In Pursuit of Excellence Past Galas

View the 2020 Gala Videos:

SAFRA CATZ

Our 2020 Gala Keynote Speaker

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear Safra’s extraordinary journey to the pinnacle of success.

Safra Catz was born in Israel and moved, with her family, to the United States (Massachusetts) when she was six years old. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business in 1983 with a Joint Degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1986. She is also a Harvard Law School alumnus. 

Safra began her career in the banking industry in 1986 at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette. She served as Senior Vice President from 1994 to 1997 and as Managing Director from 1997 to 1999 when she decided to change direction and join both the Oracle Corporation and tech industry.

As Oracle’s Chief Executive Officer since 2014, Safra serves as a member of Oracle’s board of directors since 2001 and has previously served as Oracle’s president and Chief Financial Officer. She currently serves as a director of The Walt Disney Company and has served as a director of HSBC Holdings plc.

Safra’s achievements rank her at the top of the list of highest-paid US female executives. Forbes and Fortune, in 2009, ranked her as the 16th and 12th most powerful woman in business. An Equilar analysis published by Fortune declared her in 2011 as the highest-paid woman among Fortune 1000 companies.

On the personal side, Safra is happily married to Gal Tirosh, an Israeli, since 1997. She credits her success to her husband’s willingness and ability to be a stay-at-home dad for their two sons. She describes Gal as a writer who was secure in his role and helped her early career.

Believe it or not, our exceptional keynote speaker is actually camera shy, prefers anonymity, and avoids being in the spotlight whenever possible. Sharing her extraordinary journey with guests at our gala is a gift and a rare opportunity to gain insights into Safra’s personal and professional achievements informed by her Israeli roots, Jewish family and values, and academic accomplishments.

The 2019 IN PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE GALA

The 2019 15th Annual In Pursuit of Excellence Gala was an amazing success! A night of inspiration and gratitude was beautifully captured in photos.View all images from the 2019 In Pursuit of Excellence Gala.

Head of School, Rabbi Joyce Raynor, welcomes the sold out crowd to the 15th annual In Pursuit of Excellence Gala and awards the Teacher Appreciation Award to Sherry Lasky.

Art Marshall Speech

Our first Philanthropy Award nominee, Art Marshall, gave a moving speech with the help of his daughter Cari.

Miriam Peretz Speech

Honoree Miriam Peretz delivered an inspirational speech about overcoming loss and choosing to live a life of meaning. 

AEC Student vs. Elon Gold

Watch the hilarious comedy bit performed by professional comedian Elon Gold and Adelson student Rosie Polonsky.

AEC Gala Tribute Journal

Each year The Adelson School produces a professionally designed and printed magazine showcasing school related articles and honoree tributes. This years AdelsonTribute Journal magazine features articles on honorees Miriam Peretz, Art Marshall, and Sherry Lasky.