Adopt-A-Student gala to change format and location

On April 25 supporters of Catholic schools will gather in person once again at a recognition reception and fundraiser for Adopt-a-Student. But this year will feature a new format at a new venue, Saint Paul Diocesan Jr./Sr. High School.
“For years, prior to the pandemic, we recognized our student scholars at a formal banquet held in the magnificent setting of Mechanics Hall,” said David Perda, superintendent of Catholic schools. “This year the committee was interested in offering a new format that would continue to recognize our individual students and also showcase the Saint Paul campus including the updates to the Burke Center auditorium and the school facility in general.”
 For 34 years, the Adopt-A-Student scholarship program has been providing financial assistance to income-eligible students for the program’s stated mission “to change a life.” Since its inception, more than 1,300 scholarships have been awarded totaling more than $4.2 million.
Proceeds from the annual dinners, as well as from this year’s recognition reception, are a major funding source for these scholarships.
 “Our committee and I, along with the students and their families, appreciate greatly the impact this program has had on changing lives by offering families an option of a Catholic education,” said Bishop McManus, host for the evening’s event. “It is my fervent hope that this recognition reception will have a wonderful show of support as the need for financial aid is so great.”
Superintendent Perda echoed the need for more financial aid.     
“System-wide we are only able to address 28% of the demonstrated financial need of our families in Catholic schools,” he said. “This program is really making a difference for families that want to have the option of a Catholic school education for their child at either St. Peter Central Catholic Elementary School or Saint Paul Diocesan Jr./Sr. High School.”
As people arrive on April 25, they will have a chance to socialize and enjoy light refreshments. The program will begin in the auditorium at 6:30. Though the formal program is expected to be brief, it will include a tribute to Robert (Bob) Pape who dedicated many years as the chairman of the program and who died in 2022 at the age of 83. It will also recognize student scholars for their academic achievement, community service and leadership and be an opportunity to hear from former students who benefited from the program.
The new format will also offer complementary valet parking at the high school at 114 Granite St.  There will be a reception with food stations, hors d’oeuvres and complimentary wine and beer. Unlike a sit-down dinner, this will offer everyone the opportunity to continue to talk with other supporters of Catholic schools, including sponsors, Adopt-a-Student alumni, Catholic school teachers and administration. Student musicians will also be featured throughout the evening.
 
– For information about sponsorships, advertising opportunities and tickets email Jeannie MacDonough in the Catholic Schools Office at jmacdonough@worcesterdiocese.org, or at www.adopt-a-student.net.