The Holy Cross High School family gathered together as eight individuals and one athletic team were inducted into the Crusader Hall of Honor for their achievements and contributions to Holy Cross and/or their local communities. In addition, two faculty members and one volunteer were also recognized for their years of service and excellence. Vice President for Student Life, Mike Giampetruzzi '95 served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.

Following an emotional a capella rendition of the National Anthem by Meghan Leger '13, Interim President, Paul G. Geise officially kicked off the evening's festivities. "I am honored and humbled to welcome all of you to this very special evening," he said in his opening remarks. "Tonight, Holy Cross takes a moment to cite the exemplary and extraordinary among us; to recognize and celebrate those whose service to our school has elevated all of us... We all have been changed for good because of the mastery, artistry, passion, compassion, drive and devotion of our honorees."

Mackenzie Demac, Chief of Staff at the Office of Mayor Neil M. O'Leary addressed the attendees on behalf of the Mayor. "As the Holy Cross family and the broader Waterbury community continues to celebrate Holy Cross High School's 50^th Anniversary this year, tonight's event is a reminder and a testament to the wonderful Holy Cross alumni, teachers, administrators and friends who together contributed so much to the city of Waterbury. On behalf of the Mayor, I would like to extend warm congratulations to those individuals who will be inducted into the Hall of Honor tonight."

"What are we (Holy Cross) about?" said Brother Thomas Dziekan, C.S.C. "We bring hope by changing the world through Christ's love. We build respect within each other. We inspire integrity of heart and mind by being true to the Gospel in word and action. And we celebrate family by building a loving Holy Cross community. This evening, we celebrate those who have lived those values and continue to live those values."

The inductees for the evening included: Carmen P. Giampetruzzi '82, Lt. Col. Gralyn Harris '77 (both recipients of the Crusader Award), Sandra Vigliotti Senich '82 (recipient of The Saint Andre Bessette Award), Br. Tom Dziekan, C.S.C, Sr. Pat Jamele, Margaret Leger, Amadeo Rinaldi (all recipients of the The Blessed Father Basil Moreau Award), Dr. Robert Porzio '72 (recipient of The Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Award) and The 1988 Varsity Boys' Basketball Team (recipients of The Green and Gold Award).

The Crusader Award honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself during his/her time at Holy Cross. The Saint Andre Bessette Award honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself in life after high school. The Blessed Father Basil Moreau Award honors a coach, teacher, administrator or staff member for their stand-out, outstanding service to Holy Cross. The Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Award honors the contributions of the loyal friends of Holy Cross. The Green and Gold Award honors teams that have brought respect and honor to Holy Cross High School because of their outstanding accomplishments while in high school

Other accomplishments were celebrated at this event. Long-time Theology teacher and recent retiree, Dennis Killian was celebrated for his 33 years of service. Science teacher, Nicholas Lauzon, was honored as Holy Cross's Educator of the Year. MaryAnn Dzinski '84 received The Father Francis Grogan Service Award, honoring an individual, from our school community for her loyal and dedicated service. A special moment of silence was given for 2016 Crusader Hall of Honor inductee, Tony Hansen '73 who recently passed away.

For the first time, Holy Cross High School students, faculty, and alumni participated in Movember. The school joined many others to support the Movember Foundation, which supports the goal of "making a difference for men's health- in prostrate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention."

Holy Cross created a team that included more than 40 members. it was led by Steve Druan '10 and Andrew Shea '06. Together, they raised $1,245.00. In addition, the Holy Cross school community raised over $400 to add to our team. On November 30th, the Holy Cross Movember team had raised $1,800.00 to donate to the Movember Foundation. The school looks forward to continuing to increase participation and awareness next Movember.

Brother Thomas A. Dziekan, C.S.C. Provincial Superior of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Moreau Province has appointed Dr. Thomas C. Pellegrino as the next President of Holy Cross High School commencing July 1, 2019. As the chief administrator of Holy Cross High School, Dr. Pellegrino will work with the current school leadership to maintain and strengthen the school's Catholic identity and character.He will also be responsible for strengthening its relationship and connection to the more than 25 schools, high schools, colleges and universities sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross in the United States and the more than 75 Holy Cross schools and colleges worldwide.

"Holy Cross High School is a ministry of the Congregation of Holy Cross and is sponsored by the Moreau Province," said Brother Thomas Dziekan. "From his experience, Dr. Pellegrino is the perfect person to lead the school and build on its foundation in the values, traditions, spirituality and history of the Congregation of Holy Cross."

The appointment of Dr. Pellegrino was made on the recommendation of the Board of Directors of Holy Cross High School which concluded a year-long national search conducted by a Presidential Search committee. This committee was composed of members of the Board of Directors, representatives of the Congregation of Holy Cross, faculty, and parents.

"The Board of Directors is extremely thankful to the Search Committee and everyone who played an active role in the search process," said Kevin McSherry '75, Chair of the Board of Directors. "Several individuals from our school community had an active hand in choosing our next President. The Board is confident that Dr. Pellegrino will be instrumental in the school's next evolution."

