St. Rita Caritas Gala’s Comeback is a Huge Success
After two years of virtual events, 2023 saw the return of St. Rita’s largest fundraising event to the Ritz-Carlton Chicago on February 11. The 34th Annual Caritas Gala Valentine Dinner Dance also marked the first year that Nick ‘04 and Ashley LoMaglio chaired the event, taking over after six successful years of leadership from past chair couple Ernie ‘71 and Diane Mrozek.
Over $453,000 were raised during a festive night complete with awards, dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions. One lucky winner even went home with six prime tickets to The Longines Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby races at Churchill Downs!
President Deacon John Donahue said, “The loyal support from our alumni, friends and benefactors is personified in the Caritas Gala. The generosity of our donors allows us to grow our enrollment, upgrade our campus, retain talented faculty and staff, and help working families. We do this all while providing an Augustinian Values-based Catholic education — something that is increasingly important in society today.”
In addition to the $453,000 raised that evening, St. Rita of Cascia High School received a $1,000,000 matching pledge from Bernard Del Giorno (Hon.) This pledge marks a new phase of growth for St. Rita, which Del Giorno announced from the stage inspired by the palpable energy in the room that evening as he was surrounded by those with a shared commitment to the St. Rita tradition. Stay tuned for more information about this exciting donation over the new few months.
Honorees at the 2023 Gala included Todd ‘90 and Sheri Kuska, Couple of the Year; Jim Gagnard ‘64, Tolle Lege Community Service Award; and Marquette Bank, Organization of the Year.
Senior Christopher Wiatrak ‘23 was the student speaker of the event. He was supported by over one dozen of his fellow Ritamen who volunteered to work the event.
The date for the 35th Annual Caritas Gala is set for February 10, 2024 at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago.
If you missed the event you can still donate today!
