On Wednesday, August 7th Center for Hospice Care (CHC) honored Reverend Edward "Monk" Malloy with the 39th Helping Hands Award. The 16th president of the University of Notre Dame, Rev. Malloy's tenure was marked by an unconditional dedication to service, education and social justice. But his impact was not limited to our community – Monk has left a lasting impression on the world.
Ever humble, Rev. Malloy spent most of the cocktail reception taking photos with many of the attendees in front of a step-and-repeat. His acceptance speech continued this theme as he several times downplayed his accomplishments, instead giving credit to others who helped him on his journey from Turkey Thicket Playground in Washington, D.C. to now as President Emeritus of the University of Notre Dame. He also gave credit to CHC for their involvement in two of the corporal works of mercy, an important tenet of the Brothers of the Holy Cross – caring for the sick and burying the dead. Rev. Malloy also brought to light how well the university has rallied around crises, including when one of their own would pass away.
The evening was hosted by dinner chairs Carmen and Lou Nanni, longtime friends and colleagues of Rev. Malloy's. They welcomed attendees to the Gillespie Center at Hilton Garden Inn and told several stories about their relationship with Monk as well as CHC. Their connection to CHC also goes back many years, and include Lou receiving the Helping Hands Award in 2000.
Entertainment for the cocktail reception was provided by the Fischoff grand prize winning Cerus Quartet. In addition, Michiana Rising Star winner Janet Hines-Norris amazed the crowd with an impromptu rendition of "The Wind Beneath My Wings" during the dinner. Following Rev. Malloy's acceptance speech, CHC President/CEO John Mastrojohn, III asked all in attendance to help ensure those in need of hospice care will always be able to receive to introduce a Paddle Up. Ably led by auctioneer Reggie Rivers, the paddle up portion of the evening raised $100,000. In total, the 39th Helping Hands Award Dinner became the most successful single fundraising event ever for CHC, bringing in over $550,000. Thank you to everybody that sponsored, raised a paddle or attended the event. It was a beautiful evening honoring a truly amazing man, Rev. Edward "Monk" Malloy!