On Saturday, April 25, DeSales University will honor Lehigh Valley residents Dennis and Karen Campbell with the Take Hold Award <\/em>at the University\u2019s annual A Night for DeSales gala at 5:30 p.m. in the DeSales University Center in Center Valley.<\/p>\n A Night for DeSales is held annually and is one of the University\u2019s largest fundraising events. All proceeds benefit The DeSales Fund, which supports academic activities, scholarships, and financial aid. The Take Hold Award <\/em>celebrates exemplary individuals whose lives and work reflect the values and mission of DeSales University. Last year\u2019s inaugural award was presented to Lee and Dolly Butz.<\/p>\n Dennis Campbell, a 1971 graduate of then-Allentown College of St. Francis de Sales, has maintained a nearly 60-year relationship with the University. Over a distinguished career in finance and marketing spanning more than 45 years where he held leadership roles with Philadelphia Savings Fund Society, the Federal National Mortgage Association, DeSales University, and Nationwide Mutual Insurance. He also served on the University\u2019s Board of Trustees under Fr. J. Stuart Dooling, OSFS and later as chief development officer under Fr. Daniel Gambet, OSFS.<\/p>\n Karen Campbell began her professional career at Fidelity Bank before dedicating her time to raising the couple\u2019s four children. A devoted volunteer, she has supported parish adult and youth retreats, the St. Vincent DePaul Society, Cay Galgon Life House, and numerous school and community initiatives. She also served with Women for DeSales, strengthening her family\u2019s enduring ties to the University.<\/p>\n Together, the Campbells have invested significant time and energy in service to both Church and community. Dennis has coached youth sports for many years and served in leadership roles with the Allentown Catholic Beneficial Association (ACBA), the Knights of Columbus Trinity Council, and the Father Judge High School Advisory Board, among other organizations.<\/p>\n The Campbell family\u2019s connection to DeSales spans generations. All four of their children attended the University, three of whom married fellow DeSales graduates, and one of their grandsons is currently enrolled. In gratitude for the impact DeSales has had on their lives,<\/p>\n Dennis and Karen established an endowed scholarship to help future students access a DeSales education.<\/p>\n Dennis and Karen met in high school and married shortly after college. They will celebrate 55 years of marriage in June and are proud grandparents to their 11 grandchildren. Their investment in community service and life-long dedication to their Catholic faith and family embodies the values celebrated by the Take Hold Award<\/em>.<\/p>\n This year\u2019s event marks the 45th A Night for DeSales (formerly Dinner Dance) and will be a black-tie optional evening which includes a cocktail hour, dinner, entertainment, and a festive after-dinner atmosphere. The gala gathers alumni, family, friends, and donors of DeSales University. For more information on tickets, sponsorships, or how to contribute a congratulatory message in the evening\u2019s program for the Campbells, visit desales.edu\/anightfordesales<\/a>.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Information provided to TVL on behalf of Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber member DeSales University<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" On Saturday, April 25, DeSales University will honor Lehigh Valley residents Dennis and Karen Campbell with the Take Hold Award at the University\u2019s annual A Night for DeSales gala at … Continue reading DeSales University to Honor Dennis \u201971 and Karen Campbell at A Night for DeSales<\/span>