USF’s 65th Caritas Scholarship Ball on Jan. 29 is now going virtual

The University of St. Francis in Joliet had planned to hold its 65th Caritas Scholarship Ball on Jan. 29 in person – until rising COVID-19 cases in Will County suggested otherwise.

So Caritas will move to a virtual format “out of an abundance of caution,” according to a news release from the university.

A USF staff member will contact all previously registered participants with details about virtual access, according to the release.

USF President Arvid C. Johnson said in the release that last year’s virtual event was “largely successful because of the generosity and support that is consistently demonstrated by USF alumni, friends and employees, especially when it comes to supporting our students.”

“We are confident that this year’s event will see that level of support for our students, as well,” Johnson said in the release.

Arvid and Anne Johnson are hosting the event. Features will include a live message from Arvid, a student scholarship testimonial and silent and live auctions. The USF board of trustees also will be honored at the event, according to the release.

Virtual access to the event begins at 6:55 p.m. The cost is $100 per device/household. Register at stfrancis.edu/caritas.

Sponsorship packages, which range from $1,000 to $10,000, are still available. A $1,000 Friends Sponsorship comes with an opportunity to participate in a watch party in your home or via Zoom, according to the release.

For sponsorship opportunities, auction ideas or information, contact Penny Basso, USF assistant director of the Annual Fund-Caritas, at 815-740-3748 or pbasso@stfrancis.edu.

For information about the university of St. Francis, call 800-735-7500 or visit stfrancis.edu.