The 43rd Annual Gala Saturday, May 10, 2025 Chaired by Shawn and Julia Tobias
Access the Online Auction Here
Program and Auction Lookbook
WEISSBIER WINNERS
$50,000 and above
Anonymous
MÄRZEN MARVELS
$35,000 and above
Sean Joseph and Mahau Ma
Sponsors
PILSNER PALS
$15,000 and above
Sandra and Sassan Alavi
Lauren and Marc Bevand
Christina and St. Elmo Crawford
Yajing Cui and Jinxiang Wu
HEFEWEIZEN HEROES
$25,000 and above
Diana Strauss Casey
KÖLSCH KAMERADEN
$10,000 and above
Jennifer Hecker DuVal and Fred DuVal
Graeme Gabriel and Simone Kanter
Benjamin and Kimberly Lee
Jana Messerschmidt and David Richter
Sofie and Timothy Whitfield
LAGER LOT
$5,000 and above
Thien and Gary Benitt
Birtan Cetinoz and Vivian An Hong Xia
Felicia and Daniel Fierro
Amy and John Hargreaves
Priya and Andy Huggett
Nan and Elvin Lai
Noelle Khoury Ludwig '91 and Timothy Ludwig
Gary and Jinny Pace
Rumana Rehman-Ghouri
Nadia and Chad Ruyle
Will Small and Kelly Tran/Small Law PC
Shawn and Julia Tobias
Brenda and William Watts
The Wornovitzky Family
Dear Parker Community,
Why We Gather at the Gala
Cheers to the 43 Annual Francis Parker School Gala: Biergarten! This annual celebration brings us together to support what matters most—our extraordinary students.
The Biergarten theme embodies the communal spirit at the heart of the Parker experience: coming together at shared tables, engaging in meaningful conversation, and celebrating our connections in a warm, welcoming environment. The community created by the Gala event reflects our belief in fostering those connections that make our School so unique.
We gather to celebrate our community, but we also gather because of our commitment to educational access. Currently, 25% of Parker students receive financial assistance, with need-based awards ranging from $1,000 to over $43,000 annually across all grades from JK through Grade 12. Every financial assistance recipient who graduates from Parker continues their educational journey—a 100% matriculation rate. Importantly, we ensure these students experience everything Parker offers–beyond classroom instruction–such as global trips and school dances.
My deepest appreciation goes to our Gala Chairs, Shawn and Julia Tobias, who have poured their creativity, energy, and passion into making this evening a remarkable celebration. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to generous Gala sponsors, whose contributions have underwritten the costs of this celebration, ensuring that every dollar raised directly benefits our students' educational experience.
Let’s prost in this festive setting, celebrate students, and enjoy our community!
With gratitude,
Kevin Yaley, Ph.D. Head of School
Our goal is to raise $1,000,000 for student financial assistance. Raise your paddle proudly for our Lancer Legion.
Dear Friends of Parker,
Prost from the Gala Chairs
We look forward to gathering at Parker’s signature, adults-only evening–the Biergarten Gala, uniting all three divisions. Each year, we celebrate our students as we are reminded of the profound impact of holistic education. We ground ourselves in gratitude as we acknowledge that the path to higher education is paved with financial obstacles that can seem insurmountable. Through our community’s generosity at this annual event, we are enabling deserving young people to experience a path that may not have otherwise been possible. You do this. We do this! In this way, everyone pays what they can afford to attend Parker.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Your generosity is more than altruism. It’s an investment in students who positively influence the entire Parker ecosystem, bringing fresh perspectives and strong values. And while all of this is happening, Parker is creating an atmosphere of belonging, creating a secure environment in which young adults can safely explore who they want to become. In this sense, the Parker Gala is the rising tide that lifts all boats. This is the magic of Parker.
Serving as your stewards for this year ’ s Gala offers a wide-angle lens of the magnitude of our community’s commitment to our children. And we’ll tell you, the view is spectacular! Thank you for your dedication to Parker and to the promise of educational access. Prost to you, our students, and our faculty and staff!
