Headshot of Chef Renee Erickson

Saint Martin's Gala

Join us for the 2026 Saint Martin's Gala on November 7, 2026, an unforgettable evening dedicated to supporting student scholarships. This year, we are excited to welcome celebrity chef Renee Erickson as our host, promising an evening filled with extraordinary food, community and generosity. Over the past two decades, this event has raised more than $22 million, opening doors to a Catholic Benedictine education for countless students. Your participation in the Gala will directly impact the lives of countless students, giving them the opportunity to thrive at Saint Martin’s University and beyond.

Read the full press release.

Secure your tickets for the Saint Martin's Gala:

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Chef Renee Erickson sprinkles something onto food in a woodland setting

Gala Chef Renee Erickson

Renee Erickson is a James Beard Award–winning chef, author and restaurateur based in Seattle. A Seattle native, she co-owns acclaimed restaurants including The Walrus and the Carpenter and Westward, known for Pacific Northwest ingredients with European influence. She is the author of cookbooks including A Boat, a Whale & a Walrus and Getaway: Food & Drink to Transport You. A graduate of the University of Washington, Erickson blends food, design and creativity to craft welcoming dining experiences.

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A student speaks form a lectern at Gala

The importance of scholarships

The Gala is Saint Martin's signature student scholarship fundraising event. An annual celebration of community, food and wine, the Gala combines two important Benedictine values: hospitality and stewardship. As we gather to break bread, we support our students, whose educational dreams are made possible through scholarships funded from the proceeds of this event. 

Gala history

Hotel accommodations

DoubleTree by Hilton logo

DoubleTree by Hilton Olympia

For your preferred hotel book online or call and mention Saint Martin’s Gala for special rates. | Corporate number: 0003404389 | Company: Saint Martin’s University | Phone number: 360-570-0555

Make a reservation

Holiday Inn Express logo

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lacey

For your preferred hotel book online or call and mention Saint Martin’s Gala for special rates. | Corporate number: 100238503 | Code: SMU Gala | Phone number: 1-888-465-4329

Make a reservation

Candlewood Suites logo

Candlewood Suites

For your preferred hotel book online or call and mention Saint Martin’s Gala for special rates. | Corporate number: 100238503 | Code: SMU Gala | Phone number: 360-491-1698

Make a reservation

Contact us

Rows of brightly set round tables

Office of Institutional Advancement

Please direct any questions to the Office of Institutional Advancement by emailing gala@stmartin.edu or calling 360-438-4366.

View office directory page

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