CARDINAL T H E M AG A Z I N E O F P O P E F R A N C I S P R E PA R ATO RY S C H O O L | S P R I N G 2 0 2 1
WE RISE TRANSFORMING CHALLENGE INTO OPPORTUNITY
TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S
“ To live by faith means to put our lives in the hands of God, especially in our most difficult moments.”
POPE FRANCIS
Administration Head of School Dr. Paul Harrington
2 We Rise 6 Welcome! 15 Faith 20 Alumni News 24 Giving ON THE COVER: Alexander Casella ’23 in Ceramics 1 with Mrs. Kinsey.
7 ACADEMICS
Assistant Head of School Mrs. Cindy Geiger Office of Institutional Advancement Director of Development Daniel Fenton CHS ’09 Director of Admissions Ann Rivers Marketing and Social Media Manager Wendy Harrington Development Associate Barbara Moran HCHS ’63 Institutional Advancement Operations Coordinator Patricia Brackett
WHO WE ARE
10 VISUAL ARTS
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SERVICE & COMMUNITY
Pope Francis Preparatory School is a Catholic co-educational, collegepreparatory school which instills Gospel values and fosters academic excellence in a diverse community of learners.
popefrancisprep Pope Francis Prep popefrancisprep @PFcardinals
POPE FRANCIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL
18 ATHLETICS
99 Wendover Road Springfield, MA 01118 popefrancisprep.org
LETTER FROM HEAD OF SCHOOL
Rise & Shine
Dear Friends, This year we faced one of the greatest challenges that we have had to face in our history — determining how to safely reopen our campus during a worldwide pandemic. Last summer as we began planning for the year, I must admit that it felt a bit daunting. We had to consider every aspect of health and safety (much of which we take for granted) for all constituents of our community; we had to reinvent our daily schedule and routines; we had to integrate technology that would ensure every student had the best possible access to our teachers — all while offering our full curriculum and remaining committed to our mission to develop faith-based leaders.
In these pages, you will discover all the ways in which our students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni were a part of this successful endeavor. Together, we rise! We continue to face every challenge together, with our Catholic values there to guide us. Compassion, peace, service, justice, trust, hope, and love serve as guideposts — both in times of crisis and in times of calm. It felt incredibly joyful to welcome students back in the fall. Despite the masks and social distancing, it was wonderful to see classrooms back in action. I believe I speak for everyone at Pope when I say that I will never again take a day on campus for granted. I am grateful for all the planning and new technology that allowed teachers to include all students in their classrooms, even if they are learning from home, and for our parents and benefactors, who make the Pope Francis Prep experience not only possible, but outstanding — even during a pandemic.
In this issue of the Cardinal magazine, you will read about how we rise and shine; how we managed to reopen our campus safely even while many schools remained remote across the country; how our students embraced new restrictions and protocols in the classrooms, while competing in sports, and when practicing their faith and participating in Christian service. As I write this letter, I am looking forward to the spring, summer, and the future — a time of great promise and hope. And, although many of our school activities were reinvented or reimagined this year, the fundamental element that ensured our success from the start is the unwavering and resilient Pope Francis Prep spirit.
“ I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE SPRING, SUMMER, AND THE FUTURE — A TIME OF GREAT PROMISE AND HOPE.” DR. PAUL HARRINGTON
Kindly,
Dr. Paul Harrington Head of School
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WE RISE RETURNING TO SCHOOL IN THE FALL brought with it excitement and a note of uncertainty. After being apart for so long, since March of 2020, teachers were looking forward to getting back into the classroom and being with their students face to face. The faculty and staff realized that coming back to school in the fall for in-person learning was uncharted territory, especially since most schools remained in remote status. We faced the challenge to make this new normal work with tenacity and a renewed dedication to making learning in this unique atmosphere the best it could possibly be.
A reopening committee of faculty, staff, and administrators met weekly from June until opening day in August. This committee was tasked with researching, strategizing, and crafting a reopening plan that provided the greatest sense of normalcy for students while placing health and safety at the forefront. From surveys of school families, to dialogues with education colleagues from other schools, to dissecting policy and recommendations from CDC, MA-DPH, and MA-DESE publications, this committee worked to ensure a safe return to campus. Naturally, things looked and felt different upon return in August — hand-sanitizing stations were placed throughout classrooms and common spaces; plexiglass partitions were added to lunch tables along with reduced capacity; desks were measured to six foot distances from one another in every classroom and classroom capacities were reduced; one-way traffic patterns for passing periods between classes were established; class times were
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extended to allow for new cleaning protocols at the conclusion of each period; all students and families agreed to a COVID Code of Conduct outlining pandemic-specific policies; and a re-entry process was established in the event students, faculty, or staff members were out of school for a COVIDrelated absence. The pandemic has changed the way students are educated. What is now considered best practice may not have been just a year ago. Offering in person learning, as well as synchronous remote learning, during this challenging time has brought out the best in both teachers and students at PFPS and has allowed the continuum of the delivery of high-quality education that our school has become known for. Upon return, teachers were faced with about 80-90% of their students in the classroom, while the remaining students were remote learners from home. This created new challenges for teachers to learn how to effectively deliver the curriculum in an engaging
WE RISE
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TEACHING OUTDOORS Mr. Ilson takes advantage of the nice weather and teaches his art class outdoors.
way to both types of learners at the same time. To address these needs, teachers were provided several days of professional development that included workshops on strengthening synchronous and asynchronous formative assessment, how to nurture social and emotional needs to manage trauma, best practices for using technology in a synchronous classroom, expanded use of Google Classroom, learning the many features of Zoom and how to effectively offer extra help and office hours virtually. Along with targeted professional development, teachers were given instruction on advanced use of technology to synchronize instruction in a blended classroom. Naturally, there was a period of transition for both students and teachers, as classmates adjusted to being in a group with remote learners. Students also had to become used to new types of assessments, as in some instances, traditional assessments would not work with the blended format. Teachers took advantage of online opportunities to expand their repertoire of classroom tools to make lessons more accessible to all students and to adhere to safety restrictions. One example of
WELCOME CARDINALS! Freshmen Joseph Roselli and Rocco Pericolosi on August 27, 2020, the first day of school.
