By Joe Siegler ‘26
Saturday, March 28, was the 7th annual Brother Rice Be Exceptional Gala held at the Loews Chicago Hotel. I was able to work this event, and it was honestly unbelievable to see all the alumni and others come together for one cause, and that is us.
Several people were honored including the couple of the year, Kevin and Catherine Klinger, who have sent two children to Brother Rice. It was awesome to see all of the students dressed in tuxedos and working for a great cause.
Colin Goggin gave an inspiring speech, and he explained what the BRotherhood meant to him. I was able to embrace my friend after this speech because I honestly did not think Colin could ever make a touching speech like that.
My family sat at the same table, and they were able to see me represent Brother Rice by working this event. My parents were a part of the committee, and this was our last gala together, so it was very special to me.
So many great videos and presentations were shown to everyone in the ballroom, and they honestly touched the hearts of everyone in the room.
First, Dylan Krestan explained how he felt he was a part of the Brotherhood. He was diagnosed with cancer and the other members of the freshman baseball team shaved their heads so he would not be alone. I had never met Dylan, and that story helped me understand what he was going through and how the members of Brother Rice helped him so much.
Next, a video of Joey Bartoszek and Decatur Washington was presented. Joey’s dad passed away during football season, and Decatur ran out of bounds at the one yard line so Joey, an offensive lineman, could score his first ever touchdown.
These videos and seeing us work at this event showed everyone there that their money is being used wisely when they donate to this amazing school.