"I am honored and humbled to be chosen as Holy Cross High School's next president," says Pellegrino. "Coming from the college ranks, I have long respected and admired Holy Cross High School.I am inspired by the school's Catholic heritage, its commitment to the holistic development of its students as inspired by the Congregation of Holy Cross, and its dedication to the broader Holy Cross family and surrounding community.In the same way that Holy Cross's students are encouraged by Blessed Basil Moreau, I am also committed to bringing a sense of devotion, watchfulness and perseverance to the role of President."

Dr. Pellegrino comes to Holy Cross after nearly fifteen years in higher education administration.He brings an extensive background in strategic planning, mission leadership, student development, conflict resolution, staff development, external relations, project management and fundraising. Since 2004, he has served in a number of roles at Fairfield University including Senior Vice President for Student Affairs, a special assignment as University Coordinator for Mission & Identity and most recently as Special Assistant to the President. He was also an adjunct faculty member in Fairfield University's Dolan School of Business.

Prior to his time in higher education, Dr. Pellegrino was an attorney with Clendenen & Shea, LLC in New Haven, CT. He is a graduate of Syracuse University College of Law (Juris Doctor) and University of Connecticut (Ph.D., Higher Education Administration).Dr. Pellegrino lives with his wife Carla and son Chris in Madison, Connecticut.

Please click here to download the midterm exam schedule.

Dr. Kristaps Keggi, MD, Professor Emeritus and Senior Research Scientist for Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation for Yale School of Medicine, visited Holy Cross High School and addressed students from the science and psychology classes.

Born in Latvia, Dr. Keggi arrived in the United States at age fifteen and entered Yale University less than two years later. He had two years of General Surgical training in New York and two years in the Army as an Orthopaedic Surgeon (one of these two years in a Mobile Surgical Hospital in Vietnam). He has been an Attending Orthopaedic Surgeon at both St. Mary's Hospital (1969-1989) and Waterbury Hospital (1969-2018). Dr. Keggi has been associated with Yale University as a student, resident, clinical and full time faculty member. The latter part of his career has been devoted to hip replacement surgery, a field in which he is considered to be the pioneer of the anterior, tissue sparing approach.

During his presentation, Dr. Keggi shared his early experiences of fleeing from Germany during World War II, his many years of medical training and his advice to those pursuing a medical career.

"In order to be a physician, you really need to have a burning desire for taking care of people," said Dr. Keggi to the students. "You need to be happy doing it."

Many of our students were profoundly affected by Dr. Keggi's story including Jenny Lin '19. She said, "For me, Dr. Keggi conveys that our worse adversities can be our greatest blessings because possibilities are endless, even the ones that are disguised as impossible."

"It amazed me was that he went to Yale on a full scholarship," said Lauren Raad '19. "The level of intellect that one must possess to simply get accepted into the University is off the charts, but to receive a full scholarship at such a prestigious school is unbelievable. As he discussed how hard he studied and worked, it inspired me to work harder in school."

"I have always known about Dr. Keggi because I am a physical therapist in the (Waterbury) area," said science teacher, Kathryn Harnish. "I've always appreciated him and looked up to him. I also have his grandson, Alex Ford '19 in my class."

Science Department Chair Erik Lanese immediately saw the benefit and privilege of Dr. Keggi's visit. He commented, "I am so appreciative that Dr. Kristaps Keggi, a medical legend and true innovator in science/technology, shared his lifetime of experiences to inspire and motivate our students to look deep within themselves and explore what possibilities are in their futures."

Dr. Keggi's visit coincided nicely with Mrs. Harnish's Anatomy & Physiology lesson plans. Her students had just finished studying the joints, the muscles and the bones. It was a great opportunity, especially for the seniors since they are currently making choices about where they will go to college. Many of them are taking Anatomy because they want a career in medicine.

"Overall, I thought Dr. Keggi made some great points about the process it takes to pursue your desired career," said Kayla Beauvais '19. "I found his story very inspiring especially since I will be attending college soon, and will experience lots of hard work."

"I was extremely intrigued and was satisfied with the presentation," said Nate Donofrio '19. "Not only was it an interesting story, but Dr. Keggi gave insight to the medical world and the vast variety of the different opportunities life throws at you. What I learned from Dr. Keggi is that you should take opportunities as they come to you because you never know what it will lead you to."

"I tell my kids all the time that you are going to recreate yourself four or five times over," said Mrs. Harnish. "It's your experiences that will define who you are. Those experiences never stop."

Singer Nicole Zuraitis '03 has accomplished many dreams in a very short amount of time. The Manhattan-based musician has collaborated with several artists, released multiple CDs and toured nationally and internationally. However, most recently, she achieved one of the top honors that any musician can aspire. She and her husband Dan Pugach were nominated for a Grammy Award in the arrangement category for their version of Dolly Parton's classic song, "Jolene."

"It still feels a little surreal," said Nicole. "We are just happy to be nominated."

Nicole was one of the last people to find out about this achievement. On the morning of Grammy nomination announcements, she and her husband slept in. She woke up to numerous text messages. She assumed the texts were related to a holiday party that she was supposed to attend later that evening.

