Archbishop’s Dinner for Education raises nearly $1.1 million, breaks attendance record

The Archdiocese of Omaha’s 49th annual Archbishop’s Dinner for Education set a fundraising record, raising nearly $1.1 million for need-based scholarships. A record crowd of more than 1,000 people gathered at the CHI Health Center on Sept. 24 to celebrate Catholic education and support students in northeast Nebraska.

Proceeds from the event support K-8 students through the Children’s Scholarship Fund and high school students through the Archbishop’s Scholars program, helping families send their children to Catholic schools.

A record crowd gathered for the 49th annual Archbishop’s Dinner for Education at the CHI Health Center on Sept. 24, 2026 raised nearly $1.1 million to support needs-based scholarships. AARON ZAVITS

“The record-setting generosity of this night is a testament to the faith and sacrifice of so many Catholics in our archdiocese,” said Archbishop Michael McGovern. “But as great as that generosity is, the need is greater. There are still more students seeking scholarship assistance than we have scholarships to offer, and we will keep working so that every family who desires a Catholic education for their children can have one.”

“We are deeply grateful to every donor, sponsor and volunteer who made this night possible,” said Bree Kotulak, director of stewardship and development for the Archdiocese of Omaha. “Each gift becomes a scholarship that opens the doors of a Catholic school to a child, and the response this year was inspiring.”

Rick and Jen Bettger chaired this year’s dinner, joined by co-chairs Stacy and Nicki Auman and honorary chairs Jim and Mary Czyz. The archdiocese thanks them for their leadership and generous service on behalf of Catholic school families.

The dinner also honored eight educators for their commitment and service to Catholic education. Each honoree received a $7,500 award. Amy Evans of St. Isidore in Columbus and Dr. Trish Wallinger of St. Mary in Bellevue were honored as administrators of the year. Elementary school educators of the year were Laura Morrison of St. Rose of Lima in Crofton and Shannon Watkins of St. Patrick in Elkhorn. Jason Konicek of Norfolk Catholic and Sister Carol Jean VanDenHemel of Mt. Michael Benedictine School were honored as high school educators of the year. Maginn Family Foundation educators of the year for service to inner city and underserved schools were Alison Dibelka of Sts. Peter and Paul in Omaha and Katie Laughhunn of St. Bernadette in Bellevue.

“What a beautiful evening of celebration to honor our deserving educators,” said Vickie Kauffold, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Omaha. “I am so appreciative of the tremendous support received for student scholarships.”

In Fall 2027, the Archdiocese of Omaha will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Archbishop’s Dinner for Education.

Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Omaha educate approximately 19,000 students in 16 high schools and 47 elementary schools.

Archbishop Michael McGovern and student volunteers from Catholic high schools across the Omaha metro pose for a photo at the 49th annual Archbishop’s Dinner for Education. (AARON ZAVITS)