Broncho Bash 2023 was held on Sept. 15, at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond. The event, presented by Love's Travel Stops, raised more than $90,000, with a gross total exceeding $114,000.
Emily Sanchez, coordinator of campus ministry for the University of Central Oklahoma, shared her excitement and gratitude about the event.
"Our mission is to bring Jesus to the college campus and change the culture for Christ," Sanchez said. "It is a privilege to have a front row seat to young people encountering God. To see young people discover their true identity, find confidence in who they are and fuel their mission is only going to continue to build leaders in our communities that desperately need faith, hope and love. This is only possible with amazing supporters. Thank you."
Mary Blakenship-Pointer, a community philanthropist, also expressed her delight in the event.
"I am thrilled that the third-annual Broncho Bash, dedicated to supporting Catholic student ministry, was an overwhelming success. The funds raised have created a nurturing environment where students can further cultivate their faith while away from home."
At the heart of the evening was a silent auction, including items such as a luxury African safari trip for two and a stunning diamond necklace, generously donated by Michener Ferrand Jewelers.
Broncho Catholic college students, members of the UCO campus ministry, played a pivotal role in the event, lining the entire banquet room and serving guests throughout the evening. Their presence allowed attendees to connect with the students with the goal of fostering a sense of continuity and purpose.
The evening commenced with a welcome video from Archbishop Coakley, followed by a message of thanks from Father Alexander Kroll, parochial vicar at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond and chaplain to the UCO campus ministry, along with an appeal to support the Broncho Catholic ministry. His call for support resulted in funding for a Saint John Paul II statue for the upstairs chapel of the campus ministry building, along with a new chalice and ciborium.
The evening concluded after dinner, the silent auction, music and dancing in the parish hall.
Learn more about the UCO campus ministry at bronchocatholic.com
Joy Murphy is the director of campus development for the University of Central Oklahoma.
Photo: (Above) Jonathan and Krista Souther, owners of Krista Anne's Boutique, Joy Murphy, director of campus development for UCO and Mary Blankenship-Pointer, community philanthropist, came together to celebrate the success of Broncho Bash 2023.
Broncho Catholic ministry supporter John Paul Krug, a junior finance major at the University of Central Oklahoma, and his girlfriend Kylie Masters, share a joyful moment on the dance floor during the festivities of Broncho Bash 2023. Photos provided.