2021 Matters of the Mind Event Raises More than $350k for Gateway

Event speakers

Gateway’s annual Matters of the Mind event couldn’t be held on campus this year, but that didn’t stop us from having an incredible event and it certainly didn’t stop our community from stepping up in a big way for teachers and students, as our biggest fundraiser of the year exceeded its ambitious goal of raising $350,000 for Gateway!

More than 200 people tuned in to watch the event featuring Heather McGhee, renowned economist, think tank leader, and author of the bestselling book “The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together.” Drawing from the research and key points of her book, Heather spoke with event moderator Ariana Proehl of KQED’s “Forum” about the real social and economic costs of racism for all people, and how communities can reject “zero-sum thinking” to improve life for everyone. 

The event also featured videos from Gateway staff, students and alumni reflecting on the power of the Gateway experience and how it has opened doors of opportunity for generations of students. Even the school mascots made an appearance!

We are deeply grateful to our entire community for their support of this event and galvanized by Heather’s words about how we can build a more just and equitable world together. And don’t miss this post-event Q&A between Gateway Executive Director Sharon Olken and Heather!