Goodwin University has announced details for its upcoming 11th Annual Summer Clambake and Auction, one of the school’s signature events for raising scholarship funds for students with demonstrated financial need. On Friday, June 20, at 6:30 p.m., under a party tent on the banks of the scenic Connecticut River, guests will gather to enjoy a lobster feast including classic New England chowder and a raw bar provided by Flanders Fish Market and Restaurant of East Lyme. Meat and veggie options will be available as well.
All proceeds from the Clambake support Goodwin’s student scholarship fund.
Join us for a can’t-miss Clambake experience!
The University is proud to announce that popular WFSB on-air personality and host of Hello Connecticut, Renée DiNino, is the event’s Honorary Chair. Music and entertainment will be provided by DJ Adam of iHeart Media.
A silent auction will round out the evening, during which guests can win splendid prizes and one-of-a-kind opportunities. Those who cannot attend in person can still enjoy participating via an online auction.
Exciting new editions
This year’s Clambake brings exciting new features for guests to enjoy! Indulge your sweet tooth at the brand-new Custom Dessert Bar, showcasing award-winning cinnamon rolls from The Flour Girl of Hebron, seasonal Poundcups from Perfect Poundcakes of East Hartford, and rich, buttery blondies from Brown Butter Creations of Glastonbury — all perfectly paired with a variety of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavors for a decadent treat.
Also new this year, guests can look forward to a heartwarming visit from Amazing K9 Duos — local certified therapy dogs and their human partners — who will mingle with attendees during the cocktail hour, creating a unique and memorable experience.
Why your support matters
Beyond the food, fun, and festivities, the heart of the Clambake lies in its mission: helping students achieve their dreams through access to education. Each ticket purchased and every auction bid placed directly supports scholarships for hardworking students who might not otherwise be able to afford college.
“More than 85% of our students depend on financial aid to graduate, with 62% being the first generation in their families to attend college,” said Dr. Ethan Foxman, board president of the Goodwin Foundation, which oversees fundraising for the University. “Among the many students who benefit from our efforts, we are proud to include veterans, active military, as well as their spouses and dependents. Goodwin has long been recognized as an official Military Friendly School, and this year we are happy to announce our new status as a member of the Age-Friendly University Global Network.”
“Events like the Clambake and Auction really bring career aspirations within reach of our students,” he added.
Discover how donating to the Foundation helps current students like Genesis transform into future leaders!
Save the date!
Goodwin University 11th Annual Summer Clambake & Auction
Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: One Riverside Drive (211 for GPS), East Hartford, CT 06118
Tickets: $150 per person available at www.goodwin.edu/foundation/events
For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and other information, contact Heidi Carlson at hcarlson@goodwin.edu or 860-727-6747.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.