On April 25, the Buffalo State Foundation’s annual scholarship gala—Bengala—joined forces with the nationally recognized fashion show—RUNWAY—for a dynamic, student-centered celebration of creativity, community, and opportunity.
Since 1998, Bengala has raised millions of dollars to support first-generation students, high-achieving scholars, and those with financial need, helping them stay enrolled, graduate, and succeed beyond the classroom. Launched in 2008, RUNWAY—produced by students in the university’s Fashion and Textile Technology Department—has become Buffalo’s longest-running fashion event, launching careers and using fashion as a platform for community engagement.
Now united under this year’s theme, “AMPLIFY,” the event highlighted the power of student voices and purpose-driven design.
“AMPLIFY invites our students to use fashion as a vehicle for purpose,” said Erin Habes, RUNWAY director and FTT lecturer. “Student designers are partnering with nonprofits that reflect their values, transforming their collections into stories of advocacy, identity, and impact. AMPLIFY reminds us that when students design with intention and for others, their impact extends far beyond the runway.”
“This event reflects the enduring strength of Buffalo State: bold, collaborative, and deeply rooted in community,” said Jim Finnerty, vice president for institutional advancement and external relations and executive director of the foundation. “Bengala + RUNWAY is an investment in our students as changemakers. Through their designs, they amplify nonprofit missions while gaining meaningful, real-world experience.”
A VIP ticket provided access to the full evening experience, beginning at 4:30 p.m. with Bengala. Guests entered via a Met Gala–inspired stairway and “orange carpet,” featuring student paparazzi and live-style interviews, before moving into a reception with open bar service, globally inspired cuisine stations, student entertainment, priority access to the silent auction, and a New Era Cap photo activation.
The formal program began at 6:00 p.m., emceed by Claudine Ewing, an Emmy Award–winning journalist and Buffalo State alumna, and centered on student impact, access, and opportunity.
Event leadership included co-chairs Danielle Koch, Nancy Cox, and Judy Elliott. Buffalo State President Bonita R. Durand, Ph.D. delivered remarks, followed by a special scholarship appeal led by alumni auctioneer Liam O’Sullivan, ’16.
At 7:00 p.m., VIP guests transitioned to the RUNWAY Lounge overlooking the arena for cocktails, desserts, and reserved viewing of the fashion show, which began at 7:30 p.m.
General admission RUNWAY doors opened at 5:00 p.m., with access to concessions, a Buffalo Love Bus photo experience, a sponsor selfie backdrop, and the Bengal Bodega featuring student-made goods.
Together, Bengala + RUNWAY offered a unified experience that highlights the intersection of arts, education, and community impact.
“Supporting Bengala + RUNWAY 2026: Amplify as presenting sponsor is something that we are very proud of,” said Koch. “The theme reflects our shared commitment to elevating diverse voices, empowering creativity, and giving the students a platform for their talent to be seen, heard and celebrated. It’s an honor to support the next generation as they express who they are and shape their future.”
“We are deeply grateful to our presenting sponsor, New Era Cap Foundation, and our platinum sponsors, Linda A. Dobmeier, ’71, Chartwells, Legacy House, and Merchants Insurance Group, and all other sponsors for supporting this vision and investing in our students,” Habes said. “Their partnership helps us create an experience that connects creativity with community.”
