Connections - July 2023

Message from the President

s I reflect on my tenure at Bishop Dunne, it is amazing how quickly time has passed. It seems like yesterday I first drove down Rugged and walked through the doors for the first time. I was told that Bishop Dunne was special; I quickly learned the truth of that statement.

Falcons are special and our community is unique. I have been blessed to serve as principal, president, teacher, and advisor during these last five years. The energy students bring to our halls always makes me laugh, bringing me immense joy and making my work at Bishop Dunne fulfilling.

AOur faculty works each day to make the Bishop Dunne experience complete for our students. They are committed to our mission and inspire our students. They remind me each day how educators can make a difference in the lives of our students.

The board of directors is deeply committed to the school and its future and I’m grateful to have had the good fortune to work with them. Their strategic work has helped shape the future of the school. As we have seen in the search for my successor, the board, under the leadership of Homero Gonzalez ‘92, continues to devote time and talent to helping shape the school’s future.

Since my conversation with leadership in the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Dallas, I immediately knew the diocese and the Bishop were committed to making Bishop Dunne a focus of their attention.

Dr. Alonzo and former superintendent Dr. Vereecke supported me and Bishop Dunne through challenging times, especially during the pandemic. They remain committed to our school and to ensuring our students can excel and reach full potential.

I leave Bishop Dunne with mixed emotions. I will miss the daily interactions with students and staff and the energy that comes as school opens at the start of a new year. I am also excited about my new adventures and having the flexibility to spend more time with my family, especially my young grandchildren. I am grateful to every member of the Bishop Dunne community. I am forever a Falcon!

Mary Beth Marchiony

Administration Changes Principal, Stephen Guerrero Assistant Principal, Michael Alfers ’97

Long time Bishop Dunne faculty and staff members Stephen Guerrero and Michael Alfers ‘97 assume principal and assistant principal roles

Mr. Guerrero came to Bishop Dunne in 1997 and has served as a teacher, coach, and administrator. As assistant principal, he worked with our faculty to ensure our students have a robust and well-rounded experience. He has coached cross country, wrestling and track and served as middle school athletic director. In 2009, Mr. Guerrero was awarded the Work of Heart Award and was named the Diocesan Distinguished Teacher of the Year in 2015. Mr. Guerrero trains diocesan educators and coaches in the Play Like a Champion program. He serves the St.

Elizabeth of Hungary parish as a member of the Knights of Columbus. Mr. Guerrero earned a master’s degree in Kinesiology from East Texas State University and a master’s in Educational Administration from the University of Notre Dame as part of the Remick Leadership Program. Throughout his years at Bishop Dunne, Mr. Guerrero has been a leader who has directly impacted the student experience.

Serving with him as assistant principal is Bishop Dunne alumnus Michael Alfers, former assistant director of the Middle School. Mr. Alfers graduated from Bishop Dunne in 1997 and returned in 2001 to teach and coach. He earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the

University of Notre Dame as part of the Remick Leadership Program. Mr. Alfers earned a Work of Heart Award in 2006 and 2020. He was recognized as the Diocesan Teacher of the Year and the State Catholic school Teacher of the Year in 2021. He has coached basketball at both the middle school and varsity level and was the TAPPS Coach of the Year in 2006 and 2011. Mr. Alfers guides the Dads Club and leads the student mentorship program. Mr. Alfers will report to Mr. Guerrero and together they will oversee the daily operations of Bishop Dunne.

Above, l-r, Stephen Guerrero, Michael Alfers

2022-2023

Bishop Dunne Catholic

School Board of Directors Connections Credits

Jann Laws Jackson Executive Committee

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Finance Committee

Financial Aid Liaison

Tammy Kuykendall Advancement Committee

Homero Gonzalez ‘92

Board Chair

Dr. Veronica Alonzo

Governance Committee Chair

Jon Buchanan ‘98 Compensation Committee Chair Executive Committee Finance Committee Chair

Shannon Cerise

Past Board Chair

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Chair

Finance Committee

Tom Clifford Executive Committee Finance Committee

Risk Management Liaison Strategic Planning Committee

Paula Day Advancement Committee Chair Strategic Planning Committee

Genaro Lopez Facilities Committee

David Martinez

Board Vice Chair Executive Committee Facilities Committee Chair

Ed Robben

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Finance Committee

Strategic Plan Committee Chair

Jason Saucedo Advancement Committee

Mark Vahala

Advancement Committee

Wayne Warren ‘79 Executive Committee Facilities Committee

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Editor

Kathryn Perry

Contributing Authors

Elisa Goodwin

Jenny Hood

Steve Smith

Photography

Misael Sandoval

Graphic Design

Phil Lor

Printing ThePrintSite

Alma Keglovits 2023 HALO Educator of the Year

Bishop Dunne alumna Alma Keglovits was recognized as a HALO Educator of the Year. “Mrs. K.”, as her students call her, is the child of a Catholic school teacher who was raised in the faith.

