When One Door Opens, a Future Follows
Aug Prep's 8th Annual Scholarship Gala Raises $2.5 Million for Students.
June 3, 2026
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Building Futures Together
On May 7, 2026, more than 700 guests from across the greater Milwaukee area gathered at Aug Prep for our 8th Annual Scholarship Gala. Together, they celebrated the transformational impact of our school and invested in the futures of more than 1,000 students.
The evening began in the We Energies Commons with hors d'oeuvres and performances from our WSMA-accredited Guitar Ensemble and the debut of our Jazz Ensemble. Guests then entered a beautifully transformed gym honoring both Aug Prep South and the legacy of Cardinal Stritch, home to our North campus.
Throughout the evening, guests heard powerful stories from students, school leaders, and our award recipients, Northwestern Mutual (Founders Award) and Julie Tolan (Friends Award), whose support continues to open doors for Milwaukee families.
What Happens When One Door Opens?
This year's gala theme came to life through the story of Widalys.
Years ago, she sought a better future for her children, Jazzy and Elijah. Through Aug Prep, she not only supported their educational journey but also earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees. After serving as an Instructional Assistant, she now steps into a new role as Aug Prep's Spiritual Life and Discipleship Coordinator.
Her story served as a powerful reminder that when opportunities are created for students, the impact extends far beyond the classroom, it transforms families and strengthens communities.
A Community Investing in the Future
As the paddle raise began, guests responded with overwhelming generosity. By the end of the evening, our community had raised an incredible $2.5 million in support of Aug Prep students.
As guests left for the evening, they carried with them a simple but powerful truth:
When one door opens, a future—and a community—follows.