A Night to Remember
Under the warm evening sky at the Palo Alto Hills Golf & Country Club, over 200 elegantly dressed guests gathered to celebrate the 45th Anniversary of Silicon Valley International School (INTL) at the Annual Gala & Auction. This year’s sold-out event themed, “A Sapphire Affair,” was a celebration of multiculturalism, bilingualism, and four-and-a-half decades of educational excellence.
The evening was a resounding success, raising over $400,000—making it the second most successful Gala in the school’s history. This remarkable achievement was a testament to the incredible generosity and unwavering support of the INTL community.
As attendees arrived, they were greeted with a welcome glass of sparkling Champagne, setting the tone for an evening filled with fine dining, thrilling auctions, and lively entertainment. With guests adorned in dark blue and gold attire, the night shimmered with elegance and energy, perfectly capturing the sapphire theme.
A Celebration of Heritage and Community
As the lively cocktail hour came to a close, guests made their way to their seats to watch a live performance by INTL’s student band, The Dragons, setting the stage for an evening filled with excitement and entertainment. After their first two songs, the crowd was on their feet and cheered for an encore performance!
The night was not only a celebration of the present but also a tribute to the school’s rich history. A special highlight of the evening was an appearance and speech by Philippe Dietz, a remarkable contributor to INTL who served as Head of School for over 20 years. Under his visionary leadership, INTL grew into the thriving bilingual and multicultural institution it is today.
During the dinner program, Patricia Colin, Chief Advancement Officer, introduced a special film honoring INTL’s very first graduating class. The movie transported the audience back to 1979, when nine students embarked on a pioneering bilingual journey, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving international school.
The heartfelt tribute drew applause and reflection, as the audience recognized the school’s enduring legacy. The celebration embodied the spirit and commitment of the generations of students, parents, teachers, and supporters who have shaped INTL over the past 45 years.
Following the video tribute, Gala Co-Chairs Vivian Chen and Zack Hou took the stage to deliver a rousing speech, expressing their deep love and admiration for INTL. As proud parents of three children who have thrived under the school’s bilingual and multicultural curriculum, they spoke of the INTL’s impact on their family and the community.
High-Stakes Auction and Gourmet Delights
The live auction was a thrilling highlight of the evening, with guests enthusiastically raising their paddles to bid on an array of coveted items and experiences. The excitement in the room was palpable as attendees competed for unique lots.
The hottest ticket of the night was an exclusive dinner with the legendary Bay Area Master Chef Martin Yan, which sparked a fierce bidding war before finally selling for an impressive $18,000. Guests were eager for the chance to dine with a culinary icon, making this one of the most coveted auction lots of the evening.
Throughout the auction, guests were treated to a gourmet dinner featuring an array of delectable meal options. From grilled scallops to Mediterranean-style Alaskan halibut and pan-seared filet of beef, the culinary offerings delighted every palate. The meal concluded with a delicate miniature farnadole of mignardises cakes, adding a sweet touch to the dining experience.
Fund-a-Need: Supporting Social-Emotional Learning
One of the evening’s most impactful moments was the Fund-a-Need initiative, focusing this year on integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) into everyday classes. The goal is to create an environment where students feel supported, understood, and equipped to flourish.
The initiative also aims to strengthen the partnership between home and school, empowering parents and teachers to collaborate in fostering students’ emotional well-being and academic success. With over $300,000 raised during the Gala, there is still time to contribute to Fund-a-Need and make a lasting impact on INTL’s students and teachers.
An Evening of Unity and Celebration
As the auction concluded, the celebration continued with guests dancing late into the night, enjoying the festive atmosphere, glowing azure dance floor, and the camaraderie of the INTL community. From the stunning sapphire-themed décor to the exquisite cuisine and energetic entertainment, every detail contributed to an unforgettable evening.
The 2025 Annual Gala & Auction was more than just a fundraising event—it was a celebration of 45 years of bilingual excellence and a tribute to the incredible INTL community. Here’s to honoring the past, embracing the present, and looking forward to an even brighter future!
