As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion, and peacemaking. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing students to contribute to the world through service and leadership.
The University of St. Francis was founded and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate .
BENEFITING UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS STUDENTS
PROGRAM
WELCOME
Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D.
USF President
INVOCATION
Sr. Jeanne Bessette, OSF President, Sisters of St. Francis of Mary
Immaculate
DINNER
LIVE AUCTION
PADDLE RAISE
DANCING
BeatMix Music
SILENT
AUCTION
Until 10:30 p.m.
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ABM
Caritas Video gifted to USF by Rosie & Cesar Cardenas and Unidos Marketing Network, LLC
BeatMix Music
Bishops Hill Winery
Chat-Tastic Balloons
D2B Production
David Nelson
Exquisite Jewelry
Mike Ferraro
George Jewell Events Catering
J.P.W. Productions
Joliet Tent
Reflections by Tracy Satin Chair Event
Decor & Rental
Entire USF Community:
USF Athletics
USF Business Office
USF IT
USF Marketing Services
USF Saints Ambassadors
USF Safety & Security
USF Volunteers
SIGNATURE DRINK
Pearls of Wisdom
PASSED HORS D’OEUVRES
Bacon Wrapped Dates (GF)
Seafood – Petite Mahi Mahi Tacos (GF)
Shaved Beef Carpaccio on a Pretzel Crostini
Prosciutto Melon Parisienne (GF)
FIRST COURSE
Mediterranean Salad (V, GF)
MAIN ENTRÉE
Roasted Greek Style Beef Short Ribs
Lemon Piccata Whitefish
Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Grilled Seasonal Vegetables
VEGETARIAN & VEGAN OPTION
Roasted Tomato, Pepper & Eggplant Tower
DESSERT
Almond Apple Tartlet
TABLESIDE COFFEE SERVICE
Regular and Decaffeinated Coffee
Assorted Hot Teas
CARITAS COMMITTEE
HOSTS
Anne & USF President Arvid Johnson
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Tanisha Cannon ‘16 & David Cannon
Rosie & Cesar Cardenas
Michelle ‘09, ‘10, ‘20 & Terry Cottrell ‘99, ‘03
Nick D’Arcy
Sue & Terry D’Arcy
Iman Ellis Bowen ‘20 & Duane Bowen
Patty Gonzalez ‘19 & Jay Barriga
Annette Jelinek
Kaity & Jeff Kohl
Suzi ‘02 & Gordon Marsh
Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio
Jodi ‘96, ‘02 & Scott Schager
Gina & Brian Sharp ‘97, ‘01
Maggie Sillar
Michele & Tom Vana
Wilhelmine ‘68 & John Vidmar
Tracey ‘92 & Dan Vogen ‘93
Theresa Dollinger Waldron & Jon Waldron
Dear Friends of the University of St. Francis,
Anne and I welcome you to tonight’s 2025 Caritas Scholarship Celebration—the 68th event in a long history of support of our students. It brings us great joy to gather once again in person, on campus, and surrounded by friends both old and new.
During my time as president of the University of St. Francis, our tradition of Caritas has raised nearly $3M in direct support of student scholarships. It has been a privilege to work closely with the Caritas Committee throughout the years as we re-imagined and re-focused our time-honored tradition.
Anne and I are deeply grateful to you for your lasting dedication and generous support. It is because of the generosity you show at Caritas each year that our students are able to become the servant leaders of tomorrow. This evening is not only about the power of scholarship support, but also about student success and the talented, hardworking students who are a testament to the value of a USF education.
A special “thank you” to our presenting sponsor D’Arcy Buick GMC— and Caritas Committee members Sue and Terry D’Arcy and Nick D’Arcy. Thanks, also, to Wintrust Financial for their continued support, as well as the support provided by all of our generous sponsors. Your contributions enable the University of St. Francis to provide a highquality, Franciscan-inspired college education that remains accessible to all of our students. We are also deeply grateful for your individual support, including the efforts of our dedicated Caritas Committee members, who have made tonight’s event possible.
My hope is that you will have the opportunity to engage with our student volunteers this evening in order to discover and understand the difference you are making. Thank you for being a part of our welcoming community of learners, and for your continued commitment to our Franciscan values of compassion, integrity, respect and service.
