Catholic Education Luncheon 2023 Program Book

TODAY’S PROGRAM

WELCOME ................................. Taylor Epps, WKBW Reporter & Emcee

INVOCATION ...................................

Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher 15th Bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo

IMPORTANCE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION ..................... Nancy Gugino

Executive Director, Foundation of the R.C. Diocese of Buffalo

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

CHAMPIONS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Donna and Bill Collins

Charles G. “Chip” Jones, Jr., posthumously

SISTER LUCILLE SOCCIARELLI - FR. JOHN STURM MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD

Vicky Petricca, St. Christopher School

SELFLESS GIVING AWARD

Russell J. Salvatore

DISTINGUISHED PASTOR AWARD

Rev. James Ciupek, Nativity of our Lord Parish, Orchard Park

DISTINGUISHED PRINCIPAL AWARD

Karen Rahill, DeSales Catholic School

NATALIE MATTIMORE LEWIS KINDNESS COUNTS CHARACTER AWARD

Savannah Brooks, SS. Peter & Paul School, Hamburg

TIM RUSSERT SCHOLARSHIP FOR CREATIVE WRITING

Sarah Romanowski, St. Gregory the Great School

CLOSING REMARKS ............................................................ Nancy Gugino

Thank you to today’s emcee, Taylor Epps, from WKBW.

My Dear Friends in Christ, Welcome and thank you for joining us this afternoon. I am so grateful we are able celebrate the 23rd Annual Catholic Education Luncheon in person, since we have been celebrating this annual event from a safe distance the past two years.

As we move forward, I want you to know that I continue to place a very high value on Catholic education. Now more than ever, we need to hold true to our Catholic identity and faith

traditions while cultivating a new generation of faithful, visionary and compassionate future leaders. It is my desire to see our Catholic school students thrive and to have the wherewithal to make a significant impact in Christ’s image throughout our community.

This afternoon, we stay true to the roots of this event by celebrating those who make Catholic education so exceptional and in raising funds to make a high-quality, Catholic education available to more children. Since this event’s inception in 2001, with your assistance, the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo has raised more than $7 million in need-based

tuition assistance for Catholic elementary students. At a time when many may be seeking an effective means to actively participate in the Church’s mission and to re-imagine our Church, Catholic education brings the promise of very good fruit. It is an investment providing unmatched returns.

Throughout many years, this event has provided the platform to honor some of those that have made a significant difference in Catholic education, and this year is no different. The individuals we recognize at today’s luncheon demonstrate that Catholic education is very much a collaborative and selfless effort.  From the classroom, to the family dinner table, to the corporate boardroom, those we honor tonight help advance the mission of our Catholic schools, enabling our children to lead prosperous lives in keeping with the Gospel message of love thy neighbor.

On behalf of the Diocese of Buffalo, I offer my sincere thanks for your generous support and for joining us as we make our schools a place for all God’s children. May God continue to bless and keep you safe as well as those whom you love.

Yours sincerely in Christ,

The Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher Bishop of Buffalo

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOUNDATION OF THE R.C. DIOCESE OF BUFFALO

I am honored and humbled as Executive Director of the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo (FRCDB) to be with you today to celebrate and support the importance of Catholic education in the eight counties of Western New York. Many thanks to the Foundation’s Board of Directors, committed staff and the tireless efforts of all our committee members and volunteers, and, most importantly, to YOU who continue to go out of your way to support the good work of this Foundation. I am most grateful to each one of you as your work and attendance here today is proof of your commitment to the future of Catholic Education - premier centers of academic excellence in all of Western New York.

This afternoon’s event highlights the importance of Catholic education and its impact on our students’ and their families’ lives. Each year, the FRCDB receives letters of gratitude from families expressing their sincere appreciation for the assistance the Foundation is able to provide because of your most generous support. As a matter of fact, many of our families – even with a two-income household – are struggling to make ends meet during these challenging times.

Their commitment to a Catholic education is their priority and one that often requires many sacrifices made by the entire family. Many of our families find they are in arrears with tuition payments due to rising costs of living, particularly with the events of the past three years. The Foundation takes those calls and works tirelessly with these families as we believe that no child should be denied a Catholic education due to an inability to pay.

We often hear sentiments from students that remark about how their school family is the one stable thing in their lives – how their friends and teachers offer support to their home family and how they love their school family much like their home family.

Thank you for your presence here today. It truly is a display of your devotion, dedication and undying support. Your presence tells a lot about you and how important

a Catholic education is to you. Whether you attended a Catholic elementary or high school, or experienced a Catholic education through your own children or grandchildren, you understand the impact our faith foundation provides for generations through this life formation opportunity. The mission remains strong- to instill in our children the values necessary to be successful in their careers while displaying a presence as a humble disciple of Christ. Today’s fundraiser is dedicated to needs-based tuition assistance for students attending Catholic elementary schools and high schools in Western New York.

We are very proud of our continued partnership with the BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund. This year alone, the FRCDB gave BISON nearly ONE MILLION DOLLARS to be used for Catholic education scholarship funding! I think this speaks volumes of your generosity and the good work your commitment supports. Your support allows scholarships to continue, which in turn offers stability for both our families and our schools.

