July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 19 Catholic schools name new administrators for 2018 DesOrmeaux joined Holy serve in his new role. This idea of mission is Several teachers recently High Schools Cross in 2006 as dean of “Holy Cross was very much strengthened with every returned from the University men and head wrestling a part of my formation,” he visit to New Orleans of Holy of Notre Dame, where the coach. He previously was a said. “I can always fall back Cross Brother Joel Giallanza, integration of science and teacher and administrator on the lessons learned.” interim executive director of religion was explored. Eight in St. Bernard Parish for six As an alumnus, he said he’s the Holy Cross Institute at St. teachers and DesOrmeaux years. DesOrmeaux earned witnessed the school’s “one Edward University in Austin, also attended the Interna- his bachelor of science degree family” mission in its current Texas. Brother Joel often dis- tional Society for Technology in secondary education and students, faculty and parents. cusses “the light in all of our and Education (ITSE) confer- social studies at Louisiana This maxim is evident at the faculty.” ence and an AP conference State University and a mas- school’s functions during the “Teachers have to be em- to glean ideas to improve ter’s degree in educational singing of the alma mater, blazoned with that zeal to education for students. These administration from the Uni- where the index finger is find the best means and teachers share with fellow versity of New Orleans. raised in honor of the priests, methods for our students,” teachers what they learned “Because I had a strong brothers and Marianite sisters DesOrmeaux said. Faculty in presentations throughout relationship with the faculty who comprise one family in in-services of the Holy Cross the year. ERIC DESORMEAUX and staff, it was easy to transi- the Congregation of Holy mission and frequent atten- “We are embracing the fact HOLY CROSS tion into this role,” he said. Cross. dance at educational confer- that you hire professionals Eric DesOrmeaux, a 1995 “The staff has been behind “Father Moreau (Blessed ences enhance their knowl- to do a great job, and you graduate of Holy Cross me in what I expect from Basil Moreau who founded edge. See LEADERS page 20 ➤ School, has been named chief them.” the Congregation of Holy school offcer in the school’s Having been back on Holy Cross offcially in 1857) came leadership team restructur- Cross’ campus for 12 years up with an overall concept ing to a one-school model. and experiencing its trans- of mission over method,” he He will direct the “school’s formation and rebuilding said. He believed in educat- curriculum, discipline and after Hurricane Katrina from ing the whole man in mind, teaching teams” in all aca- 400 to 1,000 students and its heart, body and soul, and the demic areas, including prima- relocation to a 21-acre site on congregation has delineated ry, middle and high school Paris Avenue in New Orleans, a clear mission of “who we grades on its two campuses. DesOrmeaux is humbled to are to be.” Don’t worry, Riley, going back to school isn’t all that bad! More than a few tears are shed each year as chil- dren prepare to go back to school – or go to school for the first time. Last year, Riley Blanchard entered pre-K2 at St. Louis King of France in Metairie with some trepidation, as her class photo attests. “Every picture was of her crying,” said Marian Blanchard, Riley’s grandmother. “She cried when she took her bunny pictures; she cried when she took her Santa pictures.” But everything ended well. “Every grand- mother thinks her grand- child is smart, but Riley amazes me!” Blanchard said. Photo | COURTESY MARIAN BLANCHARD Page 20 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans puses. president John Devlin. Rando has initiated inno- for his work in developing LEADERS – Christine Bordelon Rando recently served as vative programs that have religious education across ➤ From PAGE 19 the executive vice president propelled Brother Martin to the curriculum, both at St. give them the tools that they and president of the St. Aloy- even greater success, includ- Charles Catholic and as a na- need,” he said. sius Century Foundation ing advances in classroom tional speaker and presenter. In Holy Cross’ leadership for the 2017-18 school year. and student technology use, Triche has a master’s de- restructuring, Teresa Billings Prior to 2017, Rando served expanded depth of instruc- gree in religious education was named chief mission of- for 11 years as principal and tional curriculum, the sum- from Loyola University New fcer of the school. She was assistant to the president. mer enrichment program, Orleans. He credits Loyola Holy Cross’ middle school Rando’s appointment coin- student ambassadors and for giving him a solid back- principal and director of cides with the 50th anniver- college run, and expanded ground in Catholic theology studies and primary school sary of Brother Martin and campus ministry efforts to and educational philosophy principal. She also is a mem- the 150th anniversary of the evangelize young people, and theory. ber of the Holy Cross Moreau Brothers of the Sacred Heart and to form both students He believes it has served Province Institute Program in New Orleans. He is the frst and faculty in the charism him well as a Catholic educa- Development Committee. alumnus of Brother Martin to of our founder, Father André tor and administrator. DesOrmeaux said the new serve as president. Coindre. He received a bachelor’s GREG RANDO leadership structure – where Rando, who holds a B.M.E. Devlin, whom Rando suc- degree in religion from St. BROTHER MARTIN he basically has assistant degree from Loyola Uni- ceeds as president, completes Joseph Seminary College in principals in place for the Greg Rando, a 1977 gradu- versity New Orleans and a 40 years of educational ser- Covington. It was there he high school, middle school ate of Brother Martin High master’s degree in Catholic vice and leadership at Brother fell in love with the north- and primary school – affords School, has been named School Secondary Adminis- Martin to move into a new shore and formed a deep him time to foat between president for the 2018-19 tration from the University position, executive director sacramental spirituality from the two Holy Cross cam- year, succeeding longtime of San Francisco, has spent of schools, to oversee the ed- his Benedictine spiritual fa- more than 30 years as a ucational and advancement thers at St. Joseph Abbey. teacher and administrator goals of the 10 schools the Triche is married to his while “educating young men Brothers of the Sacred Heart bride of 36 years and has for life” with a passion and operate in its U.S. province. three children. dedication for his alma ma- “I see great things ahead ter. for Pope John Paul II High Prior to teaching at Brother School because it has great Martin, he taught ninth- students and great parents,” grade religion and music ap- Triche said. “With its deep preciation at Mount Carmel roots in the Catholic mis- Academy. In 1984, Rando sion of the church, I believe returned to Elysian Fields its students are ambassadors Avenue, serving as assis- for Christ as advocates of tant director of admissions, his Gospel of love. They are development team member, not the church of the future. alumni director and a mem- They are the young church ber of the faculty. today! In 1990, he was called to “By being the church to- expand his ministry, taking a day, then they will one day DOUGLAS TRICHE graduate from Pope John position as the assistant/asso- POPE JOHN PAUL II ciate director of scholarships Paul II High School with the and recruitment in the Offce Douglas Triche, who has skills they need to transform of Admissions at Loyola Uni- served for the last 20 years the culture and society of versity. Then, he returned to at St. Charles Catholic High ‘me frst’ to the culture and Brother Martin in the fall of School in LaPlace, is the new society of giving life, rather 1992 