PFPS PRODUCTION TEAM > Mr. Geoffrey and his team of students work together to film our first virtual Liturgy.
this was the use of simulated science labs where Mrs. Woltschlaeger’s chemistry classes learned about gas laws. The investigation took place in a virtual lab that contained a cylinder filled with gas molecules as well as a thermometer, pressure gauge, hot plate, and weights. In different scenarios, students changed an independent variable in order to learn more about how the gas properties are related. During the lab students collected data, plotted graphs, made observations and drew conclusions. The real benefit with these types of activities rested in their ability to teach all students effectively in an engaging and safe way. Although teaching under these unique conditions has been challenging, it has
also allowed teachers to stretch beyond their comfort zones and to implement strategies and use tools that they may not have done during a normal year. While some classroom techniques and tools may not be implemented in the non-pandemic future, many of our newfound opportunities, expectations and methodologies are here to stay. Throughout this journey, a critical ingredient to our success has been consistent and transparent communication with students, their parents, and our community at large. In many challenges there is often a silver lining. As a school we have risen to the challenge and found the rewards that adversity often brings.
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WE RISE
PFPS Faculty and Staff
SENIOR PERSPECTIVE By Drew Hamel
Then, everything changed last March when the world as we knew it flipped upside down and we were forced to finish the school year remotely. Although I praised PFPS’s dedication and commitment to making remote learning as beneficial for us as possible, I could not help but feel sad for the class of 2020. Their senior year was cut short and they were forced to spend their last few months only seeing their classmates on a computer screen. After realizing that the pandemic would not be going away overnight, and seeing many public schools committing to remote learning for the fall, I was starting to feel very disappointed that our senior year at PFPS would be confined to computer screens. However, thanks to PFPS’s commitment to their students’ success and happiness, and with careful planning, PFPS was able to safely return to in-person learning for the 2020-2021 school year. Being able to attend school in-person has allowed me to organize and participate in many faith-based events at school, such as becoming a member of the Christian Leadership Team. I particularly enjoy running our underclassmen retreats, which would never be possible if we were not in-person. Looking ahead to the end of senior year, I look forward to spending every school day with my classmates and all experiencing graduation, together as a class. I could not be more thankful to Dr. Harrington, and all of the faculty and staff for making in-person learning possible for us.
Our technology gurus, Mr. Geoffrey > and Ms. Coulombe; our wonderful school nurse, Mrs. Jackson; and Mrs. Fenton, our school receptionist
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SENIOR YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL...everyone’s favorite year of their lives. I have been a proud Cardinal since joining the PFPS community in 2017. As I flew through my time at PFPS, I became more and more excited for my senior year.
Our maintenance crew superstars — Ms. Carmen, Mr. Geiger, and Mr. Stelzer
Reopening Committee members — Mr. Brodeur, Mrs. Fenton, Mrs. Geiger, Mr. Geoffrey, Dr. Harrington, Mr. Hollwedel, Mrs. Jackson, Mrs. O’Connell, Mrs. Scibelli
WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO OPEN PFPS DURING A PANDEMIC?
FOR YOU — WE ARE GRATEFUL! COVID-19 has caused an unprecedented disruption to education. At Pope Francis Prep we are incredibly proud of how diligently our teachers and staff work together to ensure that a quality learning experience continues for all of our students. Thank you to each and every one of you for all that you continue to do to help keep our doors open and our students learning!
STAY 6 FT. APART
110
22,000
gallons of disinfectant cleaner
nitrile gloves
32,800
75
sanitizing wipes
trigger spray bottles
3
180
Victory electrostatic sprayers
free standing plexiglass shields
40
200
delineator posts
feet of rope
100+
500+
custom-made signs
face masks
50
10
level 1 disposable gowns
sanitizer dispensers w/ floor stands
60+
24
gallons of hand sanitizer
conference microphones
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1
Zoom subscription
e-hallpass subscription
2 additional cleaning staff
and your support!
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N E W S TA F F
Welcome to the PFPS Family!
TRACY BAUDUCCIO Tracy’s career has included working for MassMutual for almost 20 years, after which she made a complete career change to the field of psychology and eventually became a licensed school counselor. She is currently a doctoral candidate, pursuing her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. She is PFPS’s Learning Lab teacher and works collaboratively with the guidance department to provide educational support to students. What she enjoys most about teaching at Pope is building relationships & learning from and with the students. Tracy believes in being able to empower students with skills, tools, and confidence so they can be their best selves! Tracy has found the environment at Pope to be very welcoming and the community of staff and students has made for a great experience. Tracy is blessed with three beautiful daughters, three beautiful grandchildren, and a very patient husband. She enjoys cooking, teaching fitness, and road trips that take her closer to the seashore!
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SHEILA SLAWIAK Sheila Slawiak joined our team as a technology teacher offering classes in both media arts and computer science. As a 2010 graduate from Westfield University with her MEd in Instructional Technology & Science, she brings over 16 years of teaching experience to PFPS. Sheila also received a Master of Science degree from RPI in Communications. She has significant experience working in the field of product development, technical writing, and other facets of high-tech manufacturing. Sheila’s passion is focusing on how technology can enhance the way people work in business and helping students dream about and discover what the future holds for people eager to enter these fields. Her most recent accomplishment was being a semifinalist for the state Teacher of the Year where she was recognized for her teaching excellence and how she utilized educational technologies in her classroom. Sheila loves working at Pope Francis because the teachers are innovative and open to new ideas and the students are eager to learn new technologies that enhance their knowledge. She is very happy to be able to contribute to a learning community she finds joyful and collegial. Sheila and her husband, Tom have traveled throughout the world, and when they are home, play sports such as golf, tennis, skiing, and equestrian riding. Until recently, they owned thoroughbred horses who brought them much joy! Recently, they have welcomed a new addition to their home — an adorable Havanese mix puppy named Enzo.
