The Power of Generosity: The 43rd Annual Auction Helps Build Tomorrow at Saint Bede

For one evening each year, the Saint Bede community gathers not only to raise funds, but to celebrate a shared commitment to the Academy's future. 

On June 6, that commitment was on full display as alumni, parents, friends, sponsors, faculty, staff and supporters filled the Perino Science Center for the 43rd Annual Saint Bede Auction, The Lane to Tomorrow.

The result was one of the most successful auctions in the event's 43-year history.

The evening launched strong support for the 2026 Fund-A-Need project, Kitchen Modernization: A Commitment to Student Health and Well-Being. In the days following the auction, additional gifts brought the Fund-A-Need total to $216,770. Combined with $175,826 raised through the live and silent auctions, the event generated $392,596 to support Saint Bede’s mission. 

While the fundraising totals were impressive, the evening was about more than numbers.

Guests arrived to a warm welcome and a festive atmosphere that reflected the spirit of the Saint Bede family. New additions, including a spritz bar, interactive games and expanded bidding opportunities, added energy throughout the night. Conversations flowed easily as friends reconnected, new relationships were formed and supporters gathered around a common purpose.

"The success of this year's auction shows how much people care about Saint Bede," said Bonnie Prokup, auction manager. "The support we received will help our students for years to come and help Saint Bede remain a safe and welcoming place to learn."

Throughout the evening, bidding remained lively as guests competed for some of the event's most sought-after experiences. Among the standout offerings was the exclusive Rich Harvest Farms golf experience, which generated interest from golf enthusiasts. The auction's featured travel opportunities also proved popular, including La Dolce Vita: An Italian wine and culinary adventure to Tuscany, which sold 16 times, and the Sonoma wine country experience, which sold four times.

Closer to home, one of the night's most beloved packages reflected the unique character of the Saint Bede community itself. Fr. Dominic Garramone's pizza party drew enthusiastic support, selling twice and reminding guests that some of the most treasured experiences are rooted in the people who make Saint Bede special.

The auction's success was made possible by the individuals working behind the scenes. Volunteers donated countless hours, sponsors provided generous support, donors contributed exceptional auction packages and guests participated enthusiastically throughout the evening.

This year's event was a powerful reminder that while buildings, programs and projects may evolve, the spirit of generosity that sustains Saint Bede remains as strong as ever.

Kitchen Modernization Update

The 2026 Fund-A-Need campaign provided a tremendous boost toward our $994,000 kitchen modernization goal, generating renewed energy and momentum for this critical project.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, we are now just $225,000 away from fully funding the initiative. This progress has already led to detailed planning meetings with contractors as we refine project timelines and prepare to order key materials and equipment.

Based on ongoing discussions with our contractor partners, we are confident that work will begin in Spring 2027 and be completed by the August 2027 deadline, ensuring students and staff return for the 2027-28 school year with a fully modernized kitchen facility. The momentum created by the 2026 Fund-A-Need effort has positioned us well for a successful finish, and we are excited about the road ahead.