St. Agnes Academy Legacy Gala and Auction Saturday, February 23, 2008 St. Agnes Academy gets groovy at annual gala, auction Alumnae family honored for their years of service, dedication to alma mater (February 27, 2008 - HOUSTON) --- With a little "Help!" from parents, alumnae and friends St. Agnes Academy raised $450,000 at the "Magical Mystery Tour" Legacy Gala and Auction Feb. 23 at the Hilton Americas Houston. "What an amazing night for St. Agnes Academy," said Head of School Sr. Jane Meyer, O.P. '57. "We are thrilled to have so many people come out and support our mission to educate Houston-area young women in the Dominican tradition. We are happy to honor the Standish family - true examples of Veritas for their generous spirit of faith and service." The Standish Family received the school's 2008 Dominican Spirit Award. Three generations of Standish women are St. Agnes graduates and were honored for their service, dedication and support of their alma mater. Elizabeth Rhein Standish '35 began her family's St. Agnes legacy for her daughters and granddaughters who also are alumnae, and celebrated her 90th birthday at the Gala. The family's long tradition of service to St. Agnes continued with Tom Standish as he served on the school's Board of Directors from 1995 to 1998. Daughter Bridget Standish Staudt '72 was a St. Agnes teacher and coach in 1978. During her tenure, she led the school's volleyball team to two state championships. Service to St. Agnes continues in the family's the third generation as both Diana Stout Pearson '98 and Jennifer Standish Wilhelm '99 serve on the St. Agnes Alumnae Board. The Dominican Spirit Award illustrates the faith and visionary leadership of the Dominican Sisters who founded the Academy in 1906. Today, the award is bestowed to an individual or organization that carries on the tradition of the Dominican Sisters by paving the way for St. Agnes now and for the next 100 years. Chairing this year's "Magical Mystery Tour" Legacy Gala and Auction in support of the school's continuing endeavors were current parents Brenda and Tom Koch. Helping the evening come together were: Silent Auction co-chair Regina Lewis '76 and Dinner and dancing were part of evening's festivities, and entertainment included a performance by the school's Remix Dance Team and music by the Beatles'-inspired band, The Fab 5. All gala proceeds support St. Agnes operating costs. Fund raisers conducted throughout the year maintain the mission of the Dominican Sisters of Houston by helping to keep tuition costs affordable for the school's diverse student population. For more information, please call Mary Louise Berry, Special Events Coordinator at (713) 219-5401 or email mlberry@st-agnes.org