2024 Incarnate Word Academy Gala & Auction
The Theroux Family Event Chairs
Brandi and Bobby Dixon
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE honoring WITH ON Dinner by
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Six-Thirty in the Evening
The Revaire
7122 Old Katy Road
Houston, Texas
Chef Ryan Bouillet
A Fare Extraordinaire
A Gift of Honor
Congregation of The Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament of Houston
A Gift of Benevolence
Brandi and Bobby Dixon
The Theroux Family
A Gift of Affection
Congregation of The Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of Houston
Harvey Builders
Raye G. White
A Gift of Sentiment
Lori Gallagher and Curtis Huff
A Gift of Heart
David and Judith Beck Foundation
Hill/Volf Families
Erin and Toby McMillian
Steve Schwarzbach
A Gift of Compassion
Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Carol Barndollar
Laurel and Jeb Bashaw
Dr. Christie Billings in honour of Liliana '19 and Julliette '21 Billings
Dr. William F. Braden
Burrell, Marciano, Montemayor and Mullen Families
Toni Blankmann and Robert Weiner/Tedd and Genevieve Winter
BDO/Anthony Gamez
Mary Ann Beachler
IMG Financial Group
Larry Kaiser Sr. Family
Lynette Kowis '88
Ginny and Dennis Malloy
Elizabeth A. Muegge '63
Stellar Bank
St. Thomas High School
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church/St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School
Tracy and Mark Temple
Christi and Dean Quinn
University of St. Thomas
Valet Underwriter
Scanlan Foundation
Bar Underwriters
Nora and Richard Brooks
Patti and Mark Day
Kay and Andrew B. Hawthorn
Jeanice '79 and Mike Netzel
Richard Scalzitti in honor of Eleanor Napolitano Scalzitti Candice and Ed Tyrrell
Décor Underwriters
Andrea and Wade Quinn
Elizabeth and Edward York
Ana and Mike Shaver
Wine & Spirits Pull Underwriter
Carol and Joseph Birkofer
Volunteer & Hospitality Underwriter
Cheryl and Nicholas Dzurec
Special thanks to all the table sponsors and underwriters whose gifts came in
Gala Chairs
Brandi and Bobby Dixon
Underwriting Committee
Carol Barndollar
Laurel and Jeb Bashaw
Christie Billings
Carol and Joseph Birkofer
Jennifer and Jeff Hill
K. Hammond Johnson
Lanette Kowis ’88
Jeanice ’79 and Mike Netzel
Christi and Dean Quinn
Andrea and Wade Quinn
Steve Schwarzbach
Tracy and Mark Temple
Host Committee
Judy and David Beck
Most Reverend Brendan J. Cahill
Sr. Maria Eleanor Caisido, C.V.I.
Al and Dona Clay
Ashtyn P. Duncan ’13
Melynda and Richard Ludwick
Ginny and Dennis Malloy
Rev. James Murphy, CSB
Sr. Carmel O’Malley, C.V.I.
Kathryn Z. Straw
Sr. Celeste Trahan, CCVI
Mary and Keith Volf
Auction Chairs
Emily Hall Bergeron ’12
Olivia Bergeron Giese ’15
Jacque Bergeron Hoard ’17
Wine & Spirits Pull Chairs
Mary and Chris Marten
Incarnate Word Academy
Sr. Lauren Beck, C.V.I.
Sr. Maria Eleanor Caisido, C.V.I.
Fr. John Huber, CSB
Sr. Kevina Keating, CCVI
Sr. Carmel O’Malley, C.V.I.
Pretty in Pink: San Miguel Sanctuary FOR TWO | VALUE: PRICELESS
San Miguel de Allende, a colonial-era city in Mexico’s central highlands, is known for its baroque Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene and cultural festivals. In the city’s historic cobblestoned center lies the neo-Gothic church Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, whose dramatic pink towers rise above the main plaza, El Jardín.
The prominent church’s neo-Gothic design is the vision of the self-taught stonemason and architect Zeferino Gutiérrez, who is rumored to have used European lithographs of Belgian and German churches for artistic inspiration. Enjoy a 2-hour private walking tour with a guide of San Miguel’s most famous sight, and learn about this stunning masterpiece’s cultural significance, history, and architectural design.
While Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel may be the city’s historic landmark, Casa de Sierra Nevada - A Belmond Hotel is an adventure for the senses that’s both connected to the locale and is its own private sanctuary with water fountains, blooming flower pots and 17th- and 18th-century buildings. You’ll be staying at one of the most unique hotels in San Miguel de Allende, with breakfast daily and with no two rooms alike–all featuring stunning art and antiques while retaining their historic charm without sacrificing modern luxury.
While vacationing, savor a 3-course dinner with a bottle of house wine at Restaurante del Parque.
Featuring
Round-trip coach class airfare from within the 48 contiguous U.S. to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Three-day/4-night stay at Casa de Sierra NevadaA Belmond Luxury Hotel with special turndown service and flowers
Breakfast Daily
Three-course dinner with a bottle of wine at Restaurante del Parque
Private guided tour of San Miguel de Allende with a special focus on Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
Embark on a culinary journey for your next birthday, anniversary or special occasion, curated by Houston’s own, Alex Brennan-Martin. Meet us at Brennan’s for an evening of award-winning cuisine, and exceptional wine pairing amidst an unparalleled atmosphere.
The Crown Jewel of Texas Creole Cuisine and Southern Hospitality, Brennan’s of Houston, has a rich history rooted back to 1967 opening as a sister restaurant to the world-famous Commander’s Palace in New Orleans. Incorporating the freshest local ingredients, Brennan’s features exceptional dining, including many original creations among their award-winning cuisine. From pan to plate to palate, their brigade of culinary professionals directs its overwhelming passion for food and hospitality at creating great memories for every guest every time.
Dates by mutual agreement
Generously donated by: Brennan’s of Houston and Alex Brennan-Martin
Featuring
A four-course custom curated dinner for 6 guests at Brennan’s of Houston
Wine pairings with each course
For each couple, a signed copy of “The Kitchen Table: Brennan’s of Houston” to take home
Meet and greet with Brad Brennan or Alex Brennan-Martin tableside during dinner
Join the Houston Astros for a legendary once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the ultimate game package for 12!
Be the highest bidder and receive 12 tickets to watch our hometown heroes and 2017 & 2022 World Series Champions, the Houston Astros, take on the Detroit Tigers at Minute Maid Park! Your experience begins at the Aramark Suite complete with delicious food, beverages and spirits.
This home run package includes an in-suite visit by a Houston Astros Hall of Famer along with Astros Mascot, Orbit, so be ready to take plenty of photos.
At the end of the night, witness the Astros’ traditional fireworks display with your own take-home ball cap for each guest.
Generously donated by: Aramark and the Houston Astros
Featuring
Twelve Game Tickets to the Aramark Astros Suite with Food, Beverages and Spirits on Friday, June 14, 2024, when the Astros take on the Detroit Tigers
Three Parking Passes
In-Suite Visit by a Houston Astros Hall of Famer
In-Suite Visit by Houston Astros Mascot, Orbit
Astros Baseball Caps for Each Guest
Visit one of the most unique cities in the world – New Orleans, with a 3-night/4-day stay at the luxurious Henry Howard Hotel, originally constructed as a double gallery townhouse in 1867 and reimagined into an 18-room boutique hotel in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Offering world class art, museums, architecture, jazz and entertainment, the Big Easy is known as America’s most European city.
While staying at the hotel, see the best the neighborhood has to offer with a comprehensive walking tour of the Garden District
Next experience Mass and a personal tour of St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest Catholic Cathedral in continual use in the United States as well as one of New Orleans’ most notable landmarks. Hear the bells toll and view the triple steeple tower that overlooks the Green of Jackson Square, followed by brunch at Commander’s Palace.
During your stay make time to visit the National WWII Museum which contains an impressive collection of artifacts and educational films documenting all aspects of the war from the islands of the Pacific to the dogged days in Europe to the crucial efforts of home.
And what would a trip to NOLA be without fine dining? Have dinner at Galatoire’s, one of the city’s most elegant dining rooms that epitomizes Old-Style French Creole Bistro and one of the most remarkable dining experiences in the country.
