Stamford, CT — April 15, 2026 — Foundations in Education hosted its annual Gala on April 15th at Woodway Country Club, bringing together community leaders, educators, supporters and clergy, led by His Excellency, Bishop Frank Caggiano to celebrate and advance the mission of Catholic education.
The evening recognized three distinguished honorees for their outstanding commitment and contributions to educational excellence. Honored at this year’s event were Pat Brady, Head of School at Catholic Academy of Stamford; Terry O’Connor, Board Chair of Kolbe Cathedral Preparatory School; and Invest In Education Foundation, with Bob Flanigan accepting the honor on the foundation’s behalf. The Invest in Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational choice and improving K-12 education access across the United States.
Each honoree was celebrated for their leadership, dedication, and meaningful impact on students and school communities. Their work exemplifies the mission of Foundations in Education to provide access to quality, values-based education for all.
Seventh grade, St. James School student, Leo, served as this year’s student speaker, sharing his gratitude for the opportunities his Catholic education has provided and expressing his hope to one day pay it forward.
The program also highlighted the voices and talents of students whose lives have been shaped by Catholic education. Students from Kolbe Cathedral Preparatory School performed a selection of songs during the evening, joined by the Pro Players Group, adding a memorable musical element to the program.
The evening’s live auction, Leaders of Tomorrow and Paddle Raise was led by Pat Tully, whose energy helped drive strong engagement and support from attendees. A $50,000 matching grant challenge from the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation further inspired giving, contributing to a successful fundraising total of over $1.3 million in support of scholarships and educational initiatives. This will result in Foundations in Education being able to grant over 100 Leaders of Tomorrow grants to eligible students in the 2026-27 school year.
A special thank you to our Chairman sponsor, Tom and Paula McInerney and our Champion Sponsors, Fairfield University, Barbara and Peter Ripp, Chris and Lorraine Wilson, Barbara and Brad Evans, George Landegger and Frank and Marisa Martire. A special thank you also to our Patron sponsors, Mutual of America, the O’Herron Family Foundation; and Rebecca and Michael Shea; along with our Corporate Partners, the Diocese of Bridgeport; Edgewood Capital Advisors; Fairfield College Preparatory School; Kudlow & Co., LLC; M&T Bank; Deborah & Joe Matthews; Kate & Robert Niehaus; Lisa and Joe Purcell; and Saint Thomas More Parish. Thank you all for your unwavering support and commitment.
The Gala featured an elegant dinner, program, and opportunities for guests to support scholarships and initiatives that benefit students across the region. Proceeds from the event will directly support Foundations in Education’s ongoing efforts to expand access to Catholic education.
“We are proud to recognize individuals and organizations whose commitment strengthens our schools and supports student success,” said a representative from Foundations in Education. “Their leadership inspires our community and helps ensure a bright future for the next generation.”
For more information about Foundations in Education and its mission, please visit www.foundationsineducation.org