Pace e Bene, ARVID C. JOHNSON, PH.D. USF President
USF PRESIDENT
CHAIR OF THE USF BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dear Caritas Supporters,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for your continued commitment to the University of St. Francis through your support of the Caritas Scholarship Celebration.
As you know, this is the last year for Arvid Johnson as president of USF. During Arvid’s time as president, he has shaped what Caritas is today with over $3M raised in support of student scholarships. Tonight is an opportunity to recognize Arvid and his contributions to the University of St. Francis by raising your paddle and thinking “BIG.”
Together, we are the University of St. Francis,
JOE MALLOF Chair, University of
St. Francis Board of Trustees
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
Friends of Caritas,
The University of St. Francis welcomes you to the 68th Caritas Scholarship Celebration. The cherished tradition of Caritas is a time for the University of St. Francis community to come together in support of our students and their aspirations.
Your generosity through Caritas directly impacts our students by providing scholarships that make a Franciscan education accessible and guarantees opportunity for all students.
Caritas truly takes a Franciscan village to come together with one love in mind, the love of our students at the University of St. Francis. On behalf of your entire Saints community, we are deeply thankful for your support. Together, we are creating opportunities that will shape a brighter future!
With appreciation,
LISA SAMPALIS, MBA ‘24 Vice President for University Advancement
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT
Good Evening,
I want to start by expressing my gratitude to everyone here tonight. Seeing so many people come together in support of the USF community and this year’s Caritas Scholarship Celebration means a great deal. It’s an honor to speak with all of you on behalf of USF students and to be part of such an inspiring evening that recognizes generosity, compassion, and the impact of giving back.
Throughout my time here at USF, I have been blessed to be a part of a community that supports and uplifts one another. Whether that be through mentorship, friendships, or opportunities for growth, USF has fostered an environment where students like me are motivated to step into leadership roles, discover new passions, and learn what it means to become a part of something bigger than ourselves.
Caritas is more than just about scholarships; it represents the spirit of generosity, service, and commitment that enables students to reach their fullest potential. I know firsthand how important that support can be, and I am grateful for everyone who makes that possible.
On behalf of the student body, thank you for your continued support! Your generosity doesn’t just open doors for us, it inspires us to become leaders who will carry the values fostered in the USF community.
I’d like to leave you all with a quote from Linus Pauling, a scientist whose discoveries were matched by his creativity and curiosity: “The best way to have a good idea is to have lots of ideas.” This reminds us that creativity thrives when we’re encouraged to try, explore, and take risks, something your support allows every student to do.
Thank you for being a part of this journey.
ERIK TEJEDA President, Student Government Association
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT
ST. FRANCIS SPONSOR
BROWN & GOLD SPONSORS SAINT SPONSORS BERNIE SPONSORS
FRIENDS SPONSORS
Arvid & Anne Johnson
Rosie & Cesar Cardenas, Unidos Marketing Network
Robert & Patricia ‘67 Wheeler Family Foundation Wintrust
Rothschild Wealth Partners
Mark Inserra, Demark Inc.
Gloria & Ed Dollinger and Family
First Secure Community Bank
Diane ‘77 & Bill Habiger
Kuhn, Heap & Monson
Dede & Joe Mallof
Northern Trust
Donna & John Przybyla ‘92
Quest Food Management Services
Saint Joseph Medical Center
Tracey ‘92 & Dan Vogen ‘93
ABM
Adler Roofing and Sheet Metal, Inc.
Rachael ‘00, ‘05 & Dean Bartolini
Busey Bank
Eric Moon, Cathedral Area Preservation Association
Exxon Mobil
Brett Cosich, Proven IT
Ann ‘79 & Steve Randich ‘80
Tim Wallace Landscape Supply Company, Inc.
Turk Furniture
We apologize for any sponsorships received after this program was printed that are not recognized here. We are grateful for your support!
SILENT AUCTION
AUCTION GUIDELINES
THE SILENT AUCTION
The Silent Auction will conclude at 10:30 p.m.
The Caritas Committee has carefully selected premium items that are made available for purchase by guests through our silent auction.
Goods and service packages have been generously donated by friends of the university.
The silent auction is conducted through computerized auction technology.
Guests may bid as often and on as many items as they wish. All transactions are secure.
Students will be available throughout the event to help guests check on their bids.
BIDDING RULES
• The winning bid is the highest bidder.
• All bids are final when submitted.
• Established bid increments will be followed.
• Bids must meet or exceed the established minimum.
