Each year, there are moments in the life of our community that call us out of the busyness of the day and invite us into a shared sense of purpose. These are moments that encourage us to look beyond what we are doing and reflect on who we are becoming and what we are building together.
Our Lasallian Dinner & Auction is one of those meaningful moments for our CBA community.
On Saturday, April 18th, we will gather for the 37th Annual Lasallian Dinner & Auction. This year, our theme, Faith Lights Up the Future, is more than a title. It is our mission in action.
At CBA, we do not seek to create something new within our students. Rather, we recognize that each young person already carries within them a light given by God, full of dignity, purpose, and possibility. Our role, as educators and as a community, is to help that light emerge, to nurture it, and to create the conditions for it to shine.
In this way, CBA has always been called to be a light, not only for our students, but for the world they will go on to shape.
Honoring a Legacy of Faith, Service, and Community
The strength of our mission is found in those who choose to carry that light forward, day after day. On April 18th at 4:30 PM, in the Dan Byrne ’70 Performing Arts Center, we will gather for the Purple & Gold Award Ceremony as we honor two individuals whose lives reflect that legacy in profound and lasting ways. This portion of the evening is open to all and offers our community the opportunity to come together in gratitude and recognition.
Following the ceremony, the evening will continue with the Lasallian Dinner & Auction, where our honorees will once again be recognized as we gather in support of the Lasallian mission at CBA.
Thomas Niland III ’65
Tom’s life is a powerful witness to the Lasallian value of Faith expressed through service. A Marine Corps officer and business leader, he has spent decades forming young people through quiet mentorship and steady presence, always with a deep love for CBA and its mission. Across generations, he has reminded students that true character is defined by what we do when no one is watching. His legacy is found in the countless lives he has shaped, quietly helping others grow in confidence, purpose, and strength.
Vincent V. Sportelli ’71
Vince’s life exemplifies the power of Service and Community. For more than 35 years, he has used his professional gifts in healthcare to care for our student-athletes while offering extraordinary leadership within the CBA Alumni Association. His strategic vision and passionate commitment to the Alumni Golf Tournament have strengthened one of the school’s most important traditions, ensuring its continued growth and impact. Through his leadership and generosity, he has helped ensure that the light of a CBA education continues to reach future generations.
Your Invitation to the Future
The Purple & Gold Award reminds us that a life lived for others is the greatest light of all. But even the brightest light requires a community to keep it burning.
I invite you to join us on April 18th, whether for the Purple & Gold Award Ceremony, the Dinner & Auction, or both. Together, these moments reflect the heart of who we are as a Lasallian community.
When you choose to remain for the Dinner & Auction, you are part of something more than an event. You are helping to ensure that the light entrusted to each of our students continues to grow and shine.
There are still opportunities to be part of this effort. If you are able to contribute an item such as a vacation property, an experience, or a donation from our Amazon wishlist, we would be deeply grateful. Items can be dropped off at the main office.
We are also still seeking volunteers to assist with setup, event activities, and cleanup. Your time and presence make a meaningful difference in bringing this evening to life.
I am deeply grateful for the way you carry the Lasallian spirit into the world each day. I look forward to being together as we celebrate our past and continue to carry that light forward into the future.
St. John Baptist de La Salle… pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts… forever.
Mr. Matthew Keough
President, Christian Brothers Academy
