At the Gala we recognized two special honorees, whose dedication and generosity have left an indelible mark on our school. The first recognition was presented to the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. In 2004, The Sisters took a profound risk opening Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School. They have always looked back on this decision as a response to St. Julie's call to serve those most in need by providing an educational opportunity, professional work experiences and on-demand-smiles and hugs!

Click here to see the recognition: Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur

Our second honoree of the evening was Suzanne, Wright. She accepted the recognition on behalf of her father's legacy: The Ibrahim El-Hefni Technical Foundation who provides 40 full scholarships annually to our young scholars. She spoke about how her father "valued education above nearly everything else. My dad instilled in me the idea that, as a parent, it is my obligation to give my children what they need to support their curiosity, their intellectual growth and ultimately their ability to stand on their own and succeed in the world. What I have learned is that NDCR does the exact same thing for it's young scholars. These beautiful children given every tool they need to succeed, their curiosity is nourished, their academic needs are supported, and their world view is expanded. Adn when, as they all inevitably do go off to a four-year college, these graduates continue to be held and supported by NDCR.

Click Here to see the recognition: Suzanne Wright & the El-Hefni Technical Training Foundation

As if our night wasn't already filled with enough special honors and surprises, Alumni, Shelby Morales, Class of 2021, returned to share a heartfelt tribute to Sister Mary Murphy, the visionary who laid the foundation of our institution. The Alumni Emergency fund is now "The Sister Mary Murphy Alumni Emergency Fund!" Shelby warmly shared her experience,

"It is near and dear to my heart. In my spring semester of 2022, I was facing food insecurity at college. Thanks to this fund, NDCR paid for my meal plan that semester." The alumni have come together to rename a significant scholarship in honor of our founder, Sister Mary Murphy, this renaming marks a profound acknowledgment of her enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to education and student empowerment. This is one of the many ways NDCR upholds its commitment to see students "to and through college". Shelby noted that Sister "has always been an inspiration to me since I was a student at NDCR. Learning about her love for God and education made me want to be more like her. She exemplifies gratitude, strength, and resilience." Shelby was joined at the podium by fellow alumni who presented Sister with a check of $53,000 "to replenish the Alumni Emergency Fund in your honor. Thank you for your passion, commitment and love of your alumni Sister Mary!"