Former Bush Advisor Karl Rove to Headline Desert Christian Academy Gala

Former President George W. Bush's top adviser Karl Rove will speak at Desert Christian Academy's annual gala and auction on March 2, it was announced Tuesday.

The gala at the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort in Indian Wells, which includes an auction, is the primary fundraiser for the school's Tuition Assistance Program, which enables students of any socioeconomic background to attend Desert Christian, according to school spokeswoman Tara Bravo.

Last year, Laura Bush was the headliner.

Rove served as Bush's senior adviser from 2000 to 2007 and deputy chief of staff from 2004 to 2007. After working at the White House, Rove was a contributor to Fox News and supported Republican candidates around the country.

He wrote New York Times bestseller "Courage and Consequence: My Life as a Conservative in the Fight" and is a regular contributor to the Wall Street Journal and other publications. He serves on the University of Texas Chancellor's Council Executive Committee and on the board of trustees for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation and the Texas State History Museum Foundation.

"We are absolutely delighted that Mr. Rove has agreed to come and share his story at our annual auction this year," said Dave Fulton, Desert Christian Academy founder and head of school. "Whether you agree with his politics or not, he will provide an extraordinary message, and is a great example of a person putting his principles first in life."

More than 60 percent of students enrolled at Desert Christian receive financial assistance, which the school spends nearly $1 million on each year, according to Bravo.

Tickets start at $150 and are available by calling (760) 345-2848 or going to www.desertchristianacademy.org.

-- City News Service