Bellarmine College Prep held its 48th Golden Bell Auction on campus the evening of March 9, with 400 guests in attendance. The annual event benefits the school’s Direct Tuition Assistance Fund, providing support for 25 percent of Bellarmine’s students.
Prior to the start of the Golden Bell, Mass was held in the Leontyne Chapel with Fr. Mario Prietto S.J., superior of the Bellarmine Jesuit Community, presiding. A VIP reception was held for sponsors of the event in the Samuel A. Liccardo Campus Center, while guests enjoyed a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception in the Hall of Honor and foyer of the Patrick Wayne Valley Memorial Gymnasium, the same venue in which the program and dinner took place.
The meal was prepared by Bellarmine chef Jeremy Soulia and his crew, music was provided by The Speakeasies, and Mark Alman was the auctioneer during a high-energy live auction that featured unique items and experiences, including trips to Japan, England, and New York, where the winners will enjoy seeing alumnus Ryan Vasquez ’10 perform in the Broadway production of The Notebook.
Among the many highlights of the evening was when student Noel Diaz ’24 addressed the audience sharing a reflection about his time at Bellarmine and thanking everyone for their support of the school.
The 48th Golden Bell Auction was presented by the Office of Advancement, members of which are grateful for the stellar support of all the participants, sponsors, volunteers, and colleagues who ensured a wonderful event.