Decorations and food are being scaled back (although the French-themed menu prepared by the campus chef still includes an elegant selection of hors d'oeuvres and entrees). Instead of hiring bartenders, 17 members of the school's Father's Guild have volunteered for duty.
"Especially this year, if people are going to come to an event and bid, they need to see that everything possible is done to see funds go back to the school and student body," said event co-chair Lorylle Ketterer.
Proceeds will support financial aid. This year, 30% of the freshman class received some assistance, compared with 18% two years ago, said Loyola's president, Father Gregory Goethals.
Other schools looking to expand their fundraising efforts are casting wider nets. The Webb Schools in Claremont are mounting a fundraising campaign that mirrors the international makeup of the institution's student body. Fundraising events were recently held in Seoul and Hong Kong to help attract donations from alumni and parents in those cities, said Joe Woodward, Webb's director of development.
The school's main fundraising event -- this year titled "Disco Fever" -- was held Saturday at South Hills Country Club and included live and silent auctions.
Going off campus
Brentwood School is holding its annual auction at the Hollywood and Highland complex in May, featuring a disc jockey and food by Wolfgang Puck. The school estimates it will save about one-third of the costs by moving the event off campus and avoiding rent for lighting and heaters and kitchen facilities, said Mary Sidell, Brentwood's director of institutional advancement.
Proceeds this year will go toward financial aid.
"We're assuming not only will there be a need for new families, but we also want to try as best we can to address current families who may not have needed help before," Sidell said. "If a family has been here for four or five years, they are our first loyalty."
The Windward School in West Los Angeles is staging a Caribbean Casino-themed event on May 2 at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. Tickets are $150, but this year families have the option of paying a reduced price. The event will include the ubiquitous auction, with bids beginning at $50 so that more families can participate.
Bringing it home
