The evening raised nearly $8 million and announced a $7.5 million pledge from the Engelstad Family Foundation to kick off the Engelstad Family Sponsor Our Students Campaign. Entertainers included Lionel Richie, Tim McGraw, Dane Cook, Daughtry, Brian McKnight, Macy Gray, and many others with the musical direction of David Foster.
With the assistance of the Nevada federal delegation, AAFE begins a renewable energy initiative with the installation of a new, solar energy system at Agassi Prep. Kids are inspired, spirits are up and energy bills are down.
AAFE’s state policy initiatives result in the passage of 3 bills: SB 391 allows Agassi Prep to further its mission of serving underserved youth; AB 393 allows employees to enroll their children at Agassi Prep and a seamless transition for children enrolled in an affiliated Pre-K program; and AB 488 gives it additional flexibility to hire “critical need” positions.
With an ever greater focus on education, the Andre Agassi Charitable Foundation changes its name to the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education and launches a new mission, logo and website.
The Opening Night Ceremony for the 2009 US Open celebrates athletes who give back, featuring Andre Agassi as well as Doug Flutie, Mia Hamm and David Robinson. The evening highlights the AAFE’s efforts in education, including Agassi Prep. The ceremony is broadcast live on ESPN2.
Agassi Prep’s elementary, middle and high schools all receive ”High Achieving” designations from the State of Nevada Dept. of Education. “High Achieving” means a school has exceeded expectations for performance and/or significantly reduced the percentage of non-proficient students.
Agassi Prep graduates its first class on June 12, 2009 with a 100% college acceptance rate. The festivities conclude with a ceremony symbolic of the graduates entering the future. The seniors cross a bridge specifically designed for this event and are pronounced the Class of 2009.
The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars recognizes Andre Agassi and Stefanie Graf for their commitment to public discourse, scholarship and promoting education in the United States and around the world.
25 Agassi Prep seniors travel to France for a 10-day senior trip, sponsored by a Foundation donor. The itinerary includes sightseeing and historical tours, museum visits and more.
The Assistance League of Las Vegas recognizes the AAFE for its contributions to “Operation School Bell” over a decade and a half. Operation School Bell provides new clothes and shoes to children in need.
