HARIBO of America has announced a $250,000 donation to the Gateway Technical College Foundation to help fund the new Promise 2 Finish program at the college.

The donation announcement was made in conjunction with the college’s announcement of the new program aimed at helping students who left college to return and earn a degree, by filling the gap between financial aid and tuition costs.

“At HARIBO, we believe everyone should have access to affordable, quality education and have the resources to make that happen – and that’s exactly what this program will do,” said Toni Hansen, HARIBO of America director of human resources.

In honor of this contribution, Gateway has officially changed the name of the auditorium in the conference center on its Kenosha Campus from the Madrigrano Auditorium to HARIBO Hall and formally named the conference center the Madrigrano Center. The space is home to many college and community group event, drawing thousands to the building each year.

“We are deeply grateful that HARIBO America has chosen to support the Promise 2 Finish program to help those who want to return to college and earn the life-changing benefits of a Gateway degree,” said Jennifer Charpentier, Gateway Technical College Foundation executive director. “Their gift will provide the resources and inspiration for generations of students to reach their educational dreams.”

“HARIBO continues to demonstrate a sincere interest in strengthening our community through investing in education,” said Gateway Technical College President and CEO Bryan Albrecht. “HARIBO’s investment in the Gateway adult Promise program will transform lives for generations and we are grateful for their support.”

Hansen pointed out that HARIBO, while new to Wisconsin, marks its 100-year anniversary this year.

“It’s an exciting time, and we are looking forward to the future we will build together,” said Hansen. “We’re committed to supporting Gateway Technical College as we continue to build our talent pipeline of the future. We are thrilled to be part of the announcement today … and proud to embark on our partnership with Gateway.”

About Gateway Technical College: Gateway Technical College’s mission is to deliver industry-focused education that is flexible, accessible and affordable for our diverse community. The college collaborates with communities in Kenosha, Racine and Walworth counties to ensure economic growth and viability by providing education, training, leadership and technological resources to meet the changing needs of students, employers and communities.

About HARIBO: HARIBO is the world's leading manufacturer of gummi products, most famous for our beloved Goldbears. Globally, the business employs nearly 7,000 Associates and operates 16 production sites in 10 countries. A family-owned business with a century long heritage, our founder, Hans Riegel, built HARIBO on a foundation of quality and delivering moments of childlike happiness through our products. Established in 1920, HARIBO is the acronym that comprises our founder's name and the city in which the company was born (Bonn, Germany): HAns RIegel BOnn. We pride ourselves on making playful gummies that are meant be shared so our inner-child can always experience joy through sweet treats. HARIBO global headquarters is in Grafschaft, Germany and its U.S. headquarters operates out of Rosemont, Ill. For more information, visit www.haribo.com.