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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 2026, we raised over $1 million!

We also celebrated the success of Vision 2025, a $50 million initiative that helped bring to life a renovated and expanded CU Center for Worship and the Performing Arts, as well as the new Golden Eagle Fitness & Training Center. These transformational projects enrich student life, strengthen our mission, and create spaces where our community can grow and thrive. As we look ahead, our focus now turns to the next exciting project—a new outdoor amphitheatre. With less than $3 million left to raise, we are excited to continue building spaces that bring the Concordia community together.

Become a Sponsor

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.

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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.

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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

Become a Sponsor

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

Gala of Stars Recap

CONCORDIA’S 24TH ANNUAL Gala of Stars officially kicked off the University’s celebration of its 50th anniversary, and raised $1 million…