We are delighted to announce that Pat and Mel McAnany will be serving as the chairs for this year’s Gaudeamus benefit gala on Saturday, October 12th. This dynamic duo brings a wealth of experience, dedication and enthusiasm to our signature fundraising event, and we couldn’t be more excited to have them lead the charge.

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About Pat and Mel McAnany

Pat and Mel McAnany are long-time supporters of the Catholic Education Foundation and are deeply committed to the mission. Pat served on the CEF Board of Directors for many years and in 2015, the couple was honored with the Michael and Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us Award for their leadership in CEF’s early years.

The McAnany family are longtime members of St. Joseph Catholic Church community in Shawnee. Pat and Mel’s grandchildren are the sixth generation to attend St. Joseph Catholic School.

“We have witnessed personally the closeness of the Catholic community here in the Kansas City area. It's very special and unique indeed!”
- Pat McAnany, 2024 Gaudeamus Chair

With a shared passion for community service and philanthropy, Pat and Mel have made significant contributions to various Catholic organizations and causes over the years. They are active volunteers with Saint Paul's Outreach, are mentors in the Spiritual Mentorship Program, serve as grand knight and dame of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, and lay members of the Community of the Lamb.

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A Perfect Fit for Gaudeamus

This year’s Gaudeamus will be a night to remember as we gather to honor the Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann for his legacy of support for Catholic education.

Over the years, Pat and Mel have developed a strong relationship with Archbishop Naumann through their various philanthropic efforts, working closely together to support numerous initiatives within the Catholic community. Their shared commitment to service and faith has even taken them abroad on several occasions, further deepening their bond.