Event Date: May 15, 2026
Event: Gala
Beneficiary: The Caroline School at Easter Seals Greater Houston
No. in attendance: 280
Monies raised: $540,000
Chairpersons: Elizabeth DeLuca and Virginia “Ginny” Simmons
Honorees: Elizabeth DeLuca and her daughter Caroline, posthumously
Keynote Speakers: Sebastian Driver and Anderson Dyke
Emcee: Ryan Korsgard
Photography: Jenny Antill
Three Anniversaries and a Beautiful Teenager’s Legacy Live On at The Caroline School Gala for Easter Seals Greater Houston
Three anniversaries converged as Easter Seals Greater Houston and The Caroline School hosted their annual gala. A quarter century has passed since Elizabeth and Anthony DeLuca founded the school after years of searching for a place that could support their daughter Caroline’s complex medical needs, caused by a rare genetic disorder. The Caroline School joined Easter Seals Greater Houston in 2011 (15 years). Sadly, in 2016 (10 years), at age 18, Caroline DeLuca passed away, leaving a legacy through her family, friends, The School, and the countless lives she touched through her remarkable spirit.
Lending her expertise as not only the founder but also as a chairperson alongside longtime friend Virginia “Ginny” Simmons and as an honoree with her daughter Caroline, was Elizabeth DeLuca. The combined efforts of the 280 supporters, the chairs and the sponsors gave The Caroline School a 25th-anniversary gift of $540,000 to support students with multiple disabilities, offsetting tuition costs for students now and in the future.
The stage was set as guests arrived to the classical sounds of The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University and heartwarming original artwork by students of The Caroline School. Former Channel 2 reporter Ryan Korsgard served as the evening’s emcee. Videos of School students played during the evening meal, and past School students Sebastian Driver and Anderson Dyke were praised as they shared their stories of acceptance, love, patience, and the ability to thrive, recounting the many ways the School shaped who they have become.
Caroline’s enduring legacy and the memorable passages of time were evident throughout the ballroom, and the joy was shared by all who attended the evening.
In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned): Jo Ann Petersen, Heidi Rockecharlie, Hallie Vanderhider, Robin and Danny Klaes, Elsie Eckert, Susan and Dick Hansen, Farida Abjani, Barbara Van Postman, Leisa Holland-Nelson Bowman, Leila Perrin, Jacquie Baly, James Craig, Cheryl Byington, Donae Chramosta and Helen Shaffer
