A tradition like no other – Messenger News

The 43rd annual Friends of St. Edmond Ball took place on May 9, 2026, at the Laramar Ballroom. The event, themed A Tradition Like No Other, was organized by co-chairs JB Bunda, Laura Bunda, Jen Crimmins and Jake Crimmins.

Laura Bunda stated that the theme was selected to reflect the spirit of a renowned spring golf tournament, noting that the ball is rooted in tradition and strengthened by the generations who have supported it.

The event has been held every May since 1983. Proceeds from the ball are allocated toward the operating costs of the school, specifically providing support for teachers and funding campus improvements.

The evening began at 6:45 p.m. With a presentation for the Spirit of St. Edmond Awards. This year’s recipients included Doug Smith, an alumnus; Pat and Jane O’Rouke, past parents; and Wally and Nadine Schlienz, family members.

Additional awards were presented to faculty member Paula Nemmers-Skarich and Tonya Lawler for superior service. Tom Miklo was honored with the James R. Bocken Distinguished Service Award.

Fundraising efforts included a silent auction that opened on the Thursday prior to the event and closed on May 9, 2026. Further bidding on select items commenced at 8:30 p.m. On the night of May 9.

Major auction items included a trip for four people to the PGA Tour Phoenix Waste Management Tournament and a dinner for eight prepared by the Rev. Jake Rosenmeyer and Monsignor Kevin McCoy.

Other offerings included a weekend trip to Chicago for four people to attend a Morgan Wallen performance and a Chicago Cubs game, as well as four tickets and hotel rooms in Chicago for a college football game between Notre Dame and Stanford.