limit. Birds are cleaned, packaged and tagged for your convenience.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail: 3-night getaway in a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence located on the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky. Includes tour and tasting of three of America’s finest distilleries and a steak dinner at Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse.
New Orleans Getaway: 3-night stay in a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom luxury residence that will accommodate up to 4 guests.
Seville Spain: 4-night stay in a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom private residence in downtown Seville that will accommodate up to 4 guests.
SkyScape Grand Canyon: 3-night glamping experience in a deluxe skydome located in the Grand Canyon for a family of five. Includes fireside s’mores, live music every evening and star-gazing with telescopes.
Under the Tuscan Sun: 7-night stay in a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment in Cortona, Italy. Includes trip welome aperitivo in the coolest wine bar in town and lunch in a winery with private visit and tastings.