Their spectacular Spring Benefit was a most significant event of Benedictine’s 50th anniversary year. Always one of the Eastern Shore’s premiere fundraising events, this year’s gala in support of individuals with developmental disabilities was a once-in-a-lifetime celebration at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay in Cambridge, Maryland. The event, held Saturday evening, April 25, was the biggest and best Spring Benefit yet. Over 360 people attended and experienced a very special evening of recollection and recognition of all that has been accomplished by the Sisters of St. Benedict and the school’s professional staff. More than $509,000 was raised to continue the school’s mission of improving the lives of people with special needs.
“Spring Benefit has always been about fulfilling our calling to improve the lives of these wonderful people,” said Benedictine’s Director, Sister Jeannette Murray, O.S.B., “and that is true this 50th year more than ever, as we look back over the years fondly, and look ahead to the future with excitement.” Sister Jeannette was given a special award to honor her 50 years of service. She was also featured in a special video premiered Saturday evening which dramatically showed the school’s founding and development and included a message from TV host Jay Leno. The love and pioneering expertise which characterize Benedictine’s care for individuals with disabilities was evident throughout the moving presentation.
Keynote Speaker Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman of Special Olympics International, delivered a dynamic address urging greater support for and inclusion of special needs individuals, as well as recognizing and encouraging their gifts. “The Benedictine School’s model needs to be the standard everywhere,” Dr. Shriver said, “not just one place.” Audrey Hall, Special Olympics athlete and Benedictine student, introduced Dr. Shriver and presented him with a gift of one of her professionally framed photographs.
In another highlight of the event, Sister Jeannette presented the “Cornerstone Award” to the family of Charles and Catherine Knott, lifelong benefactors of the Benedictine School. Builder Henry Knott’s company constructed many of Benedictine’s original buildings; others were added under Charlie Knott’s guidance during his 30 years of service to the school, including 10 years as President of the Board of Directors. Charlie’s wife Kitty continued their generous financial support for many more years. Without the Knott family, the Benedictine School as it stands today would not exist. Charlie Knott, Jr. accepted the award on behalf of the family. State Delegates Adelaide C. Eckardt and Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio also presented signed resolutions from the Maryland State Senate and House of Delegates in honor of Benedictine’s 50 years of service.
About Benedictine Programs and Services
Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Benedictine Programs and Services is a nationally recognized, accredited and cost-effective educational living and learning environment for children and adults with special needs. The Benedictine School, established in 1959 and managed by the Sisters of St. Benedict, is a fully approved, non-sectarian school for 92 children, ages 5 through 21, with intellectual disabilities, multiple disabilities and autism. The Benedictine Open Community Program serves adults ages 22 - 60+, offering community-based group-home living and vocational training. The Benedictine Foundation secures the financial resources needed to ensure the future of Benedictine’s programs, services and other activities.
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