The Colorado Mesa University (CMU) Maverick Hoedown, a dinner and live musical fundraiser, took place on Aug. 22, and drew over 20 major sponsors and 650 total people in attendance.
“We’ve been doing this for at least 15 years,” past Chairman of the Board of CMU Trustees Lena Elliott said. “The last several years, all of the proceeds have gone to athletics scholarships.”
The Hoedown has always benefitted a different department or organization, and has gone through some changes before, such as being a renaissance ball during its earlier days.
Taking place in the Meyer Ballroom, sponsors could buy a table at the event, with many Mesa athletes in attendance as well. For the night, there was a special program honoring CMU President Tim Foster, featuring an original song dedicated to Maverick athletics.
After a western-style barbecue put on by Sodexo, each team coach put on a cowboy hat and was introduced to the room, in the order that their sport was introduced at CMU. After the dinner, the cheerleading team line danced, and invited attendees to join in. A live band played through a part of the night as well, with an open bar serving as a place to mingle.
“Our goal this year is to make $100,000 that will go directly to athletic scholarships,” Elliott said.
Mikayla Olave for The Criterion 
Mikayla Olave for The Criterion 
Mikayla Olave for The Criterion