Once selected, BISON commits to assisting the student for the full nine years of elementary school, including grandfathering in younger siblings, for as long as the family remains financially eligible. We share both BISON’s view that a quality education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and BISON’s requirement that families contribute a minimum of $500 each year.

Last year, the FRCDB initiated an Emergency Tuition Assistance Fund for difficult situations that may not meet the BISON Fund criteria but are extraordinary and truly in need of support. In the past few years, we have seen an increasing number of special circumstances and unexpected short-term hardships for our Catholic families. Sometimes it’s loss of a job, an unexpected death in the family or a change in the family’s financial position that requires consideration. With the dollars raised for this special fund, the FRCDB is able to help more families experiencing hardship that do not want to sacrifice their child’s Catholic education.

Thank you for recognizing and respecting the importance of all this work, the reason why we are all gathered here today. Your support plays an integral role in a child’s life formation by allowing them to remain in a Catholic school. Be sure to Text2Give 716-249-0106 or scan the QR code to further support our mission to sustain Catholic education in WNY.

I look forward to meeting with each and every one of you in the months ahead and, until then, I remain

Sincerely yours,

Nancy Gugino EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo

Most Reverend Michael W. Fisher and the Diocese of Buffalo

offer prayerful congratulations to

Champions of Catholic Education: Donna & Bill Collins Charles G. “Chip” Jones, posthumously

Making a Difference Award: Vicky Petricca – St. Christopher School

Distinguished Pastor Award: Rev. James Ciupek – Nativity of Our Lord, Orchard Park

Distinguished Principal Award: Karen Rahill – DeSales Catholic School

Selfless Giving Award: Russell J. Salvatore

Natalie Mattimore Lewis Kindness Counts Character Award: Savannah Brooks – SS. Peter and Paul Hamburg

Tim Russert Creative Scholarship for Writing: Sarah Romanowski – St. Gregory the Great School

Real Presence. Real Hope. Real Mission.

EVENT SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

Bond is proud to support the 2023 Catholic Education Luncheon and the Foundation’s mission of increasing access to Catholic education in Western New York.

EVENT SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

EMERGENCY TUITION SPONSORS

TABLE SPONSORS

Kristin & David Bauer

Mary Grace & Paul Bauer

The BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund

The Diocese of Buffalo Catholic Education Department

Netplus Alliance

RP Oak Hill Building Company

CENTERPIECE SPONSORS

Aries Transportation

Gina & Dan Roblin

St. Francis High School

Russell’s Steaks, Chops & More

St. Amelia’s School

Southtowns Catholic School of St. John Paul II Parish

Trautman Associates

Tronconi, Segarra and Associates

Wittburn Enterprises

A/V SPONSORS

Diocese of Buffalo Formation Office

Trocaire College

KOESSLER FAMILY FOUNDATION

The Kenneth L. & Katherine G. Koessler Family Foundation

PROGRAM BOOK SPONSORS

FACTS Management

Joyce E. Fink

St. Stephen’s Parish & School, Grand Island

DONORS

Anonymous

Rev. James Augustyn

Thomas R. Beecher, Jr.

Brayer & Neil

Buffalo Academy of the Sacred Heart

Rev. Msgr. Paul J.E. Burkard

Catholic Charities

Christ the King School

Sr. Carol Cimino

Rev. James Ciupek

Connect Life

JoEllen & Richard Cronin

Richard Cronin

Dr. Catherine Gogan

Guard Construction & Contracting Corp.

John Heckel

Mary & Rick Heist

Maureen & John Hurley

Beth & Joe Ieraci

Katie Juhasz

Joe Kapsiak

Ellen Koessler

Carol Kostyniak

Dr. Michael LaFever

Peter Lyster

Cynthia Mathews

Jeanne Magavern

Barb & Jerry Mazurkiewicz

Barb Mierzwa

Deacon Richard Parker

Jeff Porcelli

Pratt Collard Buck Advisory Group

Nativity of Mary School

Niagara University

Notre Dame High School

Mary Elaine & Kevin Spitler

St. Stephen’s School, Grand Island

Thomas Toy

James Turner

Tom Vacanti

Dennis Walczyk

SPECIAL THANKS

Foundation staff, for your support

Dr. Timothy Uhl

Taylor Epps, for your services as emcee at our events

Keller Brothers Printing

The PowerHouse at Buffalo Color Park

SVS Solutions

WBBZ-TV

Robert Zotara

Joe Martone

Nicole Dzimira

Rich’s

Donna and Bill Collins

Charles G. Jones Champions of Catholic Education

Vicky Petricca

Sr. Lucille Socciarelli/Fr. John Sturm Making a Difference Award

Rev. James Ciupek

Distinguished Pastor Award

Karen Rahill

Distinguished Principal Award

Russell J. Salvatore Selfless Giving Award

Savannah Brooks

Natalie Mattimore Lewis Kindness Counts

Character Award

Sarah Romanowski

Tim Russert Creative Scholarship for Writing

for your lifetime of service and generosity to our diocese and community.

