May 9, 2024
The Crystal Tea Room
Cocktails
6:00 PM
Kick off the evening with cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, entertainment, and a photo moment in the atrium.
Dinner
7:30 PM
A seated, 3-course meal in the heart of the Crystal Tea Room featuring student performances, speakers, and an Awards Presentation.
Dessert reception
9:00 PM
Enjoy cocktails, a dessert display, and a live DJ to conclude the evening.
Hosted By:
Phil Martelli
Naismith & AP Basketball Coach of the Year and Philadelphia Native
Phil Martelli, renowned in college basketball, served as the head coach of Saint Joseph's University Hawks from 1995 to 2019. During his tenure, he led the team to seven NCAA Tournaments and six NIT appearances, with a standout season in 2003-04 that saw the Hawks reach the NCAA Elite Eight with a 30-2 record. Martelli, named Naismith College Coach of the Year, became the winningest coach in Saint Joseph's history. In 2019, he joined the University of Michigan as the associate head coach. Beyond coaching, Martelli's basketball legacy includes his family's involvement in the sport and his own successful playing career as a point guard at Widener University.
Thank You To Our Sponsors
Presenting Partner
Teacher Appreciation Partner
Student Experience Partner
Dessert & Cocktail Reception Partner
Friend Partners
FAQs
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The Crystal Tea Room is located on the 9th Floor of The Wanamaker Building at 100 E Penn Square #9B, Philadelphia, PA 19107. If traveling by Uber or Lyft, use this address.
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Complimentary parking is available in the garage under The Wanamaker Building for all guests from 5:00pm until 11:00pm. Clearance height is 5'10". The entrance to the garage is off of Juniper Street, between Penn Square and Chestnut Street. Bare right onto Juniper Street from Penn Square and the garage will be on your left.
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Upon arrival at the South Lobby entrance of The Wanamaker Building, you should proceed up the escalators to the second floor, where you will be greeted by one of our Guest Relations team members. You’ll be able to check in simply by providing your name. Once checked in you’ll be issued a table number card and directed to the Cocktail Reception on the ninth floor. Check-in will begin at 6:00 p.m.
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Yes, there is a coat check onsite. Following check in, you will be able to store your belongings at no additional cost.
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While there is no dress code for this event, guests often wear business professional or cocktail attire.
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Last minute guest list changes? No problem! Email any guest list updates, name changes, edits, etc. to hello@katalystproductions.co with “BLOCS Gala” and company or organization name in the subject line. This email address is monitored constantly by our registration manager who will update our system to ensure everyone has a seamless check-in experience!
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We do our best to accommodate food allergies and basic preferences (vegan, vegetarian and dairy free). Please let us know of any restrictions by emailing hello@katalystproductions.co or inform your service team at seating of any allergies.
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Yes! Throughout the event, you will be able to make a donation by scanning a QR code at your table, donate by text, or donate by credit card (someone from our Guest Relations team will be happy to charge your card onsite!).
BLOCS 2024 Teacher of the year Award
Sponsored by FlynnO’Hara Uniforms
Do you know a teacher who is dedicated, inspiring, and really makes a difference? If so, please take a moment to nominate them by May 1, 2024. The winning educator will receive a $5,000 award and will be celebrated at the 2024 BLOCS Gala on May 9th at the Crystal Tea Room. Archdiocese of Philadelphia school students and their parents are encouraged to participate. Once selected by the BLOCS selection committee, the teacher will be chosen based upon:
Demonstrates ability to light up the future of students;
Goes above and beyond to help students achieve their goals;
Gives and receives respect and understanding from students, parents and colleagues;
Demonstrates excellence in Catholic education by going above and beyond to improve student learning and the learning environment.
Thank you in advance for nominating a BLOCS Teacher of the Year!
For sponsorship inquiries:
For all other inquiries, complete the form:
BLOCS GALA 2023
