Timothy Dolan and Tony de Nicola honored for Catholic education leadership

At the National Catholic Educational Association’s 2026 Gala in Washington, D.C., leaders from the Archdiocese of New York were recognized for their contributions to Catholic education.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop emeritus of New York, received the Seton Lifetime of Service Award for his long-term commitment to the Church and educational institutions. Anthony J. “Tony” de Nicola, chairman of the Invest in Education Foundation, was presented with the Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for his efforts in expanding educational opportunities and scholarship access.

De Nicola has been a key figure in the national movement to pass the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit program. Scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, this program will establish a federal individual income tax credit for contributions made to scholarship-granting organizations. Qualifying contributors can receive credits of up to $1,700, or $3,400 for married joint filers, to support K-12 scholarships.