Tuesday, April 15, 2025–8:55 p.m.
-News Release-
Baseball Hall of Famer and FOX MLB lead analyst John Smoltz will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2025 President’s Gala.
The event will take place on Thursday, December 4, and will benefit student scholarships at Shorter University.
The announcement was made during Shorter University’s #SUForward Night at the Rome Emperors baseball game on April 15.
Widely respected both on and off the field, Smoltz’s legendary career includes 21 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Atlanta Braves. A first-ballot inductee into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, he is the only pitcher in MLB history to record both 200 wins and 150 saves. As part of the Braves’ dominant rotation in the 1990s and early 2000s, Smoltz helped secure 14 division titles, five National League pennants, and a World Series championship in 1995. He has continued to inspire millions through his work as a broadcaster and his commitment to community service.
The 2025 President’s Gala will include dinner, entertainment, and a special keynote address by Smoltz, making it a night to remember. All proceeds from the Gala will support Shorter University’s mission of Transforming Lives through Christ by providing vital scholarship funds for deserving students.
“We are thrilled to welcome John Smoltz to campus as this year’s President’s Gala speaker,” said Shorter University President Dr. Don Dowless. “His achievements as a professional athlete and his strong commitment to faith, service, and excellence align perfectly with the values we uphold at Shorter. This event will not only be inspiring—it will directly impact the lives of our students through increased scholarship support.”
VIP Experience Available
Guests may also purchase access to an exclusive VIP reception featuring a meet and greet and photo opportunity with John Smoltz. This special add-on experience offers attendees the chance to meet the Hall of Famer in a more intimate setting prior to the main event.
Tickets, VIP access, and sponsorship opportunities will be available online. For more information, please visit www.shorter.edu/gala or contact the Office of Advancement at 706-292-3900 or email giving@shorter.edu.