• Reservations and arrangements for all trips, parties, services, activities, etc., must be mutually arranged with the donor. As a courtesy, please contact the donor(s) of your item(s) as soon as possible, as most trips, parties, services, etc., must be used within one year from the date of the auction. If stated arrangements are not made, the activity is forfeited.
• Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee can guarantee the performance of any item, good or service purchased at the event.
• Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee are liable for damage or injury associated with the redemption or use of auction items.
USE YOUR SMARTPHONE AT CARITAS
You can bid on items in the silent auction directly from your web-enabled smartphone. Just search for usf.cbo.io in a web browser or scan the QR code:
If at registration you opted in for SMS messaging, click the link you were sent via text and you will automatically be logged in and can start bidding!
• Every effort is made to catalog and describe each item correctly based on information received from donors. Items are sold “as is.” Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee are responsible in any way for the description or authenticity of any item.
• All sales are final and no refund or exchange of items is possible.
• Winning bidders must pay in full for items by personal check, cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover.
• Checks should be made payable to the University of St. Francis.
• All auction items must be removed or arrangements made for removal by midnight on April 12, 2025.
• Contributions to the University of St. Francis are tax deductible as provided by law.
SILENT AUCTION OFFERINGS
101
HARRAH’S CASINO PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCE
Harrah’s Casino in Joliet will provide you and your guests with a private dining experience in the Reserve Steakhouse private dining room. The dining room seats up to 25 people. A food gift certificate of $1,000 is included along with the luxury of privacy. Please note this certificate is NOT redeemable for alcohol.
Generously donated by Harrah’s Joliet and USF Trustee Rachael Bartolini ‘00, General Manager of Harrah’s Joliet
102
HEY GORGEOUS HANDBAG & CARITAS 2026
Take home this gorgeous pearl embossed bag and two premier tickets to the 2026 Caritas Scholarship Celebration.
Generously donated by Friends of the University of St. Francis
103
OAK BROOK EXTRAVAGANZA!
Grab a friend and indulge yourselves with a little bling with a $500 Tiffany & Co. gift card, a $500 Neiman Marcus gift card, then enjoy dinner with—“you guessed it!”—a $500 Gibsons gift card and a one-night stay at Le Meridien Oak Brook. Generously donated by Le Meridien Oak Brook; Cristina & Ron Kenny ‘81; and Caritas Committee Members Tracey ‘92 & USF Trustee Dan Vogen ‘93 and Jodi ‘96, ‘02 & Scott Schager
104
FOUR-TIME NBA CHAMP HORACE GRANT
Get your HORACE GRANT swag! This lot includes a signed basketball, vintage prints and goggles. Horace Grant, a four-time NBA champion and veteran of 17 seasons is FAMOUS for wearing goggles. Grant opted not to shed his donned eyewear following surgery and continues to be an inspiration.
Generously donated by Theresa Dollinger Waldron & Jon Waldron, Caritas Comittee Members
105
CHILL OUT & SIP: YETI COOLER & SPIRITS
Tequila, Vodka, Gin… stock your liquor cabinet AND get prepared for a tailgate extravaganza. Fill your white Yeti Tundra with ice... CHEERS!
Generously donated by The 2025 Caritas Committee
106
DOLLINGER FARM PUMPKIN PARTY
Host your fall party at Dollinger Family Farm! Enjoy a two-hour party for 20 guests at Dollinger Family Farm in Channahon, Illinois. Your experience includes the use of the entire machine shed during the event. Also included are pizza and kettle corn and 20 tickets for each of the following activities: train ride, face paint, farm scavenger hunt and corn maze. Available on weekends and Columbus Day from September 15, 2025 through October 30, 2025. Visit dollingerfarms.com for the calendar of events and additional information about Dollinger Family Farm.
