2024 Gala HonoreeIt is our pleasure and privilege to announce Joan O'Leary as our 2024 Gala Honoree for the St. Anne School Foundation's 25th Anniversary Let it Shine Gala. We take this opportunity to honor Joan and to recognize her service and commitment to the children and families of St. Anne Catholic School and Catholic education.
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Joan O'Leary, A St. Anne Catholic Community Pioneer
Joan O'Leary, a distinguished alumna of St. Anne Catholic School, has left an indelible mark through her unwavering commitment and dedication. A lifelong parishioner and devoted volunteer for the St. Anne Catholic Community, Joan's journey with the school took a transformative turn in 1982 when she, along with six other visionary individuals, founded the St. Anne School Foundation. It all began when she volunteered to assist the pastor for a week and has been the pastoral assistant ever since and coordinated marriage prep, weddings, funerals, new parishioner orientation and serving as Eucharistic Minister, Lector and Altar Society Member.
As a founder, Joan played a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation's mission and vision. Her passion for the school and its community was evident from the outset. In 1983, she spearheaded the Foundation's inaugural fundraising campaign, setting the stage for what would become an enduring legacy of philanthropy. Shortly thereafter, Joan orchestrated the first Gala in 1985, an event that would become a cornerstone of the foundation's efforts to support the school.
Joan's impact was nothing short of extraordinary. In the Foundation's first two months, she raised more funds than the school had accumulated in its entire 50+ year history. Her visionary leadership and fundraising prowess set a new standard for philanthropy within the St. Anne Catholic Community.
Her commitment to the Foundation deepened during her tenure as President from 1998 to 2003. Under her guidance, scholarships and annual grants to the school experienced significant growth, ensuring that more students had access to quality Catholic education. Joan's leadership not only transformed the financial landscape of the foundation but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among its supporters.
With the passing of her beloved husband, George, Joan found solace in honoring his memory through the St. Anne School Foundation. She designated the Foundation's scholarship for memorial gifts, leading to a remarkable 41% increase in funds. Additionally, Joan and George established a scholarship fund recognizing students for excellence in leadership, a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift students today.
She was also one of three founders of the St. Anne Guild in 1984. As its first president, she immediately launched the organization's fundraising efforts focused on student scholarships and parish needs. She continues to serve on the Guild's Board. People often say "she is hard to say no to."
Amongst her many accomplishments at St. Anne, she also was an outstanding member of the larger Houston community as founder of Amazing Place, United Church Athletic League (UCAL) and Christian Community Service Center. In her spare time, she used her outstanding talents to serve at River Oaks Garden Club and the Pan American Round Table of Houston.
Joan O'Leary's journey with the St. Anne School Foundation is a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and community spirit. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives touched by the scholarships and support she championed, embodying the true spirit of service and commitment to Catholic education.
Click on the image below to make a donation in honor of Joan O'Leary.
As a founder, Joan played a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation's mission and vision. Her passion for the school and its community was evident from the outset. In 1983, she spearheaded the Foundation's inaugural fundraising campaign, setting the stage for what would become an enduring legacy of philanthropy. Shortly thereafter, Joan orchestrated the first Gala in 1985, an event that would become a cornerstone of the foundation's efforts to support the school.
Joan's impact was nothing short of extraordinary. In the Foundation's first two months, she raised more funds than the school had accumulated in its entire 50+ year history. Her visionary leadership and fundraising prowess set a new standard for philanthropy within the St. Anne Catholic Community.
Her commitment to the Foundation deepened during her tenure as President from 1998 to 2003. Under her guidance, scholarships and annual grants to the school experienced significant growth, ensuring that more students had access to quality Catholic education. Joan's leadership not only transformed the financial landscape of the foundation but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose among its supporters.
With the passing of her beloved husband, George, Joan found solace in honoring his memory through the St. Anne School Foundation. She designated the Foundation's scholarship for memorial gifts, leading to a remarkable 41% increase in funds. Additionally, Joan and George established a scholarship fund recognizing students for excellence in leadership, a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift students today.
She was also one of three founders of the St. Anne Guild in 1984. As its first president, she immediately launched the organization's fundraising efforts focused on student scholarships and parish needs. She continues to serve on the Guild's Board. People often say "she is hard to say no to."
Amongst her many accomplishments at St. Anne, she also was an outstanding member of the larger Houston community as founder of Amazing Place, United Church Athletic League (UCAL) and Christian Community Service Center. In her spare time, she used her outstanding talents to serve at River Oaks Garden Club and the Pan American Round Table of Houston.
Joan O'Leary's journey with the St. Anne School Foundation is a testament to the transformative power of passion, dedication, and community spirit. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives touched by the scholarships and support she championed, embodying the true spirit of service and commitment to Catholic education.
Click on the image below to make a donation in honor of Joan O'Leary.