BRANDON NOWAKOWSKI Brandon Nowakowski’s enthusiasm for math was clearly shown from the start when he was tasked to implement PFPS’s new Pre AP Algebra 1 curriculum, in addition to teaching geometry and AP Statistics. Brandon had a double major in math and music as an undergrad at UMASS and received a master’s degree in music from the University of Hartford. Along with his expertise in math, Brandon is also a classically trained saxophonist who plays with various groups in the area, giving concerts and other performances. Brandon is enjoying teaching at Pope because of the enthusiasm of his students and the supportive atmosphere. His commitment to math instruction goes beyond the walls of PFPS as he is the owner of the Better Learning Center, LLC in West Hartford, CT which provides tutoring services to students wishing to further their math studies and to prepare for challenging classes, AP exams and other standardized tests. Brandon also enjoys training for and running marathons. Currently, he is preparing for the New England Green River Marathon coming up next August.
AC A D E M I C S
Lucas Wiatroski works on the Christmas Village
CARDINALS LEAD THE WAY Demonstrating STEAM by Working Together
MRS. SLAWIAK’S COMPUTER SCIENCE CLASSES wowed her as they unveiled their unique physical computing projects during class presentations. Her dedicated students worked diligently and used their art talent combined with their techno prowess to integrate three different technologies, Makey-Makey invention kit, Evo Robot, and Scratch 3.0, to present their masterpiece.
Students created a scaled model of Pope Francis Preparatory School and then used their technology to tour their model and to present the school’s academic attributes. Their strategy of determining roles was based upon each students’ passion, interest, and unique skill, giving each a chance to lead! Building the scale model was led by Mikayla Messier, who used her AP Art skills, combined with her math skills to build a cross section of all three floors. She also designed each interior by hand, making all the subject-specific furnishings for each classroom. She was supported by Drew Hamel, who displayed his
leadership skills by organizing the team and coordinated key pieces of information that would allow them to work in unison. He made the interior appointments of the theatre, dining commons, and gym. Joe Morando built a working counterweight balance elevator with the assistance of a fellow engineering student and Mr. Salloum. Learning remotely were two students, Michael Langone and Brendan Rivest, who wrote the Scratch 3.0 code, demonstrating text-to-speech capabilities to present each classroom and common area of the model. Emma Corridan performed as the team’s integrator, who bridged the remote students’ programs to the model
by problem-solving any technology-related situation in order to make the model work. Inspired by the Christmas season, Mrs. Slawiak’s computer science students created a scaled model of a Christmas Village and then integrated the same three technologies to present Christmas songs and poems. Lucas Garcia, learning remotely, was the project manager who created a project plan, tested and built prototypes, and worked collaboratively with other teammates to solve problems so all three technologies worked to show a unified project. Building the scale model was led by Ethan Lichwan who coordinated the team’s geometry skills to figure out how to design the models so his three teammates could build a balanced model. Ethan was supported by Jason Reiser who took on the challenge of programming the MakeyMakey to light the trees. The engineering artists who worked remotely were Isabella Cardinale who designed and built all the homes, and James Le and Owen Kenyon, who designed and built the trees. Colin O'Brien wrote the program for the poems to be presented in Scratch 3.0. He also designed a unique digital background of carolers within Scratch. Lucas Wiatrowski wrote the music for the holiday songs using the OzoBlockly program for the Evo robot. He had to program each song using the highest level of programming!
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AC A D E M I C S
The AQUINAS SCHOLARSHIP was awarded to the top four eighth-grade students who scored the highest national percentile composite scores on the admissions placement exam this past December. The $1,000 merit scholarship is renewable each year provided the student remains on the PFPS High Honor Roll at each semester marking period and adheres to the school’s Academic Integrity Policy at all times. Congratulations to the following students for being the first students to receive the Aquinas Merit Scholarship: Hannah Fanelli, from St. Aloysius Catholic School, Lily Frost, from St. Bernard School, Victoria Parent, from St. Mary’s Academy, and Dillon Shea, from Wilbraham Middle School.
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Biology students > in Mrs. Perez’s class created analogies for the different parts of a cell. Pictured is Siobhan Walsh and her project THE OFFICE AS A CELL. The SELF-PROPELLED CAR project teaches students how to convert potential energy to kinetic energy. Students used basic items to build their cars such as plastic bottles, empty paper towel rolls, mouse traps, CDs, and other household items.
COLORFUL PAPEL PICADO Students in Señora Walsh's class made papel picado. Papel picado is often used on altars (ofrendas) during Día de los Muertos.
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Crime scene investigation for students in Mr. Zimowski’s FORENSICS class.
Engineering students in Mr. Salloum’s class put their EGG DROP PROJECT designs to the test. Some eggs survived the long drop from the third floor, but many did not!
January 21-24, Dr. McGlathery > and 19 student delegates from the MODEL UNITED NATIONS CLUB participated in the Yale Model United Nations Conference. Senior Olivia Schonagel won the Outstanding Delegate Award on her Human Rights Council committee. Junior Malcolm Mahoney won an Honorable Mention Award as one of the top five delegates on his United Nations Environmental Programme committee.
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3D HALLOWEEN Students in Mr. Salloum's Principles of Design class created a Halloween figure of their choice on Tinkercad and then printed them on our 3D printers.
Juniors Megan Smith and Elizabeth Hanlon each earned spots in the WESTERN DISTRICT MUSIC FESTIVAL CHORUS, and received All-State recommendations as well! They will represent Pope Francis Prep by participating in an online festival later this year. Following this, they will submit their recordings of songs learned to be compiled into a virtual choir performance. We are proud of their hard work and dedication to their music.
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VISUAL ARTS
Elita Vale works on a landscape painting.
CARDINAL EXPRESSIONS ADJACENT TO THE LEARNING COMMONS, in the northeast corner of our 3rd floor is where you find Mrs. Kinsey’s and Mr. Ilson’s classrooms. Their curriculum unleashes creativity in our students, provides them with a keen grasp of art history, and a lifelong appreciation for creative expression...this is where the visual arts come alive at Pope Francis Prep!
