Holy Cross enrolls several international students each year. Families from Holy Cross and the surrounding community are hosts for these students during the school year. It is a wonderful opportunity for both the host family and the student. Host family agencies provide a monthly stipend as well as educational, social and cultural support during the student’s stay. Any family interested in hosting  international students attending Holy Cross should contact Jodie LaCava McGarrity, Director of Admissions, at 203.757.9248 or at jmcgarrity@holycrosshs-ct.com.

Congratulations to the Class of 2016! Best of luck to you as you enter the next chapter of your life.

Albany College of Pharmacy

Albertus Magnus College

American International College (2)

Assumption College (3)

Boston College

Bryant University

Castleton University

Central CT State University (2)

Clark University  

Coastal Carolina University

Eastern CT State University

Emmanuel College (2)

Emory University    

Fairfield University (2)

Fordham University (2)

Franklin Pierce University (3)

George Mason University (2)

Gordon College  

Hampton University

Hofstra University

Iona College (2)

Johnson and Wales University

King's College(2)

Loyola University-Maryland (2)

Lyme Academy College of Art

Maine Maritime Academy

Manhattan College (2)

Marist College (2)

Massachusetts College of Phar&Health Sciences

Mercy College

Mohawk Valley Community College

Naugatuck Valley Community College (7)

NAVY (2)

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University

Nova Southeastern University

Pace University

Palm Beach State College (2)

Post University (3)

Providence College (2)

Providence College

Quinnipiac University (5)

Richmond The American Intl University in London

Ringling College of Art & Design

Roger Williams University (5)

Sacred Heart University

Saint Joseph's University

Salem College        

Salve Regina University

Sarah Lawrence College

Seton Hall University

Southern CT State University (2)

Southern New Hampshire University

Springfield College (4)

State College of Florida (2)

Stony Brook University

Syracuse University

Towson University

Tunxis Community College

University of Colorado (2)

University of Connecticut (7)

University of Dayton

University of Hartford (2)

University of Maine

University of Miami

University of Northern Colorado

University of Notre Dame

University of Rhode Island

University of San Francisco

University of Tampa

Utica College

Valencia College

Western CT State University (3)

Western New England University (3)

Congratulations to Margaret Leger, winner of the 2015-2016 Tuition Raffle. Check out the winning moment in the video below. Brandi McIntosh '20 pulled the winning ticket. 

The Holy Cross High School community gathered together on Saturday, September 10^th for the official opening of Alumni Field. This ambitious endeavor, which will be done in phases over the next few years, honors nearly fifty years of Crusaders who have played competitive athletics for Holy Cross.

Phase One of the Alumni Field project includes a reorientation of the football and soccer fields, improvement of natural turf, and the installation of a scoreboard, goal posts, press box and concession stand. Located on the Holy Cross campus, Alumni Field will allow us to host home football games, institute future Homecoming Weekends and energize school spirit within our community.

President Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ’73 joined special guests the Honorable Paul Matasavage ’76, Msgr. Thomas Ginty ’76 and former Holy Cross Athletic Director, Jim Cunningham in the dedication and blessing of the field. Students, parents, administrators, teachers, alumni and friends came out in droves to support this project, the student-athletes and the coaches.

“We are building Alumni Field for generations of current and future Crusaders,” said Mr. Samuelson. “Their practices and games may be short-lived but their experiences, camaraderie and memories will last a lifetime.”

“A lot of time and effort has gone into establishing this field for the recreation of our men and women at Holy Cross and our guest teams who will come to visit us,” said Msgr. Ginty. “We ask God to bless them and give them a safe season. It is a great honor to be here today.”

It was a great moment for the Varsity Football Team and their coaches. “The students felt a great sense of pride as they walked down the hill and played their first home game,” said Mike Giampetruzzi ’95, Assistant Principal for Student Life and Head Varsity Football Coach. “It was a historical moment that they will remember for a very long time.”

This project wouldn’t have been possible without the vision and leadership of Mr. Samuelson and the Alumni Field Committee. Members include: Jerry Ciarleglio ’72, John Daddona ’85, Bob Fazo ’76, Mike Giampetruzzi ’95, Todd Genovese ’88, Ivan Lucuk ’00, Joe Marino ’76, Paul Matasavage ’76, Kevin McSherry ’75, Mike Phelan ’89, Bob Porzio ’72, Gregg Regan ’78 and Doug Rinaldi ’80. “On behalf of the (Alumni Field) committee, I want to thank everyone who donated or who gave their talents,” said Judge Matasavage. “We aren’t done. We have more things to do on this field over the next several years. We have a few more phases to make things even better.”