The Habib Charitable Fund

HISTORY OF THE CATHOLIC EDUCATION DINNER

In February 2001, during Catholic Schools Week, the Diocese of Buffalo initiated the Celebrate Catholic Education Dinner. Through the efforts of a dedicated committee, working with the Diocesan Board of Education and Foundation office, the dinner attracted an overflow crowd of Western New Yorkers to celebrate their belief in and support of Catholic education.

Inaugural guest speaker, Tim Russert, shared his story of the impact of Catholic education: “I would not be here tonight if it were not for my Catholic education in Western New York.”

In successive years, the event continued to draw even larger crowds celebrating Champions of Catholic Education.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION LUNCHEON

“Catholic education has been at the core of our family culture for generations ... it has provided a strong moral framework and a rock-solid Catholic identity.  We can think of few endeavors more important to us as a family than to support our Catholic schools.”  -

DONNA AND BILL COLLINS, 2004 Chair Couple & 2023 Champions of Catholic Education

Mindful of the struggles many families continue to face amidst these times, the 2023 Planning Committee re-envisioned our annual fundraiser yet again. What began as the Catholic Education Dinner in 2000-2001, then re-branded as Gala 22:6 in 2014-2020, and attempted to be a Cocktail party in 2022 (but was transitioned to a television broadcast due to COVID), is now a Luncheon Event to support our WNY Catholic Schools! We so appreciate all our supporters who help the growing number of families in need meet the cost of Catholic education. In addition to an in-person Luncheon event, this event will also be televised on WBBZ-TV on Saturday, January 28, 2023 from 4 - 5 pm.

Honoring those who serve the Catholic school students of Western NY, the Catholic Education Event has a dedicated mission of providing need-based tuition assistance for families across Western NY. This event is the expression of the support and spirit of our community. It is an opportunity for foundations, corporations, parishes and educational institutions throughout Western NY to come together in support of our children and their schools. It is also the vehicle to honor Western NY organizations, individuals, universities and foundations that have lived out the mission of Catholic education and positively impacted this community.

For information about joining Mary, Mother of Vocations Ministry, Inc. please contact Susan Santandreu at (716) 649-2058 or ssantandreu7@verizon.net.

www.mmvminc.org

THE PARTNERSHIP OF THE FOUNDATION and BISON CHILDREN’S SCHOLARSHIP FUND

The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo has been helping Catholic families who need financial assistance to attend Catholic schools since tuition was introduced. When lay teachers were required to replace the dwindling number of dedicated religious who had built and ran nearly all of our Catholic elementary schools, the economics of Catholic schools changed. In response, Catholic schools began to charge tuition to cover the costs of administering and staffing the schools.

At its height in 1965, there were 78,760 students that attended the Diocese’s 181 elementary schools, with an average school size of 435. Through various reassessments, the parishes and Diocese have adjusted the number of elementary schools to reflect the Catholic population and demand for schools. In the current year, the Diocesan’s 35 Catholic elementary schools serve 7,149 students.

Without a tuition voucher program in New York State, families who own property that wished for their child to attend a Catholic school paid tuition in addition to school taxes. The Diocese founded a program called CTAPCatholic Tuition Assistance Program - to help families meet their elementary tuition obligation, and help families stay in school. Under CTAP, the Foundation staff would qualify each family and award $500 scholarships based on available funding. To increase efficiency and streamline the process for families, the Foundation entered into a partnership with the BISON Children’s Scholarship Fund in 2011, committing funds restricted to Catholic elementary schools and relinquishing the administration of the assistance program to BISON. Since then, BISON financially qualifies families seeking scholarships, and distributes the awards. Unique to BISON, once a child and family qualify, all siblings are grandfathered into the BISON scholarship program, something CTAP was financially unable to do. This school year, the average BISON scholarship for elementary school is $1,561 with over 1,700 students in the program.

Below is the financial commitment the Foundation has made to BISON since its partnership has begun:

2011 $640,000

2012 $700,000

2013 $800,000

2014 $850,000

2015 $850,000

2016 $825,000

2017 $755,221

2018 $960,000*

2019 $771,000*

2020 $580,000*

2021 $823,000*

2022 $913,000*

* These numbers include Foundation support for BISON high school scholarships that began in 2018.

IN 2022-23, THE NUMBER OF STUDENTS on SCHOLARSHIP IN DIOCESAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Every dollar helps keep these students in Catholic schools.

2023

CHAMPIONS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION AWARD RECIPIENTS

Donna & Bill Collins

Donna and Bill Collins are long-time supporters of Catholic education as well as The Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo. Together they serve on the Foundation’s Board of Trustees and for 12 years, as chairs the Bishop’s Council of the Laity, a select group of community leaders that remain closest to the Bishop.