Mr. Ilson and Mrs. Kinsey, PFPS art teachers.
FOUNDATIONS > OF ART II Contrast Project
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Jack Roy and Robert Gourde work on a MURAL for Martin Luther King, Jr.
> FOUNDATIONS OF ART I student Saniyah Calhoun
“ WABI SABI! EMBRACING THE ART OF IMPERFECTION IS A MUST IN THE ART ROOM. TAKING RISKS WITH YOUR WORK AND THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX WILL ACTIVATE YOUR CREATIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE.” MRS. KINSEY
Mikayla Messier
Ben Zaranek working on his Independent CERAMIC STUDY
Robert Gourde
CERAMICS 1 coil pots
Carolyn La Croix
Eric Tran
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SERVICE AND COMMUNITY
AN UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY COMMUNITY, VOLUNTEERING, AND SERVICE are more important during a crisis than ever before. At Pope Francis Prep, social distancing does not mean social isolation. This year, thinking outside the box has been key to finding ways for our students to continue to be part of the impactful Cardinal community. We can all be proud of the creative ways our community continues to make a difference.
VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
During the first few weeks of November, we witnessed our school community embrace, celebrate, and put into action our pillars of service, faith, and community. Our second annual Day of Service was spent flagging the gravesites of veterans at St. Michael’s Cemetery. With the sun shining on a beautiful morning, this service opportunity brought our entire community of students, teachers, and staff together to make a difference for others. Consistent with our mission to embody service to the community, our students respectfully placed thousands of American flags throughout the cemetery and cleaned gravesites in need of a
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little extra attention. This demonstration of love and care for one another, in particular those who served our country, was a rewarding experience for each of us. On Wednesday, November 11, all students spent part of the morning in school writing notes on postcards to veterans and participating in prayer services. The postcards have been shared with veterans at the Holyoke Soldiers' Home, many of whom had been in isolation because of the pandemic. It is our hope that these notes show our veterans how much they are appreciated and that they bring a smile to their face.
SHERIFF COCCHI visited the students in Mrs. Perreault’s Community and Civic Engagement class to discuss the importance of the positive outreach programs that the Sheriff's Department is involved in. Thank you Sheriff Cocchi!
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A BIG thank you to everyone who donated food and money to our THANKSGIVING FOOD DRIVE! All the money collected was used to purchase turkeys to complete the Thanksgiving meals. In all, 22 Thanksgiving meals were delivered to Sr. Eileen Sullivan and the Outreach Program at St. Michael’s Cathedral. Spring is in the air! The PFPS GARDENING CLUB is eager to get their hands dirty by starting seeds for the vegetable and flower garden here at school. DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS INSPIRED > MASKS! Commemorating the day of the dead, students in the Spanish Club decorated masks and listened to Spanish music.
Led by our Boys Hockey team, the Pope Francis Prep community came together to raise funds for AJ QUETTA. AJ is a hockey player for Bishop Feehan who suffered a serious injury while playing our team on Tuesday, January 26th. We thank everyone for their continued support and prayers for AJ, his family, and the Bishop Feehan community.
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SERVICE AND COMMUNITY
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CZEŚĆ from Mrs. Perreault’s Holocaust and Human Rights class! The class created a video about our school community that they shared with a similar class from Krakow, Poland. The two classes had three virtual meetings and videos and photos about both schools were shared at their farewell virtual party.
CANDY CANE SLEDS. Our student government officers sprang into action to help a fellow Cardinal with health issues. $1,135 was raised and will be donated to this Cardinal family. Thank you to our student government and to all who donated and purchased. We are blessed to have such a strong and caring Cardinal community!
Thank you to all who donated to the FRESHMAN CLASS SPONSORED CLOTHING DRIVE. We sorted and organized many, many bags of clothing which will be delivered to the Springfield Rescue Mission, the Dress for Success organization, and The American Red Cross.
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Dr. Harrington and seniors Marissa Laprade and Andrew Mason visited the MARTIN LUTHER KING COMMUNITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH to present a check for $1,500 from our dress down fundraiser in January. We wish them the best of luck as they begin the process to rebuild and we pray that they will soon be able to come together for prayer in their church.
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Our SOS (Special Olympics Support) Club has hosted multiple Trivia Nights with the Special Olympics community and held a fundraiser at school where they helped raise awareness about inclusion and the importance of celebrating all differences and abilities.
FA I T H
“ START BY DOING WHAT IS NECESSARY, THEN WHAT IS POSSIBLE, AND SUDDENLY YOU ARE DOING THE IMPOSSIBLE.” ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI
TOGETHER IN FAITH ON OCTOBER 1, WE CELEBRATED OUR FIRST ALL-SCHOOL LITURGY. Although our health and safety protocols prevented us from gathering together for Mass in the theatre, we were blessed by the help and talents of Fr. Mark, Mr. Anziano, the Christian Leadership Team and Mr. Geoffrey. Looking incredibly sharp in liturgy attire, students "attended" Mass from their classrooms through a live-streamed broadcast. Remote learners also had the benefit of attending Mass in the same manner. We found a way to come together for Mass, however a key component was missing — Holy Communion. With the help of Fr. Stan and Fr. David, fifteen members of our Christian Leadership team were trained and commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist. The commitment by these faith-filled students benefited the entire school community as we came together in December for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception Mass. With our newly commissioned student leaders, we were able to distribute Holy Communion to each classroom.
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FA I T H
Theology II students researched THE TITLES OF MARY, created art based on a title, and presented their projects in class.
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THE FEAST DAY OF > ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI, considered the patron saint of ecology, is October 4. In honor of his love for animals, our end of day prayer included a blessing of the animals. The blessing was live-streamed to classrooms and included a video slideshow of students with their pets.
Mr. Dewey's > sophomores ANALYZED BIBLICAL TEXTS using a new app called Kami to annotate and compare similar texts offered by the four Gospel writers. They also used the StoryboardThat app to recreate bible scenes in comic book form.
