CELTIC NEWSLETTER FALL 2023
NOVEMBER 2023 | ANNUAL REPORT
Greetings from the Hill from Head of School, Mr. Patrick Patterson SCHOOL LEADERSHIP Patrick Patterson Principal & Head of School Nicole Lieber Dean of Students & Associate Head of School Gemma Booth Dean of Faculty & Assistant Head of School Meredith Galazka Dean of Enrollment Management & College and Career Counseling Joanna Coleman Dean of Advancement
As we begin our 134th year on “The Hill“ we have much to be thankful for. The start
Stephanie Oliver Director of Marketing & Media Relations
of this academic year has been a good one. We've welcomed more than 90 new
Jon Templeton Director of Finance
Celtics. The faith life of our students and families has never been stronger and we
Stephen McGloughlin Dean of Information Technology & Library Science
students and families to our campus and celebrated the return of more than 300 continue to welcome new faculty and staff to our ranks with each passing year. We are a blessed community, supported by our local parishes, alumni and friends. Seniors are learning of their college acceptances and making plans for the fall of
Shawn Good Director of Athletics
2024. We've celebrated a wonderful homecoming weekend and welcomed graduates
Fr. William Buckley, Chaplain
searching for engraved initials in the pole vault pit and reviewing yearbooks. What a
Elizabeth Williams, Bookkeeper
from the Class of 2003 with a campus tour and walk down memory lane, to include tremendous group of proud RCS graduates they are!
Trace King, Director of Facilities
Artwork from our elementary and middle school students decorate the halls and the
Denise Beltran, Segura Advocate
talent within these students is truly a gift to witness. We thank our incredible
Matt Peck, Associate Athletic Director Michelle Schmucker, Admissions & Advancement Coordinator and Designer Kellie Moore, School Secretary
teachers, like Mr. Johnson in our Art Department, for creating opportunities for students to share their talents and gifts with others. This year we began our flight program and partnership with Roanoke Star Flight Training. Students in our high school are learning about this industry along with avionics and instruction that will lead to a pilots license for some of our students.
SCHOOL BOARD
Our donors continue to support RCS at a pace unmatched within the region and we
John Thomas, Chair (St. Andrew’s) Dan Burkhard, Vice-Chair & Treasurer (Transfiguration) Ron Downing, Secretary (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) Michelle Gereaux-Karim (Our Lady of Nazareth) Brian Chubb (St. Gerard’s) Ben Price (At Large) Frank Toney (At Large) Angela Toney (At Large)
month we celebrated the nearly quarter of a century of dedicated coaching by Mr.
are so incredibly blessed by their love and dedication to our students. Earlier this Bob Price and Mr. Joe Sweeney to our football program. Both of these excellent coaches have announced their retirement but we know they will remain active supporters and champions of RCS. Please continue to pray for our students, staff and families, and come visit us on “The Hill“ just as often as you can. All my best, Patrick
The first few months I’ve spent as the chaplain at Roanoke Catholic this fall have already been filled with many great experiences. It’s been a real privilege for me to become part of the community, begin getting to know everyone, and share the Catholic faith in various ways. Having the opportunity to celebrate Mass for the school community, usually each Tuesday morning, has been a great blessing for me and, I am confident, for the whole community. For us as Catholics, Jesus is the foundation for everything we do. So, it is immensely valuable to be able to share his word with everyone and especially to celebrate the Holy Eucharist. I have also been able to offer a monthly day of Eucharistic adoration at the school chapel, as well as offer the sacrament of Confession at various times. Special blessings, such as the blessing of animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi and the Ring Day Ceremony for the junior class have been memorable highlights as well. I believe that our God wants to make his presence and his love known in every aspect of our lives, whether in the joyful moments or through the more difficult times. As I have visited the different classes and gotten to know the life of the students in various ways, it has been awesome to see so many ways in which God is present and at work here. Please continue to pray for our school community, that we may be open to his presence in everything and follow where he leads us. May God bless you, Fr. William
Class of 2023 Saturday, June 10th was an absolutely glorious graduation day for the Roanoke Catholic School Class of 2023! Graduates along with their families and friends, gathered with Administration, Faculty, and Staff, for commencement exercises in the Gillespie Family Gymnasium. Salutatorian Meagan Beheler shared a beautiful and heartfelt address of appreciation and admiration. A constant theme throughout the prior night’s Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement keynote speakers, was a call to remain true to the original work of art that God created in His own image, in each and every graduate. "Do not become a photocopy." Valedictorian Angela Drapac challenged her fellow graduates to hold on to where they came from as they embark on setting out into this world, and as St. Catherine of Siena is quoted, "Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire." Congratulations to the Class of 2023!
Homecoming on the Hill
The special annual tradition of our 2023 Homecoming Bonfire did not disappoint! On this beautiful October evening, our Celtic families enjoyed delicious food truck fare from Lazy Bulldog and Much Dogs not to mention massive ice cream sandwiches from Rookie's ! Our amazing HSA not only hosted a pop-up shop with new Fall Celtic Pride merch but also brought in the fan-favorite and former Celtic herself "The Face Painter" Alana Broholm while all in attendance enjoyed the FCA class float parade as well! Ladies from the Class of 2025 took on the Class of 2024, in a spirited PowderPuff game, coached and cheered for by the gentlemen of their respective classes, in a faceoff ultimately crowning the Senior Class of 2024 the 2023 PowderPuff Champions! All Fall Athletic teams were then announced and celebrated, and after a prayer for our Celtic family, the lighting of the Bonfire took place and the Celtic spirit was shared as all on the Hill enjoyed the rest of the evening by the fire in fellowship. The following morning, Friday of Homecoming Week, kicked off with a Homecoming Pep Rally for the books! Our amazing Varsity Cheer team and coaches planned an awesome time of Celtic Spirit and fun games the entire student body REALLY got into! (Let’s just say the Seniors may have won PowderPuff last night, but the Juniors won Musical Chairs...) Mr. Johnson announced staff and US/LS winners of the Pumpkin decorating contest, US Classes donned their class unity shirts and the Homecoming Pep Rally wrapped with none other than the beloved Church Clap! Immediately following, our Celtics met their 2023/2024 Prayer Buddies for the first time and got to spend time getting to know one another on this special day celebrating all that makes us Celtics and our Home on the Hill, the special place that it is!