"I didn't answer back," she said. "Finally, a friend of mine screenshot and sent me a photo of my nomination. I'm still in shock."

"Jolene," a famous country music standard, holds a special place in Nicole's heart. Her mother is a huge fan of the song. In 2009, Nicole recorded the song with her own jazz-influenced arrangement. Husband Dan later re-orchestrated and rearranged it for a performance at Waterbury's Palace Theater as a surprise to both Nicole and her mother. The husband and wife team have been performing the song ever since. The Grammy-nominated version of the song can currently be found on the record, Plus One by the Dan Pugach Nonet. The piece is currently arranged for nine pieces including six horns.

Nicole recalls the first time she heard the song. "I was living on Martha's Vineyard after college," she said. "My friend, Mary played it for me while we were riding in the car. The lyrics really spoke to me. I listened to it over and over again. I went home to my piano and pumped out my own version of it."

Nicole always had a love for music. She came to Holy Cross because of its excellent music department under the direction of then music-directors Joseph Jacovino and Carol Gustafson. Both made a huge impact on Nicole. "I found my people with the music and theater kids," she said. "The music department was so strong and supportive. I always felt at home there. Pursuing a career in music didn't seem like such a crazy idea. It brought me joy." Nicole went on to study opera at New York University. However, her true passion was jazz.

According to her official website, Nicole "blends clever songwriting skills, an effervescent presence and dazzling vocals in a consummate package that has thrilled audiences across Manhattan and across the world."

"I'm proud of myself," said Nicole. "Making music is what I aspire to do. To survive as a musician in New York City, you need to have little steps and goals to fulfill. At first, I wanted to land some pay-to-play gigs. Then, I wanted to play weddings. I was eventually hired as a keyboard player and learned how to play on the job. Then, I wanted to do a residency at a jazz club. I headlined at the Blue Note and currently maintain residencies at the 55 Bar in Greenwich Village. From there, I wanted to tour, Then, I wanted an agent. Then, I wanted to play Birdland. Then, I wanted to play internationally. This year, I wanted a Grammy."

Nicole and Dan need your help during the Grammy voting season. If any members of the Holy Cross High School community are Recording Academy voting members, please consider listening to the recording at www.nicolezmusic.com/grammy

The Holy Cross High School community celebrated the true meaning of Christmas by spearheading a number of service-related projects. These brought some holiday cheer to those less fortunate. Since Thanksgiving, students donated clothing, toys and food to a number of local organizations.

"While service and compassion toward others is a well-honed habit at Holy Cross, I nonetheless continue to be inspired and impressed by the Holy Cross hearts of our students," said President Paul G. Geise. "In Moreau's words, 'With eyes of faith consider the greatness of your mission and the wonderful amount of good which you can accomplish.'"

Below are the student-led Christmas service projects.

Stockings for Seniors

Student Activities and Campus Ministry delivered 110 stockings to the residents and rehab patients of Apple Rehab Center in Watertown, CT. The stockings contained many items including crossword puzzles, playing cards, lotions, toiletries, socks and stuffed animals. "We love visiting the residents of Apple Rehab," said Meg Dwyer '05, Director of Student Activities. "The resident's eyes light up when our students hand deliver the stockings to their rooms."

The Giving Tree

Campus Ministry took the lead on this school-wide initiative. Ornaments containing the Christmas wish lists of local children were displayed on a tree in the school's front foyer. Holy Cross students and families picked an ornament off the tree and bought the listed item. All gifts were delivered to the Children's Community School in Waterbury. "We collected more than 30 gifts," said Kyle Piatak, Director of Campus Ministry. "These included Lego Duplos, dolls, action figures, slime-kits and more. A number of children are going to be so happy on Christmas Day when they receive these tokens of care."

Project Warmth

The Class of 2018 collected and donated over 100 jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, hats and gloves to Wellmore Behavioral Health and Acts 4 Ministries in Waterbury, CT. "This project has been successfully run by the senior class for the last ten years," said Ms. Dwyer. "It is another way for us to ensure that members of the Greater Waterbury area receive the essential items for the winter season."

Holy Cross High School is proud to announce that the following students have achieved honor roll status for the 2018-2019 second marking period.

Senior Class

First Honors: Natasha Angel, Kayla Beauvais, Domenic Bernard, Joseph Bonvicini, Victoria Cammarata, Marie Allysa Cayabyab, Yuxuan Chen, Gabrielle Cherubino, Lingxiao Cui, Carley DeFoe, Meghan Diorio, Julia Dzinski, McKenna Ellsworth, Julia Flynn, Vincent Graziano, William Greene, Elvira Guerrero, Jeremy Hamel, Lauren Hamilton, Julia Joyce, Annie Kinsella, Jenny Lin, Krystal Liu, Ziyuan Liu, Nicole Madrid, Samuel Mason, Valerie Nobrega, Jordan Richard, Jasmine Thorpe, Ja'Lin Waters, Lin Xu, Kingsten Zenick, An'ge Zhao, Zelong Rex Zheng, Jake Zinno & Timothy Zupkus

