A rich legacy of faith, academic excellence and community service was recognized during the St. Martha Catholic School 75th Anniversary: Diamond Gala in Sarasota Oct. 25, 2025.
Founded in 1950, St. Martha Catholic School has been shaping generations in knowledge, faith, and love that is centered on Christ. The Gala was a celebration of that legacy and a springboard for a bright future.
Bishop Frank J. Dewane spoke about how much of an impact St. Martha Catholic School has had on the community of Sarasota and the Diocese of Venice, noting how reaching 75 years was no small accomplishment.
“We find ourselves looking back to acknowledge the sacrifice many of you have made throughout the years,” Bishop Dewane said. “The generosity of so many people of good will have given us the strength to keep going as we look to how we continue forward. I want to join in thanking all of you for the good that you do and your presence here. I thank the parents for having chosen St. Martha’s as a school for your child.”
Mari Jo Hanson, Principal of St. Martha Catholic School, spoke about how St. Martha has grown from humble beginnings.
“From the sisters who opened the doors in the 1950s to dedicated teachers who continue to inspire our students today, this school has always been a place where faith and learning come together,” Hanson said. “In today’s world we recognize what a blessing it truly is to teach our children about faith. To express God’s love openly. To pray together. To help children see the world through compassion and hope. That freedom, that mission are gifts we never take for granted here at St. Martha.”
St. Martha Catholic School was established May 4, 1950, when ground was broken on what was then the first Catholic school in Sarasota County. The school was first administered by Benedictine Sisters of the Holy Name Priory. Their service ended in 1974 and was followed by service by Sisters of the third Order of St. Francis. The Pallotine Fathers have led St. Martha Parish since 1991 and have served the school since that time.
Of special note was the recognition of Father Fausto Stampiglia, SAC, who retired as Pastor of St. Martha Parish in 2022 after having served more than 30 years. Father Stampiglia was personally recognized by Bishop Dewane and Hanson and received multiple ovations for his contribution to the history of St. Martha Catholic School.
It was Father Stampiglia’s vision that enabled the school to relocate from its original downtown Sarasota home to its current location in 2002. A sprawling modern campus was developed and is now home to nearly 500 students. A later addition of the Zazarino Center, a multipurpose building with gymnasium and classrooms developed thanks to the guidance of Father Stampiglia, further enhancing the offerings at the school.
The elegant evening featured live and silent auctions with exclusive items and experiences, paddle raises, and an exciting raffle with fantastic prizes. Live entertainment was provided by The Hype.
All proceeds from the Diamond Gala, which was presented by The John F. Cuneo, Jr. Foundation, along with other generous sponsors, will support the enhancement of St. Martha Catholic School’s facilities, furnishings and resources, ensuring that the legacy of St. Martha continues to thrive for future generations, for disciples of Christ.
St. Martha Catholic School serves children in grades prekindergarten-3 through 8th Grade. The mission of St. Martha Catholic School is to provide each student with diverse opportunities which develop strength in faith, excellence in knowledge, and character in service. The school strives to provide a curriculum that gives the opportunity for growth in the student’s relationship with Jesus, while building competence in academic disciplines, basic skills, aesthetic appreciation and physical development.
More information about St. Martha Catholic School, including how to schedule a private tour, is available by calling 941-953-4181 or by visiting www.stmarthaschool.net.