 

Holy Cross High School will induct the inaugural class into the newly formed Crusader Hall of Honor on Thursday, November 10, 2016 at La Bella Vista at 6:00p.m. It will recognize alumni, teachers, administrators and friends who have made a significant contribution to the Holy Cross community in the ways they have lived their lives and in how they represented the values taught at Holy Cross. Tickets are $60.00 and can be purchased by calling 203.574.5422 ext. 264, by emailing mphelan@holycrosshs-ct.com or by registering online at www.holycrosshs-ct.com/honor .

The Hall of Honor will be broken down by five distinguished awards:

The Crusader Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself during his/her time at Holy Cross. Recipients include:

• Jim Abromaitis ’75, Albertus Magnus College, Athletic Director (Unionville, CT)

• Mary Piscatelli Brigham ’79, Attorney (Litchfield, CT)

• Tony Hanson ’73, NBA, Former Player & Program Director, Hartford Knights Youth Organization (Windham, CT)

• Linda Mascoli ’88, Tidy Tails Mobile Dog Grooming, LLC, Owner (Middlebury, CT)

• Paul Matasavage ’76, State of CT District Superior Court, Judge (Oakville, CT)

The Saint Andre Bessette Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself in life after high school. Recipient:

• Fritz Blasius ’76, Blasius Chevrolet Cadillac, Owner (Waterbury, CT)

The Blessed Father Basil Moreau Award – this honors a coach, teacher, administrator or staff member for their stand-out, outstanding service to Holy Cross. Recipients include: 

• Jim Cunningham, Holy Cross High School, Retired Athletic Director (Wolcott, CT)

• Brother Harold Hathaway, C.S.C., St. Edwards University (Austin, TX)

• Brother Francis Leary, C.S.C., Retired Brother of Holy Cross (Valatia, NY)

• Timothy McDonald, Holy Cross High School, Former President (Waterbury, CT)

The Marguerite Bourgeouis Award – this honors the contributions of our loyal friends of Holy Cross. Recipient:

• Jay Alix ’73, Alix Partners, Founder (Birmingham, MI)

The Green & Gold Award – this honors the contributions of athletic teams at Holy Cross. Teams will be honored at future Hall of Honor ceremonies.

The Hall of Honor will honor our past, celebrate our present and dream for our future. We are very excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our diverse school community.

The Holy Cross Student Theatre (HCST) will present the iconic musical, Grease with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey as its’ spring production for the 2015-2016 school year. Performances run at Holy Cross High School (HCHS) on April 29^th & 30th at 7:00pm and May 1^st at 2:00pm. Tickets are $12.00 and can be purchased at the door or at the Holy Cross Main Office. Seniors will be admitted free for the Sunday, May 1^st performance only and can purchase by calling HCHS at 203.757.9248. Grease is under the direction of David Gardino with music direction by Gabrielle Brazauskas and choreography by Ralph Cantito ’74.

As an added bonus, the school’s annual Arts-on-Oronoke exhibit, featuring the art work of Holy Cross students and alumni, will be held during the May 1^st performance from 3:00pm-5:00pm in the Alix Family Gallery. Refreshments will be served.

About Grease

Halloween came early for some local Waterbury children. Holy Cross High School hosted the 13^th Annual Halloween Happening, an event offering Greater Waterbury area children a safe and fun environment to trick-or-treat with their families.

“This was definitely an eye opener for many Holy Cross students,” said Emma Gargano ’17 who has been active in all Halloween Happening events since her freshmen year. “It warms my heart that we, as a school, can do something so wonderful for our community.”

Approximately 1000 people, including 400 children visited the school, the most successful Halloween Happening in its thirteen year history. “This is the largest group of people we have had,” said Meg Dwyer ’05, Director of Student Activities. “The feedback has been tremendous. We can’t thank everyone enough, including our 200+ student volunteers, for giving their time to create a special day for the local children. We also want to spend a special thanks to the club presidents, sports captains, moderators and teachers who attended and contributed to the success of this event.”

“I love service,” said Emma. “I love making an impact on people. Working on Halloween Happening and other school events helped me grow stronger with my faith and as a person.’

