On Sunday, December 8, The TCSF celebrated its’ 30th anniversary with friends, patrons and supporters at the Cathedral Center near downtown Tyler.
Starting the evening on a festive note, T. K. Gorman student string ensemble performed as Gorman student ambassadors welcomed over 180 guests and benefactors.
Guest of honor and founder, Monsignor Milam Joseph, was warmly embraced by past parishioners, friends and clergy at the reception preceding the dinner.
Bishop Joseph Strickland and Bishop Edmond Carmody were both in attendance to greet supporters and invitees. Following welcoming remarks from TCSF Board member Rick Rayford, the St. Gregory Cathedral School Choir sang the invocation.
Collin Maloney, President-Elect, briefly illustrated the 30 years history, mission and goals of the Foundation, as he reminded the audience of his own Catholic school experience.
To everyone’s delight, students Rebecca Bowles (Gorman) and Joseph Benedict (St. Gregory) each delivered a heartfelt and inspiring address “What a Catholic education means to me.” Guests later described the remarks as “a timely reminder of the importance of supporting our two outstanding Catholic schools.”
Later in the program, Monsignor Joseph described these two students, representatives of our Catholic Schools, as filled with “awe” and “wonder” and our “greatest hope for the future.” Monsignor Joseph was honored with a Crystal Madonna in recognition of his beloved mother, Anne Joseph. A Crystal Madonna is awarded annually to completed scholarships at $25,000.
Additionally, Madonna’s were awarded to Kelli and Danny Jackman, in honor of the Jackman Family Scholarship, Bishop Edmond Carmody, in recognition of the Bishop Carmody Scholarship and Bishop Joseph Strickland, in honor of the Bishop Strickland Scholarship.
The Foundation wishes to thank all our generous 30th Anniversary underwriters and guests.