Storm Lake donors step up for Big and Bold renovation

St. Mary’s Catholic School announced its Fund-A-Cause project for this year’s Ball and Charity Auction in early January. Since then, generous donors have stepped forward to support the much-needed renovation of the community gym entrance and first floor of the high school. 

Thanks to early leadership gifts from the St. Mary’s Foundation, the Joe Nemmers Family in honor of the late Kathy (Christenson) Nemmers ’73, a local Storm Lake business, two anonymous St. Mary’s families, and the SOS Thrift Store, the school has already raised more than one-third of the project’s total goal.

To date, $579,060 has been committed toward the $1.5 million project, with additional donors actively being pursued so construction can be completed this summer.

The St. Mary’s Foundation proudly provided a leadership gift of $250,000 in support of the renovation. The high school addition was originally built in 1956, with few updates made over the decades. Foundation leaders emphasized the importance of investing in modern, welcoming facilities while continuing to recruit and retain students.

“We need to show families that we are committed to modernized spaces alongside exceptional education,” said foundation board member Jeff Foell.

Long-time St. Mary’s supporter Joe Nemmers contributed $100,000 in memory of his late wife, Kathy (Christenson) Nemmers ’73. In recognition of this gift, the renovated concession stand will be named in her honor. Nemmers has also played a key role in campaign planning and strategy.

“Joe has taught us so much, encouraged us to fundraise for the full scope of the project, and generously shared his time, wisdom, and resources,” said Amanda Foell, Ball and Auction Chair. “We are deeply grateful for his leadership and support.”

Additional generosity includes a $100,000 gift from a local Storm Lake business and St. Mary’s family who wish to remain anonymous, as well as a $10,000 anonymous family donation.
Concept drawing by FEH design“These donors believe deeply in our school, our mission, and Catholic education,” said Kate Friedrichsen, K-12 counselor and ball and auction co-chair. “Their commitment is incredibly meaningful and helps move this project forward.”
The SOS Thrift Store—an all-volunteer consignment store that donates 100% of its profits to St. Mary’s School—has also committed $10,000 to the renovation.

“The SOS Store has been integral to the success and sustainability of our school,” said Adam Friedrichsen, ball and auction co-chair. “Their continued generosity reflects their long-standing dedication to St. Mary’s.”

Planned improvements include relocation of the coach’s office, concession stand, and men’s and women’s restrooms, along with updated paint, lockers, doors, flooring, ceilings, trophy cases, and a reconfigured west staircase. The renovations will also intentionally highlight and celebrate St. Mary’s Catholic identity. FEH Design has created architectural renderings to illustrate the transformed space.

The St. Mary’s Ball and Charity Auction—one of the school’s cornerstone fundraising events—will feature dinner, live and silent auctions, and live entertainment. Tickets are available online at StormLakeCatholic.com or at the parish office.

For more information, contact the Parish Office at (712) 732-3110 or visit stormlakecatholic.ejoinme.org/blackandwhite.
St. Mary’s Catholic School seeks to be a Christ-centered family devoted to the development of the spirit, mind, and body.

HOME