Remembering faithful shepherds Monsignor Joseph Lehman and Father Stephen McNally from parishioner’s points of view Father Joe had a way of connecting to people and building relationships. From his outstanding ecumenical work in the community, to the individuals he ministered to in his parish. When I met Father Joe, I was a non-Catholic attending mass with my fiancé; as we were trying to find a “church home” where we both felt comfortable. Father Joe was exactly what I needed. His homilies were profound and left you with something to chew on after mass. His eyes radiated with the immense love of Christ. He knew every parishioner's name and the line after mass to chat with him was always long, as he loved getting to know each of us. Within a few years, I received the sacraments of first communion and confirmation and I was brought into the “fold”.
disappear with a fist bump. His baptisms, and welcoming in new family members into the body of Christ; were the most beautiful I have ever seen. Young children were welcome to come and sit around the holy water fount, as they watched in awe of new little ones being baptized.
Father Joe was fun loving and outgoing. He was the “life of the party”, and he brought joy with him wherever he went. His fun loving nature drew people to him and made him a pastor of his flock, that wasn’t at arms length; but was living life with us. He was relatable for children, and my own children adored him. He made first reconciliation nerves
I am forever thankful for Father Joe and for his resounding “yes” to God’s call to the priesthood. He was a shining example of the good shepherd caring for and guiding his flock. May God grant him peace, and as we approach the one year mark of his passing and may God grant comfort to his friends and family. -Mrs. Michelle Schmucker
When life got hard, Father Joe was there. In my own life, when my son was in the NICU fighting for his life; Father Joe came immediately and prayed over our tiny baby. We cried together, we laughed, and we felt the love of God surrounding us; with just his presence. Again, he rushed to our aid when my mother fell extremely ill. My husband and I couldn’t have made it through those times in our lives without him. God provided through Father Joe just what we needed.
My family and I knew Fr Steve for about 13 years as he came to Church of The Transfiguration in Fincastle, VA the same time we joined this parish. Father Steven was an imposing figure, standing over 6 feet, and with a big booming voice. He needed no microphone to deliver homilies and the like. He always stood down in front of the congregation as opposed to a podium and never had need of notes or script. His messages spoke of current events but always tied in the readings and gospel.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen
He genuinely loved his church and his parishioners, and would regularly visit sick and homebound, sometimes spending hours with them. He had a great sense of humor and used his New York upbringing as a background for many jokes, always with a self-deprecating style that left folks in stitches. He also cared deeply about the community and was very active with local fire and EMS departments, often going out to emergency
Click image below to play a tribute video
calls in the middle of the night, and as chaplain, would have to deliver awful news to families of victims of accidents, severe injuries and deaths. The local departments cared so much for Fr Steven that they carried his coffin on a firetruck to the church for his funeral Mass and then to the graveside for the interment. They also served as pallbearers. He had a deep conviction of being Ecumenical and reached out to area churches of all faiths, setting up events during Advent and Lent, and co-sponsoring bible schools for children. Speaking of children, he absolutely loved children and they loved him. He was especially fond of my grandson Thomas , whom he baptized when Thomas was an infant. In summary, Fr Stephen was a very special priest, friend and companion to everyone he met. We were very blessed to have him as our priest and to have to in our lives. -Mr. Joe Brogan
Liam Skelton ’26 10th grader Liam Skelton had the amazing, life changing opportunity to study abroad this past summer. The Island School in Eleuthera, The Bahamas, changed my life. The six week summer term I attended sparked new passions and interests that remain with me, and broadened my perspective on global issues. The first few days, all the students anticipated a profound experience, but we were hesitant and unsure in the new environment. I was especially nervous, being the youngest allowable age at fifteen in a group of fifty-nine high school students. The Island School’s core values: intentional community, sustainability, and sense of place launched me immediately into the greatest adventure of my life thus far. The intentional community value required intense awareness from every student regarding how we affected one another. Parallel to high school culture, in the beginning of the term, students separated into exclusive friend groups and cliques. Island School leadership immediately challenged this, and worked to help us branch out and integrate outside our comfort zones. I found friends in unexpected people. It was powerful to wake up every morning surrounded by new close friends, all from completely different walks of life,
and places around the world. Even the course structure reflected an intentional community. Each summer term class, Marine Ecology, Tourism and Development, and Sustainable Systems, ran one entire week at a time to allow more meaningful experiences and focus. I took every class with the same twenty people so more significant relationships could form as we studied and explored. The Island School’s value of sustainability was visible the moment I stepped on campus, from their wind turbine to their solar panel covered buildings. Sustainable behavior dictated our daily lives. Student showers, taken with rain water, were limited to under three minutes. After each meal, everyone carefully divided their scraps into buckets, which served different purposes on the campus farm. Then, food produced with the help of this compost was served in the dining hall. Sustainable Systems class included learning how human systems operate, their effects on the environment, and climate change. We researched food systems, different farming methods, and the soil’s essential role in carbon
sequestration, perfectly illustrated in the documentary we viewed called Kiss the Ground. I learned more about our seafood system’s peril. Industries across the world are depleting fish populations, and offsetting the food chain through aggressive fishing methods and disregard for rapidly declining species. On a positive note, my class visited a conch fishery operating sustainably, and dove for and ate our own catch. The Island School’s third core value, sense of place, is the most difficult to describe, while properly portraying its importance. Sense of place encourages living well in a place or fully appreciating the nature around you, while understanding how it operates, and protecting it. The Tourism and Development class, exemplified this core value. Students spent the entire week traveling the island in school vans, and camping on different beaches each night. During the day, we focused on Bahamian tourism. We learned about the downsides of tourism contributing to over fifty percent of their economy. When one industry controls a country, it stifles citizens' ambition to work for anything
else. We learned that most Bahamian citizens have, currently or will work in the tourism industry. Unauthentic tourism prevents promotion of real culture. The tourism industry of the Bahamas mostly promotes white sand beaches and light blue water, but I saw for myself it’s much more than that. We visited different tourist attractions, as well as many less known sites, which were equally or often far more beautiful and unique. The final two days of the class were spent on the “forty hour solo”. I was left alone on a long stretch of beach, with a tarp, bug net, drum of water, and a Ziploc bag of food. I brought some clothing and a journal, but nothing else. Each student found different meaning in the solo, but for me, it was difficult. I reflected on my experiences so far. As a total extrovert however, it was mostly an extreme test of mental endurance. Forced gratitude filled me for the amenities at home, on campus, and in hand on that beach. Many don’t enjoy guaranteed sources of food and water. When I returned afterwards, I saw the world in a vastly different way. The previously uncomfortable, unairconditioned dorm, filled with new people, felt like home. Marine Ecology class focused on the underwater world. I witnessed first hand the results of overfishing in reduced populations of aquatic species. We also saw coral diseases, and coral bleaching, direct results of global warming. The class consisted mostly of experiential
learning, however, an integral part was also research and debate on different topics. During SCUBA dives, and snorkels, we applied fish identification, and studied the behavior of different sea organisms. The class ended in a highly anticipated event: the shark dive. Many students, myself included, waited in fearful anticipation of shark encounters. Marine Ecology taught us to appreciate the beauty of sharks, and how promoting the idea that sharks are only aggressive sells. I noticed a transition in myself and others from fear of the unknown to curiosity and wonder. Students often spent free time on the beach. Sharks regularly swam by, and when someone yelled “Shark,” people stopped sprinting out of the water, and started asking “Where?” The shark dive took place at sixty feet, the limit of students’ SCUBA certification. I vividly remember clenching my jaw with fear, after my dive buddy Max and I descended, to find a 6ft Caribbean Reef Shark three feet away sustaining a piercing stare. Then, it simply swam on, observing other students. I suddenly realized that it was just curious and not formulating some plan of attack. My irrational fear of sharks sat on a foundation of falsehoods. The rest of the dive, I looked only in awe at curious sharks. Whether in the field or on campus, the entire Island School community woke up at 6:00 am for AMX (a.m. exercise). It gave us stamina for SCUBA diving, free diving, and even the solo. Its primary
purpose however, was preparation for the culminating event of summer term: the Monster Run/Swim. The Monster’s course mixed ocean swimming with long distance running for a total of six miles. It made me stronger physically and mentally, but also resulted in some of the tightest bonds I’ve ever had with people. Despite planning our running groups in advance, all the students were scattered and stretched out along the route. A rising senior named Mo, who I didn’t know well, met up with me at one of the checkpoints during a running segment, and we completed the Monster together. We shared philosophical conversations and pain, forming an incredible bond at the very end of the term. This summer 2023 I lived with fifty-nine brand new kids, I swam with sharks, and spent forty hours on a beach by myself. Most of all, my values were put to the test and I was challenged to expand my perspective on the world. The Island School forced me open to possibilities; that I might enjoy learning about dirt, that I might eventually love sharks, that maybe a person is bigger than my preconceived notions of them. I was pushed far outside my comfort zone in daily temperatures over 95°F, bug bitten, covered in sand, but this made me adaptable, even more curious about the world and ready for my next adventure.
