CUES celebrated the 40th anniversary of The Gathering on April 9, bringing together donors, school leaders, alumni, families, and community partners for an evening dedicated to students at All Saints, Holy Name, and Sacred Heart.
The milestone event generated a record $1.14 million to support CUES Schools, making it one of the most successful Gatherings in the organization’s history. Funds raised through the event help provide faith-based education, student and family support services, mental health counseling, behavioral health resources, and long-term academic support for more than 600 students served by CUES.
This year’s theme, “CUES…A Masterful Tradition Unlike Any Other,” honored four decades of generosity and community commitment. The evening was chaired by Jeanie Jones, with Lynn and Gerald Timmerman serving as honorary chairs. Nikki Boulay served as mistress of ceremonies.
A highlight of the evening was keynote speaker Obadiah Laa, a 2020 graduate of All Saints Catholic School and current sophomore at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business. Laa shared how his CUES education helped shape his path from All Saints to Mount Michael Benedictine High School and now to Creighton, where he is majoring in finance and preparing for a career in investment banking.
“The Gathering is always a powerful reminder of what this community can do when it comes together for students and families,” said Chris Bauer, Chief Development Officer for CUES Fund. “To celebrate 40 years and raise a record $1.14 million is an incredible statement of support for CUES Schools. We are deeply grateful to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, and guest who helped make this possible.”
For 40 years, The Gathering has served as CUES signature fundraising event, helping sustain the mission of providing quality, faith-based education and comprehensive support to students and families. That support remains essential. At CUES, 100% of students qualify for free or reduced meals, and the schools continue to provide a whole-child model that supports academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.
The success of this year’s event reflects the generosity of the CUES community and its continued belief in the potential of every student.
“CUES students are bright, capable, and full of promise,” Bauer said. “The Gathering helps ensure they have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to learn, grow, and pursue bright futures.”
CUES extends its gratitude to the 2026 event chairs, honorary chairs, sponsors, auction donors, volunteers, guests, and all who helped make the 40th Gathering a record-setting celebration in support of All Saints, Holy Name, and Sacred Heart.
