VASJ raises over $325,000 at Continue the Dream

Over 450 people packed the VASJ Gymnasium on Saturday, April 22 to celebrate the school’s annual Continue the Dream gala. 

Thanks to the incredible support of our generous attendees, donors and event sponsors, VASJ was able to raise over $325,000. The gala serves as the school’s largest fundraiser of the year, enabling VASJ to continue to offer its high standards of Catholic education to current and future students.

“We truly can’t thank our donors enough for their generosity at this year’s Continue the Dream gala,” said VASJ President Tom Carone. “Your support will provide the resources and tuition assistance required to provide our students with the complete high school experience. All of you truly make a difference, and we are incredibly grateful.”

After a welcome from Carone, former FOX 8 Cleveland sports anchor and emcee John Telich took to the stage to kick off the event. VASJ junior Ariana Somich delivered an impressive rendition of the National Anthem. 

Two VASJ seniors, Roland Ivy Jr. and Maria Karboski, were the featured speakers of the evening. 

Roland, who will be attending the University of Dayton, shared how attending VASJ has helped to shape him into the young adult he is today. 

“I was once a very introverted and reserved child, but all of that changed once I started high school at VASJ,” he said. “I soon broke out of my shell and I took advantage of the many opportunities that are available to me and my peers. Now, I am heavily involved in this community and the community around us.”



As one of six kids, Maria said she understood at a young age that paying for a Catholic education was a sacrifice for her parents. Instead of opting for public school, they made the decision to send Maria and her siblings to Catholic schools to not only receive an education but experience a community of love and kindness.

“I love VASJ, but I never would have been able to go here if not for the aid I was given,” said Maria, who will be attending John Carroll University. “I work hard for my scholarships, but without the administration assisting me in getting them, I wouldn’t have them at all. The aid I was given has given my family incredible ease and allowed me to attend this amazing school. I wouldn’t be who I am without this place, and I will forever be grateful.”

The evening also included the induction of the VASJ Hall of Fame Class of 2022, along with brief remarks by gala chair couple John ‘59 and Linda Storey.

Guests had the chance to bid on nearly 140 silent auction items, along with an incredible lineup of live auction items. They also enjoyed a delicious sit-down meal catered by AVI.

Click here to view more event photos.

A special thank you to this year’s sponsors: 

PLATINUM: 
Frances FitzSimons '66

GOLD: 
Michael Gallagher '75
Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland

SILVER:
Anonymous
Baskets, Brunch & Bubbly
Don '70 & Mary Jo Dailey
KeyBank
McKeon Education Group
St. Joseph Class of 1970