I would say maybe a propane smoker and get a couple thermometers that can do a data log for you. Then do tests on the effects of diffrent cooking styles and temps. Example of this would be doing a butt at 225 till it reaches the desired doneness, but donone where you wrap it and the other unwrapped. See what the diffeence is. You can save the meat and use it for your big service for the seniors. You can do the same test but at different cook temps. This way you can find the most efficient cook temp and time for the butts.
Then you will have most of the education money left and maybe use it towards the first year of college.
Then you will have most of the education money left and maybe use it towards the first year of college.