Joint Fundraiser Raises $4,800 for Brian Williams Fund

Above: Kathy Kinton (far right) and daughters Sara (far left) and Meredith (second from left) receive a check from MBAA District Milwaukee (click on photo for larger image)
Below: Kathy Kinton (far right) and daughter Meredith (far left) receive a check from ASBC Milwaukee/Chicago Section (click on photo for larger image)

A fundraiser with proceeds benefiting the Brian Williams Fund, a scholarship given by the American Society of Brewing Chemists (ASBC) Foundation, raised an unexpected $4,800 in a single evening. The incredible success of the fundraiser, held during the November 17, 2005 joint meeting of the ASBC Milwaukee/Chicago Section and Master Brewers Association of the Americas (MBAA) District Milwaukee, has increased the fund to just $1,200 short of its $20,000 endowment goal.

Held at the Miller Inn at the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee, Wis., the fundraiser was attended by Brian’s wife, Kathy Kinton, and two daughters, Sara and Meredith; along with many long-time friends and members of ASBC and MBAA. Donations were made both by individuals and businesses, with the MBAA District Milwaukee donating $1,000, Breiss Malt and Ingredients Company donating $300, and ASBC Milwaukee/Chicago Section donating $250.

Kathy Kinton receives a check from Briess Malting's Brad Rush (click on photo for larger image)

“Tonight is a night to celebrate – we are close to making our $20,000 goal for the scholarship,” said Kinton, “I appreciate all those who worked to make this night successful.”

Kinton explained, “When the ASBC Foundation approached me about naming a scholarship for Brian, I was overwhelmed. He would have been extremely honored to be remembered by his colleagues in this manner. Those of you who knew him personally knew that Brian had a passion for education and for working with young people. To be remembered with a scholarship to help young people achieve higher education in the industry he truly enjoyed was the highest tribute he could receive.”

Mike Stridde was host for the evening (click on photo for larger image)

Once endowed, this fund will allow the foundation to present at least one $1,000 scholarship every year to a deserving graduate student in Brian’s name.

Support the Brian Williams Scholarship Fund by sending your donations, along with the Brian Williams Fund donation form, to Beth Elliott at ASBC, 3340 Pilot Knob Road, St. Paul, MN 55121.