Saturday, October 24, 2026

6:00-10:00 p.m.

Cristo Rey Columbus High School

We are thrilled to recognize Steve and Catherine Kennedy as our 2026 Honorees.

Steve and Catherine are a power couple, and luckily for students everywhere, they have a passion for access to and equity in education. The Kennedys have been dedicated supporters of Cristo Rey Columbus since 2015. Having met during their undergraduate days at Denison, they are proud Big Red alumni who also regularly give back to their own high schools (St. Xavier Cincinnati and Upper Arlington) and those of their two children (St. Charles and Upper Arlington). Catherine is a creative writer and a former children’s publishing editor who is an active community organizer in the education and belonging space. She is a member of the Upper Arlington Education Foundation Board of Trustees. Steve previously served on the Cristo Rey Columbus Board of Trustees, where he was Board Chair from 2017 to 2020, and continues to lend his leadership as a member of the Finance Committee. Since 2020, Steve’s company, VIUM Capital, has partnered with our Professional Work-Study Program, providing students with invaluable hands-on professional experience, and he has been a tireless advocate for the program, influencing several other work-study partners and underwriters to join our ranks.

In addition to Cristo Rey Columbus, Steve and Catherine support several other local organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Ohio and the Upper Arlington Historical Society, where Catherine has served at a Board member for both organizations, and St. Mary School in German Village, where Steve serves as a Board Trustee. Steve is also the current Board President of Scioto Country Club.

Through their generous support, meaningful connections within the community, and ongoing engagement at school events, Steve and Catherine have played an instrumental role in advancing the mission of Cristo Rey Columbus. Their impact on our students and school community will continue to be felt for years to come.

Questions? Contact:

Emily Eaton, Advancement Manager

[email protected] | 614-223-9261 ext. 039

The Back-to-School Experience

Held at Cristo Rey Columbus 

• Begin by taking a short bus ride to our beautiful school building, accompanied by our student ambassadors.
• After arriving at school, check in to receive your homeroom assignment, then enjoy light refreshments while you mingle with students and fellow guests.
• When the bell rings, head to your homeroom to experience a meaningful and inspiring panel discussion featuring student and alumni speakers!

The After School Experience

Held at Columbus Metropolitan Library, Main Branch

• Once the panel discussions conclude, class is dismissed and it’s time to party! Student ambassadors will lead the way next door to the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s Main Branch.
• Inside the spacious indoor event space, enjoy food, open bars, and ample seating.
• During our short program, share in our mission and hear from 2026 Honorees, Steve and Catherine Kennedy, and Alumni Speaker, Elonga Bashombana ‘22.
• Cap off the exciting evening with continued refreshments, lively music, and plenty of space to dance the night away!