The 24th Annual Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction brought together friends, supporters, and community partners on Monday, October 12, 2026, at Norwood Hills Country Club for a memorable day of golf, connection, and support for students with disabilities.
From the first tee to the final auction bid, the day was a reminder of what makes this event so special: a community that believes every student deserves opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
Volunteers, SEF Board members and staff, and special education community leaders welcomed golfers for a day filled with friendly competition and generosity. The morning kicked off with a delicious brunch and Shorty’s Putting Contest, where golfers tested their skills before heading out to the course.
Before tee time, Dan McLaughlin thanked golfers for their continued support of the Special Education Foundation (SEF). SSD Superintendent Dr. Maclin and SEF Executive Director Tim Eby shared their appreciation for the generosity that helps SEF fund programs and resources for students with disabilities across St. Louis County. Their remarks highlighted the real difference this event makes for students, educators, and families throughout the community.
Out on the course, golfers enjoyed the hospitality of volunteers, sponsors, and local businesses, including Lakeside Roofing and Jersey Mike’s Subs. From refreshments to creative hole activities, these partners helped make the day fun while supporting a meaningful cause.
As the afternoon transitioned into evening, guests gathered at the clubhouse for happy hour and program. The presentation highlighted the meaningful impact of past tournament proceeds, including SEF’s Mobility Project, which helps provide students with greater access and independence. Dan McLaughlin also interviewed Erin Stone, an SSD educator and mom, who shared how SEF has supported her daughter, an SSD student, and their family over the years. Her personal story brought SEF’s mission to life and set the stage for Fund-a-Need, when guests raised their hands to support programs that provide critical resources, enriching experiences, and new opportunities for students with disabilities.
The Live Auction added even more excitement, with bidders competing for incredible experiences and packages. Brad Hagemeyer took home golf packages that include foursomes at Bellerive, St. Albans, and premier courses in Cape Girardeau and the Lake of the Ozarks.
Peter Marbayer wins the Taste of the Town– fine dining experiences donated by SEF’s Women Leaders and a 2027 season performance at Stages St. Louis. The St. Louis Cardinals Party Suite will be filled with 29 of Dr. Julia Burke’s friends and family for an unforgettable time next baseball season. Each winning bid in the silent and live auctions represented more than a great find—it helped support SEF's mission and the students who benefit from its programs.
The Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction remains SEF's largest annual fundraiser, helping provide resources and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach for students with disabilities. Every sponsorship, round of golf, auction bid, and volunteer hour contributes to that impact.
Thank you to our sponsors, golfers, volunteers, auction donors, and supporters for making the 24th Annual Tournament such a special day. Your generosity helps SEF continue its mission of assisting students with disabilities in St. Louis County in achieving success in ways not supported by tax dollars. We are grateful to everyone who made this year's tournament a success—and who continues to make a difference in students' lives. See all the morning photos to share and download from this year’s event. More photos coming soon!
