An Historic Night
74 Years in the Making
Join us on Friday, April 24, 2026, for the St. Gianna Banquet, an evening celebrating the mission of the St. Teresa of Calcutta Newman Center, and stepping into a long-awaited next chapter. This year, we’ll share plans and details for the Newman Center’s future church, and welcome Catholic singer-songwriter Danielle Rose for a private concert.
The Time Has Come to Build a Church
Founded in 1952 and housed in “temporary” buildings ever since, the Newman Center has always needed a true church home. As student life has grown, the chapel is overflowing, and students often end up standing outside in Nebraska heat, cold, wind, rain, and snow just to fellowship after Mass.
Drawings, budgets, and timelines are ready, and we’re excited to share them with you at the banquet. Come celebrate what God is doing, and help build what’s next.
The Songs & Sounds
of Danielle Rose
There is something uniquely powerful about the way St. Teresa of Calcutta (“Mother”) impacts hearts, and Danielle Rose’s music captures that beauty in a way that’s hard to put into words.
At 17, Danielle left home to travel to India and volunteer with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity. That experience changed her life, and the music born from it continues to change others. We’re honored to host her for a private concert during this year’s banquet.
Event Schedule:
Friday, April 24, 2026
Location: Younes Conference Center North,
707 Talmadge St, Kearney, Nebraska
5:00 PM – Mass with Bishop Joseph Hanefeldt
6:00 PM – Social Time (Open Bar)
7:00 PM – Dinner
8:00 PM – Private Concert with Danielle Rose
Social continues throughout the evening and after the concert
Purchase Tickets Today
All tickets must be purchased by Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Choose the option that fits you best:
$100 per person
$50 per student
Buy a Table & Save (Table of 10): $900
Clergy and religious attend at no cost (please contact staff for a coupon code).
Be part of this incredible evening, support the mission of the Newman Center and the future of Catholic life at UNK.
Become a Sponsor:
Sponsorships help cover event costs and help us achieve our fundraising goals.
If God sparks your heart to help in this way, please reach out:
Cell: (308) 371-6765 | Email: brent@lopercatholic.org
Can’t Attend? Support the Mission
If you’re unable to join us, you can still make a difference. Your gift supports the operating mission of the Newman Center—supporting FOCUS missionaries, providing the sacraments, welcoming converts, and enriching the faith of our Catholic community.