A native of Dallas and Oak Cliff, Keglovits’ parents were adamant about providing a Catholic education for their children. A Catholic family through and through, Keglovits attended St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School and later graduated from Bishop Dunne. Her four children attend Catholic schools, her husband teaches in the Diocese of Fort Worth and her mother was a teacher in the Diocese of Dallas for decades.

Science has been Keglovits’ love and focus since childhood, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of Texas at Arlington. At Bishop Dunne, she serves as a science teacher and chair of the science department. She believes her vocation offers her a wonderful opportunity to combine her passion for science and her love of her Catholic faith.

“As a teacher in Catholic school, I am not only able to help explain to my students the wonders of science which God has put into motion, but most importantly, I can freely praise Him for His glorious works while doing so each and every day in my classroom,” she said.

Mary Beth Marchiony, president of Bishop Dunne said, “Our students interested in science and medicine were asking for an outlet to explore their interest beyond the classroom. Mrs. Keglovits engaged our development director to help her connect with alumni and parents in the medical field. She invited the executive director of Parkland Hospital to come and talk to our students and took her students to tour the offices of one of our alumni doctors. She is serving our students in ways that extend well beyond the curriculum.”

Marchiony added that Keglovits’ passion for her students makes her popular on campus.

“The students love her,” Marchiony said. “When I was asking some sophomores recently who their favorite teacher is, they overwhelmingly said Mrs. K! When I asked why.... because she talks to them, she respects them, she makes learning real and she makes sure they have fun while learning.”

Marchiony said as a Catholic educator, Keglovits models Catholic behavior every day.

“Class always begins with prayer to maintain our Catholic identity and to settle the tone for the class,” she said. “She has been a servant leader since her arrival at Bishop Dunne.”

-excerpted from The Texas Catholic, May 5, 2023, p. 8

Above, l-r, Mary Beth Marchiony, president of Bishop Dunne, Alma Keglovits, Stephen Guerrero, assistant principal.

Above, l-r, Most Reverend Greg Kelly, Auxiliary Bishop, Most Reverend Edward J. Burns, Bishop, Alma Keglovits.

Senior Spotlight: Alex Rodriguez

Growing up in a devout Catholic home, Alex Rodriguez has always seen Easter weekend as a time of great celebration of his faith and his family.

Rodriguez had even more reason to celebrate this year.

“I found out on Good Friday that I got a full scholarship to Texas Christian University,” said Rodriguez, who joined the Class of 2023 on May 27 in graduating from Bishop Dunne Catholic School. “For me, it was one of the biggest blessings in my life, and it truly made our Easter celebration extra special.”

The Rodriguez family has become a legacy of success at the Oak Cliff school. His younger sister, Sarah, is a rising junior at Bishop Dunne. Older sister, Lola, graduated from Bishop Dunne in 2018, earning the Deacon Paul Wood Scholarship to attend the University of Dallas in Irving. She now teaches at St. Cecilia Catholic School.

“I wanted to be like her. I wanted to be successful like her, be involved like her, because she was a role model to me,” Rodriguez said of his older sister. “All the time, she would push me to my limit and get the best out of me. I guess you could say it’s all paid off.”

Rodriquez said that the siblings’ academic successes are made even more special by the sacrifices made by their mother, Virginia Aranda.

“She’s blessed us with so much even though we had so little,” said Rodriguez of Aranda, a single mother of three who for years has served as a teacher’s aide at nearby St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic School. “She would always put us first. She taught us to understand that no matter how little you may have — appreciate all the blessings you do have.”

Mark Clifford, a history teacher at Bishop Dunne Catholic School, called Rodriguez the type of student a teacher wants in class.

“Because he is teachable. He wants to learn. He wants to listen. He wants to help his classmates if they are having trouble understanding the content,” Clifford said. “I believe Alex is, as students say these days, ‘built different’ — he was born with the drive to be successful.”

Patty Salazar-Martel, assistant director of admissions and financial aid at Bishop Dunne, agreed, calling Rodriguez an excellent student.

“He’s always been very active in the Bishop Dunne community and always willing to serve the school,” she said. “His focus has always been on his family, faith, academics and serving his community. His leadership skills are outstanding, and he is a true example of what it is to be a Bishop Dunne Falcon.”

The mission of Bishop Dunne Catholic School is to empower each student to inquire, lead and serve. Salazar-Martel said Rodriguez has, without a doubt, been a great example for each core value, noting that he has served as a lead student ambassador since freshman year, a student council member, and an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. “He has a special passion for the Eucharist and enjoys helping others participate in the Eucharist.”

Clifford, who also serves as the school’s moderator for student council, praised Rodriguez for rising to accept challenges during his time at Bishop Dunne. Clifford pointed to Rodriguez’s leadership with the student council his junior year as an example. “His class was in need of a voice, and a leader, and I needed someone that was well-respected and would be willing to be a leader, so I reached out to him to join,” Clifford said. “Almost from the first day, he defined himself as a class leader. He was always one of the first to volunteer for our projects, he showed up early to help set up dances or other events, was key in helping organize donations, was involved with our volunteer work, and was a positive role model for others to look up to.”

