February 28, 2026
Dear Friends of Mary Help,
“Water to Wine”
That’s exactly what occurred at last Saturday’s Don Bosco Gala held on campus! The gym was transformed into a beautiful venue where 250 guests gathered, mingled, toasted our honorees and contributed to the Church beautification project. It was great to see participants from the various sectors of the Mary Help family. Everyone was represented!
We were honored to salute our five honorees:
- Tom and Kay Conroy – volunteers and founders of “Mary Has a Little Farm” which drew 5000 people to this unique ministry last year;
- Fr. John Nazzaro SDB – Principal of Mary Help of Christians School from 1989 to 1998;
- Mr. Lorenzo Olvera – a member of the Facilities team and groundskeeper;
- Fr. Steve Ryan SDB – Director (2012-2018) and inspiration for Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School.
This wonderful evening would not have been possible without a dedicated committee which included
- Mrs. Julie Fameree
- Mrs. Grace Horvath
- Mrs. Leila Hagtap
- Ms. Chioma Okoye
- Mrs. Gloria Santosuosso
- Ms. Mary Sverko
all under the direction of Mr. Stephen Watkins, Director of Mission Advancement.
In addition, there were many volunteers from the Camp Mary Help staff, the Center staff, and the Mama Margaret Guild who made every idea a reality!
We were most fortunate to have several generous sponsors for the evening:
- Anonymous
- Mr. and Mrs. Tony Argiz
- Mr. and Mrs. Joe Chiellini
- Mr. and Mrs. Jim Desmond
- Mrs. Anne Garcia
- Jeanne and Maz
- MHC Foundation
- Salesian Society, Province of St. Philip
In total, our sponsors contributed $125,000 to our project.
We are grateful for everyone’s participation and donation for the Center and its projects. As we remember our arrival in Tampa 100 years ago, we begin our countdown to the centennial of Mary Help of Christians School in just two years.
Water to Wine – thank you for your transformational generosity!
Mary Help of Christians, pray for us!
Fr. John J. Serio SDB
Director