The event will culminate with a live auction and reception at the University of Miami Lowe Art Museum on Oct. 27. Items up for bid include lunches with professors, vacations packages, spa and restaurant certificates. The proceeds from the auction will help establish summer fellowships for students who are interested in public interest and advocacy work.
"Hope fellowships enable students to make the choice to engage in critically needed public interest work by funding their efforts each summer," said Marni Lennon, director of the HOPE Public Interest Resource Center. The Center began as a small community service project in 1998. Today, it has become the home of more than 25 advocacy initiatives promoting access to justice throughout the world.
Last summer, auction proceeds helped fellows make a difference in the lives of underrepresented individuals. 20 students received $5,000 stipends and were sent to work domestically in Florida, Illinois, Washington D.C., Georgia, and Wisconsin, and internationally in Africa and Colombia.
HOPE has also chosen to recognize Miami Law alumnus H.T. Smith, '73, with the first ever HOPE Distinguished Leader in Public Service award for his exceptional commitment to public interest and pro bono work. For more than 25 years, Smith has been one of Miami's leading trial attorneys. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of the University of Miami's Board of Trustees.
University of Miami staff, faculty and students can attend the live auction free of charge with a valid Cane ID. General admission will cost $25. The event will include live music, cocktails and hors d'oeuvers.
HOPE to Kick Off 13th Annual Auction
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL 33124
305-284-2211