Gala Event Celebrated Great-Hearted Teachers

The 5^th Great Hearts Gala was held Saturday, September 24^th at the Chateau Luxe and raised more than $800,000 for teachers across our Arizona schools.

Over 600 guests poured into the reception lobby the for a hosted cocktail hour.  The room was roaring with laughter and excitement as shimmering gowns illuminated the walls with dancing points of light.  Items for the silent auction were thoughtfully displayed for guests to peruse during this time.  It was a magical start to a much-anticipated evening.

The evening progressed as guests were directed to the banquet room complete with ruby slipper inspired centerpieces and the green glow of the Emerald City backdrop on the stage.  The theme of this year’s Gala was A Journey to the Emerald City.  The program featured students, teachers, and alumni from around Great Hearts.  Guests were guided through the Gala’s presentations by Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man.

Guests were entertained by the outstanding performances from the faculty choir and a special recitation from the  2022 Bard Competition winner, Isaac Mendez.  Dinner was served to guests as they enjoyed video presentations highlighting the many accomplishments of the Great Hearts faculty and scholars over the past year.  The excitement really came alive as the Live Auction began, featuring several procured luxury items and amazing experiences

Those who couldn’t attend in person enjoyed the evening’s festivities from home by viewing the Gala’s live stream.  Virtual guests were able to participate in the silent auction that included a wide variety of auction items like a Flagstaff Weekend Getaway, resort stays, sporting event and concert tickets, Headmaster for a Day opportunity, home goods and décor, beautiful artwork, and much more.  A ‘text to give’ option was available to all viewers who wanted to generously support the cause.

The Diamond Raffle is a returning crowd favorite. Only 200 tickets were available for a chance to win a 1.5+ carat, brilliant-cut diamond valued at $14,000, generously donated by Coffin & Trout Fine Jewellers.  Raffle tickets for this sought after item sold out early in the evening and the winner was announced towards the end of the evening.

There was a great deal to celebrate during the Gala, but the central reason for the annual event was to help support the Teacher Excellence Fund that has been set up to reward and retain outstanding teachers throughout the Arizona network of schools.  This fund provides a significant bonus compensation at the headmaster’s discretion based on teaching performance.  At the conclusion of the program, it was announced that the Gala raised $871,133 for our teachers.  The news was met with a few amazed gasps followed by unbridled cheering.

This amazing evening concluded with music and dancing under the stars on the patio as organizers and guest continued to celebrate the great work of the night. The Gala was made possible through the efforts of many staff, volunteers, and generous sponsors.  Great Hearts is grateful for the support of the Gala Presenting Sponsor, Casa Bonitas.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.