CCE Celebrates 31st Anniversary

Susan and Dom Telesco
(Capehart)

(Press Release) (Palm Beach, FL) -- The Susan and Dom Telesco Center for Creative Education (CCE) hosted a Spring Dinner celebrating its 31st Anniversary titled The Art of Giving on March 3 at Club Colette in Palm Beach. The evening, chaired by Pam Miller, Laura Rehnert and Margaret Sinclair, was a record-breaking success, raising nearly $2 million toward CCE’s commitment to elevating education by integrating creativity, innovation and personalized learning to drive student success.
 
The sold-out event had 150 guests. In addition to the chairs, guests included Susan and Dom Telesco, Irene and Jim Karp, Norma and Bill Tiefel, Phyllis and Bill Mack, Cindy and Ron McMackin, Betsy and James Meany, James Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui, Tom Quick, Elizabeth Wetherell, Mary Mahoney and Don Burns.

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“This evening was a celebration of both generosity and impact,” said Pam Miller, Event Chair and CCE Board Member. “The funds raised tonight ensure that more students at CCE’s The Foundations School have access to the arts-focused education model that has proven to unlock their potential and creativity. CCE is changing the way students learn and achieve results, and it has been an honor to support their mission. We’re incredibly grateful to all the donors who are helping us expand access to this proven approach.”
 
CCE addresses the critical challenge of improving literacy among elementary students through three key strategies: direct services to students, direct support for parents and caregivers and direct impact on the education field. CCE operates The Foundations School (TFS), an independent K-5 demonstration school that improves literacy and reimagines education through the arts for underserved students. As part of CCE’s larger mission, TFS works alongside community programs, educator training and family engagement initiatives to create pathways to academic excellence. Philanthropic support and state scholarships help ensure that tuition remains affordable—often at little or no cost—so students have access to the education they deserve.
 
"Education is the great equalizer, but only if it meets the needs of students and families," said Robert L. Hamon, President and CEO of CCE. "According to 'The Nation’s Report Card,' only 31 percent of U.S. fourth graders read at grade level, just 24 percent for low-income students. The system is failing them. At CCE, we take action—early intervention, data-driven instruction, and tailored support. While only 25 percent of third graders in nearby schools are proficient, 80 percent of our students reach grade level, and 100 percent of those with us for three years succeed. Education isn’t just about students, it’s about families. Our Parent Academy supports caregivers, and our Blue Planet Global Education program expands worldviews. With 208 instructional days instead of 180, we give students the time they need. Change demands action. At CCE, we are that ‘something significant’ in a child’s life, shifting their trajectory toward academic success, lifelong confidence and a future filled with opportunity.”

A major highlight of the night was the unveiling of a one-of-a-kind artwork by internationally acclaimed artist Laurent Dareau, created after mentoring TFS’ afterschool art club students through the artistic process. Their journey began with a trip to the zoo, where they sketched what inspired them—sketches that later became full canvas paintings. Laurent’s piece captured not just that moment, but the personality and uniqueness of each student, a reflection of the time he spent guiding them. The experience reinforced the evening’s theme of giving—Laurent giving his time and talent and the students giving their trust, effort and persistence, culminating in their own gallery exhibition. The painting was auctioned off, with all proceeds benefiting CCE programming.
 
The evening’s call for support opened with a powerful announcement from master auctioneer and longtime CCE supporter, Tom Quick. He shared the incredible news of a $100,000 donation from abroad by Patrick Park, given in honor of his dear friends, Susan and Dom Telesco. Their generosity, rooted in a 30-year friendship and a shared commitment to providing children with new opportunities, set the stage for what followed—an inspiring show of community support to ensure every child has access to the education they deserve.

Capping off a night that raised an outstanding $1 million, the event concluded with a monumental announcement: a transformative $1 million gift from longtime CCE champions, Irene and Jim Karp. Their generosity will name the First Floor Learning Center of The Foundations School, a lasting testament to their unwavering commitment to educational excellence and opportunity for all.

The dinner menu boasted a BLT salad appetizer, the main course of petite filet mignon and grilled shrimp served with haricots vert almondine and scallop potatoes. To wrap up the night, guests enjoyed a decadent chocolate souffle.
 
Proceeds from the Spring Dinner directly support CCE’s innovative programs, including student scholarships for TFS, arts-based curriculum development and partnerships that provide essential resources to families. CCE programs such as the Karakul-Held Academy provide extended learning opportunities to more than 4,000 Palm Beach County students annually and the DePorres Place Adult Literacy Center at CCE provides workshops on English as a second language, basic literacy and financial literacy, digital skills and parenting strategies, along with self-care.
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For additional information on The Foundations School or Center for Creative Education, visit cceflorida.org. To make a donation toward a scholarship, please call Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla at 561.805.9927; extension 106.