Scranton's Class of 2022 Presidential Scholars Include Trinity Alumnus Jacob Shomali (Class of 2014)

Fourteen students from the University of Scranton class of 2022 have been awarded four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarships. Seated, from left, are Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., president of The University of Scranton; and Presidential Scholars Meghan Rohr, Jessica Goldschlager and Charles Kulick. Standing, from left, are Presidential Scholars Erin Horan, Colleen Chan, Robert Maloney, Ashley Mullan, Anna Wengyn, Sarah White, Eric Dittmar, Sean Connolly, Jacob Shomali, Patrick Dawid and Shannon Brokerick.

Scranton Names Class Of 2022 Presidential Scholars

Originally Posted Here

The University of Scranton has awarded 14 students from its class of 2022 four-year, full-tuition Presidential Scholarships. The Presidential Scholarship recipients are Shannon Broderick, Colleen Chan, Sean Connolly, Patrick Dawid, Eric Dittmar, Jessica Goldschlager, Erin Horan, Charles Kulick, Robert Maloney, Ashley Mullan, Meghan Rohr, Elias Shomali, Anna Wengyn and Sarah White.

Presidential Scholarships are awarded to incoming first-year students with outstanding records in high school and notable community involvement. The scholarship covers four years of full tuition provided that the student maintains at least a 3.25 grade point average.

Shannon Broderick, New Fairfield, Connecticut, graduated from New Fairfield High School. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Math Honor Society and the Italian Honor Society. She was class secretary, president of a peer-mentoring program, president of the Italian club, a National Honor Society tutor and a member of the New Fairfield High School Rebel Senate. She participated in lacrosse and indoor track and was captain of the field hockey team. Broderick volunteered as a camp counselor and an elementary school classroom assistant and volunteered for Relay for Life and the American Red Cross. Broderick will major in nursing at Scranton. She is the daughter of Geraldine and Michael Broderick.

Colleen R. Chan, East Brunswick, New Jersey, graduated from Bishop George Ahr High School. She was a National Merit Scholarship Finalist and the Herff Jones Journalism Award recipient. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Math Honor Society, the National Science Honor Society and the National Hispanic Honor Society. An active leader in many high school clubs and organizations, Chan was captain of the club and varsity swim teams, a student ambassador, yearbook editor-in-chief and a Teen Action Group executive board member. A volunteer with over 300 hours of logged service, she served as an EMT and volunteered at her local library in addition to other service projects. Chan is a nursing major. She is the daughter of Carol Rusin and Donald Chan.

Sean P. Connolly, Danbury, Connecticut, graduated from Immaculate High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club. Connolly was captain of the varsity cross-country and track and field teams at his high school. He has volunteered with the United Way of Western Connecticut and the Special Olympics of Danbury. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Connolly is an undeclared major in Scranton’s College of Arts and Sciences. He is the son of Andrea and Patrick Connolly.

Patrick Dawid, Dupont, graduated from Scranton Preparatory School. Dawid earned gold medals in national German and Latin exams. He was an involved member of his school’s Business Club and Astronomy Club and played on the football team for three years. He served his community through school programs and volunteered at a summer program with the ARC of Scranton. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Dawid will major in biochemistry as Scranton. He is the son of Ewa and Zbigniew Dawid.

Eric Dittmar, Stroudsburg, graduated as salutatorian from Pocono Mountain East High School. He was an AP Scholar with Distinction. He was the president of his school’s marching band and a member of Odyssey of the Mind. He volunteered his time at the Animal Welfare Society of Monroe County and the Lehigh Valley Hospital Pocono. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Dittmar will major in computer science on the pre-med track. He is the son of Susan and Matthew Dittmar.

Jessica R. Goldschlager, Magnolia, Delaware, graduated as valedictorian from Caesar Rodney High School. She is a National AP Scholar. She competed in the cross-country and speech and debate teems in her school and participated in the Delaware Congressional Delegation Youth Conference. She was also involved in martial arts, Olympic weightlifting and marathons. She served many hours as a volunteer occupational therapist’s assistant at Bayhealth Medical Center, as a teacher as Camp Hola, and as a children’s health educator and peer-teacher the John S. Charlton School. Goldschlager will major in occupational therapy at Scranton. She is the daughter of Margaret Bell and Steve Goldschlager.

Erin B. Horan, Massapequa, New York, graduated from Holy Trinity Diocesan High School. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the Math Honor Society, the Thespian Honor Society and the Music Honor Society. A Science Olympiad, she was a member of Math Fax and the senior leadership group L.I.G.H.T.S. She was captain of the volleyball team and a member of the varsity winter track team and varsity badminton team. She was also involved in the select choir, school musicals and music ministry. Horan volunteered as a religious education teacher as St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish. Horan will major in occupational therapy at Scranton. She is the daughter of Elizabeth and Daniel Horan.

