POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Invitations were to be mailed today inviting area residents to participate in a special reception with Fox News Channel talk show host and possible 2012 Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee.

The former Arkansas governor is scheduled to speak at Three Rivers College commencement May 22 at the Black River Coliseum. Ceremonies begin at 4 p.m. Admission will be free and open to the public.

Immediately prior to the event, the Three Rivers Endowment Trust will host a fundraising event at Gamma Healthcare, Three Rivers Director of Development Emily Parks told the Board of Trustees during Wednesday's monthly meeting. The trust hopes to raise $50,000 at the invitation-only event, which would go toward Huckabee's speaking fee and other projects at the college, according to organizers.

Platinum sponsors will be able to attend the reception beginning at 2 p.m., while a general reception will open to other invited guests at 2:30 p.m., Parks said.

"A donation to the Three Rivers Endowment Trust is an investment in lives, and our donors see the value of higher education in our area," Parks explained this morning.

Donations are used to support Three Rivers College and its mission of helping students build brighter futures, providing businesses with a well trained workforce, and building partnerships that make Southeast Missouri a great place people to live, work and raise a family, according to Parks.

"I hope this benefit to students alone will draw attendance, but being able to meet former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and host of Fox News Channel's number one voted weekend hit, 'Huckabee,' is an extra benefit for their donation," Parks said.

Sponsors have until April 22 to indicate they wish to participate in this event, Parks said. This deadline will allow the college to include all of the sponsors names on the commencement program. All sponsors also receive: a photo opportunity with Huckabee; recognition on a sponsor board at reception; and preferred seating at commencement.

For more information, call 573-840-9077.

Pertinent address:

2080 Three Rivers Boulevard, Poplar Bluff, MO