Señora Thomas' Honors Spanish 4 class joined Fr. Mark and Mr. Geoffrey for the ALL SOULS’ DAY Liturgy. The Mass was shared with our school community on November 2 in celebration of Día de Los Muertos.
PREPARING FOR > HOLY WEEK. About 40 students from PFPS and a handful from St Cecilia's in Wilbraham put together a video presentation of the Stations of the Cross and Rosary for families and friends to pray and enjoy on Good Friday.
Before leaving for the holiday break, students > participated in a THANKSGIVING PRAYER SERVICE that was live-streamed to classrooms along with those learning remotely from home. We are grateful to our chaplain, Fr. Mark, for presiding over the service.
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WELCOME BISHOP BYRNE! BISHOP WILLIAM D. BYRNE was named the tenth bishop of the Diocese of Springfield by Pope Francis on October 14, 2020.
Bishop Byrne is a native of Washington D.C. Growing up, he attended elementary school at Mater Dei in Bethesda, high school at Georgetown Preparatory School, and undergraduate studies at the College of the Holy Cross. A seminarian in the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., Bishop Byrne studied at the Pontifical North American College in Rome and the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas and was ordained a priest in 1994. Then, Father Byrne, served as the parochial vicar of the Church of the Little Flower in Bethesda, Maryland and at the Shrine of Saint Jude in Rockville, Maryland. He has served as the chaplain for the University of Maryland’s Catholic Student Center in College Park, Maryland. He was named pastor of St. Peter’s Parish in Washington, D.C. in 2007 where he served until 2015. He was most recently the pastor of Our Lady of Mercy parish in Potomac, Maryland.
OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY has had the pleasure of welcoming Bishop Byrne (and of course, Zelie) to campus on multiple occasions since his ordination in December.
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CARDINAL NATION WE ARE PROUD to say that sports at Pope Francis Prep are back! Things may look very different due to the many restrictions put into place to keep our students safe. However, through it all, our students, coaches, parents and staff, have done anything in their power to keep our students doing what they love. Go Cardinals!
GIRLS HOCKEY finished 4-6-1 in their inaugural season and competed with some of the best teams in Massachusetts. The team is composed of players from seven different schools (Amherst Regional, Frontier Regional, Hopkins Academy, Northampton, Pittsfield, Pope Francis and Taconic). The coaching staff, led by Chris Connors, did a terrific job of bringing the team together with their “Family” team motto. The team was playing its best hockey at the end of the season and we cannot wait to see the young team back in action next year!
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AT H L E T I C S
FALL SPORTS The GOLF team finished 5-0. Six golfers (Jaelyn DeBoise, Matt Hanscom, Ryan Leonard, Tom Powers, Jack Wassung and Ben Zaranek) made the All-League Team. GIRLS SOCCER finished 3-0, and six girls (Cassie Kosnicki, Giana Maggi, Isabella Meadows, Sophia Roselli, Makenna Simis, and Lily Turmel) made the All-League Team. BOYS SOCCER finished 1-1, with a close loss to Division 1 Amherst. Seven boys made the AllLeague Team (Nick Bertelli, Andrew Mason, TJ Murphy, Luc Remillard, Stephen Rougeot, Jack Turmel, and Bennett Walsh). GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY finished 3-0, and Meghan Sullivan and Julia Calderon made the All-League Team. BOYS CROSS COUNTRY finished 3-0. Jack Day, Tom Ford, Ethan Lichwan, Colin O'Brien, Patrick O'Malley and Wesley Smith made the All-League Team.
WINTER SPORTS BOYS HOCKEY finished 9-0 and were led by forward Ryan Leonard and goalie Ben Zaranek, both of whom were named to the Boston Herald All-Scholastic team. Despite the lack of any official MIAA tournament, the team still competed against the best programs in the state and enjoyed another terrific season. BOYS BASKETBALL had their best season in five years, finishing with a 9-1 record. GIRLS BASKETBALL was forced to move to a much tougher league this year as a result of COVID and the team finished 0-10. The SKI TEAM was able to participate in five regular season races at Berkshire East and also enjoyed a very successful year.
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ALMA MATTERS SHARE YOUR STORIES We’d love to hear from you! Send your news, notes and photos to alumni@popefrancisprep.org
Following his high school graduation, Michael McGrath HCHS ’79 attended college at USC in Los Angeles, and competed on the track team. Following his college graduation he moved to Sweden to attend graduate school, and got married. Currently he lives with his wife in Sweden. Christopher Hawley CHS ’80 says that
Ben Aleks CHS ’64
a former wrestler and coach at Cathedral has been elected as a member of the 2022 Wrestling Hall of Fame. Ben was the coach at the time of Cathedral’s first state championship. Francis Pijar CHS ’65 has been a
volunteer water quality monitor with CUSH (Clean Up Sound and Harbors) on the Mystic River in Stonington, CT since 2012. COVID-19 dramatically changed the sampling process in 2020 with the addition of masks, gloves, and social distancing. Fortunately the boat is long enough for three people to maintain social distance. The data collected is incorporated into the Long Island Sound Unified Water Study.
his years at Cathedral were the best days of his life. He looks forward to reconnecting with his former teachers, especially Steven Thomasy and David Laux. Patrick CHS ’91 and Michelle CHS ’92 (Murphy) Moriarty will be celebrating
25 years of marriage this July. Patrick and Michelle currently live in Deerfield, MA with their two children, Conor and Morgan. Patrick is the head baseball coach and college advisor at Deerfield Academy. Michelle works as a public school teacher at Agawam Jr. High. Michael CHS ’92 and Kathryn CHS ’93 (Lacey) Kiley reconnected 20 years after
high school thanks to Christine (Lacey) Jacques CHS ’92. Mike and Kate are now married and live in Frisco, TX. They both believe that God’s plan was built on humor, a belief in the fact that if you hold out long enough you can find your true love. Greg Matthews CHS ’00 has received a
Maurice O’Connor CHS ’70 will be
field medal.
retiring from his position as Teachers’ Aide at Southwick High School.
