Gala raises $145,000 for The Alexander Dawson School

By Becky Bosshart

Thursday, March 12, 2009 | 7:28 p.m.

The annual fundraising gala for The Alexander Dawson School brought in more than $145,000, exceeding last year's total by more than $55,000.

The success of the Reach for the Stars Gala on March 7 at Moon nightclub at the Palms comes when donations to many private institutions have slowed.

"I am astounded by the generosity of our families in such tough economic times and I am flattered by their confidence in us as a school," said Headmaster Michael Imperi.

Money raised goes toward scholarships, technology purchases, and a professional development fund for teachers and staff at the private school located at 10845 W. Desert Inn Road. The event attracted about 250 guests.

Last year, it raised about $90,000.

The evening was dedicated to the Boyd family, which has had seven children attend the school since 2001.

"The Boyd family had confidence in a brand new school, when we were just a pile of bricks, and they have supported us in so many ways," Imperi said.

"It was a great honor for me to recognize them at the gala and pay tribute to their commitment to Dawson."

Several luxury items -- including a two-week trip to Spain and a top chef culinary dinner party -- were auctioned at the event.

The Summerlin school has a staff of 125 and more than 630 students ranging from pre-school to eighth grade.

Becky Bosshart can be reached at 990-7748 or becky.bosshart@hbcpub.com.