The 30th Annual SAA and SDS Gala & Auction

Whether you choose to bid on the online, silent, or live auction items – the Annual Gala & Auction always has something for everyone! And this year was no exception – The 30^th annual Gala, which took place Friday, April 14, was an outstanding success raising over $230,000 for our school.  Almost 400 guests attended the elegant party at the FedEx Center. If you couldn’t be there - it’s not too late to still participate – the online auction opens today. 

Over the past 30 years, the Gala has raised over $3 Million to assist in funding the day-to-day operations of our school. This success had been made possible by the generosity of our families, alumni and community members who so willingly support the Gala, volunteer their time, donate items, assist with gathering donations and all the other important details that go into planning an event of this magnitude!

Director of Development, Brooke Hamilton, shared ““The SAA and SDS Community is composed of so many giving and generous families that all work together to support our mission and implement our values. This annual event is a time to come together and celebrate, and work together for a common goal. Every little bit helps us to meet our fundraising goal each year and ensures that our students, faculty, and programs are fully funded for an optimal student experience.”

One of the most exciting parts of the Gala is the “Raise the Paddle” portion of the night, where our guests unite to “Fund a Need” that the school has identified. All contributions made towards Fund a Need are earmarked and only used for that specific purpose. While the purchases made during the Gala are not tax-deductible, the Raise the Paddle gifts are. They are simply donations to the school, and every dollar counts!

Over the years, these contributions have covered the expense of everything from new theatre curtains to enhanced teacher workrooms. This year, Fund the Need’s focus was to add another layer to school security. SAA and SDS seek to add a film that will reinforce glass on campus doors and windows. The goal is to have this reinforced glass film installed during the summer of 2023. Almost $50,000 was raised at Gala toward this project and there is still time to give!

Holli Kenney, VP of Development, was overwhelmed by the success of this year’s event. She shared, “Our Development team put together an amazing 30th Anniversary Gala & Auction last Friday night! Through the hard work of Brooke Hamilton, Liz Barksdale, and Tami Shepard, we had a record-breaking fundraising night for our school. I am so appreciative of everyone who attended and volunteered. I am proud to be a part of this supportive and devoted community.”

To donate to the Fund the Need drive or to bid on the online auction items please visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/uGq/