LACEY, Wash. — This year celebrates the 20th anniversary of the annual Saint Martin’s University Gala. This festive fundraiser traditionally showcases an internationally-renowned celebrity chef and an auction of items and experiences while raising money for student scholarships. To date, the Gala has raised more than $21 million.
For 2025, the school welcomes chef on Saturday, November 1, 2025. Bayless is a seven-time James Beard Award winner, Emmy nominated PBS series host, restauranteur, cookbook author, philanthropist and winner of television’s Top Chef Masters. Bayless will create some of his iconic Mexican cuisine at the event so attendees can truly watch, smell and taste the joys of a master at work.
Sign up for a night on the Frontera (Grill) of culinary excellence with Chef Rick Bayless
“As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Saint Martin’s Gala, we celebrate the generosity of our community and the life-changing impact that this has had on our students,” shares Bill Brownsberger, Saint Martin’s University president. “Scholarships funded by Gala donations enable students to grow as leaders prepared to serve their communities. This event embodies our Benedictine values – especially hospitality – and continues to open doors for those seeking a faith-based, holistic education.”
The Gala is more than just a night out with friends and family in support of a good cause. Brownsberger says that these scholarships are vital to creating access for students who might not otherwise have access to a Saint Martin’s education.
In 2024 alone, the night raised $3.5 million. Those monies helped a student population of which nearly 40% are the first in their families to attend college.
“For 20 years, the Saint Martin’s Gala has opened doors for hundreds of students, providing access to a life-changing Catholic, Benedictine education,” shares Nate Peters, Saint Martin’s University interim vice president of institutional advancement and vice president of marketing and community. “It’s a powerful reminder of what generosity can accomplish, and we’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Chef Rick Bayless.”
Food, friends, fun and fundraising make the Gala superb
The Saint Martin’s culinary team from Bon Appetit Management Company enjoy providing for the Gala each year while working alongside such luminaries in the field.
General manager Carole Ann Beckwith says that they’re “honored to support the Saint Martin’s University Gala each year in its mission to expand access to education. This cherished event reflects our deep partnership with the University and our shared commitment to empowering students. It’s also a highlight for our culinary teams, who come together from across the Pacific Northwest to showcase the creativity and hospitality that are the hallmarks of our company.”
In the past, attendees and Bon Appetit staff have rubbed elbows with such cooking celebs as Pati Jinich, Anne Burrell, Jacques Pépin, Carla Hall and Roy Yamaguchi. Bayless describes the best food as “walking a tight-rope of flavor”, something the skilled Bon Appetit team does on a daily basis for faculty, staff, students and the community.
The Gala’s scholarships make a life changing impact on Saint Martin’s students
For more than 125 years, Saint Martin’s University has been a vital hub in our region. Their core values of community, hospitality, justice, listening and stewardship can be seen through the impacts of faculty and staff, sports teams, graduates and alumni.
Last year the school awarded more than $26 million in scholarships and aid to students, ensuring that 100% of those with a financial need receive support. The school is a 2025-2026 College of Distinction in many fields: military support, career development, Catholic practice and Washington State College of Distinction.
Events like the Saint Martin’s Gala help support their goals and look ahead to the next 125 years.
Don’t miss this special event on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in the Hal and Inge Marcus Pavilion on the University’s Lacey campus. This black-tie event features a five-course gourmet dinner, a silent and live auction and on-stage cooking demonstration at this night featuring nourishment for body and soul.
to secure your table, and several local hotels are offering special rates for attendees visiting from out of town. If you have questions about the event, call 360.438.4366 or email gala@stmartin.edu.
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Originally published in partnership with ThurstonTalk.com.
