Holy Family Institute Marks 125 Years with Spirit of Family Awards Gala
Holy Family Institute Marks 125 Years with Spirit of Family Awards Gala
Event will honor community champions, celebrate a century-plus of service, and unveil the next chapter in HFI’s mission
PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania [Mon., Aug. 18, 2025] – Holy Family Institute (HFI) is proud to commemorate 125 years of compassionate service to children and families with a landmark gala event on Saturday, September 13th at 6:00 p.m. at the Duquesne University Union Ballroom. The celebration will include the “Spirit of Family Awards: Celebrating 125 Years of Service to Families and Children,” and will feature special hosts Art and Greta Rooney and honorary co-hosts Vince and Donna Delie. The event is sponsored by Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth and F.N.B. Corporation.
The celebration will begin with a Liturgy of Thanksgiving at 5:30 p.m. in the Duquesne University Chapel, offering an opportunity to give thanks for HFI’s legacy of compassion and service. Following the liturgy, guests will gather for the gala, which will feature the presentation of the Spirit of Family Awards to the following individuals whose commitment and generosity have shaped and advanced HFI’s mission:
- Rosemary L. Corsetti and Vincent DeChellis
- Fran and Paula Daily
- Jim and Gretchen Haggerty
The gala will also cast a spotlight on key leadership developments. As of July 1, 2025, Michael Sexauer, who served as President since 2022, stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter in HFI history with its first-ever lay leader. Sexauer will be following in the footsteps of Sister Linda Yankoski, who has transitioned to President Emerita and Director of Mission Integration after four decades as CEO.
“HFI remains unwavering in its mission to transform lives through compassionate service and advocacy. This anniversary is a testament to the thousands of families and children touched through the dedication of our staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners,” said Sexauer. “This gala both honors our legacy and propels us forward into the next 125 years.”
Founded in 1900 by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, HFI’s beginnings go back to a converted Emsworth home where the Sisters welcomed children orphaned by a fire. Over the past century, the organization has evolved from a refuge serving Polish orphans into a multifaceted network of programs serving thousands annually, including education, mental health, housing, and family support services.
Notable milestones include the creation of Nazareth Prep in 2014, the launch and expansion of the Journey of Hope program to support immigrant children, and the 2025 assumption of operations at Mount Nazareth Learning Center. The anniversary gala will commemorate over a century of impact, and the organization will honor those who have made a lasting difference in its mission and unveil an exciting new chapter for its future.
