St. Paul’s Alumni & Friends Dinner and School Auction is the largest fundraiser of the year for St. Paul’s Lutheran School. At the annual fundraiser, the IMPACT Award recipient will be Sue Westerfield, long-time church secretary and school supporter.

The IMPACT Award is an annual award presented by St. Paul’s to those students, teachers, support staff and church members who’ve made significant contributions to our school and their community.

Westerfield moved with her family to Cullman in 1976 and has been serving St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School ever since.

A press release states, “For nearly five decades, “Sue has been an irreplaceable part of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and School family, serving with unwavering faith, dedication, and love. Sue exemplifies everything this award stands for, and her legacy of service has touched countless lives in ways we can only begin to express.

The IMPACT Award is inspired by 1 Peter 4:10-11: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever.”

“Sue’s life is a testament to this scripture,” the press release continues. “Since moving to Cullman in 1976, she has served St. Paul’s as our church secretary, providing essential support to clergy, staff, and our school. She views the school as the church’s ministry, supporting it not only in her work but also through quiet generosity that has had an immeasurable impact.

“Sue’s dedication goes far beyond her daily responsibilities. Over the years, she has been a fervent supporter of our annual auction, even bidding on — and winning — a skydiving experience, which she proudly completed to celebrate her 80th birthday. She approaches life with courage, joy and an adventurous spirit that inspires us all.

“Her faithfulness has shone brightest in times of challenge. During the tornado outbreak in April 2011, Sue sought shelter under the church stairwell. Once the danger had passed, her first thought was to check on the safety of the church and school before making her way home.”

The annual auction will be March 1, at Cotton Creek. Ticket and table purchase information is available at stpaulscullmanptl.com or in the school office. Follow St. Paul’s Lutheran School on Facebook and Instagram for the latest information regarding this and all other events at St. Paul’s Lutheran School.