March 11, 2020 Dear Catherine Cook Community,
After much deliberation and closely monitoring the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), and other state and national health organizations, the Catherine Cook administration has determined the safest choice for our community is to cancel the Annual Gala that was scheduled for this Saturday, March 14. This was a very difficult decision, but there is nothing more important to us than the health and safety of our school community.
Earlier today, the World Health Organization (WHO) escalated the COVID-19 health situation from an epidemic to pandemic status. Additionally, the CDC recommends social distancing and event cancellations as two of the most effective ways of slowing the spread of this virus. As we consider the health needs and concerns of all our community members, especially those most vulnerable, the most responsible choice is to cancel this event.
That said, Saturday will still feature online bidding for our Silent Auction, the Tuition Raffle drawing, and an opportunity to show your support for the Grant for Diversity and Inclusion. More details and instructions for participation will follow. A chance to bid on the Live Auction items will be determined at a later date.
As you know, the Annual Gala is a fundraiser for our annual operating budget. If you purchased a ticket or sponsorship to the Gala, we hope you will maintain that as a donation to Catherine Cook School. If you would like a refund for your ticket or sponsorship, please contact Lindsay Bartlett, Associate Director of Annual Giving and Special Events.
All of us at Catherine Cook would also like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our Gala Committee, especially Co-Chairs Mia Sossei, Heidi Suprenant, and Kelly Waters, and the incredible support of all our donors and sponsors. While the Annual Gala may be taking on a different form this year, your contributions are equally meaningful and do not go unnoticed.
Thank you in advance for your understanding and continued support of Catherine Cook School. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Gratefully,
Stacy Shafer Peterson
Catherine Cook School 226 West Schiller Street • Chicago, IL 60610 • (312) 266-3381 Archive • Unsubscribe • Forward to a Friend Please direct photos and questions to communications@ccookschool.org. |