Generously donated by: IWA Advisory Board
Featuring
Four-day/3-night stay at the Henry Howard Hotel
Walking Tour of the Garden District with Neighborhood Cocktails at Tin Cup Mass at St. Louis Cathedral with a Personal Docent Tour and Commemorative Book
Brunch at Commander’s Palace
Dinner at Galatoire’s
Admission to the World War II Museum
FOR TWO | VALUE: PRICELESS
Round Top is not only famous for its antique shows and culture, it is also a popular destination for a weekend getaway. Your weekend respite begins at the super chic boutique hotel The Frenchie, right in the heart of Round Top, for 3 days and 2 nights. The beautiful property includes three buildings: a circa 1890s farmhouse, cottage and art studio, and is a favorite among locals and guests alike. The main house includes a kitchen, living area, dining and breakfast room that are used as common spaces you can enjoy during your stay. Be sure to savor a glass of wine on the back porch, or enjoy gorgeous country sunsets from the hotel’s beautiful hot tub and pool. During your stay, enjoy Brunch from Chef Brenna.
Another notable secret in town is Festival Hill (also known as Round Top Festival Institute) which is nestled on a sprawling 210-acre campus and boasts stunning performance facilities, charming historic houses with vast gardens, trees, parks and jogging trails. Experience the Season Opening Concert for the Texas Festival Orchestra on June 8, but only after dinner and drinks at Lulu’s, Round Top’s most coveted dining experience featuring fine Italian fare.
And before you head home, be sure to stop in to take a self-guided tour of St. Martin’s, the World’s smallest Catholic Church!
Featuring
Lodging at The Frenchie Boutique Hotel for 3 days/2 nights
Brunch at The Frenchie
Tickets to the Texas Festival Orchestra Season Opening Concert at Festival Hill on June 8 Dinner and Drinks at Lulu’s Self-Guided Tour of the World’s Smallest Catholic Church, St. Martin’s Weekend of Antiquing and Sightseeing
Meet in Madisonville, Texas, for a 3-day/2-night deer and hog hunt. Visit Sanita’s 2,000-acre cattle working ranch about an hour outside of Houston with opportunities to hunt whitetail deer, Feral hogs and coyotes.
The weekend begins with bourbon and cigars around the bonfire, along with a seated dinner in the main house.
Next morning, your guide will take you out to your private deer blind for one to two people to hunt.
After lunch, break for skeet shooting and target practice. Catered steak dinner follows with an evening hog hunt should you choose.
Sunday morning there’s just enough time to get in one last hunt before Mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.
Restrictions & Notations:
Date of the Hunt: December 6-8 or December 13-15, 2024
Ammunition and guns not provided
Nighttime hog hunting will require a Thermal Scope provided by guest
All guests to provide a Texas hunting license for whitetail deer Hunters must be 25 years or older
Generously donated by: The Rizzo Family
Lodging for 3 days/2 nights at Sanita Ranch
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Throughout Stay
Evening Bonfire with Bourbon & Cigars
Opportunity to Hunt White Tail Deer, Feral Hog and Coyote Throughout Stay
Skeet Shooting and Target Practice
Head over to Kyle Stadium in College Station to watch the Texas Aggies take on the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, October 5, 2024, in the luxury of a private suite with family and friends.
Don your maroon-and-white, and get ready to cheer on your favorite Texas College Football team led by Mike Elko in his first season as head coach. This is your chance to be a part of some of the biggest buzz in college sports! Whoop!
Generously donated by: Danielle and Doss Cunningham
Fully loaded East-side suite at Kyle Field with Food, Beverages and Spirits
Sixteen tickets for the SEC Football Game Featuring Texas A&M vs. Missouri on Saturday, October 5, 2024
Two Parking Passes
Meet us in River Oaks for an incredible evening of fine wine and fabulous fare. Your hosts Lauren and wine connoisseur Warren Harris will select pairings from their personal cellar to complement the scrumptious seasonal meal personally curated for you by Chef Ryan Bouillet of A Fare Extraordinaire.