Charles Kulick, Pittston Township, graduated as valedictorian from Scranton Preparatory School. He was a National Merit Scholar Finalist. A Science Olympiad member and Mathlete, he was president of the Advanced Technology Club and president of the Creating Writing Club at Prep. He participated in a service trip with the South Carolina Habitat for Humanity and was involved as a volunteer with the Seasons of Love Soup Kitchen. Kulick will double major in mathematics and computer science at Scranton. He is the son of Sharon and Mark Kulick.

Robert Maloney, Staten Island, New York, graduated from Xaverian High School. He was a member of the National Honor Society. He was a student ambassador and as president of the Clipper Society at his school, he assisted in open houses and reunions. He was a member of the varsity swim team, the ultimate Frisbee club team and of concert band. Maloney volunteered his time as a National Honor Society tutor, a counselor at Candlewood Knolls Children’s Camp, a server and cleaner at Chips Soup Kitchen and a volunteer at the New York City Marathon. Maloney will major in accounting at Scranton. He is the son of Mary Ann and Robert Maloney.

Ashley E. Mullan, Huntington, New York, graduated from St. Anthony’s High School. She was a National Merit Commended Scholar, a National Hispanic Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Foreign Language Honor Society, the National English Honor Society, the National Math Honor Society and the Music Honor Society. A member and leader of many clubs, Mullan was president of the Critical Review Board, publicity director of a peer mentoring program and a retreat leader. She is a second-degree black belt and certified instructor in jiu jitsu. She was also a member of the honors orchestra and jazz band in high school and a volunteer piano accompanist. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Mullan will major in applied mathematics at Scranton. She is the daughter of Dina and John Mullan, who is a 1988 graduate of The University of Scranton.

Meghan Rohr, Audubon, graduated from Villa Maria Academy. She was a member of the National Honor Society and a Math Honor Society officer. She was on the Student Integrity Committee, a Speak Up representative, a Respect Life Club officer and a member of the Pennsylvania Math League. She was a member of her high school’s cross country and field hockey teams. An active volunteer, she served at the Phoenixville Hospital, the Brandywine Valley S.P.C.A. animal shelter and Visitation B.V.M. Parish among others. She also helped organize food and clothes drives and the annual Giving Tree. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Rohr will major in nursing at Scranton. She is the daughter of Terri and Jay Rohr.

Jacob Shomali, Ellicott City, Maryland, graduated from Loyola Blakefield High School. He was an AP Scholar with Distinction. A trombone player in school’s jazz band and the Jazz Academy Orchestra in Washington, D.C., and active member of musical theater programs, Shomali won the Louis Armstrong Award. He was a senior captain of the forensics team, captain for club travel soccer, a retreat volunteer and a student ambassador. He spent much of his summer volunteering at hospitals and clinics in Baltimore City, Maryland, and he has volunteered at food banks and homeless shelters. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Shomali will major in neuroscience in Scranton on the pre-med track. He is the son of Margret and Mansur Shomali.

Anna E. Wengyn, Chalfont, graduated as salutatorian from Lansdale Catholic High School. She was an AP Scholar with Distinction and a member of the National Honor Society and the World Language Honor Society for Spanish. She was president of her high school’s drama club, a student government representative, a student ambassador and an orientation leader. She was a member of the choir and played on the field hockey team. A member of her school’s Community Service Corps and her parish’s youth group, Wengyn volunteered many hours serving her community. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, Wengyn will major in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology at Scranton. She is the daughter of Tammy and Joe Wengyn.

Sarah V. White, Brooklyn, New York, graduated as salutatorian from Marymount School of New York. She was a National Merit Commended Scholar, a member of the National Honor Society and she earned a gold medal in the National French Competition. She was captain of the softball team, co-president of the Women in Our World club, co-chair of the club's gender equality summit, co-president of Book Club, school retreat leader and a student ambassador. She served as an intern in the New York University’s Langone Department of Cell Biology. Her numerous service projects include serving as a lector at St. Anselm R.C. Church and editing a fundraising journal for St. Anselm’s Catholic Academy. A member of the University’s Special Jesuit Liberal Arts Honors Program, White will major in biology at Scranton. She is the daughter of Eileen and Andrew White.

A Letter From Mr. Wilson

A Letter From Mr. Wilson

December 5, 2018

Dear Parents,

We have completed one third of the school year and I must say it has been a wonderful experience. Your children light up this campus on the darkest of days. It is a true joy to come to school and be greeted by such polite, intelligent, and happy students. The Trinity students have made my move back into the work force an easy transition. At least once or twice a week one of the students will do something admirable and I say to myself I can’t wait to tell Sister Catherine. Then reality hits. She would be very proud of our 2018-19 student body. I know that I am and I certainly hope that you feel the same.

The December calendar is full of events showcasing our talented students. Please, try to attend a concert, mass or prayer service. If you have a friend looking for a school bring them to one of these events to see Trinity girls and boys in action.

