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A Special Section of The Catholic Spirit • June 14, 2018

Members of Immaculata High School’s Class of 2018 toss their caps in the air after commencement exercises at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville, June 1.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

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Go in peace to love and serve the world!

Catholic School GraduatesClass of 2018

Congratulations

•732-562-2446 · diometuchen.org/schools

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Visit us to learn more about Georgian Court, our programs, our values, and our Catholic Mercy mission.

georgian.edu/visit

Bishop George Ahr High SchoolMount Saint Mary AcademySaint Joseph High SchoolImmaculata High School

May God bless you as you step toward your dreams!

Congratulations Class of 2018

By Ellen Ayoub

In schools all across the Diocese of Metuchen, graduation ceremonies are bringing the 2017-2018 school year to an end. At each graduation ceremony, we are able to shine a light on the many accomplishments of our students, to ac-knowledge the dedication of the various administrators and faculty members of each school, and to thank the parents

throughout the years to provide a Catho-lic school education.

Pope Francis consistently urges students to challenge themselves, striv-ing to always be their best: “Dear young people, do not bury your talents, the gifts that God has given you. Do not be afraid to dream of great things.” Our high schools graduates have taken that challenge to heart by garnering $114 million in scholarships and awards. Due to their extraordinary efforts, they will be attending outstanding colleges and universities as they continue their education and pursue their dreams. Our eighth grade graduates are preparing to face the challenge of high school and the new adventures that are in store for them.

As the school year closes, it seems a

lic schools in the lives of our families

and in the life of our Church. In the document, To Teach As Jesus Did, which was written by the US Catholic Bishops in 1972, the bishops clearly stated that Catholic schools exist to teach the mes-sage of Jesus Christ, to build communities that foster that message and to create a culture of service to others. The message of God’s love is to be taught through word and deed, living the message as well as teaching it. Those words continue to guide our schools and our students.

Very recently, the mission of Catholic schools has been laud-ed in the Wall Street Journal. In an article entitled, “The Catholic School Difference,” the editors refer to a recent study that was con-ducted for the Thomas B. Fordham In-stitute by University of California-Santa Barbara associate professor Michael Gottfried and doctoral student Jacob Kirksey. Quoting the WSJ, the authors found statistically meaningful evidence that students in Catholic schools exhib-

ited less disruptive behavior than their counterparts in other schools. “Accord-ing to their teachers, Catholic school children argued, fought, got angry, acted impulsively, and disturbed ongoing ac-

tivities less frequently,” the authors write. Spe-

Catholic schools “were more likely to control their temper, respect others’ property, accept their fellow students’ ideas, and handle peer pressure.” In other words, they exhibited more self-discipline.

One of the unique programs in the Catho-lic schools of the Diocese of Metuchen is called Good God Choices, created by a group of teachers and administrators in the diocese to assist students to make good

choices in all matters and to form the trait of self-discipline. Our teachers are able to help students learn the message of Jesus in their school community by serving others in St. Therese’s ‘little way.’ We hope you will pray the prayer our students pray:

Jesus, make me a disciple of Good and Godly Decisions! Help me to show St. Therese’s “little way” of merciful love and forgiveness to everyone, every-day. LORD, Give me the COURAGE to make the best decisions in my everyday life.

St. Therese, Pray for us.

Graduates: commencement yields pause for thought

Ellen Ayoub is the superintendent of the Offi ce of Schools in the Diocese of Metuchen.

...the bishops clearly stated that Catholic schools exist to teach the message of Jesus

Christ, to build communities that foster that mes-

sage and to create a culture of service

to others.

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The Class of 2018 has been awarded$46 million in scholarships

98% of students are attending collegeClass Valedictorian: Taylor ChanClass Salutatorian: Rebecca Yang

Bishop George Ahr High School

Class of 2018

Sara Teresa AbboudFranzl Joseph AbeledaModioluwamu Adesopefolu AdegboyegaMatthew Francis AhleSuhney AhmadiVictoria Rose AlbaniRichard Joseph AlbrechtKayleen Sahillys AmaroRyan Marco AnciadoTrevor Jordan AnthonyTomas Aquino SautuJamilynn Marian AzconaNaomy AzconaMaricruz Azcona ParajonTia E. AzziJacob Lorenz BaelNia Valencia BairdCharlene Elizabeth BalmacedaLucianna Gilda BartholomewKyle Edward BednarzAmanda Marie BellArjun Charles BhattacharyaJessica BoakyeErica Lynn BocanegraKatherine Claire BodnarNikith BoyapatiKristen Marie BradyAndrew Jason BurgerMaximillian CaleroAmber Casey CallahanRylie Maria Campagna

Giulia CapassoChristian Alexander CardonaJustin Thomas Abella Vito CaridoMatthew CastanoAngelina Faith Cerasani

Colleen Rusin ChanTaylor Lexi ChanJasmine ChangJessie Gabriella ChoucrallahAbigail Anne CibrianDeontae CrawfordMegan Renee CroccoGregory James CruzNicholas T. Curto JrAlexa Marie D’AielloAshley D’SouzaDestiny Victoria DakersJohn Christian DallagneseJared DavisSara Elizabeth DeckerNina Marie DelmonacoAmanda Rose DembowskiMildred Massah DembyRobert Mark DeSantisAlisa DiamanteKyle M. DiGangiLily Ana DisbrowDayna Marie DobkowskiChristopher John DolanCollin Michael DrillKatie Buchanan EicherTobechukwu Carlton EnworomNastasha Cristine EspinosaDavid K. EsselAllison Katherine FavaleBridgette Rose FavaleCaitlin Anne FloresSean Patrick FlynnJaime Miriam FosterMallory Rose FosterEmma Kate FriedlanderAnna Maria FroehlichMaree Chestea Rain Z. FuentesReminiss Robert Wayne Funderberk

Brandon Wayne GeorgesBriana Lorena GilSarah Katherine GlazewskiJordan Bernard GoinsAnsel Menorca GomezMariel GomezAlejandro Josée GonzalezArmando Jose GonzalezRyleigh GreenwaldBarchue Will GuarKathryn Novicio GuiangCayla Elise HamiltonKyle William HansenKelly Elizabeth HarmonJulia Marie HaussAlexis Diamond HendersonEmma Trennes HerbanRobert Thomas HerbertBriannie HernandezJoshua Adam HornillaChristine Grace HoughtonKerriann Mei HowleyAlison P. HuangPhilip David IosueElyssa Monique JacksonTyler Alston JamesDaniel Christopher JarusiewiczAnetha Virginia JenkinsKaiyang JiangDranreb Ras JimenezKelly JimenezOlivia Taylor JonesColleen Elizabeth KellyJanelle Moné KellyThomas Michael KnappPayal KumarAbigail Leslie LanciaRyan C LaskoAnthony Marcus Leung

Ethan Alan LimJoo Eun LimSimon Theo Manuel lagunoLeslie Ann LopezWalter Emilio LopezJillian Dina LuptonJoseph Alexander MakoskiMichael Santo MalvoneMillenne Michelle ManantanSwapna MannamSamuel K.S. ManuElsa Madeline MartinezJose Contreras Martinez IIIPauline Mae MarzanJoseph Francis MauroKatie Ann MazzarelliBrianna Caitlin McAleeseNicole Alyssa McAleeseJessica Christine McGuinnessMarjolyn Hanneke MegaloudisSamuel Mejia RodriguezMatthew Nikolaos MellosMadison Elizabeth MenafroSebastian Alonso MercadoDevin Jose MerleJoshua Caleb Eugene MinickRyan MohabeerJulissa MonteroJaden Robert MontilusMaximillian Peter Mrozek-McCourtJessica Alice MurawskiNicole Marie NapoliGabriella Nicole NastoDanielle Nicole NavaraThaomi Dang NguyenOlivia Makenna NigroRyan Patrick O’Leary

John Francis Obolsky, IIOlutosin OladipoMeghan Victoria OldroydChelsea Somto OnyezeMichael James PacittiMaya PandyaMatthew De Villa PanganibanMichael Estomago ParsacalaJulianna Sarah PastoreChristina Ashley PepeErin PepeNicole K. PetrickJustin Everett PetwayPamela Louise PicernoVincent Ferreira PradoMaxwell Charles PrescottLaurel PrimeLuming QiMarisa Nicole RaderAdriana Indhira RamirezSabrina Cosico RamirezJalen-Gerard M. ReyesRebecca Ann RezacLucas Anthony RibauJacquelyn Lauren RiggiNatalie Rose RinaldoSophia Kelly V. RiveraJack Curran RoartyJude Michael RocheAmarilis RodriguezBrandon RodriguezMia Lee RodriguezWilfredo Rojas JrAlexa Anne RomanellaAndrew Raymond RomanowskiRashan Caseemn RuffPatrick Jonathan SalasAlexander Michael SantiagoTimothy Christopher SauerTamara Sawyer

Catherine Marie SchilpJeffrey Michael SchwartzCarlos Ray SegarraShoham SenguptaStephanie SequeiraRajat ShahAlfonso Orcio Sibayan Jr.Samori Nkosi SimonToure Kolanji SimonEmily Dorothy SingerJessica SinghHannah Marie SkarzynskiGabrielle Marie StankoshNatalie Claire StiloJoseph Peter Strunak IIAgustin Daniel SullivanCristian Patricio SullivanKylie Pearl SuttonDisnie Tiara ThambugalaNicholas Leo TirriChristian George TorresCaroline TramontanaMicaela UrenaGianna Marie VentimigliaLuke Anthony VizzoniAlyssa Raquel WaldronRuixing WangJanae Vivianna Spriggs WeatherlyJordan McKenzie WellsAlexandria Lynn WonskiVictoria Xue Mei WrightRebecca Kathrine YangSean Lawrence ZagarolaNicholas Roman ZajacAnnelisse Joy ZaraKatherine ZevallosZihou ZhangElizabeth Enpei ZhaoXueyi Zhu

Art Award: Disnie ThambugalaEnglish Award: Jasmine ChangSpanish Award: Taylor ChanLatin Award: Michael MalvoneItalian Award: Sophia Kelly RiveraMath Award: Rebecca YangBiological Science Award: Taylor ChanSocial Studies Award: Taylor Chan Excellence in Writing Award: Maximillian Mrozek-McCourtPhysical Science Award: Michael MalvoneBishop Checchio Religion Medal: Jude RocheExcellence in Technology Award: Carlos SegarraHealth and Physical Education Award: Erica Bocanegra, Timothy Sauer

Perfect Attendance Award: Trevor Anthony, Maricruz Azcona Parajon, Taylor Chan, Robert Herbert, Kerriann Howley, Colleen Kelly, Payal Kumar, Ethan LimNational Merit Scholarship Program (Letter of Commendation): Jasmine Chang, Simon Theo Llaguno, Michael Malvone, Laurel Prime, Shoham Sengupta, Luke Vizzoni, Alexandria Wonski, Sean Zagarola, Elizabeth ZhaoNational Merit Scholarship Program, TD Ameritrade Scholarship: Shoham SenguptaNational Merit Scholarship Program (Finalist): Colleen Chan, Taylor Chan, Rebecca YangVideo Production Award (On-Camera): Jillian Lupton

Video Production Award (Behind the Scenes): Amanda DembowskiBlessed Mother Angela Service Award: Ethan Lim, Joo Eun Lim, Jude Roche2018 Benjamin Banneker Award for Excellence in Science: Chelsea Onyeze Stanley Briski Memorial Scholarship: Leslie LopezRobin Cone Memorial Award: Erin Pepe Kathleen Duffy Memorial Award: Emma FriedlanderAlfonso Munoz Memorial Award: Madison MenafroKaren Trautvetter Award: Alexa RomanellaBrian Crelin Memorial Award: Agustin Sullivan, Cristian SullivanTherese E. Ghegan Memorial Award: Laurel Prime

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By Sue GetzCorrespondent

EDISON — Urged to become lead-ers of tomorrow, to make the world a better place and to always make time for God, the Bishop George Ahr High School Class of 2018 graduated June 2. With red robes and caps, the 231 gradu-ates, one of the school’s largest classes, processed into the school’s auditorium

and friends as well as the Bishop Ahr com-munity.

Bishop James F. Checchio began the commencement ceremony with an invocation praying, “Almighty, ever-living God, your son Jesus told us, ‘Be not afraid, I am with you always.’ (Is 41:10).

“May this Scrip-ture passage guide and comfort us as we journey through life.”

He added, “To-day, as these gradu-ates begin a new phase of their lives, we ask you to contin-ue to guide them and grant that they be pro-tected from harm.”

Addressing the school’s 46th gradu-ating class, Associ-ate Principal Harry Ziegler remarked that he has no doubt that the Class of 2018 will prove their ability to make their mark on the world. “You have shown what it means to be young men and women of faith, com-passion and character. Your actions

both large and small speak volumes about your determination to speak out for justice to support your brothers and sisters in need. I challenge you to con-tinue to follow that path as leaders of tomorrow. We are counting on you.”

In her congratulatory remarks, Fe-lician Sister Donna Marie Trukowski, principal, told the graduates, “I know that you have received an excellent education. I am glad that we had the

opportunity to talk about God and that you have gotten to know God better and to really believe that God loves all of you and that all of you are unique. God has a challenge for you because you are gift-ed and talented. You need to pursue what-ever it is that will make you happy.”

Proving they have had an excel-lent education, 98 percent of the school’s graduates will be continuing on to colleges and universities and have been awarded schol-arships in excess of $46 million.

In her comments, salutatorian Rebecca Yang said, “The uni-fying theme among all of us here today, is that none of us made it to this position alone. It is by virtue of those

who supported, encouraged, enabled and sometimes forced us and it is to them that much gratitude is due.

-ration for this occasion has reminded

me that although a sense of gratitude cannot over-write reality, it does allow us to change how we see it. And, more often than not, it is nice to see the good.

-thing to be grateful for and to see the good now and in the future. Together we have found a lot to be grateful for at Bishop Ahr.”

-dressed her class by speaking in many different languages. She explained, “I greet you all in different languages be-cause I truly believe that it represents who we are as a community: Diverse in both the cultural and intellectual sense. Like the individual fragments that cre-ate one beautiful mosaic masterpiece, our differences disappear as we come together in one tight-knit family living in one big house at 1 Tingley Lane.

“Every single graduate in this room is capable of making his or her dreams a reality. My tried and true formula is this: Hard work plus perseverance plus the Right Mind Set equals success. At Bishop Ahr, success involves service, justice and compassion. As Bishop Ahr graduates, it is our priority and re-

of society. Fellow graduates, strive for success and make an effort to posi-tively impact our world. Wherever the journey of life takes you, make it your mission not only to do well, but also to do good [works].”

Ziegler presented the graduates to

Bishop Checchio, who conferred the

Decker, Bridgette Favale and Ryleigh

of the Class of 2018.Alumna Lisa Miele Tirri was a

member of Bishop Ahr’s Class of 1983, the last graduating class under the name of St. Thomas Aquinas High School. She and her husband Steven are parents to of Anthony ’16 and Nicholas (Nico) ’18. “This school made me the mom

back on my family. Attending this school prepares you for challenges in life, both good and bad, through prayer, faith in God, community, and each other. Watching Anthony and Nico de-velop into young men who are smart, kind, and considerate speaks volumes, especially in the world today.”

There was much to celebrate as youngest child Jude Roche became

the Ahr alumni. He will soon join his brother Luke ’16, at LaSalle Univer-sity, Philadelphia. Parents Kevin and Sharon said that two other sons are Bishop Ahr faculty members: John is the assistant campus minister and

Continued on next page

Bishop Ahr graduates awarded $46 million in scholarships

“I am glad that we had the opportunity to talk

about God and that you have gotten to

know God better and to really believe that God loves all of you and that all of you

are unique." —Felician Sister Donna

Marie Trukowski

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio congratulates Emma Friedlander after giving her a diploma during commencement exercises at Bishop George Ahr High School June 2. Right, some of the 231 graduates in the Class of 2018 are shown in the procession. A total of 98 percent of the graduates plan to attend colleges and universities in the fall.

— Mike Ehrmann photos

Graduates of the Class of 2018 at Bishop George Ahr High School, Edison, move the tassel from the right side of their caps to the left after receiving their diplomas. The graduating class was the 46th from the diocesan school.

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Valedictorian: Taylor ChanSalutatorian: Rebecca YangDistinguished Honors: Victoria Albani, Kayleen Amaro, Tomas Aquino Sautu, Naomy Azcona, Jacob Bael, Nia Baird, Erica Bocanegra, Maximillian Calero, Colleen Chan, Taylor Chan, Jasmine Chang, Jessie Choucrallah, Alexa D’Aiello, Sara Decker, Amanda Dembowski, Dayna Dobkowski, David Essel, Allison Favale, Bridgette Favale, Sarah Glazewski, Ryleigh Greenwald, Joshua Hornilla, Christine Houghton, Kelly Jimenez, Colleen Kelly, Payal Kumar, Ethan Lim, Simon Theo Llaguno, Leslie Lopez, Joseph Makoski, Michael Malvone, Elsa Martinez, Pauline Marzan, Katie Mazzarelli, Matthew Mellos, Maxi-millian Mrozek-McCourt, Danielle Navara, Thaomi Nguyen, John Obolsky II, Michael Pacitti, Julianna Pastore, Pamela Picerno, Catherine Schilp, Alfonso Sibayan Jr., Hannah Skarzynski, Joseph Strunak II, Disnie Thambugala, Jordan Wells, Alexandria Won-ski, Rebecca Yang, Sean Zagarola, Elizabeth ZhaoAcademic Awards Four Years Principal List: Jacob Bael, Erica Bocanegra, Colleen Chan, Taylor Chan, Jasmine Chang, Allison Favale, Bridgette Fa-vale, Sarah Glazewski, Joshua Hornilla, Ethan Lim, Simon Theo Llaguno, Michael Malvone, Michael Pacitti, Hannah Skarzynski, Joseph Strunak II, Alex-andria Wonski, Rebecca Yang, Elizabeth ZhaoFour Years Honors Program: Sara Abboud, Jacob Bael, Nikith Boyapati, Colleen Chan,Taylor Chan, Jasmine Chang,Jared Davis, Collin Drill, Ryleigh Greenwald, Christine Houghton, Alison Huang, Payal Kumar, Ethan Lim, Joo Eun Lim, Simon Theo Llaguno, Joseph Makosk, Michael Malvone, Brianna McAleese, Nicole McAleese, Maximillian Mrozek-McCourt, Thaomi Nguyen, Olivia Nigro, Ryan O’Leary, Michael Pacitti, Maya Pandya, Pa-mela Picerno, Vincent Prado, Laurel Prime, Timothy Sauer, Shoham Sengupta, Gabrielle Stankosh, Dis-nie Thambugala, Caroline Tramontana, Alexandria Wonski, Rebecca Yang, Sean Zagarola, Nicholas Zajac, Elizabeth Zhao Distinguished Seniors Class of 2018: Sara Abboud, Jacob Bael, Erica Bocanegra, Colleen Chan,Taylor Chan, Jasmine Chang, John Dallagnese, Ryleigh Greenwald, Joshua Hornilla, Payal Kumar, Ethan Lim, Simon Theo Llaguno, Joseph Makoski, Michael Malvone, Maximillian Mrozek-McCourt, Thaomi Nguyen, Michael Pacitti, Laurel Prime, Shoham Sengupta, Hannah Skarzynski, Alexandria Wonski Rebecca Yang, Elizabeth Zhao Art Award: Disnie ThambugalaEnglish Award: Jasmine Chang Health & Physical Education Award: Erica Bo-canegra, Timothy Sauer Italian Award: Sophia Kelly RiveraLatin Award: Michael Malvone Math Award: Rebecca YangReligion Award: Jude RochePhysical Science Award: Michael Malvone Biological Science Award: Taylor ChanSocial Studies Award: Taylor ChanSpanish Award: Taylor ChanExcellence in Technology: Carlos Segarra Excellence in Writing: Maximillian Mrozek-McCourt

