The school’s third annual flagship fundraiser takes shape.
The third annual Craic & Ceol is poised to become another celebratory cornerstone for Donahue Academy. The 2025-2026 academic year saw the Grammar Stage (Grades Pre-K to 5) double in size. It has been a joy to welcome so many new families to the school. So, fittingly, this year’s theme, “Growing in Love,” celebrates the growth and unity of the school community.
But, what is a Craic + Ceól? In Ireland, the land of the Shamrock, craic (pronounced “crack”) is a fun and lively social event, and ceól (sounds like “you’ll” with a “k” in front: “kyul”) is music. At Donahue Academy, the Craic + Ceól is a fun and lively event with music and dancing, dinner, silent auction, a cigar and whiskey bar, and genuine fellowship. It is also a venue to thoughtfully embody the school’s unique identity. The design for this year’s event was inspired by Our Lady of Lourdes. The color palette draws inspiration from the famous chocolatier Ferrero Rocher. Rocher means “rock” in French. The iconic chocolate’s design is inspired by the The Grotto of Massabielle in Lourdes, France, where Our Blessed Mother appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. Mrs. Liz Lavandera, Event Coordinator, says “the rich chocolate tones remind us of the earth and the intentional design of God’s creation, while the gold reflects God’s light and the Eucharist. Each of us is uniquely created, in His image, yet beautifully united in His love.”
This year’s design will also feature a live tree representing the school’s community. The trunk symbolizes faculty and staff; the branches represent families, and the leaves reflect students. Taken together, it symbolizes how the community is rooted in Christ and growing in love and unity. Mrs. Lavandera continues, “it is our hope that the event’s design and the love behind it are felt by all who join us.” Mr. Wil Hampton, Director of Advancement, echoes this vision: “Donahue Academy is a special school and cornerstone of our town. It is also here that our community grows stronger in its Catholic identity, through the many devoted families who aspire for a rigorous education in both fidelity and academics. We must continue raise funds so that we can continue to accommodate parish families and the development of our students.” Mr. Hampton says that though the event is well underway, thanks to leading sponsor Wright Construction and many small businesses and families who have stepped up, there are still ways to sponsor the event, especially the music! “I hope parishioners can join us for good fun and a lively auction of great items. Come be a Shamrock!” charged Mr. Hampton. We pray you will consider attending or sponsoring this worthy cause!