With heartfelt appreciation, Shawn and Julia Tobias
(Dylan ’27, Piper ’28, Josephine ’35, Jacob ’37)
Gala Event Registration
James Alan Rose Art Gallery
Event Timeline
Linda Vista Campus opens Dessert and Dance Floor opens Lancer Lawn opens for Dinner Afterparty concludes Dinner, Live Auction, and Paddle Raise
Enegren Brewing Co. Valkyrie German-Style Amber Ale
Pretzel Salt Margarita
Tequila | Pressed Lime | House Orange Tincture | Cane
Sugar | Kosher Salt Rim
Bavarian Blush
Tequila, Vodka, or Bourbon | Smashed Dragon Fruit |
Muddled Basil | Infused Black Pepper | Agave Nectar |
Pressed Lime
Food Station
Warm Pretzel Bar
Sea Salt | Beer Cheese Dip | Hot Mustard | Honey Mustard
Tray-Passed Bites
Roasted Artichoke & Yukon Gold Potato Soup
Basil Crème Fraîche
Cured Salmon Crostini
Cucumber | Beets | Chervil Oil and Mustard Sauce
Flammkuchen
Crispy Flatbread | Crème Fraîche | Bacon | Onion
Dinner
“The Coast” Wedge Salad
Iceberg Wedge | Heirloom Grape Tomato | Creamy
Gorgonzola Dressing | Golden Raisins | Caramelized Pecans |
Applewood Smoked Bacon
Vegan option available
Main Dish
(Pre-selected)
Beer Glazed Brats and Sauerkraut
Celery Root & Red-Skinned Potatoes
Braised Red Cabbage with Vinegar
Pan-Roasted Chicken
Leeks | Lemon Jus | Whipped Garlic Potato
Leek, Potato and Gruyere Strudel (Vegetarian)
Rocket Salad and Roasted Cherry Tomato Dessert
Cinnamon Apple Strudel
Granny Smith Apples | Raisins | Caramel | Whipped Cream
What to Wear
Live Auction
4-Night Escape for 18 at the Fabulous VillaDelfines in Los Cabos
Dive into the heart of luxury with an exclusive five-day, four-night stay for up to 18 guests at the breathtaking Villa Delfines in Villa Del Mar, Los Cabos.
The home includes seven opulent bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, a state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, and expansive living areas that open up to scenic ocean views, a private pool with a swim-up bar, and nearby golf courses. Daily housekeeping and continental breakfast are included. The home has 24-hour security.
This amazing location is available during Parker’s fall break (October 11‒13, 2025) and mid-winter break (March 2‒6, 2026).
Donated By: The Jaime/Beale Family
Value:
$15,000
Restrictions: Subject to availability. Not available during major holidays, including Holy Week, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s. Valid through 5/30/26.
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
3-Night Experience for 2 at Luxurious Arizona Wellness
Retreat: Canyon Ranch
Escape for four days and three nights and indulge in the full spectrum of Canyon Ranch amenities. Each moment is designed to promote wellness and rejuvenation.
Find guidance to inspire your well way of life at the Canyon Ranch all-inclusive wellness resort in Tucson, AZ. Collaborate with a team of experts to address your wellness intentions. Indulge in all the resort’s features including unlimited delicious meals, spa and salon services, and luxury accommodations set in the breathtaking Sonoran Desert. Relax and recharge while enjoying three daily farm-fresh meals and unlimited snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Take advantage of full access to spa facilities, an indoor pool, and hiking trails. Choose from over 20 daily wellness activities including fitness classes, art workshops, guided hikes, and wellness presentations. Complimentary on-site parking is included.
This amazing location is available during Parker’s fall break (October 11‒13, 2025).
Donated By: Nicole Zuckerman-Morris and Kenneth Morris
Value: $8,700
Restrictions: Reservations required/subject to availability Blackout dates may apply. Certificate cannot be applied to online reservations. The certificate number must be mentioned at the time of booking. Standard cancellation fees apply to all reservations. Reservations must be made within 90 days of the desired arrival date. All nights must be booked consecutively Certificates are non-transferable Valid through 12/1/25
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
3-Night All-Inclusive Stay for 2 at Brush Creek Ranch Lodge & Spa
Experience the true spirit of the American West at this luxury ranch, named a top resort in the country. Inspired by the majestic beauty and rich history of the region, the Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is where traditional rusticity and adventure meet unbridled luxury.
Immerse yourself in over 30,000 remote, private acres in the heart of Wyoming's North Platte River Valley. Indulge in inclusive gourmet meals and alcoholic beverages sourced from the ranch’s award-winning distillery, one of the world's top 10 largest wine collections, goat creamery, greenhouse, 100% American Wagyu beef, and more. Enjoy two daily activities from a vast array of year-round, authentic ranch adventures such as horseback riding, archery and shooting range, fly fishing, yoga, and more. https://www.brushcreekranch.com/
Donated By: Amanda Mills Wascher ‘93 and Brush Creek Ranch Lodge & Spa
Value: $12,000
Restrictions: Based on availability. Excludes holidays. Additional blackout dates may apply.
