Peppers, puppies and pop stars was the order of the evening at Oaks Christian School’s annual dinner auction gala at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. The school’s premier night of philanthropy and fellowship returned a second time to the iconic venue with over 500 guests in attendance to enjoy a night featuring Motown legend Diana Ross and celebrity emcee Jay Leno.
Themed “One Shining Moment,” the inspiring evening raised funds for all OCS programs through the live auction, the online auction (setting a record at $126,00 raised), sponsorships and table sales.
“The purpose of tonight is to support students. Oaks Christian is a beacon on the hill and a beacon in the community,” said Head of School Rob Black.
Guests enjoyed a delightful welcome hour reception, followed by a gourmet dinner and student entertainment before Leno kicked off the evening with his punchy one-liners and comedic talent.
Back for another year was professional auctioneer Jim Nye, who pleaded, pressured and prodded guests to open up their hearts and wallets to support the school. The three biggest live auction items were a Los Angeles Rams VIP package for $50,000, a pair of adorable 10-week-old Australian doodle puppies for over $50,000, and several tours of Jay Leno’s Garage (with his classic car and motorcycle collection) which totaled over $50,000.
A last-minute surprise included an appearance by Colby Parkinson, OCS Class of 2019 and newly signed Los Angeles Rams tight end. He helped auction off the first-ever Rams No. 86 Parkinson jersey, much to the delight of the audience.
Also, part of the lively bidding wars were a premium ticket and a private jet to a Red Hot Chili Peppers live performance, a pair of Super Bowl tickets, and exclusive trips to Cabo San Lucas, Maui and the Mexican Riviera.
Before Ross took the stage, OCS students shared their thoughts and talents.
Senior Shelby Snyder, who will major in criminal justice this fall at Boston’s Northeastern University with hopes of joining the FBI, recounted how Oaks Christian has shaped her since her seventh-grade year.
“The person I will become in college is because of Oaks. For that I am eternally grateful,” she said, acknowledging the mentorship and guidance of faculty and the support of friends.
Senior Hannah Lowe, an aspiring vocalist and student in the school’s Institute of Arts and Innovation, thrilled the audience with her powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All.”
The much-anticipated finale–Ross’ performance–did not disappoint. With her signature wardrobe and stage presence, Ross wowed the audience with powerful performances of several of her hits, including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Stop, in the Name of Love,” “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” “I’m Coming Out,” “Baby Love” and “Theme from Mahogany (Do You Know Where You’re Going To?).”
Oaks Christian is a college-preparatory, day and boarding school serving over 1,600 students in Grades 4-12. With an aim to graduate students who will be difference-makers and influencers, Oaks Christian’s programs, opportunities and endeavors are focused on character and spiritual formation, intellectual and creative curiosity, and integrity. The formation of spiritual leadership, empathy and a global worldview is fostered through numerous mission and education trips, student leadership and many service-learning outreaches. Learn more at OaksChristian.org.
“The person I will become in college is because of Oaks," –Senior Shelby Snyder