Grace School marked its 50th anniversary in grand style with “Fête50,” a sold-out gala at Hotel ZaZa Memorial City on March 1. The milestone party enticed 300 guests for an evening of dining, dancing, and spirited giving, raising $538,000 to support key school initiatives.

Co-chairs Alissa and Scooter Hicks and Erin and Rickey Williams envisioned an elegant affair, where guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner, dessert stations, and specialty cocktails amid décor by Bergner and Johnson that blended Grace Gator blue with gold accents.

Liz Walgamuth, head of school, reflected on Grace School’s legacy and bright future, while auctioneer Vincent Montalbano led a live auction featuring luxury getaways to destinations like Córdoba, Argentina, and Vail, Colorado. A wine and whiskey pull, big board auction, and silent auction added to the night’s thrills.

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors — including SLI Group, Inc., MetroNational, Memorial City, and Geraldine and Brian Powell, Ania and Greg Burzynski, Angie and David Habachy, and Betsy Crafton — the funds raised will enhance student experiences through new playgrounds, transportation, fine arts programs, and academic competitions.

Seen in the crowd were Jennifer Bird, Alissa Hennon, Christina Dyer, Lizzie Corona, Sophia Evans, Megan Phillips, Elli and Borden Tennant, Kelsey Beasley, Abbey and Chandler Martin, Candice Jungeblut, Whitney and Brett Bennett, Leigh Anne Shumate, Jacqui Hertlein, Courtney and Justin Hodge, Carrie and Ben Pisklak, Kaimyn Urrutia, Michelle Spalding, Jessica Porter, Tracy and Michael Henn, Amanda and Stephen Newton, and Julia Leeth.

Courtesy of Grace School

Rickey and Erin Williams; Alissa and Scooter Hicks.