Celebration 42: Boots & Blessings Gala
Buy a Celebration Ticket Now!
For 42 years, Celebration has brought together the Cougar family in a powerful display of faith, generosity, and pride. More than a tradition, this cherished evening reflects the heart of Gross Catholic High School’s mission to form young men and women through academic excellence, faith, and service.
Because of this remarkable community event, tuition remains accessible and more than $1.6 million in tuition assistance is provided each year. This support ensures every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Together we honor our legacy while building a future filled with hope, opportunity, and promise.
Celebration 42: Boots & Blessings Gala Details
This year’s gala, Celebration 42: Boots & Blessings, takes place on April 24 at the Beardmore Event Center in Bellevue. This special evening brings together alumni, parents, families, and friends to support the mission of Gross Catholic High School while enjoying a night of faith, fellowship, and fun.
Guests will enjoy entertainment from mentalist The Amazing Arthur Fratelli, recognition of our Distinguished Alumni and the new Cougar Spirit Awards, and special musical performances by Nashville artist and singer-songwriter Hannah McNeil, Class of 1991.
VIP guests and sponsor tables will enjoy early access to a premium hosted open bar for the entirety of the evening. General admission guests will enjoy a premium hosted open bar during happy hour, followed by hosted wine, beer, and seltzers once the program begins.
Dress the part — think polished boots, statement hats, and elevated denim. Western flair is encouraged, tennis shoes are not.
Tickets are required for event admission. To sponsor or advertise, contact Julie Cortinas at advancement@gcgmail.org.
Buy a Gold Cup Raffle Ticket and Make a Difference
Buy a Gold Cup Ticket Now!
One of the most exciting ways to support Gross Catholic is through the Gold Cup Raffle — an annual raffle that helps close the gap between tuition and the true cost of education. This year’s ticket prices are lower than ever, making it easier for everyone in the Cougar community to participate.
Buy your ticket before March 24 at 11:59 PM to qualify for the Early Bird drawing on March 25. You do not need to be present to win. Students who participate can also earn special incentives. The grand prize and all other winners will be drawn at the Boots & Blessings Gala on April 24. Note that raffle tickets do not grant admission to Celebration.
A Message from Our Chair Couple
As proud alumni and parents, our chair committee invites you to be part of this meaningful event. Your support directly benefits our students, families, and teachers and helps sustain the faith and family-centered community that defines Gross Catholic.
We hope you will join us for an evening that celebrates our past, strengthens our present, and invests in the future of every Cougar.
Dux Esto,
Abby and James Skradski ’98, Chair Couple, Current Parents Emily and John Blunck, Co-Chair, Current Parents Elizabeth and Trevor Kroll, Co-Chair, Current Parents Shannon ’00 and Jim Kristl ’00, Co-Chair, Current Parents
Event Coordinator: Julie Cortinas | advancement@gcgmail.org
Other Ways to Get Involved
Follow & Share Keep up with event details and exciting updates on Facebook.
Refer a Business Partner. We are currently seeking businesses interested in partnering with us through sponsorship opportunities and silent auction donations. Email: advancement@gcgmail.org
View Sponsorship Benefits & Opportunities
Volunteer and Get Involved
Volunteers play a key role in making Celebration a success every year. We encourage you to get involved and sign up to volunteer at Celebration. Contact Julie Cortinas at advancement@gcgmail.org to sign up.
Keeping Catholic Education Strong
Together, the Cougar family keeps Catholic education strong in Omaha, Bellevue, and Papillion. Join this long-standing tradition and support Gross Catholic students by purchasing your Celebration ticket, grabbing a Gold Cup raffle ticket, or becoming a sponsor today.
Questions? Contact Julie Cortinas at advancement@gcgmail.org.
About Gross Catholic High School
Gross Catholic, a co-educational, college preparatory high school, began its proud heritage of academic excellence rooted in the Marianist tradition in 1968. We consider ourselves one of the best Catholic schools in Omaha, Bellevue, and Papillion. The school motto Dux Esto (“Be a Leader”) is at the core of its extraordinary mission, innovative spirit, and fundamental values. The school offers a challenging environment and outstanding quality of life, both in academics and co-curricular activities, with a strong focus on STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) education. The spirit of Christian service and giving back is part of everything the school does. Gross Catholic’s top-tier status is reflected in its talented faculty, staff, and coaches who take great pride in seeing virtually every graduate head to college, often to the most prestigious domestic and international universities and service academies. Together with families and alumni, Gross Catholic forges relationships for a lifetime, helping to ready the next generation to be exemplary, principled leaders of the world.
To discover the Gross Catholic difference, contact us at 402.734.2000 or visit our Admissions page.