Generously donated by Dollinger Family Farm
107
VICTOR TRABUCCO 1912 MORNING GLORIES & LILY OF THE VALLEY SCULPTED PAPERWEIGHT, TIZO BOOKENDS & BETTY WHITE
Calling all art collectors! Indulge yourself with a Trabucco sculpted paperweight with a delicate bouquet suspended with a clear, upright encasement irregularly cut with honeycomb faceting on the back and large beveled edges. The paperweight is signed and dated by the artist. This lot also includes Tizo clear crystal bookend pair and a copy of Betty White’s Pearls of Wisdom. Generously donated from the collection of Margaret ‘69 & Bill Benoit
108
ACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT CHICAGO HIGHLANDS GOLF CLUB
You and two guests will enjoy an accompanied round of golf at the private Chicago Highlands Golf Club in Westchester, Illinois. Chicago Highlands is a one-of-a-kind private club in the Chicagoland area that features a links-style Arthur Hills designed golf course with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline and a new state-of-the-art clubhouse. Generously donated by Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
109
ACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT ONWENTSIA CLUB
You and two guests will enjoy an accompanied round of golf at the exclusive Onwentsia Club located in Lake Forest, Illinois. Onwentsia Club is one of the most exclusive clubs in Chicagoland. This course opened in 1892 and has continued its commitment to history and the game of golf. It is a great opportunity to enjoy this hard-to-find golf experience. Generously donated by Emily & Chip Grace and arranged by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
110
ACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT GLEN OAK COUNTRY CLUB
You and two guests will enjoy an accompanied round of golf at the Glen Oak Country Club located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Nestled in the near western suburbs of Chicago, the private 18-hole golf course boasts immaculately manicured conditions, mature tree lined fairways, strategic bunkers and fast, true green. The course, originally designed by prolific architect Tom Bendelow also created Medinah Country Club No. 3 and East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, among others. His design philosophy has been described as a “naturalist’s approach” in that he embraced and utilized a site’s natural features. Generously donated by Rick Sleckman and arranged by Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
111
ACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT EXMOOR COUNTRY CLUB
You and two guests will enjoy an accompanied round of golf at the private Exmoor Country Club, located in Highland Park, Illinois. The Exmoor course presents golfers with a classical golf experience, one that exemplifies the Golden Age of golf architecture—1910-1937—a period when many of America’s most influential courses were built. The layout features design antecedents to the great course of Scotland: imaginative grass-faced bunkers, challenging green complexes and 18-holes shaped in natural ways by the land on which they were built. Donald J. Ross, considered the “Dean” of American golf course architects, designed the Exmoor golf course in 1915. Golf architect Ron Prichard completed a course restoration in 2003, and in 2022, the Exmoor hosted The 120th Western Amateur. Generously donated by Owen & Emily Schnaper and arranged by Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
112
ACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT MEDINAH COUNTRY CLUB COURSE 1
You and two guests will enjoy an accompanied round of golf at the exclusive Medinah Country Club – Course 1 in Medinah, Illinois. Medinah is one of the most intimate and well-known country clubs in the Chicago area, with Course 3 hosting numerous professional golf tournaments, including the 2012 Ryder Cup and 2006 PGA Championship. Course 1 was designed by Tom Doak.
Hosted by Dan Stringfellow, 2024 US Amateur & U.S. Mid-Am Qualifier Generously donated and arranged by Rothschild Wealth Partners
113
UNACCOMPANIED FOURSOME AT POINT O’ WOODS COUNTRY CLUB IN BENTON HARBOR, MI
At Point O’ Woods Golf & Country Club, you will experience 200 acres of maples, pines, and oaks surrounded by the velvety greens of a championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Indulge in private, premiere golfing in the heart of breathtaking Michigan. Enjoy this unaccompanied 18-hole course foursome at Point O’ Woods, ranked in the top 10 best golf courses in Michigan. Generously donated by Michele & Thomas Vana, Caritas Committee Members
114
PRIVATE OLD FASHIONED MAKING CLASS
You and five friends will enjoy a private Old Fashioned “making” class that will expand your horizons beyond the traditional use of bourbon! Hosted by the exceptional Common Good Cocktail Bar in Glen Ellyn. Generously donated by Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
115 HAND-PAINTED WINE GLASSES
Enjoy this one-of-a-kind set of six hand painted wine glasses. Cheers!
Generously donated by Steph ‘05 & Tyler Qualio, Caritas Committee Members
116
LOTTERY TICKET EXTRAVAGANZA –$300 IN SCRATCH-OFF TICKETS!
Feeling lucky? Take a chance with this exciting bundle of instant lottery tickets worth $300! Will you hit the jackpot? Whether you scratch them all at once or save them for a rainy day, this prize could turn into something much bigger. Bid now and let the thrill begin!
