Notre Dame School Celebrates 100 Years of Catholic Education

Centennial Mass and Gala to Mark Milestone for Santa Barbara Institution

Feb. 6, 2026 at 5:47pm

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Notre Dame School in Santa Barbara, California is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a Commemorative Mass and Centennial Gala on May 29, 2026. The school, which has roots dating back to 1926, will honor its legacy of faith-based education, service, and tradition that has shaped generations of students and families in the region.

Why it matters

Notre Dame School's centennial marks a significant milestone for Catholic education in Santa Barbara, celebrating the enduring impact of the school and its predecessor institutions - Santa Barbara Catholic High School, Dolores School, and Notre Dame School - on the local community over the past century.

The details

The centennial celebration will begin with a Commemorative Mass at 5:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, celebrated by Bishop Slawomir Szkredka. Following the Mass, a Centennial Gala will be held at 6:30 p.m. inside the historic Notre Dame auditorium, featuring dinner, dancing, auctions, distinguished dignitaries, and guest presenters. The Gala will also honor the school's grand patrons, Mr. and Mrs. Nick Weber, for their exceptional and enduring support of Catholic education.

  • Notre Dame School was founded in 1926.
  • The Centennial celebration will take place on Friday, May 29, 2026.
  • Early Bird Tickets for the Centennial Gala will open on March 1st.

The players

Notre Dame School

A Catholic school in Santa Barbara, California that is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026.

Bishop Slawomir Szkredka

The bishop who will celebrate the Commemorative Mass as part of Notre Dame School's centennial celebration.

Mr. and Mrs. Nick Weber

The grand patrons of Notre Dame School who will be honored at the Centennial Gala for their exceptional and enduring support of Catholic education.

Alec Gasca

The principal of Notre Dame School.

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What they’re saying

“This milestone is more than a celebration of years—it is a celebration of people, faith, and community. We are proud to honor the past while looking forward to the future of Catholic education in Santa Barbara.”

— Alec Gasca, Principal, Notre Dame School

What’s next

Early Bird Tickets for the Centennial Gala will open on March 1st, and community members, alumni, families, and friends are encouraged to secure their place early to join in commemorating this historic occasion.

The takeaway

Notre Dame School's centennial celebration is a testament to the enduring impact of Catholic education and the power of community in shaping the lives of generations of students in Santa Barbara. The milestone marks an opportunity to honor the school's rich history while looking forward to the future of faith-based learning and service in the region.