About the 2026 Gala

The NCEA Gala features the Elizabeth Ann Seton Awards, named for Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, in recognition of her lifelong dedication to teaching. The awards bring together leaders, educators, supporters, and friends who believe in the transformative power of Catholic education.

Join us for an inspiring evening honoring the impact of Catholic education and renewing the promise that has guided NCEA for nearly 125 years: strengthening Catholic education through expanded access, supporting leaders, and helping Catholic school communities flourish nationwide.

This year’s Gala is more than a celebration. It is a renewal of the enduring promise NCEA makes to Catholic education. Together, we will ensure the legacy and future of Catholic education for generations to come.

NCEA Seton Lifetime of Service

Timothy Cardinal Dolan

His Eminence Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan Archbishop Emeritus of New York

NCEA Elizabeth Ann Seton Awards

Archbishop Angelo Vincenzo Zani

His Excellency The Most Reverend Angelo Vincenzo Zani Former Secretary of the Congregation for Catholic Education and Archivist Emeritus of the Vatican Apostolic Archive, Titular Archbishop of Volturnum

Mrs. Cecilia Abbott

Cecilia Abbott First Lady of Texas

Mr. Anthony J. de Nicola

Anthony J. de Nicola Chairman of the Board, Invest in Education Foundation

Program Emcee

Paula Gwynn Grant

Paula Gwynn Grant Senior National Director of Marketing and Communications, St. Vincent de Paul USA

Event Program

6 PM Welcome Reception

Guests arrive and gather for cocktails and fellowship.

7 PM Dinner and Program Begins

An elegant dinner is served as we begin the evening’s program.

9–10:30 PM Live Music and Dancing

We conclude the evening with gratitude and a shared commitment to the future.

Your participation makes this work possible. Whether attending, sponsoring, or contributing, you are helping ensure that Catholic education continues to thrive for generations to come.

Together, we are forming leaders, expanding opportunity, and building a stronger future one student at a time.

Gala Tickets

Be part of something extraordinary. Join national leaders, partners, and friends of Catholic education for an evening of distinction and purpose.

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Sponsorships

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NCEA Mission

In service of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, NCEA strengthens Catholic school communities by convening all stakeholders and providing professional development, data, public policy, and resources to support faith and intellectual formation.