The buck stops with University of St. Thomas president Robert Ivany, so when he asked that the program for the "Spring Fashion Event" at River Oaks Country Club be shortened a bit, organizers obliged. A man after my own heart. Less is more when it comes to charity fundraiser programs.

Ivany and his wife, Marianne, were part of the luncheon program that honored five women with close associations to the university. Applause, applause for UST graduates Sandra Pezzetta, Robin Thomas Klaes, Saba Abashawl and Greggory Fields Burk, women of accomplishment who have continued support of their alma mater. Also recognized was the late Betsy Ann Earthman, honored for her community service and in particular her dedication to UST.

The ballroom was packed with a sell-out crowd of 400 women and sprinkling of men who were entertained with a fashion presentation from Neiman Marcus. Taking bows for the luncheon's success was chair Katie Earthman Cullen, a UST graduate and fourth generation Houstonian.

Not only was the short program, affording guests the opportunity to visit during lunch, a hit with the crowd but so was the dessert selection — diner's choice of strawberry shortcake or pecan ball. Talk about tough decisions! Among those having to make the choice between the very sweet treats were Liz Ghrist, Rose Cullen, Linda and Jerry Fields, Niqué Luqman, Betty Tutor, Kathi Rovere, Frances Escriva, Kelli Kickerillo and Todd Forrester, Mary and Vincent Kickerillo, Lisa O'Leary and this writer, who served as luncheon emcee.