The Catholic Foundation is excited to announce that the 43rd Annual Cornerstone Gala will be honoring Adrian Dominican Sisters Lois Paha, OP, and Charlotte Anne Swift, OP!
The annual Cornerstone Gala is a highly anticipated event that brings together the community, donors, and supporters in the spirit of fellowship and philanthropy within the Diocese of Tucson. This elegant occasion serves to build awareness and secure vital funding in support of the Cornerstone Fund. Amidst the celebrations, the Gala also take a moment to honor an outstanding local Catholic leader, recognizing their remarkable contributions to the community and their unwavering commitment to uplifting others. With a program featuring fine dining, entertainment, and heartwarming stories, the Gala fosters a sense of fellowship and unity, leaving a lasting impression on all who participate.
About the Cornerstone Award
The Catholic Foundation's Cornerstone Award is a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact in advancing the religious, charitable, and educational needs of Southern Arizona's Catholic communities.
The Cornerstone Award is the Foundation's way of recognizing those who have exemplified the spirit of generosity and selflessness in their work to advance the Catholic faith and improve the lives of those in the community. The award represents a deep appreciation for the honoree's service and a recognition of their outstanding achievements. Each year, a new honoree is awarded at the Foundation's annual Cornerstone Gala.
2025 Gala Committee
Benefitting the Cornerstone Fund
The Cornerstone Fund is a board-advised fund, which provides emergency support in the form of grants for the most pressing needs of the Diocese of Tucson, in the areas of religious, educational, and charitable works.
The Fund is supported by a diverse range of sources, including individual donors, bequests, proceeds from the annual Cornerstone Gala, and other contributions in alignment with the Gift Acceptance Policies of the Catholic Foundation.
Sponsorship Levels
Presenting - $15,000
- VIP seating for 12 individuals
- Special recognition from the podium and on-screen during the event
- Full-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
- Logo/company name featured on the centerpieces
- Special recognition on the Foundation’s website and social media
Honoree Circle - $10,000
- Priority seating for 10 individuals
- Special recognition from the podium and on-screen during the event
- Full-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
- Special recognition on the Foundation’s website and social media
Gold - $5,000
- Seating for 10 individuals
- Special recognition from the podium and on-screen during the event
- Full-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
Silver - $4,000
- Seating for 10 individuals
- Special recognition on-screen during the event
- Half-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
Bronze - $3,000
- Seating for 10 individuals
- Half-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
Copper - $1,500
- Seating for 4 individuals
- Half-page color congratulatory ad in the event program
Individuals in attendance who are part of the Catholic Foundation’s Acts of the Apostles Society will receive special recognition on-screen during the event.
Past Cornerstone Honorees
- 1987 Most Reverend Francis J. Green, D.D.
- 1988 Ora DeConcini-Martin
- 1989 Reverend Monsignor Don H. Hughes, P.A., Reg T. Morrison, and Elizabeth Ann Parkman
- 1990 Sister Joan Willert, C.S.J.
- 1991 Governor Rose Mofford
- 1992 Most Reverend Manuel D. Moreno, D.D.
- 1993 The O’Rielly Family
- 1994 Catholic Community Services
- 1995 Native American Missions
- 1996 Catholic Schools in Southern Arizona
- 1997 Diocese of Tucson Centennial Celebration
- 1998 Priests of the Diocese of Tucson
- 1999 Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Tucson
- 2000 Parishes of the Diocese of Tucson
- 2001 The Honorary Members of the Foundation – 20th Anniversary
- 2002 Most Reverend Manuel D. Moreno, D.D. – Cornerstone Fund
- 2003 Religious Women throughout the Diocese of Tucson
- 2004 Esther Don Tang and Joel Valdez
- 2005 Dr. Peter & Pat Likins
- 2006 Celebration of Catholic Foundation 25th Anniversary
- 2007 Most Reverend Gerald F. Kicanas and Reverend Edward Carscallen
- 2008 Reverend Monsignor Robert Fuller+ and Ginny Clements
- 2009 Jannie Cox, Elena d’Autremont, and Ann S. Dickson
- 2010 Reverend Monsignors Thomas Cahalane, Thomas Millane, Richard O’Keeffe, Todd O’Leary, and Van Wagner
- 2011 The Honorable John M. Roll
- 2012 Knights of Columbus
- 2013 Ernest Nedder and Catholic Extension
- 2014 Sr. Rosa Maria Ruiz, Superintendent of Schools, and Principals of the Diocese of Tucson
- 2015 Angel Charity for Children, Inc., and Permanent Deacons of the Diocese of Tucson
- 2016 Most Reverend Gerald F. Kicanas
- 2017 Patronato San Xavier and the Norville Family
- 2018 Czarina and Humberto Lopez
- 2019 Sisters of Saint Joseph of Carondelet, and Reverend Monsignor Jeremiah McCarthy
- 2021 Marguerite “Peg” Harmon and Gracie Quiroz Marum
- 2022 Jean Fedigan
- 2023 Reverend Monsignor Domenico Pinti
- 2024 Deacon Tony Underwood