Hays Catholic Schools celebrated another historic milestone following the tremendous success of the 52nd annual ACE (Auction for Christian Education) fundraiser, held Saturday, April 25, at Thomas More Prep-Marian High School.
This year’s event, themed “God Shed His GrACE on Thee,” commemorated the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence while celebrating the enduring mission, faith, and traditions of Hays Catholic Schools. The patriotic theme served as a fitting backdrop for an evening marked by extraordinary generosity and community spirit.
The 2026 ACE Auction featured nearly 500 online auction items and approximately 100 live auction items, drawing widespread participation and support from alumni, parents, parishioners, businesses, and friends of Hays Catholic Schools from across the region and beyond.
The highlight of the evening was Item #160, the Al Billinger Fieldhouse renovation project. The initiative raised an astounding $606,161, including a $300,000 matching gift provided through the generosity of the Leo J. and Albina Dreiling Charitable Trust. Funds raised through Item #160, along with ongoing contributions, will support significant improvements to the historic Fieldhouse, helping preserve and enhance one of the school’s most beloved and iconic campus facilities for future generations of Monarchs.
Overall, the 52nd annual ACE Auction generated a record-breaking $953,763 in net proceeds — the highest total in the history of the event. While the official fundraising goal was set at $1 million, contributions will continue to be accepted through June 1 as final auction numbers are completed. School leadership remains optimistic that the remarkable generosity of the community may still help the campaign surpass the historic $1 million milestone.
“Once again, our community demonstrated an incredible commitment to Catholic education and to the mission of Hays Catholic Schools,” said Travis Grizzell, Advancement Director for Hays Catholic Schools. “The generosity shown through this year’s ACE is both humbling and inspiring. Whether through donations, sponsorships, volunteer service, auction purchases, or prayerful support, countless individuals contributed to the success of this event. We are sincerely grateful and feel tremendously blessed.”
For more than five decades, the ACE Auction, hosted by the TMP-Marian Alumni Association, has served as one of the premier fundraising traditions of Hays Catholic Schools, providing vital support for academic programs, student activities, facility improvements, and the ongoing mission of Catholic education in western Kansas.
Those interested in making a final contribution toward the 2026 ACE Auction campaign before numbers are finalized on June 1 may do so at https://givebutter.com/ace2026item160 or contact the Advancement Office at 785.625.9434.