Second Honors: Amy Bosques, Benjamin Bowler, Austin Brown, Olivia Burns, Benson Chen, Emma D'Ambruoso, David Desaulniers, Nathaniel Donofrio, Mitchell Duyck, Alexander Ford, Christopher Ford, Jayden Frageau, Nadia French-Graham, Mary Gillette, Connor Goggin, John Goggin, Owen Hernandez, Bryanna Hooker, James Lanese, Zachary Lerner, Jacob Mahler, Dante Malaspina, Zorri McCray, Megan McHale, Kyle Moser, Morgan Murray, Madeline O'Connor, Adalisse Padilla, Sage Parker, Colleen Pelletier, Elise Pelletier, Camille Perron, Nicholas Pietrorazio, Lauren Raad, Jack Schiavone, Aaron Selenica, Wyatt Shea-Levandoski, Andre Stevenson, Thomas Thorpe, Alessandro Ward, Fiona Xhafi & Ferris You

Junior Class

First Honors: Casuarina Arute, Max Blaschke, John Boushie, Alex Burrows, Christopher Christiano, Randall Desaulniers, Roxhensa Dilolli, Norah Dreher, Ahmed Elgendy, Nathan Erdtmann, Michael Famiglietti, Adam Fernandes, Nicholas Frappier, Tara Garden, Reece Geddes, Katelyn Honegger, Jason Lin, Yiying Lin, Yanhong Liu, Brandi McIntosh, Alyssa Milburn, Jenna Mowad, William Palomba, Vini Pasholli, Jack Paulin, Julia Petrokaitis, Cameron Rivers, Sabrina Santopietro, Victoria Schaffner, Xinyang Serena Sun, Brooke Tymosko, Christopher Wihbey, Pengxiang Xia & Xiang Yin

Second Honors: Shawn Austin, Brandon Barron, Michael Capodanno, Luciano D'Amelio, William D'Avino, Elizabeth Diorio, Cole Foster, Nicholas Galasso, John Greene, Samuel Henderlite, Natalie Kirby, Justin Miller, Aidan Nixon, Omofolade Olusanya, Thomas Pompei, Qichen Qian, Brian Silva, Jack Villano & Junyan Xue

Sophomore Class

First Honors: Robert Anchini, Tatanya Bailey, Kyle Burns, Grace Cleveland, Schuyler Cummings, Colette D'Alessandre, Michael Dane, Jenna DeBiase, Christina Failla, Julianne Filippone, Jacob Hogrefe, Jenna Hulstrunk, Matthew Keating, Elsa Kollcinaku, Joshua Lee, Armani Mayes, BriAnna McConnell, Cassidy McNeil, Cara Melchionne, Samantha Miller, Guiseppe Mongelluzzo, Sean Moran, Delia Murphy, Vesa Prevalla, Raquel Rosa, Victoria Rosales, Alyssa Sarracco, Gabriele Smith, Andrew White & Brayden Wihbey

Second Honors: Joseph Antonazzo, Riley Becker, Seamas Bowler, Benjamin Brodeur, Paydon Bushka, Brooke Coletti, Juliana DelPriore, Diego Flores, Dmitriy Fogie, Justin Forino, Raffaele Gagliardi, Gennaro Genua, Jaeden Hunt, Casey Hurbon, Jacob Janatiss, Alexandra Jannetty, Evan Kaczmarek, Ethan LaFountain, Tanner Linhard, Sydney McIntosh, Matthew Minutillo, Rashaun Mitchell, Liam Moran, Jacob Myers, Lydia Perron, Paige Santopietro, William Tucker, Cassidy Williams, Alec Zappone & Luke Zipoli

Freshman Class

First Honors: Cyril Balatbat, Matthew Barrett, Aryanna Carter, Alyssa Colangelo, Thomas Galusha, Garrett Girgasky, Arianna Gove, Grace Graziano, Ashley Harris, Charlotte Henderlite, Benjamin Mason, Jonathan Melgar, Avery O'Connell, Maeve Perrone, Grace Persaud, Alexander Regan, Lance Regan, Jordan Rosario, Thomas Salvador, Michael Shaker, Elizabeth Titley & Emma Wheeler

Second Honors: Brandon Anelli, Parker Antilla, Mason Artman, Lyvia Bartoli, Matthew Berthel, Logan Bessette, Marley Bonderenko, Isabella Bugaytsova, Devon Bushka, Caiden Charette, Luke Daddona, Alexa Diorio, Tyler Doherty, Andreas Effes, Jameson Fauth, Javin Frageau, Abigail Galasso, Dorian Goroveci, Brianna Greenlaw, Luca Guerrera, Rachael Honegger, Cayla Howard, Jordan Irizarry, Eliza Maloney, Isabella Marzano, Grant Mowad, Brielle Myers, James Quicquaro, Robert Rosko, Samuel Summerfield, Jenna Tymosko, Lexi White, Olivia White & Chase Zaccagnini

Holy Cross Student Theatre Spring Musical 2019

Big Fish The Musical

Book: John August

Performances: May 3rd and 4th, 2019; 7:30pm

Auditions:

February 11th - 1:30-3:30pm, Dance/Movement 7:00-9:00pm, Sing/Read

February 12th - 1:30-3:30pm, Dance/Movement, 7:00-9:00pm, Sing/Read

Rehearsals Begin: Monday, February 25th

We are excited to announce this next musical theater project for 2019! We are looking for students who sing, act, dance, play instruments, tumble, juggle; also need those who design/create, paint, build, and work with sound, lighting, graphics, and costuming. If you have ANY interest or skills/talents in any of those things, please come be a part of this production!

Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish centers on Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest... and then some! Edward's incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him – most of all, his devoted wife Sandra. But their son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father's epic tales. Overflowing with heart, humor and spectacular stagecraft, Big Fish is an extraordinary new Broadway musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre – for an experience that's richer, funnier and BIGGER than life itself.

You can sign-up beginning Friday, February 1st, outside the music room. See Mr. Lewis for further details, or with any questions.

For the auditions you must:

• 1.Prepare 16-48 bars of a vocal selection from Big Fish, or similar style to the music of the show.

• 2.Read selected script passages from the show; this will be provided to you at auditions.

• 3.Attend the DANCE specific audition on Tuesday, Feb. 12th, 1:30-3:30pm to work briefly with our choreographer. Wear shoes/clothes that you can move comfortably in.

Act Two

Auditions/Rehearsal Framework - February to May 2019

February

2/11Auditions - 1:30-3:30pm, Sing/Read; 7:00-9pm, Sing/Read

2/12Auditions - 1:30-3:30pm, Dance/Movement; 7:00-9pm, Sing/Read 2/25Music - 1:30-3:30

2/26Dance - 1:30-3:00

March

3/4Music - 1:30-3:30

3/5Dance - 1:30-3:30

3/12Dance - 1:30-3:30; Music - 7-9pm 3/14Music - 1:30-3:30

3/19Dance - 1:30-3:30; Music - 7-9pm 3/21Music - 7-9pm

3/23Music/Dance/Blocking - 9am-12:30pm 3/26 Dance - 1:30-3:30

3/28Blocking - 1:30-3:30

April

4/1Blocking - 1:30-3:30

4/2Music/Dance - 1:30-3:30 4/8Music/Blocking - 1:30-3:30 4/9Dance/Blocking - 1:30-3:30

4/11Blocking Review - 1:30-3:30

(the following 3 rehearsals are during the vacation week)

4/16 Run Act 1 - 10am-2pm 4/17 Run Act 2 - 10am-2pm 4/18 Run Show - 10am-2pm

4/23Review/Clean - 6-9:30pm 4/25Review/Clean - 6-9:30pm

Tech Week

4/28Tech Sunday - 1-6pm 4/29Tech - 6-9:30pm

4/30Tech - 6-9:30pm 5/1Tech - 6-9:30pm

5/2Dress Rehearsal - 6-9:30pm 5/3Show #1 - 7:30 (5:30 call)

5/4Show #2 - 7:30 (5:30 call) (strike/production day TBD)

The Holy Cross community kicked off Super Bowl weekend by doing what they do best – giving back to those in need. Students and faculty donated over 800 cans of soup and non-perishable items as part of the Annual Soup-Er Bowl Can Drive. "The Athletic Council did a great job in leading this project," said Megan Dwyer '05, Director of Student Activities. "All donated items will be going to St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen in Waterbury. Participation was amazing this year. We had a very high percentage of students and faculty who graciously donated."

Congratulations to Alex Ward '19 who will play Division II Football at Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), starting in the fall of 2019. "SCSU is my first choice," said Alex who plans to be a Business major. "It fits me the best academically and athletically. It is also a place where I can grow as a man."

Alex began as a football player during his freshmen year at Holy Cross. He immediately fell in love with it. It gave him a chance to be part of a team. It also served as a mental and physical outlet. During his senior year, he had 153 carries, 1276 yards rushing (8.3 yards/carry) and 18 touchdowns.

"Alex is a hard worker," said Mike Giampetruzzi '95, Vice President for Student Life and Varsity Football Coach. "He is a true program guy. He did everything for the team. He is a leader that the younger guys can look up to."

"My teammates are so supportive," said Alex. "I look up to some of them, and some of them look up to me. I always ask them for input. I grew especially close to (classmates) Matt Judson and Corey Fappiano. We had a lot of chemistry on the field together mostly because we built our relationship off the field."

Alex's Crusader ties run very deep. His siblings, Derek '08 and Aiyana '18 graduated from Holy Cross. His mother, Danytza, has been an active volunteer and supporter. His father, Derek, is legendary both at this school and other local schools for his incredible photography.

"As a father who played football, I knew it was important for Alex to make the decision on his own," said Derek. "We want the best for our children. It is all about Alex. He needs to go where he can explore and be who he is."

As Alex inches closer to the end of his senior year, he is able to look back and reflect on the lessons he learned on the fields that he can carry into other areas of his life. "I have learned two very important things from my time on the team," said Alex. "First, when you fall, you have to get back up. Second, you have to be self-motivated. Don't rely on everyone else. It's all about the hard work."

"It makes me feel good to see my kids happy at Holy Cross," said Derek. "My wife feels the same way. It is a great feeling to see these kids out on the fields.I have known a lot of these kids for a long time. It is a great feeling to come here when it feels like a family.

