GRAND FORKS, N.D.  — Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and guests, a record amount of nearly $350,000 was raised at the North Dakota Champions Ball in April.

Held every two years, the Champions Ball is the largest single fundraiser for University of North Dakota Athletics. Proceeds support student-athlete scholarships and priority needs in the department.

More than 800 supporters of UND Athletics attended this year's event, which was sponsored by Altru Health System. Guests were able to bid on more than 120 silent and live auction items ranging from one-of-a-kind UND gear to destination vacations.

"I was so pleased to attend my first Champions Ball," said Bill Chaves, UND Director of Athletics. "The passion of our fans and the chance to celebrate and support our outstanding student-athletes made for a special evening. To top it off with a record-breaking fundraising total makes it all the more satisfying."

University of North Dakota Athletics Department scholarships cost more than $5 million annually.

"The Champions Ball is a great way for fans of UND Athletics to directly make an impact on our student-athletes," said DeAnna Carlson Zink, '86, CEO of the UND Alumni Association & Foundation. "I am in awe of the passion that our alumni and friends have for UND Athletics. Their support makes all the difference in the world to these students who represent the University on the court, ice and field."

For more information, contact Val Sussex, Director, North Dakota Champions Club; 701.777.4078 or vals@UNDfoundation.org.

The UND Alumni Association & Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization, raises and manages funds that secure a strong future for UND and its students, faculty and alumni.