Includes: Luxury lodging, three daily gourmet meals, alcohol, two daily activities, and gratuities
Excludes: Spa services, a la carte activities and experiences, premium alcohol selections, select menu offerings, and gratuities for any of these mentioned add-ons.
Valid through 12/1/26
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
5-Hour Summer Splash Bash for 21 in the Douglas Aquatic Center
Host a summer pool party in Parker’s brand-new Douglas Aquatic Center for your friends and family!
Perfect for a birthday party or a family event! Along with 20 guests, you will enjoy exclusive use of the entire Aquatic Center for an afternoon of your choosing. Swim, sun, and play hours of pool games while enjoying deckside eats and treats, all accompanied by the soundtrack of Parker faculty member and DJ, Mr. Otañez!
Raise your paddle and treat yourself and your loved ones to a once-in-a-lifetime party that will make a splash like never before! The School will provide a lifeguard, pool activities, a DJ, and eats/treats.
Donated By: Francis Parker School
Value: Priceless
Restrictions: Package is for 21 guests (max) for 5 hours (between 12‒6 pm)
Must be used during summer of 2025; can be rescheduled with inclement weather. No alcohol permitted. Non-transferable.
To be scheduled with the Parker Athletics Department.
Valid through 8/31/25
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
7 Nights for 10 in a Luxurious Ocean-View
Hilltop Santa Barbara Home
A week in paradise that’s just a short drive from home? Welcome to Seascape Santa Barbara, a modern, multilevel dwelling boasting ample natural light, contemporary design, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Located on a peaceful acre near Santa Barbara, this 2021remodeled architectural gem offers seclusion just 15 minutes from downtown and 5 minutes from Hendry's Beach.
This midcentury home accommodates 10 guests across multiple levels. The ground floor features a guest suite with queen bed, while the mezzanine holds a king bedroom with private balcony. The main floor showcases soaring ceilings and large windows that connect indoor and outdoor spaces, plus a bunk room for additional guests.
The primary suite on the upper level offers high ceilings, panoramic views, and an ocean-facing terrace, while a topfloor media room provides space for entertainment.
Outside, a turf terrace creates a safe play area and a peaceful relaxation spot. Seascape Santa Barbara combines impressive architecture with a serene ambiance for a memorable vacation.
Donated By: Anonymous
Value: $5,000
Restrictions: Booking is subject to availability. Book early for best availability
Valid through 5/10/26
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
Parker parents, say goodbye to neighborhood parking!
The winner of this item is entitled to one dedicated parking spot at the Mission Hills Campus for the 2025‒26 school year.
Donor: Francis Parker School
Value: $1,025
Restrictions: The School will select the location of the parking space.
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
Celebrate your graduate's crowning achievement in style! Secure an excellent view to this milestone moment with our Premium Commencement Package.
You'll enjoy six premium reserved seats in a prime location, perfectly positioned to capture those once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities. Guaranteed premium parking just steps away from the venue entrance in the Bahai lot. Skip the parking hassle and arrival stress on this momentous day. This premium package is highly sought-after the perfect way to honor your graduate's achievements while enjoying maximum comfort and convenience.
Donor: Francis Parker School
Value: Priceless
Date: Saturday, May 31st, 2025
Restrictions: The School will select the location of the parking space and commencement seats.
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
VIP Parking
Mission Hills Campus
VIP 2025 Commencement Experience
Exclusive Gourmet Culinary Experience and Stay for 10 at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Indulge in a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure designed for discerning food lovers!
This extraordinary package offers you and nine guests the chance to immerse yourselves in a bespoke dining experience, crafted by the top chefs at The Lodge at Torrey Pines. This is the last year we will be offering this item in our auction–don’t miss it!
Collaborate with the chef to design a tailor-made threecourse menu, ensuring a meal that reflects your culinary preferences and surprises you with creative, seasonal flavors.
Extend the indulgence with six signature guest rooms at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, each available for one night. Experience the pinnacle of comfort and luxury, making your culinary journey a truly unforgettable overnight escape.
Donated By: Robert Gleason and The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Value: $8,500
Restrictions: Please note that room bookings are subject to availability and must be arranged in advance directly with the hotel. Not valid during the months of June through August or during holiday periods, but is valid through April 30, 2026.
Valid through 4/30/26
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
7 Nights in Manhattan Luxe Escape: A
Week in the Heart of NYC
Bid on this exclusive family getaway to a luxurious 2-bedroom condo in the heart of Hudson Yards—one of Manhattan's most exciting new neighborhoods!
