On Wednesday, August 27, the Cardinal Newman community gathered at the Mary Immaculate Reception Hall for the first Gala Committee Meeting of Newman Night 2026. Guests enjoyed a Buongiorno Breakfast with cappuccinos and pastries, a delicious introduction to this year’s theme: La Dolce Vita—the Sweet Life.
President Charles Stembler opened the morning in prayer before Gala Co-Chairs unveiled the theme and shared a calendar of pre-gala festivities. Committee members connected over Italian music and tables decorated with vintage travel posters, embracing the charm and spirit of La Dolce Vita.
This year’s Co-Chairs are Jennifer Hendrix, Monique Javarone, Mary Cullen Lombardi, Emanuela Marcello, and Laura Smeenge, with Rocco and Jennifer Marcello serving as Honorary Chairs. Together, they will lead Cardinal Newman’s largest fundraising event—Newman Night 2026, celebrating the school’s 65th anniversary on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Kravis Center. Proceeds will support Cardinal Newman’s mission of faith, scholarship, and service.
Co-Chair Emanuela Marcello shared the inspiration behind the theme:
“Dolce Vita means the Sweet Life—embracing beauty and simplicity, cherishing family and friends, and savoring the small moments of life. For us, La Dolce Vita reflects our journey as friends and moms, and it is also the perfect theme to honor the Cardinal Newman community, which is rooted in faith, family, and friendships.”
Save the Dates – Gala Festivities
Save the Dates – Gala Festivities
Sept. 24 | 6:00 pm | Café L’Europe – A Toast to the Dolce Crew (invitation-only for committee members)
Oct. 1 | 8:00 am | Palm Beach – 2nd Annual Shop It Like It’s Hot Trolley Day
Nov. 13 | 6:00 pm | Marcello Residence – A Sweet Beginning Underwriting Celebration
Dec. 3 | 5:00 pm | Tide & Table – Christmas Sip & Shop
Jan. 15 | 11:00 am | Location TBD – Ciao Bella Luncheon
Feb. 19 | 5:00 pm | Joseph’s Classic Market – Salute! Wine Tasting
Mar. 7 | 6:00 pm | Kravis Center – Newman Night 2026: La Dolce Vita
Everyone is invited to join the celebration—whether attending, volunteering, or sponsoring—there are countless ways to be part of this La Dolce Vita journey. For more information, click here or email Mary.Martens@cardinalnewman.com.
FIRST GALA COMMITTEE MEETING