"Holy Cross means everything to me," said Alex. "The people have been super supportive. I have made lifelong friendships. I've been taught by incredible teachers. I wouldn't trade this experience for the world."

Boston area alumni spanning the decades from the '70s to the '10s gathered together at Doyles Café in Jamaica Plain for reconnections, networking and Crusader fun. Event Hosts, Keith Sullivan '83 and Bob Harkins '84 joined President Paul G. Geise and the Advancement Office in welcoming the alumni to this regional reception/fundraiser. Proceeds from the reception went to the Holy Cross High School Annual Fund.

"Gathering with our alumni at Historic Doyle's was a real treat," said President Geise. "The Holy Cross spirit was fully present. Memorable stories abounded! What continues to impress me in the abiding love and family feel graduates still have for their Alma Mater and for each other. Blessed Fr. Moreau's sentiment was crystal clear: "How we educate the mind will change with the times; how we cultivate the heart is and will remain timeless."

"This was a great chance to share our Holy Cross stories and reminisce about the experiences that we had on Oronoke Road," said Mike Phelan '89, Director of Alumni and Special Events. "The atmosphere was energetic and inspiring. It bled green and gold, and the bonds that we saw reinforced our belief in the Holy Cross experience. We are all so fortunate to be part of the Crusader family."

Reception attendees included: Erin Atkins Burns '84, Cody Ciriello '10, Thomas Culotta '87, Rebecca Burdick deBorst '87, Joy Cinti Demirs '84, Erin Drakeley '85, Mary Ann Graziano Dzinski '84, Cary Razza Fappiano '85, Christopher Fitzpatrick '02, Joanna Flaminio '12, Ed Generali, Paul Geise, Mike Giampetruzzi '05, Robert Harkins '84, Michelle Morcey Henderlite '84, Nicholas Iannone '86, Jennifer Gower Iovino '87, Amanda Kaufman '13, Robert Loyot '83, David Manzo '72, Donna Marino, Mike McCormack '84, Elizabeth Hudner McElhinney '84, Harold Miller '95, Ted Moeckel '83, Jordan Morrissey '12, Mike Palmieri '83, Tom & Carla Pellegrino, Mike Phelan '89, Kevin Platt '87, Keith Sullivan '83, Bill Teuber, Jose Tormo '86 and Lisa Shay Turo '84.

From The Zone – Waterbury Republican; written by Mark Jaffee

When senior tri-captains Ben Bowler, Sam Mason and Jack Tucker hoisted the CIAC Class S championship plaque late Monday night, it was a signature moment not only for the current Holy Cross High boys swimming team, but the past members in the program.

After three straight years as a runner-up, the Crusaders finally reached that elusive goal compiling 709 points ahead of a distant second-place Brookfield (542.5) at Wesleyan University's Freeman Athletic Center.

"When it was finally over, It was an unbelievable feeling," said Tucker Tuesday before practice for Thursday's State Open at Yale. "I have been swimming for 13 years, since I am five years old. This was the greatest feeling I have ever felt to share this with my teammates. I've been a part of other titles over the years, but nothing like this. Everyone was on their game and we all got focused and really serious on what we had to do."

"I was just so proud of all the swimmers and thought about everyone who had ever swam in this program," added Mason.

Mason also thought of the unfortunate turn of events at the halfway point of the meet when he inadvertently "flinched" off the starting blocks before the gun went off to signal the start of the 100 freestyle.

"As soon as I hit the water, I knew," noted Mason. "I swam the race and came in second, but I knew my place didn't count." Mason was disqualified.

While the Crusaders had maintained a substantial lead at that point, they still rallied around Mason.

"We decided it was now or never," noted Tucker. "We knew we still had a chance to make history."

In the following event, Holy Cross sophomore Derek Fantano took sliver and senior Chris Ford grabbed a bronze.

"That got us right back on track," said Tucker. "We were cruising from then on."

The night got even better for Mason and the Crusaders. Head coach Mary Racevicius, in her sixth season as head coach, made a bold move by changing the order of the final event of the night, the 400 free relay, when she took Mason out of the opening leg and moved him to the anchor spot.

Mason waited patiently on the deck, as Tucker, Fantano and Chris Ford took their turns.

Zach Houston of Haddam-Killingworth was ahead of Ford before leaving it up to Mason to finish strong.

"Sam just tore through the water," noted Tucker.

"I just swam on pure emotion and heart," said Mason. "Everyone rallied around me and this time, I didn't flinch on the blocks. Chris (Ford) did a phenomenal to keep the race close."

Mason sealed the win for the Crusaders, who took gold with a time of 3:13.45, a hundredths of a second ahead of the previous state record of 3:13.53 set by Weston in 2014.

"We didn't even know that it was a state record until we got back to Holy Cross," noted Mason. "It never crossed any of our minds after the race. Everyone was just cheering so hard and loud. I was just trying to catch my breath. My vision was blurry and didn't see the scoreboard clearly."

Mason, a Naugatuck resident, admitted that he felt an array of emotions on the bus ride home.

