Sláinte! University Goes Green, Celebrates Program's Emerald Anny with Irish-Themed Gala

Daniel Ortiz
Sláinte! University Goes Green, Celebrates Program's Emerald Anny with Irish-Themed Gala

David Kem and Judith Raines, Michele Malloy, and Lori Gallagher

THE UNIVERSITY OF St. Thomas has a lot to be thankful for this season — especially given the success of its recent gala at The Houstonian, benefiting its William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies.


The Center toasted its 20th, or "emerald," anniversary, so naturally, chairs Judith Raines and Dave Kem selected beautiful hues of green to adorn the ballroom for the occasion. Here, nearly 300 supporters raised more than $330,000, which will go to the Center's study abroad opportunities and student scholarships. The Consul General of Ireland, Robert Hull, was the guest of honor.

The evening included a gourmet dinner and an all-in-good-fun "roast and toast" of former UST Board Chair Michele Malloy, a champion of Irish studies and culture, followed by a live auction with items like a luxury cruise from Dublin to London. There was also a performance by the Clann Kelly Dancers from the Clann Kelly School of Irish Dance in Houston.

UST's William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies is a top-10 Irish Studies program, and is named for the former chairman of Mutual of America Life Insurance Company in honor of his outstanding contributions to the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

Peggy and Hugh Idstein

Michele Malloy, David Harvey, and Gloria Portela

Raye White and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro

Consul General of Ireland Robert Hull

Angie and Michael Marcon, Melynda and Richard Ludwick, Jeffrey and Kiki Carroll

Lisa Malosky

Madelyn and George Farris

Curtis Huff and Bob Corrigan

Parties
Leadership in Action: For Bianca Bucaram, ‘Strong Network and Family’ Are Essential

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music

Get to Know Bianca:

Bianca Bucaram, founder of The Bucaram PR Group and BXM Music, is a dynamic force in the public relations industry. She is known for her tenacity, empathy, and bilingual communication skills. As a local publicist with national reach, she blends local insights with broader impact, telling compelling stories that foster business growth and create opportunities.

Keep Reading Show less

Buddy & Kylie Carruth, Margaret & Jay Magness

A RECORD 486 party animals donned their most boo-tiful and spookiest costumes to celebrate the Houston SPCA’s 100th anniversary at its annual Howl-O-Ween Ball.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties

Buttermilk Baby

WANT TO FEEL like a kid again? Fall into these fun and spooky eats and drinks, win a costume contest, and indulge in seasonal sweets!

Keep Reading Show less
Food