For over 60 years, the SCU Board of Fellows has been raising funds for the University through the Annual Golden Circle Theatre Party. The success of Santa Clara’s largest (and only black tie) fundraiser has always been centered on "making some friends while raising some money".
These devoted individuals make it their mission to raise funds to support the University's ongoing tradition of excellence in education and student development. With this tradition in mind, they hosted the first-ever Golden Circle Theatre Party in 1967. The Hollywood-style gala, complete with big name entertainers, was focused on increasing the University’s endowment. Today, the tradition continues, making the Golden Circle Theatre Party one of the most spectacular and successful fundraisers in the Santa Clara Valley.
Over the years, the Santa Clara University Board of Fellows has grown from 35 to 175 members and has raised over $77 million for the University. The Board is a diverse group of men and women united in their common goal to increase the community’s awareness and understanding of Santa Clara University while continuing to raise funds for scholarships and campus projects. Board members are proud of their role as "friend-raisers" in their support of the University.
A Message from the Chair
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the 61st year of the Board of Fellows! We are grateful for the opportunities to make a real impact in supporting several new landmark initiatives. On tap are the preparations for the relocation of the Jesuit School of Theology to the Santa Clara University campus, the establishment of the Cunningham Shoquist Center for Applied AI and Human Potential, and the launch of the new, soon to be announced, School of Medicine. This is truly a historic year for Santa Clara University, and the Board of Fellows will play a major part in assuring the availability of financial resources for the University’s continued success.
I am honored to be part of such a special group of individuals. Your commitment to the University is reflected in the over $2.6 million we raised this past year. These gifts fund scholarships and take on greater importance in support of the new University initiatives. We also have the task this year to retire the remaining $650,000 to complete the $5 million commitment made by the Board of Fellows to the Sobrato Campus for Discovery and Innovation. I know that I can count on you all to rise to the occasion and play an important part in making history this year.
I am looking forward to celebrating the 61st Annual Golden Circle Theatre Party with you all on February 13, 2027. We can all take pride in the fact that we can have a blast while making a difference hosting the last remaining VIP Black Tie Gala in Silicon Valley!!
Best Regards,
John P. Traub