The evening begins with a delicious hors d’oeuvres reception paired with Dom Pérignon Champagne followed by a three-course seated dinner. In addition to your party of eight, Sister Lauren and Sister Carmel will join you at table as well as your hosts.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity for an extraordinary evening of fine wine and delectable cuisine.
Dates by mutual agreement. Excludes holidays and dates in October through December 2024.
Generously donated by: Lauren and Warren Harris and A Fare Extraordinaire
Featuring
Curated Catered Dinner by A Fare Extraordinaire for Eight Guests
Champagne Hors d’oeuvres Reception
Wine Pairings and Discussion with Each Course
Chance to have dinner with Sister Lauren Beck and Sister Carmel O’Malley
Please visit https://one.bidpal.net/iwagala24 on April 12 for Online Bidding Options
Sister Lauren Beck, C.V.I. President
Cathy Stephen Principal
Sister Lauren Beck, C.V.I. Incarnate Word Academy, President
Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Congregational General Superior
Sister Maria Eleanor Caisido, C.V.I.
Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Congregational Leadership Team
Fr. John Huber, CSB
Basilian Fathers, Director of Catholic Education
Sister Kevina Keating, CCVI Sisters of Charity, Congregational General Superior
Sister Carmel O’Malley, C.V.I.
Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Congregational Leadership Team
Jeanice Netzel ’79 President Board of Advisors
Tedd Winter Past President Board of Advisors
Carla A. Alsandor University of St. Thomas
Carol Birkofer Cadence Bank
Nora Brooks Retired Attorney
Mary Caprio
St. Michael/ Co-Cathedral
Anthony Gamez BDO USA, LLP
Executive Committee
Anthony Gamez Secretary and Finance Board of Advisors
Stephen Edworthy Strategic Planning Board of Advisors
Vanessa Garza Morgan Lewis
Olivia Giese ‘15 Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Colin F. Hageney Bullpen Marketing
Jeffrey Hill USA Sod
Deacon Thad Kudela Retired Landscape Architect
Christi Quinn Advancement Committee Board of Advisors
Sister Lauren Beck, C.V.I. President Incarnate Word Academy
Members
Caroline Marciano BNY Mellon Wealth Management
Christine Mathers Worldwide Oilfield Machine
Meg Meliet Hines
Andrea Quinn St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church
Anna Robshaw Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Cathy Stephen Principal Incarnate Word Academy
John Thoelke Director of Finance Incarnate Word Academy
Carolyn Sears Retired Principal St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School
Katy Theroux Retired Corporate Executive
Jonathan Wasielewski LaPorte CPAs and Business Advisors
“IWA is not just a school; it is a community that fosters academic excellence, character development, and the empowerment of young women. It is a place where students are encouraged to explore their potential, serve their communities, and emerge as compassionate, empowered leaders ready to make a positive impact in the world. IWA has made an indelible mark on my life.” –Victoria Haddad ‘15
In 1873, Incarnate Word Academy was founded at 609 Crawford by a group of bright and determined Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament originating from France. The women answered a call to provide a rigorous, balanced education that emphasized both academics and Gospel values in the city of Houston. With that mission, IWA became Houston’s first Catholic school, and the Sisters’ trailblazing spirit continues to define our school’s DNA to this day.
At IWA, our goal is to prepare students for college and give every student a chance to find her God-given potential and passion. Our accomplished faculty take an interest in student success. Our curriculum offers strong college prep courses as well as engaging subjects such as Engineering, Forensic Science, Broadcast News, Choir, and World Languages to spark students’ minds. Our Young Leaders Program empowers students to lead and serve out in the community as they take on roles of servant leaders.
While we celebrate our remarkable past, we believe that the best is yet to come. Through the generosity of our community, we continue to increase and fine-tune an innovative academic curriculum, launch building projects such as our new parking garage, add new sports such as tennis, and expand scholarship and financial aid programs, which allows the school to remain faithful to its mission.
As we wind down our exciting 150th Anniversary, we pay tribute to the friends and supporters who have joined our cause and helped our school grow and thrive.
We especially salute our IWA graduates–young women who have gone on to excel in colleges throughout the U.S. and abroad. These “Women of the Word” carry with them the knowledge they have received and the values they have embraced to affect positive change in the world.
Fidelity to You!
