Saturday, April 25th

Concordia University Irvine
1530 Concordia West Irvine, CA 92612

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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 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.
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. The Center is dedicated to promoting civil dialogue, providing educational and inspiring programs devoted to our nation's history and foundational principles, and encouraging informed citizen engagement. 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. This award is presented to an individual or couple who, through their God-given talents, has made a difference in the lives of others.

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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. This award is presented to an individual or couple who, through their God-given talents, has made a difference in the lives of others.

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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