Rodriguez plans to study business management at TCU. Having attended Catholic schools since first grade, he appreciates the opportunity to remain in a faith-based school as he heads to college.

“Faith has always played an important role in my life,” he said. “I knew that I wanted to go to a Christian, faith-based school. Getting the scholarship to TCU was an answered prayer. It’s going to allow me to grow my faith even more.”

- Michael Greshem, editor, The Texas Catholic (June 16, 2023)

Photo courtesy of Lynnet Perez Photography

Bishop Dunne Class of 2023 Graduates and College/University Choices

Calvin Chima Akpunku Magna Cum Laude Louisiana State University

Zoë Lejai Andrews Summa Cum Laude Prairie View A&M University

Diego Aspeitia Dallas College

Bryan Ayala

Undecided

Frida Elenissa Ayala Cum Laude University of North Texas

Mary Grace Bacsik Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Jonah Joseph Bailey

Undecided

Adrianna Grace Barfield Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Anthony Gene Bowen III Magna Cum Laude University of Texas Arlington

Gary Vontrez Cook Benedictine College

Lucija Patience Weld Coxe Cum Laude University of Arizona

Leanne Merideth Cross Summa Cum Laude Undecided

Dante Boaz Curry-El Magna Cum Laude Undecided

Connor Christian Davidson Summa Cum Laude Baylor University

William Patrick Davidson Magna Cum Laude Baylor University

Jaxson Steele Davis Texas Tech University

Mariella Ailene De La Fuente Summa Cum Laude Southern Methodist University

Lauren James Dunn Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Jayden Keyarion Eaton Cum Laude Oberlin College

Andrea Esther Escudero Summa Cum Laude Undecided

Nicole Rene Farmer Summa Cum Laude Colorado School of Mines

Melanie Brisha Flores Summa Cum Laude Dallas Baptist University

Cooper Wright Ford Summa Cum Laude Baylor University

Jadyn Elise Franklin Summa Cum Laude Spelman College

Jakobb Xzavier Galvan Cum Laude Dallas College

Leonardo Alonso Galvan Magna Cum Laude University of Texas at Dallas

Chris Garza Magna Cum Laude University of Texas at Arlington

Wyatt Donald Geary Summa Cum Laude Florida State University

Nevan Stenette Gibbens Summa Cum Laude Savannah College of Art and Design

Emily Alyssa Gonzalez Summa Cum Laude St. Edward’s University

Jake Allen Griffith Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Ricardo Marquez Hernández Cum Laude Mississippi Valley State University

Jeremiah Paul Horn Cum Laude Southwest Baptist University

Whitney Elizabeth Horner Summa Cum Laude Texas Tech University

Patrick O’Brien Horstman Magna Cum Laude University of North Texas

Carmen Nicole Johnson Cum Laude The Ailey School of Dance

Brooklyn Imani Jones Summa Cum Laude Texas Christian University

McKinley David Jordan Summa Cum Laude Georgia Institute of Technology

Elizabeth Grace King Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Jesse Joe Lara, Jr. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College

Christopher William Larkin Magna Cum Laude Texas State University

Nathaniel Thomas Lipscomb Cum Laude Undecided

Cristian Lopez Undecided

Sylvester Angel Lopez East Texas Baptist University

Ella Lozano Summa Cum Laude Flight attendant training with American Airlines

Allison Margarita Martinez Magna Cum Laude Texas Christian University

Ian Middleton McClintock Summa Cum Laude Loyola Marymount University

Michael Andrew Montoya-Sixtos Undecided

Obiolisa Brendon Ndu Louisiana State University

Victoria Kalee Jean Peña Summa Cum Laude University of Colorado Boulder

Brynna Elise Prasifka Summa Cum Laude Texas A&M University

Donald Wayne Quaite, Jr. University of Texas at San Antonio

Morgan Molly Reed Summa Cum Laude University of Houston

Sarahi Rivera Summa Cum Laude University Of Dallas

Isaac Mathew Rodriguez Cum Laude University of Texas at Arlington

Oscar Alexander Rodriguez Magna Cum Laude Texas Christian University

Frida Yatziry Salazar Undecided

Ricky Damond Scott, Jr. Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Arlington

Aiden Christian Shafer Summa Cum Laude Texas Tech University

Nastassia Gianna Sheffield Undecided

Catherine Violet Shultz Summa Cum Laude University of Oregon

Ariel Tamez Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Dallas (Honors College)

David Gerald Taylor III Summa Cum Laude University of Arizona

Mario Tijerina Undecided

Elizabeth Torres Summa Cum Laude Louisiana State University

Faisal Howard Torres Undecided

Patricia Enid Torres-Rodríguez Summa Cum Laude Texas State University

Kendall Gayle Washington Summa Cum Laude University of Texas at Austin

Morgan Marie Webb Cum Laude Texas State University

Ty Mathew Wolff University of North Texas

Andrew James Zamorano Magna Cum Laude Oklahoma State University

COMMENCEMENT

Saturday, May 27, the Bishop Dunne community gathered at Concord Church to watch 71 members of the class of 2023 graduate.

