Bishop Heelan School raises $1.1 million at auction

Sioux City Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools announced the April 10 Annual Auction raised over $1,100,416 in support of the entire Heelan system. There were over 650 attendees at the cowboy themed event.

This year’s Fund-A-Cause, the Walk of Faith Project, inspired generosity and raised $46,185 toward creating a safe and symbolic walkway connecting Heelan High School to the Grandview sidewalk. The project aims to incorporate visible signs of our Catholic faith into the entrance of our campus, reminding all who enter that we are followers of Christ. 

A highlight of the evening was a heartfelt blessing offered by Bishop R. Walker Nickless, who also helped with a truly unique auction item: a bronzed sculpture of his praying hands. This 
one-of-a-kind piece sold for an astonishing $70,000 during the live auction. 

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude,” said the event organizers. “This was a historic night for Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, and it would not have been possible without the generous support of our Crusader family.” 

The annual auction is one of the school’s most impactful fundraising efforts, supporting students across all Bishop Heelan campuses. With this year’s success, the future of Catholic education in Sioux City shines even brighter. 

Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools is a PreK-12 Catholic school system committed to spiritual, intellectual, and personal growth. Guided by the mission to "relate the total student to God through excellent education and service," it emphasizes Faith, Family, Knowledge, and Service. Students participate in prayers, weekly Masses, and religious education, fostering a strong spiritual foundation. The school offers a rigorous curriculum, modern teaching strategies, and consistently high test scores. Service is integral, with opportunities for community projects and mission trips. Accredited by the Diocese of Sioux City and Iowa Department of Education.