Each year since 1993, the Board of Trustees of Immaculata Academy has held its annual gala to honor deserving community members with its prestigious Mater Christi Award. The 16th annual Mater Christi Award Gala was held on Thursday, October 2 at Michael’s Banquet Facility in Hamburg.
Thanks to the generosity of community leaders and friends of the school, more than $130,000 was raised at the event. The proceeds benefit current and future students of Immaculata Academy through scholarships, tuition assistance and academic programs. A record 570+ community leaders, alumnae and friends attended the evening.
During the event, sponsored by Ogorek Wealth Management, LLC, the school honored individuals with its prestigious Mater Christi Award. This event annually celebrates Mary, the patroness of Immaculata Academy and recognizes those whose lives exemplify the meaning of outstanding persona commitment and contribution to Catholic education and the community. The year’s recipients included Debra A. Colley ‘IA, Dan Gernatt, Jr., Karen Karalus Karamanoukian ‘IA, and Dr. & Mrs. Peter and Mary Ann Starkey.
“The record setting attendance and donations raised by this year’s event displays the community’s commitment to Immaculata Academy,” said Sister Lynne Anne Schimminger FSSJ, president of Immaculata Academy. “So many of our students have benefited from this event and the support of an entire community. The Academy is truly grateful.”
Patrick and Ann Heraty, along with Mark and Linda Hooper will serve as co chairs for the 16th annual Mater Christi Award Gala on October 2 in Michael’s Banquet Facility.
Patrick Heraty has worked at Hilbert College in Hamburg since 1978, where he has held a variety of academic and administrative positions. As a business professor, he teaches courses in Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Management. In 1989, he was awarded Hilbert College’s highest honor, the President’s Medal, for demonstrating outstanding contribution to student life.
Ann Heraty worked in the Lake Shore Central School District at Highland Elementary as their reading specialist since 1967, before retiring last year. She has also served as president of the Evans Business and Professional Organization.
The Heratys are active parishioners at St. Bernadette’s in Orchard Park and have served as parish council presidents. Ann has also served as president of the school advisory board and currently serves on the Journey of Faith and Grace committee. Ann and Patrick have both taught religious education at St. Bernadette’s.
Deacon Mark Hooper is a registered professional engineer employed with National Fuel Gas for 27 years. He was ordained a Permanent Deacon in 2000 and assigned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help and South Buffalo Mercy Hospital. His past activities include Immaculata Academy Parent Guild Members (and Past Co-President), St. Francis Justinian Auction Co-Chairs, St. Francis High School Parent Guild Board Members, and Parish MISSION Leaders. Mark also serves on the Boards of Directors for Dig Safely New York and Pennsylvania One Call System.
Linda has worked as the secretary at Our Lady of Perpetual Help since 1996. She is a member of the Permanent Diaconate Team and Facilitator, and also serves as a Eucharistic Minister.
Mark and Linda have been members of Our Lady of Perpetual Help since 1990.
