Co-chairs T.J. Couch and The Honorable Victor Crist with Cristo Rey Tampa President Scott Morreale and student Master of Ceremonies Christian ’23 and Regina ’22.

Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School & Corporate Work Study Program held its first annual event, the Reys of Hope – An Evening of Firsts, on Friday, November 5, at Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club.

Led by Co-chairs T.J. Couch and The Honorable Victor Crist, Reys of Hope was a magical night. Hosts for the evening were student stars Christian A. ’23 and Regina C. ’22, who kicked off the event by recognizing distinguished guests and acknowledging the work and commitment of the co-chairs.

Cristo Rey Tampa Board Chairman Jeff Sparling of Ernst & Young, a national supporter of Cristo Rey, took to the podium and shared his experience as a Corporate Work Study Program Partner. “I can see firsthand the impact the school has on the children in our community. It amazes me to see the eagerness of these students,” said Sparling.  He also encouraged guests to become involved with Cristo Rey Tampa’s mission and visit the campus for a tour.

President Scott Morreale honored Co-chairs T.J. Couch and The Honorable Victor Crist with the President’s Appreciation Award for their continued support and generosity. In addition, Morreale thanked all those in attendance for their commitment to Cristo Rey Tampa and shared the growth to date of the school. In closing, he echoed the sentiment of the chair and exclaimed, “we need you now more than ever.”

The evening celebration continued with a live auction, food, and drink while guests supported the Cristo Rey mission by bidding on a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. “This evening was the first opportunity to come together in months to celebrate our students and to share our school’s achievements, ” said Development Director Terri Parnell-Longphee.

All proceeds from the Reys of Hope – An Evening of Firsts will go towards the needs of a growing school. As Cristo Rey Tampa continues to serve the needs of students with limited economic resources, the physical plant and curriculum must expand to address the needs of the students. This event will help fund classroom furniture for three new classrooms, a bus to transport students to school and work, and help more students create a path to success in college, work, and life.

Thank you to the sponsors who made the Reys of Hope – An Evening of Firsts evening possible:

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