Sacred Hearts Academy’s 16th Annual Scholarship Gala fundraiser, held at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel on Oct. 14, was a huge success due to the support of the Academy community.

“The primary purpose of the Gala is to raise money for the scholarship fund, which supports students and Academy families financially,” said Director of Development, Andrea Hamilton. Nearly the entire school community is involved, including alumnae, parents, students, faculty, corporate sponsors and friends of the Academy.

“Sacred Hearts’ students and scholarship recipients are able to benefit directly from the Gala,” said Hamilton. “Other students benefit, too, especially those who volunteer at the event. They are able to see first-hand how our community responds so positively to the special evening.”

“This year was my first year attending the annual Gala, and I was astounded as to how many guests there were. The ballroom was huge, and all of the tables were filled,” said junior Xylia Lydgate.

Junior Kuuleilani Woods agreed. “There were many people who were a part of the Gala, the speakers were really interesting and the entertainment was great.”

“Turnouts for the Gala have increased from the first year, which included only 450 people,” said Hamilton “This number has grown to over 800 participants every year.”

Many items were auctioned at the Gala, including donations from sponsors, such as jewelry, certificates and services.

Physics teacher Nathan Patla purchased a red ruby in support of the school.

“A student told me that the ruby was from Afghanistan and had been given to the Sacred Hearts Leo Club as a gift for the donated eye glasses,” said Patla. “It was for a good cause, and I’m happy to support the Catholic education that Sacred Hearts offers because I believe that this school produces not only good students, but good people as well.”