SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE GALA
Saturday, November 21, 2026
[AV] Irvine | 5:30 PM
Black Tie – Black and White Palette Requested
Recognized as one of Orange County’s premier philanthropic events, IPSF’s Spirit of Excellence Gala brings together influential leaders, innovators, and changemakers who believe in the power of public education.
This year is especially meaningful as IPSF celebrates 30 years of advancing educational excellence and unlocking what’s possible for every student.
Exclusive, prestigious, and undeniably fun, the Spirit of Excellence Gala has become the place where community champions unite to drive bold opportunities for students and fuel innovation that shapes tomorrow.
Join us for an immersive evening inspired by the Spirit of Excellence, featuring:
- complimentary valet + red carpet arrival
- champagne welcome, cocktail reception + silent auction
- student performances
- live auction + fund-a-need
- special live entertainment
- dessert + dancing
Together we will raise a glass, raise our paddles, and raise the bar for what is possible for future generations of students!
All contributions will be generously matched by the City of Irvine, doubling the impact for our students.
For questions and to reserve your sponsorship, please contact Neda Eaton.
2026 SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE HONOREE
Excellence in Service Honoree
James Morioka
Woodbridge High School, Class of 2006
James Morioka’s love of the ocean began at a very early age, but an inspiring teacher and hands-on experience in an IPSF Summer Oceans class helped turn that passion into a path toward marine biology.
Today, James serves as Executive Director of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project (PMDP) in Honolulu, leading efforts to protect one of the world’s largest marine conservation areas from large-scale marine debris. After 14 successful field missions, PMDP has removed more than 1.3 million pounds of derelict fishing gear and ocean plastics that threaten fragile marine ecosystems and endangered wildlife, including the Hawaiian monk seal and green sea turtles.
IPSF is proud to honor James with the Spirit of Excellence Award in Service for his lifelong commitment to conservation and education.
Featured Special Guest
Oren Jacob
University High School, Class of 1989
We are thrilled to welcome back 2011 Spirit of Excellence in Arts honoree Oren Jacob as our featured guest. A proud graduate of Irvine schools, Oren has built a career at the intersection of creativity, technology, and storytelling. During 20 years at Pixar, he helped bring films including Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and Brave to life. He went on to cofound and lead the startup PullString, spend six years at Apple working on Siri, and now helps shape the future of gaming and creativity at Roblox.
2025 SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE SPONSORS