WATERBURY, CT – The Holy Cross Student Theatre (HCST) is proud to announce Bernard Pomerance’s classic The Elephant Man as its fall production for the 2016-2017 school year. Performances run at Holy Cross High School (HCHS) in Waterbury on November 4^th & 5^th at 7:00p.m. and November 6^th at 2:00p.m. Tickets are $8.00 and can be purchased at the door or by calling HCHS at 203.757.9248. Seniors will be admitted free for the Sunday, November 6^th matinee only. The production is under the direction of long-time HCST director and teacher, Paul Whealon. HCHS English Teacher Lori Conetta is the Assistant Director.  

“The students have recognized that the play is about the person inside and how people learn to find, understand and accept and celebrate that person,” said Mr. Whealon. “John Merrick was an intelligent man trapped in an ugly body. The cast has to find him. It is an amazing process.”

John Merrick (Michael Perkins ’18 of Waterbury) is a man living with horrifying, rare skin and bone diseases. He is seen as a freak by society, but his life changes when young physician Frederick Treves (Jacob Gannon ’18 of Waterbury) agrees to care for him. Merrick quickly becomes a favorite of the English aristocracy. This acceptance comes with a heavy price.

The Elephant Man made its’ Broadway debut in 1979 and played for 916 regular performances. Prior to the Broadway production, it played at Hampstead Theatre and National Theatre in London. It ran off-Broadway in early 1979 at the York Theatre and St. Peter’s. It was revived recently on Broadway in 2014 for a limited 13-week engagement and in London at the Theatre Royal Haymarket in 2015.

“My overall goal in any theater production is a learning experience,” said Mr. Whealon. “We vary. We did Shakespeare last year and comedies in other seasons. I try to find a piece that is a stretch so that the students on stage, back stage and in the audience will learn.”

The HCST Cast of The Elephant Man includes: Michael Perkins ’18, Jacob Gannon ’18, Bill D’Avino ’20, Jenn Carroll ’17, Christina Finkenzeller ’18, Adrianna Perugini ’18, Sabrina Santropietro ’20 (all from Waterbury), Nick Pietrorazio ’19, John Vito ’18, (both from Watertown), Ben Bowler ’19, Emily Bowler ’17 (both from Middlebury), Jack Boushie ’20, Gillian Russo ’17 (both from Woodbury), Meghan Booth ’18 (Oakville), Galvin Brayton ’19 (Bethlehem), Marina Setaro ’18, Mira Chartier ’17 (Wolcott), Leanne Raymond ’17 (Plantsville) and Casuarina Arute ’20 (Cheshire). Will Guglielmo ’18 (Middlebury) , Caitlyn Dreher ’18 (Prospect) and Omofolade Olusanya ’20 (Waterbury)  are the stage managers.

Election Day came a day early for the Holy Cross community. Students from faculty member, Meg Dwyer’s ’05 AP US History class hosted a mock election, which was open to the entire school. Students had to present their ID to their peers who worked the voting booths in the school library. Afterwards, they went to a private area to cast their vote.

Through this activity, students learned how to research the candidates, pre-register and anticipate what goes on at the voting booths. “This was a very successful program,” said Ms. Dwyer. “Over 275 people came out to vote. Students became more aware of their civic responsibility as American citizens.”

“This is the last (Presidential) election that we won’t be able to vote in,” said Mikayla Pieksza ’18. “Ms. Dwyer encouraged us to research each candidate and see where he/she stood on issues that were important to us.”

“This is going to be a make it or break it election,” said Danny Flaherty ’18. The next election is also going to be a big one for us. It’s going to be cool to see who we, as a school, choose for President.”

Congratulations to Matthew Bonvicini ’17 of (son of Fred & Tracey Bonvicini of Torrington, Connecticut) who signed a National Letter of Intent on Thursday, November 10^th to play Division I Baseball at the University of Connecticut. He plans to study Engineering.

Matt started playing baseball at ten years old. He immediately felt an intense love for the sport and played throughout his middle and high school years. He has been the starting first baseman for the Crusaders since his sophomore year. Last season, Matt batted .526 with 6 HRS, 7 triples and 36 RBIS and an .631 On-Base percentage. Matt was named All-State and All-NVL and was named to the CT Junior Select All-Star Team.

“You can’t miss a play,” said Matt. “You need to be focused the entire time. Every play is just as important as the next.”

In addition to being a great athlete, Matt is a member of National Honor Society and is a high honors student. He quickly learned in his freshmen year how to manage his time between his academic and athletic demands.

“Matt is a great leader,” said Varsity Baseball Coach, Mike Phelan ’89. “I named him Captain while he was a junior. This is the first time I have ever done that. I knew he had what we wanted as a Crusader student-athlete. He is an exceptional team leader, a hard worker and a great student. His teammates respect and look up to him.”