Report cards have been posted. It is now a good time to discuss with your child the first quarter results. Educational experts emphasize that until a student can comfortably recount what has been taught in their own words the learning process is not finished. Setting long term goals for the next trimester can be a big help in a students learning. Also, setting short term goals that can be reached in a week or so is really beneficial. You can never be too organized.

Enjoy this Christmas season and have a wonderful holiday.

Steve Wilson
Interim Principal
Trinity School

A Letter From Mr. Sloyer

A Letter From Mr. Sloyer

December 5, 2018

Dear Middle School Parents,

 It is hard to believe that we are already a third of the way through our school year. The teachers and staff all appreciate your support during the first three months of the school year during which we celebrated the life and legacy of Sister Catherine with Grace, Gratitude and Joy. As we begin the second trimester, this is a good time to reflect on some of the experiences and opportunities that have gotten us off to such a strong start.

We continue to make strides in the area of technology. Over the summer we acquired a set of Sphero robots, which have put into heavy use and are a big hit with the students. We also now have our first Lego League robotics team,which practices weekly in the STEM lab and is gearing up for its first competition, thanks to the initiative of a new parent and the generous support of a donor.

Trinity is also dedicated to educating both students and parents. In November, Mrs. Baldwin brought in a guest speaker who presented information to parents on how to develop and support executive functioning skills at home. We plan to host more sessions later this year. If you have any suggested topics or speakers, please do not hesitate to contact me.

As you review your child’s first trimester progress report, my hope is that it will serve as a conversation starter with your child. If you child is excelling in a particular subject, celebrate that accomplishment with him or her and explore ways that he or she may be able to further develop his or her talents in that area. If he or she is struggling in a particular subject, talk about how you may be able to support his or her efforts. And know that both I and the teachers stand ready offer assistance, as needed.

The Advent season is now upon us. As we enter this season of preparation, we hope that you will take the opportunity to attend some of our prayer services and concerts as we all await the celebration of the birth of our Lord.

Sincerely,

Paul Sloyer

Middle School Head

A Letter From Mrs. Martinez

A Letter From Mrs. Martinez

December 5, 2018

Dear Parents,

Happy December!

It is hard to believe that we are already into our second trimester! It seems that holding conferences prior to report card distribution was effective and that delivery of our first electronic report cards proved successful. Each day our administrators, faculty and staff come to school with the expectation of meeting high standards for learning, as well as offering equal attention to the individual needs of our students. I am proud of the accomplishments of our students and am grateful for the support you offer to assist with their success.

Our year’s spiritual theme of Grace, Gratitude and Joy remind us daily of the gifts that are our Trinity heritage. It is difficult to walk down our halls or around our campus and not feel the spirit of Sister Catherine guiding us each day, and see the work of the Holy Spirit in action.

We have several delightful, festive events to look forward to during these next few weeks; Secret Santa, the Kindergarten and First Grade Christmas Pageant, Second Grade’s Santa Lucia /Juan Diego celebration and our yearly Christmas concert, which will feature Third and Fourth Grade performances as well as our Middle School Concert Choir, Ensemble Bell Choir and the School Band. Please feel welcome to join us for any or all of these events; dates are listed on the website, our school calendar, and in our weekly Newsy Notes.

This Friday, December 7th, we will celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (a December 8th Feast Day) at a 2:00 Liturgy. This feast day celebrates that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was conceived with God’s special grace, free from original sin. We welcome you to join us in the auditorium for this Mass.

Our primary classes are involved with making and sending Christmas cards to our military Airmen. The personalized messages and drawings they have created are precious, and are sure to add smiles and encouragement to those far from home during the holidays.

As the hustle and bustle of preparing for Christmas overtakes, it is easy to be caught up in the many “to dos”, but it’s important to keep in mind the reason for the season and to take time to savor its simple joys. While we move through the season of Advent and prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us remember the many gifts we enjoy each day and reflect on our countless blessings from God.

I pray that you and your loved ones are blessed with the gifts of love, faith, and joy at Christmas and in the New Year to come.

Warmest regards,

Margie Martinez
Primary School Head

A Letter From Mrs. Law

A Letter From Mrs. Law

December 5, 2018

Dear Trinity Preschool Families,

It’s hard to believe that December is already here. It’s amazing to see what the students have accomplished over the course of the past three months. I am very proud of our children’s hard work and I appreciate your support and assistance in helping your child be successful!! Teachers, staff, and parents have been instrumental in making it a productive year for the students, and for that we should all be grateful.

As November comes to a close, and we prepare ourselves for Advent and Christmas, don’t forget to pause and think about the true meaning of the season. Advent is a special time of year in which we look for and nurture the presence of God through prayer and reflection as we prepare ourselves for the celebration of the birth of Christ on Christmas Day. 

The first part of the 2018-2019 school year has gone by quickly, and it has been an exciting time with all our new friends. Parents have met with their children’s teachers during parent conferences at the end of the month and I must say that it has been a joy watching the children grow and blossom.

