2009 Banquet - Keynote Speaker John Ashcroft

Banquet Overview

Some events are just special and the 2009 SSI Annual Fundraising Banquet was one of those moments. Nearly 400 people, including nearly 40 SSI alumni, were on hand to support the mission of SSI as they heard from Bill Schuette, Spencer Abraham, Kendall Wingrove and Ambassador League members. Capping off an inspiring evening, the remarks on liberty and leadership by our keynote speaker, former United States Attorney General John Ashcroft, made this an evening that will not soon be forgotten by those in attendance.

Here’s an excerpt from my note of appreciation to Mr. Ashcroft:

“I want to thank you for coming to speak for the SSI Banquet. I cannot begin to tell you how much of a blessing you were to me and to everyone who attended. I, along with many others, noticed how freely and generously you gave of yourself to the guests and made each one of them feel special. Your remarks were powerful, timely, humorous and inspiring. By weaving in supportive comments about the SSI mission and the work that we are doing, you did much more than just give a perfunctory speech—you helped make the event financially successful as well. In light of the fact that you agreed to come only after persistent requests by Spencer and Jane Abraham, it is obvious that you went the extra mile, and for that I am deeply honored and grateful!”

If you are interested, a DVD of Mr. Ashcroft’s remarks are available for a contribution of $15. Contact sherrel@ssi-online.org, or call 517-321-6233.

The evening was emceed by WLQV Radio Host Paul Edwards and we were all blessed by the wonderful music provided by the Heritage String Quartet featuring three SSI alumni from this past summer. It was my privilege to present the Mission and Vision of SSI by focusing on the exciting fruit that God is giving us through this ministry! It is extremely rewarding to report that SSI is not just HOPING to be a powerful influence to a new generation of young Christian leaders - we’re seeing it happen right before our eyes! The following is a short video shown at the banquet featuring some of our bright and eager alumni who are now giving of their time to help make SSI a continued success:

SSI Alumni Give Back

Also, one of the highlights of the evening was the Ambassador League Awards presented to eight outstanding high school students who spent the last year completing our rigorous leadership development course. You can watch this year’s acceptance speeches given by Brooke Rowland and David Hoogmoed below. I encourage you to take a look and be inspired!

2009 John Quincy Adams Award Acceptance Speeches

I want to say thank you to everyone who contributed time, talent and hard earned resources to make this an incredibly successful event. If you were unable to attend I encourage you to view the photo album below.

If you, like many who attended are moved by what you see and hear, I urge you to read the text of my appeal for funds HERE, and prayerfully consider joining our growing team of financial supporters.

Photo Gallery

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The Evening's Program

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