Saint Elizabeth Gala

You're invited to the Saint Elizabeth University Gala on May 1 at 6 p.m at The Meadow Wood in Randolph, NJ. Join us as we officially launch the Sister Francis Raftery Institute for Women's Leadership, named in honor of Sister Francis Raftery, S.G, 14th President of the College of Saint Elizabeth. Inspired by her visionary leadership and lifelong commitment to forming women leaders, the Institute will create new opportunities for women to grow, lead, and make a difference.

The evening will also feature the Saint Elizabeth University Hall of Fame induction and the presentation of the Spirit of Saint Elizabeth Awards. Celebrate with us and help shape the future of women's leadership.

About the Sister Francis Raftery Institute for Women's Leadership

Mission

The Sister Francis Raftery Center for Women’s Leadership prepares and positions women for leadership roles through transformative personal and professional opportunities, and amplifies the voices of future generations of women leaders.

Vision

Rooted in Catholic Social Teaching and the values of integrity, social responsibility, leadership, the Raftery Institute aspires to be a premier catalyst for women’s leadership development. 

Guided by the principles of solidarity with the poor and service to the community, the Institute will empower women by intentionally designing high-quality programs that provide essential personal development, along with networking, professional, and leadership opportunities, thereby ensuring that women leaders from all backgrounds are prepared to advance the common good and promote systemic justice.

Your Support

Through an integrated academic and co-curricular model, the Institute forms leaders grounded in integrity, social responsibility, and servant leadership, equipping them to advance the common good and promote systemic justice. Your support will enable:

• Scholarships for aspiring women leaders
• The groundbreaking new B.A. in Women’s Leadership and certificate programs
• Paid internships and mentorship opportunities
• Leadership conferences, workshops, and speaker series
• Faculty training in character-based leadership education
• Partnerships expanding opportunities for underserved students

Your generosity empowers women to lead with integrity, purpose, and courage.

Winifred (Markell) Johanson ’67

A pioneering technology leader and dedicated community advocate, Wynn Johanson has spent her career advancing innovation, service, and women’s leadership.

Beth (Weller) Renyi ’69

A transformative leader and philanthropist, Beth Renyi has shaped Saint Elizabeth University and strengthened communities through faith-driven service and enduring generosity.

Dr. Valerie A. (Del Tufo) Rowe ’69

An accomplished educator and advocate for literacy, Dr. Valerie Rowe has dedicated her career to empowering students and expanding access to inclusive education.

Linda Marie Flores-Tober ’81

A tireless humanitarian and nonprofit leader, Linda Flores-Tober has transformed lives through her decades of service to families experiencing homelessness.

Frances Weis-Garcia, Ph.D. ’87

A distinguished scientist and national leader in biomedical research, Dr. Frances Weis-Garcia has advanced innovation through collaboration and scientific infrastructure.

Jacklyn (Gise) Bezos ’91*

A visionary philanthropist and champion of early learning, Jackie Bezos dedicated her life to expanding opportunity for children and families worldwide.