Bruin Benefit Raises Record-Breaking $231,000

April 25th, 2017 | News, News 2017

The 25th annual Bruin Benefit dinner and auction raised a record-breaking $231,000 on April 22, 2017.

The evening featured a special level of excitement this year when it was announced that the PaduaPlus+ Campaign has reached the $4 million mark. President Fr. Allan DaCorte, ofm shared his vision for Padua and how the PaduaPlus+ Campaign is transforming the school, positively impacting the educational experience for current and future Bruins. Marty Zanotti ’70, campaign co-chair, inspired the crowd with his comments about what it meant to him to play a leadership role in the most successful campaign in the school’s history.

The announcement of the $500,000 gift from the Fredecker Family Foundation was the highlight of the campaign program, with 330 guests raising their champagne flutes in a celebratory toast.

Both the silent and live auction included several new, interesting offerings, including a NASCAR experience in Miami, FL, the ever popular Cavs game package, a framed Fritsche Blue Jackets jersey, and an Island Getaway in Marblehead. The raffle item was a limited edition Swarovski crystal bear donated by Joe and Theresa Parente.

Guests capped off the evening at the coffee bar with fancy liqueurs, homemade Italian cookies, and fine chocolates, all donated by Padua’s faculty and staff. Special thanks to the 2017 benefit committee, the Koler family who served as honorary chairpersons, and the countless student and parent volunteers who made the evening a success.