To celebrate 10 years and welcome a new executive director, the Renton Schools Foundation is hosting a black tie birthday gala Saturday, Sept. 21.

Since 2009, the foundation has raised more than $2.5 million towards the Renton School District, through local business partners and resident donations. While the foundation has worked under the umbrella of the Renton Regional Community Foundation, it is soon branching out as its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit, with a paid executive director.

Linda Foley, appointed to the new position, is a well-known nonprofit leader, assisting with organizations both on the east coast and in the pacific northwest, according to a Renton School District press release.

“Together, with Board Members Pam Teal, Kyle Grubbs, Geri Carlson, Erin Maxwell, Dr. Avanti Bergquist. Craig Cooper, Randy Matheson, Christina Park, Samir Patel, Shivani Kailesh Patel, Dr. Damien Pattenaude, Greg Piantanida, Pamela Scott, Kaitlyn Spore, Buddy Waddington and Shelby Scovel, Linda will continue to build upon the Foundation’s strong legacy to ensure continued program expansion,” the release states.

The foundation has focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), arts, literacy and teachers’ grants in recent years. It has also funded two summer enrichment programs for the last six years.

Renton Schools Foundation gave $42,000 directly to teachers who identified critically needed, but unfunded, student projects, according to the release.

Tuesday, Sept. 17 is the last day to get a ticket for the event, costing $100 per person.

The birthday gala is 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday at the Hyatt Regency on Lake Washington. Attendees can meet board members, participate in games and a silent auction, eat a four course dinner and watch performances from Renton students.

Obtain tickets or learn more about Renton Schools Foundation here.