Projections indicate that a Memorial Day benefit concert at Utah State University raised upwards of $100,000. The concert, headlined by Donny Osmond, raised money supporting scholarships and development areas in USU’s departments of music and theatre arts.

The evening’s activities, including a pre-concert dinner, involved the efforts of many, including production and support staff of the Caine School of the Arts, the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences and the Advancement office at USU.

“The evening was more than we could have hoped for,” said Ross Peterson, USU vice president for advancement. “Donny Osmond and the chorus were fantastic, and everyone had a great preview of a wonderful venue at Riverwoods. USU’s music and theatre programs and numerous USU students will benefit from the generosity of those who provided support through their attendance.”

The pre-concert dinner was held at the Riverwoods Conference Center, a new facility in downtown Logan and was among the first activities at the center’s Elements restaurant. Guests were greeted by USU President Stan Albrecht, event organizer Craig Jessop and other dignitaries, including comments by Osmond. The American Festival Chorus performed for dinner guests, as did USU piano student Brandon Lee.

Co-chairs for the evening included Paul R. Willie, Dell Loy Hansen, Michele Watterson, Gaylen Rust and Bob Ellis. The group, along with Lauryn Wingate, was instrumental in selling tables for the fundraising dinner. The evening included a number of dignitaries, including Sen. Robert Bennett as the guest of Spencer Stokes. Mac Christensen, Stan Parrish and other officials from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir attended. The dinner was attended by 320. During his remarks, Osmond talked about the importance of the arts and his relationships in the artistic community.

Those attending the dinner then traveled to the USU campus for the concert that opened with Jessop and the American Festival Chorus and Orchestra and Utah-based entertainer Jessie Clark Funk before Osmond took the stage. The concert played to a full house in USU’s Kent Concert Hall

Jessop originated the idea for the fundraising event and Osmond readily agreed to support the effort. Osmond donated his time and talent for the USU concert.

“The evening exceeded my greatest hopes and wishes in every aspect,” Jessop said. “The dinner and the concert were spectacular, and Donny’s generosity came shining through. This was his night off — it was a holiday for him and his family and he agreed to take his free night and give it to us at Utah State University. That is a true friend, and my friendship and respect for Donny have deepened.”

The funds raised during the dinner and benefit concert will be shared by USU’s departments of music and theatre arts. Jessop became department head of music in May 2008 and assumed the department head title in theatre in May 2009. The departments remain separate units under Jessop’s leadership. Proceeds will support departmental programs and student scholarships.