College of the Florida Keys Hosts 60th Anniversary Gala in Key West

The College of the Florida Keys and the CFK Foundation will stage a 60th Anniversary Gala, themed "Infinite Horizons: Pioneering Success Since 1965," at Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, on March 27, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. The outdoor event on the museum’s grass lawn will feature fine dining, cocktails, live music by the Bay Kings Band, and dancing under the stars.

CFK says proceeds from the 60th Anniversary Gala will support student scholarships, academic and workforce programs, and other initiatives that empower CFK students. The CFK Foundation’s annual fundraiser ties into a broader slate of development activity this academic year, including a virtual silent auction now live through Silent Auction Pro offering adventure and travel experiences, dining and catering packages, art, jewelry and books. Dr. Lana Gaspari, CFK vice president of advancement and CFK Foundation executive director, framed the fundraiser’s purpose: "Every bid, every ticket, and every sponsorship represent something bigger than supporting an event…Each one is an investment in a student’s future and in the next 60 years for the College and our community."

CFK President and CEO Dr. Jonathan Gueverra situated the gala in the college’s long arc of change, noting the institution’s expansion: "The college has evolved from our humble beginnings. Yet, it remains steadfast and committed to providing life‑changing opportunities to students while responding to the dynamic academic, workforce and lifelong learning needs of the Keys," and he added that CFK has built relationships that "strengthen our island chain and have global impact." The college serves communities from Key West through Key Largo and now offers programming from high school diplomas to bachelor degrees and workforce training across multiple campuses.

The 60th celebration is part of a year-long campaign that began Aug. 19 with the start of the fall semester and runs through June 2026. As part of the anniversary, CFK is developing a historical exhibit of photographs, news stories and artifacts that will debut Nov. 1 at the Key West campus library during Community Day; alumni, employees and community members are invited to contribute photos, memorabilia and personal stories by emailing alumni@cfk.edu.

Practical details for attendees: parking at Fort East Martello is limited, with overflow parking available at CFK’s Key West campus though not for overnight use, and Keys Cocktail attire is encouraged with attention to the outdoor grass-lawn setting. FloridaWeekly describes participation options tied to CFK fundraising—bid in the virtual silent auction, "Reserve a table or buy an individual ticket," with the outlet advising, "Gather a group of 10 and join the celebration in person at the Islander Resort," and become a sponsor to receive recognition at CFK events. For tickets, sponsorship information or logistical questions including parking and accessibility, CFK directs inquiries to Dr. Lana Gaspari at 305-809-3214 or foundation@cfk.edu and to the college’s 60th anniversary information page on the CFK website.

CFK’s promotional push calls the gala a "party with a purpose," and CFK staff say the evening is meant both to honor six decades of local higher education and to fund the next generation of Keys students. As Dr. Gaspari put it, "For 60 years, The College of the Florida Keys has been opening doors for students across our community. This year, we’re not just celebrating that legacy. We’re building on it.