Generously donated by USF Trustee Tanisha ‘16 & David Cannon, Caritas Committee Members
117
KREMA COFFEE LOVER’S BASKET
This Coffee Lover’s Basket from Krema Coffee Roasters is a perfect gift for any coffee enthusiast. It includes: Four bags of locally roasted coffee, a $50 gift card and a Krema logo tumbler. Generously donated by Krema Coffee
118
EXCLUSIVE WINE COLLECTION
Indulge in a curated collection of fine wines, perfect for collectors and connoisseurs alike. This exclusive selection features 12 exceptional bottles that showcase a range of rich flavors and renowned wineries. Whether you’re an experienced wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, these bottles promise to elevate any collection.
1. 2020 Humberto Canale Estate 1909
A true expression of Patagonia’s terroir, this wine is a tribute to Humberto Canale’s legacy. The 2020 vintage offers rich, smooth tannins and a beautifully structured body, with notes of dark fruit, oak, and a subtle hint of spice.
2. 2021 Appellation Vista Flores Catena
From the prestigious Catena family, this Argentine Malbec embodies the rich history and expertise of one of the world’s top wine producers. The 2021 vintage presents vibrant red fruit flavors, with a touch of floral and earthy notes, balanced by fine tannins and a lingering finish.
3. 2019 Porter & Plot Chardonnay
A standout Chardonnay from California, this bottle offers a perfect balance of bright citrus, creamy vanilla, and a subtle hint of oak. The 2019 vintage displays a full-bodied profile with refreshing acidity, making it an elegant choice for any occasion.
4. Additional Bottles in the Collection
The remaining nine bottles in this collection continue the theme of exceptional quality, including a variety of red, white, and sparkling wines from top vineyards across the globe. Each bottle tells its own story and invites you to explore a wide array of flavor profiles.
This collection is an exceptional opportunity to acquire rare and distinguished wines.
Generously donated by Michelle ‘09, ‘10, ‘20 & Terry Cottrell ‘99, ‘03, Caritas Committee Members
“ START BY DOING WHAT IS THEN WHAT IS AND SUDDENLY YOU ARE DOING THE
– ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI necessary, possible, impossible. “
LIVE AUCTION
MEET THE AUCTIONEER
Illinois Charity Auctions (ICA) has been in the nonprofit and fundraising industry for over 20 years. Since opening its doors, ICA has developed a true passion for fundraising. While passion for the industry has played a large part in each ICA team member’s career choices, passion for helping others is, by far, the driving force. This overwhelming desire to help others led to the creation of ICA.
Larry Little, tonight’s auctioneer, has been helping charities hold benefit auctions for 16 years and holds the designation of Benefit Auctioneer Specialist (BAS), a professional designation from the National Auctioneers Association. It signifies that an auctioneer has trained with leaders in the field of fundraising auctions, and has himself made a commitment to the industry.
Larry’s success in the charity benefit community is enhanced because of his deep commitment to charitable ventures. Twenty-five years ago, he founded Guardian Angel Basset Rescue, an organization that is one of the leading animal rescue groups in the Midwest.
Tonight, Larry also brings with him two other extraordinary auctioneers who will be helping with the auction... welcome to Stan Knudson and Erik Wilkinson!
LARRY LITTLE
AUCTION GUIDELINES
LIVE AUCTION BIDS
To bid, raise your paddle, making sure the number is visible to the auctioneer. Spotters will assist the auctioneer in noting your bid. Use only the paddle number assigned to you. The highest bidder of any item, as acknowledged by the auctioneer, will be the purchaser. Questions of priority and procedure will be decided by the auctioneer, whose decision will be final and binding. In the event of a dispute between bidders, the auctioneer will have sole and final discretion to determine the successful bidder or to reoffer the item in dispute.
Upon auctioneer’s indication of “SOLD,” title to the item will pass to the highest bidder who thereupon assumes full risk and responsibility. By his/her purchase, the bidder waives any claim for liability against both the University of St. Francis and the donor of the property or service. All items are sold “AS IS.” Dollar values included in any item description are estimates provided by the donor and are not warranted by the Caritas Committee or the University of St. Francis for tax purposes or market value.
PADDLE RAISE
In celebration of over 100 years of providing quality education to deserving students of the University of St. Francis, you will have the opportunity during the live auction to raise your paddle and join others in supporting student scholarships. Each year, the University of St. Francis provides more than $23 million in institutional funds to help students make the dream of a college education come true. You may designate a scholarship to support or allow your funds to go where the need is greatest. All proceeds from tonight’s Caritas Scholarship Celebration will directly benefit student scholarship programs at USF. Everyone goes home a winner. Donations are 100% tax deductible.
