This year’s annual Gaudeamus benefit gala went virtual on Saturday, October 24th, bringing our beloved celebration to supporters’ living rooms, backyards, and parish halls. With forty watch parties and more than one hundred households joining us virtually from as far as Texas, Florida, and North Carolina, this year’s platform allowed for broader participation than ever before.

The virtual gala began with a blessing by CEF board member Fr. Nick Blaha of Christ the King, Our Lady & St. Rose, and Blessed Sacrament Catholic parishes in Wyandotte county. The evening was co-hosted by CEF board chair Derek Teeter and longtime CEF supporter and emcee Christa Dubill.

The celebration honored Lamar Hunt, Jr. & Rita Hunt with the 2020 Michael & Patty Morrisey Angels Among Us award, and recognized Christ the King Catholic School in Kansas City, KS as CEF’s 2020 Archbishop Naumann School of Excellence winner. Bishop Ward senior and CEF scholarship recipient Pablo Oropeza was the evening’s student speaker, sharing the story of how one teacher inspired him to overcome obstacles and pursue greatness.

The program featured the story of Christ the King 8th graders & CEF scholars Adrienne & Andrea Ruby, and their mother Jodi’s dedication to providing a high-quality, faith-based education for her daughters. The Rubys are two of more than 1,600 students in our Archdiocese relying on CEF scholarships this academic year.

From sponsors, to home party hosts, to the countless volunteers who made this year’s gala possible, the CEF team is so grateful for your support of our mission. Thanks to your generosity, this year's celebration has raised $2 million plus for students scholarships, allowing CEF to help schools meet the staggering need our community is facing.

As a new semester approaches, school waitlists are growing, and your continued prayers and support will make it possible for CEF to bring the promise of Catholic education to low-income families in the uncertain times ahead.