Bill, a graduate of St. Joseph Collegiate Institute, earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure University in journalism and is a highly experienced public relations counselor with decades of experience working with a wide and deep cross-section of clients with a particular emphasis on crisis communications. Bill Collins along with business partner Bob Travers started a very successful advertising and PR agency, known as Travers Collins, and for more than 20 years has served the Buffalo community. After selling his agency, Bill moved on to Canisius College where he served as Vice President of Institutional Advancement for six years. Bill is an accredited member of the Public Relations Society of America and has been honored as practitioner of the year by both PRSA and the Advertising Club of Buffalo. He has served on numerous boards including the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp., People Inc., the YMCA of Buffalo Niagara, St. Joe’s Collegiate and St. Bonaventure University. Bill was diocesan general chair of the 1996 Catholic Charities Appeal.

Donna, currently Editor- in –Chief of Buffalo Business First, graduated from St. Bonaventure University with a bachelor’s in journalism. She received the prestigious Mark Hellinger Award upon her graduation from St. Bonaventure and later, was named Bona’s Mass Communications Alumnus of the Year. Today, Donna is an active member of the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Grants committee, where she

assists with administration of grant award recommendations. She has also served on the board of Summit Educational Resources. Donna is also a member of the Knights of Malta and has been to Lourdes with the group.

Together, Donna and Bill served as chairs of this Catholic Education event in 2004 (then called the “Making a Difference Dinner”), and three of their children attended Catholic schools from kindergarten through college.  They felt blessed they could give their children the opportunity to receive an education so firmly rooted in our faith and within a framework of morality and discipline, and felt it was important that they help give the gift of a Catholic education to other families in need.

Donna and Bill’s passionate commitment and dedication to Catholic education, as well as their longstanding hard work to support Catholic education throughout Western New York, truly makes them Champions of Catholic Education.

Will, Charlie, Alex Amedeo, Elena Collins, Julia Amedeo and pup Sunny

Xavier University - May 2022 - Photo represents exactly 100 years of combined Catholic education for all in this picture: Will Collins, Donna Collins, Charlie Collins, Bill Collins, Julia Amedeo and Alex Amedeo

Congratulations &bestwishes

Donna and Bill Collins

Charles G. "Chip" Jones Champions of Catholic Education

Vicky Petricca

Sr. Lucille Socciarelli/Fr. John Sturm

Making a Difference Award

Rev. James Ciupek

Distinguished Pastor Award

Karen Rahill

Distinguished Principal Award

Russell J. Salvatore Selfless Giving Award

Savannah Brooks

Natalie Mattimore Lewis Kindness Counts Character Award

Sarah Romanowski

Tim Russert Creative Scholarship for Writing

Previous Honorees

PAST CHAMPIONS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION HONOREES

2022 Rev. Robert Wardenski

2021 The Comer Family

Maid of the Mist

2020 Buffalo Dental Group, LLP

Sister Mary McCarrick, OSF

2019 Katherine K. Juhasz

John C. Dwyer

PAST BISHOP MEDAL HONOREES OF BISHOP MALONE

2018 The Upon this Rock Chairs: Judy † & Tom Beecher, Barbara & Jerry † Castiglia, Betsy & John Sullivan

The Montante Family & the Uniland Development Co.

2017 Robert T. Scott

Buffalo Museum of Science

M&T Bank

M&T Charitable Foundation

2016 The Habib Family

Judith Nolan Powell

2015 Sr. Gail Glenn, SSJ of Catholic Academy of West Buffalo

The Catholic Colleges and Universities of WNY, including Canisius College, Christ the King Seminary, D’Youville College, Hilbert College, Niagara University, St. Bonaventure University, Trocaire College, Villa Maria College

2014 Most. Rev. Edward U. Kmiec

Robert M. Bennett

2013 The Women Religious of WNY

Past & Present

The Joy Family Foundation

PAST BISHOP MEDAL HONOREES OF BISHOP KMIEC

2012 Rev. Mark J. Wolski

Barbara & Gerard Mazurkiewicz

2011 Rosalie & Frank Ciminelli

Rev. Msgr. Paul J.E. Burkard

2010 Ann L. Swan

Rev. Msgr. Dino Lorenzetti

2009 Rev. Msgr. Francis Braun

Sr. Jeanne Eberle

Paul Koessler †

2008 Carol & Carl Montante

Rev. Jim Joyce, SJ &

Rev. Edward Durkin, SJ of NativityMiguel Middle School of Buffalo

2007 Paul D. Bauer

Daniel R. Gernatt, Sr.

Rev. Msgr. Francis Weldgen

Trocaire College

2006 James V. & Mary G. Glynn

Rev. Msgr. Rupert A. Wright

Villa Maria College

2005 Robert M. Greene

Hilbert College

2004

Karen & Richard Penfold

D’Youville College

PAST BISHOP MEDAL HONOREES OF BISHOP MANSELL

2003 John R. Oishei Foundation

Niagara University

2002 J. Walter & Kenneth Koessler Families

Canisius College

2001

The BISON Scholarship Fund

Move of Faith

St. Bonaventure University

2023 CHAMPION OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION AWARD RECIPIENT

Charles “Chip” G. Jones, Jr.

We remember and honor Chip Jones as a successful businessman with a long history of service to Western New York’s local charities. Chip was a Buffalo native who grew up in North Buffalo and graduated from Mount St. Joseph Grammar School and Canisius High School.

