Purple and Gold Award Winners

Purple & Gold Award Recipients

Purple and Gold Award Recipients for 2020

The Alumni Association selects Purple and Gold recipients from among nominated individuals who have demonstrated outstanding support in the best interests of the students, faculty, and alumni of CBA; have dedicated years of service to the Academy; and have been committed to the ideals and principles of CBA.

John Barsanti ’69

St. Mary’s parish was the home parish of the Barsanti family and John attended public school until his father decided it was time he had the benefit of a Catholic education at the hand of the Christian Brothers. John fondly recalls and appreciates the time and dedication of the Brothers and teachers at CBA, whose patience and discipline improved his educational focus. John later graduated from Niagara University where he majored in accounting, accepting a job offer from Ernst & Ernst. In 1976, John married Trish Losty and was able to take advantage of career opportunities that involved international travel and family relocation. John worked at Carrier Corporation in the finance department as the company was transitioning from an export organization to a global manufacturing company. After living in Singapore, Australia, Madison, WI, and St Louis, MO, the Barsantis returned to Syracuse in 2003. John started up a private equity firm with his Carrier mentors and a business consulting practice that put to use the skills he had hewn in his worldwide travels. When he returned to Syracuse, John was invited to join the CBA Board. As Chair of the Finance Committee during the financial crisis in 2007-2009, he led an adept and dedicated volunteer committee, making recommendations on investment strategy, and establishing business plans and analysis that are still being used today. As class agent for the class of 1969, he supported the class’ fundraising efforts through phonathons and ultimately through a meaningful and treasured Jubilee reunion and class gift. These days, Trish and John’s focus is on their three children and seven grandchildren in Buffalo and Boston.

Katherine “Kat” Dugas

Born and raised in Syracuse, with hard work, strong faith, and true grit, Kat has triumphed over a number of adversities throughout her lifetime. Thrust into a demanding role at the age of 8 due to her mother’s illness, she managed the care, meals, & housework for herself and her family. Kat has made her way from her first job on a farmstand in her early teens to landing a temporary position at MassMutual, where she has now advanced to her current role as Chief Operating Officer. It was at MassMutual that the idea of CBA for her sons came into being, when business owner Bob Waters ’66 suggested that she consider it for Tully. And so it was that Tully applied to CBA and was accepted! Kat will be the first to say that CBA would never have been an option without the scholarships and aid offered by the school. A few years later, younger son Trevor joined the ranks at Randall Road. The option and the availability of a CBA education transformed the lives of Kat, Tully, and Trevor Dugas. It launched Kat Dugas into the myriad volunteer opportunities at Christian Brothers Academy, culminating in the roles of President of Parents Club and Co-Chair of the Lasallian Auction and Dinner committee. Even though Tully ’11 and Trevor ’15 graduated years ago, Kat remains a faithful auction volunteer and lifetime promoter of the value of a CBA education. As a passionate supporter of the CBA family, Kat speaks often of the great benefits CBA has provided for her children, and her debt of gratitude for the opportunity. Kat rarely speaks of her personal hardships, rather she approaches each day with an enthusiastic smile, counting her blessings - which include her family’s association with Christian Brothers Academy.

Giving from your IRA?

Charitable contributions from your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) can help offset your tax bill — but you need to make sure the timing is right!

While there have been many changes to the tax law this past year, the Charitable IRA Rollover provision has remained permanent law. Donors continue to be able to take advantage of this opportunity to support their favorite charities; have the gift count against their Required Minimum Distribution; and have the amount excluded from their income.

Required minimum distributions from retirement accounts resume in 2021 after being waived for 2020. By acting early in the year, advisers can help clients reduce their Required Minimum Distribution tax bill with qualified charitable distributions. If you are over age 70½ (or 72 if born after June 30, 1949), we highly recommend you consider a qualified charitable distribution from your IRA this year. For more information on how you can make your gift using your IRA and help continue the CBA legacy, contact Annemarie Mosley at (315)-446-5960 X1132 or amosley@cbasyr.org.