Director’s Award for Outstanding Dedication to the Drama Department 2017-2018: Jordan Goins, Abigail Lancia, John Obolsky II, Nicole Petrick, Natalie Rinaldo, Alexa Romanella, Sean Zagarola Director’s Award for Participatory Excellence in the Drama Department (two or more years): Andrew Burger, Colleen Chan, Abigail Cib-rian, Caitlin Flores, Jude Roche, Disnie Thambugala, Michael PacittiDirector’s Award for Distinguished Contribu-tion to the Drama Department (one year): Kyle Bednarz, Arjun Bhattacharya, Erica Bocanegra, Rylie Campagna, Jared Davis, Sara Decker, Robert DeSantis, Christine Houghton, Olivia Nigro Director’s Award for Most Improved Performer 2017-2018: Michael Pacitti, Natalie Rinaldo, Sean ZagarolaDirector’s Award for Outstanding Theatrical Performance over four years: Jordan Goins, Abi-gail Lancia, John Obolsky II, Alexa Romanella Director’s Award for Technical Excellence 2017-2018: Nicole PetrickDirector’s Award for Excellence in a Comedic Performance 2017-2018: John Obolsky II Video Production Award (on-camera): Jillian LuptonVideo Production award (behind the scenes): Amanda DembowskiDirector’s Award for Excellence in Dance 2017-2018: Jordan Goins, Abigail Lancia Four-Year Involvement in Music: Nia Baird, Charlene Balmaceda, Arjun Bhattacharya, Andrew Burger, Jared Davis, Jordan Goins, Payal Kumar, Abigail Lancia, Ethan Lim Joo Eun Lim, Millenne Manantan, Julissa Montero, Thaomi Nguyen, Chelsea Onyeze, Michael Pacitti, Alexa Romanella, Andrew Romanowski, Stephanie Sequeira, Disnie Thambugala, Rebecca Yang, Elizabeth Zhao Most Improved in Band: Julissa Montero, Disnie Thambugala

Most Improved in Chorus: Colleen Chan, Jordan Goins Meritorious Contribution to Music: Jordan Goins, Abigail Lancia, Disnie Thambugala, Elizabeth Zhao Outstanding Dedication to Music: Arjun Bhat-tacharya, Jared Davis, Alexa RomanellaWoody Herman Jazz Award: Andrew BurgerLouis Armstrong Award: Andrew RomanowskiFred Waring Award for Chorus: Arjun Bhat-tacharya, Michael Pacitti, Alexa RomanellaNational School Color Guard Award: Millenne Manantan National School Marching Award: Andrew BurgerNational Choral Award: Jordan Goins, Abigail LanciaPatrick S. Gilmore Award: Jared DavisJohn Phillip Sousa Award: Andrew Romanows-ki National Merit Scholarship Program (TD Ameritrade Scholarship): Shoham SenguptaNational Merit Scholarship Program (Final-ists): Colleen Chan, Taylor Chan, Rebecca YangNational Merit Scholarship Program (Letter of Commendation): Jasmine Chang, Simon Theo Llaguno, Michael Malvone, Laurel Prime, Shoham Sengupta, Luke Vizzoni, Alexandria Wonski, Sean Zagarola, Elizabeth ZhaoPerfect Attendance Award: Trevor Anthony, Maricruz Azcona Parajon, Taylor Chan, Robert Her-bert, Kerriann Howley, Colleen Kelly, Payal Kumar, Ethan LimBlessed Mother Angela Service Award: Ethan Lim, Joo Eun Lim, Jude RocheAmerican Irish Association of Woodbridge: Colleen KellyCertificate of Special Congressional Recogni-tion (6th District of New Jersey): Christine Houghton

Devine’s Pharmacy Scholarship: Kathryn Guiang Diocese of Metuchen “Respect Life Video” Finalist and First Place Winners: Joo Eun Lim, Thaomi Nguyen Friends of South Amboy: Alexander SantiagoHerff Jones Award for Journalism: Colleen ChanLiberty Coca-Cola Scholars Program (regional finalist): Laurel Prime Middlesex County Guidance Council Caring Award: Joo Eun Lim Middlesex County Principal and Supervisors Association Outstanding Student Award: Tay-lor ChanMiddlesex County Scholar Athlete Award: Da-vid Essel, Ryleigh GreenwaldMyCentralJersey.com Academic All Star 2018: Simon Theo LlagunoNational Honor Society Scholarship Semifinal-ist: Ethan Lim New Jersey Army National Guard Community Service Award: Payal Kumar NJSIAA Scholar Athlete: Erica Bocanegra President’s Volunteer Service Award: Jude RochePrudential Spirit of Community Award (Cer-tificate of Merit): Hannah Skarzynski Prudential Spirit of Community Award (Cer-tificate of Achievement): Jude Roche Raritan Valley (NJ) Chapter of the Links, Inc.: Payal KumarRotary Club of Carteret: Richard AlbrechtSan Felese Society of New Jersey: Sarah Glaze-wskiSt. Vincent de Paul: Julia Hauss, Jude RocheSociety of Women Engineers: Jasmine ChangStringer Award: Maximillian CaleroAir Force Technology Education Award: Jalen-Gerard ReyesAir Force Math & Science Award: Jasmine ChangU.S. Army Scholar Athletes: Sara Decker, Ryan O’LearyU.S. Marine Corp Scholastic Excellence: John Dallagnese U.S. Marine Corp Athletic Award: Amanda Dem-bowski, Collin Drill U.S. Marine Corp Semper Fi: Andrew BurgerWegman’s Service Award: Angelina CerasaniWendy’s Heisman Award: Sarah GlazewskiZolnier Student Leadership and Service Award: Angelina Cerasani2018 Benjamin Banneker Award for Excel-lence in Science: Chelsea OnyezeStanley Briski Memorial Award: Leslie Lopez, Jessica Murawski, Joseph Strunak IIRobin Cone Memorial Scholarship: Erin Pepe Kathleen Duffy Memorial Award: Emma Fried-lander Brian Crelin Memorial Award: Agustin Sullivan, Cristian Sullivan Therese E. Ghegan Memorial Award: Laurel PrimeAlfonso Munoz Memorial Award: Madison MenafroKaren Trautvetter Award: Alexa Romanella

BIshop George Ahr High School

Taylor ChanValedictorian

Rebecca YangSalutatorian

Continued from previous page Matthew teaches history and religion. Their daughter Katy McAndrew also graduated from Bishop Ahr and is a guidance counselor at St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick. Noting that all of their children are choosing careers

in the service of others, they say their vocations will make them happier and

careers.In his closing remarks, Bishop

Checchio encouraged the graduates to keep one question in mind: ‘What is

God asking of me?’ “Make some time in your lives to turn to God who knows you better than you know yourself. Go

plan for your life to give yourself lasting happiness.”

Concluding his remarks, Bishop

Checchio said, “Class of 2018, I am

you do changing the world for the better and making a mark on the world — living not just for yourself, but for others. I am grateful for the gift you are.”

Bishop asks graduates to reflect: 'What is God asking of me?'

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Father Th omas Walsh, Mrs. Ann Wierzbicki,St. Bartholomew School Faculty, Staff , and Students

and the entire Parish Community

St. Bartholomew School and Parish Family

We are very proud of you.Congratulations on a job well done!

St. Bartholomew School, 470 Ryders Lane East Brunswick, NJ • 732-254-7105 • school.stbartseb.com

Congratulates our Class of 2018

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Congratulations Class of 2018!

Our Lady of Victories SchoolSayreville

May Our Lord bless you and keep you!