Kristi (Guzzo) Bellara CHS ’02 and
Karen (Garvey) Beck CHS ’75
would like to wish the best of luck to the Pope Francis Prep Cardinals. She is grateful for the fine education she received at Cathedral.
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Francis Pijar
her husband Amar Bellara are happy to announce the birth of their son Milan who was born in January 2020. Matthew CHS ’03 and Sarah CHS ’03 (Gumlaw) Lawlor recently settled
Michael McGrath
Karen (Garvey) Beck
in coastal North Carolina with their English Bulldog Wilson. Sarah is the Senior Director of Advancement Services at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington. Matt is an Aviation Historian working for the Hall Bulldog Project, a team that is working to recreate a piece of air racing history, with ties to Western Massachusetts. The two have been together for 19 years, and celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary this past September. Outside of their jobs, Matt is an award winning landscape artist and Sarah enjoys volunteering at The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, CT. Ainsley Smith CHS ’04 recently accepted the position of Regional Marine Mammal Stranding Coordinator at the National Marine Fisheries Service in Gloucester, MA. She credits Mr. Brodeur
ALUMNI NEWS
Patrick and Michelle (Murphy) Moriarty
William and Laura (Kuzdeba) Dziura
Kristi (Guzzo), Amar, and Milan Bellara
for supporting her love of science and marine animals. Ainsley lives in Salem, MA with her husband, Zachary. Garrett HCHS ’06 and Ashley HCHS ’07 (Tucker) Vanasse will be celebrating
one year of marriage this September. They currently live in West Springfield, MA. William HCHS ’07 and Laura HCHS ’07 (Kuzdeba) Dziura met during their
junior year at Holyoke Catholic. After finishing their degrees they married in 2013. They live in South Deerfield with their two children. William currently works at Elms College as the Director of Annual Giving. After staying home with her children for five years, Laura has restarted her career as a real estate agent at Delap Real Estate.
Garrett and Ashley (Tucker) Vanasse
Alex and Evy (Furgal) Kudla
Matthew and Sarah (Gumlaw) Lawlor
Alex CHS ’09 and Ewelina (Evy) CHS ’09 (Furgal) Kudla are happy to
announce that they have been together for 15 years and married for three. Last year they celebrated the birth of their first son.
Caroline Heafey
Caroline B. Heafey CHS ’10 published
an introduction in the book “Dark Enchantment” written by Dorothy Macardle. Michaela Calabrese HCHS ’15 is currently
living in New York City working as a Content Marketing Manager for one of the largest refrigeration companies in the US. Her first film debut as a writer and director is making its first appearances at various film festivals. Michaela received her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Marymount Manhattan College and her Master’s degree from The School for Visual Arts in Manhattan.
NEIL TANDY
Michael and Kathryn (Lacey) Kiley
Michaela Calabrese
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ALUMNI NEWS
Nora Garrity
ALUMNI HEROES! ACROSS AMERICA, Cathedral High School and Holyoke Catholic High School alumni are working on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to keep their communities healthy and safe. We are very proud of the incredible work they are doing and we thank them for their service.
Monica (Moriarty) Aldrich CHS ’00
currently works as an Amherst, MA firefighter and is a paramedic and emergency room nurse.
Currently Peter is working as a Director of a Retirement Investment Firm. Erin and Peter love running together, and spoiling their labradoodle Lucy. Nora Garrity CHS ’12 has been working
as a Physician Assistant on the front lines during the pandemic. She has worked multiple shifts at COVID testing sites. Nora is a full time Physician Assistant at Mount Auburn Hospital in the internal medicine department.
Ryan Barnett CHS ’10 is a paramedic
and works for American Medical Response, in Springfield, MA. He has helped countless COVID patients during the past year. Ellen Binsfeld CHS ’94 currently works
as a Patient Access Representative. Erin (Della Giustina) Ferraro CHS ’03 received her Bachelors of Nursing
from Elms College in 2007, and went on to graduate from the University of Saint Joseph in 2014. Currently Erin works as a Nurse Practitioner locally on the front lines of COVID. Her husband, Peter Ferraro CHS ’03 graduated from Springfield College in 2007, and went on to Western New England College to receive his Masters of Business degree.
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Ryan Barnett
Michelle Grasso CHS ’03 received her Associates in Nursing from Springfield Technical Community College, Bachelor’s in Nursing from Anna Maria College, and Masters of Business Administration with a concentration in Healthcare Administration from Anna Maria College. Currently she is finishing up her Master’s degree in Nursing Education. In addition, Michelle currently works for the state of Massachusetts as a registered nurse and is an adjunct nursing instructor in Connecticut. Michelle says being a nurse in this unprecedented time, only strengthens her passion to help others and instill the art and compassion of nursing in others. Ann (Tetreault) Gay HCHS ’83 and her husband Shawn recently celebrated 38
Ellen Binsfeld
years of marriage. Together they have three children, and three grandchildren. They currently live in Arkansas. Ann works in the healthcare field and her husband owns a home maintenance company.
Kevin Jandreau
Kevin Jandreau CHS ’72 is a retired Regional Customer Service Manager. He now works full time as a Medical Specimens Courier for the Veteran’s Administration and the Trinity Health Care System. In addition he is also an Adult Volunteer and Mentor in the Young Marines as an International Drug Demand Reduction Program, which is sponsored by the Marine Corps League and the U.S. Marine Corps. He has been in this position for 23 years.
Gregory McCarthy, Mary (Garvey) McCarthy, Liam McCarthy
Ervin & Helvya (Arroyo) Santiago
Kathleen (Ryan) Krisak
Kathleen (Ryan) Krisak CHS ’79 is
currently celebrating 37 years at Holyoke Medical Center working as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. Kathleen is a graduate of Worcester State University. She is currently the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging- Technologist Scientific Program Chair. As the Program Chair she coordinates the Continuing Education for Nuclear Medicine Technologists for their annual meetings.