Holy Cross High School inducted eleven beloved school community members into the newly formed Crusader Hall of Honor on Thursday, November 10, 2016. Alumni, teachers, administrators and friends were recognized for their achievements and contributions to Holy Cross and/or their greater communities.

“I believe divine providence has led us all to this date, place and time to recognize these honorees and show them the gratitude and recognition that they so richly deserve,” said Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ’73, President. “Without their incredible talents and numerous gifts, what would Holy Cross be today? These men and women through word and deed blazed a trail of greatness that set a standard of excellence that still permeates Holy Cross today.”

“What a great evening for Holy Cross,” said Principal, Margaret Leger. “I can’t tell you how good it feels to sit here and see all of the people in attendance and hear all of their stories. Thank you so much to the honorees and what you have done for Holy Cross.”

Following a beautiful, a capella rendition of the National Anthem by Sabrina Santopietro ’20, Norby Williamson ’81, Master of Ceremonies, welcomed several members of the school community to offer their thoughts on this special evening. Shortly thereafter, honorees in attendance addressed the audience filled with close friends and loyal supporters.

The following are members of the inaugural class of the Crusader Hall of Honor.

• The Crusader Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself during his/her time at Holy Cross. Recipients include: Jim Abromaitis ’75, Albertus Magnus College, Athletic Director (Unionville, CT), Mary Piscatelli Brigham ’79, Attorney (Litchfield, CT), Tony Hanson ’73, NBA, Former Player & Program Director, Hartford Knights Youth Organization (Windham, CT), Linda Mascoli ’88, Tidy Tails Mobile Dog Grooming, LLC, Owner (Middlebury, CT), and Paul Matasavage ’76, State of CT District Superior Court, Judge (Oakville, CT)

• The Saint Andre Bessette Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself in life after high school. Recipient: Fritz Blasius ’76, Blasius Chevrolet Cadillac, Owner (Waterbury, CT)

• The Blessed Father Basil Moreau Award – this honors a coach, teacher, administrator or staff member for their stand-out, outstanding service to Holy Cross. Recipients include: Jim Cunningham, Holy Cross High School, Retired Athletic Director (Wolcott, CT), Brother Harold Hathaway, C.S.C., St. Edwards University (Austin, TX), Brother Francis Leary, C.S.C., Retired Brother of Holy Cross (Valatia, NY), Timothy McDonald, Holy Cross High School, Former President (Waterbury, CT)

• The Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Award – this honors the contributions of our loyal friends of Holy Cross. Recipient: Jay Alix ’73, AlixPartners, Founder (Birmingham, MI)

“The accomplishments of our inductees are a part of the legacy and tradition of Holy Cross High School,” said Brother William Zaydak, C.S.C., Provincial, Congregation of Holy Cross, Moreau Province. “What they have accomplished in the past is now an integral part of the present….On behalf of the Congregation of Holy Cross and the Brothers of Holy Cross, we thank you, the inductees, for being co-workers and co-ministers with all of us. For this, we are extremely grateful for your time, dedication and heartfelt passion for Holy Cross.”  

Honored guest, the Honorable Neil M. O’Leary, 46^th Mayor of the City of Waterbury, shared his thoughts on what Holy Cross meant to the city of Waterbury. “Our son, Patrick, graduated from Holy Cross in 2003,” said Mr. O’Leary. “The thing I love most about it is the fact that each and every faculty member went out of their way to make sure he was on the right track. I think that is the example that most parents expect from Holy Cross because that is the bar that they have set for the last fifty years now. Many of our friends continue to send their children to Holy Cross, and each and every one of them is so honored when their children walk across that stage because they are all going somewhere they dreamt they could get to. That is what Holy Cross means to the students, their families and the city at large.”  

Current senior, Emma Gargano ’17 congratulated the inductees on behalf of the Class of 2017. “It is my great hope that we, the students of Holy Cross, can continue to do great things just like you did and still do within our community. Thank you for leading the Crusader path. We will strive to follow in your footsteps.”

