Saint Martin’s University in Lacey, Wash., continues to provide access to postsecondary education by raising millions for student scholarships at its annual fundraising gala. On November 4, the Saint Martin's Gala will feature three celebrity guests: Seattle-based chefs Tom Douglas; Thierry Rautureau, also known as The Chef in the Hat™; and Italian butcher Dario Cecchini.

“The Saint Martin’s Gala is the perfect combination of our Catholic Benedictine value of hospitality and the university community’s passion for supporting our students,” said Vice President of Institutional Advancement Shad Hanselman. “With the help of our celebrity guests and generous donors, we raise millions of dollars in scholarship support which makes a significant difference in the lives of our students.”

Last year’s Gala welcomed more than 600 alumni and friends and raised a record-breaking $3 million for scholarships. In 2011, Saint Martin’s launched its first black-tie Gala featuring celebrity chef entertainment; live cooking demonstrations; five-course, wine-paired meal; and live and silent auctions.  That first year, the University welcomed Celebrity Chef Mario Batali and raised more than $600,000. Saint Martin’s has brought many celebrity chefs to Lacey for this event: Guy Fieri, Jacques and Claudine Pépin, Anne Burrell, Ming Tsai, and more. Since its inception, the Gala has become a premier culinary event in the South Sound. 

Saint Martin’s has a diverse student body with 38% being the first in their family to attend a university and 32% receiving the federal Pell Grant. Money raised at the Gala contributes directly to the financial aid package offered to students demonstrating financial need.

To learn more about the Saint Martin’s Gala or purchase tickets to attend, visit www.stmartin.edu/gala or contact the University at [email protected] or 360-438-4366.