Spirit of Service on the Hill Faculty & Staff Community building through community service! The Wednesday before school started this year, during Teacher Work Week, faculty and staff shared a very special time both on and off the Hill, for our day of "Community Building through Community Service"!
Key Club The spirit of service on the Hill is wonderfully depicted by our very active and robust RCS Key Club. We have a great group of student leaders as well as members. A snapshot of what Key Club has done since last fall includes the following projects: Rescue Mission, "Grow the Love" (planting at the Kiwanis Nature Park), babysitting during Teacher workweek, Soup for Seniors, backpack stuffing, and the recent Crop Walk to name a few. Key Club President, Ellie Patel '24 states "Some of my favorite projects this year were the Crop Walk and working with the Rescue Mission. The Crop Walk is always fun because we usually either walk or guide traffic as a group, and it's nice to see a whole community get together for a good cause. This year we stood at intersections and made sure the walkers crossed safely, and it was cool to see everyone so excited to be participating. Doing these projects together is great because not only do we make each other laugh but we get to serve the community as a community of close friends. This year we haven't done the sock drive or made blankets yet, but I'm looking forward to those projects as well". Dillan Patel '24, last year's Key Club Lt. Gov. and a current active member, shared "A service project I personally like doing is helping at the Rescue Mission and doing food prep. It's super impactful as we are feeding loads of people who are hungry and maybe can't afford a meal. As we are helping prep sandwiches and other food items, there is so much stuff. And knowing the Rescue Mission, it will all be used for a good cause. The amount of food we make in a day shows the impact we are leaving on those who are maybe just eating their first and only meal of the day. Also, it's a fun activity to get to know our school community and talk to people we may have never spoken to at school or gotten to know. It shows unity with our school community."
Our team of educators broke into groups and headed off to the Rescue Mission, R.A.M. House and Commonwealth Catholic Charities. Groups went to the Rescue Mission Homeless Shelter kitchen to prepare lunch, their Manna Warehouse to sort food for their distribution box program, the Donation Center to sort and tag clothes, and the Thrift Store to organize household goods. Another group went to Commonwealth Catholic Charities to fill backpacks and make cards for refugees starting school. And yet another group when to the RAM house to serve breakfast this morning as well as prepare lunch for the day. One group was even blessed to run into two former RCS Alums on their trip as well! Everyone returned to the Hill to enjoy a pizza lunch together, followed by a reflection led by our new School Chaplain, Fr. William Buckley on 1 Peter 5:1-7, James 5:7-8, and Psalm 66. Finally, in closing the day, we all gathered to celebrate Mass as a school community at St. Andrews. It was a Spirit-filled day of fellowship, serving, and worship. It most definitely filled the cups of our amazing educators as they tirelessly worked to prepare to welcome back our Celtics to the Hill the following week!
Spirit of Service on the Hill Charlie Floyd ’25 Over the past few years, Junior Charlie Floyd, has repeatedly demonstrated her love for all things Roanoke Catholic and her dedication to Celtic spirit through many of her self-initiated endeavors. As she enjoys photography, Charlie took the Photojournalism class last year through the Art department which also likely led to her starting an unofficial social media account for the RCS student section. For this online presence, Charlie, along with others, has gathered the necessary information and created effective promotional materials to increase student spirit for whatever the upcoming occasion on the Hill may be. This has included communicating with Administration on everything from approved themes for Home Football games at “The Swamp” to relaying student votes and creating graphics for US Spirit Days during Homecoming Week and Catholic Schools Week. Additionally, Charlie has hosted “media days” for several of our athletic teams to include Girls Basketball, Football, Volleyball, Lacrosse, Track, Baseball and Softball with even more on the horizon, to capture photos to be used to promote the teams during their seasons. She also edited reels of our Boy’s Varsity Basketball teams to amp up Celtic Pride in anticipation of key match ups. Charlie is often seen with her camera in hand capturing Celtic Pride at an array of school events such as HSA’s A Night in Bethlehem and she also digitally recreated the caricature of the student beloved “Celtic” on the Green Onion concession stand in the Gillespie Family Gymnasium, to be used on occasion and who is always received with great enthusiasm. Most recently, Charlie has eagerly helped with iGive Catholic videos of students and even painted Dean of College and Career Counseling Mrs. Galazka’s office with a mural of “The Hill”!
Home & School Association After a widely-felt-by-all absence of parents’ physical presence on the Hill due to the pandemic, the past couple of years have been a breath of fresh air! A reorganized RCS Home and School Association, under the direction of RCS Parent Laura Beth Gregory (’33 & ’35) and several dynamic Core Leadership Team members, has both expanded, and dramatically grown the robust array of events from which or our broader Celtic Family benefits! These endeavors include everything from the resurrection of familiar favorites like the ever so special Grandpals Day, Donuts with Dad, and Morning with Mom, and even the upcoming Christmas Store, to new opportunities for fellowship with events such as A Night Under the Star and Celtic Fest on the Hill! These are in addition to all the fun and exciting ways to support our amazing educators with Teacher Appreciation efforts like Classroom Wish lists and monthly themed appreciation events like the Fall Coffee and Pie Bar, or “Nacho Average Teacher” Taco Bar and of course, the ever popular stocking of the Woot Woot Wagon for a surprise visit. HSA is only as impactful as the gracious parents and extended Celtic family, who dedicate their time and talents to its mission, and is always looking for additional collaboration. If you have any questions or would like to contribute to the Celtic community by getting involved, please contact hsa@roanokecatholic.com.
Honoring Coach Bob Price On Saturday, November 4, over 100 alumni, students, current and former families, faculty, staff, former coaches, and friends gathered in the Gillespie Family Gymnasium for a surprise party to celebrate the stellar coaching career of Head Football Coach Bob Price. Coach Price retired from coaching at the end of the season. With 24 years coaching at Roanoke Catholic and 21 as head coach, Coach Price and Assistant Coach Joe Sweeney ’89 have enjoyed a great run with Celtics football. Under Coach Price’s leadership, the football team earned a Division 1V state title in 2014 and three consecutive Division III state titles in 2016, 2017, and 2018. Our deepest gratitude goes to Joe and Dr. Nina Keeley Sweeney ’88 and Michael and Patrese Pyle for planning the celebration. Coach Sweeney, who also retired from coaching at the end of the season, emceed the program where Coach Price was honored by Scott Lamb ’04, who played on Coach Price’s first team as head coach, Matt Kuehler ’15, who played on his first state championship team, Steven Clark ’19, who played on the three consecutive state championship teams (and was the surprise speaker to honor Coach Sweeney), and Paul Ripley ’66 who served as athletic director during their tenure and coached with them (and in Joe’s case, Mr. Ripley coached him in high school). It was an inspiring night honoring Coach Price and his impact on so many lives.
(pictured above) Assistant Football Coach Joe Sweeney ’89 with Head Coach Bob Price. Top of page: Coach Price We have been so fortunate to have had Coach Price leading Celtics football over the last two and family. decades and will miss Bob and Joe on the sidelines every fall. Thank you, Coach Price!
Alumni on the Hill
Thursday of Catholic Schools Week 2023 Celtics thoroughly enjoyed hearing from Turner King, Class of 2006, as our Alumni Guest Speaker. Turner is part of the two-time State Champion Celtics Basketball Team and has since been inducted into the HampdenSydney Hall of Fame. Turner shared the biggest lessons in life that he traces back to his time on the Hill, and how his Catholic education impacted him in life, (married to our beloved Mrs. Blake King) in his professional career, and throughout his basketball success. Turner’s insight and inspiration was a wonderful opportunity for discussion enjoyed by all.
It is not unusual to see George “Pat” Simpson, RCS Class of 1967 on the Hill (pictured above right with classmate Tony Sartini ’67), planning alumni events, awarding scholarships from the RCS Alumni Association, and enjoying Celtic athletic games. This year marks 30 years of service to the Alumni Association as president. Pat Simpson loves Roanoke Catholic, and he loves seeing our Alumni family together. He is working with a dedicated alumni committee to bring back the Mega Alumni Reunion in June 2024. If you would like to help, please let us know, and we will put you in touch with Pat. We are immensely grateful for Pat and all he has done and continues to do to help students, alums, and the school.
Mrs. Schlesser's Literature to Film class hosted RCS Alum Phil Wall, Class of 2002 and enjoyed a wonderful dialogue about his process of creating his film The Book Keepers. Students learned about his chosen course of study before becoming a filmmaker and even advice he heeded from LivePlanet's Matt Damon and Ben Affleck during his internship, to candid information about the business of distribution and licensing in filmmaking and the 11,000 documentary films annually vying for a share of the market. Students heard about Phil’s passion for storytelling through creating experiences for the audience, which applies to all literary processes, and was the inadvertent origin for this, his 3rd documentary in The Book Keepers. The film was screened at The Grandin Theatre later that evening, complete with a Q and A following, with both Phil Wall and his father Dick Wall, former RCS Basketball coach and instructor. It was a beautiful, candid, and heartfelt documentary, offering insight to a very personal and intimate story of a family's grief and healing after the loss of their wife and mother, Mrs. Carol Wall, who authored Mister Owita's Guide to Gardening. Grandin Theatre was packed to capacity and in the audience were former RCS Administration, Faculty and students of Mrs. Wall. We are so honored to have been able to share in the celebration of this memoir from a former member of our faculty, turned film as told through the eyes of her RCS Alumnus son.
RCS Class of 1987 Alumna and Class of 2025 parent, Mrs. Jennifer Kibler Keeley offered a heartfelt keynote address in celebration of the Class of 2025 for this year’s Junior Class 2023 Ring Day with the whole Upper School in attendance. Jennifer offered reflection on the RCS circular connection of a lifetime that a Celtic enjoys and handed out written words that are key attributes in life that Celtics both experience and strengthen while on the Hill. Mrs. Keeley dove more indepth with three specifically; Unity, Courage, and Ownership, and reflected on Celtics' bonds lasting a lifetime because the foundation Celtics build on the Hill is all about a life first and foremost, that serves God. The celebration was exciting, while bittersweet in some instances, and very meaningful.
Alumni Helping on the Hill
Geralynn Slough Trellue ’77 (pictured above right with Wensday Tumulak and Natalie Knipp ’23, on campus last spring) has tirelessly helped the Advancement Office as a reunion committee leader, volunteer at events, planner of local alumni gatherings, and a cheerleader of all things RCS alumni. Thank you, Geralynn!
Beth Levy Applegate ’08, (pictured above with daughters Clara and Elena) is a frequent presence on campus through her leadership role with the Home and School Association as well as a volunteer for reunion gatherings and school related and alumni events. We are grateful for you, Beth!
Stephen Niamke ’79 is well known to the RCS family as our former athletic director. As an alum, he serves as the family representative to award the Mrs. Maggie Perrin Jones Memorial Scholarship each year, and still helps the Celtic Athletic program by volunteering to keep time at basketball games and assisting with football games. Stephen is also a faithful volunteer at alumni events. Thank you, Stephen!
Celtic Celebrations
Congratulations and happy first anniversary to RCS alumni couple Charlie ’07 and Morgan Jessee Durham ’09. Morgan is the daughter of RCS alums Peter ’79 and Carol Canary Jessee ’83 and sister of Maria Jessee Crouch ’12 (also a newlywed!). RCS Alums: We would love to share your good news! Send us your engagement, wedding, and baby announcements (or other updates). We are launching alumni pages on Instagram and Facebook next week, so please stay tuned for updates on upcoming alumni gatherings and reunions.
ADVANCEMENT Dear Roanoke Catholic Family, Greetings from the Advancement Office! I hope you are enjoying a joyful Thanksgiving season! In this newsletter section, you will find our Annual Report for 2022-23. Our fiscal year ended on June 30 with $798,000 given in support of the Annual Fund, scholarships, the Education Improvement Scholarship Tax Credits (EISTC) program, sponsorships, and designated gifts. Every gift to Roanoke Catholic makes a difference. Thank you for the positive impact you are making on our school and students! We are deeply grateful for your continued prayers and support. As our national Catholic Day of Giving event, iGiveCatholic, approaches on Tuesday, November 28, I am amazed by our incredible community of alumni, current and former families, parishes, faculty/staff, and friends who help our school. We are seeking ways to connect our students to the broader Celtic community. Please let me know if you are interested in speaking to classes, serving as a mentor, or providing an internship for one of our students. More will come soon on an alumni mentorship program at Roanoke Catholic. We are thankful for you! Please visit us on the Hill when you have a chance! We hope to see you soon. Yours in Christ, Joanna Coleman
Joanna Coleman Dean of Advancement
ANNUAL REPORT SUPPORTING ROANOKE CATHOLIC SCHOOL JULY 1, 2022-JUNE 30, 2023
The 1889 Society $50,000 and above Molly and Robert Hardie ’83
$25,000 - $49,999 Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Jack Winston ’60
$10,000 - $24,999 Aaron Periodontics and Dental Implants Mr. and Mrs. Robert Price Dr. and Mrs. Robert White
$5,000 - $9,999 Ancient Order of Hibernians Dr. Andrew Fintel and Dr. Amy Vizcarra Mr. and Mrs. G. Orban Gregory (Marie Denise Florent Gregory ’60) Mr. and Mrs. Martin O’Brien Mr. and Mrs. Tony Pearman Mr. and Mrs. Ed Wynn ’67
$2,500 - $4,999 Mr. and Mrs. William Bradley Ms. Katherine Fralin Mr. Charles Johnson ’69 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Levy Drs. Jeremy and Jo-Anne Llavore Mr. A. Stephen Richards ’70 Mr. Andy Stinnett ’69 Mr. Kerry Whitt and Mrs. Lynn Rebello
Key Club $1,000 - $2,499 Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Rick Bowyer Mrs. Ann Brunner Dr. and Mrs. Jack Bumgardner (Barbara Olander Bumgardner ’63) Mr. William Burke Mr. James Capillo Mr. and Mrs. John Carroll Miss Louise Clendenen ’56 Mr. Thomas Dugan ’59 and Mrs. Doris Driscoll Dugan’59 Dr. Bernard and Dr. Jane Ezigbo Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Fame Mr. and Mrs. Larry Fischbach Mr. Robert Fralin Col. and Mrs. Dewey George Mr. Carl Gibson Dr. Christopher ’85 and Mrs. Jennifer Kibler Keeley ’87 Mr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Mabry (Karen Meador Mabry ’67) Mr. Marty Montano ’75 Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Morgan Ms. Kimberly Nevetral Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Patterson Mr. and Mrs. Robert “Frank” Peck Mrs. Sandra Puccinelli Mr. and Mrs. George “Pat” Simpson ’67 Mr. and Mrs. Peter Snow Mr. and Mrs. Charles Suba Ms. Kathleen Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Ray Sweeney Tulsa Community Foundation
Green & Gold $500 - $999 Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Brian Brodfuehrer Mr. and Mrs. Joe Brogan Drs. Joe and Susan Clark Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Deane ’58 (Elizabeth “Diddy” Gillespie Deane ’56) Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Donckers Mr. Joseph Donnelly ’61 Mrs. Donna Galazka Ms. Pam Gilmer Italian American Heritage Club of Roanoke Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lieber Mr. Chris Michael Mr. and Mrs. Paul Miller Ms. Marilyn Montano Dr. Norberto Paras and Dr. Maria Soriano Mr. and Mrs. Mike and Michelle Pendleton Dr. John and Dr. Karen Perkins Roanoke College- Chi Omega Sorority Mr. and Mrs. Tony Sartini ’67 Mr. and Mrs. Tim Shelton ’74 Mr. and Mrs. Frank Smusz Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Spichek Mr. Quinn Thomas Mr. and Mrs. David Tucker Dr. Douglas Wright and Dr. Anita Kablinger
Friend Up to $499
Anonymous Dr. James Alouf ’65 Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Argabright ’65 Mrs. Stephania Arnold ’68 Mrs. Margaret Wilson Arthur ’60 Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ayers Mr. Richard Baker Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Baker Fr. John Paul Blankenship ’55 Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bova ’63 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Bowers Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Gene Brady ’67 (Tracy Kormann Brady ’71) Mrs. Trudy Vandergrift Brailsford ’79 Dr. and Mrs. David Brajdic Mr. John Briggs Mr. and Mrs. Phil Brundrett
Mrs. Lucy Burke Mr. Michael Canary Mrs. Sheri Carroll ’87 Mr. and Mrs. Mike Cassell (Pamela Keeley Cassell ’74) Ms. Deanna Cebulash and Mr. Philip Sheridan Mr. and Mrs. Burman Clark Mr. and Mrs. George Clemo Mr. and Mrs. John Coleman Ms. Patricia Collins Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia- Rita Knox Hutts Memorial Fund Mrs. Samantha Cook Mrs. Anne McNally Cooper ’03 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Craddock ’64 Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Crannis Capt. Eric Crump, USPHS (Ret.) ’79 Mr. and Mrs. Damon Daniels Ms. Beverly Davis Mr. Denis Deane ’64 Mr. and Mrs. David Deel Mrs. Holly Dickard Mr. Glen Dickard Mrs. Peggy Dogan ’47 Ms. Jean Doyle Ms. Dorros Evans Mr. Gordon Ewald ’66 Lt. Col. Henry Faery ’56 Mr. Joel Fagerstrom Mr. and Mrs. William Fields Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Galazka Mrs. Mary Gallardo Mrs. Nancy Gillespie Mr. and Mrs. Jason Green Dr. Kelly Nelson and Mr. Nathaniel Greenlees Dr. and Mrs. Braden Gregory Mr. Gunther Greimel Mrs. Pat Grunewald Ms. Maureen Guilfoyle Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Guzi ’65 Mr. Gregory Haase Mr. Richard Hammerstrom Mr. Andrew Hansbrough ’57
Mr. and Mrs. William Hart ’80 (Laurie Collins Hart ’79) Mr. and Mrs. R.A. Herskovitz John M. Oakley, Inc. Mr. Demetrius Johnson Dr. Isaiah and Mrs. Liz Johnson Andrew and Rosalee Kaplan Mr. Clarence Karpowich Mr. and Mrs. Justin Keen Mr. and Mrs. Trace King Mr. Webb King and Mrs. Allegra Black King Mr. and Mrs. Michael Kolnok Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kurshan Mr. Philip Labas Ms. Pauline Donato Lea ’85 Dr. and Mrs. David LeBel Mr. and Mrs. William Lee Mrs. Chelsea Moody Lewis ’06 Mr. Hector Luna-Quetell and Mrs. Yelitza Rivera-Rodriguez Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lund Mac and Bob’s Restaurant Ms. Christine Markowski Ms. Lois Masinter Mr. Edward Mayer Mr. and Mrs. Michael McAllister Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McCoy Mr. and Mrs. Michael McEvoy Dr. and Mrs. Paul McGuire Mr. and Mrs. John McKenna ’79 Mr. and Mrs. George McLean Mrs. Dorothy Rowe Mertz ’72 Ms. Deborah Michael Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Millehan ’62 Mrs. Lynn Miller ’68 Mr. and Mrs. Tom Mitchell ’66 (Mary Vandergrift Mitchell ’75) Mrs. Kellie Moore Mr. and Mrs. Gene Muddiman ’57 Mrs. Ruth Muller Mr. and Mrs. John Mycock Network for Good Mr. Stephen Niamke Norfolk Southern Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. James Notebaert Mr. and Mrs. William Nunnally Ms. Cynthia O’Bryan Mr. James O’Connor ’60 Ms. Amanda O’Dell Dr. and Mrs. Eric Oliver Mr. Reinhard O’Neill Mrs. Sharron Palermo Mr. Nick Patel and Mrs. Sara Plante Mr. and Mrs. John Pendarvis Mr. Justin Pendarvis ’98 Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Perry Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Peters Mr. and Mrs. Ray Peterson Ms. Joan Petrus Mr. and Mrs. Charles Phillips Ms. Carolyn Pillis Mrs. Arlene Poff Mr. and Mrs. John Michael Potter Mr. Robert Puig Mr. Johnny Quest Mr. and Mrs. Jack Rapoport Mrs. Anna Marie Richardson Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Robertson Mrs. Sally Roth Mr. James Rowe, Jr. ’70 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Rowland Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Rush Mr. Fritz Scholz Mr. Charles Schwallenberg ’56 Mr. Mike Segedi Ms. Susan Shandler Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Simpson Mr. and Mrs. Michael Simpson Ms. Ashley Simpson Sink Mr. and Mrs. Michael Slenski Ms. Guissella Sola Mr. and Mrs. James Spichek ’90 Mrs. Marilyn Stanley Mr. Robert Stanley ’67 Mr. and Mrs. David Sulpizi Mr. Joseph Surkamer, Jr. ’64 Mr. Joseph ’89 and Dr. Nina Keeley Sweeney ’88 Mrs. Kitty Thomas
Mr. and Mrs. William Thompson Mr. Paul Thomson ’59 Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Thulin (Anne Williams Thulin ’84) Mrs. Gail Tighe Ms. Geralynn Slough Trellue Mr. and Mrs. Joe Tucciarone Mrs. Annette Tudor Mr. and Mrs. David Turk ’70 Mr. and Mrs. Frank Turk ’66 Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Turner Mrs. Richard Turner Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Van Vechten Mr. and Mrs. Jim Verney Mrs. Linda Walker Dr. and Mrs. Paul Whalen Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wheeling Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Williams Mr. John Williams ’57 Mr. and Mrs. James Wilson ’63 Sister Joan Wilson SCN ’52 Mr. and Mrs. Paul Yengst, III Mr. Qin Zhang
Designated Gifts Athletics Department Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Lund (softball) Mr. and Mrs. Robert “Frank” Peck Mr. and Mrs. James Spichek ’90 Chapel Renovation Mr. and Mrs. Laurence Levy Computer Science Programming Mr. and Mrs. Brian Brodfuehrer Early Learners and Pre-K Programming Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Levy Music Department Dr. and Mrs. Robert White
Upper School Programming Mr. and Mrs. Phil Brundrett Upper School Academics (English) Dr. Isaiah and Mrs. Liz Johnson
McMahon Parater Foundation Education Improvement Scholarships Tax Credits $25,000 to $49,999 Dr. Gavin Aaron
$10,000 to $24,999 Jason and Christie Hartman Bernard Odasz Frank and Pamela Peck Theodore and Frances Sienicki
$5,000 to $9,999 Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Mark N. Clark Larry and Wanda Fischbach Mr. and Mrs. George “Pat” Simpson ’67
$2,500 to $4,999 Mr. Francis T. Kristoff Joanne A. Mayberry Francene Kristoff and John H. Turner, Jr.
$1,000 to $2,499 Dr. Maureen Aaron Dr. Jeanne Clerc James G. Cosby and Noel Burke Cosby Gregory F. Kristoff Dr. Harry Montoro John Robert and Marion Walton
$500 to $999 Mr. Marc McKenna
Honors and Memorials In memory of Dorothy Virginia Garmin Blankenship Laurie Father John Blankenship ’55 In memory of classmates Rickie Brown, Karl Slough, John Rogan, and Ramona Caldwell Capt. Eric Crump, USPHS (Ret.) ’79 In memory of Bobby Collins Mr. and Mrs. William Hart ’80 (Laurie Collins Hart ’79) In memory of Patricia Eubank Ms. Kimberly Nevetral In honor of Bradley and Madison Galazka Donna Galazka In memory of Loretta Craddock Gibson ’66 Mr. Carl Eddie Gibson In memory of Father James Goode, OFM ’59 Mr. Paul Thomson, Jr. In memory of John, Patricia, and Tom Guzi Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Guzi ’65 In memory of Mrs. Maggie P. Jones and Herbert C. Jones, Sr. Mr. Stephen Niamke In memory of Dr. Robert L.A. and Mrs. Nina Keeley Mr. and Mrs. Mike Cassell (Pamela Keeley Cassell ’74) Dr. Christopher ’85 and Mrs. Jennifer K. Keeley ’87 Mr. Joseph ’89 and Dr. Nina Keeley Sweeney ’88 In memory of Mr. Michael McFadden ’63 Mr. Richard Hammerstrom In memory of Jack and Peggy McKenna Mr. and Mrs. John McKenna ’79
In Memory of Mr. John McKenna Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Crannis Mr. and Mrs. Stephen J. Mabry (Karen Meador Mabry ’67) Mr. and Mrs. John Mycock Ms. Joan Petrus Mr. and Mrs. Jack Rapoport Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Van Vechten In memory of Mr. Patrick Minahan Mrs. Anne McNally Cooper Mr. Joel Fagerstrom Mac and Bob’s Restaurant Mr. and Mrs. William Nunnally Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Perry Mr. and Mrs. Charles Phillips Mrs. Arlene Poff Mr. Charles Schwallenberg Mr. Quinn Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Wheeling In memory of the deceased members of the Michael and Werry Families Mr. Chris Michael In memory of Celtic Family members Matt Peck, Noah Peck, and Addy Green Ms. Jean Doyle In honor of Alexis and Erin Potter Mr. and Mrs. John Michael Potter In honor of George “Pat” Simpson ’67 Ashley Simpson Sink In honor of our granddaughters Lydia, Julia, and Delia Tanious Mr. and Mrs. Brian Brodfuehrer In Memory of Lana Tucker Mr. John Briggs In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Allen Wilson Mr. Margaret Wilson Arthur ’60
Scholarship Gifts Alumni Association Scholarship Mr. and Mrs. John Rowland Mrs. and Mrs. George “Pat” Simpson ’67
Ancient Order of Hibernians Scholarships Ancient Order of Hibernians Zach Bowyer ’14 Honorary Scholarship Mr. and Mrs. Rick Bowyer Cy Brunner Memorial Scholarship Mrs. Ann Brunner Buck and Camilla Buchanan Memorial Scholarship Mrs. Lynn Miller ’68 The Robert Dickard Scholarship Fund (In memory of Robert Dickard) Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bradley Mr. Glen Dickard Mrs. Holly Ott Dickard Mr. and Mrs. William Fields John M. Oakey, Inc. The Loretta C. Gibson Scholarship Fund Mr. Carl Gibson
The Mary Gillespie Hardie ’50 and Jack Randall Hardie Memorial Scholarship (In memory of Helena “Lena” Gillespie ’60) Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ayers Mrs. Lucy Burke Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Deane ’58 (Elizabeth “Diddy” Gillespie Deane ’56) Mrs. Mary Gallardo Mrs. Nancy Gillespie Mrs. Kitty Martin Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Robertson
The Italian American Heritage Club Scholarship Italian American Heritage Club of Roanoke
Dr. Robert L.A. Keeley Memorial Scholarship Mr. and Mrs. Mike Cassell (Pamela Keeley Cassell ’74) Kawuan Ray Memorial Scholarship Dr. Gavin Aaron Patrick T. Rowe ’78 Memorial Scholarship Mrs. Dorothy Rowe Mertz ’72 Mr. James Rowe, Jr. ’70 Dowd Sullivan Family Scholarship Ms. Kathleen Sullivan Eda W. Wynn Memorial Scholarship Mrs. Sharron Palermo Mr. and Mrs. Ed Wynn ’67 In honor of Regina Wynn Williamson’s Retirement Ms. Deanna Cebulash and Mr. Philip Sheridan Mr. RA and Mrs. Patricia Herskovitz Ms. Rosalee Kaplan Mr. and Mrs. Richard Kurshan Ms. Lois Y. Masinter Mrs. Susan Shandler
Gifts in Kind Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Deane ’58 (Elizabeth “Diddy” Gillespie Deane ’56) Mr. Jose Machado Mr. and Mrs. George “Pat” Simpson ’67
2023 SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS We were very excited about the return of the in-person scholarship dinner in June. Nearly 40 merit and financial-based scholarships have been created in honor or memory of loved ones, families, and Roanoke Catholic School alums and faculty members that benefit current students. We are deeply grateful for the kindness and generosity of the alums, families, parishes, and Roanoke Catholic friends who make a tremendous impact on students each year through their scholarships. If you want to establish a scholarship or learn more about the process, please contact Joanna Coleman, Dean of Advancement, at 540.685.1046 or jcoleman@roanokecatholic.com.
The Mary Gillespie Hardie and Jack Randall Hardie Full Scholarship
(pictured above left to right) David Hardie with Katherine Coulter and Kayle Perkins. The Gillespie and Hardie Families: Nancy Gillespie, Elizabeth “Diddy” Gillespie Deane ’56, Kevin Deane ’58, Nora Gillespie Weikel ’54, David Hardie, Katherine Coulter, and Kayle Perkins. We thank Robert Hardie ’83 and his wife, Molly, for making these scholarships possible.
Awarded to one Lower School and one Upper School student.
Dominick T. Jordan Memorial Scholarship
Mrs. Maggie Perrin Jones Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Alex Feese
(pictured above) Stephen Niamke ’79 with Amara Ezigbo
Awarded to a grade K-11 student member of Transfiguration Catholic Church.
Awarded to a student of African descent in good academic standing and involved in athletics.
Kawuan Ray Memorial Scholarship
Cy Brunner Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Gavin Aaron with Demarcus Brown
(pictured above) Peyton Lawrence
Awarded to a male African American student leader in the Upper School who is actively engaged in student life.
Awarded to senior based on academic achievement, humility, love of God and fellow man.
Dr. Robert L.A. Keeley Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Dr. Nina Keeley Sweeney ’88 with Meg Hemphill, Addisen Green, and Nicholas Schmucker
Awarded to a senior, upper school, and lower school student. Merit based scholarship.
Marie A. Montano Scholarship
Zachary Burns '06 Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Marty Montano ’75 with Meagan Beheler and Mateo Lara-McNamara
(pictured above) David and Donna Burns with Addison Becker Awarded to an Upper School student who is an engaged citizen, leader in community and in athletics.
Awarded to a male and female senior based on high academic level of achievement in math and science.
Carlton and Peggy Russell Saul Memorial Scholarship
Patrick Thomas Rowe Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Elise Dearstyne
(pictured above) Leonard Rowe ’73 with Bauer Adkins
Awarded to a student in preschool through 11th grade. Merit based.
Awarded to a senior who is supportive of school, church, home, and community.
Floyd Bright Families Scholarship
Dowd Sullivan Scholarship
(pictured above) Leslie Floyd, Marvin Bright, and Charlie Floyd with Miranda Luna-Rivera
Awarded to a student in prekindergarten through first grade.
(pictured above) Mary Dowd and Cheng Sullivan with James Cleveland
Awarded to a senior who is a member of a parish affiliated with RCS.
The Dorothy Greeley Meador Scholarship
(pictured above) Karen Meador Mabry ’67 and Mary Pat Meador Metz ’71 with Zoe Classey, Malissa Louis, and Leslie Rodriguez Santos.
Awarded to students in preschool through the 11th grade.
RCS Alumni Association Book Award
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Isabella Thompson and Connor Henretta Awarded by the Roanoke Catholic Alumni Association to every graduating senior of RCS alumni.
Burke Family Honorary Scholarship Travis Burke ’03 and Ryan Burke ’07
Zach Bowyer ’14 Honorary Scholarship
(pictured above) William Burke, Jr. with Hayden Tennies and Yannetsi Machado
(pictured above) Teresa and Rick Bowyer with Riley Whisnant and Grady Whalen
Awarded to a senior with good citizenship and exceptional community service.
Awarded to a Lower School and Upper School Student based on academic achievement and love of the performing arts.
Knights of Columbus #562
(pictured above) Dr. Leon Vinci with Outstanding Scholars Meg Hemphill and Bennett Atienza (pictured below Dr. Leon Vinci with Outstanding Athletes Josiah Banks and Alex Nance
Award of a laptop satchel for outstanding female/male athletes and outstanding female/male scholar.
Edwin L “Butch” Harnack, III Memorial Scholarship
Italian American Heritage Club Scholarship
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Ellie Patel
(pictured above) Nancy Canova and Pauline Corso with Harry Barger
Awarded to a Catholic student in grade K-11 who best exemplifies qualities of support at home, at school, and in the church community.
Eda W. Wynn Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Regina Wynn Williamson ’68 and Ginny Wynn Arrington ’75 with Cia Snow
Awarded to a grade PK-11 student who performs to the best of their ability.
Awarded to a senior with Italian heritage.
Graduate Award
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Ryan Wimbish
Awarded to a senior exemplifying school spirit, leadership, community service, academic performance, and participation in a varsity sport.
Rayfus Parham Honorary Scholarship
Rose Moore Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Patrick Patterson with Jack Greenlees
(pictured above) Maddie Spichek and Luke Ztanze
Awarded to a grade PK-11 student who displays a love of music.
Awarded to a Lower School student and a rising 8th grade student.
Robert Dickard Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Glen Dickard with Bailey Cundiff Awarded to a student with an interest in teaching or political science.
Virginia and Andrew Kramer Memorial Scholarship
(pictured above) Ethan King and Natalie Brochero
Awarded to a rising 8th grade student- based on character.
Ancient Order of Hibernians Scholarships
AOH- Peter Radjou Service Award
AOH- President’s Scholarship
(pictured above)Peter Radjou and Brian Carroll with Jack McIntyre
(pictured above ) Brian Carroll with Brinkley Aaron
Awarded to a student who shows goodness and charitable work.
Awarded to a class president in grades 1-11.
AOH- Joseph R. Donnelly
AOH- Fr. Stephen McNally Scholarship
(pictured above)Brian Carroll with Erin Potter
(pictured above) Brian Carroll with Micaela “Mickie” O’Herron
Awarded to an Irish Catholic student in the Lower School.
Awarded to an Irish Catholic student in the Upper School.
AOH- Bob Lewis Scholarship (pictured left)Brian Carroll with Carson Baker
Awarded to an Irish Catholic student in the Upper School.
RCS Alumni Association Scholarship
(pictured above) Top left: Patrick Patterson with Turner King ’06 and Dawson King. Top Right: Patrick Patterson with Kate Hoopes. Bottom left: Patrick Patterson with Aiden Thompson. Botton right: Patrick Patterson with Anna Grace Kibler.
Awarded by the Roanoke Catholic Alumni Association to children of RCS alumni.
Faculty and Staff Award (pictured right) Miguel Rivera-Muniz , Noah Boucher, and Mmachi Ezigbo
Awarded to a senior who has served RCS and the community with an enthusiastic and generous spirit.
ALUMNI REUNIONS Having the Roanoke Catholic Alumni back on the Hill for reunions, Celtic athletic events, tours, and visits is always great! We thank the Classes of 1963, 1973, and 2003 who planned alumni reunions this year. A committee has formed to plan a mega class reunion in June 2024. If you would like to take part in planning for your class or need to update your contact information to be in the know on the mega reunion and other alumni events, class notes, and happenings, please get in touch with Joanna Coleman, Dean of Advancement, at 540.685.1046 or jcoleman@roanokecatholic.com
Class of 1973- 50th Reunion
Class of 1963- 60th Reunion
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Class of 2003- 20th Reunion
Roanoke Alumni Gathering at Brady’s Distillery Thank you Miri Hunter ’77 for performing.
www.roanokecatholic.com/ alumni
1st Annual RCS Golf Tournament Roanoke Catholic held a golf tournament in support of Celtics athletic programming on Friday, September 22 at Hanging Rock Golf Club. Thank you to everyone who played, volunteered, sponsored, donated raffle items, and helped us spread the word! Please save-the-date for the next golf tournament on Friday, September 20, 2024. More details will be shared soon!
Thank you to our Tournament Sponsors
The Brogan Family in Memory of Tom and Joyce Fleming
SEAN S. FRANCISCO, LPL Financial Advisor- Guidant Investment Group
The Spichek Family in Honor of Maddie Spichek
Jack Clarke The Clarke Practice 1-866-868-1492
Advanced Giving for iGiveCatholic is Open! The Advanced Giving phase for iGiveCatholic is now open! Please consider a gift to Roanoke Catholic in support of the Roanoke Catholic Scholarship Fund to provide tuition assistance for RCS students. This event is our primary drive for support each year. We have received a $40,000 matching gift challenge through the kind generosity of an anonymous donor. Our goal is to raise $100,000 between now and the iGiveCatholic event on Tuesday, November 28, through online support and gifts called in or mailed to the school by the deadline. The Advanced Giving phase for iGiveCatholic donations will remain open through Monday, November 27 at 11:59 PM. Every gift will make a difference for Roanoke Catholic students!
What will it take for them to thrive?
Your help.
MINIMUM DONATION FOR INDIVIDUALS
$500 MAXIMUM ANNUAL DONATION FOR INDIVIDUALS & MARRIED COUPLES
$125k MAXIMUM DONATION FOR BUSINESSES
None Thanks to Virginia’s Education Improvement Scholarship Tax Credits, your contribution to help Roanoke Catholic students is more rewarding than ever. 65% VA TAX CREDIT + STATE & FEDERAL CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS
Donations to Make an investment The Catholic in their future Diocese of Richmond’s that pays off now. McMahon Parater Scholarship Foundation provide scholarships for students from low-income, families to attend one of the 30 Catholic schools in the Diocese. A solid Catholic education provides a foundation for success that will pay out throughout a child’s life. Without these scholarships, many families could not afford this opportunity. But your investment also pays off now.
Individual or business donors receive a 65% Virgina tax credit as well as state and federal deductions for charitable contributions, greatly reducing the true cost of this support. Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Request your Letter of Intent and Preauthorization Form today.
Donor Contribution Virginia Tax Deduction for Charitable Contribution Federal Tax Deduction for Charitable Contribution
65% Virginia Tax Credit
Will you help
make a Roanoke Catholic education available to more students in need? CONTACT JOANNA COLEMAN TODAY AT 540-982-3532 OR JCOLEMAN@ROANOKECATHOLIC.COM
McMahon Parater Scholarship Foundation Visit mcmahonparater.org/EISTC to learn more about this unique investment opportunity.