Lillian Pham
Daniel Tuohey
Ann (Tetreault) Gay
Sarah (Barnett) Sarcona
Gregory McCarthy CHS ’85 was recently
promoted to the rank of Lieutenant with the Groton Police Department, CT. Greg has been with the Groton Police Department since 2007. Prior to joining the Groton Police Department, Greg served 20 years on active duty with the United States Coast Guard. He retired honorably as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in 2007. Greg and his family, Mary (Garvey) McCarthy CHS ’87, daughter Delia and son Liam, reside in Niantic, CT. Lillian Pham CHS ’11 has known since
high school that her dream was to become a dentist one day. Following high school she attended Simmons College and graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry. Following her time at Simmons she attended and recently
graduated from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine with her Doctorate degree in 2019. She encourages all students to follow their dreams and know that hard work will pay off.
year at Holyoke Catholic. They have a child named Caydin together. Currently Ervin works as a 911 dispatcher for the Massachusetts State Police and Helvya works in Human Resources for a Mental Health Clinic in Holyoke, MA.
Elizabeth (Christian) Ryan CHS ’98
currently works as an Audiologist at a private practice in CT. She is busy nowadays chasing after her one year old daughter Faith Carolyn Ryan. She loves boating with her husband in her spare time.
Sarah (Barnett) Sarcona CHS ’07
Ervin HCHS ’04 and Helvya HCHS ’04 (Arroyo) Santiago will be celebrating
Daniel Tuohey CHS ’01 currently works
12 years of marriage this year. They have been dating since their freshman
is a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. During spring of 2020 she was a fellow and worked in the COVID ICU at Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY.
as a Physician Assistant at an urgent care in Bristol, CT. He believes we will get through these tough times together.
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Letter from the Director of Development Dear Alumni, Family, and Friends, It is an honor and a privilege to serve the Pope Francis Prep community daily. I get to be part of an amazing team of people who continue to pass on the traditions and values set forth by our legacy schools. As an alumnus, I am able to witness firsthand the exceptional impact this school year has had on our young women and men.
This year, we have seen major growth in annual giving in support of the Cardinal Fund. Our community stepped up in March for our first ever Day of Giving, shattering our goal of 250 gifts and $25,000 in 24-hours. In all we raised over $55,000 from more than 380 donors. This campaign reconnected us with friends and alumni from 28 states and instantly created a culture of generosity. I would like to thank parents, alumni, faculty, staff, coaches, grandparents, friends, and board members for your unprecedented generosity and support for our school. The future remains bright at Pope Francis Prep and your support has a lasting impact on the lives of our students and lays the foundation for future Cardinals. As we enter the fourth and final quarter of the fiscal year, I ask those who have not had the opportunity, to consider making a gift to the Cardinal Fund before June 30, 2021. Thank you for supporting our mission and the young women and men of Pope Francis Prep today, tomorrow, and in the future. With gratitude,
Daniel Fenton CHS ’09 Director of Development
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GIVING
LEADERSHIP SOCIETY Please consider becoming a member of our Leadership Society at one these giving levels:
CARDINAL CIRCLE: $10,000 + RED & GRAY SOCIETY: $5,000 FOUNDERS SOCIETY: $2,016* MEMBER: $1,000 Our leadership donors have the honorable distinction of ensuring that our students experience the fullest range of opportunity a Catholic education provides. Thank you for your consideration. * Honoring the year Pope Francis was established.
WAYS TO GIVE ONLINE
LEADERSHIP SOCIETY ON A CHILLY DECEMBER MORNING, from the comfort of offices and living rooms, Dr. Harrington, Mrs. Geiger, and Mr. Fenton joined a small group of benefactors at our annual Leadership Society coffee. State of the School remarks by Dr. Harrington highlighted the successful efforts of the entire school community to remain open, offering safe in-person learning this year. Dr. Harrington shared with the donors that, “our faculty and staff returned to school in August committed to implementing our carefully crafted reopening plan. With health and safety protocols in place, our ability to deliver in-person instruction with a much needed sense of normalcy, was incredibly well received and appreciated by students and parents.” Members of the Leadership Society demonstrate a personal investment in the future of Pope Francis Preparatory School by making an annual fund gift of $1,000 or more. Through the generosity of these 92 individuals, Pope Francis Prep can continue to enrich students’ lives through a rigorous college-prep academic program, formation in the Catholic faith, and engagement in our local communities.
www.popefrancisprep.org/support
MAIL Please make checks payable to: Pope Francis Preparatory School Office of Development 99 Wendover Road Springfield, MA 01118
PHONE You may make a gift by calling the Office of Development at 833.999.7673 ext. 1273.
BECOME A MEMBER If you would like to learn more about becoming a Leadership Society Member, please contact: Daniel Fenton CHS ‘09 Director of Development dfenton@popefrancisprep.org 833.999.7673, ext. 1129
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GIVING
Ernest J. Gelinas Jr. ’57
THE ERNEST J. GELINAS JR. ’57 SCHOLARSHIP was established in March 2021 by Judith A. Gelinas ’57 in memory of her husband, Ernest J. Gelinas Jr. with an initial gift of $10,000. The intent of the fund is to provide a scholarship for two students each academic year who demonstrate financial need.
Judy and Ernie met in the fourth grade at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart grammar school and graduated together from Cathedral High School in 1957. Upon graduation, Ernie enrolled at Western New England College to pursue his degree. On June 4, 1960, Judy and Ernie were married at St. Cecilia’s Church in Wilbraham, MA. While raising a family, attending classes, and working full time, Ernie managed to graduate in 1963 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. After several years in business, Ernie pursued a career in education. He earned his second degree from Westfield State with a degree in Education. His first job as an educator was with the Connecticut State Prison system, where he taught Basic Adult Education and GED Prep. During his time with the state of Connecticut, he organized the teacher’s union for the Connecticut State Employees Association and became their first President. After working for 12 years in the Connecticut State prison system, Ernie transferred to the Connecticut State Vocational and Technical school system. He became an administrator at Grasso Technical and Wright Technical Schools. He completed his career as the Director of Ellis Technical school, retiring in 1997.
