International Gala 2026 Recap

On Saturday, March 21, the International School of Indiana community gathered at the Indiana State Museum for its signature fundraising event, the International Gala. This year’s Gala embraced a Futuristic theme—an intentional nod to the ONE Future Capital Campaign and the bold investment we are making in our campus, as well as the limitless futures taking shape within every ISI student.

Head of School Liz reflected on an exciting period of momentum for ISI, highlighting the public launch of the ONE Future capital campaign. While celebrating this milestone, she emphasized that the evening’s focus was equally important: supporting the Annual Fund, which directly invests in students and sustains ISI’s distinctive experience, including universal participation in the International Baccalaureate program and the school’s language immersion model.

Gala co-chairs and ISI parents Rachel and Frank Stevens shared why ISI holds such a special place in their family’s life, while Board Chair Alonzo Weems thanked donors for their generous support. ISI parent Chris Waters returned to lead the Live Auction and Raise the Paddle, energizing the room and inspiring enthusiastic participation.

Throughout the evening, attendees heard directly from students in meaningful and memorable ways. Lifesize cutouts and centerpieces featuring students included QR codes linking to personal video messages, offering guests a glimpse into their voices and experiences. A special video also highlighted students sharing recorded messages to their future selves, adding a thoughtful and inspiring moment. The program was further enriched by senior class MCs, who reflected on their journeys at ISI and the impact the school has had on their growth.

The energy in the room was unmistakable—an inspiring reflection of a community united in its commitment to ensuring ISI’s continued growth and success.

FUNDRAISING HIGHLIGHTS

• Proceeds for this year’s event totaled $255,481, and $151,431 was raised at the event! 
• Over 350 total supporters participated in the auction, in person and online.
• Over 100 packages were included in this year’s Silent Auction, and over 1,200 bids were placed! The most popular items were VIP Parking at Chen (107 bids), Sushi & Sake with a Twist (44 bids), and Lower School Principal for a Day (42 bids)! In total, the Silent Auction raised $37,760.
• The Live Auction offered a variety of exciting experiences and raised $69,250.
• A “Raise Your Paddle” was the final appeal of the night, and donors gave $40,741 to support the ISI Annual Fund!

SPECIAL THANKS TO

• The International Gala Co-Chairs, Rachel and Frank Stevens
• Auctioneer Chris Waters
• Head of School Elizabeth Head
• Board President Alonzo Weems
• International Gala Planning Committee Volunteers: Stephanie Aikins, Kelley Bellin, Lori Bradbury, Christina Collins-Berry, Kelly Daneri, Sharon Lunde, Jennifer Lussier, Shelby Nefouse, Lindsey Patel, Carrie Pitman, Elizabeth Prince, Toby Ringle, Leah Shattuck, Rachel Stevens, Britany Underwood, Lisa White, Amy Willis, and Heather Woods
• Employee Volunteers: Linda Weiss, Tim Stroh, Richard Bruford, Aaron Mickens, Laura Retes, Chris Gautier, Jenny Howell, Geoff Peate, Nella Means, and Jen Rose
• Student Volunteers: Teresa Avila-Guevara, Matteo Coppano, Amalia Cristea, Kadin Doles, Isabela Gonzalez Knarr, Craig Johnson, Michael Kreutz, Qing Kwok, Dennis Lemoine, MaKayla Montgomery, Léo-Paul Perrin, Ngoc (Emma) Phan, Isaac Pleasure-Kranowitz, Andres Rodriguez, Veronica Sabau, Lilliana Sanchez, Austeja Uselyte, Gabrielle Vergnaud, Nirav Vyas, Luna Waters
• Businesses and individuals who donated auction items
• Finally, our Gala attendees and supporters who put the fun into fundraising!

THANK YOU SPONSORS

Gala would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their commitment, partnership, and belief in our mission help bring this experience to life and make a lasting impact on everyone involved. We extend our sincere gratitude for their continued support.