20th Annual Mapleton Gala

Gala 2024

Supporting District Priority Programs

Every year, the Foundation provides support to a high-impact, district-wide program. Past initiatives include literacy, science, Strider Bikes, and Ga-Ga Pits.  Through the generosity of this community, the gala will raise funds to support educational experiences and opportunities for all Mapleton students in and beyond the classroom.  

Gala 2024 Keynote Major General (ret.) April D. Vogel

Throughout history, there are individuals whose courage and determination blaze trails for others to follow. One such remarkable person, and 1990 Mapleton High School graduate, has done precisely that in her extensive and awe-inspiring career with the Air National Guard. 

A pioneering figure, Major General (ret.) April D. Vogel’s career milestones include many “firsts.” She was the first Air National Guard Commander of an Active Duty Air Force Wing, a part of the first all-female leadership team in the Maryland National Guard, and made history as the first female two-star general in the Maryland Air National Guard.  

Her illustrious career encompasses over 1,600 flight hours on a variety of airlift aircraft, deployments in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM and Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, and contributions to state and federal missions worldwide. As a mentor, she has guided thousands of Airmen with dedication and appreciation for the leaders who inspired her. 

In her last position on Active Duty, Maj. Gen. Vogel (ret.) was the Director for the Office of Legislative Liaison, National Guard Bureau, Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia. As Director, she was the primary advisor to the Chief of the National Guard Bureau on all matters of Congressional interest and provided guidance and direction in the development of the National Guard Bureau Congressional Legislative Strategy.  

The Mapleton Education Foundation is thrilled to welcome Maj. Gen. Vogel (ret.) back to Mapleton as our Keynote Speaker for the 2024 annual Gala on Friday, Sept. 20. 

Highlights from Gala 2023...

Thank you to all who joined us for the 19th Annual MEF Gala that took place on Friday, October 6th, at the Westin in Westminster to honor our incredible students, educators, and community members who have impacted the lives of many. Funds raised will support the purchase of GaGa Pits for our schools that serve middle school aged students, as well as our other MEF Programs.