PAYMENT
• Payment for live and silent auction items must be made in full by midnight the night of the Caritas Scholarship Celebration.
• Winning bidders must pay in full for items by personal check, cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover.
• Checks should be made payable to the University of St. Francis.
• Upon payment, the winner will be directed to the appropriate location to claim the item. Gift certificates and trip information will be available at this time.
• All auction items must be removed or arrangements made for removal by midnight on April 12, 2025.
• You will be asked to sign for your items and will be offered an emailed receipt at checkout.
YOU SCREAM, I SCREAM!
TCBY FOOD TRUCK FOR 50
Enjoy a private party for 50 of your closest friends by having the TCBY truck cater. Take advantage of Froyo cups (frozen yogurt!) with the toppings bar included. The TCBY truck will cater your event within 20 miles of the University of St. Francis main campus in Joliet, Illinois. Date to be mutually agreed upon, expires October 1, 2025.
Generously donated by Jana Brodeur & TCBY Shorewood
GO CUBS, GO! CHICAGO CUBS 1914 EXPERIENCE
Enjoy two exclusive 1914 Club seats directly behind home plate at Wrigley Field for a game during the 2025 season. This experience includes one overnight stay at The Ritz Carlton Chicago. Game date to be determined with donors.
Generously donated by Kim & USF Trustee Mike Bryant ‘83
COLORADO SPRINGS GETAWAY
Colorado Springs is an alluring outdoor adventure location. With its towering rock formations in varying colors of white, orange, and red snuggled into the mountains and set against the snowy peaks of Pikes Peak and the vivid blue sky, Garden of the Gods Park is a photographer’s dream. The historic Golden Bee pub has been the heart of the community for social gatherings with family and friends for many years. The combined atmosphere of warm woods, mouth-watering menu favorites washed down with a yard of ale, and buoyant ragtime tunes is sure to nostalgically transport any guest back in time! No blocked dates. Please coordinate dates for trip and game with owner. This auction item includes:
• A six-night stay in Colorado Springs; sleeps up to six guests.
• Tickets to any Air Force football game; season starts August 31, 2025. (Skybox and on-field passes. Food & drinks included.)
• Personal Tour of the Colorado Springs Air Force Academy, established in 1954.
• Complimentary tickets up the world’s highest Cog Railway to Pike’s Peak, established in 1891.
Generously donated by Gina & USF Trustee Brian Sharp ‘97, Caritas Committee Members
PRIVATE CHICAGO BOAT TOUR FOR 6 AND DINNER AT RPM OR PIZZA PORTOFINO
Enjoy a private three-hour tour of Chicago’s River aboard a Sea Ray. From your boat pull up to RPM Seafood Chicago OR Pizza Portofino, your choice, and enjoy dinner and drinks. Date in 2025 calendar year to be determined with donors.
Generously donated by Nick D’Arcy, Caritas Committee Member, and Staci & Greg Geistler ‘96
NO PARTY IS A PARTY WITHOUT MEAT FOR 50!
Calling all grillers! If you appreciate quality BBQ, then this is the perfect auction item for you and 49 of your closest friends. Expert smoker Gordon Marsh, Caritas Committee Member, will smoke your choice of beef, pork or brisket at your home and carve the meat for your pleasure. Included will be two delicious sides and rolls. Package is available beginning August 1 through the end of 2025, with a 30-day notice, and excludes major holidays. Perfect for baseball and football season. (Beverages not included.)
Generously donated by Caritas Committee Members Suzie ‘02 & Gordon Marsh and Willie ‘68 & Jay Vidmar
DINNER FOR 8 BY GEORGE JEWELL EVENTS CATERING
George Jewell Events Catering has celebrated over 50 years of service and has been one of Chicago’s most trusted caterers due to their cutting-edge cuisine and seamless execution. This package includes a meal for eight people, served right from your own home, with Jewell catering staff on hand to offer you a unique and gastronomical experience unlike anything you’ve had before! Alcohol is included.
Generously donated by the George Jewell Catering Events team. We also want to recognize that tonight’s meal was made possible because of George Jewell Catering team’s dedication and creativity!
