Saint Elizabeth University to Launch Women’s Leadership Institute at 2026 Gala
April 23, 2026
Saint Elizabeth University (SEU) invites the community, alumnae/i, and friends to a landmark evening on May 1, 2026, as it hosts its annual Gala at The Meadow Wood in Randolph, NJ.
The 2026 Gala marks a historic milestone for the University: the official launch of the Sister Francis Raftery Institute for Women’s Leadership. Named in honor of the 14th President of the College of Saint Elizabeth, the Institute is designed to carry forward Sister Francis’s visionary legacy of empowering women to lead with integrity and purpose.
A New Chapter: The Raftery Institute
The Sister Francis Raftery Institute for Women’s Leadership is rooted in Catholic
Social Teaching with a mission to prepare and position women for transformative leadership
roles. By supporting the Institute, gala attendees help fund critical initiatives,
including:
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B.A. in Women's Leadership degree programs.
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Scholarships and dedicated internships.
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Mentorship and professional leadership programming.
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Faculty training and expanded community partnerships.
Celebrating Excellence: 2026 Honorees
The evening will feature the prestigious Saint Elizabeth University Hall of Fame induction and the Spirit of Saint Elizabeth Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the University’s core values of service and social responsibility.
2026 Hall of Fame Inductees
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Winifred (Markell) Johanson ’67: Pioneering technology leader and community advocate.
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Beth (Weller) Renyi ’69: Transformative philanthropist and faith-driven leader.
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Dr. Valerie A. (Del Tufo) Rowe ’69: Accomplished educator and literacy advocate.
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Linda Marie Flores-Tober ’81: Humanitarian leader serving families experiencing homelessness.
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Frances Weis-Garcia, Ph.D. ’87: Distinguished scientist in biomedical research.
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Jacklyn (Gise) Bezos ’91*: Visionary philanthropist and champion of early learning.
Spirit of Saint Elizabeth Award Recipients
This year, the University honors three organizations for their commitment to community vitality and transformative change:
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Morris County Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce: For championing entrepreneurship and economic advancement.
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Atlantic Health System: For visionary leadership in healthcare and its deep collaboration with SEU alumni.
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Roman Catholic Diocese of Paterson: For its enduring commitment to faith-based education and social outreach.
Event Logistics & Registration
We invite you to celebrate with us and help shape the future of women's leadership.
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Date: May 1, 2026
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Time: 6:00 p.m. Cocktails | 7:00 p.m. Dinner
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Location: The Meadow Wood, Randolph, NJ
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Dress Code: Formal
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Parking: Complimentary valet and self-parking available
Ticket Information
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General Registration: $150 (includes a $25 donation)
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Faculty & Staff: $75
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Recent Alumni & Religious: $50
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Sponsor a Student/Religious Member: $125
Sponsorship Opportunities
Corporate and individual sponsorships range from the Eagle Sponsor ($2,500) to the Seton Sponsor ($50,000), offering benefits such as reserved tables, journal advertisements, and social media promotion.
Register Today: Visit our website to secure your tickets or choose a sponsorship level. For dietary restrictions or specific questions, please contact gzieser@steu.edu.
Join us as we honor our past and invest in the future leaders of tomorrow.