Dear Families and Friends of St. Mark School and the Catholic Community of Buffalo, North,
We are thrilled to announce the Lionheart Auction 2026 – "Hollywood Nights! Lights. Camera, Auction!" will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026. This year, we have the distinct honor of celebrating two remarkable St. Mark organizations:
St. Mark Holy Name Society
St. Mark Home School Association
Both St. Mark organizations have dedicated themselves to shaping the future of St. Mark with unwavering commitment, service, leadership, and love. Their decades-long volunteerism and steadfast dedication have been the backbone in preserving our Parish and School. Lionheart 2026 is our opportunity to express our deepest gratitude and celebrate Holy Name’s and HSA’s incredible contributions to St. Mark. As always, Lionheart honors our AMAZING St. Mark Teachers every year - individuals who go above and beyond each day to nurture and inspire our students..
The Tradition of Lionheart
More than just a fundraiser, Lionheart is a time-honored tradition that unites our community and serves as a cornerstone of support for St. Mark School. Its success is a direct result of the dedication and generosity of our school families, parishioners, and local supporters.
Our 2026 theme celebrates the glamour and excitement of a red-carpet Hollywood premiere while also honoring over 100 years of St. Mark School tradition. More importantly, it is a call to action for our entire community to come together in support of our school’s future.
We Need Your Support!
Together, we must take action to ensure the next 100 years for St. Mark School!
If you have ideas, suggestions, or feedback, we would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at lionheart@saintmarkschool.com.
Whether you are a seasoned Lionheart attendee or new to the event, your participation is essential to its success. A Lionheart 101 flyer was sent to school families to help guide Lionheart newcomers. We also encourage past attendees to share their best Lionheart memories with others!
This year’s event promises great music, an open bar, delicious food from local restaurants, and exciting auction items—a night not to be missed! We are also excited to bring back the beloved all-inclusive Teacher Trip giveaway and look forward to sharing more exciting announcements as Lionheart approaches.
Support St. Mark School – Lionheart Sponsorships & Donations
Calling all businesses! Showcase your business or employer while supporting St. Mark School through:
➢ Lionheart Sponsorships
➢ Program Ads
➢ Silent & Live Auction Donations
Your generosity plays a crucial role in the success of this event, and we greatly appreciate your support.
Gift Gathering Parties – Join the Fun!
Our Gift Gathering Parties are just days away! These parties are a wonderful way to meet fellow parents, reconnect with friends, and contribute to the Lionheart Auction. Our Lionheart Gift Gathering Party Calendar will be published soon!
Each party has a theme, with attendees asked to bring a gift valued at $50 for the silent auction. Cash and check donations are also accepted. For convenience, a Lionheart Amazon Gift Registry is available on Amazon. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our party hosts and look forward to seeing you there!
Volunteers Needed!
With over 500 attendees, Lionheart depends on the generosity of our volunteers. From pre-event preparations to on-site event support, every helping hand makes a difference. Opportunities to get involved will be shared through Room Parents and email updates.
How Can You Take ACTION for Lionheart This Year?
➢ Volunteer in any capacity
➢ Donate auction items, time, or expertise
➢ Share the excitement and invite friends to join
➢ Co-host or attend a Gift Gathering Party
➢ Become a sponsor or encourage your employer to support
➢ Attend Lionheart and have a fantastic time
➢ Bid on auction items and raise your Paw Paddle
➢ Encourage friendly competition in the auction for a great cause
➢ Enjoy an incredible evening celebrating Holy Name, Home School, and our AMAZING Teachers, and the entire St. Mark community!
Thank you for your continued support in making Lionheart 2026 the best one yet!
Sincerely,
Your 2026 Lionheart Committee, our Cast of Stars
Liz & Bill Bevilacqua
Kaitlyn & Tommy Browne
Katie & Gwilym Brick
Vera & Keith Carlino
Erin & John Gerken
Colleen & Ryan Liddell
Kate & Matt Maleski
Kate & Nick Mineo
Anna & Kevin O'Brien
Mary & Patrick O’Sullivan, St. Mark Class of 1996
Braden Pritchard, Esq., St. Mark Class of 2014
Caitlin Powalski
Bridget & Patrick Ryan
Elizabeth & Jack Turner
Legacy Stars:
Carol & Ed Corr
John & Ruthann Daly
Megan & Ted Gallagher
Chrissy & Christopher Murphy, Esq.
Dan & Sandy Ryan
Madonna & Mark Spitler, Esq.
Directed by Susan Gambino, Director of Advancement
