Frequently Asked Questions about the Gala & Auction
When and where is the Gala & Auction?
Saturday, February 22, 2025, at The Drake in Oak Brook.
How much are tickets?
Tickets are $250 per person. Ticket sales close on Tuesday, February 4.
What should I wear to the Gala & Auction?
This year’s event is black-tie optional, and we anticipate a wide range of attire. From suits and cocktail dresses to formal gowns and tuxes, and a whole lot of sparkle! We want you to be comfortable, have a good time, and Shine Bright!
Who do I sit with?
You can share your seating preference when purchasing your Gala tickets. There is an optional field at the top of the check-out page where you can note the names or group(s) levels you’d like to sit with. Alternatively, you can create a table among your friends and note the table name during check-out, similar to past years. We will make every effort to seat you according to your preference. If you have any questions, please contact Kathleen Flynn at kflynn@averycoonley.org.
Who attends the Annual Gala & Auction?
Everyone is invited! Our school families, teachers, staff, Board of Trustees, alumni, alumni families, grandparents, and guests are all invited. We also love to invite our generous sponsors to share in the celebration. All guests must be 21 or older.
Why should I attend the Annual Gala & Auction?
This is a night of celebration with friends while also supporting one of the most important fundraisers of the year. The funds raised are applied directly to the school and benefit every student and family at ACS.
What type of items can I donate?
Fine wines, gift cards, fun themed baskest, event & sport tickets, vacation homes, airline miles, unique experiences, electronics, dining experiences, private tours - the possibilities are endless.
How do I bid?
Bidding takes place online on the auction website using your phone. You will receive updates about your items throughout the night so you don’t miss out on the chance to win. A professional Auctioneer leads our live auction and the paddle raise. Other purchases are available in advance and at the event.
Can I advertise my business?
Yes! There are a variety of sponsorship opportunities with benefits including tickets to the event and a variety of year-round advertising opportunities.
Can I afford this event?
There are a variety of ways to participate in the Gala & Auction, from raffle opportunities to silent and live auctions. You can participate in remotely, even if you are not attending the event.
I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed after reading this!
Trust that the Gala & Auction is a warm and welcoming event and an awesome party that you will not want to miss. We are excited to spend time with you and get to know you better. The evening is a wonderful way to meet new ACS friends!
Evening Schedule
The night kicks off at 6:30pm with the Head of School's Reception at the Drake for members of Fleur de Lis, Corporate Sponsors, and Committee Chairs.
At 7:00pm, doors open to all guests as we begin with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, raffles, and silent auction bidding.
At 8:00pm, dinner begins, along with a short program including remarks from guest speaker Quetzali Lopez, ACS Class of 2015, and special recognition for parents of the graduating Class of 2025.
We continue the excitement with our live auction and Fund-A-Need paddle raise just after dinner. The paddle raise supports one unique, dedicated school initiative each year.
When all the bidding is done, the night closes with the raffle drawings. Guests check out to claim their auction and raffle winnings.
What does it mean?
Fleur de Lis
Fleur de Lis recognizes Gala & Auction supporters of $1,000 or more and is a critical factor in the event’s and school’s financial success. Fleur de Lis donors are philanthropic leaders who demonstrate significant and inspirational commitment to our ACS community. In recent years, FDL contributors consistently contributed more than $100,000 annually. There are several benefits to joining Fleur de Lis including special recognition in the printed Auction program and invitation to Dr. Montgomery’s Head of School Reception.
Class Baskets
School families are asked to donate $25 per student toward their child(ren)’s class basket. These funds are combined per group to create amazing raffle prizes for our students! As a surprise (shh!), every student will receive one ticket to enter the raffle of their choice.
Party Boutiques
Party Boutiques are small parties hosted by generous parent donors. Tickets to these parties are available for purchase on the Gala & Auction website and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis until the event is sold out. A variety of experiences are offered, and most party boutiques are geared toward adult participation. Occasional opportunities are offered to students and families. Watch for the Party Boutiques coming soon!
KEY CONTACTS
Carolyn Johnson, Director of Development - cjohnson@averycoonley.org or (630) 353-7218
Kathleen Flynn, Special Events and Donor Relations Coordinator - kflynn@averycoonley.org or (630) 353-7290
Sarah Perron, Associate Director of Development - sperron@averycoonley.org or (630) 353-7221