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

Senior Class

First Honors: Anthony Barbino, Juliana Battaglia, Emily Bowler, Caroline Carew, Jennifer Carroll, Allison Catalano, Simon Corbett, Aubry DeFoe, Alyssa Famiglietti, Lucy Gallagher, Hayley Gilmore, Taylor Green, Andrew Gumprecht, Patrick McMahon, Leandro Mongelluzzo, Gavin Nealon, Tess Oatley, Isabella Parker, Enadi Pasholli, Andrea Pettinico, Isabel Plant, Gillian Russo, Marina Setaro, Julia Sheetz, Ziyue Wang & Zhiqi Xiao

Second Honors: Catherine Barber, Jonathan Barney, Matthew Bonvicini, Ava Calabrese, Jillian Campbell, Jacob Carella, Cydney Caterino, Elena Cavallo, Therese Cayabyab, Matthew Cipriano, Megan Coe, Hayley Cuttitta, Antonio D'Amelio, Ian Denault, John DiFrancesco, Siena Errichetti, Katherine Flaherty, Christopher Flynn, Jonathan Frageau, Michelina Gagliardi, Jianxiang Gao, Emma Gargano, Gabrielle Goldman, Kyla Hamilton, Nicholas Hernandez, Ryan Hickey, Rosellyn Hill, Isabella Ilievski, Michael Keating, Caitlin Kelly, Sarah Lawton, Dezhen Liu, Griffin Maloney, Alexander Marshall, Maegan McGrenery, Idalis Miranda, Anthony Monteiro, Donovan Montville, Anthony Muchiri, Allison Orsini, Gregory Picard, Leanne Raymond, Adam Razza, Samantha Riback, Donato Rosales, Marcos Scarpa, Clare Sullivan, Diogo Taveira, Nevya Vermette, Meghan Villano & Alicia Westberg

Junior Class

First Honors: Meah Austin, Erin Buckley, Solomina Darko, Richard Denardo, Angelina Failla, Macellan Fauth, Monica Fenwick, Christina Finkenzeller, Daniel Flaherty, Micaela Flaherty, Kiley Harnish, Caitlin Kinsella, Alexandra Koulouris, Alexandra Lombardo, William Marshall, Meghan Mazzatto, Aiden McCarthy, Kylee McIntosh, Julia Mecca, Jillian Noack, Vincent Packer, Adriana Perugini, Allie Peschel, Mikayla Pieksza, Maia Regan, Jenna Rohlman, Nicole Rohlman, Jessica Sanchez, Madison Smith, Charlie Spreda, Elena Tormo, Taylor Wade, Wen Ting Zheng & Aizlyn Zupkus

Second Honors: Juliana Amaral, Richard Blanco, Meghan Booth, Jessica Borduas, Wyatt Brennan, Kayla Bromley, Layne Carter, Michael Cipriano, Cameron Cooney, Sydney DelPriore, Michel Desaulniers, Evan Diliberto, Manny Diorio, Devan Eason, Riley Fasano, Jacob Gannon, Ethan Giroux, Erin Goggin, William Guglielmo, Shouming Huang, Amy Izzo, Jaelie Jackson, Madeline Leo, Pan Li, Chongrui Luo, Sofia Lupoi, Michael Mara, Century McCartney, Kathryn McDuff, Michael Mencio, Mary-Genevieve Moisan, Madelynn Mowad, Alyssa Nobrega, Grace Parenti, Michael Perkins, Sean Price, Nicholas Quicquaro, Lucas Racevicius, Nikki-Lee Rostedt, Dillon Sanzari, Natalie Silva, Jessica Solnik, Michael Stenman, Nicole Strielkauskas, John Vito, Aiyana Ward, Brandon White, Raquel Williamson & Wenxuan Yan

Sophomore Class

First Honors: Natasha Angel, Allysa Cayabyab, Benson Chen, Yuxuan Chen, Lingxiao Cui, Emma D'Ambruoso, Carley DeFoe, Nathaniel Donofrio, Mitchell Duyck, Julia Dzinski, McKenna Ellsworth, Miguel Esteves, Julia Flynn, Alexander Ford, Christopher Ford, Mary Gillette, Vincent Graziano, William Greene, Jeremy Hamel, Julia Joyce, Annie Kinsella, Jenny Lin, Diana Lower, Nicole Madrid, Dante Malaspina, Kyle Moser, Morgan Murray, Colleen Pelletier, Elise Pelletier, Lauren Raad, Jack Schiavone, Jasmine Thorpe, Thomas Thorpe, Ja'Lin Waters, Fiona Xhafi, Lin Xu, Kingsten Zenick, Zekai Zhang, Ange Zhao, Lingye Zhu, Timothy Zupkus