and has served in vari- president/principal of Pope than taking life, building up ous roles, including director John Paul II High School in rather than tearing down, of admissions, chorus teacher Slidell. uniting rather than breaking and assistant principal for On Sept. 12, 1987, in the apart, healing rather than discipline and attendance. Louisiana Superdome, Triche wounding, learning rather “I am privileged to contin- listened to Pope John Paul II than confusing, and leading ue the work of the Brothers of instruct him and his fellow rather than scattering. the Sacred Heart and their lay Catholic educators to call “As the young church, partners, who began forming young people to be saints in they will do this as Christian young men for good in 1869 the world. married couples and parents, here in New Orleans,” Rando He would later shake the Christian scientists and engi- said. “My goal is to make the hand of the pope, whose neers, Christian nurses and future of our ministry and name is on the high school doctors, Christian lawyers our school even stronger as he is now called to serve. and judges, Christian CEOs we begin our next 150 years Triche served for eight and civic leaders, and as re- of being one of the most pro- years as director of cam- ligious brothers, sisters and found and sacred institutions pus ministry at St. Charles priests.” of education for young men Catholic and then for 12 in the New Orleans area.” years as assistant principal Elementary school In his many years in lead- of academics. leaders, page 21 ership at Brother Martin, Triche is especially known July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 21

tion spans from St. Mar- a 30-year trend. a test score perspective, St. day’s generation of students. LEADERS tin’s Episcopal School, where At De La Salle, Bonura Matthew students score in When you combine 21st cen- ➤ From PAGE 20 he supervised the physical reinstituted and moderated the upper tier comparatively tury learning and the skills education department and the student council, created in the area on standardized of Catholic education, some Elementary Schools taught Louisiana history, to and implemented the crisis tests. I know high schools are real magic can happen.” Brother Martin High School plan, directed the drug-test- excited to get these students – Christine Bordelon (1992-96), where he taught ing program and was upper from St. Matthew.” Louisiana history and world school head basketball coach, He wants to take this ex- history and was junior varsity among other duties. cellent school with a strong coach and assistant basket- “I’ve had 15 years in ad- tradition and build an even ball and baseball coach. ministration,” he said “I stronger culture and com- In 2002, he was hired by his have a reputation of being munity. alma mater (Class of ’86) De personable and building “We want to make St. Mat- La Salle High School, where good cultures. If you look at thew attractive not only he served through 2018 as my background, when I took to the residents of River executive vice president, over athletics at De La Salle, Ridge but also to the people athletic director, director of things were pretty down. Re- throughout Jefferson Parish alumni, director of the Sum- cently, leaving that position, and the River Parishes,” he mer Foundations Program I think we built a culture of said. for incoming students and leaders.” Bonura plans to institute a TONY BONURA ST. MATTHEW THE APOSTLE principal of summer school He’s also an associate with 21st century perspective that and the school’s bus ser- the Institute for School and builds on students’ creativity. SHANNON CULOTTA Tony Bonura brings more vice, and directed activities Parish Development and a “Creativity is an important URSULINE ACADEMY than 25 years of experience and fnances of the Cavalier member of its board. He’s skill to build on,” Bonura Shannon Culotta said the in education to St. Matthew Athletic Club. He also was worked with out-of-state said. “We instilled some of passion for teaching has al- the Apostle. He has a master dance team and cheerleader schools on strategic plan- that at De La Salle and had ways been a part of her life. of education in educational moderator. ning. happier kids. Creativity and She said she would come administration and supervi- Bonura also was assistant While admissions director a collaborative approach to home from attending a half- sion (secondary education) principal of discipline and at De La Salle, Bonura said education are two areas that day kindergarten program and a bachelor of science director of admission proce- he became familiar with St. I can bring here. ... The im- and pretend to be a teacher. in secondary education (in dures and student services. Matthew’s strong academics. portant things to do today, as Now, with 20 years of expe- social studies) from Our Lady During his tenure, he said “It’s a good faculty that pre- a principal, are to blend the rience in Catholic education of Holy Cross College. there was about a 30 percent pares its students very well for timeless nature of education under her belt as a teacher, His experience in educa- enrollment uptick, reversing high school,” he said. “From with the timely needs of to- See LEADERS page 22 ➤ Page 22 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans In the true spirit of Ur- ated Professional Educators cipalship in June, Houin soccer and tennis. LEADERS suline foundress, St. An- of Louisiana (APEL), Houin has been working with her In 2007, Huck was hired ➤ From PAGE 21 gela Merici, Culotta said earned a bachelor’s degree in administrative team to plan by the St. Paul Center for she intends to continue the elementary education and a the 2018-19 school year and Biblical Theology in Steuben- assistant principal and dean legacy of cultivating the de- master’s degree education in collaborating with the com- ville, Ohio, to assist in the of students, she will become velopment of young women. teaching and learning from munity to enhance St. An- training of more than 500 Ursuline Academy’s Elemen- She remains committed to the University of Holy Cross. drew the Apostle’s STEM cur- catechists seeking certifca- tary Head of School. nurturing the uniqueness of She is certifed in elemen- riculum, which will include tion in the “Journey through “To this day, I still get ex- each girl while continuing tary education (grades 1-5); a new, state-of-the-art STEM Scripture” program, a parish- cited and have trouble falling to develop a strong Ursuline early childhood (pre-K3); lab. based curriculum he helped asleep the night before the family. English as a Second Language Houin also completed a to develop. His responsibili- frst day of school,” she said. “I am truly grateful to be (ESL); instructional leader- 2017 Educational Leadership ties included managing the “Education is not simply a a part of the long history ship; and as a reading special- Internship at St. Andrew the center’s mailroom operations profession where you just of Catholic education that ist. Apostle. That summer, she and database of more than show up to work; it’s the distinguishes Ursuline from Houin’s previous posts planned and led professional 14,000 donors. opportunity to be among a any other Catholic school,” include being a first-grade development opportunities Huck relocated to Louisi- school family and grow to- Culotta said. “I plan to lead teacher and leader of teacher for teachers, guided them in ana in 2010, serving for six gether daily in faith.” daily through the words of St. professional development at new teaching strategies and years at Archbishop Hannan Culotta has a bachelor of Angela, ‘Strive to be faithful Gretna No. 2 Advanced Acad- participated in the interview- High School. During that arts in elementary education to that which God has called emy; a frst-grade teacher and ing and hiring process of fac- time he held various posi- and a master of education in you.’” self-contained ESL kinder- ulty and staff for the coming tions: director of campus curriculum and instruction. – Christine Bordelon garten teacher at Woodland year. ministry, director of summer For the past year, she has West Elementary School in “As an educator, I strive programs, theology depart- been Ursuline Academy’s Harvey, where she taught to create an environment ment chair, theology teacher, elementary dean of students. a student population that where children love to learn,” assistant men’s soccer coach As a mother of two sons, she included English language Houin said. “I am grateful to and head coach for men’s and said she is blessed to be able learners, the deaf and the be named principal of St. women’s tennis. to call her students “daugh- hard of hearing; a frst-grade Andrew the Apostle, where He was awarded Archbish- ters.” Culotta said working at teacher at Alice M. Harte teachers love to teach, stu- op Hannan’s “Teacher of the Ursuline Academy has truly Charter School in Algiers, dents love to learn, and par- Year” award for 2011-12. been a fulflling experience where she helped main- ents play an important role Prior to assuming his cur- because she works alongside stream students with special in their children’s education. rent role as principal of St. a community of dedicated needs into general education “I hope to continue this part- Benilde, Huck served for teachers. She enjoys being at classrooms; and a ffth-grade nership with faculty, staff, two years as the assistant a Catholic school. math teacher at Luling Ele- and parents as together, we principal of curriculum and “It is faith, a desire to serve mentary, where she prepared cultivate a Catholic environ- instruction at St. Michael the others and a dedicated com- students for the Integrated ment where students grow Archangel High School in Ba- munity of teachers and stu- KATHERINE HOUIN Louisiana Educational Assess- academically and spiritually.” ton Rouge. His tasks included dents that continue to inspire ST. ANDREW THE APOSTLE ment Program (iLeap), pro- – Beth Donze coordinating the professional my calling,” Culotta said. duced model math lessons development of nearly 50 “To be in an environment Katherine Houin comes with fellow faculty members teachers, supervising cam- with children and faculty in on board as principal of St. and served as a peer mentor pus ministry, department which we can pray and grow Andrew the Apostle School of those lessons to teachers chairs and new teachers, and together is the best part of in New Orleans – her el- throughout the district. overseeing lesson planning, being in Catholic education.” ementary school alma mater Houin began transitioning curriculum implementation She anticipates that the – with eight years of teaching into her new role at St. An- and teacher evaluations. most rewarding part of this experience in a variety of drew the Apostle in January, Huck holds a bachelor’s year will be watching the girls classroom settings spanning working alongside outgoing degree in secondary educa- grow spiritually, academically grades K-5. principal Patience Clasen. tion from Mississippi State and emotionally. A member of the Associ- Since assuming the prin- University in Starkville, and two master’s degrees: one in theology and Christian ministry from The Franciscan University of Steubenville; THOMAS HUCK the other in educational lead- ST. BENILDE ership from the University of Holy Cross. Thomas Huck, the new “I am extremely excited principal of St. Benilde and grateful to serve the School in Metairie, began St. Benilde community for his career in education in this upcoming school year 2003 as a junior high and as we celebrate the school’s high school teacher in the 50th anniversary,” Huck public school system in his said. “As principal, it is my native Picayune, Mississippi, primary goal to promote teaching social studies and and create opportunities for technology, exceptional/ the students of St. Benilde special education courses to to encounter Christ in one students with moderate to another, in our community severe learning disabilities, and coaching swimming, See LEADERS page 23 ➤ July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 23

seventh- and eighth-grade served for 12 years as an ad- education and develop into sus and making Jesus known LEADERS math teacher, student coun- ministrator at John Quincy true disciples of their faith by to others.” ➤ From PAGE 22 cil moderator and math club Adams Middle School in Me- knowing Jesus, following Je- – Beth Donze and in the sacraments.” sponsor at St. Edward the tairie, initially as the school’s – Beth Donze Confessor Elementary School dean of student services, and HIGHLIGHTS OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN U.S. in Metairie. After a seven- later as its assistant principal. ➤ year hiatus from teaching to Mahl, a graduate of the Sts. Total Catholic school student enrollment for the current aca- pursue a career as a savings Peter and Paul School and the demic year is 1,835,376; non-Catholic enrollment is 349,139 administration manager at Academy of the Holy Angels which is 19.0% of the total enrollment. a local bank, Mahl returned in New Orleans, earned a ➤ There are 6,352 Catholic schools: 5,158 elementary; 1,194 to the school setting and bachelor’s degree in elemen- secondary. worked at Chalmette High tary education/special educa- – Source, National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) for more than a decade as tion and a master’s degree in a remediation teacher, in- educational administration school GED teacher and at the University of New cheerleader moderator. Orleans. From 2000-05, Mahl was “As principal of Our Lady assistant principal at N.P. of Perpetual Help School, I Trist Middle School in Chal- aspire to educate the whole mette, spending each ensu- child by supporting our staff GINA MAHL ing summer as the principal as they guide students in the OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP, KENNER of St. Bernard Parish’s sum- development of both mind Gina Mahl has worked for mer school, which served and spirit,” Mahl said. “I look 30 years as an educator and about 500 students in grades forward to working with stu- brings more than 17 years of 3-8. Mahl also spent the sum- dents, parents, teachers and educational leadership ex- mer of 2008 as the summer staff to create an educational perience and seven years of school principal and supervi- community that encour- fnance management to her sor of summer LEAP testing ages and inspires children to new position as principal of at Roosevelt Middle School learn. Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Kenner. “My greatest reward is School in Kenner. Before being named to her knowing I will be instrumen- Mahl began her teach- new role as principal of Our tal in helping our students ac- ing career in 1980 as the Lady of Perpetual Help, Mahl quire an excellent academic Page 24 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans Students don’t have to sit still in desks to learn By Christine Bordelon ers – Cindi Johnson, who Clarion Herald has been at Holy Rosary since Learning differences in 2009, and Lindy Denham children, when addressed who has more than 20 years early, can make the difference and is certifed in Montessori in a child’s future educational teaching – lead the Montes- success. sori team. Holy Rosary School Up- They are assisted by Col- town, a school designed to leen Judge, a former Holy address the needs of students Rosary student. with learning diffculties, is Principal Cheryl Orillion opening its doors to even said parents of preschool younger students this year children who have had an with a new Montessori-based applied behavior analysis Early Childhood Education (ABA) have sought her help program for potty-trained in fnding a school since she pre-K4 and kindergarten stu- has been principal the past dents ages 3 to 5. two years. Two experienced early “Because of my experience childhood education teach- with Montessori (15 years

Photo by Christine Bordelon | CLARION HERALD Certified Early Childhood elementary educator Cindi Johnson watches a child use math manipulatives at Holy Rosary.

at Sacred Heart of Jesus in child is gifted and a gift to “One of the things I think Norco), we knew we could the teacher. Founder Maria (will help is that) the child help many kids on the (au- Montessori emphasized not is actually connecting and tism) spectrum with hands- forgetting the simple things understanding at a higher on Montessori instruction,” in education because it is order of thinking from the Orillion said. “We could see the simple things that build hand to the brain and back to the difference in kids with se- and let the child learn bigger the hand in writing it,” John- vere learning disorders. They things, Orillion said. son said. “I can see what the were able to function in the older kids are missing – that classroom when they moved Let the child lead hands-on approach that con- on from Montessori.” “The child teaches us how nects to learning, especially Montessori learning is they learn, and every child is those kids on the (autism) child-initiated and adheres different and unique,” Den- spectrum.” to the philosophy that every ham said. See HOLY ROSARY page 25 ➤ July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 25 and knowledgeable teach- Katrina, the school returned HOLY ROSARY ers and grant money from to Holy Rosary Parish on Es- ➤ From PAGE 24 the Greater Protestant Or- planade Avenue. The move to Students develop self-disci- phanage Association to buy its current Uptown campus pline and independence with Montessori materials, music was made in 2012. purpose, safety and responsi- instruments, programs on Teachers in other grades, bility and build a foundation iPads, sensory materials, etc., such as Anna Talley who for the real world through six made the program possible. teaches third and fourth program components: practi- “The children are learning grade, said Montessori math cal life skills (pouring, mea- visual and tactile discrimina- manipulatives benefit stu- suring, matching), sensorial, tion,” Johnson said. “They dents with sensory needs. math and geometry, science are learning to perceive dif- “I think it will help them and reading. They complete ferences and developing immensely to visualize and tasks at their own speed and finer and finer perception, make sense of it, not just build classroom skills under which allows them to have memorizing it rotely, but the eye of a facilitator. intelligence about the world understanding the concepts,” “The children have an in- Photo by Christine Bordelon | CLARION HERALD around them. They are learn- she said. nate interest to learn,” Den- Certified Montessori assistant teacher Lindy Denham and assistant Colleen ing height, depth, width, “Difficulty doesn’t go ham said, and learning be- Judge watch as a child learns through sensory play. length, color, texture, sound, away,” Orillion said. “We gins the minute they walk in box, so Montessori is the per- child,” she said. “Some may pressure, and it teaches them try to build on skills … the the classroom. “It’s through fect program,” Orillion said. not be ready for a full day … independence because it same hands-on skills they working with their hands She hopes this curriculum, We will deal with a child’s teaches them how to care need (in the preschool). We that they are learning.” started at a young age, will individual needs.” for themselves and the world want these materials to help Children are allowed to make it easier in later years Already in place at Holy around them.” the students in second, third make mistakes and self-cor- for children with learning Rosary is a sensory room Holy Rosary Academy frst and fourth grade … and make rect. “They fgure out how to differences because develop- where students can learn by opened in 1996 to help mid- school easier for them.” do it and do it until they get mental skills will be in place. touching and feeling objects. dle-school boys with learn- Holy Rosary is located at it right,” Orillion said. “Kids She said the program would An Imagination Playground ing challenges. Girls were 2437 Jena St. in New Orleans. are so engrossed in what they start off small – fewer than 10 with large foam blocks will added in 2000. High school Call 482-7173 or visit http:// are doing … that they don’t students in the frst year with be incorporated. acceptance began in 2005 www.holyrosarynola.org. realize they are learning math fexible days and times. on the former campus of St. Christine Bordelon can be skills or English skills.” “We will keep the numbers Sensory learning Lawrence the Martyr School reached at cbordelon@clarion “You can’t put kids in a low to ensure we can help a Orillion said experienced in Metairie. After Hurricane herald.org. Page 26 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans AT A GLANCE: NEW ORLEANS CATHOLIC SCHOOLS’ 2018 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI The following Distinguished Alumni from Catholic schools were selected by their respective schools. This was the inaugural award ceremony. It will be- come an annual event, sponsored by the archdiocesan Office of Catholic Schools. Read the story beginning on page 27.

➤ U.S. Appeals Court Judge Amy Coney Barrett, St. Mary’s Dominican High ➤ Aimee Boudreaux Maclver, St. Scholastica Academy (1996), theology instruc- School (1990), U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit and Notre Dame law tor at St. Scholastica professor ➤ Tamiko Massey-Haynes, St. Mary’s Academy (1989), academic advisor at St. ➤ Andrew J. Bourgeois, Holy Rosary High School (2010), environmental ser- Mary’s Academy vices, Ochsner Fitness Center ➤ Diana Ford McClain, St. Cletus School (2002), CYO coordinator, CCD volun- ➤ Brandon Briscoe, Jesuit High School (1998), attorney with Flanagan Partners teer and substitute teacher LLP ➤ Liz McKee, St. Peter School, Covington (1971), first-grade teacher ➤ Kevin J. Centanni, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, Kenner (1974), Justice ➤ Lisa Oncale, Visitation of Our Lady School (1977), volunteer of the Peace, 6th Judicial Court ➤ Ronnie Osmer, St. Margaret Mary School (2014), graduate of Pope John Paul ➤ Rep. Patrick Connick, Immaculate Conception School (1978), Louisiana state II High School and subject of “Racer Ronnie” series of children’s books. representative and attorney ➤ The late Father Nicholas Pericone (1976), Our Lady of Lourdes School, ➤ Suzie Dardis Daly, Holy Name of Jesus School (1987), homemaker and former Slidell, late priest of the Archdiocese of New Orleans (award accepted by John teacher Pericone) ➤ Ray Davis, Archbishop Shaw High School (1982), financial advisor ➤ Ronald Rodrigue, St. Charles Borromeo School (1978), parish administrator ➤ Artie J. DeLaneuville, Sacred Heart of Jesus School, Norco (1978), U.S. De- ➤ Megan Ryder Sannino, St. Dominic School (1993), volunteer and parent partment of Health and Human Services, special agent in charge ➤ U.S. Rep. Steve J. Scalise, Archbishop Rummel High School (1983), U.S. House ➤ Ann DeRouen, St. Pius X School (1977), retired teacher Majority Whip ➤ Richard Fontaine, Pope John Paul II High School (1993), foreign relations ➤ Father Gerald Seiler, St. Angela Merici School (1976), pastor of St. Edward advisor the Confessor Parish ➤ Jacob A. Giardina, St. Charles Catholic High School (1955), CEO of Cameo ➤ Anne “Kit” Carriere Stumm, Academy of the Sacred Heart (1972), philan- Industries, created important piece of machinery in sugarcane harvesting thropist and business owner, Felipe’s Restaurant and Pinkberry Frozen Yogurt ➤ Jack Jensen, Holy Cross High School (1974), owner of The Jensen Companies ➤ The late Stephen Stumpf (1967), De La Salle High School), chairman of Durr ➤ Denise Simoneaux Kirsch, St. Philip Neri School (1989), coordinator of reli- Heavy Construction (award accepted by Donna Durr Stumpf) gious education ➤ Wendy Baldwin Vitter, St. Francis Xavier School (1975), legal counsel for the ➤ Nancy Amato Konrad, Ursuline Academy (1959), philanthropist Archdiocese of New Orleans ➤ Yvette Vezina Lacour, Archbishop Chapelle High School (1985), Notre Dame ➤ Macie Weaver, Academy of Our Lady (2015), University of Louisiana student Seminary development director ➤ Debbie Beckman Wolff, St. Catherine of Siena School (1980), pre-K3 teacher ➤ Joseph P. Lopinto, St. Christopher School (1990), sheriff of Jefferson Parish ➤ Father Kurt Young, St. Edward the Confessor School (2001), director of voca- ➤ Gina Lorio, St. Ann School (1981), executive director of GNO Miracle League tions for the Archdiocese of New Orleans July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 27 The adundant blessings of a Catholic school education By Peter Finney Jr. year have credited their suc- Clarion Herald cess to their families and to their faith, which includes Catholic schools are not their experiences in Catho- an assembly line, but at a lic schools. I’m grateful that Metairie restaurant recently, your families chose Catholic all eyes were focused on the education for you, and I’m end product – a man or a grateful that they had faith woman whose life had been in our Catholic schools.” changed by attending Catho- lic schools. People serving others The archdiocesan Offce of Archbishop Aymond said Catholic Schools hosted its the award winners have made first Distinguished Alumni their Catholic education the Award ceremony in May, foundation of their lives to honoring 34 Catholic school help others. graduates nominated for the “During confirmation inaugural honor by their re- once, someone asked me, spective schools. ‘How many people does it “These are individuals who take to change the world?’ have done extraordinary and a couple of months later, things in both their per- I came up with the answer,” sonal and professional lives,” Archbishop Aymond said. “It said Dr. RaeNell Houston, takes one – one at a time. We superintendent of Catholic change hearts and we change schools, who joined Arch- the world one at a time. We bishop Gregory Aymond in thank you for being part of presenting the award certif- Catholic education and rep- cates. “Nearly all of the Cath- Photo by Peter Finney Jr. | CLARION HERALD resenting Catholic education olic school alumni whom I Liz McKee, second from left, was designated by St. Peter School in Covington as its 2018 Distinguished Catholic by your life and by the way have spoken to over the last School Alumni Award winner. McKee has taught at her alma mater for 40 years, and her mother taught there as well. See LEGACY page 28 ➤ Page 28 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans LEGACY ➤ From PAGE 27 in which you serve others.” Since this was a frst-time event, associate superinten- dent Jane Baker said she ex- pects it to grow next year as word spreads about the hon- or among the 80 archdioc- esan Catholic schools. The criteria for the award nominee was simple: Select a graduate of a Catholic el- ementary or high school who had “positively impacted our church and our community” and, in some instances, the nation. Variety of careers, ministries The award winners ranged widely in age, occupation and vocation. They included three priests – Father Gerald Seiler, a 1976 graduate of St. Angela Merici School; Father Kurt Young, a 2001 graduate of St. Edward the Confessor School; and Father Nicholas Pericone, a 1976 graduate of Our Lady of Lourdes School Photo by Peter Finney Jr. | CLARION HERALD in Slidell, who died recently. Archbishop Gregory Aymond said he often reflects on how many people it would take to “change the world.” After much prayer, he said it takes one They also included recent person – “one at a time.” He praised the distinguished Catholic school graduates for sharing their love of God with others. graduates, such as Ronnie inspired by your dedication a frst-grade teacher at her McKee distinctly remembers and jumping rope with the Osmer, a member of Pope to living the Gospel teach- John Paul II High School’s alma mater for 40 years. the nun decorating a bulletin fourth graders at recess while ing in your lives. You are Class of 2018, and men and “I’m not amused – I get that board with a chart consisting in her full habit. great examples to our current women who went on to teach from the Benedictine nuns,” of three large pictures: one of “You saw faces and hands students, those who make in Catholic schools or who McKee said, smiling about be- heaven, one of purgatory and – that’s all you ever saw,” up the young church in the now serve as school or parish ing singled out for the award. one of hell. McKee said. “You never knew Archdiocese of New Orleans.” volunteers. “It’s for God’s glory, not for “If you misbehaved in her there were any other parts “You are amazing people, Catholic schools in her blood your own. That’s how I was classroom, she’d walk over to her body. I loved it. The and I feel privileged to be in The recipients reveled in raised.” to the board and say, ‘Where Benedictine nuns were strict, the room with you today,” sharing their Catholic school McKee’s connection with do you want to be?’” McKee but you knew they loved you, Houston told the award re- memories even as they reluc- St. Peter School goes back to said, laughing. “We were very and if you had a problem, cipients. “I am inspired by tantly accepted the recogni- her mom, who began teach- good in her class.” they were there for you. you, your lives and your tion. Liz McKee, who gradu- ing there in the early 1960s. In her own childhood, “Catholic school is defi- example, by your love for ated from St. Peter School in When she was a frst grader in McKee remembers Benedic- nitely worth it because you God and for our church. I am Covington in 1971, has been Sister Scholastica’s classroom, tine Sister Gregory dancing See LEGACY page 29 ➤ July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 29 plifed everything,” Father LEGACY Seiler said. “It was having re- ➤ From PAGE 28 ligion class every day, learn- can teach the whole child, ing your faith formally in not just one side. We try to the classroom, weekly Mass, put that faith in them. With- participation in confession, out that, we have nothing.” the sacramental life. McKee says she gets a thrill “That all reinforced what when “the light bulb goes you got at home from your off” and her frst graders start family. There were a lot of to read. “It just changes their other families doing the world because then, they same thing, which reinforces can’t get enough to read,” everything. You felt like you she said. “They’re sitting at were part of a community their desks and I’m trying to – you weren’t just going to teach and they’re pulling out school to get an education their library books.” but were part of something much bigger, geared toward A foundation for life God and the community.” Brandon Briscoe, a 1998 graduate of Jesuit High Photo by Peter Finney Jr. | CLARION HERALD Great examples of the faith School who is an attorney Attorney Brandon Briscoe, left, a 1998 graduate of Jesuit High School, says his Catholic education – and faith – are Father Young said he still with Flanagan Partners LLP, being passed on to his children. remembers the lesson he learned from longtime St. said his Jesuit education not grew up with nothing (about he really lamented that he of St. Edward the Confessor Edward the Confessor princi- only prepared him for his le- the Catholic faith),” Briscoe couldn’t pass it on to his chil- Parish, recalled how he was pal Sister of the Living Word gal career but also gave him a said. “He didn’t even have dren. So, it’s not just for my one of 120 altar boys at St. Mary de Lourdes Charbonnet deeper understanding of his the basics of prayer or how beneft, but it’s for my fam- Angela Merici in the 1970s. and Sister Julia Stump. faith so that he could pass to have a relationship with ily’s beneft, as well, and I’m He would ride his bike two “Having the sisters in the that on to his three young God or even the beginnings excited for the opportunities miles to serve the 6:15 a.m. school made a huge impact children. of a faith life. So, from the that my children will have to Mass. on me,” Father Young said. “I remember in law school very earliest age, because of get that foundation.” a friend telling me that his Catholic education, I’ve had “In addition to the educa- “Sister Mary de Lourdes was dad was Catholic and his that as an important part of Imbued with spiritual values tion itself being excellent, just a very faithful sister who mother was Jewish, so he my life. My friend told me Father Seiler, the pastor the spiritual values exem- See LEGACY page 30 ➤ Page 30 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans phen Stumpf, a 1967 gradu- appropriate that he is our role. She still remembers back to my school.” LEGACY ate, who died earlier this frst honoree at this event.” her favorite English teacher Supported in her illness ➤ From PAGE 29 year. Stumpf owned a suc- – Nellie Schott – who is a St. Followed mom’s footsteps The honor was doubly really loved the Lord. I think cessful construction frm and Dominic parishioner today. was a member of the school’s Megan Ryder Sannino, a “I just love putting all of special to Tamiko Massey- her vocation, in a way, in- 1993 graduate of St. Domi- Haynes, a 1989 graduate fuenced me to consider the board of trustees and a major my Catholic education into donor who helped transform nic School, is carrying on the service of my school and of St. Mary’s Academy who priesthood. That’s the im- a family legacy of parental now works as an academic pact she had on me.” the school’s library. my church,” Sannino said. “He’s going to be missed, involvement. Her grand- “St. Dominic really instilled advisor at the school. She Stumpf’s legacy lives on but he lives on through the mother, Clare Landry, was in me a sense of family and was recently diagnosed with In addition to Father Peri- monies that he and (his president of the St. Dominic community, and that’s what cancer and said she had been cone, who was honored wife) Donna provided,” De Mothers’ Club 46 years ago, I really love about it. Every- supported in prayer by the posthumously, De La Salle La Salle president Michael and Sannino recently fin- body here is family. That’s Sisters of the Holy Family, High School nominated Ste- Giambelluca said. “It’s very ished her term in the same what I love about giving her fellow teachers and the students. “My faith means a lot to me, especially since I was diagnosed with cancer,” she said. “The sisters have just welcomed me even more. I feel their prayers.” Massey-Haynes, whose daughter attends St. Mary’s, said she draws on her own experience in high school whenever she has to give guidance to a current stu- dent. “I try to tell the students what I wanted to hear at that age, what I needed to hear at that age,” she said. Massey-Haynes said the loving discipline of the Sisters of the Holy Family molded her future. “I didn’t look at their strictness as meanness,” she said. “I looked at their strictness as love, because my mom was just like that. Whatever I couldn’t do at home, I couldn’t do at school. “Once my mom came to school and I was thinking, ‘What are you doing here?’ And she said, ‘Don’t you worry why I’m here.’ I didn’t worry, because I didn’t do anything bad at school be- cause I couldn’t do that. I had better not. But I knew I didn’t have to worry about it.” Passing it on Briscoe said he and his wife Sarah Jane know that their three small children will be attending Catholic school. It is more than worth the investment, he said. “It’s priceless, the value of a Catholic education,” Briscoe said. “It certainly has been in my life.” Peter Finney Jr. can be reached at pfinney@clarion herald.org. July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 31 St. Charles Catholic student gets a taste of the law By Christine Bordelon importance of the American Mock trial problem tackled Clarion Herald legal system and the role In one component of the it plays in developing and Suit Up program, students Over three weeks in June, maintaining our society?” were presented with a mock rising St. Charles Catholic trial problem and prepared senior Alyssa Portillo got her Surprise each day a legal writing assignment Portillo said she even shad- interest in law piqued by at- and oral argument to present tending the 2018 Louisiana owed those who hire attor- neys as well as Civil District before a judges’ panel. The State Bar Association’s “Suit assignment was to prepare a Up for the Future” summer Court Judge Piper Griffin, who didn’t have a trial that motion for a change of venue program for rising 11th and for a trial in a small town, 12th graders. Her session’s day. “So, the judge sent us down providing legal memoranda focus was “Strengthening to domestic court,” Portillo supporting their argument. Diversity in the Legal Profes- said. “We got to sit in on Portillo said Suit Up partici- sion.” child-support hearings and pants were given a fact pat- During the legal institute, divorce hearings. It was very tern about what happened operated from the Louisiana emotional.” in a case. She was selected Bar Center in New Orleans The judge discussed each for the prosecution’s side, in cooperation with Just the case and asked Suit Up par- which filed a motion to deny Beginning and the Louisiana ticipants their opinions. See LAW page 33 ➤ Bar Foundation, Portillo was exposed to the legal system from all angles. Portillo, who is Hispanic, attended a mini-law school session; learned about the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT); toured Criminal Court, the Public Defender’s Offce, the District Attorney’s Offce and the Louisiana State Supreme Court; and heard mock oral arguments by law students representing Uber and taxi cab drivers. She also shadowed lawyers and judges Photo | COURTESY ALYSSA PORTILLO to discover the diversity of Alyssa Portillo, a rising senior at St. Charles Catholic High School in LaPlace, the profession. got a bird’s-eye view of the legal system through a summer program. She is Portillo gleaned what law pictured with Orleans Parish Civil District Court Judge Bernadette D’Souza. schools look for in applicants when she talked to admis- legal principles by studying developing their analytical, sions counselors at Tulane precedent-setting cases and critical thinking, writing and University and Loyola Uni- more. He also teaches a law speaking skills. versity law schools. and morality honors course To be among the 24 par- “We had talks from differ- that introduces students ticipants in Suit Up, Portillo ent law professors, and we to real-world moral issues wrote and submitted a 500- got to shadow attorneys,” in American society while word essay on “What is the she said. “I loved it. I really enjoyed it. I would give it a 10 out of 10. It was really interesting. I met a lot of law- yers, and they told us about their personal experiences in law school and were really encouraging.” Teacher found course Retired lawyer Ron Courtade, Portillo’s former religion teacher who will teach a law course Portillo will take this coming year, informed her about the pro- gram. At St. Charles Catholic, Courtade teaches a law stud- ies course that surveys U.S. and Louisiana law so students learn practical applications of Page 32 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans iliary visitor, said the cel- BROTHERS ebrations, which have been ➤ From PAGE 1 planned since summer 2017, are meant to unite the diverse brothers from the San Francis- history of the San Francisco- co New Orleans District and New Orleans (SFNO) District. Rome are expected to attend. The district encompasses A second celebratory Mass more than 115 De La Salle at St. Mary’s Cathedral in San Christian Brothers, 1,400- Francisco – commemorating plus Lasallian partners (lay the 150th anniversary of teachers committed to the the Christian Brothers’ ar- Lasallian charism) and oper- rival there – will be offered ates 21 middle, secondary on March 16, 2019. There and post-secondary schools also are celebrations set in in Arizona, California, Colo- Rheims, France, Rome and rado, Louisiana, New Mexico, at other Lasallian schools Oregon, Texas, Washington worldwide, culminating April and Tijuana, Mexico. 7, the 300th anniversary of “We’ve survived that last St. John Baptist de La Salle’s 100 years in Louisiana, and death. our extended family of broth- Christian Brother James ers and lay people have the Joost, chairman of the plan- opportunity to celebrate all Photo | PROVIDED BY BROTHERS OF CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS ning committee and aux- things that have allowed us A graphic depicting the various places where the Brothers of Christian Schools have ministries in the United States. Shown in Louisiana, Lasallian ministries are at Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie, De La Salle High School in New Orleans, St. Paul’s School and the Brother Charles Crouzet Community in Covington, and Christian Brothers School for middle school boys in City Park and its coeducational campus at St. Anthony of Padua on Canal Street. to be around (that long),” Pioneer spirit of brothers traveled by coach and on foot said Christian Brother David Brother David explained for six weeks to their fnal Sinitiere, the last provincial how the Christian Brothers’ destination of Santa Fe. of the New Orleans-Santa expansion in the American The brothers were sent to Fe district, which merged in southwest was its humble teach at St. Michael’s High 2014 to become San Fran- beginnings here. School. They arrived early cisco-New Orleans district. and slept on mattresses on a Brother David is a former Santa Fe Archbishop Jean- dirt foor in the building that elected member of the Loui- Baptiste Lamy, who came to would serve as the school siana State Board of Educa- the new U.S. territory of New building, which Brother tion representing the Second Mexico from France to estab- Hilarian described as “an Congressional District. lish Catholic churches and adobe hut with four walls.” In Louisiana, about 20 schools, recognized the need “According to the con- Christian Brothers are affli- to educate a native people tract signed with Archbishop ated with Archbishop Rum- who were largely illiterate Lamy, the Brothers would be mel High School in Metairie, and ignorant of the Catholic paid $800 a year, and would Christian Brothers Schools religion they practiced. also be provided with “a (City Park and Canal Street On Aug. 17, 1859, four breakfast of bread, meat and campuses) and De La Salle Christian Brothers – Hilarian, coffee; and dinner of bread, High School in New Orleans Gondulph, Germanius and meat, vegetables, dessert and and St. Paul’s School in Cov- Galmier Joseph – arrived in occasionally wine.” ington. New York from France and See BROTHERS page 33 ➤ July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 33

Board of Education member. volved in running, not only Christian Brothers School is a continued challenge to BROTHERS St. Michael’s educational our schools, but in helping now educates 830 students be creative while remain- ➤ From PAGE 32 excellence drew notice from public schools.” on two campuses. Pre-K ing faithful to its origin, The school opened on Dec. U.S. Presidents Rutherford B. Huge impact in New Orleans through fourth-grade boys Brother David said. “We have 22, 1859. It expanded after Hayes, who visited in 1880, and girls, as well as middle done that by assessing needs and Teddy Roosevelt, who The Christian Brothers, be- school girls, take classes at throughout our history, in or- the 1870 arrival of Brother ing French, looked to expand Peter Schneider, known as visited in 1903. When New the Canal Street campus; der to continue responding, Mexico held a constitutional from New Mexico to other while middle school boys to the appeals of the Lord, Brother Botulph, its direc- French-speaking states. tor for 36 years. His impact, convention in 1910 to estab- attend the school’s original the church and the world, in “That’s how we got into not only at St. Michael’s but lish statehood, 22 graduates City Park campus. In keeping order to procure the glory of New Orleans,” Brother David in public schools, was as a of St. Michael’s High were with its Lasallian mission, God!” said. teacher, inspector of schools, among the 100 delegates. 12 percent of students share “It’s not about where we’ve The brothers frst taught in visitor for the west, master of “It’s so important to un- over $300,000 in financial been or how we are, but how New Orleans from 1851-1900 novices, a superior, builder, derstand the infuence of the aid. we move forward,” Brother at St. Joseph’s Commercial procurator, member of the founding Christian Brothers Brother David credited the James said. “The spirit of the Academy on Tulane Avenue Governor’s Building Com- and how they established the longevity of the Christian Brothers is alive. … The good and helped the Dominican mittee, superintendent of Santa Fe District,” Brother Brothers to adapting to the works of the Brothers live on Sisters who were running a schools for the County of David said. “Throughout in the Brothers and lay part- school at St. John the Baptist evolving educational needs Santa Fe Offce and territorial our history, we have been in- Parish (the gold-dome church of its students in its 338- ners who are leaders in our on Oretha Castle Haley Bou- year history while remaining schools.” you get into law school and levard). faithful to its original charism Christine Bordelon can be to help the disadvantaged. LAW help you get scholarships to Following the devastating reached at cbordelon@clarion ➤ From PAGE 31 law school.” effect of yellow fever, they “The life of an institute herald.org. the change of venue. This fall, she’s looking withdrew and didn’t return Portillo thought Suit Up forward to taking one of to the area until 1918 to take did a good job of exposing Courtade’s Law and Moral- over St. Paul’s School from her to the feld of law. ity Honors classes because the Benedictine monks at St. “Several attorneys and he attempts to “challenge Joseph Abbey (in 1911). They judges said we are a step students to go beyond the let- opened St. Peter’s College (a ahead of them when they ter of the law and learn how high school) in New Iberia in were our age because it ex- to apply the law to real-life 1918. posed us to so much,” she situations to make a better “At its zenith, St. Paul’s had said. “It was hands-on learn- world.” 300 boarders,” Brother David ing that I couldn’t have “Maybe I will learn a little said. It now has 23 buildings learned on my own.” more in-depth about the including five apartments The experience solidifed law,” she said. and two homes to house fac- her decision to become a The honors student, who ulty and offce space spread lawyer. fnished seventh in her junior over 50 acres in Covington. “I didn’t know anything class, plans to attend the The opening of De La Salle about the legal career path,” University of Louisiana in La- High School in 1949 on St. Portillo said. “This program fayette for her undergraduate Charles Avenue marked the could have persuaded me to degree, possibly in political Christian Brothers’ return either not be an attorney or science and Spanish, in 2019, to the city of New Orleans. be an attorney. You have to and then earn a law degree, In 1960, Christian Brothers be really passionate about a possibly at Loyola Law School School in City Park opened legal career and to keep your in New Orleans. for middle-school boys. grades up in high school, un- Christine Bordelon can be “We wanted to get back dergraduate and law school. reached at cbordelon@clarion into the city that was part of Undergrad (studies) can help herald.org. our history,” he said. Page 34 | CLARION HERALD BACK TO SCHOOL July 21, 2018 | New Orleans We must invest in tomorrow’s Catholic leaders today atholics in the United them. Most of these well- needs to get involved in States have excelled in formed pastoral leaders are conversations about helping If Hispanic Cdeveloping amazing white, Euro-American. Hispanics to become better structures and resources for Hosffman For half a century, major educated. Catholics fnish high pastoral leadership formation OSPINO demographic and cultural If Hispanic Catholics fn- school and attain at all levels in seminaries, GUEST COLUMN transformations have been ish high school and attain houses of formation, colleges reshaping the U.S. Catholic college degrees, the pool college degrees, the and universities, pastoral experience. Cultural diversity of potential well-qualified institutes, online programs text within which we build is the order of the day. In pastoral leaders will increase pool of potential and catechetical formation faith communities, the im- less than two decades, most dramatically. well-qualifed initiatives, among others. portance given by our society Catholics in the country will This means that more His- After visiting Catholic com- to education and professional self-identify as Hispanic. panics will be in better posi- pastoral leaders munities in several parts of training, and the access to Many parts of the country tion to enter seminaries to will increase the world, I get the sense that countless resources for educa- are already there. discern a vocation to the no other nation has as many tion. It is not far-fetched to an- priesthood. dramatically. highly educated and well- However, a large contin- ticipate that a large number, There will likely be larger United States has developed qualified Catholic pastoral gent of highly qualifed pas- if not most Catholic pastoral numbers of Hispanics enter- for the formation of pastoral leaders as we do in the U.S. toral leaders is not something leaders in the near future will ing formation programs to leaders at the service of His- This refects, in many ways, that happens overnight. It come from Hispanic com- discern vocations to religious panic Catholics: seminaries, the social and cultural con- took decades to educate munities. How much are we life, lay ecclesial ministry, the houses of formation, colleges investing in those leaders and permanent diaconate and and universities, pastoral their communities? other forms of professional institutes, online programs Now is the time to form pastoral service in the church and catechetical formation the pastoral leaders who will and in the larger society. It initiatives, among others. be leading the church’s evan- will take decades of com- We need to build more gelization efforts in our land mitment and investment to of these institutions in the tomorrow. We want them make this happen. geographical regions where to be also as well-qualifed At the same time, we need Hispanics are largely concen- as those with whom we are the Hispanics who currently trated, particularly the South most familiar. That means self-identify as Catholic to and the West. that we need to invest seri- remain so. We defnitely need the best ously in their formation. This means that we must possible resources to form The conversation about accompany these Catholic these pastoral leaders now, in the pastoral formation of women and men through English and Spanish, and in Hispanic Catholics goes processes of faith forma- other languages, to lead the hand-in-hand with ques- tion, creating welcoming way building strong Catholic tions of educational attain- spaces for them to grow in faith communities during the ment. About 18 percent of their relationship with Jesus rest of the 21st century. Hispanics in the U.S. have a Christ, and provide them Let us invest in tomorrow’s college degree, compared to with resources that affirm Catholic leaders today. about 50 percent of white, their identity as Christian Hosffman Ospino, a profes- Euro-American Catholics. disciples. sor of theology and religious Since nearly two-thirds We live in a historical time education at Boston College, of Hispanics are Catholic, in which we need to place writes the “Journeying Together/ this means that the Catho- the best resources that the Caminando juntos” column for lic Church institutionally Catholic community in the Catholic News Service. July 21, 2018 | New Orleans BACK TO SCHOOL CLARION HERALD | Page 35 Loyola University unveils Student Success Center Loyola University New a major hub on campus, important part of that success coaching, self-development space, computer worksta- Orleans has opened a state- the new center emphasizes rate, which has been steadily and other student success tions, meeting and study of-the-art, $1.2 million do- Loyola’s roles as a center of on the rise over the last two needs. rooms and new main doors nor-funded Student Success academic excellence and a years. ➤ A modernized and ex- accessible to all students. Center that brings together place of welcome for all stu- The student success center panded learning space that ➤ Online coaching for all services previously offered in dents. offers: has tripled the size and capac- first-year students through various parts of the campus. The frst year of college is ➤ A centralized location in ity for shared tutoring and the university’s new part- Strategically located on the critical for retention of stu- a welcoming environment study-group spaces. nership with Inside Track. second foor of the J. Edgar dents, and Loyola officials where students can address ➤ New offices for staff This benchmark practice has and Louise S. Monroe Library, say the new center will be an their tutoring, mentoring, members, open tutoring already yielded tremendous results. The new Offce of Acces- sible Education (OAE) marks a shift from the medical model of disability to the so- cial model and allows Loyola to be even more inclusive of all students. More than 550 of Loyola’s 3,800 students are regular visitors to the OAE, and they are among the uni- versity’s highest achievers. In creating the Office of Accessible Education, the university utilized a design concept that removes barri- ers and accepts all students as they are. Testing spaces remodeled The office offers an im- proved testing space, in- cluding sound-proof testing rooms for individual and small-group testing; video camera monitors in testing rooms that allow staff to ad- minister tests from their offc- es without need for a proctor; individual testing desks with distraction-reducing screens; and height-adjustable desks for wheelchair accessibility. The office also has tech- nology such as the top-rated Sonocent Audio Note Tak- er Program and Kurzweil 3000+frefy Assistive Tech- nology Text-to-Speech Pro- gram. Every Loyola student en- joys the resources of the Stu- dent Success Center. Services include subject tutoring, help with writing assign- ments, mentoring, frst-year advising, success coaching, writing style seminar, skills workshops (such as procras- tination, mindfulness tech- niques, music meditation, and cognition strategies for memory). One-third of Loyola’s frst- year students are frst-gener- ation college students.