In addition to being an evening of fun and community, Sacred Heart’s annual auction is an important fundraiser for the school. Chairing the auction is no small feat, usually taking months of preparation and organization, and of course 2020 has been nothing short of a wildcard! Organizing this year’s Viva ASH Vegas Casino Night and Auction to entice participation while complying with all COVID guidelines has presented more than the usual number of challenges, but this year’s auction committee is up to the task! We asked our two auction co-chairs and the chair of the decoration committee, all Sacred Heart alumnae, to share why volunteering for ASH is so important to them.

What has motivated you to stay involved at ASH? 

Celeste Lopez ’90, Auction Co-Chair: It has been 30 years, since I graduated from ASH in Grand Coteau.  When I meet up with fellow classmates, it is as if time stood still, and we all feel that wonderful connection.  Similarly, I have felt that connection with many of the Sacred Heart parents.  With two daughters, who are attending ASH, I now know what my parents felt in showing me the importance of a great education while incorporating a strong religious background as well. I enjoy being a part of my daughters school and giving back in any way I can.

Christine Lejeune ’02, Auction Co-Chair: Where do I start?!  Of course, so much of who I am as a person today is because of the education I received from Sacred Heart.  Sacred Heart's traditions, and the manner in which Sacred Heart educates girls who can and will literally "change the world," sets it apart from any other school.  These things alone would be enough of a reason for me to be involved at Sacred Heart.  But what makes my involvement all the more special and rewarding is seeing my own three girls educated with the same philosophy and traditions as I was so many years ago, and they are thriving because of it.  

Ann Heslin ’95, Chair of Decor Committee: I am so proud to be a Rosary alumna. Since my graduation, our school has expanded in ways that were unimaginable two decades ago. Now more than ever, the Rosary needs alumnae support by donating to the auction, paying Alumnae Association dues, or making a gift to the Annual Giving Drive. When I was asked to chair the Decor committee for this year's virtual event, I was thrilled. Serving as the Decor chair is an honor as it provides an opportunity for meeting members of the Rosary community while having fun and investing in my alma mater. I remain committed to helping the Rosary advance its mission to directly benefit current and future generations of students. 

What are you most looking forward to at the event?

Celeste Lopez ’90:I’m looking forward to seeing people (from a distance!) and working with other parents and getting to know them. 

Christine Lejeune ’02: The thing I'm looking forward to the most about this year's auction is the sense of community at Sacred Heart that I have missed so dearly since the COVID-19 pandemic struck earlier this year.  Seeing both old and new members of our community all working towards the support of our beloved school is what makes events like this one extra special at Sacred Heart.

Ann Heslin ’95: I am looking forward to seeing members of the Rosary community drive around the decorated courtyard and fountain, play the fun "casino" games, enjoy a delicious dinner by 12 Seasons Catering, and bidding on auction items.  Although we cannot be together this year, the virtual format provides a safe and healthy way for parents, alumnae, grandparents, and friends to support the Rosary. The Auction leadership has devoted a lot of time and energy to ensure that donors have a high-quality, memorable experience. 

Any special items you have your eye on? 

Celeste Lopez ’90: I have my eye on a few of the art pieces. Our solicitations committee has done a fantastic job with getting items for the silent auction.

Christine Lejeune ’02: All of them!!!  But if I had to choose a few, I would say the Rivers Spencer coffee table, Amanda Stone Talley painting, and the "Glamping" Cabins at Stella Plantation.

Ann Heslin ’95: Well, I really like the Diamonds Direct necklace but a staycation at the Parkview Guest House also sounds amazing. The Becky Fos tumblers, masks, and beach towels are so beautiful, and I look forward to adding them to my home!