After attending Canisius College, Chip joined his friend Joe Petrella and brother Bill to start Wittburn Enterprises, an electrical construction business in 1976. Chip cherished his beautiful family and was a man of deep Catholic faith. He was chairman of the Catholic Charities Appeal twice, was named a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and served in the Bishop’s Council of the Laity. In 2019, he was inducted by Canisius High School into its Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame in recognition of his community service and business success. When accepting this award he recalled how grateful he was to Canisius’ focus on becoming ‘a Man for Others’ and how he strove to embody academic achievement, inner strength, and to make a difference in the world.

Chip also served on many boards: Canisius High School, NativityMiguel Middle School of Buffalo, Catholic Charities, OLV Charities, Buffalo Renaissance Foundation, Peaceprints of WNY, Goodwill Industries, the Buffalo Club, Christ the King Seminary and the Regional Traffic Alliance. When Chip wasn’t at the office or volunteering his time, he was an enthusiastic golfer and a season ticket holder for the Buffalo Bills and Sabres.

Tragically, in July 2022, Chip’s life was cut short. However, his passion for serving others and his deep commitment to the importance of a Catholic education still lives on.

The Foundation of the R.C. Diocese of Buffalo is proud to posthumously present Chip, represented this afternoon by his loving wife Mary Jo, with the 2023 Champion of Catholic Education Award.

THE 2023 TIM RUSSERT SR. LUCILLE SOCCIARELLI & FR. JOHN STURM MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD RECIPIENT

Vicky Petricca

ST. CHRISTOPHER CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Vicky Petricca began her career teaching in Catholic schools when she substitute taught long term at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament in Kenmore in 1995. She went on to accept a longterm substitute position at Saint Christopher School in 1998 and was hired as the Reading and Technology teacher at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament in Depew the same year. After taking time off for her own children, she returned to Saint Christopher School as a substitute teacher while her own children attended school there. Her love for the school and Catholic Education led to her accepting a full-time teaching position at Saint Christopher School where she has taught for the last eight years.

Vicky was nominated for this award by not one - but four - of her peers who thought she has an outstanding work ethic, and consistently goes above and beyond for every single one of her students, colleagues, administration and her parish. When her beloved school lost their principal, Vicky singlehandedly got their STREAM application process up and running, started a committee to start the grant application, researched the supply of schoolwide items, ordered all of the materials, inventoried supplies as they arrived, and wrote documentation after everything was in and stored.

After re-establishing the STREAM program, she continues to serve as the school’s STREAM coordinator, a position that was vacated by three coordinators prior to her stepping into the role. Vicky represents Saint Christopher School with students at the X-STREAM games and puts in many hours after school to maintain the STREAM program.

Vicky always remains positive and a radiating light to all. When she is not serving her students, she is a mentor for new teachers and is the “go to” person for anyone who needs assistance.

For these reasons and so many others, it is our honor to present Vicky Petricca from St. Christopher Catholic School with the 2023 Tim Russert Sr. Socciarelli - Fr. John Sturm Making a Difference Award.

Previous Honorees

TIM RUSSERT’S SR. LUCILLE SOCCIARELLI & FR. JOHN STURM MAKING A DIFFERENCE AWARD

2022 - Nancy Zoricak, St. Benedict School, Amherst

2021 - Paula Eastmer, SS. Peter & Paul, Williamsville

2020 - Elaine Nuwer, St. John the Baptist, Alden

2019 - Colleen Milette, St. Amelia School, Tonawanda

2018 - Mary McIntyre, SS. Peter & Paul, Williamsville

2017 - Polly Lougen, St. Mary, Swormville

2016 - Judith M. MacDonald, Southtowns Catholic School

2015 - Linda P. Calandrelli, St. Peter School

2014 - Mike Wojcicki, Mary Queen of Angels School

2013 - Mary Jane Liszewski, Immaculate Conception School

2012 - Patty Page, Holy Family

2011 - John & Margaret Volpe, St. Joseph School, Batavia

2010 - Denise Amato, SS. Peter & Paul, Williamsville

2009 - Lyn Rezabek, St. Ambrose Academy

2008 - Mary L. Posch, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Niagara Falls

2007 - Cheryl A. Schmelzer, St. Barnabas School

2006 - Sr. Timothy Howard, OSP, Catholic Central

2005 - Jeanne Kielbasa, Our Lady of Czestochowa

2004 - Amelia Czerwinski, St. John Vianney

2003 - Francis Hill, Queen of Martyrs

2002 - John Curtin, St. Josaphat

Tune in on Saturday at 4

pm

to WBBZ-TV for more Catholic education programming …

Presented by

795 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14203 FRCDB.org

Since its establishment in 1996, the Foundation of the RC Diocese of Buffalo (FRCDB) has existed as a non-profit organization, legally distinct from the Diocese of Buffalo. Our mission is to acquire, administer and distribute funds to benefit educational, social and spiritual service programs provided by Catholic organizations and ministries throughout Western New York.

to all of today's honorees...

Donna & Bill Collins, Chip Jones, Russell J. Salvatore, Rev. James Ciupek, Karen Rahill, Vicky Petricca, Sarah Romanowski and Savannah Brooks.