As I reflect on the many things for which I am thankful, I want to take this opportunity to share just a few of them with you: I am thankful for our students who come to school every day ready to learn – they give us all a daily reminder of what is important and why we are here. I am thankful for the support of the parents in creating an outstanding partnership for our students. I am thankful for the teachers, assistants, secretaries, nurses, lunchroom aides, support staff, therapists and administrators who really care about student achievement and have the best interests of our students at heart. I am also thankful for our volunteers who enthusiastically contribute so much to our school. In these most difficult and challenging times, we see dedicated and tireless individuals going above and beyond to make sure that great things happen in our school. They do make a difference, and the children, in their own individual ways, benefit from those efforts. Most importantly, I am thankful for the parents that have kept the faith in us. They continue to share their most valuable possession with us. For this, we are ever so thankful and grateful. 

As always, thank you for entrusting your children to us, and I look forward to the upcoming Christmas Pageants on Wednesday, December 19th (3’s at 10 am in the Chapel and the 4’s and K-Transition in the Auditorium). I take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support for Trinity School as we work together to offer the very best learning opportunities and experiences for your child(ren). Every morning I remind the children that “today is a good day for a good day”.

On behalf of everybody at Trinity School and Preschool, we wish you, your family and those you love a holy and peaceful Christmas and an abundance of God’s grace for the New Year.

With “Gratitude, Grace and Joy”,

Barbara Law and the Preschool Staff

Trinity School Cross Country Team Finishes 10th Season

The 10th season of Trinity Cross Country was one for the record books. Alex Brosseau, Max Bezos, Kalei Takasaki, and Roswitha Otazo all solidified their place in the Trinity Cross Country Hall of Fame. Trinity runners continued to set personal records each week. To list them all here would overwhelm Newsy Notes! On Saturday, Max Bezos recorded the best time of the year in the 7th/8th grade run. He ran a stunning 13:33 race. This also happens to be a course record! What an amazing way to punctuate the end of the season!

I want to thank a number of people. Veronica Otazo for taking the lead on the concession stand and helping me stay organized throughout the season. Marcos Otazo for formulating the results. Chuck Brosseau for being my timer. Lisa Brosseau organizing results and ordering track shirts. Alex Brosseau for designing the track shirt! Finally, I want to thank Mr. McBride for being an awesome co-coach. His skill, expertise, and energy have been amazing. I can’t thank you all enough for making this a fantastic season!

Obviously, most all of the success of the program comes not from us adults, but from the runners themselves. This was truly a fantastic group of kids this year. I told the runners this was one of my favorite groups to coach and I very much meant that. I speak for Mr. McBride and myself when I say that we could not have asked for a more fun season, hardworking runners, leadership all around. Every runner had something meaningful to contribute to the team. I can’t thank them enough for this. It was truly a pleasure to be part of. I hope to see many more dedicated runners for Track and Field in the spring!

Student Council President: Sanjay Geevarghese's Thank You Speech

The Student Council Officers and Classroom Representatives were sworn into their offices for the 2018-2019 school year on September 27. Sanjay Geevarghese, newly elected president of the Student Council, addressed the student body with an inspiring speech.

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Sajay Geevarghese, 8th Grade

Good Afternoon, Trinity Family! It is exciting to be here together for the beginning of this school year.

Our hearts are still heavy though. We remember what we have lost as a community, our beloved Sister Catherine. She led a life of grace, gratitude, and joy and is now with our Heavenly Father. Sister Catherine is watching over us and praying for us. Her light will forever be in our hearts and we are her legacy.

I would like to take a moment to thank Mr. Wilson for coming all the way from his Florida paradise to the Maryland blizzards to lead the school that he holds most dear. We can’t give you the amazing weather you had, but we can give you the joy of our laughter.

I am humbled and honored to have been given the opportunity to serve in student council. Congratulations to all those who have been elected and to all those who participated in school-wide and homeroom elections. Each on of us as students at Trinity School has an equal voice in the student council operation. You don’t have to be elected to lead and serve. We are all called to be servant leaders at Trinity.

With the support of Mr. Doan and Mr. Bentzley, we are determined to make this the best year possible. From getting bacon flavored candy-canes suggested by Mr. Hosford, to having a McDonald’s themed dance, here at student council, anything is possible.

Seriously, we are hoping to hear from students regularly, perhaps through surveys we can do. There will be service projects on and off campus. We will have the fundraisers we always have. Think about how your experience at Trinity can be the best. When you see a student challenge or problem, I hope we can work together to solve it. When you see a fellow student in need, I know you will be a friend who steps forward to help. That’s Trinity.

For some here, Trinity has been your home since before kindergarten. I didn’t have that fortune. I joined the school in fourth grade. I didn’t know what to expect. I still remember, on my first day of school, Alex Brousseau invited me to go play on the swings. At that moment, I realized I was at home. I have been blessed with wonderful friends and classmates here. That is Trinity: a place of grace, gratitude, and joy.

We, as Sister Catherine’s children, will carry forth these virtues in every thought, word, and action each day. Let’s make her proud. Let’s have the best year at Trinity ever!!

2018-2019 Student Council

September's Virtue of the Month: RESPECT

THE VIRTUE OF RESPECT

Be mindful that ALL people are entitled to respect because each person was made by God according to a unique plan. All of God's creatures have a right to RESPECT.

1. Give EXAMPLES of how Jesus showed respect for all people.
2. I am respectful when I...
3. How do you feel when someone does not treat you with respect?
4. In every situation remember the GOLDEN RULE: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
5. Make a LIST of how to respect YOURSELF.
6. Make a LIST of ways you respect OTHERS.
7. Make a LIST of ways you respect the ENVIRONMENT.
8. Here's a good rule to live by: Before you say anything, ask yourself: "Is it kind?" and "Is it necessary?"
9. Create a CLASS MOTO for RESPECT.

Remembering Sister Catherine Phelps SNDdeN

The Trinity School Family gratefully acknowledges the permission of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, Ohio Province, to reprint this article first posted on the SNDOhio.com website on June 19, 2018.

Sister Catherine Phelps SNDdeN
Trinity School Principal 1971-2018

Trinity School’s front entrance is particularly beautiful at this time of year. There’s a long, winding road lined with trees that form a canopy of sunlit leaves overhead. There are banners hanging from lampposts on either side, each bearing the school’s name, logo, and one of its special commitments: e.g., to be a place to learn, to pray, to explore, to play. For all comers, young and old, traveling Trinity’s entrance road is an experience of welcome, reassurance, reflection and delight. It brings to mind the words of Jesus to his disciples: “Let the children come to me!” (Cf. Luke 16:16)

Catherine Phelps was one disciple who clearly took those words to heart throughout her 66 years in the ministry of education – at St. Martin’s in Washington, DC; and at Maryvale, St. Ursula and Trinity School in the Baltimore area. Her SND teachers from 3rd grade through high school, she wrote, “had an extraordinary influence on me.” At the heart of that influence was the way they introduced young Betty Mae Phelps to their foundress, Blessed Julie. “She became an integral part of my life,” Catherine testified at the time of her Diamond Jubilee as an SND. That joyous statement was in no way an exaggeration. In fact, it is rewarding to discover how St Julie’s charism quietly inhabits the language used by professionals relatively unacquainted with our foundress to describe Catherine’s person and achievements. There is a remarkable resonance!

There is no doubt that Catherine excelled as a teacher and a principal. That excellence came to be highly regarded, not just by her ND sisters, but in the larger world of education as well - witness her induction into the Howard County Women’s Hall of Fame (2011). An article published by Baltimore’s Catholic Review Online at the time of that award begins as follows: “As president of Trinity School in Ellicott City, Sister of Notre Dame de Namur Catherine Phelps has never chased accolades.” The writer goes on to capture the vision and goals that drove Catherine’s pursuit of excellence: “My main joy and what motivates me is the children,” one quotation reads. She acknowledges the “hard work” involved, but stresses how “privileged” she feels “to be working with children in a school community” like Trinity: “It’s just a joy to see children blossom and grow every day.” “I know that I am in a position where I can create an environment that really makes children happy and helps them to thrive.” She expresses a similar understanding of her responsibilities vis-à-vis faculty and staff: “I certainly want to have that same environment for my teachers, where they can grow professionally and spiritually.”

One is reminded of St. Julie’s high regard for education as “the greatest work on earth,” her ardent desire to gather and educate children, her insistence on sound spiritual and professional formation for young women entering Notre Dame before they set foot in a classroom, and her adage: “Teach them what they need to know for life.”

Particularly with regard to education for life, the Review article emphasizes that, in Catherine’s mind, Trinity had a serious obligation to model and inculcate a strong sense of social responsibility, nurturing seeds of future leadership and service. According to the reporter, Sister Catherine wanted giving to others to become a way of life for Trinity students. Catherine’s Hall of Fame citation concurs, commending her promotion of a “culture of service” that she modeled in an exceptional way. Besides “challenging students and their families to see beyond themselves and focus on the needs of the community,” Catherine led by example. In 1973, she co-founded FISH OF HOWARD COUNTY, INC., an emergency help organization best defined by its motto, Neighbors Helping Neighbors. True to form, she didn’t just launch FISH; she invested in it for the long term, becoming a monthly FISH volunteer. She also initiated an Adopt-a-Grandparent program at St. Martin’s Home in Catonsville, to bring Trinity youngsters together with St. Martin’s “oldsters.” To help working parents, she began extended day programs, opened a preschool at Trinity and worked hard to raise funds for financial aid. She also developed JULIE PROGRAMS to provide special help for students with language-based learning differences—a reflection of her abiding desire that “the uniqueness of each student [be] recognized, accepted, and celebrated.”

Indeed, as the Hall of Fame citation declares, Catherine was a living “model of character and values for her employees and students” alike. The Catholic Review agrees: Catherine didn’t “believe she should be in her office, but amongst the children and staff,” taking her turn along with her teachers at carpool and lunchroom duty. She knew and loved “every member of the Trinity community.” And we SNDs know, of course, that all of this is exactly what St. Julie, who played such an integral part in Catherine’s life, would have wanted her to do! What a joy to imagine our foundress greeting Catherine at heaven’s door: “I saw you, my child, at Compiegne.”

The Hall of Fame citation emphasizes a number of professional awards. Under Catherine’s leadership, Trinity was one of the first seven Catholic elementary schools to earn accreditation from Middle States and the Association of Independent Maryland Schools. Twice, the US Department of Education conferred Blue Ribbon of Excellence awards on the school (1989; 1999). Catherine herself was honored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals in 1989, and, three years later, was named Educator of the Year by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce (1992).

But there is more to say. All her Notre Dame life, Catherine was “busy about many things” with amazing energy; but she never lost sight of “the one thing necessary” (Cf. Luke 10: 38-42). Liturgy was one of her special loves, and her gifts of music and prayer were put to good use in our Masses and prayer services over the years (as well as at Trinity School). She was a community woman par excellence, from her postulate and novitiate years onward. Her service on provincial committees and boards was generously and professionally given. She had a special regard for SNDs who were ill or up in years. Who can forget the Christmas gifts, cards and picnic lunches she brought to Villa Julie for the fortunate SND who had been missioned by province leadership to pray for the needs of Trinity School in any given year? Or the way Catherine in her 70’s and 80’s continued sharing her gift of song at parties and liturgies alike – long after most people her age can still carry a tune (“even in a bucket,” some would say)! Or how, in one SND’s words, Catherine was “a perfect lady, from head to toe,” simply but attractively dressed, always gracious, always warm.

We cannot forget, either, where the gifts that flowered during Catherine’s adult life in Notre Dame had been planted and nurtured. She never forgot: “I owe all the good qualities I have to my parents, especially my faith and energy to my mother, and I am grateful for the continued love and support of my sisters and brother,” she wrote in 2009, the year she celebrated 60 years as an SND. Our hearts go out to Catherine’s two sisters, Linda and Paula.

Whatever our sense of loss – and it is profound – how can we complain that this valiant woman (Proverbs 31:10), at once Martha and Mary, has so suddenly and unexpectedly moved to a better place? St. Julie would have us remember that we can still meet her in the heart of Christ. And who of us would begrudge Catherine the fullness of joy that now is hers? She has indeed “chosen the better part,” and it will never be taken away from her!

Sandy Spring Bank Trinity School Golf Classic

Sandy Spring Bank Trinity School Golf Classic
Go Get 'em Golfing PARENTS!

Hello Trinity Parents,

 

I am emailing you to invite you play in the Trinity Golf Classic next Monday, April 30th. We are playing at Hobbit's Glen Golf Club in Columbia which is a beautiful course in a lovely setting.

 

There are two things you might not know about our golf event next Monday:

 

The weather forecast calls for a bright, sunny day in the 65-70 degree range. Perfect for a day of golf!

And to make it even better - foursomes are actually $100 less than last year's price of $800.

So for $700 you and three of your best friends can have a gorgeous day of sunshine, breakfast and dinner, and lots of fun and exciting new challenges. Golf Genius is on for our players so you can keep up with everyone's scores and more importantly your foursome's score in real time! 

If you are a single golfer don't let that stop you from joining us. We always have a group of golfers without a foursome who would love to have you join them! And what a great way to get that exercise we all need!

How else can you have a great day of golf and know that you are helping to make Trinity as special and unique as your child is. 

We 💖 women golfers!  And we would 💖 to have you join us.  

 

Believe it or not, if you choose, you will be able to have your car detailed while you wait!  

 

Register and purchase sponsorships here: http://trinitygolf.dojiggy.com/ng/

Take a swing into spring!

 

Sincerely,

Renee Van Schoor

Trinity's Development Director

Inside the Trinity Studio: Mr. Brad Doan, 7th Grade Teacher

Inside the Trinity Studio

Mr. Brad Doan, 6-8th Grade Social Studies Teacher

Trinity’s PR and Marketing Committee will be featuring several articles on Trinity teachers and staff. Based on the popular Bravo TV show Inside the Actor’s Studio starring James Lipton, our version called Inside the Trinity Studio will highlight a select group of faculty members by asking the subject 10 questions requiring one-word answers. It is challenging for the interviewee and fun for the reader. We hope you enjoy this interesting look at one of Trinity’s leaders, Mr. Brad Doan, 6th-8th grade Social Studies teacher. 

Mr. Doan was interviewed by Tracey Stone, a Trinity School parent.

 Date of interview: April 16, 2018

What is your favorite word? HIJINKS
What is your least favorite word? BILGE
What is your idea of earthly happiness? FRIENDSHIP
What do you value the most in your friends? LOYALTY
Who would you have liked to be? BOWIE
What sound or noise do you love? ZEPPELIN
What sound or noise do you hate? SCRATCHING
Who are your favorite characters in history? LINCOLN, EINSTEIN, T. ROOSEVELT
Who are your favorite fictional heroes? GANDALF, YODA, WOLVERINE
What would like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? NIIIICE

Trinity School is located on 48 beautiful acres in Howard County, Maryland. Trinity is a Preschool through Grade 8 independent, Catholic, co-ed school. Trinity is a two time blue ribbon award winner and is sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur.

WWW.TRINITYSCHOOLMD.ORG

April's Virtue of the Month: PEACE

THE VIRTUE OF PEACE

On the night before he died, Jesus left us the gift of PEACE when he said to his disciples, "Peace is my farewell to you, my peace is my gift to you."

A gift is not a gift until a person has accepted it.

Have you accepted the GIFT OF PEACE?

Wherever you are, you should be a peacemaker - at home, at school, on the playground, at basketball, in the cafeteria, in your neighborhood.

Do you contribute to conflict by encouraging others who are disturbing the peace?

• Do you say things that make people upset?
• Are you uncooperative at play?
• Do you think the rules are for everybody except you?
• Do you take a fair share of responsibility for chores at home?

Take these words as your motto: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Think of ways that YOU may be an INSTRUMENT of peace.

• Take turns
• Say only respectful words to one another
• Keep the rules
• Always cooperate
• Be responsible for your actions
• Always do your part at home and at school
• Never encourage those who are causing conflict
• When there is a problem, try to bring about a peaceful solution
• If the problem continues, seek appropriate help

Inside the Trinity Studio: Ms. Cynthia Morgan, PreK Teacher

Inside the Trinity Studio

Ms. Cynthia Morgan, Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Trinity’s PR and Marketing Committee will be featuring several articles on Trinity teachers and staff. Based on the popular Bravo TV show Inside the Actor’s Studio starring James Lipton, our version called Inside the Trinity Studio will highlight a select group of faculty members by asking the subject 10 questions requiring one-word answers. It is challenging for the interviewee and fun for the reader. We hope you enjoy this interesting look at one of Trinity’s leaders, Ms. Cynthia Morgan, PreK teacher. 

Ms. Morgan was interviewed by Arlen Reyes, a Trinity School parent.

 Date of interview: February 28, 2018

What is your favorite word? DOBERMAN

What is your least favorite word? HATE

What is your idea of earthly happiness? LOVE

What do you value the most in your friends? SUPPORT

Who would you have liked to be? YO-YO MA (Cellist)

What sound or noise do you love? STRING INSTRUMENTS

What sound or noise do you hate? ALARM CLOCK

Who are your favorite characters in history? DALAI LAMA, MOTHER THERESA

Who are your favorite fictional heroes? ANNE FROM ANNE OF GREEN GABLES

What would like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? WELCOME HOME

March's Virtue of the Month: SELF-CONTROL

THE VIRTUE OF SELF-CONTROL

Self-control is saying "no" to yourself and "YES" to something greater.

Setting GOALS for yourself helps you to practice self-control.

• Example: You have a goal to achieve an A in a subject. So you choose to study for a test rather than watch TV.

Self-control means doing the right thing whether you feel like it or not.

• Self-control is also understood as self-discipline and self-regulation.

All good traits of character are founded on self-control.

A person needs self-control to:

• Sit still and listen
• Control your temper and tongue
• Respect others and their belongings
• Eat moderately and healthy
• Persevere to get work done
• Moderate internet surfing and gaming

Self-control is when my "self" is controlled by the Holy Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23

Watch your thoughts,
They become your words.
Watch your words,
They become your actions,

Watch your actions,
They become your habits.
Watch your habits,
They become your character.
Watch your character,
It becomes your destiny.

Lenten Lunch-Making

By: Sister Catherine

Mrs. Eileen Leaman, alum parent and graduate of Trinity School and the former Trinity Prep High School, has dedicated much of her adult life working with the homeless. One of the shelters that she supports is a shelter for homeless men on the grounds of Spring Grove in Catonsville, Maryland. Trinity School has joined Miss Eileen during Lent making lunches for the homeless shelter in Catonsville. Miss Eileen shares with the students what it means to be homeless and how people find themselves homeless for different reasons. She teaches the students how to make a sandwich and forms an assembly line for packaging sandwiches and such as filling the lunch bags with snacks and napkins.

While sandwich-making is in process, younger students decorate the lunch bags with bright colors and touching words, such as God loves you - Bless you - God is with you - Be positive. On each sandwich bag is a post-it with a cheerful message to the recipient. Miss Eileen ends the session by sharing pictures of the shelter, how they celebrate birthdays (often with the first birthday cake ever received) and finally a prayer for the homeless. It is an enriching and spiritual experience for everyone.

Inside the Trinity Studio: Mrs. Virginia O'Malley, 4th Grade Teacher

Inside the Trinity Studio

Mrs. Virginia O'Malley, 4th Grade Teacher

Trinity’s PR and Marketing Committee will be featuring several articles on Trinity teachers and staff. Based on the popular Bravo TV show Inside the Actor’s Studio starring James Lipton, our version called Inside the Trinity Studio will highlight a select group of faculty members by asking the subject 10 questions requiring one-word answers. It is challenging for the interviewee and fun for the reader. We hope you enjoy this interesting look at one of Trinity’s leaders, Mrs. Virginia O'Malley, 4th grade teacher.

Mrs. O'Malley was interviewed by Kathy Bestany, a Trinity School grandparent.

 Date of interview: February 14, 2018

1. What is your favorite word? FAMILY
2. What is your least favorite word? SUCK
3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally? NO BOUNDARIES
4. What turns you off creatively, spiritually or emotionally? RESTRICTIONS
5. What is your favorite curse word? "OH FOR PETE'S SAKE" or "GOOD GRIEF"
6. What sound or noise do you love? GIGGLES
7. What sound or noise do you hate? CRASHING OF CAR METAL
8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? EDITOR OF THE WASHINGTON POST
9. What profession would you not like to do? JUDGE
10. What would like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? YOUR MOTHER, FATHER, SISTER AND BROTHER WELCOME YOU

February's Virtue of the Month: COURAGE

          THE VIRTUE OF COURAGE

COURAGE is having the strength to do what we need to do.

COURAGE is when we go ahead when we are afraid.

COURAGE is needed when there are things we have to change, especially if we know it will affect other people and there is a possibility that they won't like what we are doing.

There are many kinds of true courage:

• Courage that stays cool and calm in troubled times
• Courage that stands up for what is right
• Courage of trusting according to your faith in God
• Courage of trusting yourself and refusing to follow the crowd when the crowd is wrong.

Another name for COURAGE is FORTITUDE. It is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, so you have it. Do you use it?

In your own words, write one sentence that says what courage is.

Give three reasons why courage is important.

Name two people you think have shown courage and say why.

Name three instances when the virtue of COURAGE is needed.

Jesus once said to his disciples who were caught in stormy waters in a boat:

Have COURAGE, it is I.

Inside the Trinity Studio: Mr. Rob McBride, PE Teacher

Inside the Trinity Studio: Mr. Rob McBride, PE Teacher

Trinity’s PR and Marketing Committee will be featuring several articles on Trinity teachers and staff. Based on the popular Bravo TV show Inside the Actor’s Studio starring James Lipton, our version called Inside the Trinity Studio will highlight a select group of faculty members by asking the subject 10 questions requiring one-word answers. It is challenging for the interviewee and fun for the reader. We hope you enjoy this interesting look at one of Trinity’s leaders, Mr. Rob McBride, PE teacher. 

Mr. McBride was interviewed by Margaret Timberlake, a Trinity School parent.

Date of interview: November 1, 2017

1.    What is your favorite word? COMMITMENT

2.    Where would you like to live? IRELAND

3.    Who is your favorite musician? JIMMY BUFFET

4.    Who is your favorite fictional hero? ROCKY BALBOA

5.    Who is your favorite real-life hero? MY DAD

6.    What sound or noise do you hate? NAILS ON A CHALKBOARD

7.    What sound or noise do you love? LAUGHTER

8.    What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? PGA GOLF PRO

9.    What do you most value in friends? RESPECT

10. What would like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? YOU STILL LOOK GOOD!

Mr. McBride's favorites: Blue, football, Eagles or Notre Dame, St. Patrick's Day

January's Virtue of the Month: HONESTY

          THE VIRTUE OF HONESTY

When you think of someone's reputation, you usually think of his or her HONESTY. Very early on, you will be identified by classmates as an honest or dishonest person. When people know you are honest they will like you, rely on you, and want to be around you. No one wants to be around a liar. So it is very important that you guard your honest reputation.

An HONEST person always speaks the truth.

HONEST persons:

~ Tell the truth despite the consequences.

~ Do their own homework.

~ Write a report without copying.

~ Return things that he/she borrowed.

You are being honest when you...

~ Tell a friend the truth
~ Keep your eyes on your own paper
~Clean up your room after making a promise
~ Give the cashier the extra money she gave you by mistake
~ Keep a friend's secret
~ Admit you made a mistake
~Turn in a wallet full of money that you found

Honesty is being sincere, truthful, trustworthy, honorable, fair, genuine, and loyal with integrity.

You guard your honest reputation by constantly practicing honesty. Like any other habit, honesty must be cultivated. The more you do it, the more it becomes a part of your nature. HOW WILL YOU PRACTICE HONESTY THIS WEEK?

HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY