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APRIL 15, 2023
WELCOME TO THE
MISSION STATEMENT
As a Catholic university rooted in the liberal arts, we are a welcoming community of learners challenged by Franciscan values and charism, engaged in a continuous pursuit of knowledge, faith, wisdom and justice, and ever mindful of a tradition that emphasizes reverence for creation, compassion, and peacemaking. We strive for academic excellence in all programs, preparing women and men to contribute to the world through service and leadership. University of St. Francis was founded and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
The University of St. Francis was founded and is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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WELCOME PROGRAM DINNER MENU CARITAS COMMITTEE GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT BOARD CHAIRPERSON’S WELCOME WITH GREETINGS FROM USF LEADERSHIP SPONSORS RAFFLE SILENT AUCTION LIVE AUCTION STUDENT MESSAGES BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 12 13 20 28 29
WELCOME TO THE BENEFITING UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS STUDENTS
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PROGRAM
MUSICAL INTERLUDE
University of St. Francis
Jazz Ensemble
WELCOME
Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D.
USF President
MISTRESS OF CEREMONIES
Sarah Deffenbaugh Senior English & Language Arts Major with Secondary Education Certification
INVOCATION
Sr. Jeanne Bessette, OSF President, Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate
DINNER
LIVE AUCTION
PADDLE RAISE
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT RAFFLE
Drawing at 10 p.m.
DANCING
Green Fourteen Band
SILENT AUCTION
Until 10:30 p.m.
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Floral arrangements created by Dennis Kovar ’85
Videos produced by Great Lakes Media - Jessica ’05 & Brendan Walsh ’05
Photos taken by Wayne
McNair Photography at waynemcnair.com
Jewell Events Catering
D2B - Mike Ferraro
Hall’s Rental Service, Inc.
Satin Chair
J.P.W. Productions
Joliet Tent
Green Fourteen
Walker Auctions
David Nelson Exquisite Jewelry
WJOL Radio
Quest Food Management Services
Ricoh
Entire USF Community:
USF Athletics
USF Business Office
USF IT
USF Jazz Band
USF Maintenance
USF Marketing Services
USF Saints Ambassadors
USF Safety & Security
USF Volunteers
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THIS EVENING’S MENU
SIGNATURE DRINK
Prosecco & Pomegranate Sparkler
PASSED HORS D‘OEUVRES
Goat Cheese Cucumber BLT Bites
Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes
Shrimp in Spiral Puff Pastry
Petite Brie and Apricot Tartlets
FIRST COURSE
Bosc Pear, Candied Walnuts, Goat Cheese and Frizzled Beets
Gourmet Greens and Port Wine Vinaigrette
Gourmet Bread Basket
MAIN ENTRÉE
Herb-Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine Demi-Glace paired with Tuscan Marinated Roasted Chicken Breast with Red Wine & Oregano Vinaigrette
DESSERT
Almond Apple Tartlett
All Butter Shortbread Dough, Almond Cream and Apples
Cinnamon Whipped Cream and Caramel Sauce
Coffee and Tea Service
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CARITAS COMMITTEE
HOSTS
Anne & USF President Arvid Johnson
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Tosh Anderson
Rosie & Cesar Cardenas
Michelle ’09, ’10, ’20 & Terry Cottrell ’99, ’03
Jeanette D’Arcy ’49
Nick D’Arcy
Sue & Terry D’Arcy
Iman Ellis-Bowen ’20 & Duane Bowen
Patty Gonzalez ’19 & Jay Barriga
Shane Green ’97
Jen & Vic Howard
Kevin Howard ’07
Annette Jelinek
Kaity & Jeff Kohl
Suzi ’02 & Gordon Marsh
Frances Naal ’58
Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio
Ann ’80 & Steve Randich ’79
Candice Rosen ’88
Ann & Jeffrey Rzasa ’96
Scott Savage ’21
Jodi ’96, ’02 & Scott Schager
Gina & Brian Sharp ’97, ’01
Maggie Sillar
Catherine & Michael Stowe
Wilhelmine ’68 & John Vidmar
Tracey ’92 & Dan Vogen ’93
Theresa Dollinger Waldron & Jon Waldron
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GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Friends,
My wife, Anne, and I would like to formally welcome you to the 66th Caritas Scholarship Celebration. After an extended intermission, we are grateful to return to an in-person format on our beautiful campus. Caritas is a powerful experience to realize the impact of your philanthropy on our students. As always, our student ambassadors will help to host our event and look forward to sharing first-hand their experiences and outcomes with each of you.
USF PRESIDENT
A special shout-out of gratitude to our St. Francis-level presenting sponsor, D’Arcy Buick GMC, as well as Wintrust Financial and our many other sponsors. Every single gift provides the University of St. Francis with the ability to make a high-quality, Catholic, Franciscan education affordable for our students. We are truly blessed for each and every person who contributes—including the wonderful members of our Caritas Committee, who have worked tirelessly to make tonight possible.
Enjoy the evening and know how important your support is to our building a Franciscan future… together, in our second century.
Pace e Bene,
ARVID C. JOHNSON, PH.D. PRESIDENT
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BOARD CHAIRPERSON’S WELCOME
My Fellow Caritas Supporters,
On behalf of the University of St. Francis Board of Trustees, my sincere thanks for supporting the 66th Caritas Scholarship Celebration.
Your contributions ensure this great university continues to offer a quality Franciscan education to students from all walks of life.
A special thanks to the Caritas Committee and sponsors for their continued commitment to the gift of scholarship. Together we are strong, together we are the University of St. Francis.
Peace and all good to USF.
JOE MALLOF CHAIR, USF BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR OF THE USF BOARD OF TRUSTEES
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GREETINGS FROM UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
Dear Caritas Friends,
Welcome to the 66th Caritas Scholarship Celebration. We are blessed to have you with us in person or in spirit.
The University of St. Francis is grateful for our Caritas Committee, supporters and all of the Saints Ambassadors that have come together to support our tradition of this great university. Thank you for creating opportunity in the lives of our students, future students and their families.
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
Together, we are St. Francis!
LISA SAMPALIS VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
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GREETINGS FROM STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen,
I would like to first start by saying how much I appreciate and thank each and every one of you for attending the University of St. Francis Caritas Scholarship Celebration. We are immensely grateful and blessed to gather together to highlight USF and everyone who has generously helped make this wonderful event a success. We really could not have done it without you!
As a senior here at St. Francis, I will say the past four years have only shown me how great of a decision I made coming here. This university has given me endless opportunities to grow, both as a student and an individual. The community here fosters a supportive and family-like environment that has given me lifelong friendships and mentors.
My scholarships, created through Caritas, have played a huge part in alleviating family stress and granted me financial stability and independence. This solace not only helped me but so many others as we continue our education and grow into instrumental and compassionate leaders of society.
On behalf of the all University of St. Francis students, thank you again so much for your kindness and charity.
PRESIDENT, STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
SGA PRESIDENT
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THANK YOU TO THE GENEROUS SPONSORS WHO SUPPORT UNIVERSITY OF ST. FRANCIS STUDENTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS THROUGH THE CARITAS SCHOLARSHIP CELEBRATION!
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ST. FRANCIS SPONSOR
ST. CLARE SPONSOR
BROWN & GOLD SPONSORS SAINT SPONSORS
Gloria & Ed Dollinger
Diane & Bill Habiger
Donna & John Przybyla
Sentinus Wealth Management - Steph & Tyler Qualio
BERNIE SPONSORS
Barnes & Noble Bookseller
Busey Bank
Crowther Roofing & Sheet Metal, Inc.
First Secure Community Bank – Lori & Jay Bergman
Cheryl & Kevin McCarthy
Quest Food Management Services
Ann & Steve Randich
Stephanie & Daniel Streitz
Tracey & Daniel Vogen
Patricia & Robert Wheeler
FRIENDS SPONSORS
Regina & George Block
Julie & Robert Cannata
Tanisha & David Cannon
Rosie & Cesar Cardenas
Cathedral Area
Preservation Association
Timothy Delrose
Cynthia & Robert Erickson
ExxonMobil
Hollywood Casino Joliet
Jen & Vic Howard
KKG, LLC
Lindblad Construction
Frances Naal
Pepsi-Cola
Candice Rosen
Wilhelmine & John Vidmar
Mary Kathleen Ward
We apologize for any sponsorships received after this program was printed that are not recognized here. We are grateful for your support!
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RAFFLE
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT!
Purchase a light-up ring or necklace and be entered for a chance to win a VIP experience at USF’s Brown & Gold Night 2024. This experience will allow two individuals early entry, access to a meet-and-greet with the speaker, and tickets to attend Brown & Gold Night. Generously Donated by USF Athletics
1 FOR $75 | 2 FOR $100
Past Speakers Have Included:
BRIAN URLACHER
JOE MADDON
GARY FENCIK
GORDIE GILLESPIE
DAVID ROSS
A.J. PIERZYNSKI
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SILENT AUCTION
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THE SILENT AUCTION
The Silent Auction will conclude at 10:30 p.m.
The Caritas Committee has carefully selected premium items that are made available for purchase by guests through our silent auction.
Goods and service packages have been generously donated by friends of the university.
The silent auction is conducted through computerized auction technology. Guests may bid as often and on as many items as they wish. All transactions are secure. Students will be available throughout the event to help guests check on their bids.
BIDDING RULES
• The winning bid is the highest bidder.
• All bids are final when submitted.
• Established bid increments will be followed.
• Bids must meet or exceed the established minimum.
• Reservations and arrangements for all trips, parties, services, activities, etc., must be mutually arranged with the donor. As a courtesy, please contact the donor(s) of your item(s) as soon as possible, as most trips, parties, services, etc., must be used within one year from the date of the auction. If stated arrangements are not made, the activity is forfeited.
• Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee can guarantee the performance of any item, good or service purchased at the event.
• Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee are liable for damage or injury associated with the redemption or use of auction items.
USE YOUR SMARTPHONE AT CARITAS
You can bid on items in the silent auction directly from your web-enabled smartphone. Just search for usf.cbo.io in a web browser or scan the QR code:
If at registration you opted in for SMS messaging, click the link you were sent via text and you will automatically be logged in and can start bidding!
• Every effort is made to catalog and describe each item correctly based on information received from donors. Items are sold “as is.” Neither the University of St. Francis nor the Caritas Committee are responsible in any way for the description or authenticity of any item.
• All sales are final and no refund or exchange of items is possible.
• Winning bidders must pay in full for items by personal check, cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover.
• Checks should be made payable to the University of St. Francis.
• All auction items must be removed or arrangements made for removal by midnight on April 15, 2023.
• Contributions to the University of St. Francis are tax deductible as provided by law.
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SILENT AUCTION OFFERINGS
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CHICAGO HIGHLANDS GOLF CLUB
Enjoy a round of golf for you and two guests at this exclusive private country club located in Westchester, Illinois. Hosted and arranged by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio.
Generously Donated by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio
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GLEN OAK COUNTRY CLUB
Enjoy a round of golf for you and two guests at this exclusive private country club located in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. Hosted by Beth & J.P. Boulus and arranged by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio.
Generously Donated by Beth & J.P. Boulus
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ONWENTSIA COUNTRY CLUB
Enjoy a round of golf for you and two guests at this exclusive private country club located in Lake Forest, IL. Hosted by Emily & Chip Grace and arranged by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio.
Generously Donated by Emily & Chip Grace
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OAK PARK COUNTRY CLUB
Enjoy a round of golf for you and two guests at this exclusive private country club located in River Grove, Illinois.
Hosted by Amy & Tom Dwyer Jr. and arranged by Steph ’05 & Tyler Qualio.
Generously Donated by Amy & Tom Dwyer Jr.
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CHICAGO CUBS LEGEND JOE
MADDON
SIGNED CUBS JERSEY
Does your man/woman cave need a new treasure? Display your Chicago Cubs pride with this signed Joe Maddon Cubs jersey!
Generously Donated by Joe Maddon
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DAVID ROSS SIGNED CUBS BASEBALL
Calling all fans of legendary baseball catcher and current Chicago Cubs Manager David Ross! This David Ross autographed baseball in a display case can be yours tonight.
Generously Donated by Joe Maddon
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LET’S GO SAINTS!
Property of the Fighting Saints no more! With this package, you can own a little piece of athletics history with an authentic USF Saints football helmet.
Generously Donated by USF Athletics
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VINTAGE SAINTS BASEBALL JERSEY
Take home this USF baseball jersey and display or wear it with pride! Everyone— especially you—goes home a winner!
Generously Donated by USF Athletics
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USF SWAG
Enjoy this Bernie Bucket, filled with swag including apparel, a license plate frame, tumblers, pennant and more!
Let’s Go Saints!
Generously Donated by USF University Advancement
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SAINTS TAILGATE FOR 20
You and 19 friends will enjoy a tailgate barbecue, complete with drinks catered by Quest Food Management Services. Then you’ll cheer on the Fighting Saints football team as they take on Judson University on October 14, 2023.
Generously Donated by Quest Food Management Services and USF Athletics
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YOUR VINTAGE SPIRIT!
Take home three one-of-a-kind GIANT vintage St. Francis pennants like the ones that are decorating the venue tonight!
Generously Donated by USF University Advancement
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Visit Tim Wallace Landscape Supply and Tim ’82 himself will help you select $1,000 worth of trees and shrubs to beautify your home!
Generously Donated by Tim Wallace Landscape Supply
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HAND PAINTED WINE GLASSES
Four beautiful hand-painted wine glasses by local artist and USF alumna and Caritas Committee member Steph Qualio ’05, accompanied by a bottle of Prisoner Red Blend.
Generously Donated by Steph ‘05 and Tyler Qualio
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WATERFORD 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
Celebrate the 12 days of Christmas and set your holiday table with this beautiful set of 12 Waterford crystal champagne flutes!
Generously Donated by Mike Rittof
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OH WATERFORD CHRISTMAS TREE!
Imagine your beautiful Christmas tree decorated with this collection of 18 Waterford crystal ornaments. So beautiful!
Generously Donated by Mike Rittof
“THREE OAKS”
Items 204–206 are unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that have been crafted from wood from USF’s beloved “Three Oaks” trees. Our Sister sponsors planted three oak trees that grew together over the years and became a symbol of relationships and community. The “Three Oaks” stood for 145 years on our main campus and became a favorite landmark. Take home a piece of USF’s rich history!
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“THREE OAKS” WOOD CROSS
Generously Donated by USF and Jeff Kohl, OC Restoration
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“THREE OAKS” WOOD CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Generously Donated by USF and Jeff Kohl, OC Restoration
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“THREE OAKS” WOOD END TABLE
Generously Donated by USF and Jeff Kohl, OC Restoration
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YOUR CARITAS 2023 CENTERPIECE
Enjoy the spirit of scholarship with this one-of-a-kind memento. The centerpiece from the entrance/foyer can be yours! Unique and specially made for tonight’s event, take it with you tonight and brighten up your home!
Generously Donated by USF
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ORIGINAL PAINTING
This beautiful painting of a vase full of daisies was created by alumna Charlotte Codo and will look lovely on one of the walls in your home. It was made with hues of greens, yellows, greys and whites and measures 20” high x 16” wide. Enjoy this original!
Generously Donated by Charlotte Codo ’74
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ORIGINAL ART COLLECTION
This collection of four original paintings of houses and barns was created in shades of greens, browns, blues and reds. These originals, painted by USF alumna Charlotte Codo ’74, will be a beautiful addition to your home. They each measure 12” high x 16” wide.
Generously Donated by Charlotte Codo ’74
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VINTAGE USF LIBRARY CARD CATALOG
Use this vintage card catalog as an end table in your living room or office, or as a side table in your bedroom. The possibilities are endless!
Generously Donated by USF
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ORIGINAL ARTWORK –DECK THE HALLS!
Hang this beautiful framed original drawing of the 2022 USF Christmas card on your wall and enjoy!
Generously Donated by Cindy Wirtz ’83
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FURNITURE UPGRADE
Does your home or office interior need to hit the reset button? Find your new favorite look with this $1,000 Turk Furniture gift certificate! Choose from a variety of furniture and start living or working on your dream space!
Generously Donated by Turk Furniture
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WINE COLLECTION
The Caritas Committee hopes that their favorites become your favorites! Some of your new favorites might include the Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon or the Cooper’s Hawk Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon from the base of the Andes Mountains or the Ophidian Sauvignan Blanc from South Africa! Take home this collection of 12 bottles of wine and sip away!
Generously Donated by Members of the 2023 Caritas Committee
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BOURBON, BOURBON, AND MORE BOURBON
Your collection of bourbon includes: Old Forester 150th Anniversary Batch - 125.6 proof, EH Taylor Small Batch Bottled in Bond - 100 proof, Blanton’s Single Barrel - 93 proof, Eagle Rare 10 Year - 90 proof, and Weller Special Reserve - 90 proof. Drink your dram from these two Glencairn glasses, the official glass for whiskey and bourbon.
Generously Donated by Catherine & Michael Stowe
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DINNER FOR 12 ON THE RIALTO STAGE
Quest Food Management Services will cater a gourmet dinner on the historic Rialto Square Theatre stage in Joliet. While you are enjoying your meal, an organist will provide entertainment on the historic Barton Grande Theatre Pipe Organ. The date will be determined between the winning bidder, Rialto Square Theatre and Food Quest Management Services.
Generously Donated by the Rialto Square Theatre, Quest Food Management Services and Ann ’80 & Steve Randich ’79.
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WE ALL SCREAM FOR TCBY
Enjoy a private party for 50 of your friends! Take advantage of the ice cream and yogurt sundaes and impress everyone’s taste buds with this unique experience. The TCBY truck will cater your event within 20 miles of the USF campus in Joliet. Date to be mutually agreed upon based upon truck availability.
Generously Donated by Jen Howard, TCBY Shorewood
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DOLLINGER FARM PARTY
Enjoy a two-hour party for 20 guests at Dollinger Family Farm in Channahon, Illinois. Your experience includes the use of the entire machine shed during the event. Also included are pizza and kettle corn, and 20 tickets for each of the following activities: train ride, face paint and corn maze. Party must be held on a weekend between 9/16/23 and 10/29/23. Reserve your date by June 1, 2023.
Generously Donated by Theresa Dollinger Waldron & Jon Waldron
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HARRAH’S JOLIET CASINO STAYCATION
Enjoy a one-night stay at Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel and $100 certificate to the Reserve Steakhouse.
Generously Donated by Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel
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NO COOKING TONIGHT
Choose your favorite restaurant from Gibsons Restaurant Group (Gibsons Steakhouse and Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House, just to name a few) and enjoy an evening of not cooking with this $500 gift card!
Generously Donated by Cristina & Ronald ’81 Kenny
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TASTING AT BISHOPS HILL WINERY
Enjoy a wine tasting for 12 people at Bishops Hill Winery in Joliet, complete with a tour of the historic, castle-like winery and food provided by Bella Cucina Catering.
Generously Donated by Bishops Hill Winery and Bella Cucina Catering
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WINE NOT!
Invite your friends over and enjoy a wine tasting for 16 people in your home! An expert from Wines for Humanity will facilitate the tasting consisting of six different bottles of wine. Includes two additional bottles of wine, four glasses and more!
Generously Donated by Wines for Humanity and Annette Jelinek
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BRAD PAISLEY SIGNED GUITAR
Brad Paisley is a master of the acoustic guitar, and his impressive skills have earned him a reputation as one of the best guitarists in country music. He’s won multiple Grammy Awards, and he is one of the few country artists to be inducted into the Guitar Player Hall of Fame! Take home your autographed guitar tonight and enjoy!
Generously Donated by Hollywood Casino Joliet
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JOLIET SLAMMERS – TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME
Bring your best baseball fans to a Joliet Slammers game! It is the premier group outing with a climate-controlled room, as well as a private balcony to watch the game. Dinner and non-alcoholic beverages included for twenty (20) people. Valid during the 2023 season.
Generously Donated by the Joliet Slammers
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LIGHT UP YOUR HOLIDAYS –PARADE FLOAT FOR TWO
For those who like unique nights out, ride on USF’s holiday float during the 2023 Joliet City Center Light Up the Holidays Parade, held annually the day after Thanksgiving. The parade is led by USF’s lovable Bernie as Grand Marshal, and would make a fun date night or daddydaughter/mommy-son activity for alumni!
Generously Donated by the Joliet City Center Partnership
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PAMPER YOURSELF – AVON
Turn your home into your own personal spa with these goodies! Take a much needed pause and discover some new favorites!
Generously Donated by Wilhelmine ’68 & John Vidmar
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SCENTSY
Enjoy this Scentsy basket with warmers and a collection of wax bars in the latest spring and summer scents to cheer your home.
Generously Donated by Jodi ’96, ’02 & Scott Schager
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LIVE AUCTION
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MEET THE AUCTIONEER
Walker Auctions conducts numerous benefit auctions throughout the United States. Each year the charity auctions they conduct raise millions of dollars for these worthwhile causes.
Lance Walker co-wrote the Benefit Auctioneer Specialist curriculum for the National Auctioneers Association and taught the course to hundreds of auctioneers each year. He also has M.S. and B.S. degrees in Education, and is a graduate of the Certified Auctioneers Institute and the Certified Estate Specialist program through the National Auctioneers Association. Walker presently serves as vice president of the National Auctioneers Association. He has been featured on “Hoarders” and “You Bet Your Life” TV programs. He also hosts a radio show and podcast on KWAM 990 called “Time to Sell.”
Lance is married to Auctioneer Terri Walker, BAS, who is also an active Benefit auctioneer. She won the Women’s International Auctioneers Championship and was elected president of the National Auctioneers Association. The couple has been involved in over 1,600 auctions. They have three grown children.
For years, Lance has had the reputation of being one of the leading benefit auctioneers in the country.
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LANCE WALKER
LIVE AUCTION BIDS
To bid, raise your paddle, making sure the number is visible to the auctioneer. Spotters will assist the auctioneer in noting your bid. Use only the paddle number assigned to you.
The highest bidder of any item, as acknowledged by the auctioneer, will be the purchaser. Questions of priority and procedure will be decided by the auctioneer, whose decision will be final and binding. In the event of a dispute between bidders, the auctioneer will have sole and final discretion to determine the successful bidder or to re-offer the item in dispute. Upon auctioneer’s indication of “SOLD”, title to the item will pass to the highest bidder who thereupon assumes full risk and responsibility. By his/her purchase, the bidder waives any claim for liability against either the University of St. Francis or the donor of the property or service. All items are sold “AS IS”. Dollar values included in any item description are estimates provided by the donor and are not warranted by the Caritas Committee or the University of St. Francis for tax purposes or market value.
PAYMENT
• Payment for live and silent auction items must be made in full by midnight the night of the Caritas Scholarship Celebration.
• Winning bidders must pay in full for items by personal check, cash, MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover.
• Checks should be made payable to the University of St. Francis.
• Upon payment, the winner will be directed to the appropriate location to claim the item. Gift certificates and trip information will be available at this time.
• All auction items must be removed or arrangements made for removal by midnight on April 15, 2023.
• You will be asked to sign for your items and will be offered an emailed receipt at checkout.
PADDLE RAISE
In celebration of over 100 years of providing quality education to deserving students of the University of St. Francis, you will have the opportunity during the live auction to raise your paddle and join others in supporting student scholarships. Each year, the University of St. Francis provides more than $22 million in institutional funds to help students make the dream of a college education come true. You may designate a scholarship to support or allow your funds to go where the need is greatest. All proceeds from tonight’s Caritas Scholarship Celebration will directly benefit student scholarship programs at USF. Everyone goes home a winner. Donations are 100% tax deductible.
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AUTOBAHN COUNTRY CLUB PREFORMANCE DRIVE
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Here’s what to expect for four people, learning the basics of driving on a race track!
• Professional Instruction
• Classroom & Track Time
• Lunch Included
• Use your own car
This full day high performance driving course begins with a classroom session covering the basics of vehicle dynamics, proper driving line, body position, and flags. Autobahn’s professional instructors will then guide you through a series of driving drills that will prepare you for what to expect on track. Then it’s time to hit the racetrack. This will begin with touring laps at a controlled speed. The afternoon will have you on the track following our instructors around the course getting you comfortable as we bring up the speed. Each session is followed by classroom instruction/ review with our instructors. The day will culminate with a solo session on track putting all that you have learned into practice.
You and your friends will also experience a session on Autobahn’s professional grade .52-mile Kart Track. Karts feature a Honda GX270 cc engine, full-body perimeter bumper system, easy-to-use pedal & seat adjustment, 4-point Sparco safety harness system and roll hoop with head rest. These high-performance race karts go up to 55 mph!
Drivers must be 18+ to participate and have a valid driver’s license. Generously Donated by Penny & Mark Basso, The Autobahn Country Club
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SPIRITUAL JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME FOR TWO
The AFCU Franciscan Pilgrimage brings together leaders of various faith traditions from Franciscan Institutions across the world to reflect on and learn from the vision, places and events of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi. Led by USF’s own Sister Mary Elizabeth Imler, OSF, along with USF employees, the May 2024 pilgrimage includes 11 days of travel, reflection, study, conversation, leisure and walking to visit sacred Franciscan sites in Assisi and Rome in Italy. Premium seating on American Airlines and travel will be booked in May of 2023. Includes lodging, breakfast and dinner each day. Does not include first class seating.
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Generously Donated by Anne & USF President Arvid Johnson and AFCU Pilgrimages
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SMOKIN’ HOT PARTY FOR 50
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Expert smokers, Patrick Elens and Caritas Committee member Gordon Marsh, will smoke your choice of beef, pork or brisket at your home and carve the meat for your pleasure. Included will be two delicious sides and rolls. To complete your summer or fall bash, enjoy a TCBY sundae bar. There will be little for you to do except sit back and enjoy the festivities!
Package is available from July 21 through the end of 2023, excluding major holidays—perfect for baseball and football season! Reservations must be made at least one month in advance. Beverages not included.
Generously Donated by Carl Boutilier, PB&J Commercial Agents; Jen Howard, TCBY Shorewood and Caritas Committee Member; Gordon Marsh, Caritas Committee Member
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ESCAPE TO COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO
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Colorado Springs is an alluring outdoor adventure location. As you run, bike, or stroll on the trails, you can breathe in the clean, fresh mountain air of Colorado. With its towering rock formations in varying colors of white, orange, and red snuggled into the mountains and set against the snowy peaks of Pikes Peak and the vivid blue sky, Garden of the Gods Park is a photographer’s dream. Tour the Air Force Museum, go white-water rafting—the possibilities are endless! Enjoy seven nights in this two-bedroom, threebathroom townhome with an open floor plan that sleeps seven while you enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Colorado Springs! No blocked dates. Includes tickets to the Cog Railway that takes you to the top of Pikes Peak and a $300 gift certificate to the Golden Bee restaurant at the historic Broadmoor Resort. Also includes a suite to the Air Force football game if in the fall.
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Generously Donated by Gina & Brian Sharp ’97, ’01, Caritas Committee Members
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WHERE LUXURY MEETS EXCITING CUBS BASEBALL
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Enjoy two tickets to Wrigley Field’s exclusive 1914 Club, and step back in time to when the Cubs first started their legacy! You’ll also enjoy a Cubs home game, with two second-row tickets right behind home plate. Following the game, enjoy the city with an overnight stay at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel.
Generously Donated by Kimberly & Trustee Michael ’83 Bryant
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MESSAGES FROM GRATEFUL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
“Scholarship has helped me in working towards my Biology degree here at USF, and also has given me the incentive to work towards my end goal of graduating and going to medical school. It has allowed me to take advantage of all the opportunities that the school has provided me with such as a rigorous curriculum, wonderful professors, and a community that has supported me all four years. This University has a very special place in my heart and it will always be a part of who I am.”
CALISTA MURASKAS
“I could say that I chose St. Francis because of the exceptional education program—and that certainly was part of my decision. It is truly phenomenal! However, I chose St. Francis because of the atmosphere. When touring colleges, this school was the only place that made me feel emotionally safe and capable of pursuing my dreams. I struggle with change and transitions in life, but the people here and the environment made me think ‘I can do this.’ I have been extremely blessed to have received scholarships that have made it possible for me to attend such an amazing school. It is through the support of generous donors like you all that I am able to graduate in five years with my master’s in Education! The College of Education has prepared me well and taught me so much that I have spent my senior year as a long-term substitute teacher, getting experience teaching and managing my own classes. An opportunity like this is unique, and it is through the support of my teachers that it was possible. I have received such incredible support from the USF community, and I thank God every day for the blessing that has been my college experience. And now, I can thank you! So from the bottom of my heart, thank you for your generosity—I truly appreciate all you do for students like me!”
SENIOR BIOLOGY MAJOR
SAINTS AMBASSADOR
SARAH DEFFENBAUGH
28
SENIOR ENGLISH MAJOR WITH SECONDARY CERTIFICATION AND MIDDLE LEVEL AND ELEMENTARY ENDORSEMENTS SAINTS AMBASSADOR
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Joseph T. Mallof
CHAIR
OF THE BOARD
Cheryl McCarthy, Ed.D. VICE CHAIR OF THE BOARD
Anthony Arellano
Rachael Bartolini
Sr. Jeanne Bessette, OSF, Ed.D.*
Michael Bily
Sr. Sue Bruno, OSF*
Michael Bryant
Tanisha Cannon, Ed.D.
Iman Ellis-Bowen, Ed.D.
Robert J. Erickson
Jason Fiske
Shane Green
Diane F. Habiger
Steven Hernandez, J.D.
Scott Holdman
Sr. MaryAnn
Jerkofsky, OSF, Ph.D.
* Sponsorship Trustee
Carolyn L. Murphy
TRUSTEE EMERITA
Arvid C. Johnson, Ph.D.
Rev. James B.
Lewis, O.Carm.
Jose Paramo
Victor R. Patterson
Sr. Maria Pesavento, OSF*
John Przybyla
Steven J. Randich
Candice P. Rosen
Paramjit Singh
Sidhu (Deceased)
Daniel Streitz, Sr., DDS
Katie Sullivan
Dan Vogen
Patricia S. Wheeler
Sr. Mary Jo
Young, OSF, Ph.D.
29
500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois 60435 800-735-7500 | stfrancis.edu Provide the Power of Franciscan Education. To give, text 56651—keyword USF.
