The Rooted in Education Gala brought together more than 1,800 supporters and alumni of Marian University to celebrate the university’s commitment to fostering top-notch educators in Indianapolis through the new Educator’s College. Led by Kenith Britt, Ph.D., dean of the new college, the inaugural class will begin their studies in a residency-style program that has been mentioned alongside of Harvard University and New York University in the fall of 2017.
This year, the gala honored David Harris with the Franciscan Values Award, Dr. Lewis Ferebee with the John A. Purdie Innovator and Mentor of the Year Award, and Doris Garland Downing ’73 with the Mother Clarissa Dillhoff Award for Distinguished Achievement in Mentoring. Videos celebrating the honorees were sponsored by RJE Business Interiors.
President Daniel J. Elsener was honored by the Board of Trustees for his 15 years of service to Marian University. The president spoke about the need for quality educators in the state of Indiana, and how Marian University is able to help fill that need with its growing enrollment and commitment to educating transformational leaders. In total, the university raised $1.8 million for scholarships.
Attendees had the opportunity to enjoy entertainment from Gregg Bacon and Blue Stone Circle, thanks to entertainment sponsor Community Health Network. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, St. Vincent; reception sponsor, Hancock Regional Health; dessert sponsor, Litz Real Estate; and solutions table sponsor, Ice Miller LLP.
The event, held at the JW Marriot Indianapolis, was emceed by Anne Marie Tiernon, Emmy-Award Winning Eyewitness News Anchor for WTHR-13 Indianapolis. The night featured performances by Marian University’s own Knight Fusion Singers, and the Benediction Prayer sung by the Sisters of St. Francis, Oldenburg, Indiana and the Marian University Sacred Choir.
Save the date for next year’s gala: November, 10, 2017 at the JW Marriot Indianapolis.