26 POPE FRANCIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Judy and Ernie Gelinas — 50th Wedding Anniversary
Judy and Ernie have five children and raised them in the Catholic church, specifically St. Michael's Parish in East Longmeadow, MA. Ernie was a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus and was part of the first group of Eucharistic Ministers for the Diocese of Springfield. The establishment of the Ernest J. Gelinas Jr. ’57 Scholarship was a special way for Judy to honor the memory of
her husband. Ernie would be extremely happy to know that a scholarship in his name will provide an opportunity for students to attend and pursue their education at Pope Francis Prep. More importantly, he continues to be able to help instill Catholic values through education. Judy believes Ernie would tell the Pope Francis Prep students “To work hard, pursue your dreams, and place your trust in God.”
John F. Johnson ’57
THE JOHN F. JOHNSON ’57 SCHOLARSHIP was established in January 2021 by Marguerite (Peg) C. Johnson ’57 in memory of her husband John F. Johnson with an initial gift of $5,000. The intent of this fund is to provide tuition assistance for five students each academic year who demonstrate financial need. Additionally, The John F. Johnson ’57 Endowment for Tuition Assistance was established with an initial gift of $10,000. This restricted endowment fund will also provide tuition assistance for students who demonstrate financial need.
John F. Johnson graduated from Our Lady of the Holy Rosary High School, which later became Holyoke Catholic High School, in 1957. During his time as a student-athlete, John was a member of the football and baseball teams. John played varsity football for four years as the middle linebacker and on the offensive line. He earned All-Western Mass honorable mention as a linebacker. After graduation, John played five years of semi-pro football for the Holyoke Merchants/Knights, highlighted by winning the Massachusetts State Championship. After his semi-professional football career, John joined the Army National Guard in 1961 and was honorably discharged in 1967. After his time in the military, John followed in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps and became a master stone mason and bricklayer. John began his career as a stone mason for O’Connell and Sons before starting his own business, Johnson and Sons Mason Contractors. During this time,
John at the HCHS Alumni Hall of Fame ceremony in 2010.
John had the opportunity to build the business while working alongside his two sons. John completed his professional career as the construction manager for O’Connell Oil/Convenience Plus. John’s workmanship can be recognized throughout areas of South Hadley, MA, University of Massachusetts, Mercy Hospital, and Baystate Medical Center. In 2010, John was inducted into the Holyoke Catholic Sports Hall of Fame for Baseball and Football. John and his wife Peg were blessed by 58 years of marriage. The establishment of the John F. Johnson
’57 Scholarship is a special way for Peg to honor the memory of her husband. Their belief in the importance of Catholic education, no matter the name, influenced Peg’s decision to give back. John, affectionately known as Johnny, was a kind, loving, and giving friend. With his infectious smile, great hugs, and willingness to help anyone in need, Johnny would be happy to know that a scholarship in his name will provide an opportunity for students to attend and pursue their education at Pope Francis Prep.
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GIVING
The O’Connor Family
THE O’CONNOR FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP FUND was established in December 2020 in memory of Thomas ’48 and Mary (Sullivan) ’48 O’Connor with an initial gift of $100,000.
The gift was made by the O’Connor Family, including Kevin ’72 and Ann O’Connor, Kathleen (O’Connor) ’74 and Timothy Duquette ’74, Ann (O’Connor) ’76 and John Taffe, Karen (O’Connor) ’81 and Joseph Phillips ’81. The intent of the fund is to provide scholarships for 15 students each academic year who demonstrate financial need. Tom and Mary graduated from Cathedral High School in 1948. Tom worked for the Springfield Fire Department and attained the rank of Captain. Prior to, and after raising their four children, Mary was an employee of the Division Office of A&P Supermarkets. Tom and Mary were married for 57 years and their family now includes 11 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. The establishment of The O’Connor Family Scholarship Fund was a special
The O’Connor Family
way for the children of Tom and Mary to honor the memory of their parents. The O’Connor Family truly appreciates the affordable education they received from Cathedral High School through the generosity of parishioners in the Diocese of Springfield and the efforts of both religious
and lay faculty. It is the family’s hope that students of today will be granted the same opportunity through this scholarship. The O’Connor family would like it to be known that all donations to The O’Connor Family Scholarship Fund in calendar year 2021 will be matched 100% by the O’Connor Family.
In Memoriam For the gift of this life, we thank you God. The lives of alumni from our legacy schools and Pope Francis Preparatory School are honored by our school community today and always. We extend our deepest sympathy to the families and loved ones of those who have passed away. A listing of alumni who passed between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020 can be found on our website under the alumni tab. The accuracy of this list is based on a physical or electronic obituary. Please accept our sincerest apologies if an error or omission has been made. Please notify Barbara Moran, HCHS ’63, Development Associate of any necessary addition or correction at bmoran@popefrancisprep.org or 833.999.7673 ext. 1273.
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If you would like to make a gift to the Cardinal Fund in memory of one of these individuals, please contact Daniel Fenton, Director of Development at dfenton@ popefrancisprep.org or at 833.999.7673 ext. 1129. A card acknowledging your thoughtfulness will be sent to the family.
THE CARDINAL FUND
Give today. Transform tomorrow.
During these unprecedented times, one thing has remained constant: the unwavering commitment of the Pope Francis Prep community to be there for others. With a gift to the CARDINAL FUND, you provide the ability for our school to adapt quickly to the changing needs of our students and faculty. Your support today ensures that we are able to better support our families with financial aid, advanced technologies, and enhanced curricular and co-curricular programs. Through your generous support, the Cardinals of today and tomorrow will be afforded the opportunity to thrive.
Make your gift of any size at popefrancisprep.org/support
Together. We Rise. CARDINAL | SPRING 2021
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Nonprofit Org US Postage PAID Springfield, MA Permit No 2382
99 Wendover Road Springfield, MA 01118
LET’S TRY AGAIN! > CARDINAL 5K CHALLENGE May 15 & 16, 2021 > CARDINAL CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT June 19, 2021 > GRANDPARENTS DAY September 13, 2021 > SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH CELEBRATION September 19, 2021 > GOLDEN ALUMNI CELEBRATION October 24, 2021