We were honored to have with us Most Reverend Bishop Edward J. Burns, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas, Father Ricardo Reyes, of St. Jude Catholic Church in Allen, and chaplain of Bishop Dunne Catholic School, Dr. Veronica Alonzo, associate superintendent of the Catholic Schools Office, Mrs. Mary Beth Marchiony, president, and Mr. Stephen Guerrero, assistant principal.

Master of Ceremony was Gary Cook. Jadyn Franklin was awarded the Golden Falcon for Outstanding Graduate. Salutatorian Jadyn Franklin, and valedictorian Mary Grace Bacsik both presented their remarks, followed by Mrs. Mary Beth Marchiony, who was also presented with a Golden Falcon for her years of service, and recognizing her upcoming retirement.

Bishop Burns opened the ceremony with the invocation and assisted with the conferral of diplomas. Mr. Matthew Lyons, director of college guidance read the list of graduates and schools of matriculation. Fr. Ricardo Reyes closed the ceremony with the benediction.

The Bishop Dunne band accompanied the service with the processional and recessional playing Pomp and Circumstance as well as the Bishop Dunne Alma Mater.

BACCALAUREATE

The class of 2023, with their families and friends, attended Baccalaureate Mass on May 25 at the Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Fr. Ricardo Reyes was Celebrant.

Readings were done by graduating seniors, Kendall Washington, Frida Salazar, and Ariel Tamez.

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion were Alex Rodriguez ‘23, Gabrielle Green ‘24, Karen Lugo ‘25, and Ryder Smith ‘26.

Mary Grace Bacsik, Valedictorian Jadyn Franklin, Salutatorian and Graduate of the Year

Photos courtesy of Lynnet Perez Photography

Honors and Awards to the Class of 2023

GOLDEN FALCONS FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

AFRICAN AMERICAN AWARENESS

Kendall Washington

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE CLUB

Zoë Andrews

CHEERLEADING

Mary Grace Bacsik

EMPOWERMENT

Kendall Washington

FALCONETTE

Jadyn Franklin

LATINOS UNIDOS

Mario Tijerina

NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY

Ariel Tamez

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

Jadyn Franklin

STUDENT AMBASSADOR

Alex Rodriguez

STUDENT COUNCIL

Mariella De La Fuente

OUTSTANDING FEMALE ATHLETE

Lauren Dunn

OUTSTANDING MALE ATHLETE

Jeremiah Horn

GOLDEN FALCONS FOR ACADEMICS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

Mary Grace Bacsik

ART

Mary Grace Bacsik

BAND

Leanne Cross

CAMPUS MINISTRY

Frida Salazar

ENGLISH

Jake Griffith

G.I.S.

Elizabeth King

MATHEMATICS

McKinley Jordan

ORCHESTRA

Diego Aspeitia

GOLDEN FALCONS AWARDED AT GRADUATION

SALUTATORIAN

Jadyn Franklin

VALEDICTORIAN

Mary Grace Bacsik

OUTSTANDING GRADUATE OF 2023

Jadyn Franklin

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT

Andrea Escudero

SCIENCE

Jaydn Franklin

SOCIAL STUDIES

Jaydn Franklin

TECHNOLOGY

Chris Garza

THEOLOGY

Ariel Tamez

WORLD LANGUAGE

Patricia Torres-Rodríguez

YEARBOOK

Catherine Shultz

SCHOLARSHIPS AND SPIRIT AWARDS

MARCUS SOMERSTEIN AWARD

Ricky Scott

KAREN COLLINS AWARD

Brooklyn Jones

SPIRIT AWARDS

Adrianna Barfield

Lucija Coxe

Jeremiah Horn

Brynna Prasifka

Alex Rodriguez

The Bishop Dunne library was filled with parents and donors in April for Thanks-4-Giving Day, as they eagerly awaited a performance from 19 students who were primed and ready to showcase their talents.

Actors Addison “Archerr” Kuykendall ’25 and Samantha Horner ’24 performed Act 2 Scene 4 of the Book of Will, a comedic and heartfelt story about the artists and friends who sought to publish William Shakespeare’s plays three years after his death.

Seven student jazz musicians, along with their director Daniel Harrelson, performed Miles Davis’ All Blues

Students showcased their talents in GIS Mapping, Robotics, Spiritual Formation, Archery, Leadership and Diversity, and so much more—bundled into 75 minutes of youthful exuberance.

The bi-annual event driving these performances is Thanks-4Giving, an event sponsored by Development & Alumni Relations for our community to marvel and celebrate the talent cultivated at Bishop Dunne.

Prior to Thanks-4-Giving, Bishop Dunne had sponsored an

Thanks-4-Giving International Women’s Day

In early March, the Development & Alumni Relations department, in partnership with the student-led Empowerment Club, presented its first International Women’s Day forum for students. Its purpose was to celebrate how far women have come, recognize what the current landscape is for women in business, and discuss what the future holds for them.