Thank you

to the Foundation of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Buffalo for working endlessly to help provide financial assistance to those who need it most.

Daniel and Gina Roblin

THOSE WHO SERVE ON THE 2023 CATHOLIC

EDUCATION LUNCHEON EVENT

COMMITTEE

EVENT CHAIRS Anne & David Gaulin

EVENT COMMITTEE

Kari Buchinger

Jerry Burgin

Pat & Bill Christ

Sr. Carol Cimino, SSJ, EdD

Dana Dee

Katie Juhasz

Dr. Bernard Kolber

Carol Kostyniak

Trish Lewis

Barbara & Jerry

Mazurkiewicz

Pia O’Connor

Siobhan Pawelczyk

Shelly Reidy

Gina Roblin

Colleen Sellick

Betsy Sullivan

Josie & Pat Tronconi

Tom Vacanti

Ellen Vossler, DDS

Michele Walter

Laura Zaepfel

PAST CATHOLIC EDUCATION GALA CHAIRS

2022 - Rev. Joseph Rogliano

2021 - Rev. Joseph Rogliano

2020 - Susan Santandreu

2019 - Kathleen & Tom Christy

2018 - Rev. Joseph Rogliano

2017 - Laura Zaepfel

2016 - Pia & Eugene O’Connor

2015 - Jill & Christopher Marks

2014 - Ruthanne & John Daly

2013 - Diane & TJ Revelas and Mary & Mark Hoffman

2012 - Jean & Tom Comer

2011 - Kellie & Steve Ulrich

2010 - Betsy & John Sullivan

2009 - Katie & Jake Schneider

2008 - Maureen & Mike Pratt

2007 - Patti & Bill Lawley and Kirsten & Mike Lawley

2006 - Mary Clare & Ronald Smith

2005 - Nancy & Paul Kolkmeyer

2004 - Donna & Bill Collins

2003 - Karen & Richard Penfold

2002 - Barbara & Jerry Mazurkiewicz

2001 - Ann & Bill Swan

THE 2023 SELFLESS GIVING AWARD Russell J. Salvatore

The inaugural Selfless Giving Award is given to an individual who has given, whether financially or in time and talent, to those in the Diocese of Buffalo in need. Russell J. Salvatore, a Western New York icon, is being recognized today for his boundless generosity.

Russell has always been one who has had a hard time saying “no” to Western New York charities and derives great satisfaction from giving back to those who are most in need. His decades of philanthropy is a result of his giving heart and great success as a businessman. Russell does more than donate funding to support agencies, institutions and charitable organizations - he takes the time to meet with constituents from the organizations and really learns first-hand of the need. Most recently, Russell generously provided every elementary and high school in the Diocese of Buffalo with a 75” SMART TV. He was thrilled to know that this incredible gift would make it easier for boys and girls to learn each day.

Through his charitable foundation, Russell has also donated to ECMC, Kaleida, Oishei Children’s Hospital, Catholic Health, Brothers of Mercy, Kevin Guest House, the Red Cross, the Buffalo Zoo, Heritage Learning Centers, Buffalo State College, the Boys and Girls Club, Roswell Park, to name a few.

The Foundation of the R.C. Diocese of Buffalo is thrilled to present Russell J. Salvatore with the 2023 Selfless Giving Award for his generosity to our Diocese and to all of Western New York.

JOIN US AT OUR OTHER EVENTS IN 2023:

FRCDB Golf Tournament held at Niagara Falls Country Club on Monday, May 22, 2023

Curé of Ars to benefit the formation of seminarians, the diaconate and lay ecclesial ministers, held at Salvatore’s Hospitality on Thursday, October 5, 2023

For more information, please visit our website at FRCDB.org or contact Laura DeMizio, Special Events Coordinator, at LDeMizio@buffalodiocese.org.

THE 2023 DISTINGUISHED PASTOR AWARD Rev. James Ciupek

NATIVITY OF OUR LORD PARISH, ORCHARD PARK

Rev. James D. Ciupek was born and raised in Buffalo with a very Catholic upbringing. Academically, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Buffalo State College and also earned a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Purdue University. Father Jim remembers feeling called to the priesthood as early as high school, but put off answering the call until much later. While at Purdue University, he found himself becoming more and more involved in his local parish. He became an Extraordinary Minister and taught religious education.

After prayerful consideration, at the age of 33, Jim returned to Buffalo and entered Christ the King Seminary to begin studies for the priesthood. He received a Master of Divinity degree in May of 1996 and was ordained a Transitional Deacon in June. Along with five other men, he was ordained to the priesthood on May 17, 1997 by Bishop Henry Mansell. Father Jim describes the experience as a time of nervousness and excitement, as well as a day of great joy.

For Father Jim, celebrating the Eucharist, as well as helping people become more aware of a sense of God working in their lives, is one of the best aspects of being a priest. Father Jim feels the priesthood is a great opportunity to do something worthwhile with your life and allows you to teach others about God, which is what he does so well in his parish and school community of Nativity of Our Lord in Orchard Park.

