Evening Program

The Gala program is thoughtfully designed to reflect the mission of Catholic education, forming young people in faith, knowledge, and service with Christ at the center. Throughout the evening, we celebrate the transformative impact of Catholic schools and the communities that sustain them, while affirming the essential role of parents as the primary educators of their children and the importance of parental choice in shaping their educational journey. We also highlight the vital work of developing current and future leaders who will carry forward the mission of Catholic education with purpose, integrity, and faith.

This program is guided by the NCEA Gala Committee, whose leadership and collaboration help shape the vision and experience of the evening:

  • Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman — NCEA Staff; President/CEO
  • Deacon Scott Conway — Superintendent of Schools, Diocese of St. Augustine
  • Mary Pat Donoghue — Executive Director, Secretariat of Catholic Education, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
  • Jane Davis — NCEA Staff; Gala Chair; Director of Strategic Initiatives, Office of the President
  • Henry Fortier — NCEA Board Member; Equitable Education Services
  • Barbara Keebler — Gala Committee Member; Former Gala Chair
  • Kristin Moore — Director of Marketing & Enrollment, Archdiocese of Seattle Catholic Schools
  • Inés Pezo — Director of Marketing for Religion, William H. Sadlier, Inc.
  • Karen Rauenhorst — Gala Committee Member; Former NCEA Board Member; Vice Chair, Catholic Relief Services Foundation; Philanthropist
  • Jessica Roberts — NCEA Staff; Senior Director of Business Development and Philanthropy
  • Beatriz Ruiz — NCEA Staff; Graphic Design and Production Manager

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.

Special Performances

In honor of our nation’s 250th anniversary, the evening will include a ceremonial presentation of the colors by students from St. John’s College High School (Archdiocese of Washington), recognizing the enduring values of faith, freedom, and service that continue to shape our country and Catholic education.

The program will also feature special performances by students from local Catholic schools, offering a distinguished witness to the talent, formation, and promise found within our school communities.  Additional elements will include the presentation of honors and moments of reflection, recognizing leaders whose service has strengthened Catholic education for generations.