Former New York City news anchor and reporter for more than 20 years, Melissa Tamplin Harrison, facilitated the event and set the tone. Five talented, female professionals, University of Dallas marketing professor, Dr. Laura Munoz; Vice President of Technology at Southwest Airlines and Bishop Dunne parent, Kayce Ford; Zoologist, Danae Jackson ’15; Construction Lending Advisor Executive and Dunne parent, Joy Smith; and Senior Director of Strategic Operations & Governance, Lauren Rodgers ’08, shared their career journeys with our students.

Following the event, seniors were invited to join a post-event social to network with our speakers. We were grateful to our guests for investing their very valuable time in our students and look forward to continuing next year’s International Women’s Day forum as an annual tradition.

annual gala, the BD 100 Dinner. This event focused on mobilizing major donors to financially support Dunne while also briefly showcasing students to reflect the good work happening at Dunne.

Today, Thanks-4-Giving is open to all who wish to see the broad array of programs and extracurricular activities offered at Dunne. It’s a special time for all Falcon supporters. Unlike BD 100, you won’t get a fancy meal and have an excuse to dress up, but you will have dessert and drinks and be able to dress comfortably as you hear and see the transformative impact Bishop Dunne is making in our students’ lives and the community.

Bishop Dunne’s 2023 Golf Classic

It was a great day of golf at The Golf Club of Dallas on May 5, as Bishop Dunne hosted 141 golfers. Participants included parents, board members, alums, and other community members. It boasted a margarita hole, sponsored by alum-owned Tequila with Friends, and a food tent sponsored by alum-owned Smoky John’s Bar-B-Que, voted #1 barbeque restaurant in Dallas by Good Morning America! Our golf and band students helped man the contest holes and after a great day of golf, the event netted more than $45,000. Visit bdcs.org/support/golf2023 to see our list of supporting sponsors and pictures from the day’s event.

Homecoming 2022

The October weather was beautiful for Homecoming, as our football team played Legacy Christian, winning 35-21. Another win that night was the celebration, which assembled more than 200 parents and alums for a student-led tour; food, provided by alum-owned Terilli’s; music and dancing; and drinks from alum-owned North Oak Cliff Beer and Wine. Following the pre-game event, everyone moved to the multi-purpose room and outside tent area to watch the game while enjoying more drinks and snacks.

The theme for the evening was “There’s No Place Like Dunne,” so in true Wizard of Oz fashion, four alums were recognized: Vladimir Sosa ’03 for Most Innovative; Albert Gonzalez ‘88 for Biggest Heart; Gabriel Beltran ’97 for Most Courageous; and Denise Phillips ‘70 for Most Like Dorothy

Save the Date, Friday, October 6, for Homecoming 2023. Go Falcons!

The Bishop Dunne Band, led by Director of Band, Daniel Harrelson, and Assistant Director, Stephen Netsch, earned the privilege to perform at Carnegie Hall on Good Friday 2024! The challenging process to qualify was two years in the making. First, the Dunne band received Best-in-Class and Gold awards at the World Strides Heritage Festival in New Orleans in 2022, which qualified them to audition for a spot in the Carnegie National Band and Orchestra Festival. After intense practice, Mr. Harrelson submitted the band’s audition recording and was soon awarded with an in-

Carnegie Hall Father Tim Gollob

vitation to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. This music venue, opened in 1891, is considered one of the most prestigious in the world for classical and popular music. Famous musicians who have performed at Carnegie Hall include Tchaikovsky, the

Beatles, Elvis, and George Gershwin.

Alums interested in performing with current band students at Carnegie Hall for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity should contact Mr. Harrelson at dharrelson@bdcs. org for more information.

Father Tim Gollob, one of the first priests to serve at Bishop Dunne in the sixties, is still an avid supporter of Bishop Dunne and an active Falcon.

Father Tim can frequently be seen in the halls of Bishop Dunne sharing science materials, helping the school connect with former alums, and this past year, he celebrated the Mass for the Class of 2024’s ring ceremony.

Father Tim has a continuing interest in sports programs for girls. As a former girls basketball coach, Father Tim supports equity in girls’ sports and has been instrumental in helping Bishop Dunne provide adequate equipment and supplies for our female athletes.

Father Tim was also a guest speaker at Mrs. Keglovits’ science class to talk about ornithology. As a fervent bird watcher, Father Tim not only spoke about birds to the class, but also invited the science class on a field trip to the Trinity River Audubon Center.

After 60 years, Father Tim is still passionate about the impact Bishop Dunne has on the community and truly is a Falcon forever! Frequently seen in the Bishop Dunne hallways, be sure to thank him for his support!

A Fundraising Impact Report for School Year 2022-2023

Our Graphic Information Systems (GIS) program, Gaming, and Design computer labs received a major upgrade last summer thanks to the Diocese of Dallas, The Catholic Foundation, The Hoblitzelle Foundation, and an anonymous family who collectively donated $375,000 to redesign and upgrade our two technology labs.

