Gladhander Auction and Raffle

Gladhander is our annual fundraiser, bringing together parents, alumni, educators, and local leaders in support of Catholic education in the Grand Traverse region. This year’s theme – “Marvelous Michigan: A Stately Affair” – celebrates the places, experiences, and traditions that make our state so special. From iconic landmarks and hidden gems to festivals, outdoor adventures, and uniquely Michigan products, the evening will highlight the very best our state has to offer.

 

Gladhander 2026
Saturday, October 24
Tickets: $225 per person
5pm-11:30pm at St. Francis High School Gymnasium

  • Tickets will be available to purchase starting September 1. A link to purchase will be available here or contact the Gladhander office at 231.941.4523.
  • Sponsorships are available. Learn more about sponsorships here: Gladhander Sponsorships
  • Donations: We are currently seeking donations of goods, services, or experience-based packages to feature in our silent and live auctions. Your support does more than enhance the event – it directly impacts our students by helping fund academic programs, scholarships, and faculty support. Examples of donations that align with this year’s theme include:
      • Michigan getaway packages or lodging experiences
      • Tickets to local festivals, events, or attractions
      • Outdoor recreation opportunities (boating, skiing, guided tours, etc.)
      • Gift baskets featuring Michigan-made products
      • Dining experiences or culinary offerings
      • Unique behind-the-scenes or VIP experiences
  • Silent Auction Bidding is open to everyone. Bidding begins October 16. Register and view items at https://onecau.se/gladhander
  • Raffle Tickets: 1 for $125, 2 for $200, 3 for $250
      • Drive away in a new JEEP® Gladiator, courtesy of Serra Traverse City
      • Win $38,000 in cash
      • Six additional cash prizes of $1,000
      • 2 Early Bird Drawings of $1,000 this year: August 31st and October 2nd
      • To get your raffle tickets call 231.941.4523 or click this link for a raffle ticket order form.
    • We’re also pleased to bring back the exclusive “40 Club” Challenge. With a $3,000 purchase, you’ll receive 40 raffle tickets – an incredible way to increase your chances while making an even greater impact.
  • Preview Night Gladhander tradition, join us on Friday, October 23 at the St. Francis High School to thank our supporters. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages while viewing the decorations and auction items.

 


SUPPORT OUR DONORS

Please support those who support our schools. Download a list of our 2025 donors here!


PAST GLADHANDER THEMES

  • 1983 Circus
  • 1984 Putting on the Ritz
  • 1985 Set Sail
  • 1986 The Orient
  • 1987 Southern Elegance
  • 1988 Mardi Gras
  • 1989 A Crystal Affair
  • 1990 Fiesta Ole
  • 1991 Under the Sea
  • 1992 Castles and Crowns
  • 1993 Hooray for Hollywood
  • 1994 Into the Arabesque
  • 1995 Victorian Splendor
  • 1996 On the Wild Side
  • 1997 When in Rome
  • 1998 C’est Magnifique
  • 1999 Jewel of the Nile
  • 2000 Steppin’ Out
  • 2001 Russian Rhapsody
  • 2002 Circus Circus
  • 2003 An Enchanted Evening
  • 2004 La Dolce Vita
  • 2005 Ramblin’ on Route 66
  • 2006 All the World’s a Stage
  • 2007 A Silver Celebration
  • 2008 Erin Go Bragh
  • 2009 Fun & Games
  • 2010 Music of Motown
  • 2011 Seuss on the Loose
  • 2012 80s Rewind
  • 2013 Extravaganza Earth
  • 2014 ‘Tis A Classic
  • 2015 New York, New York
  • 2016 Sea to Shining Sea
  • 2017 Remember the Wonder
  • 2018 Around The World
  • 2019 There’s No Place Like Home
  • 2020 Hoedown or Hootenanny
  • 2021 Off to the Races
  • 2022 Celebrate the Music
  • 2023 Journey Through Narnia
  • 2024 Captivating Color
  • 2025 Golden Ticket Gala

PAST GLADHANDER CHAIRS

Jim Beckett – Emeritus
Ken Kleinrichert, Sr.
Tom McIntyre
Paul Schmuckal
Tom Gartland
Pat Heintz
Pat Brady
Sheila McIntyre
Doug Shaw
Russ Spranger
Carolyn Vaughan
Al Zelinski
Nancy Brick
Mike & Maggie Kent
Pete & Kim Schmitz
Bill & Debbie Marsh
Dave & Amy Pax
Doug & Maureen DeYoung
John & Robin Ehardt
Dale & Janet Troppman
Mike & Katie Bobrowski
John & Angie Puetz

OUR CURRENT CHAIRS

Darryl & Cathy Nelson