Enjoy up to 7 nights in a stylish retreat, just steps from iconic attractions like the High Line, and just one subway stop from Times Square. Don't miss this unique opportunity exclusively available to Parker families!
Bask in endless city views from the 78th floor of this 1,600 sqft 2-bedroom condo (cal king and 2 twin beds) located between Hell's Kitchen and Chelsea with walking access to many iconic locations, restaurants, and theaters
Enjoy amazing amenities in the building, including a gym and swimming pool with sweeping 360° views. Treat yourself to the sunset views from the common area on the 90th floor overlooking the Hudson River. Experience the High Line by walking to Chelsea Market, then explore Little Island, one of NY's newest attractions.
See some of the greatest shows and musicals, such as The Lion King or Wicked, or immerse yourself in the galleries of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Take advantage of the #7 subway line, only 5 minutes away, to easily go to Times Square, Grand Central Station, or even a Mets baseball game at Citi Field.
Donated By: Steve Bjorg
Value: $10,000
Restrictions: The apartment building is a non-smoking, no pets facility; exclusively for Parker families. Valid through 5/10/26.
Learn more about this exclusive opportunity
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Featured Items from the Online Auction
Whether you are ready for a vacation, a new experience, Parker perks, delicious food and wine, or other exclusive offerings, the Parker Biergarten Gala Online Auction has something for everyone!
Auction
Online Auction available from May 2 to May 9, 2025
MANIA
VACATIONS
Bahamas Oceanfront Home: 5 Nights for 6
Palm Springs Estate Home: 5 Nights for 10 (Available Fall Break)
La Manga, Spain Escape: 7 Nights for 6
Seattle City Adventure: 7 Nights for 7
Park City Summer Mountain Retreat: 7 Nights for 12
Westin Resort in Cancun: 7 Nights for 8
UNIQUE EXPERIENCES
Padres Manager for the Day for 4
Fishing Charter for 4 on 'Mission Belle'
Versatile Cruise on 'Southern Cross'
Padres: Premium Dugout Tickets for 4
VIP Soccer Experience: San Diego Wave FC
Luxury Box for 5
Head of Lower School for the Day Grade 5 Promotion: 2025 Seating and Parking
Tabletop Role Playing Games with Mr. Griggs Honorary Coach for Any Parker Home Game with Coach Mahina
The Ultimate Playdate for 10 with Ms. Araujo, Dr. Brown, and Ms. Buttaro
Baking & Tea Party for 2 with Mrs Sinnott
Visit the Birch Aquarium with Ms Rekevics
FOOD & WINE
Jakeʻ s Del Mar: Catered Dinner for 10
Flap Your Jacks: Brunch & Cocktails for 8
Rubicon Deli: “Golden Ticket” of 1 Meal/Week for 1 Year
SIGN UP
Whether you're a seasoned player or just enjoy the game, don’t miss your chance to play and network–all while funding student financial assistance.
Join us for a high-stakes poker tournament with a professional dealer tournament structure in support of Parker students.
$1,000 per player
Friday, September 26, 2025
6:30 –10:00 pm
Hosted by the Nakhshab family
Prize
Winner takes home the First Annual Parker Poker Championship trophy and will be celebrated at the following Francis Parker Gala.
Restrictions
Limited to Parker parents only. Food and beverages provided. No cash prizes. Must be 21+ to participate.
The Alex Morgan Foundation
Todd Alexander
Altha Align
Eva Araujo
Rita and Aziz Asmar
Jana Suzanne Barrow
Bianca and Devin Beale
Mason Biddle
Blissful Beauty
Aaron Brennan
Amanda Brown
Laurie Buttaro
C&L Catering
Birtan Cetinoz and Vivian An Hong Xia
Courtney Clements Fields
theCoderSchool La Jolla
Nora Connolly and Predrag Cepurac
Paris and Cameron Cribben
Destiny Coast Restaurant La Jolla
Details Salon & Spa
Dukeʻ s La Jolla
Isaac Duran
Nick Ennis
Francis Parker School
Jaime and Darrell Gonzales
In-Kind Donors
Thank You to Our In-Kind Donors
The Great - One Paseo
Ryan Griggs
Casey and Maybritt Haeling
Hammitt
Lauren Hirsh '93
Kathy and Hal Holte
Adam Ith and Caroline Perry
Jake's Del Mar
Kim Belverud Photography
La Jolla Fitness Studio
La Jolla Music Society
Jaclyn Adler Lash '02
Margaret Magone and Theodore Cacouris
Kimberly Manno Reott
Kelly Martinez
Stacey McGahan and Nikolaus Gubernator
Mary Ong-Dean
Devon Outcault
The Pasha Family
Scott Peters
PRP Wine International
Brianna Rekevics
Brook Roberts and Evan Corsiglia
Sarah Rothschild
Nadia and Chad Ruyle
San Diego Climbing School
San Diego Surf School
Cecile Santini
Chris Scelfo and Bonne Adams
Sculpted Lagree Studio
Sedano Automotive Group
Jennette and Dennis Shay
Morgan and Boris Shekhter
Karishma Sinnott
Steak 48
Laura and Joshua Stein
Summer Stephan
Tania Swasbrook
SWSB Solutions
The Stronghold
Erick Threets
Amanda and Mitch Thrower
Cameron Townsend
Understand the Grind Foundation
Sofie and Timothy Whitfield
The Wornovitzky Family
Yaro Jane Photography
Jong Hwan Yun and Vi Thuy Nguyen
Anonymous (2)
Event tickets
Important Information
Only registered ticket holders will be admitted to the 2025 Parker Biergarten (Gala) at Francis Parker School (Parker). There will be no ticket sales at the door. Fund-a-Scholarship paddle raise donations are tax-deductible.