"All of the seniors thanked their parents and everyone who supported us," said Mason. "This was about the opportunity that we had in front of us to represent Holy Cross and the entire Naugatuck Valley League."

Mason, Tucker, Bowler, twins Alex Ford and Chris Ford and Madeline O'Connor are the only seniors on the 42-member roster. The Crusaders captured their fifth-straight NVL crown earlier this month.

"I feel so blessed and honored to be on this team," said Mason.

Holy Cross student performers ventured to Lake Buena Vista, Florida to participate in the Disney Sings Performing Arts Workshops at the Walt Disney World Resort. The students learned audition skills, vocal techniques and musical selections under the guidance of a professional Disney performer. Their hard work culminated in a performance at The Landing at Disney Springs. They also recorded an excerpt from the two classic songs Part of Your World and Under the Sea from Disney's The Little Mermaid and placed their recording over footage from the original film.

"The students got to interact with the Disney production staff and a performing arts teaching artist," said Sean Lewis, Music Teacher. "He talked about what it takes to work at Disney."

"It was great to have the opportunity to meet and work with someone who is a Disney performer," said Jenna Hulstrunk '21. "It was cool to see how to start a career there."

While the students learned many techniques to better themselves as performers, the most important information they walked away with was the required characteristics it takes to truly make it as a performer. These include: Focus. Flexible. Quick. Awesome. Friendly.

"Everyone was so excited to go; me especially," said William D'Avino '20. "I have never been before, and I love everything Disney. I was so happy that we were going to perform together as a group at Disney Springs."

Holy Cross student-athletes, coaches, friends and family gathered together at the Winter Sports Banquet to celebrate the accomplishments made in the fall athletic season. Below is a listing of the award recipients.

Class S State Champion: Boys' Swimming

NVL Champion: Boys' Swimming

Brass Champion: Girls' Basketball

NVL Outstanding Seniors: Sam Mason '19 & Jack Tucker '19

Doc McIerney Award for the City's Scholar Athlete: Boys' Basketball

John Gilmore Award for the City's Outstanding Defensive Player: Gaeley Etienne '19

All State: Derek Fantano '21, Ben Bowler '19, Alex Ford '19, Chris Ford '19, Jack Tucker '19, Sam Mason '19 and Marcus Racevicius '20 (all Boys' Swimming)

All NVL: Alyssa Hebb '21 (Girls' Basketball), Raquel Rosa '21 (Girls' Indoor Track), Derek Fantano '21, Ben Bowler '19, Alex Ford '19, Chris Ford '19, Jack Tucker '19, Sam Mason '19, Marcus Racevicius '20, Alex Corona '22 and Seamas Bowler '21 (all Boys' Swimming), Megan McHale '19 & Gabrielle Cherubino '19 (Cheerleading), Kayla Beauvais '19 & Vesa Prevalla '21 (Dance)

All Brass: John Greene '20 (Boys' Basketball), Allie Brown '19 (Girls' Basketball)

Most Valuable Player, Boys' Basketball: John Greene '20

Coaches Award, Boys' Basketball: Andre Stevenson '19

Most Valuable Player, Girls' Basketball: Alyssa Hebb '21 & Allie Brown '19

Coaches Award, Girls' Basketball: Jasmine Thorpe '19

Most Dedicated Player, Girls' Basketball: Ja'Lin Waters '19

Best Defensive Player, Girls' Basketball: Hannah Brown '19

Most Valuable Performer, Boys' Indoor Track: Taji Blizzard '22

Coaches Award, Boys' Indoor Track: Domenic Bernard '19

Most Dedicated Performer, Boys' Indoor Track: Miguel Esteves '19

Most Improved Performer, Boys' Indoor Track: Justin Miller '20

Coaches Award, Girls' Indoor Track: Sydney McIntosh '21

Most Valuable Performer, Girls' Indoor Track: Raquel Rosa '21

Most Dedicated Performer, Girls' Indoor Track: Julia Flynn '19

Most Improved Performer, Girls' Indoor Track: Amy Bosques '19

Most Valuable Performer, Boys' Swimming: Derek Fantano '21

Carrington Development Award, Boys' Swimming: Anthony Ursini '20, Chris Ford '19

Coaches Award, Boys' Swimming: Adam Fernandes, Luciano D'Amelio '20

Most Valuable Player, Boys' Swimming: Jack Tucker '19

Outstanding Freshman, Boys' Swimming: Alex Corona '22

Most Valuable Cheerleader: Gabrielle Cherubino '19, Zorri McCray '19

Most Improved, Cheerleading: Schuyler Cummings '21

Coaches Award, Cheerleading: Sage Parker '19

Most Dedicated, Cheerleading: Megan McHale '19

Coaches Award, Dance: Mary Gillette '19

Most Dedicated Dancer: Vesa Prevella '21

Most Valuable Dancer: Lauren Hamilton '19

Students from our chemistry classes participated in the demanding Chemistry Olympiad at Quinnipiac University. Sponsored by the American Chemical Society, this program is a chemistry competition for high school students. The purpose of the competition is to stimulate young people to achieve excellence in chemistry. The American Chemical Society has sponsored the program since 1984.