With great gratitude for his years of priestly service and commitment to Catholic education, the Foundation of the R.C. Diocese of Buffalo honors Fr. Jim with the 2023 Distinguished Pastor Award.

Queen of Martys Church supports

CATHOLIC EDUCATION: Students, Teachers, Parents, Principals, Pastors & Staff

REV. JAMES CIUPEK

on receiving the Distinguished Pastor Award.

All of our staff support you!

GOD BLESS YOU ALL

8

Father Lou Klein Pastor

THE 2023 DISTINGUISHED PRINCIPAL AWARD

Karen Rahill

DE SALES CATHOLIC SCHOOL

The DeSales High School Class of 1987 prophetically named Karen Rahill “Most Dedicated” in their senior high school yearbook. Twenty-seven years later, Karen would give up a lucrative public-school job to return to her alma mater, DeSales.

First, she served as the school librarian/STREAM Coordinator and then, when called on by the Board, she stepped up to lead as Principal. This move was nothing short of a ‘calling’ for Karen, as the movement she was about to start at DeSales would forever change the educational landscape at the elementary Catholic school.

In her time at DeSales Catholic School, Karen successfully implemented the STREAM program, planned and managed significant improvements to the school campus, built relationships with community partners, earned the trust and respect of faculty and students, and has been a source of strength and wisdom for all during a global pandemic.

While many things have changed since 1987, one thing has not: Karen Rahill is still perhaps the “Most Dedicated.” For the past 30 years, Karen has tirelessly served the DeSales community with no signs of stopping. She is directly shaping the future of DeSales elementary school for generations to come. Saint Francis De Sales once said, “Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing so gentle as real strength.” Karen has incredible strength, but her strength is in the gentleness of her nature, her deep love and loyalty to those she serves.

The Foundation of the R.C. Diocese of Buffalo is honored to present Karen Rahill with the Distinguished Principal Award for her unwavering commitment to Catholic education.

THOSE WHO SERVE ON THE FOUNDATION of the R.C. DIOCESE of BUFFALO BOARD of TRUSTEES

CHAIRMAN MOST REVEREND MICHAEL W. FISHER

15th Bishop of Buffalo

VICE CHAIR HOWARD (SANDY) CURLETT III

TRUSTEES

Kristin Bauer

Thomas Beecher, Jr.

Daniel Blake

C. Kevin Brayer

William Collins

James Contino

Domenic Cortese

David Gaulin

James Goede

Richard Heist

FOUNDATION STAFF

Brianna Aichinger

Kate Boswell

JoAnne Hudecki

Joseph Ieraci

Rev. Peter Karalus

Deborah Keenan

Nick Knab

Kalie Mackenna

Jeanne Magavern

Chuck Mendolera

James Millard

Clara Moran

Sr. Regina Murphy, SSMN

Gina Roblin

Connor Rosenecker

Gerald Saxe

Deacon Steven Schumer

Fr. Richard Siepka

Laurie Syta

Robert Wunsch

Laura DeMizio

Nancy Gugino

Rhonda Hess

Kristyn Million

Alisa Tiburzi

THE 2023

NATALIE MATTIMORE LEWIS KINDNESS COUNTS CHARACTER AWARD RECIPIENT

Savannah Brooks

SAINTS PETER & PAUL SCHOOL, HAMBURG

This award is presented to a seventh grade student who exhibits conscious commitment to random acts of compassion, love and benevolence.

Savannah Brooks has been nominated by her teacher, Erin Johnston at Saints Peter and Paul in Hamburg and has been selected to receive this award for her honorable character and for making her school and community a better place. She starts every day with an infectious smile and a warm greeting to everyone she encounters.

PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS

2022 Lena Hurley, St. Benedict School

2021 Olivia Cole, Northern Chautauqua

2020 Madelyn Muurisepp, Immaculate Conception, Wellsville

2019 Gabrielle Adamczyk, SS. Peter & Paul, Williamsville

2018 Jack Byrnes, Immaculate Conception, Wellsville

2018 Nial Rigas, Immaculate Conception, Wellsville

Savannah is still undecided for what her future holds, but she is thinking interior designer, baker or teacher. Her favorite subject is science and been involved in dance since she was 5 and also plays basketball for her school. In her free time, Savannah assists at her dance studio with the younger classes.

2017 Colleen Hennesey, Immaculate Conception, Wellsville

THE 2023 TIM RUSSERT SCHOLARSHIP FOR CREATIVE WRITING AWARD RECIPIENT

Sarah Romanowski

ST. GREGORY THE GREAT SCHOOL, WILLIAMSVILLE

The Tim Russert Scholarship for Writing is presented to a faculty-nominated eighth grade Catholic school student who exemplifies strong writing skills, classroom leadership, critical thinking, and who embodies the charism of Tim Russert.

Sarah Romanowski has been nominated by her teacher, Tracey Rambharose, who truly believes Sarah has a passion for writing. Sarah’s favorite subject in school is ELA as she enjoys reading and writing. When she is not reading and writing, you can find her on the volleyball court for her school and travel team. Sarah also enjoys skiing and eating smoothies and pasta.

