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Gala of Stars 2025: Thank You!

We’re humbled to thank the sponsors and donors who attended our 23rd Annual Gala of Stars event in 2025.

Because of their profound generosity, we can continue to provide critical funds to our Concordia students, 100% of whom receive some form of financial aid. Every gift — and every prayer — helps them become wise, honorable, and cultivated citizens.

Concordia University Irvine Campus

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!

Explore the Vision

Join Us at Next Year’s Gala

Mark your calendar for the 24th Annual Gala of Stars, which will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Enjoy an evening of live entertainment, gourmet dining, and fellowship supporting Concordia University Irvine’s scholarships and programs.

Hosts and Honorees

  • Jo Ellen Chatham

    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.

  • David and Darrellyn Melilli

    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.

  • Charlie and Ling Zhang

    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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  • Doy Henley

    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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  • Sue Fleischli

    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.

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Gala of Stars Sponsors

Front & Center Table Sponsors

Mr. Craig and Mrs. Jane Olson
Pacific Campus Services

Gold Sponsors

DoyHenley
Voertman
Charlie and Ling Zhang

Silver Sponsors

Concordia Townsend Institute
Townsend Leadership
LCEF

Bronze Sponsors

harnacks donor
Cheryl
Mitch & Dona Thiessan
Kanahoma
Pacific Southwest District
iHeart Media
OC Music Dance
ocvibe donor

Educational Partner Sponsors

Crean Lutheran High School
Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School
Orange Lutheran High School

Become a Sponsor

Gala of Stars Sponsors

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

Fund-A-Need

No act of generosity is too small to make a difference.

Donate Today

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.

Nancy Palmer

Nancy Palmer
Assistant Director of Special Events 
(949) 214-3185
[email protected]

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