A decade of impact: 10th annual Maroon & Gold gala returns September 19

This fall, Concordia University Chicago will host its 10th annual Maroon & Gold gala on Saturday, September 19, at the elegant Eaglewood Spa & Resort in Itasca, Ill. Since the event's founding in 2017, the signature fundraising gala has brought together alumni, faculty, staff, and friends to support the University and raise funds for programs that prepare students for their vocations.

The evening will also celebrate the achievements of the CUC community and give thanks to three extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions to the University, the church, and beyond. Awards include the Distinguished Alumni Award, the Spiritus Christi Award, and the One Heart Award.

• Dr. Manfred Boos (BA '70) will receive the Spiritus Christi Award. Boos is a distinguished professor emeritus of mathematics and computer science at Concordia-Chicago. He earned a Master of Science in Teaching from Fordham University and an MPhil, MEd, and PhD from Columbia University. In 2016, Boos became a laborer for Christ, working part-time at the University. Today, the Concordia community often sees him driving his golf cart across campus, ready to lend a hand wherever needed.

• Jeff Schwarz will receive the One Heart Award. Schwarz is general manager of Lutheran Public Radio and executive producer of the radio-talk show "Issues, Etc." He serves on the school board at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School of Hamel in Worden, Ill., and on the Board of Regents at Concordia-Chicago. He is also the 2014 recipient of the Miles Christi (Soldier of Christ) Award, chosen by the faculty of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Ind.

• Lois Stewart (BA '83) will receive the Distinguished Alumni Undergraduate Award. Stewart graduated from Concordia-Chicago in 1983 and has served in Lutheran education for 33 years as a teacher, coach, and principal. Since 2018, Stewart has served the Northern Illinois District (NID) as a school services coordinator and mission facilitator. Additionally, Stewart supports NID churches and the call process for commissioned workers.

Together, the three awardees exemplify the mission and values of Concordia-Chicago: steadfast faithfulness, a commitment to excellence and integrity, and a heart for Christ-centered service. The University nurtures these same values in students, preparing them for lives of influence and service for the common good through the vocation that God calls them toward. That work is made possible through the support of alumni and friends, whose faithful philanthropy helps make a meaningful difference in the lives of students.

"Since it was first held, generous attendees and sponsors of the Maroon & Gold Gala have contributed significantly to student scholarships," said Senior Director of Strategic Events & Development Lisa Salazar. "We believe that God blesses each of us with unique gifts. Concordia University Chicago helps students identify and strengthen their gifts and prepares them to go into the world and serve others through their vocation."

"For the 10th anniversary of the Maroon & Gold Gala, we are focusing our efforts on raising a record $500,000 to help students pursue their education at Concordia-Chicago," Salazar continued. "We hope the Concordia-Chicago community can join us as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and invest in the future of our students."

For ticketing and scheduling, visit CUChicago.edu/alumni/maroon-gold. Email [email protected] for more information on corporate and individual sponsorships.