Viper Nation Education Foundation raises more than $1 million

Employees of security company SailPoint crowd the front entrance of their new building prior to the start of the Feb. 4 ribbon-cutting ceremonies marking the culmination of a three-year
project.

By LYNETTE HAALAND, Four Points News

The Viper Nation Education Foundation surpassed a milestone at the 9th annual gala on Saturday night — raising more than $1 million dollars over nine years for local education.

“I think it is a testament to our success that we have been able to raise over a million dollars since inception that was able to be put to work in our schools to enhance the educational experience and opportunity for our students,” said William Farrell, president of VNEF.

Nearly 200 guests attended the Viper Nation Gala on Feb. 2 at Star Hill Ranch, the quaint re-created Texas Hill Country community off Hamilton Pool Road in Bee Cave. All of the buildings on site have been relocated from around the state and restored making a “town” typical of the early 1900s.

Dan Troxell, Leander ISD superintendent, Charlie Little, Vandegrift principal, and Farrell spoke about the many benefits of the foundation and how it serves the community. Drew Sanders, VHS athletic director and head football coach, did the coin toss for the popular Heads-or-Tails game.

VNEF has give out more than 100 grants over the past nine years mostly to the eight public schools in Four Points. Funds raised by VNEF go to such things as middle and high school college readiness programs, STEM nights, robotics, leadership programs, professional development, library tools, language programs, school gardens, and more.

The University of Texas Cowboy volunteers added to the flare of the gala, decked out in their cowboy hats and chaps.

The Jeep raffle drawing was held during the gala and Sandy Falgout was the winner.

After dinner, the auctions and program, the Teddy Long Band played into the night.