"This has been the second year our students have participated since I arrived in 2014," said science teacher, Nicholas Lauzon. "They had a great time last year. They really enjoyed the experience and the challenge."

Holy Cross High School was honored to welcome guest speaker, Loretta Claiborne, a global speaker and world-class runner who competes in the Special Olympics. In her powerful and inspirational speech to the students and faculty, Ms. Claiborne shared the personal challenges she faced as a young woman and how the key people in her life helped her to develop into the person she is today. She challenged the Crusader community to be careful with their words, extend a kind hand to others and to volunteer whenever possible. Listen to her powerful speech here.

According to her official website, Ms. Claiborne was the middle of seven children in a poor, single-parent family. Born partially blind and intellectually challenged, she was unable to walk or talk until age four. Eventually, though, she began to run. And before she knew it, she had crossed the finish line of twenty-six marathons, twice placing among the top one-hundred women in the Boston Marathon. She introduced President Bill Clinton at the 1995 Special Olympics World Summer Games, has won medals in dozens of its events, and also holds the current women's record in her age group for the 5000 meters at seventeen minutes. Today, Claiborne is a celebrated athlete who was honored in 1996 with ESPN's ESPY Arthur Ashe Award for Courage.

Running is not the only part of Claiborne's life. She holds a 4th degree black belt in karate, communicates in four languages, including American Sign Language, and holds two honorary doctorate degrees; one from Quinnipiac University and one from Villanova University, making her the first person with an intellectual disability known to receive such honors, according to Special Olympics Incorporated. However, Claiborne says the most rewarding part of her life has been her involvement with the Special Olympics, and she wants to continue helping people with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities succeed.

Holy Cross High School will host its first car show on Sunday April 28, 2019. Registration for participants will be from 9:00am until 11:00am and the show will be open to the public from 11:00am until 3:00pm. All cars, trucks and bikes are welcome to participate. The first 50 cars will receive dash plaques.

A fun afternoon is planned for all. In addition to the exhibition of cars, spectators will be able to purchase food, visit vendors and participate in children's activities. The car show is part of the celebration of Holy Cross High School's fifty years of serving the Greater Waterbury area.

Registration for participants is a donation of $15.00 in advance and $20.00 at the gate. Vendors may purchase space for $25.00. To register in advance or for a vendor application visit here or call 203-574-5422 ext. 264. A rain date is to be determined.

Holy Cross High School had the honor of hosting the 4^th Annual Chris Corbett 5K on Saturday, April 6^th. Proceeds from the race benefited the Christopher D. Corbett Memorial Fund in memory of Mr. Corbett '93, a Waterbury Police Department Deputy Chief. The Memorial Fund provides scholarships to students attending Greater Waterbury parochial schools.

This year was particularly special for the Crusaders because faculty member, Andy Shea '06 finished the race in first place with a time of 18:02 and current student, Alyssa Hebb '21 was the second overall female finisher.

"I didn't expect this win," said Mr. Shea. "It felt great to win a race. It hasn't happened in a while. It was an awesome day overall. It was great to see people cheering us on. I also want to congratulate Alyssa. She's so talented in so many sports. I was very impressed by her."

Running in the race was a full circle moment for Andy. It brought him back to when he ran at Holy Cross as a student. "These are the roads I ran back then," he said. "This is where I fell in love with running."

"We are so proud of Alyssa and Andy's accomplishments," said Megan Dwyer '05, Director of Student Activities. "They worked really hard as did all of our students who participated in the race. I also want to thank and acknowledge all of our students who volunteered this year. Many of them came out to help."

The Holy Cross Student Theatre (HCST) will present Big Fish: The Musical as its spring production for the 2018-2019 school year. Music and lyrics are by Andrew Lippa, and the book is written by John August. Performances run at Holy Cross High School (HCHS) on 587 Oronoke Road on May 3^rd and 4^th at 7:30p.m. Tickets can be purchased online before the show date for $10.00 here. They will be $12.00 at the door. You can also purchase a four-pack of tickets online for $35.00. This offer will end on May 2^nd. Seniors will be admitted free for the Saturday, May 4^th performance only. The production is under the direction of Sean Lewis with choreography by Brittany Mulcahy.

"I was looking for a more recent show to do this spring," said Mr. Lewis. "I also wanted it to be a story that the students could connect to. The cast has really taken to it and have been working hard on the music and choreography. Every day, they learn a little bit more about the characters and themselves."

Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, BIG FISH tells the story of Edward Bloom (Nick Pietrorazio '19), a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest... and then some! Edward's incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him – most of all, his devoted wife Sandra (Sabrina Santopietro '20). But their son Will (Billy D'Avino '20), about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father's epic tales.

Overflowing with heart, humor and spectacular stagecraft, BIG FISH is an extraordinary new Broadway musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre – for an experience that's richer, funnier and BIGGER than life itself.

"The story of Big Fish, in many ways, is the story of all of us," said Mr. Lewis. "We all have our own stories to tell. Everyone does not understand each other's story fully, but if we take the time, we can understand a lot more about each other and ourselves."