KEY WEST, FL, February 14, 2012 — The Key West Gator Club® (KWGC) presented a $100,000 donation and took home two "Clubby" awards at the University of Florida's Gator Gala held February 4 in Gainesville. The UF Alumni Association (UFAA) rolled out the orange carpet in Emerson Alumni Hall for the black-tie affair that recognized the best Gator clubs and alumni groups throughout the nation.

UFAA South Florida Regional Vice-President and Past President of the KWGC Javier Garrido presented the bronze Albert the Alligator trophies—one for "Outstanding Small Club" and one for "Best Event"—to KWGC Board members Max Labrada and Amber Ernst-Leonard. This is the sixth time the southernmost club has earned the prestigious top title of "Outstanding Club." In turn, and for the surprise grand gesture of the evening, the club representatives presented a check for $100,000 back to the university.

The donation, which was raised through events such as the annual Dolphin Derby fishing tournament as well as private contributions over the past six years, boosts the club's total endowment to $300,000, pending state matching funds. The endowment, which is the largest of any Gator Club, has generated enough interest to award more than $100,000 in academic scholarships to UF-bound Key West High School graduates since 1991.

"Key West has always shone brightly in the Gator Nation," said KWGC President Greg Oropeza, a 2001 recipient of a KWGC scholarship. "It's a pleasure to contribute back to UF by continually supporting and rewarding outstanding local students."

Katie Marquis, UFAA Director of Membership and Marketing commended the KWGC by saying: "Key West Gators are amazing; they are the club to emulate!"

More than 30 awards were presented at the Gator Gala, including the "Gator of the Year" distinction for the UF Athletic Association Director of 20 years Jeremy Foley. Collectively, UFAA affiliate groups and Gator clubs have risen over $2.8 million for academic student scholarship endowments