On Thursday, June 12, 2025, join us for a night of inspiration and celebration at the Starfish Awards, powered by the Women Leaders of SEF. This highly anticipated event will shine a light on those who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of students with disabilities. It’s an evening inspired by the timeless Starfish Story—making a difference to one makes all the difference in the world.
The Excitement is Building: Who Will Be Honored?
Our Women Leaders group is currently hard at work, thoughtfully reviewing nominations and selecting this year’s Starfish Award winners. These honorees represent the heart and soul of what we stand for—individuals and teams who have gone the extra mile to ensure students with disabilities have opportunities to thrive. The anticipation of announcing these incredible awardees is growing, and we can’t wait to reveal their stories at the event. Be there to witness the moment we celebrate their remarkable contributions!
Sponsorship Opportunities: Join the Wave of Change
Your support as a sponsor not only allows you to take part in an unforgettable evening but also fuels the essential programs SEF provides, including the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy, Arts in the Classroom, Autism Independence, and Adaptive Equipment. Explore the sponsorship levels to find the perfect fit for your involvement:
- Event Sponsor ($7,500): Receive the prestigious “Presented By...” designation, prime visibility in event materials, and twelve tickets to enjoy the evening with your own sponsor-designated round and cocktail tables.
- Award Sponsor ($4,000): Have your name on a Starfish Award and in event materials, with recognition across SEF’s platforms. Includes eight tickets and exclusive seating.
- Valedictorian Sponsor ($2,500): Recognition on a shared sign at the event, in the program, and on social media, plus a cocktail table and four tickets for the event.
- Honor Roll Sponsor ($1,000): A more accessible way to make an impact, with recognition and two tickets included.
By becoming a sponsor, you directly contribute to programs like Kids-to-Camp, Critical Needs Assistance, and Classroom Innovation Grants. Together, we’ll continue to create opportunities that transform lives.
Starfish Award Winner Mary Reich Hernandez and Family
Starfish Award Winner Mallory Hurt and Members of the Women Leaders of SEF
New Ticket Options for 2025: A Night for Everyone
To ensure all members of the Special School District community can join the celebration, we’ve expanded our ticket options:
- Patron Ticket ($500): Includes two tickets and recognition in the program.
- General Ticket ($125): Individual tickets for an unforgettable evening.
- NEW Educator General Ticket ($50): Exclusively for those working in the Special School District, this ticket offers the same incredible event experience at a reduced price, making it accessible to the educators who inspire and uplift our students every day.
The Educator General Ticket is a special addition this year, and we hope it encourages more of our dedicated educators and staff to join the celebration. After all, the work they do is at the heart of the impact we’re honoring.
Starfish Award Winner Katie Dowd and Family
SEF Supporters and Friends
Mark Your Calendar and Reserve Your Spot Today!
Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the exceptional people who make a difference in the lives of students with disabilities. Visit StarfishAwards.org to purchase tickets or secure a sponsorship. Together, we’ll share in an evening of joy, recognition, and hope for the future.
Make a difference, one starfish at a time. We’ll see you on June 12, 2025!
For more information about the Starfish Awards, please contact SEF Events Manager Jill Salinas jill@sef-stl.org | (865) 405-4420
