Ringling College’s premier fundraising event of the year
Ringling College of Art and Design’s annual fundraiser Avant-Garde is committed to raising funds for student scholarships. The scholarships bridge the gap between the cost of a college education and the resources of the college student. Education and success go hand in hand. But what if a deserving student misses the opportunity to become a successful entrepreneur, filmmaker, teacher, or artist due to financial constraints?
Scholarships empower students to pursue their dreams, motivate them to aim high, encourage them to pay it forward, and prepare them for a lifetime of achievement. More than 90% of Ringling College students qualify for need and merit-based support, and most could not attend without scholarship assistance.
All of the proceeds from Ringling College’s annual Golf Tournament and Avant-Garde celebrations support student scholarships at Ringling College. Together, we can continue to transform the lives of these aspiring artists and designers.
2027 Event
Innovators and Influencers: Art and Design in Motion
For more than 95 years, our community has been shaped by forward thinkers, fearless creators, and bold visionaries who dared to imagine what was possible. This year, we invite you to step into the spirit of innovation as we honor creativity as a force that transforms lives and expands opportunity.
This year’s theme—Innovators and Influencers—is inspired by the pioneers who have changed the way we see, create, and connect. Whether you arrive as an iconic artist, groundbreaking designer, revolutionary inventor, influential technologist, or another influencer who has left a lasting mark on the world, your unique interpretation of the theme will help bring this extraordinary evening to life.
2026 Event
Dancing through the Decades
The 2026 Avant-Garde was the highest-grossing iteration of the annual gala to date. Guests celebrated Dr. Larry R. Thompson and his wife, Pat, who have been the heartbeat of Ringling College for nearly three decades. The event was co-chaired by Jenne Brittell, Julie Harris, and Michele Hooper.
Avant-Garde
Recent News
Dancing Through the Decades at Avant-Garde 2026
Dancing Through the Decades at Avant-Garde 2026
Students, faculty, and alumni make their mark for student scholarships
Students, faculty, and alumni make their mark for student scholarships
Avant-Garde: a colorful history of philanthropy and fun
Avant-Garde: a colorful history of philanthropy and fun
Faculty designer Matt Myers rocks the 70s with costume hits for Avant-Garde
Faculty designer Matt Myers rocks the 70s with costume hits for Avant-Garde
Dancing Through the Decades at Avant-Garde 2026
Dancing Through the Decades at Avant-Garde 2026
Students, faculty, and alumni make their mark for student scholarships
Students, faculty, and alumni make their mark for student scholarships
Avant-Garde: a colorful history of philanthropy and fun
Avant-Garde: a colorful history of philanthropy and fun
Faculty designer Matt Myers rocks the 70s with costume hits for Avant-Garde
Faculty designer Matt Myers rocks the 70s with costume hits for Avant-Garde
The Art of Giving
Show your support for the creative leaders of tomorrow
Help us make a difference in the lives of talented, emerging creatives by providing quality academic programs, professional-level resources, and state-of-the-art facilities.
The Office for AdvancementGive Now
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