Introducing our 150th Celebration Gala Chairs—Diane and Mark Wladis

Now in their second year as an MPH family, Diane and Mark Wladis have taken on a major leadership role for the School as chairs of our 150th Celebration Gala. While the big event is still several months away (mark your calendar for April 5!), they’ve been hard at work since the fall securing sponsorship support, forming event committees, and soliciting donations for our silent auction.

With just one year under their belt, one might ask why they offered to take on such a big task. Director of Events and Communications Jenn Neuner asked that very question of Diane and Mark:

“We are so thrilled with MPH and everything it has done for our son Andrew ’25, we wanted to give back.  Not just a financial contribution but give our time and energy in a way we felt we would be able to encourage others to do the same. We’ve always loved gala events and the way they provide a fun evening, bolster a sense of community, while at the same time raise money for an organization we believe in. We have come to appreciate what a special place MPH is and really wanted to make a significant contribution to further its worthy mission.”

The Wladis’ have hefty goals for this event, both in terms of community and fundraising. Their hope is that people from both the internal MPH community as well as the greater Central New York community will come together to celebrate this very special occasion for the school. “

We are hopeful that people will be reminded of the value of this unique educational community we have and be inspired, uplifted, entertained, and well fed!” says Diane.

Ultimately, the effort that the Wladis family is giving to MPH and the Gala is all about family. They are a unique and challenging situation of having a bi-coastal lifestyle while they accommodate their youngest son’s acting pursuits. So, while Mark is in Syracuse having one-on-one meeting about the Gala, Diane is in California, getting updates and providing feedback via email and phone. But it’s worth it. According to Diane and Mark, “MPH has provided a web of support that has allowed our son Andrew to thrive both academically and socially while our family unit is separated for weeks at a time. He has gained confidence and developed new skills because MPH values the independent thinker while encouraging collaboration. There is no way we would be able to manage if Andrew didn’t have the compassionate, vibrant, and engaging educational community of MPH to nurture his mind and spirit.”

We are so appreciative of the time, energy, and commitment that Diane and Mark are giving to our school and are excited to see what’s in store at the 150th Celebration Gala on April 5th at the Sky Armory in Syracuse. Tickets will be on sale in late February. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, auction item donor, or committee volunteer, please email jneuner@mphschool.org.