The Blog

Auction Recap 2023

The 2023 Dinner and Benefit Auction has officially concluded, and what a night it was! From the beautiful table settings and floral arrangements to the hundreds of unique items that were donated by many individuals, families, and businesses near and dear to the Nebraska Christian family, this year’s Dinner and Benefit Auction proved to be one of the best!

Anticipation was high in the time leading up to the auction; in fact, it was so great that the Nebraska Christian Dinner and Benefit Auction team had to increase the number of tables available in order to accommodate the influx of patrons. Items for auction came in constantly and consistently up to only a couple of weeks before the benefit took place; it is easy to see that the level of support and generosity within the NC community is unmatched.

Year after year, hundreds of people are involved in making this event a success. The Dinner and Benefit Auction team wishes to say thank you to everyone who donated an item or money, everyone who attended, and all those who made a purchase. Many volunteers were involved in the event, including dozens of NC students. “The student involvement pieces stick out as highlights for me”, said NC Superintendent Mr. Tim Hekrdle, “The student servers were spot on with their service this year”. The evening “was a well-oiled machine”, he went on to say, “It was so cool to see them buzzing around the gym serving (…) they did an excellent job”.

The evening went off without a hitch, beginning with the silent auction preview in the beautifully decorated NC gymnasium under elegant candlelight. As final bids rolled in, guests were treated with gourmet salads and an opening speech from Mr. Hekrdle, followed by a prayer from NC School Board member Doug Langemeier. 

After the opening remarks, a delectable meal was served, which included a bacon-wrapped filet and shrimp entree with green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, and a gourmet dinner roll; catered by Whitefoot Market, Incorporated. Dessert consisted of cheesecake bites by Medina Street Vault; and a wonderful selection of cupcakes created by NCs very own eighth-grade student, Miss Bria Meckel. “I love that Bria Meckel provided the cupcakes using the talents and skills that God has gifted her”, stated Mr. Hekrdle, “I heard comments at my table such as ‘This is literally the best cupcake that I have ever had’, that was pretty neat”.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Hall of Faith Award. Nearly every year since 1983, this award has been given to individuals who have had a long supportive association with Nebraska Christian Schools. The purpose of the Hall of Faith Award is to honor these individuals who gave themselves to service at Nebraska Christian, be it through teaching, giving of time and finances, or their involvement in other ways on campus. These individuals have made a lasting impact on NC and its students. This year, this prestigious award deservingly went to Mr. Thomas Dockweiler. 

Following the ceremony, the always-anticipated live auction took place, which was not short of entertainment. With international big-game safari excursions and relaxing getaways, adorable puppies and an enlarged big head photo of Mr. Hekrdle, there was something for everyone. After the live auction, student speaker Sophie Swanson, a senior at NC, had the opportunity to speak prior to the beginning of the scholarship auction. Within her speech, she gave a glimpse into student life and how NC has impacted her life. Mr. Hekrdle remarked, “It was a great reminder not only why we do the auction but also why our school exists”.

Brandi Flynn, Development Specialist for NC, stated, “It was truly a blessing to see how many people truly love Nebraska Christian and how much support there is for every activity or benefit that this school holds”. Throughout the planning and execution of the entire process, the words of encouragement, prayers, and assistance did not go unnoticed as the auction ended. 

Thank you, again, to all who helped with the 2023 Dinner and Benefit Auction and to all those who prayed for the event. Nebraska Christian Schools and the NC Dinner and Benefit Auction Team are incredibly thankful to every person who played a part in turning this event into reality and to God for inspiring so much generosity from all involved. The NC Dinner and Benefit Auction team anxiously awaits the next event in 2024.

Be sure to click here and check out this beautiful Auction Recap video, created by junior NC student Mallory Paul.