Second Honors: Paige Anderson, Kayla Beauvais, Domenic Bernard, Joseph Bonvicini, Amy Bosques, Galvin Brayton, Austin Brown, Hannah Brown, Kiara Buscaino, Madison Bushka, Nyomie Butler, Kristina Chartier, David Desaulniers, Meghan Diorio, Corey Fappiano, Jayden Frageau, Nadia French-Graham, Connor Goggin, Elvira Guerrero, Lauren Hamilton, Morgan Kolb, James Lanese, Zachary Lerner, Jared Longo, Jacob Mahler, Camilla Marzella, Samuel Mason, Thomas Moran, Valerie Nobrega, Madeline O'Connor, Brian Parzyck, Camille Perron, Nicholas Pietrorazio, Sara Razza, Jordan Richard, Aaron Selenica, Wyatt Shea-Levandoski, Yannan Sun & Alessandro Ward

Freshmen Class

First Honors: Max Blaschke, John Boushie, Xinlin Cai, Christopher Christiano, Elizabeth Diorio, Norah Dreher, Nathan Erdtmann, Michael Famiglietti, Nicholas Frappier, Nicholas Galasso, Tara Garden, Samuel Henderlite, Katelyn Honegger, Alyssa Milburn, Jenna Mowad, Aidan Nixon, Omofolade Olusanya & Junyan Xue

Second Honors: Shawn Austin, Alexander Burrows, Medi Celiku, Carina Cornacchia, Luciano D'Amelio, Ashley Davis, Randall Desaulniers, Gianna Febbriello, Cole Foster, John Greene, Natalie Kirby, Jason Lin, Isabella Mariani, Brandi McIntosh, Justin Miller, Christopher Moreira, William Palomba, Arthur Pappas III, Jack Paulin, Thomas Pompei, Cameron Rivers, Victoria Schaffner, Megan Schaus, Brian Silva, Colby Steinfeld, Brooke Tymosko, Jack Villano, Pengxiang Xia & Xiang Yin

Holy Cross student-athletes, coaches, administrators, friends and family gathered together at the Fall Sports Banquet to celebrate the accomplishments made in the fall athletic season. “This past season went very well,” said Jerry Ciarleglio ’72, Director of Athletics. “I am very happy with the number of kids who participated this year and am always proud of how they represent our school.”

Many individual players and teams made an indelible mark this season. This includes the following:

• Boys & Girls Cross Country won the city championships.

• Girls Cross Country won the Brass Division in the Naugatuck Valley League (NVL).

• Adam Razza ’17 was named All-NVL in Football and also Most Outstanding Player in the City of Waterbury.

• Christopher Flynn ’17 was named ALL-NVL in Cross Country.

• Diogo Taveira ’17 was named All NVL in Boys Soccer.

• Kiley Harnish ’18 was named All-NVL and All State in Girls Soccer.

• Madelynn Mowad ’18 was named All-NVL and All State in Girls Swimming.

Several awards were given at the Sports Banquet including:

• Most Valuable Player – Football: Adam Razza ’17

• Most Improved Player – Football: Wyatt Brennan ’18

• Jon Harper Award – Football: Donovan Montville ’17

• Coaches Award – Football: Zyair Rountree ’18

• Coaches Award – Boys Soccer: Nicholas Phillips ’17 & Antonio D’Amelio ’17

• Most Valuable Player – Soccer: Diogo Taveira ’17

• Most Dedicated Player – Boys Soccer: Gavin Nealon ’17

• Most Improved Player – Boys Soccer: Leandro Mongelluzzo ’17

• Most Valuable Player – Girls Soccer: Julia Sheetz ’17

• Coaches Award – Girls Soccer: Michelina Gagliardi ’17

• Glue Award – Girls Soccer: Hayley Gilmore ’17

• Most Improved Player – Girls Soccer: Jasmine Thorpe ’19

• Most Dedicated Player – Girls Soccer: Madison Bushka ’19

• Most Valuable Player – Boys Cross Country: Christopher Flynn ’17

• Most Improved Runner – Boys Cross Country: Jack Paulin ’20

• Most Dedicated Runner – Boys Cross Country: Samuel Henderlite ’20

• Coaches Award – Boys Cross Country: Marcas Racevicius ’20

• Most Valuable Runner – Girls Cross Country: Layne Carter ’18

• Most Improved Runner – Girls Cross Country: Cyndey Caterino ’17

• Most Dedicated Runner – Girls Cross Country: Galvin Brayton ’19

• Coaches Award – Girls Cross Country: Isabel Plant ’17

• Rookie Award – Girls Cross Country: Julia Mecca ’18

• Most Valuable Player – Volleyball: Meah Austin ’18

• Brother Pierre Schu, C.S.C. Award – Volleyball: Maia Regan ’18

• Coaches Award – Volleyball: Gabrielle Goldman ’17

• Most Improved Player – Volleyball: Alexandra Lombardo ’18

• Most Valuable Swimmer – Girls Swim Team: Madelynn Mowad ’18

• Most Improved Swimmer – Girls Swim Team: Alyssa Nobrega ’18

• Coaches Award – Girls Swim Team: Hannah Brown ’19

Holy Cross High School is saddened of the recent passing of Sister Jean Dwyer, Congregation of Notre Dame (CND). She died on Sunday, December 4, 2016 surrounded by her family.

“Sister Jean was a wonderful example of service and faith,” said Principal, Margaret Leger. “I knew Sister Jean at Mercy and at Holy Cross. She enjoyed her time with the students at both schools.  She positively impacted and guided many young people throughout her days in catholic schools.”

Sister Jean was born in Waterbury on February 19, 1931. She had been a member of the CND for 64 years. She taught and worked throughout Connecticut at Waterbury Catholic School, Immaculate High School and Mercy High School. She also worked at schools in the Bronx and Rhode Island. She retired this past June from Mercy High School and resided with the CND at Holy Cross.  

“Sister Jean devoted her life to God and the Christian education of young adults,” said President, Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ’73. “There can be no higher calling. We pray for her soul and for her family. Please keep her fellow Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame and her loved ones in your prayers today and always.”

Current students and families, please click here for the Mid-Year Exam Schedule and important information from Mrs. Rodriguez regarding exam preparation, scheduling and missed exams.

Exams will run January 17^th through January 20^th.

HARTFORD, Conn. (December 13, 2016) – The second annual CPTV Sports Tip-Off Classic – a showcase of top girls and boys basketball teams featuring rare non-conference match-ups – takes place Tuesday, December 20 at Maloney High School, located at 121 Gravel Street in Meriden. Holy Cross High School will be participating in this exciting event.

The 2016 CPTV Sports Tip-Off Classic features three matchups of top high school boys and girls basketball teams. Games and times of the one-night only Tip-Off Classic are as follows:

4:45 p.m. – Newington vs. Notre Dame-West Haven
6:15 p.m. – Mercy-Middletown vs. Holy Cross-Waterbury (Girls)
7:45 p.m. – Greenwich vs. East Hartford

“Connecticut Public Television is dedicated to Connecticut’s student-athletes,” said CPTV Sport Producer Frankie Graziano. “The 2016 Tip-Off Classic represents our commitment to the brightest young men and women in our state. Support of this event will directly benefit CPTV’s continuing coverage of local student-athletes.”

Fans will be able to attend all three games when they purchase an all-day pass for $10 either online at www.cptvsports.org or on site at the tournament. Each game will stream LIVE on CPTVSports.org, while replays of the three Tip-Off Classic contests will broadcast on CPTV Sports and Connecticut Public Television. For more information about the games and to purchase tickets, fans are encouraged to visit www.cptvsports.org/tipoffclassic.

The 2016 CPTV Sports Tip-Off Classic features some of the top basketball teams and stars in the state, including:

2015 All-FCIAC 1^st Team Guard Conor Harkins from Greenwich High School, a perennial FCIAC contender

All-CCC North Guard Isaiah Williams from East Hartford High School

Guard Jared Simmons from 2015 CIAC L semi-finalist Newington High School

ESPN 100 Guard Tremont Waters from Notre Dame-West Haven

And in the girls match up, 2014-2015 SCC Tournament Champion and 2013 CIAC Class LL Champion Mercy-Middletown versus 2015-2016 NVL Tournament Champion and CIAC Class M semi-finalist Holy Cross-Waterbury.

Viewers can follow the event on social media: @CPTVSports on Twitter and Instagram. “Like” Facebook.com/cptvsports for more information on the 2016 Tip-Off Classic.

ABOUT CPTV SPORTS
CPTV Sports is Connecticut’s only 24-hour local sports network broadcasting Connecticut high school sports. Launched in November of 2011, the network has featured over 350 hours of sports competitions per year, including LIVE CIAC baseball, basketball, football, and ice hockey championship telecasts. CPTV Sports original programming also includes In Focus, a weekly series highlighting the accomplishments of Connecticut high school athletics, both on and off the field. The network is also responsible for creating viewer-immersive, showcase events such as the CPTV Sports Tip-Off Classic, a basketball invitational tournament featuring rare girls and boys basketball match-ups. CPTV Sports is one of Connecticut Public Television’s (CPTV) digital channels and is available on-air and online at www.cptvsports.org.

