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

The Catholic Education Foundation is set to honor six individuals, including a bishop, at its 35th annual Salute to Catholic School Alumni event on March 18. The gathering will be held at the Galt House in downtown Louisville.

Richard A. Lechleiter, president of the foundation, anticipates a "great event" and expressed excitement about the honorees, which include Bishop J. Mark Spalding of Nashville. Bishop Spalding was formerly a priest of the Archdiocese of Louisville.

"This is a wonderful group of individuals from all walks of life," said Lechleiter. "We think it’s important to recognize our clergy."

Lechleiter also looks forward to hearing from Jeff Brohm, head football coach for the University of Louisville, who will speak at the event. Brohm was previously honored as a Salute to Catholic School Alumni honoree.

“Anyone who knows the Brohm family knows how much their faith and Catholic education means to them,” Lechleiter noted. He added that Brohm's experience has influenced his coaching approach with his team.

Brohm teaches players that it's “not just about being a great football player, but about being a great man.” According to Lechleiter, Brohm is "the perfect example to have on stage."

The foundation expects around 1,600 attendees and aims to surpass last year's $1.6 million in net proceeds.

“Every year has to be a record year,” said Lechleiter. “The cost of education is rising. It’s not optional for us to have a down year.”

This year's honorees include:

- Bishop J. Mark Spalding: Graduate of Bethlehem High School in Bardstown, Ky., ordained for the Archdiocese of Louisville in 1991, and installed as bishop of Nashville in 2018.

- William E. Mudd: President and COO of Churchill Downs; graduate of Bellarmine University.

- Donna L. Heitzman: Retired senior portfolio manager for KKR Prisma Capital; graduate of Sacred Heart Academy.

- Gregory A. DeMuth: Market executive at German American Bank; graduate of Bellarmine University.

- Jennifer Black Hans: Retired senior legislative analyst; attended Presentation Academy.

- E. John Raque III: Retired business executive; involved in community services including Bellarmine University's board.

Additionally, Charles H. Leis will receive the Community Service Award for his advocacy work on school choice through EdChoice Kentucky.

Emily McCarty will be recognized with the Father Joseph McGee Outstanding Catholic Educator award during the event for her dedication as a middle school math teacher at Holy Spirit School.

The award honors Father McGee's commitment to Catholic education since its establishment in 1988.