The atmosphere was celestial — dark paneled draping with strings of bulbs, glittered bowls with twinkling lights, cocktails pun-named “gin-terstellar & tonic” and “mars-garita,” star stickers earned for visiting students’ exhibits. It was a truly “An Interstellar Celebration” of the 5th Annual Dr. Audrey Evans Scholarship Benefit at The Union League of Philadelphia on June 4th.
More than 300 guests — our largest gathering yet! — celebrated St. James School, learned about our integrated curriculum infused with science and technology, and recognized three honorees: Jay and Jo Ann Townsend, Derrick H. Pitts, Chief Astronomer, The Franklin Institute, and The People of St. Christopher’s Church, Gladwyne, including The Rev. Dr. Hillary Raining.
Many guests interacted with student scientists who gave hands-on demonstrations about the scientific method and modeled meteorite collisions. Many also heard from members of our engineering club about their projects, such as robotics and coding.
Graduates of St. James School who are now in high school or embarking on post-secondary education mingled with guests and sold items made by hand in the Alumni Woodshop.
The evening’s program started with seven diverse voices, each saying why “I am St. James School.” We heard from event namesake and St. James co-founder Dr. Audrey Evans, who celebrated her 94th birthday this year and continues to be an advocate for our school.
Other “stars” included Tynae Drain, Class of 2016, who again served as MC. She shared how her whole family has benefited from St. James. Her younger brothers, Tyjiere and Tineef, are graduating from the 8th grade and a member of the first-ever 4th grade, respectively.
Last but not least, co-founder Father Sean Mullen led the live auction; over 70 donors pledged gifts towards scholarships, anywhere from $100 to $30,000. In total, the event raised $272,567 (to be exact) for scholarships — providing a holistic education to 9 students!
Thanks to all who made this possible; we couldn’t have done this without you! It was a stellar evening and an out-of-this-world success!