This major, much-needed upgrade allows us to continue and expand these competitive technology programs for our students and to offer the top program in our region.

Another technology donation from the Patrick and Beatrice Haggerty Family Foundation for $172,000 allowed us to purchase 26 interactive white boards for our classes. These whiteboards are an effective teaching tool used to improve student engagement through collaborative learning methods.

A third technology donation came from a group of alums who

provided $10,500 toward the purchase of an advanced robotics kit for high school students. This gift will allow our high school students to compete nationally for the first time with other students studying robotics.

And finally, we celebrate the gifts received for our sports program, which include enhancements to the girls’ weight room: a fresh coat of paint for the walls, new weights, a wall mount and television, and benches. Additionally, softball bleachers were added, teams received new backpacks and Under Armor sweatpants, and Cheer secured new mats and funding to attend a regional competition.

This is just a portion of the many gifts we received to continue growing our programs, retaining, and acquiring strong teachers, and enhancing our facility to continue providing our Falcon students with a quality education.

Thank you for your support!

Parents’ Association Celebrates a Successful Inaugural Year

The Parents Association (“PA”) works to build community, raise funds, and support the school through events and functions conducted by parent volunteers who serve on the PA council, committees, and as grade level captains with the support of all Bishop Dunne parents. There are no membership fees and there are many ways to participate and get to know your fellow parents better.

Each year, the PA launches summer socials by grade and schedules two major gatherings at the school to communicate upcoming plans for the year. The kickoff meeting for each school year takes place in late August.

This year the PA grossed nearly $100,000 through two major fundraisers. Parents kicked off the school year in collaboration with Development to have a peer-to-peer fundraiser during North Texas Giving Day—an event that began in late August and culminated with a final one-day event on September 22. On that final day, band, drill, and cheer lined up to perform in front of the school as parents dropped off students in the morning. It was an exciting time as donors throughout Texas gave to their favorite charities. A Bishop Dunne priest very generously gave a $20,000 challenge gift to help kick off the PA fundraiser that ultimately grossed about $45,000.

Then, on April 27, the PA dressed in their favorite decade’s athletic wear at Chicken N Pickle, a unique indoor/outdoor complex,

to play pickle ball, eat delicious food, and participate in an auction and games to raise money for the school. As a result, the event grossed another $50,000 for the school!

Christine Horstman helped form the PA and was also its first president. As the 2022-2023 school year ended, Christine transitioned from PA president to a Bishop Dunne board member. We are grateful for Christine’s faithful service!

Curtique (CeeCee) Simon is the next president of the PA. She is a two-time Dunne parent with a graduate and a current student. Her oldest son, a member of the first 7-y ear advantage cohort, was Class of 2015 and her youngest son is Class of 2027. She has given her heart to everything she’s been involved with and supports where needed. CeeCee is committed to Dunne and can be found volunteering regularly.

She said, “We are more than grateful for the insight of our first president, Christine Horstman, and Mrs. Marchiony to create an opportunity where parents can come together as one entity to support our school, students, and staff. We thank all our parent volunteers who give of their time, talents, and resources to Bishop Dunne. We invite all supporters of Dunne to join us as we continue to shine our light in this community.”

Our school is only as good as its support system, and it takes parents and volunteers like you to help our school thrive! Please contact PA to learn more about how you can get involved at pac@bdcs.org.

The Arts

The Arts at Bishop Dunne have been very busy this year, with students excelling in many different ways.

Our theater students returned to the stage in a spring production of The Book of Will.

The show chronicled the creation of the First Folio, a massive collection of 36 of William Shakespeare’s plays that guaranteed the bard’s legacy survived to this day. The cast and crew of 13 students worked exceptionally hard to create a wonderful show. Despite setbacks and schedule changes, the students’ dedication to the show lent itself to two engaging, entertaining performances.

Several students received awards for their accomplishments throughout the rehearsal and performance process. The award for Most Accomplished Actor went to Guadalupe Espinoza, the award for Most Dedicated Member went to both Kendyl Page and Mariah Moreno, and the 2023 Drama MVP Award, as selected by the Drama Club, went to Addison “Archerr” Kuykendall.

As usual, our bands had another successful year! In addition to a great football season with our marching band and drum line, our students displayed their musical talents

in several other venues. Strings orchestra played at the Bishop’s Golf Tournament in September, alongside the newly formed Falcon Mariachi Band! This spring, Strings Orchestra also performed at the Meyerson as part of the Director’s Choice Music Festival. Under the direction of Mr. Michael Boss, the Advanced Orchestra performed “El Toro” by Brubaker, “Brandenburg Concerto #2” by Bach arranged by Parrish, and “Toccatina” by Hofeldt. They earned Superior Ratings and Outstanding in Class.

Members of the Bishop Dunne Band program submitted auditions for placement in the Texas Private School Music Educators Association (TPSMEA) All-State Jazz Band. Junior alto saxophonist Patrick Adao-Perez was selected first chair for the state in the auditions. This makes his first year to be selected to the All-State Jazz Band and his second year as part of the TPSMEA All-State Musicians, having been selected as first chair with the TPSMEA Symphonic Band as a sophomore last year. Congratulations to Patrick on his incredible work as a musician of the highest caliber!

In early December, several band mem-

bers auditioned for the ATSSB Region 3/20 Honor band. Of the 14 students who auditioned, the following students advanced to the ATSSB Area North Auditions and were invited to participate as a member of the ATSSB Region 3/20 Band: Ari Buck, David Taylor, Patrick-Adao Perez, Alex Real, Elias Young, and Donielle Woodard. In January, freshman Ari Buck traveled to be a part of the ATSSB Region 3/20 band, where he prepared and performed an entire concert in about 24 hours. Congratulations to Ari on his fantastic achievement!

Band students traveled to participate in the 2023 Four States Bandmaster’s Conference, where there were two concert bands and one jazz band. Bishop Dunne had four students selected to participate with the concert bands: sophomore Elias Young on tuba, juniors Gabriel Rodriguez on clarinet and Donielle Woodard on percussion, and senior David “Tripp” Taylor on contra clarinet. One student was selected for the jazz band: junior Patrick Adao-Perez.

In February, eleven musicians with the Bishop Dunne Band program participated in the TPSMEA North Region Honor

band at Greenhill School. Eight high school students worked under the baton of Dr. David Robinson for some eight hours, over a 24-hour period, to prepare an ambitious program.

Congratulations to: freshman, Ari Buck on clarinet; sophomore, Elias Young on tuba; juniors, Austin Johnson on clarinet, Gabriel Rodriguez on clarinet, Patrick Adao-Perez on saxophone, Alejandro Real on euphonium; seniors, Leanne Cross on percussion, David “Tripp” Taylor on contra clarinet (selected to participate but was unable to attend).

Three middle school students participated with the middle school honor band under the baton of Mrs. Robin Owens. Congratulations to: 8th grade flutist Alandra Barfield, 7th grade trombonist Scarlett Schwegmann, 8th grade trombonist Elliott Williams.

Middle school musicians, 8th grade clarinetist Rosemary Keglovits, and 7th grade trombonist Abigail Griffin, also qualified for the honor band but were unable to attend. Congratulations to the fantastic work by these amazing young musicians!

Finally, The Bishop Dunne Falcon Band

The Arts

was extended an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall on March 29, 2024, as part of the Carnegie Hall National Band and Orchestra Festival! They were extended this invitation after submitting a recording of their performance at the Director’s Choice Competition at the Meyerson Symphony Center in March.

The band will be preparing for this performance starting over the summer. Alumni of the Bishop Dunne Band program are encouraged to reach out to Mr. Daniel Harrelson, as they will be welcomed to join us to perform on stage as part of the celebration of 50+ years of band at Bishop Dunne.

If you would like to help support the band in their efforts to go to Carnegie Hall, any and all financial assistance is greatly appreciated so that all eligible students may participate. Congratulations to all Advanced and Intermediate Bands and their directors on their amazing accomplishments this year!

National Art Honor Society had a successful year, creating and distributing handmade ceramic Christmas ornaments during the staff Christmas party, and selling ceramic hearts for Valentine’s Day. NAHS also led a fun activity decorating Falcons during Falcon

Fest. Our newest students loved the opportunity to show their creativity and school spirit!

25 Bishop Dunne art students submitted work for the 2023 DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) Student Art Contest, and juniors Sophia Baez and Sydney Barner were selected as Honorable Mention winners in the 9th - 12th grade category.

Nevan Gibbens and Gabrielle Green submitted work to the 2023 Congressional Art Competition representing Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett. Their work was exhibited at the public library downtown in May.

There were over 50 2D and 3D works of art presented at the Bishop Dunne Student Art Show held April 24-28 in the school library. A reception was held Thursday, April 27 to announce 1st, 2nd, 3rd and Honorable Mention awards. Ms. Perry, Mrs. Hood and staff photographer/videographer Mr. Sandoval officiated as judges.

Our talented Falcons celebrated another amazing year showcasing their artistic abilities!

Club Highlights

Medical Society

The 2022-2023 school year was outstanding for the Medical Society Club! Starting early in the first semester, and continuing on throughout the year, we welcomed several guest speakers including retired nurse, Melva Gates, the director of Parkland hospital, Dr. Fred Cerise, and a doctor specializing in health equity and internal medicine, Dr. Anisha Ganguly. We were also pleased to have Bishop Dunne alum, Dr. Rick Caldwell, speak to us about his experiences in the field of medicine, along with Dr. Jeffrey Barnard, the chief medical examiner of Dallas on a separate occasion. In addition, students enjoyed the field trips visiting Dr. Mike Rios, a Bishop Dunne alum who specializes in developmental pediatrics. Students regularly attended meetings one-two times per month to focus on a health topic, play games related to the medical field, and discuss upcoming events.

To end the year, the club held its first health fair in the cafeteria along with school nurse, Jill Bradford, RN and the Mental Health Awareness Club.

Lastly, senior students were recognized for their participation in

the Medical Society Club by wearing a blue and gold cord at graduation.

We are looking forward to next year’s club fair, and welcome any guest speakers and volunteer opportunities in the next school year!

National Junior Honor Society

Officers Ryder Smith, Atiya Bartley and Addison Franklin led NJHS this year. We combined with Slavic Club to raise money and supplies for Ukraine first semester. As a club we also made a generous donation to the drive. All members completed community service hours and we inducted 15 new members in April.

Mental Health Awareness

The newly founded Mental Health Awareness club had a great inaugural year. Club-founder and president, Noah Pumphrey, led meetings with topics of dealing with exclusion, social media, anxiety, and depression. We are looking forward to growing more next year and reaching more students with tactics for dealing with mental health issues.

African American Awareness

The 2023-2024 school year was an exciting time for African American Awareness, being able to bring back some of our precovid programming!

Our programming for the 2022-2023 school year included a book drive, where donations were made to former Dallas Cowboys player Charles Haley’s Tackle Tomorrow program, creating October Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbons for the school, a Thanksgiving potluck, and a blanket drive.

We presented a Black History Month Assembly that highlighted black entertainment to the student body and collaborated with Children’s Genesis childcare center for the Little Known African American Program.

We are looking forward to the 2023-2024 school year.

Sports Recap

HS Girls Varsity Basketball

Coach Tiffany Thompson headed up a young varsity team to a challenging yet rewarding year. The sole graduating senior, Adrianna Barfield, was awarded 1st Team All-District and sophomore Gabby Gonzalez was named All-District Honorable Mention. As the 23-24 season approaches, the team looks to build a stronger, team fueled by returning players as well as new talent.

Falconettes

The 22-23 Falconettes Dance Team had another amazing year. They competed at several dance competitions bringing home numerous awards for their team and officers. The dancers received awards for their outstanding choreography, showmanship, precision, and technique. They won awards in pom, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop, as well as Academic Champions for their 3.89 cumulative GPA. At the state competition, the team won 5th Overall and the officers won 4th Overall. They received Best of the Best along with the Giving Back Award for their community service projects. The Falconettes performed at Disney World’s

Magic Kingdom over spring break in March. It was a magical trip for all of the dancers and parents.

The Falconettes Dance Team is celebrating 56 years this year. The organization began in 1967 as the Bishop Dunne Eyalettes. The team is under the direction of former Eyalette Captain, Kelly Melick Norman who celebrates her eleventh year with the team.

The BD Archery Team Captures Another State Championship

In March, the Bishop Dunne Archery Team represented the school at the NASP State Archery Tournament at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton, Texas. The team brought home the IBO Private H.S. State Championship for the 3D Archery Team division for the second time (first, in 2017). Desiree Quintero and Mateo Aillon were the team’s top shooters.

The strong shooters helped push the overall team score past every other private high school in the 3D Animal Competition and helped bring home second place silver medals for the Bullseye Target classification as well.

Sports Recap

Football finishes strong, with

a 7-4

record; Nathan Slaughter named District Coach of the Year

Bishop Dunne had an exciting football season as the team secured a playoff spot. The team worked as a strong, cohesive unit to fight to a 7-4 season, and Nathan Slaughter was name TAPPS District Coach of the Year.

“The mission of our football team is to compete, strive together, change for the best and be the gold standard every day in our academic, athletic, social and spiritual life,” said Coach Slaughter. “The vision of our football team is that each of these young men will become dedicated husbands, parents, and citizens of their community. We will accomplish this by demanding elite effort in their academic, athletic, social and spiritual lives. Our program will give our players a sense of belonging, a sense of community, and a sense of discipline. We thank the Bishop Dunne administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni for supporting us.”

TAAPS football awards to Bishop Dunne included MVP, seven 1st Team, nine 2nd Team, and six Honorable Mention, for a team total of 23 awards. Eight players secured scholarships and will be playing football at college this fall.

Middle School Rocks Sports’ Championships!

Bishop Dunne’s Middle School athletes were on fire this year, winning championships for baseball (team went undefeated), girls basketball, 8th grade boys basketball (team went undefeated), junior varsity track, and two individual city champions in cross country! The season was non-stop excitement and great sports-watching fun for fans. Bishop Dunne looks forward to watching these young athletes in the upcoming years as they become high school Falcons.

Volleyball

40 girls showed up during the first two weeks of summer for volleyball workouts. It was a season that changed future expectations among players and parents alike and made room for girls to take the sport more seriously. Dunne had four players earn district honors, including Laila Jackson (11), who made 1st Team All-District, and Grahson Harris (10), earning an Honorable Mention. Bishop Dunne will play a tougher preseason this year to prepare for the exciting challenge of battling our district opponents. The girls have a plan they intend to execute!

Principal Stephen

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