MESSAGES FROM GRATEFUL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
TALIA MESSANA
JUNIOR, NURSING MAJOR, USF VOLLEYBALL PLAYER
“Since stepping foot on campus nearly four years ago, I knew that the University of St. Francis would be a place where I would succeed and grow academically, athletically and personally. The staff, students and community instantly reminded me of my close-knit hometown in the sense that there would always be someone supporting and encouraging me. The education I have received has equipped me with the skills and knowledge I need to pursue my goals, but beyond that, the experiences and relationships I’ve built have truly transformed me. The faculty, staff, and my fellow students have pushed me to think critically, challenge myself, and step outside my comfort zone. I have learned not only from textbooks but also from real-world experiences that have enriched my understanding of the world and my future career. Scholarships have played a crucial role in making this journey possible, allowing me to focus on my studies and take full advantage of the incredible resources available to me. It has allowed me to immerse myself in all that the university has to offer. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity you’ve helped provide, and I carry with me a plethora of lessons and experiences from St. Francis as I move forward in life and my future career.”
KRZYSZTOF NOGA
SENIOR, NURSING MAJOR, USF PEER MINISTER
“Being a first-generation college student at the University of St. Francis has been a remarkable journey that has shaped both my education and my passion for serving others. As a future nurse, my desire to help people drives me each day. Through the many mission trips I have led for the university’s ministry, I’ve witnessed the profound impact of compassion and service. These experiences have deepened my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others through healthcare. The generosity of scholarships provided by USF has been instrumental in making my dreams a reality. Without this support, pursuing my education and passion for nursing would not have been possible. I am sincerely grateful for the guidance, encouragement, and opportunities I have received. It’s my hope to give back to others as much as this university has given to me.”
JAELYNN TAYLOR
JUNIOR, PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR, USF SOFTBALL PLAYER
“Hi there! I am currently a junior at USF and my major is Psychology. Some programs I am a part of are the women’s softball team and the Saints Ambassadors. I chose St. Francis because of the culture and community I found on my visit. The university has shown me how people from all walks of life can come together and form powerful relationships. I didn’t have the same experience at my high school and now that I am here, I have a lot of friends, teachers who care about me and know who I am, and many others there to support me throughout my journey. I am thankful for those who donate to our school and help out numerous programs including the ones I am a part of! Thank you for helping out the university and I hope you have a blessed life!”
LEAH VILLAGOMEZ
FIRST-YEAR, ECONOMICS MAJOR, USF TENNIS PLAYER
“My time as a student at USF has been filled with memories that will live with me forever. I’ve met some of my best friends and have developed connections with faculty members who don’t just talk and grade, but also interact and connect. As a first-year student, I haven’t been here for very long, yet the unwavering support that I have received has made a huge impact on me as a student. It has turned my first year as a college student, which is typically a little stressful, into a time where I can focus on myself and excel at my academics. What has made this process even easier is the scholarship help that I have received from the university. Thanks to the many scholarships that USF has provided to all students, including myself, the weight of financial burden has been lifted because the scholarships help pay off not only tuition but also meals and transportation to and from school. The support that I have received from the University of St.Francis both financially and academically will always be something that I am forever grateful for. But what I am most grateful for are the people that I have met along the way and the experiences that the University of St.Francis has given me.”
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR
Joseph T. Mallof
VICE CHAIR
Steven Hernandez, J.D.
TRUSTEES EMERITI
Carolyn L. Murphy
Patricia Wheeler
PRESIDENTS EMERITI
John C. Orr, Ph.D.
Michael J. Vinciguerra, Ph.D.
Rachael Bartolini
Sr. Jeanne Bessette, OSF, Ed.D.*
Michael Bily
Sr. Sue Bruno, OSF*
Michael Bryant
Tanisha Cannon, Ed.D.
Iman Ellis-Bowen, Ed.D.
Jason Fiske
Shane Green
Sr. Margaret Guider, OSF, STL, Th.D.*
Diane F. Habiger
Scott Holdman
Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D.
April Kubinski, M.S., APRN
Rev. James B. Lewis, O.Carm.
Sr. Roberta A. Naegele, OSF
Victor R. Patterson
John Przybyla
Yesenia Sánchez, Ed.D.
Brian Sharp
Katie Sullivan
Dan Vogen
Chris Ward II
Anthony Zordan, DBA
* Sponsorship Trustee
Proud to support the University of St. Francis and events like the Caritas Scholarship Celebration that make a lasting impact.
