The Bismarck State College Foundation will hold its final annual ball Feb. 26 in the campus armory - where the scholarship fund-raising event began 25 years ago.

The "Back to the Beginning" night will honor past ball committee members and donors, and will include the traditional dinner and big band dancing. Reservations are due by Friday.

"We wanted to thank all the committee members and those who have faithfully attended over the years to make this ball a memorable occasion," said Rhonda Weyer, administrative assistant for college advancement.

The event evolved over the years and a core committee, led by now-retired faculty members Irene Tschider and Gerry Hase, emerged to coordinate the menu around a themed evening complete with decor.

Social hour will begin at 6:30 p.m., with dinner following at 7:30. Celebrants will dance to the music of Big Al's Big Band.

The annual Foundation Ball, initiated by faculty in 1981 to raise money for scholarships, has provided more than $95,000 in endowed funding to BSC students.

The BSC Foundation is discontinuing the event because it has become difficult to attract a large crowd, spokeswoman Jordis Conrad said.

"Younger people just aren't as interested in formal events and big band music," Conrad said. "While it's provided a great evening of entertainment for many, it's difficult to keep that going."

Tickets are $65 and can be purchased with a credit card by calling 224-5700.