Mardi Gras in May?! Why Not — University Gala Goes All Out, Raises $1.65 Mil

Giselle Dodge and Gwen Juarez
Mardi Gras in May?! Why Not — University Gala Goes All Out, Raises $1.65 Mil

The Bunk Johnson Brazz Band

THE PACE OF vaccinations in February couldn't quite make Mardi Gras feel "normal" this year, but that didn't stop the University of St. Thomas from throwing its popular annual bash — in May!


UST's 71st Mardi Gras Gala took place at the Hilton Americas ballroom, where more than 600 guests — decked out in beads, boas and jewel tones galore — gathered, ready for in-person mixing and mingling! The evening not only honored UST life director David E. Harvey, Jr. for his commitment to the school and its students, it also crowned two students as the Mardi Gras king and queen, Youssef Ahmed and Margaret Gaston, who live out the university's values of goodness, discipline and knowledge.

Dinner was, naturally, creative Cajun fare a la crawfish bisque en croute, blackened free-range chicken with black-truffle bordelaise, remoulade-topped crab beignets, and garlic-roasted Gulf prawns with thyme beurre-blanc.

The night featured live music from the Bunk Johnson Brazz Band, who led party-goers in a second-line-style celebration following dinner — with a tux-clad UST mascot Lenny the Lion bringing up the rear. And Motown-style vocal quartet The Four Tops kept everyone on their feet, inspiring guests with their synchronized dances and big-band sound.

Thanks in part to an exciting live auction — featuring items like a private quail hunt on the Cullen ranch and a poker night at the Basilian Father's residence — the gala raised a whopping $1.65 million. The proceeds will benefit UST's scholarship fund, per usual, and this year will also go to CeltCare, an emergency fund newly put in place to assist those experiencing pandemic-related hardships.

Danny McCormack, Jessy Deardurff, Kaitlyn Scheurich Karen Wilkinson

Richard & Melynda Ludwick

Natasha Nguyenphat

Bob & Gayle Longmire

Jerry & Janice Swonke, Judith Raines, Dave Kem

Juan Bravo

Joe & Kriste Aulbert

Mikki Hebl,David Harvey,Dr. Richard Ludwick, Melynda Ludwick

Rey and Montrice Wilson

Parties
Leadership in Action: CEO Theresa Roemer Credits Mother, Mentors and Mindset for Accomplishments

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Snacks and apps at 1891 (photo by Andrew Hemingway)

WE ARE A couple weeks out from Super Bowl LIX, and it's not too early to be thinking about parties, food, and party food. We rounded up some of the most unique and bang-for-your-buck eats to make the event memorable.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

THE BARNES & NOBLE in Town & Country Village has been closed since February 2024, but on Wednesday, Jan. 29, it reopens with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and book-signing.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment