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Centennial Gala Toast | | Below is the text to the Toast offered at the Regis High School Centennial Gala by Rev. Philip G. Judge, S.J. '80, President of Regis High School. |
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Good evening and welcome. After so much time and preparation it amazes me that we have finally arrived at this celebration. It is a joy to have all of you here. Still, there is one esteemed guest whom we both miss and especially celebrate tonight. A hundred years of Regis education would not have happened if Julia Grant had not met with Fr. David Hearn after midnight mass in a chapel at St. Ignatius. If not for the gift of that night none of us would be here.
The only accolade she accepted for her initial private benefaction and later anonymous generosity was being given the title of Founder of the Society of Jesus. Her daughters and son continued her gifts and were named founders of the New York Province. "Founder". What a short term for such enormous care and giving. Tonight we can only stand in awe at the generosity that has brought us together and that continues to provide the gift of education for leadership for new generations of young men. The Book of Proverbs says that a worthy woman "reaches out her hands to the poor and extends her arm to the needy….Her children rise up and praise her; let her works praise her at the city gates."
As we begin our celebration, may I invite you to stand and raise your glass. To the Foundress of Regis High School and her family in wonder and great gratitude. |
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