Emily ArthurMorgan Brennan

Lindsey CaridoBeatrice Espinosa

Sydney FrancisChristopher Fraser

Sean GonzalezParul Gupta

Stacy HinesEmma NelsonRiley O’KeefeCarolyn O’SuchAshley SalazarSamantha ShawMuskaan ThaparNicholas Verlingo

Hannah Viloria

St. Ambrose School Class of 2018!!

Elder Alvarenga

Chloe Anderson

Kaila Barnes

Gerrolin Beauzile

Nicholas Chadwell

Courtney Coleman

Jadin Collins

Timothy Figueiredo

Jackson Gaffney

Donoban Lopez

Abigail Marzan

Kevin McGuiness

Jamie Metz

Maria Moncada

Gwenievere Nieves

Bryce Pinnock

Nicholas Robertson

Renata Rosal

Skylar Talley

John Ventriglia

Arianna Waldron

Colin WhitesideClass of 2018!!!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

Congratulations and God bless the Class of 2018St. James School, Woodbridge

May God's blessing follow you all as you find new journeys to travel. May you walk safely along the pathways of your dreams.

May his gentle hand guide the decisions you will make and the passions that you follow.May your hearts and lives always reflect his love and truth,

And may hope be a light within you that you carry into each new day.

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By Karen CorporaCorrespondent

SOMERVILLE -- The Immaculata High School Class of 2018 gathered with faculty, families and friends June 4 at Immaculate Conception Church for the institution’s 52nd commencement exercises.

In his opening remarks, Bishop James F. Checchio said graduation can seem like

reality there are more questions than there are answers.

“For some of you the ultimate ques-tion is how much longer can I keep my Snapchat streak going?” Bishop Checchio joked. He encouraged the graduates to keep

them all — what is Je-sus asking of me?

“Your happi-

intricately linked to

wants you to do. Upon waking each day say a simple prayer, Lord Je-sus, what do you want of me today?”

He concluded

Kline, principal, who is retiring after working 36 years in Catholic education. Kline, her

and her children are all graduates of Immacu-lata. Kline’s career

French teacher at Im-maculata. In the ensu-ing years, she worked

roles and has spent the past four years as prin-cipal at Immaculata.

Regarding the graduating seniors she said, “What is ex-

mit to so many of our opportunities here.

mitment to the needy through the school’s extraordinary Campus Ministry Outreach Program. We are Spartan Proud of the

they launch their careers.”The salutatorian, Meaghan Louise

Immaculata memories: class retreats; high

school Christmas traditions; sports; Spar-

lunch and homeroom; and graduation day. “Four years ago, we as a class opened

twists and turns, hardships, laughter, strug-

unique stories and our own parts that are

closed.” She acknowledged that although graduation will end class time at Immacu-

class has formed. “Our friendships will

and can’t wait to see the great things you accomplish in the years to come.”

Valedictorian Megan Rose Adam, who plans to attend Rensselaer Polytech-nic Institute, Troy, N.Y., to study archi-

the lessons learned at Immaculata centering on faith, fellowship,

“Immaculata has taught us to grow in

the world and allowed

family and friends are always there along the

est outlet and source of strength and knowl-edge,” she said.

Using a quote from John A. Shedd

for,” she said, “This idea completely em-

to do. They encourage

our comfort zone and expand our horizons. On this special day, in

of 2018, I say this is our moment in time. Let’s use it to go out there and change the world.”

Kline announced dozens of awards and scholarships for the graduate and said the graduates earned more than $13.7 mil-lion in scholarships this year.

Kline, Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan, the school’s director and pastor, Immaculate Conception Parish, and Bishop Checchio

of whom were recognized as second-gen-

who was recognized as a third-generation Spartan.

Bishop Checchio to seniors: keep Jesus part of daily life

“They go beyond the classroom and learn about teamwork and perseverance through

sports and have established a lifelong commitment to the needy through the

school’s extraordinary Campus Ministry

Outreach Program. We are Spartan Proud of the Class of 2018 and wish them the best as they launch their careers.”

—Jean Kline, principal

“We started off in Immaculate Con-

olic education. It’s a family tradition.”

had children, we decided it was worth the

That’s what our parents did for us.”Six of the graduates on the school’s

of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association State Tournament.

game went 11 innings.

director. “It was a tough game and our eyes were on the clock. Luckily we won

here.”Following commencement, school

faculty and staff lined the sidewalk and applauded the students as they passed

hoisted their caps into the air in unison. Families hugged, snapped photos, and

Above, during commencement exercis-es for Immaculata High School seniors held at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville, Bishop James F. Checchio gives a diploma to Gavin Wasilius as, from left, his father, Richard Wasilius, grandmother, Brenda DeMasi Wasilius (Class of 1966) and mother, Pamela Murray Wasilius (Class of 1990) watch. Jean Kline, who is retiring as principal, watches in background.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

Above, Bishop Checchio speaks at the graduation. Left, Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan, the school’s director and pastor, Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville, listens to a speaker. The 107 graduates earned more than $13.7 million in scholarships and awards.

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ITHighest General Average (Gift of Immaculata Spartan Club): Megan Rose Adam, Meaghan Louise O’ConnorExcellence in Theology (Gift of the Most Reverend James F. Checchio and Martinsville Knights of Columbus Council 5959): Leo James Melancon Excellence in English (Gift of the Fraternal Or-der of Eagles Aerie 2137): Matthew Christopher SchinellaExcellence in Social Studies (Gift of the Fra-ternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2137): Matthew Christopher SchinellaExcellence in Mathematics (Gift of the Frater-nal Order of Eagles): Tyler Edward Kojak Excellence in Chemistry (Gift of the Science Department): Sean Thomas DoranExcellence in Physics (Gift of the Science De-partment): Tyler Edward Kojak Excellence in Biology (Gift of the Science De-partment): Victoria Logan ParishExcellence in Spanish (Gift of the Somerville Knights of Columbus Council 1432): Megan Rose AdamExcellence in French (Gift of the Fraternal Or-der of Eagles Aerie 2137): Andrew David BowerExcellence in Computer Science (Gift of the Vossen Family): Tyler Edward Kojak Excellence in Business Education (Gift of the Vossen Family): Andrew James McHaleExcellence in Journalism (Gift of the Journal-ism Program): Jacqueline J. Velona Sister Dolores Margaret Scholarship for Excel-lence: Jacob Maxwell BarrieConnie Tarentino Memorial Award (Gift the Tarentino Family): Bridget Elizabeth McTiernanMusic Department Award (Gift of Mrs. Mary Frances Gertsen): Ian Glenn Zohn The Marie E. Laggini Vocal Excellence Award (In memory of Marie Laggini): Andrew David Bower Excellence in Music, Service to the School, Church and Community: Katharine Martha Mahoney ‘Semper Fidelis” Award (Gift of the Marine Corps Recruiting Station): James Cornelius CavanaghExcellence in Dramatics (Gift the Drama De-

partment): Andrew David Bower, James Augus-tine SlocumThe Edward “Ted” Gaughan Memorial Scholar-ship: Christopher R. MyersThe Louis Armstrong Jazz Award: Thomas An-thony WilliamsThe John Philp Sousa Award: Jacob Maxwell BarrieThe Susan Bruns Award: Margaret Mary YorkgitisPresident of Tri-M Music Honor Society: Thom-asina A. ColombaroniAward for Excellence in the Visual Arts (Gift of the Sister, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary): James Cornelius CavanaghAward for Excellence in Digital Arts (Gift of the Art Club): Glan Antonio RigaMarine Corps Academic Award: Christopher R. MyersMarine Corps Athletic Award (Gift of Marine Corps Recruiting Station): Michael Jacob Paus-tian, Abigail Lynne Gilbert President of the Student Council (Gift of Rev. Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan): Matthew Robert Lumia President of the Senior Class (Gift of the Stu-

dent Council): Ysobelle Francesca Reyes President of the National Honor Society: Sarah Ann AdamNational Honor Society and Tutorial Service to the School: Erin Elizabeth McGovern, Meaghan Louise O’Connor President of the Spanish National Honor Society (Gift of the Spanish National Honor Society): Megan Rose Adam President of the French National Honor Soci-ety (Gift of the French National Honor Soci-ety): Michael Jacob PaustianService to the Magnifi cat Yearbook (Gift of the Journalism Program): Leo James Melancon Service to the Spartan Spirit Newspaper (Gift of the Journalism Program): Katherine Rose SourChristian Spirit Award (Gift of the Immaculata High School Spartan Club): James Cornelius Cavanagh, Megan Rose Adam Campus Ministry Award: Erin Elizabeth McGov-ern, Gerard Stanley WietechaU.S. Army Green Beret - Staff Sergeant An-drew T. Lobosco Scholarship Award (Gift of Felix Ciattarelli of Value Towing): Matthew

Robert LumiaLaw Enforcement (Gift of Somerville Police Benevolent Association Local 147): Daniel Martin McNulty Somerville Civic League Scholarship: Stephen Callahan Dwyer, Nolan Andrew LegerBranchburg Rotary Club Scholarship: Kevin Michael Dalessio, Michael Jacob Paustian The Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewa-ter Scholarship: Mark Diana The Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewa-ter Paul F. Davis Memorial Scholarship: James Cornelius CavanaghSomerville Business Professional Association Scholarship for Service to the Borough of Somerville: Music Award: Andrew David BowerSomerville Metro Lions Club: Sarah Ann AdamThe Esther and Joseph Cusick Memorial Award (Gift of Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Cusick): Katharine Martha Mahoney The John H. Van Cleef, Sr. Scholarship: Sean Thomas Doran, Margaret Mary Yorkgitis The John Collins Memorial Scholarship (Gift of Ancient Order of Hibernians and Knights of Columbus, Somerville Council 1432): Noah James JordanKelly Elizabeth Gibson Memorial Scholarship: Maddyson Angelina MalloryThe Kristin A. Culley Memorial Scholarship (Gift of Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Culley): Karen Michele Moreau Somerville Elks/Susan Kelly Memorial Schol-arship (Gift from the Class of 1980): Cortney Marie Colangelo The Richard D. Tyler Memorial Award (Gift of Mrs. Richard D. Tyler): Naomi KoromaAn Award for Merit (Gift of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ribbans): Sarah Ann AdamThe Robert Briski Citizenship Award (Gift of Mrs. Carol Briski): Joshua ReyThe Sheila M. White Scholarship: Leo James Melancon, Francis Michael McGuire IHS Alumni Scholarship (Gift of the Offi ce of Advancement and Alumni Relations): Bridget Elizabeth McTiernan, Liam Aaron Kowalski The Monsignor Eugene B. Kelly Memorial Award (Gift of IHS Principal): Erin Elizabeth Mc-Govern

immaculata high school

Megan AdamValedictorian

Meaghan O'ConnorSalutatorian

Prayer for Gradu atesIMMACULATE CONCEPTION SCHOOL

Somerville

CLASS OF 2018!! May God’s love and grace always surround you!

HEAVENLY FATHER,SURROUND THOSE WHO ARE GRADUATING WITH YOUR GRACE. BLESS

THEM WITH HOPE SO THAT THEY MOVE INTO THE FUTURE WITH EAGER AND OPEN HEARTS. HELP THEM TO PUT THE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND

INSIGHTS GAINED THROUGH THEIR EDUCATION TO USE FOR THE GOOD OF ALL HUMANKIND. INSPIRE THEM TO BELIEVE IN THE GOODNESS OF

LIFE, EVEN WHEN FACED WITH CHALLENGES AND DIFFICULTIES. AS THEY COMMENCE WITH THEIR LIVES, MAY THEY GROW EVER MORE GRATEFUL AND WISE. ALL OF THIS WE ASK IN THE NAME OF JESUS, YOUR BELOVED SON.

AMEN

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proudly congratulates the

100% college acceptance,including these top universities:Lehigh, Bucknell, Boston College, American,

Tufts, Villanova, Northeastern, NYU

on their many honors and achievements:CLASS OF 2018

25 graduating Seniors received the2018 President’s Volunteer Service Award

During their four years at Immaculata, the Class of 2018 gave a combined 19,670 hours of service through the Campus Ministry program.

90% of the Class of 2018 earned acceptanceto their first choice school.

75% of the Class of 2018 graduated with college scholarship offers; over 55%

received full or half-tuition awards.

Of those scholarships, 80% were more than the cost of an Immaculata education.

240 Mountain Avenue, Somerville NJ 08876 . 908.722.0200www.ImmaculataHighSchool.org

www.Facebook.com/ImmaculataHighSchoolNJ

420 Inman Avenue Colonia, NJ732-388-1662 www.school.sjvianney.com

Achieving academic excellence within a faith filled community.

Genna Arduini Gabriella DiGiovanni Ayleen Morales Scott RayackAshini Bhardwaj Ashley Elmadolar Semrit Nijjar Rory ReisEmily Brogan Philip Halecki Joseph Norton Andrew SalottiMorgan Carter Nicholas Lieggi Evelyn O’Connor Reema SharmaJayden Christmas Adelina Marinello Shray Patel Joseph SpaltroAlexander Cintron Gregory Martinez Joshua Pereira Steven TekelAashish Codada Alexis Martins Elizabeth Powers Christopher WaldronJuliana DiCosmo Lesly Mayta Emma Prati Jevon White

Aleksander Kiempisty-Lachowski

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Congratulations Class of 2018!

The Diocese of MetuchenCatholic High Schools

BISHOP GEORGE AHRSAINT JOSEPH · IMMACULATA

MOUNT SAINT MARY

— John Batkowski photo — Marlo Williamson photo — Mike Ehrmann photo — John Batkowski photo — John Batkowski photo

— Marlo Williamson photo

— John Batkowski photo

— Mike Ehrmann photo

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

— Marlo Williamson photo

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

— Mike Ehrmann photo

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St.John Vianney Early College Academy, Bishop Ahr,

Christian Brothers, St.Joseph, Mater Dei with over $150,000 in scholarships

St. Thomas the Apostle School

CLASS OF2018

ACCOMPLISHMENTS &ACCEPTANCES

Where you’ll fi nd our graduates in September...

333 HIGHWAY 18, OLD BRIDGE, NJ ∙ 732-251-4000 ∙ STTAOB.COM

PERTHAMBOY

CATHOLIC SCHOOL

Class of 2018Bb

with pridecongratulates

our

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By Christina LeslieCorrespondent

WATCHUNG — With the ponderous ringing of a 1,000-pound bell inscribed with the words “We give thanks to God,” the 80 white-gowned members of the Mount Saint Mary Academy Class of

of their chapel to begin commencement exercises June 2.

89 percent of those seniors had been awarded more than $17.7 million in scholarships and grants from institutions of higher learning throughout the nation. Thirty percent of the graduates received scholarships in excess of the four-year cost of attending the pri-vate Catholic all-girls high school owned and operated by the Sisters of Mercy of the Mid-Atlantic.

S a l u t a t o r i a n Elisabeth Incardona, who plans to study the biological sciences at the University of Chicago in Illinois, recognized how much the graduates’ life will change the moment they descended the school perched upon a mountaintop.

“We drove up the hill as Mount students, and will drive down as alumnae,” Incardona said. “Our paths will diverge and lead us to different experiences, different lives. We are kind, respectful and loving women … Our love will keep blooming in the hearts of unimaginable numbers of people [and] you will be the light that brightens even the darkest places we encounter.”

Life is unpredictable, Incardona concluded, “but you are good. Wherever you end up, it will be a better place be-cause you are there.”

Valedictorian Brigid Meisenbacher plans to attend the University of Notre Dame, South Bend. Ind., and study eco-nomics and applied mathematics. She noted that, though the individual details of classes, sports and friendships may have waned, the hopes and dreams had grown.

“They all culminate on this day,” she declared. “At the Mount, we created what we wanted to see in our little beau-tiful community, that we, as freshmen, would have looked up to. The importance of what we have done here relies not in the literal sense, but the spiritual.

“The peace in your heart that the Mount has made … forms the essence of

our time [here]. We grew and loved and learned all we could. Time at the Mount was the foundation for the heights we will reach. If you think we can change lives during high school, can we even imagine what we will do next?”

Mercy Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto, school directress, and assistant directress Karen L. Calta were joined by Bishop James F. Checchio to distribute diplo-mas to the beaming graduates. Each new graduate lingered for a moment before the congregation, then turned the tassel on the cap of a fellow graduate to indi-cate their graduation from the Catholic

high school.

close, emotional ties that existed between faculty and students, each group performed a song during the commencement ex-ercises, delivering a heartfelt musical

days together as the Mount Saint Mary Academy family.

The black-robed faculty sang Christian musician Mark Harris’ “Find Your Wings” with a refrain that wished “I pray that

heart with dreams / And that faith gives you the courage to dare to do great things / I’m here for you whatever this life brings / So let my love give you roots

wings.”Students an-

swered the call to become active alumnae with a song popu-larized by Phillip Phillips, “Home,” which declares, “The trouble it might drag you down / If you get lost, you can always be found / Just know you’re not alone / ‘Cause I’m going to make this place your home.”

tongue in cheek, introduced Bishop Checchio as a “Mercy boy,” informing the congregation that members of the religious order had taught him as a youth at St. John School, Collingswood. The bishop revealed the religious who had served as principal during that period was alive and living in the McAuley Care Center, which shared Mount Saint Mary’s hilltop campus.

“When I visit her, I get the shakes,” -

ence laughed. “I was called down to her

asked if I wanted to run the school.”The prelate reminded the young

women that they would be moving on to

larger challenges, but should always keep

what is the Lord asking of me?“Keep the lessons in mind as you

move forward, and never forget,” he said. “God wants nothing for you but happi-

Following the ceremony, as parents waited outside the chapel on the warm spring morning to meet family, friends and their graduate daughters, they shared their motivation for choosing a Catholic education.

Catherine Angela Gerlitz’s parents,

Tammy and Kevin, carried a bouquet of

cited “the Mercy values and knowing she would be educated to become a compas-sionate, loving woman of the world,” as the reason their daughter went to Mount Saint Mary Academy.

The smile on the face of Luis Rojas outshone the brilliant bouquet of Colom-

his daughter, Isabelle Rose. He noted, “It was not only for the education, the aca-demics, but for me the faith and strength of belief in God and that Jesus will al-

“At the Mount, wecreated what we

wanted to see in our little beautiful com-munity, that we, as

freshmen, would have looked up to. The im-portance of what we have done here relies not in the literal sense,

but the spiritual.” —Brigid Meisenbacher,

Valedictorian

Mount Saint Mary Academy holds commencement exercises

Above, a graduate of Mount Saint Mary Academy moves the tassel on the cap of a classmate from the right side of her cap to the left af-ter they received their diplomas at commencement exercises June 2. Right, Bishop James F. Checchio gives a diploma to one of the 80 se-niors at the all-girls, private Catholic school. Below, Mercy Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto (at left in front row), directress, sings “Find Your Wings” with the faculty choir.

— John Batkowski photos

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ITGeneral Excellence – Four Years – Valedicto-rian (Gift of the Mercy Guild): Brigid C. Meisen-bacherExcellence – Four Years – Salutatorian (Gift of the Fathers Club): Elisabeth IncardonaHigh Honors-Four Years – 4.0 GPA or higher: Virginia Ashby, Colleen Cirrotti, Cara Condodina, Cassidy Connett, Elisabeth Incardona, Fiona John-son, Mary Kate Kaczynski, Chloe Markey, Brooke Meadowcroft, Brigid Meisenbacher, Sydney Nigro, Isabelle Rojas, Natalie Vogel, Lauren ZastkoBishop Checchio Religion Medal 2018 (Gift of the Diocese of Metuchen): Cara CondodinaSchool Leadership Award (Gift of the Alum-nae): Meghan Ciullo, Hanna Guarnuccio, Maria Jaeckel, Patricia LezynskiSchool Spirit Award (Gift of the Fathers Club): Meghan Ciullo, Maria Jaeckel Catherine McAuley Award (Gift of the Sisters of Mercy): Aubrie Hart, Jane Matto, Skylar Mor-ganChristian Leadership Award (Gift of Campus Ministry): Colleen Cirrotti, Madison Langrin Sister M. Eloise Claire Kays Memorial Award

Mount Saint MaryHigh School

Brigid C. MeisenbacherValedictorian

Elisabeth IncardonaSalutatorian

(former directress of MSMA): Victoria Eckert, Katie Metzger Sister Mary Kerwin ’45 Award (former direc-tress of MSMA): Cassidy Connett, Abigail VarkerSister Diane Szubrowski, RSM Humanitarian Service Award (former NJ Regional Commu-nity President of the Sisters of Mercy): Rose Doherty, Rose RittenhouseOutstanding Leadership Award (Gift of the Directress): Maria JaeckelNational Merit Finalist: Brigid C. MeisenbacherNational Merit Commended Scholars: Elisa-beth Incardona, Mary Kate Kaczynski, Sydney Ni-gro, Lauren ZastkoNational Hispanic Achievement Scholar: Isa-belle RojasNational Cum Laude Society Mount Saint Mary Chapter: Virginia Ashby, Colleen Cirrotti, Cara Condodina, Cassidy Connett, Elisabeth In-cardona, Fiona Johnson, Mary Kate Kaczynski, Chloe Markey, Brigid McNamara, Brooke Mead-owcroft, Brigid Meisenbacher, Katie Metzger, Sydney Nigro, Isabelle Rojas, Natalie Vogel, Lauren Zastko

DELBARTON Salutes the

Class of 2018!

Learn more at Delbarton.org

2018!

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Our 80 Graduates in the Class of 2018 Received a Total of over $17 Million in Scholarships/Grants

*Valedictorian **Salutatorian

1645 U.S. Highway 22 at Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069

(908) 757-0108 • www.MOUNTSAINTMARY.org

Mount Saint Mary

Academy

Congratulates the Class of 2018

Lucia Alaimo - Univ. of ScrantonSamantha Amo - Univ. of MarylandAlexandra Anzalone - Syracuse UniversityHaley Argenziano - Univ. of AlabamaVirginia Ashby - Cornell UniversityEmma Bedell - Gettysburg CollegeJulia Benewiat - Fairfield UniversityElizabeth Cappucci - Univ. of RichmondKayla Cerqueira - Saint Joseph’s UniversityColleen Cirrotti - Villanova UniversityMeghan Ciullo - Quinnipiac UniversityHannah Clarke - Univ. of PittsburghLauren Clouser - George Washington UniversityCara Condodina - Boston CollegeCassidy Connett - Duke UniversityColleen Coudriet - Baylor UniversityRose Doherty - Stonehill CollegeNicole Doria - Fordham UniversityLondon Duncza - Sacred Heart UniversityBriana Dyon - Univ. of MiamiKara Eckert - Siena CollegeVictoria Eckert - Providence CollegeOlivia Fargiano - Muhlenberg CollegeEmily Garofalo - Pennsylvania State UniversityEmma Genovese - High Point UniversityCatherine Gerlitz - Southern Methodist Univ.Catherine Glackin - Lehigh University

Alexandra Gomes - Loyola Univ. MarylandCasey Grispin - American UniversityHanna Guarnuccio - Univ. of ScrantonSuzanne Hall - Quinnipiac UniversityAubrie Hart - Fairleigh Dickinson UniversityMara Hinerman - NJ Institute of TechnologyShayna Hollander - Duke UniversitySamantha Howath - Loyola Univ. MarylandClare Hulseman - Loyola Univ. MarylandElisabeth Incardona ** - Univ. of ChicagoKendall Jacobs - High Point UniversityMaria Jaeckel - Loyola Univ. MarylandFiona Johnson - Fordham UniversityKelly Kacani - Loyola Univ. MarylandMary Kate Kaczynski - Villanova UniversityMadison Langrin - Johns Hopkins UniversityPatricia Lezynski - Villanova UniversityAllison Lipkin - George Washington UniversityMarionna Loffredo - College of CharlestonChloe Markey - Univ. of MichiganJane Matto - Rutgers UniversityBrigid McNamara - Wake Forest UniversityTherese McNamara - Saint Joseph’s UniversityCatharine Meade - Seton Hall UniversityBrooke Meadowcroft - Univ. of MarylandPaige Meadowcroft - Univ. of FloridaBrigid Meisenbacher * - Univ. of Notre Dame

Skylar Morgan - Saint Joseph’s University Sydney Nigro - The College of New JerseyAlaina Parisella - Brown UniversityWhitney Pierce - Virginia TechLauren Principe - Univ. of New EnglandRose Rittenhouse - Univ. of RichmondIsabelle Rojas - Univ. of PennsylvaniaTherese Ruane - Case Western Reserve UniversityAriana Salermo - Univ. of TampaJennah Santiago - Coastal Carolina UniversityRobin Schilke - Seton Hall UniversityMarguerite Scialabba - Providence CollegeMorgan Sena - Fordham UniversityTanvi Siddharthan - Carnegie Mellon UniversityNoelle Sperrazza - Baylor UniversityMichaela Sullivan - Univ. of FloridaSamantha Tush - Saint Joseph’s UniversityAbigail Varker - Saint Joseph’s UniversityNatalie Vogel - Northeastern UniversitySarah Wiggins - Mount Holyoke CollegeCara Williams - Rutgers UniversityLauren Zastko - Cornell UniversityGenevieve Zipp - High Point University

*Valedictorian **Salutatorian

Katie Metzger - Loyola Univ. MarylandIsabella Migliozzi - Duquesne UniversityKristen Moran - Providence College

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Congratulations and God Bless St. Matt hias School Class of 2018

Emily Abbott

Ava Abreu

Vincent Alvarez

Sean Baridi

Ariana Borromeo

Amanda Cariaga

Haley Chan

Chelsie Ekhelar

Shannon Fraser

Patrick Frazee

Erin Geib

Katherine Gleason

Danelys Gomez

Nicholas Grazioso-Brown

Denise Gruenewald

Elizabeth Haseloff

Alexandra Kachurick

Matthew Kelly

Sebastian Kiraz

Morgan Lavelle

Michael Liberti

Tara Lyons

Samuel Makowski

Matthew Martin

Mekai Mathews

Dominick Mazzeo

Emily Mazzeo

Lauren McNamara

Jake Miller

Kayla Nungari

Joseph Nunziata

Feyisola Olajitan

James Parmelee

Jacob Pil

Christian Ramos

Jennifer Rihacek

Julie Salloum

Altis Scafe Jr.

Allison Schmidt

Joseph Vergel

Patrick Walsh

Richard Williams

Jack Woodard

Brian Zafi an

Erin Zafi an

21 merit scholarships$240,000

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SAINT JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOLBrothers of the Sacred Heart in Metuchen since 1901

®

Congratulations to the Class of 2018

94% received scholarships greater than the 4-year total of Saint Joseph tuition75% were awarded one or more scholarships totaling in excess of $20,000 per year

65% were awarded a total individual scholarship in excess of $90,000 over four years

4 National Merit Finalists and Scholarship winners6 National Merit Commended Students

6 Athletic County/Division Championships5 Latin medals

2 German medals

100% College Acceptance $37.2 million in Scholarships

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By Christina LeslieCorrespondent

SOUTH PLAINFIELD — “This time in your life it is more about ques-tions than answers. Keep one question above all others: what is our Lord asking of you? Your faith will be chal-lenged but remember the words of the Lord to his disciples: Do not be afraid. By your perseverance you will se-cure your lives.” That was the advice Bishop James F. Checchio shared with the Saint Joseph High School Class of 2018 at its graduation May 20.

The 155 members of the class were feted at a baccalaureate Mass and graduations ceremony in Sa-cred Heart Church. “Gentlemen, your time is now,” de-clared Principal Justin Fleetwood to the graduates of the Metuchen private preparatory school run by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

The class had four National Merit Finalists and six Na-tional Merit Com-mended Students; 94 percent of this year’s graduates earned scholarships in excess of the four-year tuition cost at Saint Joseph’s. The 155 young men have accrued more than $37.2 million in scholarship offers from colleges and universities across the country.

Sacred Heart Brother Louis Cou-villon, chaplain and director of campus ministry, presided at the Mass and gave the homily.

“If we would have shown [the students] that they were loved by God, special, have gifts, we would have been successful,” Brother Louis said to the staff and faculty.

Turning to address the green-robed graduates, he continued, “Chal-lenges can be embraced with the gift of your faith, and that is what we offer to you. To be compassionate, to serve your brothers and sisters: that is what you have been taught. You are ready to take your gifts, talents and blessings to a new venture.”

In his speech, valedictorian Devin Busono reminded fellow graduates that support of family, friends, faculty and the staff of their Catholic high school had supported them throughout their academic careers. That support

is integral in modern society, for it is riddled with negativity, noted Busono, who plans to pursue a degree in ma-rine biology at Rutgers University-New Brunswick.

Quoting the Roman poet Lucre-tius, the valedictorian continued, “‘We are, each of us, angels with only one wing, and we can only fly by embrac-ing one another.’

“Congratulate each of your broth-ers today. That kind of support helps us soar like falcons, makes us a com-munity, a brotherhood, echoing the charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.”

Salutatorian Jason Manuel, who recalled his desire to enroll in Saint

Joseph High School began during the school’s “freshman for a day” program, declared his deci-sion was not solely based upon its stellar reputation as an aca-demic and athletic powerhouse, but instead based on the students and faculty therein.

Manuel said, “When we began as the Class of 2018, we were a blank slate… now it has become our masterpiece, a work of art. Each student has added a brush stroke.”

College would be another opportu-nity to create such a grand work, said Manuel, who plans to attend Brown University, Provi-dence, R.I., to study computer science and physics.

“In the words of Christ, ‘Let your light so shine among men that others can see your good works,’” Manuel concluded.

Bishop Checchio joined Fleet-wood, Gregory Brandao, president, and members of the St. Joseph fac-ulty in the awarding of the diplomas. At the reading of the last graduate’s name, the rafters of the church were rattled as family and friends filling the church’s pews erupted in applause and cheers.

Parents laden with bouquets of flowers, balloons with celebratory messages, cameras and smartphones reflected after the ceremony upon their reason to offer their sons a Catholic education.

Mary Lynn Salomon said she enrolled her son, Alec, at Saint Jo-seph High because of the institution’s

Private, all-boys college preparatory school graduates 155

“Challenges can be embraced with the gift of your faith, and that

is what we off er to you. To be compassionate, to serve your brothers and sisters: that is what you have been taught."

— Sacred Heart Brother Louis Couvillon

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio, joined by administrators and faculty of Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, congratulates a member of the Class of 2018 at commencement exercises at the Sacred Heart Church, South Plain-fi eld, May 20. Right, salutatorian Jason Manuel, who plans to attend Brown University, R.I., in the fall to study com-puter science and physics, speaks from the ambo.

— Marlo Williamson photos

Above, members of the Class of 2018 at Saint Joseph High School leave Holy Savior Academy, a Middlebrook Deanery school, in procession across the park-ing lot to Sacred Heart Church. Right, Sacred Heart Brother Louis Couvillon, who serves as chaplain and director of campus ministry, presides at the Mass.

“structure and discipline.”“It will help him in becoming a

man,” she added.Terry Callaghan stated her son,

Luke, attended the school “because of the teachers’ special interest. They let me know what is going on. As a work-

ing mother, that’s important.”Eric Schuhrer II’s mother, Jeanie,

chuckled, “I grew up in South Plain-field and was always told to date aSt Joe’s boy” because of their goodcharacter. “The moment I had [Eric],I knew he had to come here.”

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Valedictorian Award: Devin Busono Salutatorian Award: Jason ManuelScholar-Athlete Award: Jonathan SotSumma Cum Laude – 4-year cumulative GPA >4.40: Derek Aborde, Justin Biancamano, Ryan Brede, Devin Busono, Michael D’Esposito, James Haddad, Matthew Hall, John Hoban, Brandon Horn-lein, Mitchell Johnson, Nicholas Johnson, Junyu Liu, Jason Manuel, Morgan Murphy, Benjamin Nemeth, Christopher Nguyen, Matthew Pinho, Russell Ram-boud, Michael Rangel, John Reggio, Henry Schaef-fer, Kevin Shank, Jonathan Sot, Jakob Staggard, Kyle Subers, Stephen Walker III.Magna Cum Laude – 4-year cumulative GPA >4.0: Zackary Abbey, Joseph Antonucci, John Behr, Luke Callaghan, Jonathan Chan, Seamus Conlon, Christian Consales, Dominick D’Esposito, Nicholas Freda, Ishaan Grover, John Hermitt, Austin Hill, Christian Kainer, Kevin Lenahan, Reece Lenaz, Luke Leonard, Brendan McGarr, Rourke Morrison, Bradley O’Connell, Christian Owens, Nathaniel Owusu-Asumeng, Akash Prasad, Conor Quigley, Kerry Regis, Zachary Riviere, Michael Rizzi, Kshaunish Soni, Nicholas Spiaggia, Conor Sweeney, Hersh Thapar, Mark Yamakaitis, Daniel Young.Cum Laude – 4-year cumulative GPA >3.8: Derek Aborde, Justin Biancamano, Ryan Brede, Devin Busono, Michael D’Esposito, James Haddad, Matthew Hall, John Hoban, Brandon Hornlein, Mitchell Johnson, Nicholas Johnson, Junyu Liu, Jason Manuel, Morgan Murphy, Benjamin Nemeth, Christopher Nguyen, Matthew Pinho, Russell Ram-boud, Michael Rangel, John Reggio, Henry Schaef-

fer, Kevin Shank, Jonathan Sot, Jakob Staggard, Kyle Subers, Stephen Walker III.Alumni Award: Reece Lenaz, Daniel Young Anthony S. Spezio Memorial Award: Rourke Morrison Bishop Checchio Medal: Christian Consales The Curtis Nurnberger Memorial Award for Excellence in Music: Alex Paredes The Gavin MacDonald Memorial Award for

Excellence: Nicholas JohnsonGeorge F. Smith Memorial Award: Junyu Liu Kevin Reinhard ’05 Memorial Scholarship: Ethan Anthony, William Drumgool, Garrett Klur-man, Kevyn Martinez The Lorraine Noble Memorial LTA Scholarship: Thomas EricksenMark Tropeano Memorial Award Scholarship:

Devin BusonoEdison Rotary Senior of the Year: Matthew HallWilliam Perdue Memorial Award: Morgan MurphyExcellence in Computer Science and Applied Technology: Bradley O’ConnellDepartment Award: Nicholas JohnsonExcellence in English: Mitchell JohnsonDepartment Award: Benjamin NemethExcellence in Art: Emmanuel DeJesusExcellence in Music: Rourke MorrisonExcellence in Health and Physical Education: Ezra ErakpotoborDepartment Award: Ryan Maloney Excellence in Mathematics: Junyu LiuDepartment Award: Akash PrasadExcellence in Science: Russell RambaudDepartment Award: Kshaunish SoniExcellence in Social Studies: Morgan Murphy Department Award: Brandon HornleinTheology: Brothers of the Sacred Heart (In Memory of Dominic Codella): John Reggio Brothers of the Sacred Heart (In Memory of Brother George Woodburn, S.C.): Matthew PinhoExcellence in French: Luke CallaghanDepartment Award: Brock WilkinsExcellence in German: Henry Schaeffer Department Award: Austin HillExcellence in Latin: John HobanDepartment Award: Conor Quigley Excellence in Spanish: Michael RangelDepartment Award: Michael Rizzi

Saint Joseph High School

Devin BusonoValedictorian

Jason ManuelSalutatorian

Diplomas were presented to graduates of Mother Seton Regional High School, Clark, May 31, by Charity Sister Jacque-lyn Balasia, principal, and Joan Barron, principal.

Members of the Class of 2018 earned more than $14 million dollars in academic scholarships and awards.

Charity Sister Mary Anne Katlack, campus minister, gave the invocation and the closing benediction.

Sister Jacquelyn recognized the schol-arships that the Class of 2018 achieved.

In her congratulatory remarks, Barron said, “In time, you will discover the true value of a Mother Seton education. It will be measured by the life you lead. Remem-

on your accomplishments. The possibilities

you a future that only you can unfold.“Graduates, take with you your faith

witness, the pursuit of academic excellence and of course your Seton Spirit. The future is yours. Congratulations, Class of 2018.”

The Principals’ Award for academic excellence during the past four years was awarded to valedictorian Jillian Frost and salutatorian Melissa Gonzalez.

The Saint Elizabeth Anne Seton Award for exemplary witness to Chris-tian values during the past four years was awarded to Alexandra Anton.

In her speech, Gonzalez said, “To-day, I stand before you as a soon-to-be graduate of Mother Seton, but in the fall of 2018 I will be attending Rutgers Un-

versity majoring in aerospace engineering. I’m very proud of each and every one of my classmates because I know that we’ve all worked very hard and we all deserve

things in the future, but most importantly,

sisters that we have made here.”In her speech, Frost said, “When you

walk out of here and start a new chapter in your life, there are two things to keep in mind.

accomplish your goals in life.“The second is to make the world a

better place; to show your light and bring hope to others.

“I hope to take all the knowledge that I have gained here with me in my next en-deavor to study Chemical Engineering at

Leona Duffour, senior class president, invited the members of the Class of 2018 to join her in turning their tassels as a sym-bol of their graduation from Mother Seton Regional High School. Duffour plans to

and major in biology/pre-med.

Commencement exercises held at Mother Seton High School

Mother Seton Departmental Awards for Academic ExcellenceAP Biology: Jillian FrostAP Calculus: Jillian FrostAP Chemistry: Jillian FrostAP English: Gianna LepantoAP French: Coralie Jean-FrancoisAP Physics: Jillian FrostAP Spanish: Julianna Bulsiewicz, Melissa Gon-zalezAP U.S. History: Alexandra AntonArt: Ashley HeyderPhysical Education: Alexandra Chernooki-Lavorato, Coralie Jean-FrancoisReligious Studies: Jillian FrostNational Merit Scholarship Program Com-

mended Student: Katherine BlumNational Hispanic Scholarship Program: Katherine BlumSeton Distinguished Scholars: Alexandra Anton, Kassidy Beauzil, Katherine Blum, Julianna Bulsiewicz, Jillian Frost, Melissa Gonzalez, Anna Holland, Gianna Lepanto, Camille-Joie MartinezScholar AthletesNew Jersey State Interscholastic Associa-tion – Julianna BulsiewiczGreater Middlesex Conference: Alexandra AntonGreater Middlesex Conference Sportsman-ship Award: Brielle RobinsonNational Women in Sports Outstanding Athlete Award: Emily Hayes

Graduates of Mother Seton Regional High School, Clark, hold their diplo-mas after commencement exercises May 31. From left, front row: Abigail Pepe, Katherine Rodrigo and Melanie Cardoso. Back row: Kamilla Kocsis and Kassidy Beauzil.

— Joan Barron photo

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Congratulations to the Class of 2018! Joseph Abano · St. Joseph HS Alexandra Adler · Ridge HS

Christopher Apuzzo · Watchung Hills HS Renata Aviles · Villa Walsh Academy Mariana Banegas/Nieves · Ridge HS Aidan Batista · Seton Hall Prep Ryan Bodnar · Seton Hall Prep Grace Cannon · Proctor Academy Lauren Conley · Villa Walsh Academy Claudia Cordano · Ridge HS Hannah Cunniffe · Mt. Saint Mary Joseph DeMarco · Ridge HS Kieran Donnelly · Oratory Prep Gerard Fargiano · Oratory Prep James Finnen · Oratory Prep Olivia Gaibor · Immaculata HS Carson Giust · Ridge HS Jackson Goethals · Seton Hall Prep McKenna Graf · Villa Walsh Academy Kyle Hart · Oratory Prep Lillian Henry · Immaculata HS Eoin Herron · Ridge HS Jacob Hummel · Immaculata HS Isabella Jambrina · Villa Walsh Academy Claire King · Mt. Saint Mary Academy Nora Lange · Watchung Hills HS Madeline Laska · Ridge HS James Le Beouf · Ridge HS Anthony Madsen · Union Catholic HS Luke Mahala · Seton Hall Prep Sydney Marriott · Ridge HS Nia Minott · Villa Walsh Academy Sarah Murphy · Mt. Saint Mary James Popadick · St. Peter’s Prep Cameron Scarpati · Delbarton Ryan Schuh · Oratory Prep Dean Sharif · Delbarton Thomas St. Pierre · Morris Catholic Grayden Varisco · STEM Academy Caroline Villa · Academy of St. Elizabeth Mark Wilson Jr. · Oratory Prep

God bless you on your journeys! From the Administration, Faculty and Staff of Saint James School, Basking Ridge

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Barnard College (2)Boston UniversityColgate UniversityCollege of William and Mary (2)Drexel University (3)Eastman School of MusicEmory UniversityFordham UniversityGeorge Washington University (2)Hofstra UniversityLoyola Marymount University

New York UniversityRider UniversityRochester Institute of TechnologyRollins CollegeRutgers UniversitySkidmore CollegeSmith CollegeStevens Institute of TechnologySyracuse UniversityUnited States Coast Guard AcademyUniversity of California, San Diego

University of California, DavisUniversity of MiamiUniversity of Notre DameUniversity of PennsylvaniaVassar CollegeVirginia State UniversityWashington & Lee UniversityWellesley CollegeWesleyan UniversityWidener UniversityWilliams College

Independent Girls’ Day School l PS–12

Stuart admits students of any race, color, religion and national or ethnic origin.

LIMITED SPACE IS AVAILABLE FOR FALL 2018 ENROLLMENT.

Congratulations

God Bless our Graduates

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their Dreams.” Eleanor Roosevelt

A total of 573 graduates in the Class of 2018 from the four Catholic high schools in the diocese earned more than $114 million in scholarships and awards, an increase of $21.5 million from last year.

Seniors who received the 2018 Bishop James F. Checchio Award for Religion are: Jude Roche of Bishop George Ahr High School, Edison; Leo James Melancon of Immaculata High School, Somerville; Cara Condodina of Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung; and Christian Consales of Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen.

Saint Joseph High School, held com-mencement exercises May 20 at the Church

uates of Immaculata High School, Somer-ville, received their diplomas, awards and honorable recognitions June 1, followed the next day by graduates of Bishop George Ahr High School, Edison, and Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watching.

Among the 231 graduating seniors at Bishop George Ahr High School, more than $46 million in scholarships and grants were awarded this year. Over four years, the Class of 2018 averaged nearly 272 hours of community service per student; and 98 per-cent of graduates will continue their studies at a college or university.

The diocese’s co-educational college preparatory school was founded in 1969 and is administered by two Franciscan Felician Sisters with a dedicated team of lay administration, faculty and staff, and a diocesan priest, who serves as the full-time Director of Catholic Identity at the school.

At Immaculata High School, gradu-ates earned more than $13.7 million in college scholarships. More than 90 percent of the 107 graduates were accepted to their

percent of the graduates received scholar-ships in excess of the four-year cost of at-tending the co-ed college preparatory high school staffed by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM). The school is also lead by a dedicated team of lay administration, faculty and staff, and a diocesan priest, who serves as the full-time Director of Catholic Identity.

At Saint Joseph High School, the 155 graduates cumulatively received more than $37.2 million in scholarships. The school had four National Merit Finalists and six National Merit Commended Students; and 94 percent of the graduates received schol-arships in excess of the four-year cost of attending the private Catholic all-boys col-lege preparatory school run by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

At Mount Saint Mary Academy, 89 percent of the 80 seniors were awarded $17.1 million in scholarships and grants; and 30 percent of the graduates received scholarships in excess of the four-year cost of attending the Catholic, private all-girls high school owned and operated by the Sis-ters of Mercy of the Mid-Atlantic.

Bishop Checchio, who participated in all four commencement ceremonies, said it brings him joy to attend the high school

graduations. He noted that the visits offer him the opportunity to personally thank those who contribute to the success of the schools, primarily the students, but also the administrators, boards, teachers, staff and generous benefactors.

graduation and recent conversations with young graduates, Bishop Checchio said that commencement exercises can often signal completion and lead graduates to believe

really more questions than answers,” he said.

As the graduates enter into the next phase of their young adult lives, he encour-aged them to keep one question above the

has been created and loved into being by a God who has a purpose, a design for them;

years ahead, they are going to be faced with many obstacles in discovering what that is.”

Schools in the diocese are enrolling

students for fall 2018. For information visit diometuchen.org/schools or call (732) 562-2446.

Seniors at high schools in diocese earn $114 million for excellence

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MOTHER SETON REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOLCONGRATULATES THE GRADUATES OF THE CLASS OF 2018

Our graduates earned in excess of $14.5 million in academic scholarships and grants. 9 SETON DISTINGUISHED SCHOLARS

1 NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED STUDENT • 1 NATIONAL HISPANC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM STUDENT

A Tradition of Academic Excellence and Seton SpiritMother Seton Regional High School is a Catholic, regional high school of the Archdiocese of Newark.

We are a college prep school for young women in grades 9 through 12. The school is served by the Sisters of Charity of Convent Station NJ and lay faculty members.

1 Valley Road, Clark, New Jersey 07066 • 732-382-1952 • www.motherseton.org

1600 Martine Avenue • Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 908-889-1600, Ext. 302 • www.unioncatholic.org

Union Catholic High SchoolCongratulates the Class of 2018on obtaining a remarkable $33,304,558 in college scholarships.God Bless the Class of 2018

601 Lawrence RoadLawrenceville, NJ 08648609.882.7900 www.ndnj.org

ValedictorianJennifer L. Harris

Salutatorian Elizabeth A. Vernon

Celebrating 60 years of academic excellence, tradition and community.