Making a Difference Gala

You are invited to join the Notre Dame Academy community at the 2026 Making a Difference Gala!

In its seventh year, the Gala moves to the iconic Beverly Hilton, continuing its mission to support the next generation of Notre Dame Academy students through tuition assistance.

The Making a Difference Gala is NDA's largest annual event to support tuition assistance, with more than $1.5 million raised since its inception in 2020.

Your support makes a difference in the lives of NDA students. 100% of the proceeds from tickets, sponsorships, and donations provide direct and immediate tuition assistance to the nearly 45% of students receiving aid.

We look forward to celebrating with you under the palm trees!

In recognition of their extraordinary service to Notre Dame Academy and their faithful commitment to living the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame, we are also honored to recognize Bruno and Ellen Tonin and their daughters, Dr. Carolyn Hoffman ’87 and Dr. Michele Doll '90. Together, the Tonin family represents a powerful legacy of devotion, leadership, and generosity, one that has shaped generations of students and continues to strengthen the Notre Dame Academy community.

Notre Dame Academy is thrilled to honor Cristina Cuellar, Class of 2000, with the 2026 St. Julie Billiart Making a Difference Award. This award recognizes an alumna whose life and leadership reflect Notre Dame Academy’s mission and enduring call to make a difference in the world. Cristina’s commitment to service, faith, and impact beautifully embodies the spirit of St. Julie Billiart and the values instilled through an NDA education.

Congratulations to Cristina, Bruno, Ellen, Carolyn, and Michele!

Celebrate our 2026 Gala Honorees with a custom digital tribute displayed on screens throughout the Making a Difference Gala.

Your message of congratulations will be featured during the evening’s festivities as we gather to honor their leadership and impact on Notre Dame Academy.

This year, a full-screen digital tribute is $300, and a half-screen digital tribute is $150.

You can either custom-design your own tribute or share the messaging you would like included, and Notre Dame Academy will design the tribute on your behalf. 

To learn more and submit your tribute, please click the link below: 

If you have any questions regarding the Making a Difference Gala, please do not hesitate to contact Liz Roland, director of philanthropy, at advancement@ndala.com or by phone at (310) 839-5289 x212.