One typically thinks of a Mardi Gras celebration as something a bit ribald, but not when it's the University of St. Thomas' annual Mardi Gras fete — particularly this year. The Catholic university honored the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist and the sisters were in attendance as were a number of priests, who are regulars on this tony guest list.
Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia chaired the black-tie evening that earned more than $800,000 for UST scholarships. And that's a good thing as 92 percent of incoming freshman for the current school year received scholarship assistance.
Barrett Lauer and Chloe Jester took bows in the Royal Sonesta ballroom as student Mardi Gras king and queen, respectively.
Among the revelers were UST president Robert Ivany and wife Marianne, Margaret Alkek Williams and Jim Daniel, Kelli Kickerillo and Todd Forester, Mary and Vincent Kickerillo, Trini Mendenhall-Sosa and Frank Sosa, Alice and Keith Mosing, Reinette and Stan Marke, Jan and Oniel Mendenhall and Betty and Jess Tutor.
