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The Madison Hotel, Convent Station, was setting for the Morris Catholic
Second Annual Gala Dinner for Alumni and Alumni Parents on Thursday, October
24th. Over 100 guests joined together to celebrate the achievements and
contributions of distinguished alumni and alumni parents. This year's
honorees included alumni, Susan Zibura Marcello '61 and Gary Marcello '62 of
Boonton. Robert Duphiney of Parsippany was honored as an outstanding alumni
parent.
The evening began with an opening prayer and remarks by Bishop Frank Rodimer
who
applauded Morris Catholic for its rich legacy and fine academic and
spiritual formation programs. Bishop Rodimer then present director, Father
Paul Manning, with a check for $ 25,000 to be used for the school's new
security system. These funds, earmarked for capital improvements, are part
of the allocated $ 500,000 for each diocesan high school, made possible
through the Prepare the Way Campaign.
Seniors, Jenny Hoatson of West Orange, and Dana Toriello of Parsippany,
entertained the audience with solo selections. Both young ladies are
members of the "MC Singers," an awarding-winning vocal group directed by
music teacher, Mr. Paul Fogle. Mr. Fogle also treated the audience to a
handsome rendition of "Danny Boy." As dessert was served, guests joined
together to sing "Happy Birthday" to Bishop Rodimer and wish him blessings
and good health in the year to come. Monsignor Raymond Kupke, a Morris
Catholic alumnus, provided a historical reflection on Morris Catholic's
traditions and heritage. Father Dennis Hogan, also an alumnus, spoke
sincerely of his humorous recollections of student life at MC during the
early 1960s.
The highlight of the Gala was the presentation of the Sister Joan of Arc
Awards to this year's honorees. These awards are named in honor of Sister
Joan of Arc Ciccarelli, S.C.C., principal of MCHS from 1961 - 1969. She was
well known for her no-nonsense style of leadership as well as her
contributions to Catholic education. Father Paul presented the award statue
to the Marcello's, noting their dedication and strong ties to MCHS both as
students and as parents. Upon presenting the award to Bob Duphiney, Father
Paul commended him on his work on Morris Catholic's Educational Council and
Finance Committee as well as his spiritual commitment to the school and St.
Christopher Parish.
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