Annual De La Salle Medal Dinner Raises a Record $3.6 Million for Manhattan College

The Manhattan College 2023 De La Salle Medal Dinner honoring Michael K. Wirth, chairman and CEO of the Chevron Corporation, raised $3.6 million making it the most successful dinner in the event’s history. The dinner provides essential funding for the College and assists in making a Manhattan College education accessible for students by supporting scholarships, financial aid and programming. 

The event was held at The Plaza, on Thursday, April 20, to a sold-out crowd. Brother Daniel Gardner, FSC, president of Manhattan College, Thomas O’Malley ’63, chair of the Manhattan College Board of Trustees and Stephen J. Squeri ’81, ’86 (MBA), chair-elect of the Manhattan College Board of Trustees and chairman and chief executive officer of American Express Co., presented the De La Salle Medal to Wirth.

“Mike has been that bold, decisive, courageous leader, said Brother Daniel. “His character and his actions demonstrate a man of action, a man of commitment, a man dedicated to improving our world. He runs a very profitable and successful company, but Mike sees issues that affect humanity and leads his company to be an agent of change.” 

Previously, Wirth served as vice chairman of the board in 2017 and as executive vice president of midstream and development from 2016 to 2018. In that role he was responsible for shipping, supply and trading and pipeline and power operating units. From 2006 to 2015, Wirth was executive vice president of downstream and chemicals and president, global supply and trading from 2003 to 2006. He joined Chevron as a design engineer in 1982 and holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Colorado.

“Great leaders seek to touch the hearts of people, encourage them to grow intellectually, stay true to their values and strive to always do what’s right for their families, communities and society,” said Wirth, as he accepted the De La Salle Medal. 

Mary Beth McDade ’93 served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. McDade is an Emmy award-winning anchor and reporter with KTLA 5 News in Los Angeles. Prior to joining KTLA, she worked at KCBS, Fox 11, ABC 7, News 12 Long Island and Good Morning America. 

Established by Manhattan College in 1951 in honor of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, founder of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and patron saint of teachers, the College’s board of trustees has viewed the medal as an opportunity to honor executives who exemplify the principles of excellence and corporate leadership.