Sláinte! University Goes Green, Celebrates Program's Emerald Anny with Irish-Themed Gala

Daniel Ortiz
Sláinte! University Goes Green, Celebrates Program's Emerald Anny with Irish-Themed Gala

David Kem and Judith Raines, Michele Malloy, and Lori Gallagher

THE UNIVERSITY OF St. Thomas has a lot to be thankful for this season — especially given the success of its recent gala at The Houstonian, benefiting its William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies.


The Center toasted its 20th, or "emerald," anniversary, so naturally, chairs Judith Raines and Dave Kem selected beautiful hues of green to adorn the ballroom for the occasion. Here, nearly 300 supporters raised more than $330,000, which will go to the Center's study abroad opportunities and student scholarships. The Consul General of Ireland, Robert Hull, was the guest of honor.

The evening included a gourmet dinner and an all-in-good-fun "roast and toast" of former UST Board Chair Michele Malloy, a champion of Irish studies and culture, followed by a live auction with items like a luxury cruise from Dublin to London. There was also a performance by the Clann Kelly Dancers from the Clann Kelly School of Irish Dance in Houston.

UST's William J. Flynn Center for Irish Studies is a top-10 Irish Studies program, and is named for the former chairman of Mutual of America Life Insurance Company in honor of his outstanding contributions to the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

Peggy and Hugh Idstein

Michele Malloy, David Harvey, and Gloria Portela

Raye White and Auxiliary Bishop Italo Dell’Oro

Consul General of Ireland Robert Hull

Angie and Michael Marcon, Melynda and Richard Ludwick, Jeffrey and Kiki Carroll

Lisa Malosky

Madelyn and George Farris

Curtis Huff and Bob Corrigan

Parties
Ancient French Wellness Cures Reimagined at Houston’s Escape Spa: The Power of Vichy

Serial entrepreneur and spa visionary LeBrina Jackson

NESTLED IN THE heart of France, the town of Vichy holds a rich history in the world of wellness and hydrotherapy. Acquiring fame for their alkaline springs in the 17th century, the Romans were among the first to recognize the therapeutic benefits of the springs. They established a French spa known as “Vichy,” which still exists today and continues to attract spa-goers from around the world to experience the transformative effects of hydrotherapy.

Keep Reading Show less

Betty Hrncir, Sidney Faust, Julie Baker Finck

ACTUAL WINTER WEATHER was in the forecast the night of the Winter Ball, benefiting the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and honoring the Women of Distinction, a festive and fitting detail that sparked a flurry of conversation at the Omni Hotel.

Keep Reading Show less
Parties

Concert of Arias finalists on the Wortham stage, including first place and audience choice winner Geonho Lee of South Korea, third from left. (Photo by Michael Bishop)

LONG ONE OF the HGO’s most exciting evenings on the calendar — Artistic and Music Director Patrick Summers called it the best night of the year — the 37th Annual Concert of Arias and gala dinner afterward dazzled and inspired opera fans.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment