The Magazine for the Bishop Dunne Community - July 2021
WWW.BDCS.ORG
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
1
Message from the President
W
hat a year it’s been. Unprece-
sure our students were engaged with daily
dented, extraordinary, unparal-
lessons and learning, despite the challenges
leled, incomparable; call it what
of teaching in dual, simultaneous environ-
you like, it was a year like no other. A year
ments.
for which there was no model, no footprint,
Following Thanksgiving, Christmas and
no precedent to follow. A year where we
spring breaks, our students studied remotely
were determined to keep our students learn-
for a week, minimizing the chance of family
ing, and our school community safe.
gatherings and travel over the holidays leading
We worked all last summer to establish
to an outbreak of COVID in our school. We
safety protocols; reconfiguring classrooms,
were diligent, and our efforts were rewarded
the cafeteria, the library, and placing one-
when we completed the school year with no
way arrows on hallway floors. We recorded
spread of the virus in our school. Thankfully,
temperatures of faculty, staff and students
the few students and faculty members who
daily as they came on campus, and we asked
contracted the virus recovered. As, with the
everyone to mask up, stay six feet from each
rest of the world, light at the end of the tunnel
softball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and
other, and at times quarantine at home. We
came in the form of three vaccines and rap-
every other sport set to resume play for both
adopted new ways to share our students’ ac-
id inoculation efforts. The Diocese of Dallas
our middle and high school students. We
complishments, using videoconferencing,
formed partnerships that allowed us to offer
are thrilled to have fans return and loudly
streaming and video recordings. We took
the vaccine to our faculty, staff and students.
support our Falcons. We long for the sound
photos outside, using the fresh air and social
We were able to vaccinate over 100 students on
of happy voices in the hallways and student
distancing to allow us to take off our masks
campus this spring.
camaraderie in the cafeteria as they push the
and breathe.
Mary Beth Marchiony, President
Honors Convocation, the 8th Grade Cele-
tables together to enjoy lunch. The sound
The class of 2020 belatedly celebrated
bration, Baccalaureate, the senior picnic, and
of singing, and live drama performances will
graduation in July, at Concord Church,
Commencement were all held in late May.
return and events such as GeoTech will once
following strict COVID protocols. As luck
Honors Convocation was held in the school
again be part of the school year. We are truly
would have it, five minutes into the cele-
gym, with guests in attendance. Twenty-one
excited to see what the new school year will
bration, a major power outage forced us to
Golden Falcons and three scholarships were
bring.
quickly divert to plan B, a theme that fol-
awarded. Baccalaureate was held at St. Eliza-
Legendary UCLA basketball coach, turned
lowed throughout the year. However, we
beth of Hungary Catholic Church, with Fr. Russ
author, John Wooden said, “Things turn out
persevered. We celebrated our seniors and
Mower celebrating Mass for our students and
best for people who make the best of the way
their fortitude and sent them off to bright
guests. On May 28, 2021, graduation was held
things turn out.” I believe this to be true of our
futures.
at Concord Church with Most Reverend Ed-
students, faculty, staff and our families. Life
We opened school with remote learning
ward J. Burns, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas,
handed us, especially the classes of 2020 and
in August, returning to campus in early Sep-
and Dr. Matthew Vereecke, Superintendent of
2021, lemons. We did our best to make lem-
tember. We hosted hybrid learning through-
Catholic Schools, Diocese of Dallas, in atten-
onade. It wasn’t always perfect, but with every
out the year, with our teachers concurrently
dance. The venue prominently displayed the 74
adjustment, it became a little sweeter.
teaching classes to students in the classroom
graduates in the Class of 2021, as they faced the
and those learning remotely. Like the rest of
audience from their perch in the choir loft.
My sincere thanks to our supporters, board and committee members, faculty and staff,
the world, the phrases, “You’re frozen”, and
We look forward to 2021-22 with great
students, and families. Together, we perse-
“You’re on mute”, became part of our ver-
excitement and a return to normalcy. We
vered through the worst pandemic in history,
bal repertoire. Our incredible faculty went
can’t wait to hold pep rallies again, host fans
and we are still here, proudly watching our
above and beyond the call of duty, making
under Friday night lights, attend basketball,
Falcons soar higher and higher!
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
WWW.BDCS.ORG
2020-2021
Connections Credits
Bishop Dunne Catholic School Board of Directors
Editor Kathryn Perry
Jann Laws Jackson Finance Committee Financial Aid Liaison
Contributing Authors Mary Gracheck Devin Nguyen Steve Smith
Tammy Kuykendall Advancement Chair Genaro Lopez Facilities Committee Shannon Cerise Board Chair Dr. Veronica Alonzo Governance Chair Executive Committee Jon Buchanan ‘98 Compensation Chair Finance Committee
David Martinez Advancement Committee Larry Milton ‘79 Governance Committee Drexell Owusu Advancement Committee Strategic Planning Committee
Tom Clifford Finance Committee Strategic Planning Committee Risk Management Liaison
Ed Robben Vice-Chairman of the Board Executive Committee Strategic Planning Chair Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee
Homero Gonzalez ‘92 Finance Committee Chair Executive Committee
Mark Vahala Advancement Committee
Arturo Herrera ‘09 Diversity and Inclusion Committee Academic Affairs Committee Liaison
Photography Misael Sandoval Cover Photo Kevin Bartram Graphic Design Phil Lor Printing ThePrintSite
Wayne Warren ‘79 Governance Committee Dave Woodyard Advancement Committee
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2021 TCCB Teacher of the Year..........................................................2
Remembering Dunne For Decades..................................................10
Class of 2021.........................................................................................3
Savannah Everett ‘21..........................................................................11
Graduation 2021...................................................................................4
Golf Classic 2021................................................................................12
Honors Convocation............................................................................5
Dunne Together..................................................................................13
Dad’s Club Continues Service............................................................6
The Arts...................................................................................... 14 – 15
Administrator Highlight......................................................................7
Collegiate Institute at Bishop Dunne...............................................16
60th Anniversary.............................................................................8 – 9
Sports Recap........................................................................................17
WWW.BDCS.ORG
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
1
Dr. Diana Torres Rivera
L – Dr. Torres Rivera, R – President Mary Beth Marchiony
Dr. Diana Torres Rivera Named 2021 TCCB Teacher of the Year
D
r. Diana Torres Rivera was selected as the 2021 Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops High School Teacher of the Year. The award, announced Feb. 1, was created to recognize and celebrate Catholic school teachers across the state who have shown “remarkable dedication to the spiritual and intellectual formation of their students.” “I am very honored and happy, not just for me only, but that our entire school is being recognized,” Torres Rivera said. “I think it lets us all know that people are paying attention to, and appreciate what we are doing.” Torres Rivera added that every student and faculty member at Bishop Dunne is a part of the award she’s received. “Without them, I would not have any of this success,” she said. “It sounds like a cliché, but it is totally a team effort. I’m just so happy I get to share it with everyone here at Bishop Dunne.” In a letter to Torres Rivera, Lisette Allen, director of education for the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, said the selection committee was “most impressed” by Torres Rivera’s passion for teaching as a vocation and ministry. “As a Spanish teacher, you emphasize the importance of culture and the Catholic faith and go beyond the academic objectives of literacy and fluency, 2
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
challenging students to lead holy lives,” Allen wrote. “This is truly extraordinary.” Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Dallas, Matt Vereecke, said Dr. Torres Rivera’s award from TCCB was the Diocese’s first ever. “This is a very big deal and really quite an honor,” said Vereecke, noting that there are more than 390 Catholic schools in the state with more than 20,000 employees. “When we talk about the best of the best — we’re talking about Diana Torres Rivera truly being the best of the best.” Torres Rivera, who began her teaching career at the University of Seville in Spain while completing her Ph.D., has taught at the Oak Cliff school since August 2016. When she was hired as a Spanish teacher at Bishop Dunne, it marked the first time she worked in a faith-based school setting. She said it quickly became clear she had made the right choice. “Bishop Dunne is the reflection of our faith, welcoming, nurturing, passionate and diverse. I remember leaving the interview and saying that I was so excited to have the opportunity of being a teacher and also sharing my faith intentionally.” “We’ve known all along what a gem and a treasure she is for our school, and we are thrilled that Diana has been recognized
statewide,” said Mary Beth Marchiony, president of Bishop Dunne. “We feel we are really blessed to have someone like Diana, who believes in the mission of Bishop Dunne and who believes so much in our students.” Marchiony praised Torres Rivera for having an “incredible gift” when interacting with the students, making her popular with students, their families and her colleagues. “Our kids love her because she is so engaging in the classroom,” she said. “And she is a great colleague. She does all the little things that need to be done in a school to make everyone around her successful.” At Bishop Dunne, Torres Rivera has been the chair of the school’s World Languages Department since 2018 and the sponsor of Latinos Unidos since 2017. The Bishop Dunne president added that Torres Rivera’s faith also plays a key role in her impact on the community. “Faith is an important part of who she is and she brings that to the classroom — and not just her Spanish classes but also to our entire school community,” she said. “To have teachers who have such strong faith makes us all better. To have her a part of our team, we are just so lucky.” Excerpted from The Texas Catholic, 2/2/2021, Michael Gresham. WWW.BDCS.ORG
Bishop Dunne Class of 2021 Graduates and College/University Choices
Francisco Candelario Aguilar Paloma Sunflower Arellano Serafin Aspeitia Flor Alyssa Baez Bryce Biagas Haleigh Nicol Brisco Denim Brown Garrett Brown Cayden Houston Butler Oscar Camarillo Cassidy Sanai Carlisle Benjamin Casas Elizabeth Renae Castillo Reynaldo Castillo Viviana Alexa Chapa Olivia Claire Dugger Olivia Carolyn Durham Savannah Nicole Everett Meghna Ann George Noel Marie Gibson Leah Abigail Gonzalez Michael Anthony Gonzalez Sofia Danae Gonzalez Tyler Shaun Greer Alina Marie Hampton Jaylan Quincy Hayes-Fain Jonathan Trent Hemphill Marc Anthony Herrera Samuel Cole Hymes Kasey McKenzie Jackson Marcus Mosiah Johnson Mylan Allen Jordan Gregory Sean Lane, Jr. Viviana Elise Leos Adrian Joshua Lopez Jesus Marquez Anne Nagorka McKenzie Andrew Noah Medina
WWW.BDCS.ORG
University of Texas at Austin University of Houston University of Texas at Arlington Southern Methodist University Hampton University University of Oklahoma Alabama A&M University Currently undecided Lubbock Christian University Baylor University Belmont University Pace University Southern Methodist University University of Texas at Arlington Northeastern University Texas Christian University University of Arkansas St. John’s University New York University of North Texas University of Cincinnati Dallas College at El Centro Texas Tech University Abilene Christian University University of Oklahoma Dallas Baptist University Alabama A&M University University of Texas at Arlington Dallas Baptist University Citadel Military College of South Carolina University of Houston Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Hampton University Oberlin College Tarleton State University University of North Texas University of North Texas at Dallas Rice University University of Texas at Arlington
Areli Mejia Sierra Mercado Elizabeth Marie Meyer Natalia R. Michel-Hernandez Juan Pablo Morales Kelsey Shea Mulligan Jorge Munoz Jade Michelle Nash Abigail Marisela Navarrete* Joshua Olage-Ramos Timothy Earl Peterson II Maurice Prince Tarryn Leigh Richards Grayson Andrew Ries Emily Jazmin Rivera Liam Nicholas Robbins Zoe Veradella Rolle Luis David Rubio, Jr. Bryan Salazar Joshua Elazar Scott Jack Lewis Shultz Nicholas Aaron Smith G’Colby Andre Spidey Samuel Payne Strong Sarah Gabrielle Tamez Mary Helene Tawil Zachary Ryan Thibodeaux Cecilia Torres Marisa Katherine Tully Madison Rain Valades Savannah Enjoli Vasquez Belén Citlali Vega Teresa Sofia Villarreal Pierce Alexander Weller Jeffrey Han Yang Marcos Alejandro Zertuche
University of Dallas University of North Texas at Dallas University of Texas at Austin University of North Texas Dallas College at Eastfield Texas Tech University Texas Tech University University of Oklahoma Iowa State University University of North Texas Prairie View A&M University Dallas College at Mountain View University of Texas at Arlington Colorado State University Dallas College at Mountain View Texas Tech University University of Texas at Arlington National Park College Southern Methodist University Penn State Harrisburg Oregon State University Texas A&M University Centenary College of Louisiana University of Houston University of Texas at San Antonio Texas Tech University Yale University University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Arlington Coastal Carolina University Texas Woman’s University Dallas Baptist University Concord Technical School Tarleton State University Texas Tech University Dallas Baptist University *Deceased
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
3
Graduation 2021
B
ishop Dunne hosted commencement on May 28, 2021, at Concord Church. Seventy-four seniors walked the stage to receive their diplomas. Concord Church provided a stunning backdrop featuring the senior class perched in the choir loft at the front of the church, facing the audience. The bright blue caps and gowns set a vivid stage for the ceremony. Bishop Dunne was honored to have Most Reverend Bishop Edward J. Burns, Bishop of the Diocese of Dallas, in attendance. The Bishop Dunne Band provided music prior to the ceremony for the processional
4
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
and the National Anthem. Pierce Alexander Weller ’21 was the class-chosen Master of Ceremonies, beginning the ceremony by introducing Bishop Burns, who delivered the invocation. Salutatorian, Francisco Candelario Aguilar, delivered his address to his fellow classmates, family, friends, and faculty. President Mary Beth Marchiony announced the Outstanding Graduate of 2021 as Anne Nagorka McKenzie, presenting her with a Golden Falcon. Valedictorian, Olivia Claire Dugger, followed with her address to the attendees.
Director of College Guidance, Charleen Doan, introduced the graduates, as the conferral of diplomas was completed by Bishop Burns, Dr. Matthew Vereecke, Superintendent of Catholic Schools and President Marchiony. President Marchiony followed with her remarks, and Reverend Russ Mower, Bishop Dunne Chaplain and Pastor of St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Church, delivered the benediction. The band ended the ceremony by playing the alma mater and the recessional.
WWW.BDCS.ORG
Honors Convocation Recognizes Outstanding Graduates in the Class of 2021 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES African American Awareness Savannah Everett American Sign Language Savannah Everett
Cheerleading Mary Tawil
Falconette Kasey Jackson
Drama Savannah Everett
Latinos Unidos Belén Vega
National Art Honor Society Sofia Gonzalez
Spanish Honor Society Anne McKenzie Student Council Samuel Hymes
National Honor Society Olivia Dugger
SPIRIT AWARDS Savannah Everett
Olivia Dugger
Samuel Hymes
Nicholas Smith
ACADEMIC AWARDS Advanced Placement Zach Thibodeaux
Band Elizabeth Meyer
Mathematics Anne McKenzie
Social Studies Anne McKenzie
Art Sofia Gonzalez
Campus Ministry Juan Morales
Orchestra Jaylan Fain
Technology Jack Shultz
Outstanding Female Athlete Sofia Gonzalez
English Belén Vega
Outstanding Achievement Adrian Lopez
Theology Belén Vega
Outstanding Male Athlete Samuel Hymes
GIS Olivia Dugger
Science Noel Gibson
World Language Anne McKenzie
MARCUS SOMERSTEIN SCHOLARSHIP
KAREN COLLINS SCHOLARSHIP
Samuel Hymes
Cassidy Carlisle
WWW.BDCS.ORG
Yearbook Sam Strong
Belén Vega
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
5
Dad’s Club Continues Service for Dunne Community
T
he Bishop Dunne Dad’s Club was founded in the fall of 2018, when a group of Falcon fathers gathered together and began discussing ways to get more involved in their student’s journey. Using the Rosemont School model as inspiration, the Dad’s Club aims to create a united community comprised of dedicated dads who want to be involved in strengthening and supporting the Bishop Dunne and Oak Cliff communities. In 2020, responding to the effects of the pandemic, the Dad’s Club looked for ways to help Bishop Dunne families experiencing tough times or in need of lifted spirits, through the genesis of a simple idea - delivering hot meals. The dads decided to partner with Bishop Dunne, family-owned restaurants like Smokey John’s BBQ, bbbop, and El Taxqueño Taqueria, to fulfill their mission of feeding and bringing joy to the Dunne community. In the Fall of 2020, the Dad’s Club rallied together and secured corporate sponsorships in order to provide free homecoming t-shirts to all students, faculty and staff. That winter, they introduced the inaugural Bishop Dunne Christmas Parade. The parade brought together club moderators to decorate and prepare a show filled with a live nativity scene, Kwanza decorations, a Star Wars fight sequence, performance from the Bishop Dunne Band and 6
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
Strings Orchestra, inflatable holiday icons, and a lot of Christmas cheer to the Oak Cliff community. Just under 300 cars drove through the parade, and a new Dunne tradition began. When spring arrived, the Dad’s Club focused their efforts on helping the Bishop Dunne baseball team repair the batting cage, while also providing beautification to the campus. The Dad’s Club held the second annual Bishop Dunne Car Show in June, showcasing a collection of some 80 vintage and unique cars, various small businesses, multiple food vendors and hosting more than 275 visitors. Throughout the last three years, the Bishop Dunne Dad’s Club has grown in both friendship and fellowship. As the Club looks to its future, it hopes to thrive in service and grow the opportunities for community connection.
Dad’s Club Members: Luis Martinez David Cardoza Anthony Macias Marcelo Carrillo David Taylor Greg Pumphrey
Donald Miller Pero Vrucinic Jimmy Prasifka Jeff Dunn Gian Lipscomb Maurice Aguilar ’92
Johnny Green ’97 Jason Hawthorne David Rosas Chris Moffett Chris Shultz Mike Alfers ’97 WWW.BDCS.ORG
Administrator Highlight with Christine Voigt
C
hristine Voigt, Director of Curriculum and Instructional Technology, was first connected to Bishop Dunne in 1995 through the GeoTech Conference. Later, in 2000, she began working part time at the school, assisting with the GeoTech Conference, grant writing around educational technology, and providing professional development for faculty. As the use of technology in education grew, so did her role at Bishop Dunne. Some of the innovations she has helped to implement include: • 2000 Learning management system and digital gradebooks for all classes. Creation of the first Bishop Dunne website • 2001 Assisted in creation of the Bishop Dunne GIS lab • 2005 SMART Boards and teacher desktops in every classroom • 2008 iPod 1:1 program for students and faculty. Teacher created lesson podcasts • 2008 Originated the school’s social media accounts • 2009 eBook integration • 2010 BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), No snow day policy • 2018 Integration of Office 365
When asked about the impact of the pandemic on education in general, Christine stated, “There were no experts on educating during a pandemic, no research or ideas, but there were lots of possibilities. Often we stated the fact that this is our ‘first day of teaching’ no matter how long we have been educators. Over the summer we defined what teaching and learning would look like. We discussed schedules, student engagement, community, health and safety, and communication. It was not all about technology, it was about instruction and ways to continue building connections with our students and families. The pandemic has forever changed teaching and learning, presenting us with a ‘new normal’, not just for Bishop Dunne, but for the world. Bishop Dunne will continue to be one of the leaders of innovation and teaching.”
Today, we take things like this for granted, but early on, Bishop Dunne was on the cutting edge for many of these innovations. Christine is an award-winning educator and author receiving recognition from the Texas Alliance for Geographic Education and the National Council for Geographic Education. She has a Master of Science in Computer Education and Cognitive Systems from UNT, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from SMU. During her 29 years as an educator, Christing has taught English, literature, science and social studies from grades 6-12. She is wife to Brian and proud mom of two Bishop Dunne Falcons, Robert ’18 and Anthony ’25. She chose Bishop Dunne as a parent for the same reason she was attracted to the school as an educator; its diversity, dedication to social justice, and preparation for the real world. Bishop Dunne was recognized by the Diocese of Dallas for being well-prepared, easily pivoting to online learning in March 2020, while other schools were still trying to figure out how to make it happen. Technology is so infused in Bishop Dunne’s day-to-day instruction, it is expected. Throughout the pandemic, Bishop Dunne was able to persevere and continue moving forward without losing any instructional momentum. WWW.BDCS.ORG
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
7
60th Anniversary Timeline Brothers of the Sacred Heart completed their service
Founded as Our Lady of Good Counsel High School
Name changed to Bishop Dunne High School
Two football state championships One softball state championship
Officially became a co-educational institution
Six boys track & field state championships Six girls track & field state championships
1960
8
CONNECTIONS
1970
JULY 2021
1980
199
WWW.BDCS.ORG
The Sisters of St. Mary of Namur completed their service
Orender Family Complex Established Middle School and became Bishop Dunne Catholic School
GeoTech Conference founded
Vincent Langbein Memorial Garden Monsignor Milam J. Joseph Auditorium
Crystal Charity Ball and Middle School classroom expansion
Father Timothy Gollob Garden Sanctuary
Dallas Southwest Osteopathic Building
90
2000
WWW.BDCS.ORG
Hybrid Learning due to COVID-19 Pandemic
2010
2020
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
9
Remembering Dunne For Decades
W
hen Denise Phillips ’70 remembers her late husband, Rodney Phillips’ 66, she describes him as a kind and exceptional man who understood that love requires patience, forgiveness, trust, and loyalty. Rodney, who passed away in early 2021 from Alzheimer’s Disease, attended Bishop Dunne alongside his older brother, Robert ’65, and his younger sisters, Jane ’68, and Joyce ’69. He and Denise met in 1976, having been joined together by the spirit of Christ.
“We stay connected to Bishop Dunne not only because of the education we received, but maybe more importantly because of the lifelong friendships we made.” Denise recalls, when Rodney was first diagnosed, classmates from the classes of 1966 and 1970 came forward and remained supportive throughout Rodney’s journey. Denise taught English at Bishop Dunne in 1994 and 1995. From 1995 until her retirement in 2017, Denise directed the Office of Campus Ministry at the University of Dallas.
Denise Phillips ’70 honors her late husband, Rodney Phillips ‘66
10
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
Rodney, meanwhile, founded the Texas Pecan Company in the early 1970s, now managed by their youngest son, Ryan Phillips. Denise firmly believes that Catholic education needs to remain a viable option for all families. “It cannot become - and I know it already has on some level - an education only attainable for the wealthy.” Denise states that a Catholic education has the ability to teach students in the most practical ways to live a Christian life beyond philosophical or academic notions. “My love of the Catholic faith and its traditions and the ministries in which I was involved both at the University and Diocesan levels, came from two Sisters of St. Mary of Namur - Sr. Patricia Ridgley and Sr. Miriam Nesmith. These women had a serene passion for Jesus Christ and His Church. Their peaceful demeanors and prayers exemplified the adage that faith is caught, not taught.” In Rodney’s memory, Denise made a gift of $10,000 to provide tuition assistance for future Falcons through the Dunne Together initiative. Rodney, who loved basketball, credited the sport for helping him remain active and focused through his battle with Alzheimer’s. Denise proclaims, “The outside shot Rodney was known for stayed with him during his disease, even when he could only shoot left-handed!” Rodney was voted Most Valuable Player in basketball his graduating year, and fondly remembered the experience as his best high school memory. Rodney learned the discipline it took to become not only a skilled player, but a team member - he believed that team sports was an invaluable addition to academic excellence, both of which he obtained at Bishop Dunne. WWW.BDCS.ORG
Savannah Everett ‘21
Watch this Falcon Soar
W
hen it came time to choose a middle school, Savannah Everett already knew Bishop Dunne was home. She had grown up attending older sister Elyse Bryant’s ’12 many activities. “I can remember sitting in my stroller, watching my big sister at many different events. Bishop Dunne was a big part of my life long before I was old enough to become a student.” Savannah is one of 24 seniors in the class of 2021 who are 7-Year Advantage students – meaning they started Bishop Dunne in sixth grade and have continued through to graduation. The relationships she has cultivated during her tenure at Bishop Dunne have molded her mentally and spiritually, while preparing her for her future. During her seven years, she tried a little bit of everything on the path to finding her passions. “I tried it all, clubs, athletics, organizations, even dance, eventually narrowing down my true interests. Volunteering stood out at Bishop Dunne. I like helping others and seeing the impact of that help.” Her love of service is deeply ingrained in her. “In the late 1960s my grandmother started a pre-school in Plains, Georgia, for children who weren’t allowed to attend ‘regular’ school for reasons such as race or religion. She recognized a need, and she created a solution.” WWW.BDCS.ORG
A true community leader, Savannah is a dedicated member of Campus Ministry, African American Awareness (AAA), American Sign Language (ASL) as well as a member of National Honor Society, and Drama. Her dedication and excellence were recognized at Honors Convocation, where she received four Golden Falcons, Bishop Dunne’s highest recognition. She is also the Lead Student Ambassador and a multi-year performer with Strings Orchestra. In April, Savannah placed first in 5A Poetry performance category and second in 5A Prose performance in the TAPPS Academic State Competition. As the highest scoring student across all 5A Speech performance categories, Savannah was awarded the Virginia Wirth Award. “I’ve always loved any kind of speech competition and any way I can express myself through voice or written word.” Two years in a row, she won the Dallas Mavericks Black History Month writing contest. Her subjects? Furthering Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream and establishing community between races. Savannah’s favorite classes are English and Social Justice. An avid reader, she loves books with historical context. Her best-loved book, Long Way Down, by Jason Reynolds, greatly impacted her. Reynolds, who was the keynote speaker at Bishop Dunne’s Literary
Festival in 2019, was instrumental in her developing awareness. She had the honor of introducing Reynolds at LitFest that year and had the opportunity to tell him how impactful he had been to her development. Savannah will be attending St. John’s University in Queens, pursuing a degree in Speech-Language Pathology and a minor in Social Justice. She chose St. John’s because of her experience with ASL, and her interest in different ways people process information and communicate. “Communicating is done so many ways. Sign language is just another form of communication and a different way to express yourself.” Savannah has been accepted into the Ozanam Leadership Program at St. John’s. Working closely with dedicated faculty and administrators, Ozanam Scholars investigate and address real-world social justice issues, inspiring change throughout their college careers and beyond. There were more than 400 applicants for this prestigious program, and only 25 were admitted. When asked what she wanted to do after college, she stated, “Explore my options! I’d love to travel. Maybe a program and learning experience where I can move around to different places using my degree. Ultimately, I’d like to start my own clinic.” Without a doubt, Savannah Everett is a young woman to watch! JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
11
T
he annual Bishop Dunne Golf Classic was held April 20, 2021 at Stevens Park. The tournament was a huge success thanks to the efforts of our dedicated and loyal board members, alumni, faculty and staff. Thirty-four teams played this year, and more than $50,000 was raised for academic and athletic programs at Bishop Dunne. The weather was picture perfect and everyone had a great time. Thank you to Mutual of America for being Golf Cart Sponsor and Larry Milton ’79 as our Lunch Sponsor for the tournament. The winners for the tournament were:
First Place
Closest to the Hole:
Saucedo Team
Hole 4 - Rich Dopson Hole 7 - Kiel Jared Hole 8 - Kyle Wick Hole 12 - KK Matlock Hole 14 - Kathy Hewitt Hole 17 - Josh Haverland
Second Place Reed Team
Third Place Frost Bank Team
Long Drive Winner: Melanie Winders on Hole 9 Thank you to all that made the day such a success. We are already working on the 2022 Bishop Dunne Golf Classic, so plan to join us next year!
12
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
WWW.BDCS.ORG
Dunne Together
T
he Dunne Together initiative was launched in 2020, raising over $1 million to support our four pillars; tuition assistance, professional development, technology and infrastructure and student enrichment. This was achieved while observing COVID-19 restrictions, which did not allow any events or small gatherings on or off campus. Huge credit for these accomplishments goes to Bishop Dunne’s loyal donors, alumni, families, and faculty and staff, who gave of their time, talent, and treasure to ensure students continued to receive Bishop Dunne’s transformational education.
Tuition Assistance Funds were used for both merit scholarships and needs-based assistance for the 70 percent of our student body who received significant financial aid. Universities Bishop Dunne graduates will be attending include Yale University, Rice University, and University of Texas at WWW.BDCS.ORG
Austin. The 2021 Bishop Dunne Valedictorian received Texas Christian University’s Chancellor’s Scholarship, a four-year tuition and fees award.
Professional Development Support for our teachers enables them to bring their “A” game to the classroom every day. Teacher excellence in the classroom equates to excellence not only for students, but for the future of Bishop Dunne Catholic School. Funding was provided by the Beatrice and Pat Haggerty Foundation for teacher certification for the Collegiate Institute. In partnership with Dallas College, we will have eight teachers certified to teach college-level courses on the Bishop Dunne campus.
Technology and Infrastructure State-of-the-art technology, a strong secure network, and cutting edge applications to enhance the learning experience are paramount to our success. Through
the efforts of board Member, David Martinez and financial support from the Duda Family Foundation, we were able to provide our teachers with laptops. Additional technology upgrades included network infrastructure, new servers and increased security.
Student Enrichment Bishop Dunne offers two unique programs for student enrichment, College Ready Academy (CRA) and Collegiate Institute (CI). CRA, a program for first generation students attending college, saw 14 graduates gain admission to college this year. Support was provided through the David M. Crowley Foundation. Students who successfully complete the four-year CI program concurrently receive a high school diploma and an Associate of Science degree through Dallas College, at no additional tuition cost. Students earn 60 hours of credit that are transferable to all Texas universities and colleges. JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
13
The Arts Arts
Bishop Dunne Visual Arts continues to flex its creative muscles and resourcefulness in spite of COVID-19 limitations. Allie Ramirez and Hannah McKee ’10 had students learning from home repurpose commonly used items to create paper sculptures and to paint portraits out of highlighters, pens, and magazine cuttings. Once in-person instruction resumed in the late fall, Falcons explored a wide variety of media to enhance their understanding of art sustainability and to expand their use of the elements and principles of art.
Band
The Bishop Dunne Band celebrated over 50 years of musical artistry and had the chance to showcase the students’ dedication to their craft at this year’s March performance. Led by Daniel Harrelson and Stephen Netsch, band students honed their skills through Bishop Dunne marching band, drumline, wind ensembles, and jazz band. The Bishop Dunne Band continues to receive recognition at the regional, state, and southern state events, earning superior ratings in all categories. 14
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
WWW.BDCS.ORG
The Arts Strings Orchestra and Strings continues to provide its students with a musical and spiritual experience that allows them to explore symphonic orchestra literature arrangements and plays. Each student is equipped with the lessons and guidance needed to hone their mastery and appreciation for their string instrument. Each cohort is given ample knowledge on the theories, terminologies, and music histories relevant to their craft.
Drama The Bishop Dunne Drama Club showcased their pre-recorded spring show, The Internet is Distract-OH LOOK A KITTEN! by Ian McWethy on the evening of Friday, May 7, 2021. Due to social distancing guidelines, the play moved from an in-person performance to streaming via Broadway On Demand. To keep up with the exciting developments of the Bishop Dunne Drama Club, follow their new Instagram account @dunnedrama.
Choir *Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Bishop Dunne Choir did not perform this year. We look forward to the sound of melodious voices in the 2021-22 school year. Stay tuned! WWW.BDCS.ORG
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
15
Collegiate Institute at Bishop Dunne
B
ishop Dunne is the only Catholic high school in the Diocese of Dallas to offer its students an Associate of Science degree upon graduation from our Collegiate Institute program. Bishop Dunne launched the Collegiate Institute in partnership with Dallas College in the spring of 2020. Upon successful completion of Collegiate Institute, students may enter any Texas university or college with sixty college credit hours. The dual credit courses are offered at no additional cost to our families and most are taught on the Bishop Dunne campus. We admitted approximately 50 percent of the freshman class into the inaugural cohort. In 2021, the Collegiate Institute cohort increased by 25 percent. This program is funded by the Templeton Foundation, the Patrick and Beatrice Haggerty Foundation, the Mike and Mary Terry Foundation and HALO. This exciting program, makes Bishop Dunne Catholic School a very attractive and more affordable choice for families in Oak Cliff and the southern suburbs.
16
CONNECTIONS
JULY 2021
WWW.BDCS.ORG
Sports Recap Middle School
Falconettes
While the Middle School sports teams and student athletes’ seasons were canceled by DPL, they still continued to improve skills and compete in athletic events. Our thanks to the coaches and their staffs who set up an intramural league among the student-athletes to allow them to enjoy their athletic pursuits. The students participated in a different sport each day. From baseball and flag-football to basketball and kickball, our student-athletes competed in sports they may not have previously played. In the spring, Bishop Dunne participated in a West Dallas club league. Our baseball team, comprised primarily of sixth and seventh graders, competed against other private and public middle school teams. Representing the fighting Falcon spirit and competing as intensely as they would during a normal season, the team ended the season by winning the league championship! Our thanks to alumni Mike Bacsik, Sr. ’70 and Bishop Dunne parent Mike Bacsik, Jr. for coaching and leading the team to victory. We celebrate our athletes’ dedication and perseverance in making the most out of a year without their normal competition schedule, practices with friends and teammates, and no fans in the stands. We look forward to seeing all the growth and success that next year’s DPL season will bring for our student-athletes.
The Bishop Dunne Falconettes participated in a full season of performances. The dancers also volunteered for three community service events in the DFW area. The team prepared seven dances for competition, winning first place and Best-in-Class in the team and officer events at the DFW Dance Championship. The Falconettes placed third overall and won Best-in-Class at the Texas Dance Classic in both the team and officer divisions. In both competitions, the team won Academic Champions for having a 4.0 GPA among its team members. The Falconettes were presented with the Giving Back award at both competitions for their outstanding community service activities throughout the year. Falconette Captain Kasey Jackson won first place for her solo at both contests and was one of the top scoring soloists for all the high school divisions.
Track & Field Cayden Butler – 2021 TAPPS 5A State Champion for high jump
Archery Bishop Dunne Archery ranked second in the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) Texas State Tournament for target and 3D animal shooting.
Tennis Senior Sofia Gonzalez finished undefeated, winning the TAPPS District Tennis Tournament. Freshman Lauren Smith was also undefeated until the District Tournament, where she placed fourth overall.
Cayden Butler ‘21
WWW.BDCS.ORG
JULY 2021
CONNECTIONS
17
President Mary Beth Marchiony mmarchiony@bdcs.org
Admissions Jenny Hood jhood@bdcs.org
Advancement Mary Gracheck mgracheck@bdcs.org
External Relations Kathryn Perry kperry@bdcs.org
facebook.com/bishop.dunne
bishopdunne
@BishopDunne
Bishop Dunne Catholic School
Bishop Dunne Catholic School 3900 Rugged Drive • Dallas, Texas 75224 • 214 339 6561
b dc s .org
|
b d cs.org /don ate
