The black-tie gala honors notable individuals while raising funds for student scholarships at Sacred Heart University. Discovery Awards will be presented to Westport resident Bonnie Hammer, the president of the USA Network and Sci Fi Channel; and Wilton residents Jim Costello, former vice president and comptroller at GE, and his wife Ginny, an active community volunteer.

Rosanne Badowski, the long-time executive assistant to GE's legendary Jack Welch will receive the Alumni Award of Excellence, and Monsignor Kevin Wallin, the pastor of Bridgeport's Cathedral Parish of St. Augustine will receive the Curtis Medal of Honor.

Dave Price, weatherman and a feature reporter for CBS News' The Early Show, will be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Event chairs are Mark E. Freitas, President & CEO of Frank Crystal & Company; Linda McMahon, CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment; and Bill Mitchell, vice chairman of Mitchells of Westport and Richards of Greenwich.

The gala event begins with a reception and silent auction at 5:45 p.m. Silent and live auctions will include gifts such as a private lunch with famed CEO Jack Welch, a Vespa Scooter, jewelry, a European vacation, art, theatre and sporting event tickets. Festivities will continue with the awards ceremony, dinner, a performance by Sacred Heart University's chamber choir, 4 Heart Harmony, under the direction of Dr. John Michniewicz and dancing to the music of Jay Stollman and The All Stars.

Over the past 17 years, the Discovery Dinner has raised millions of dollars for financial assistance to deserving scholars.

The event will take place on the University's main campus, 5151 Park Avenue, Fairfield. Sponsorships begin at $1,500, and individual tickets are $250. All proceeds will benefit the University's Scholarship Fund.

For more information and reservations, call 203-365-4802.