Our sincere congratulations to Sarah Romanowski, for her Tim Russert Scholarship for Writing award.

PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS

2022 - Ryann Morris, DeSales Catholic School

2021 - Michael Stadler, Southtowns Catholic

2020 - Maria Rickert, Southern Tier Catholic

General Contracting

Construction Management Demolition

455 Commerce Dr., Suite 5 Amherst, NY 14228

Phone 716-819-8992

"Educating the mind without educatingthe heartis no education at all."

- Aristotle

Congratulations and Gratitude

Donna & Bill Collins, Chip Jones, Russell Salvatore, Rev. James Ciupek, Karen Rahill, Vicky Petricca, Sarah Romanowski & Savannah Brooks

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND CHIP JONES – YOU ARE SO DEEPLY MISSED AND FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS.

The Neil Family

When she is here, she is seen

When she speaks, she is heard

When she stands, she is respected

She’s your daughter, and she’s invited to Mount Saint Mary Academy—where her star is bright and her path is clear.

Learn more about our all-girls private, Roman Catholic high school in Kenmore, NY.

MOUNT ST. MARY ACADEMY

3756 Delaware Avenue

Kenmore, NY 14217

(716) 877.1358

msmacademy.org

Congratulations to DONNA & BILL COLLINS and CHIP JONES

2023 Champions of Catholic Education Recipients

VICKY PETRICCA, St. Christopher Catholic School

Sr. Lucille Socciarelli -Fr. John Sturm Making a Difference Award

ST. MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL

142 Laverack Avenue | Lancaster, NY 14086

SMHLancers.org

The Foundation of the RC Diocese of Buffalo wishes to congratulate the

2023 Natalie Mattimore Lewis Kindness Counts Awardee

Savannah Brooks

SAINTS PETER & PAUL SCHOOL, HAMBURG

May your kind heart bring you many rewards. We wish you great success as you continue your Catholic education!

Congratulations to the 2023

Tim Russert Creative Writing Scholarship Winner

Sarah Romanowski

ST. GREGORY THE GREAT SCHOOL, WILLIAMSVILLE

2023 Champion of Catholic Education Recipients DONNA & BILL COLLINS and CHIP JONES

R

O LL I N G !

Congratulations to Savannah and all previous ‘Kindness Counts’ award recipients! Thank you for keeping Natalie’s spirit alive!

Love, The Lewis Family

Nial2018Rigas

Madelyn Muurisepp 2020

Colleen Hennesey 2017 Jack Byrnes 2018

Olivia Cole 2021

Natalie Lewis

Gabrielle Adamczyk 2019

Savannah2023Brooks

Lena Hurley 2022

St. Joe's is proud to support the St. Joe's is proud to support the 2023 Catholic Education Luncheon 2023 Catholic Education Luncheon

On behalf of the entire St. Joe's community, we would like to thank Karen Rahill and Donna and Bill Collins '72 for their tireless support of Catholic education in Western New York

KAREN RAHILL, DE SALES CATHOLIC SCHOOL

KAREN RAHILL, DE SALES CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Parent of Will Rahill '22 & Dan Rahill '25 Parent of Will Rahill '22 & Dan Rahill '25 2023 Distinguished Principal 2023 Distinguished Principal

DONNA & BILL COLLINS '72

DONNA & BILL COLLINS '72

2023 Champions of Catholic Education 2023 Champions of Catholic Education

2023 Catholic Education Luncheon Honorees

"Be our guest and let us do the rest!"

Catholic schools win!

Thank you to our sponsors who committed to support this event after the print deadline:

PLATINUM SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSORS

Sandy Curlett Nardin Academy

Thank you to these DONORS who committed after the print deadline:

Aries Transportation

Patricia & Richard Blake

Kevin Brayer

Buffalo Renaissance Foundation

Canisius College

Cardinal O’Hara High School

Catholic Academy of West Buffalo

Catholic Community of Buffalo, North

Dana Dee

DeSales Catholic School

Zak Dewey

Bob Dobmeier

D’Youville College

Christina & George Eberl Education Collaborative

Ryan Ennis

Gernatt Asphalt Products

Philip Guerra

Jay Holler

Linda & Deacon Mark Hooper

Rev. Stephen Jekielek

Amy Johnson

Jack Kearns

Trish & Evan Lewis

Barbara & Jerry Mazurkiewicz

Ann McCarthy

Lucy & John Morgus

Mount Mercy Academy

Mt. St. Mary Academy

NativityMiguel Middle School of Buffalo

The Neil Family

Maurice Nylon

Queen of Martyrs Church

Susan Santandreu

Southtowns Catholic of St. John Paul II School

St. Benedict School

St. Bonaventure University

St. Christopher School

St. Gregory the Great Lady of our Lord Prayer Group

St. Gregory the Great School

St. Joseph Regional School, Batavia, Karen Green

St. Mark School

St. Teresa of Avila Parish

St. Thomas More Guild

Betsy & John Sullivan

Courtney Sullivan

Proud supporter of Catholic Schools through the Foundation of the RC Diocese of Buffalo of WNY.

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