Sharkapalooza, an annual event hosted by Nova Southeastern University’s Student Events and Activities Board as a part of the Weeks of Welcome, normally draws students in as a chance to meet clubs and organizations, grab some food and even win some free items. The giveaways are normally limited to a cup, magnet or even a t-shirt. However, thanks to the generosity of the Rick Case Automotive Group, a one-year lease on a car is undoubtedly the true prize at the event. All students who check in with their SharkCard upon entering the arena are eligible to enter the raffle, and one lucky winner is announced towards the end of the evening.
Maria Valladares, a junior legal studies major, was the lucky winner of the car raffle at Sharkapalooza on Friday, Aug. 24. “When I got called it was kind of like, ‘okay, so there’s a lot of Marias but only one Maria Valladares, and that’s me,’” Valladares recounted. “It’s one of those moments you see in movies, where it’s actually you and it’s hard to believe it.”
Valladares said the car has been incredibly useful, especially as she is a student living in Rolling Hills. “It’s been a blessing— that’s a good way to describe it. [I want to give] a huge thank you to Stan Bostic and to Rick Case because just the fact that they give away a car, even if it’s for a year, is a big deal and they’re so amazing for doing it. They’re such great people, and I did not expect it— I never win anything!”