Liability
Neither Parker nor any individual directly or indirectly involved in the planning or execution of the Gala assumes any responsibility for the description, authenticity, or condition of any auction item Further, no warranty or guarantee, expressed or implied, is made by Parker for any auction item By participating in the auction and placing a bid, all bidders expressly release and discharge Parker, its trustees, officers, employees, volunteers, and agents from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or rights of action which are related to, arise out of, or are in any way connected with an auction item
Parking
On-campus parking is available in the parking garage Ride-sharing is encouraged
Program
Gala volunteers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information in this program The date stamp of the program information is April 17, 2025
Proxy Bidding
Proxy bidders must work with the Advancement team to authorize bidding on their behalf Please email advancement@francisparker org by April 25, 2025, if you are interested
Receipts
Receipts detailing purchases will be generated from the OneCause auction software and emailed within one month following the Gala. The Advancement Office will also mail an official gift receipt and acknowledgment letter for outright gifts in support of student financial assistance and School-donated auction items in which the winning bid is $10,000 or more.
Auction
All auction item descriptions are based on information provided by the donor. Parker has made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information. Parker is not responsible for the accuracy of the information or the quality of services or merchandise delivered. All contractual and legal agreements concerning items auctioned are entirely between the buyer and the provider of the services or merchandise. Each item is sold “ as is” without any warranty (expressed or implied) and without representation by Parker as to the actual value of the item For charitable tax deductions, please consult with your tax professional as to the deductibility of auction items, as goods and services are received as part of this transaction Each item has a value and it is stated in the program or on the OneCause receipt supplied to each registered bidder/winner We have asked the donor to do their best to determine the Fair Market Value (FMV) If you have questions about auction items, please contact Gala volunteers at galaauction@francisparker org
Silent Auction Payment
Parker accepts credit cards, cash, and checks Auction items must be paid in full and picked up within a week of purchase
Gratitude
The School is grateful to the Gala Chairs and volunteers for the countless hours they have poured into ensuring the success of this cherished event. Thank you for all your time, energy, love, and devotion to the Parker family.
Questions
Please contact Gala volunteers at galatech@francisparker.org if you have any questions before the event. For questions after the event, please contact Allison Morrissey in the Advancement Office at 858/874-3382 or advancement@francisparker.org.
The Casey Family proudly supports Francis Parker School
The Sedano Family gladly supports Parker
Gala Leadership
Chairs
Shawn and Julia Tobias
Sponsorship Concierge
Jennifer Cumming and Mandi Harlin
Auction Procurement and Coordination
Rita Asmar and Kelly Makley
Technology
Rachel Blum, Van Vo, and Shukky Sanni
Ticket Sales
Priya Patel and Ekta Champsi
Registration Priya Patel
Entertainment
Jennifer Johnson and Rita Asmar
Members
Bhumika Chhabra • St. Elmo Crawford • Felicia Fierro • Ryan Gittins • Saurav Gorai • Jesus Herrera • Douglas Hersh • Wencit Hersh • Fiona Liba • Jeremiah Magone • Claire Mao • Jessie McBride • Elizabeth McMahon • Erica Murphy • Oanh Nguyen • Dani Sicklick • Michelle Vanstone • Nicholas Veomett • Volkan Vural • Melda Baysal Walsh • Sofie Whitfield • Anna Wroblewska • Liz Zborowski • Rebecca Zhao
