Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Six Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Louisville are gearing up for the fourth annual Alumnae Unite fundraiser, scheduled to take place from April 16 to 18. The event aims to raise funds for their annual funds, with a cumulative goal set at $300,000 for Catholic education, as expressed by Michelle Coke Farmer, the executive director of advancement for Assumption High School.

Reflecting on the past achievements, Farmer stated, “Our goal is for each school to reach 20 percent alumnae participation and raise $300,000 for Catholic education, collectively, which we know is very ambitious yet attainable.” She further emphasized the importance of alumnae engagement, saying, “We are fortunate to have such amazing alumnae, and it’s our hope that by setting these goals together that we can hold one another accountable, but also so that our alumnae see the importance of participating.”

Elizabeth Ruwe, the director of development at Presentation, also encouraged alumnae to get involved, highlighting the significance of their alma mater in shaping their lives. Ruwe urged, “Consider your legacy and how your alma mater plays a part. Whether you are the latest in a long family line of graduates or the first in your family to attend a Catholic school, your high school helped make you the woman you are today. You can honor your past and invest in the next generation of leaders through an Alumnae Unite gift.”

The fundraiser, which originated as the #RivalsUnite4Girls challenge among four all-girl schools, has expanded to include Holy Cross and Bethlehem high schools, now known as Alumnae Unite. This initiative not only supports girls’ education but also underscores the importance of alumnae participation.

The 60-hour challenge is set to kick off at noon on April 16 and conclude at midnight on April 18. However, all annual fund donations made by alumnae since July 1, 2023, will be counted towards the final participation percentage for the respective schools. The funds raised will go towards the schools’ annual funds, aiding in tuition assistance and operational expenses.

Molly Mattingly, the director of advancement at Bethlehem, emphasized the critical role of the annual fund, stating, “The annual fund is our daily lifeline; it helps with operational costs as well as helping keep tuition affordable for all.” The total funds raised by each school during this year's fundraiser will be announced on April 23.