For nearly two decades, St. Anthony Catholic School has worked to break the cycle of poverty and limited opportunity in Arizona’s White Mountains. Inspired by founder Bob Higgins’ unwavering vision, our mission has grown from 34 students in 2006 to a thriving Pre-K through 8th grade program with 131 alumni.
Thanks to the generous support of St. Rita Parish and others, we’ve steadily expanded—paying off nearly $150,000 in debt by 2018 and building a strong foundation for growth. In 2022, we had raised $540,000 toward our dream of a permanent campus. At the time, our goal was $4M.
Since then, inflation and rising construction costs the project’s price tag is now $5.1M. We've raised $2.5M so far, but we must now secure the remaining $2.6M through continued fundraising and financing.
Construction begins April 25, 2025. With loan payments nearing $17,000 per month, we’re committed to bold action. In 2024, we hired a full-time Development Director to lead a strategic campaign and create meaningful partnerships with businesses and donors.
As the only Catholic school within 161 miles, St. Anthony is a vital presence in our region. But our new building will represent more than geography—it will signal excellence, sustainability, and hope.
Now is the time. Join us. Invest in values, in community, and in the future of countless children who deserve the chance to shine.
Join us under the stars on Saturday, July 19, 2025, for The St. Anthony Starlit Soirée Gala. Set in a nostalgic barn nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, this elegant evening promises joy, connection, and lasting impact. Guests will come together to raise essential funds for the future home of St. Anthony Catholic School—an investment in generations to come.
Our last gala in 2019 was unforgettable, and we are thrilled to answer the many heartfelt requests for its return. Seating is limited to just 120 guests, and every sponsorship level is expected to sell out quickly. We invite you to be part of this magical night, where every moment shared directly supports the students, families, and mission of St. Anthony Catholic School.
DATE: Saturday - July 19, 2025
TIME: 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm
LOCATION: The Gathering Place
4756 Buck Springs Road
Pinetop, AZ 85935
A curated dinner by local chef Cheryl Girardi of My Sister Can’t Cook Catering
Savor elegantly handcrafted cuisine made from cherished family recipes by Cheryl Girardi of My Sister Can’t Cook Catering, known for exquisite, made-from-scratch meals using the finest ingredients—proudly serving Pinetop, AZ for over 30 years.
Ticketed Meal Selection
All guests must pre-select one entrée option prior to the event.
Appetizer
Lavender, Honey Goat Cheese Crostini
Salad
Mixed Field Greens with Seasonal Fruit, Blue Cheese,
& Candied Nuts (served on the side)
Dinner Sides
Assorted Bread with Butter
Seasonal Vegetable
Wild Rice Pilaf with Fresh Herbs
Entrée Options (select one)
Flank Steak with Peppercorn Sauce
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Caper Sauce
Vegetarian Chef’s Choice
Dessert
Starlit Soirée-Inspired Sweet Finale