Gala of Stars
April 25, 2026
Concordia Campus
We provide critical funds to our Concordia students, 100% of whom receive some form of financial aid.
The 24th Annual Gala of Stars
Mark your calendar for an evening of live entertainment, gourmet dining, and fellowship supporting Concordia University Irvine’s scholarships and programs.
For nearly 50 years our God has been at work guiding Concordia’s mission to develop wise, honorable, and cultivated citizens to serve both society and the church.
Grateful Support
We are grateful to gather each year to support Concordia’s students, and in 2025, we raised over $1 million!
We also advanced Vision 2025, a $50 million initiative to create a renovated and expanded CU Center for Worship and the Performing Arts, as well as a new Golden Eagle Fitness & Training Center. These projects are key to enriching student life, strengthening our mission, and preparing future leaders in faith and service. And with more than $47 million already raised, we’re almost there!
Hosts and Honorees
2026 Servant Leadership Award Rev. Dr. Steve Mueller ’86
For decades, Rev. Dr. Steve Mueller has helped shape the heart and mission of Concordia University Irvine, and his life reflects a deep commitment to faith formation, theological clarity, and service to the Church
From his days as a Christ College student to his current role as Chief Mission Officer, Mueller has faithfully served Concordia as a theology professor, dean, and member of Concordia’s administrative team. His contributions as a hymn writer and author on Christian doctrine, the Lutheran Confessions, worship, and C.S. Lewis have been far-reaching within The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod and beyond.
2025 Gala of Stars Host Mrs. Jo Ellen Chatham
Jo Ellen Chatham has served as the director of Concordia University Irvine’s Center for Civics Education since 2019. Jo Ellen is Co-Chair of USA250-OC, which is engaging citizens and residents of Orange County in commemorating and celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
2025 Servant Leadership Award David and Darrellyn Melilli
For their commitment to the arts community in Southern California for more than 60 years, Concordia University Irvine is pleased to honor David and Darrellyn Melilli. This award is presented to an individual or couple who, through their God-given talents, has made a difference in the lives of others.
2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Charlie and Ling Zhang
For their commitment to higher education in Orange County and their philanthropic work in the Arts community, Concordia University Irvine is pleased to honor and recognize Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Ling Zhang with the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award at our 22nd annual Gala of Stars.
2023 Lifetime Achievement Award Doy Henley
For his commitment to higher education in Orange County and his philanthropic work in the Lutheran community, Concordia University Irvine is pleased to honor and recognize Mr. Doy Henley with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award at our 21st annual Gala of Stars.
2023 Servant Leadership Award Mrs. Sue Fleischli
Concordia University Irvine is very pleased to announce that Sue Fleischli has been selected as the recipient of Concordia’s 2023 Servant Leadership Award for her dedication to Concordia University Irvine, as professor, supporter, friend, and Auction Queen Extraordinaire. Sue is truly a Christian example for all of us.
Gala of Stars Sponsors
Front & Center Table Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Educational Partner Sponsors
Sponsorship Opportunities
Presenting Sponsor ($25,000)
- Front row table for 10 guests
- Name in title rights in promotional materials and program
- Name and/or logo included in all available promotions for the event
- Inclusion in university press releases surrounding the event
- Name and/or logo inclusion on all onsite event signage and collateral
- One full-page/4-color ad in the program
- Vocal recognition at the event
- Table signage at the event
- Sponsor recognition and listing in the program
- Inclusion in the Concordia Pacesetter Club
Platinum Sponsor ($15,000)
- Front row table for 10 guests
- Name and/or logo included in all available promotions for the event
- Inclusion in university press releases surrounding the event
- One full-page/4-color ad in the program
- Vocal recognition at the event
- Table signage at the event
- Sponsor recognition and listing in the program
- Inclusion in the Concordia Pacesetter Club
Gold Sponsor ($10,000)
- Full table of 10
- Name and/or logo included in all available promotions for the event
- Inclusion in university press releases surrounding the event
- One full-page/4-color ad in the program
- Vocal recognition at the event
- Table signage at the event
- Sponsor recognition and listing in the program
- Inclusion in the Concordia Pacesetter Club
Silver Sponsor ($5,000)
- Full table of 10
- Name and/or logo included in all available promotions for the event
- Inclusion in university press releases surrounding the event
- Name and/or logo inclusion on all onsite event signage and collateral
- One half-page/4-color ad in the program
- Table signage at the event
- Sponsor recognition and listing in the program
- Inclusion in the Concordia Pacesetter Club
Bronze Sponsor ($3,500)
- Full table of 10
- Name and/or logo included in all available promotions for the event
- Sponsor recognition and listing in the program
- Inclusion in the Concordia Pacesetter Club
2025 Gala Photos
Fund-A-Need
No act of generosity is too small to make a difference.
Contact Us
For more information about the Gala of Stars, or to learn more about our sponsorship packages and benefits, please feel free to contact us directly.