The Holy Cross High School Music Department put the school community into the spirit of the season with A Baby is Born: A Traditional Christmas Concert. Under the direction of Gabrielle Brazauskas and Leo Lavallee ’77, the musical selections were diverse, and the student performers were polished, enthusiastic and poised.

“We try to keep the music interesting,” said Ms. Brazauskas. “We mixed the secular, traditional Christmas music with some pop hits. We want to challenge and educate the students as well as keep them in the Christmas spirit.”

“Preparing for a concert is more than learning the notes,” said Mr. Lavalle. “It is about learning the correct fingerings, the nuances to music making, working together as a team and flexibility. It is also about learning that it is okay to make mistakes, learn from them and move forward. All of this hard work culminates in a beautiful experience for everybody.”

The first piece that Ms. Brazauskas rehearsed with the choir was Festival Sanctus, a modern piece written in Latin. “Our students are very strong and not afraid to take risks,” she said. “I don’t dumb down anything for a high school group. I give them college-level material. They always rise to the challenge.”

She gives a lot of credit to the a capella group, Crosstones, who performed The Twelve Days of Christmas/Africa (as made famous by Straight, No Chaser). “Half the time, each performer is holding down his or her own part. Their group dynamics are great because they bonded as a group and as individuals.”

The concert also showcased many student soloists including: Meghan Diorio ’19, Caleb Bosseler ’20, Jacob Gannon (all vocalists) in You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, John Vito ’18 (trumpet) in All of Me, Sabrina Santopietro ’20 (vocals), Jonathan Barney ’17 (piano), John Vito ’18 (trumpet) in Blue Skies, Nate Donofrio ’19 (tenor sax) in Take the “A’ Train and Hayley Cuttitta ’17 (vocals) in All I Want for Christmas is You. 

“The students worked really hard in the past two and a half months to prepare for this concert,” said Mr. Lavallee. “I am most proud of how they came together and worked as a group. It wasn’t about them as individuals. It was about them, as a group, and their audience. They really conveyed that.”

The Brothers of Holy Cross and the Holy Cross High School Board of Directors are proud to announce Margaret Leger as the school’s fifth President, effective January 6, 2017. Mrs. Leger will take over for Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ’73 who has announced his retirement.

“It has been one of my greatest privileges in my professional life to serve Holy Cross,” said Mr. Samuelson. “I love this school and what it stands for. I know that I leave it in great hands.”  

Brother James Branigan, Director of the Moreau Province School Office, expressed words of appreciation for Mr. Samuelson. "The Brothers of Holy Cross extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Frank for all of his contributions to Holy Cross High School and our well-wishes in his retirement." said Branigan.

Mrs. Leger has filled a number of roles at Holy Cross since her arrival 37 years ago. In the fall of 1980, she was hired as a physical education teacher. She also coached cross country and track. In 1982, she became the Assistant to the Director of Students, in addition to her teaching obligations. She spent 22 years as the Assistant Principal/Director of Students before assuming the role of Assistant Principal for Academic Life. In 2009, she became the Principal of Holy Cross.

Chairman of the Board of Directors, Jeffrey Fryer ’87, welcomes Mrs. Leger into her new role. Mr. Fryer stated “The Board welcomes Peg as President and is confident of her abilities to further advance Holy Cross and our mission to assist in the Catholic education of young men and women.  She has been an integral supporting leader at Holy Cross for a long time now and we’re excited for her to assume the role as President and lead our school towards our 50^th Anniversary in 2018.”

“I am humbled and honored to lead Holy Cross in this new capacity,” said Mrs. Leger. “We are charged with giving our students a first-rate, secondary school education. I am confident that with the support of our administration and school leaders, we will continue to stay on the cutting edge of the education world yet stay true to our Catholic-based faith, tradition and mission.”

A graduate of Springfield College (B.S., Physical Education) and Fairfield University (M.S., Secondary School Administration), Mrs. Leger is a member of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS), the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and the ASCD (formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development).

Congratulations to Matthew Bonvicini ’17 of (son of Fred & Tracey Bonvicini of Torrington, Connecticut) who signed a National Letter of Intent on Thursday, November 10^th to play Division I Baseball at the University of Connecticut. He plans to study Engineering.

Matt started playing baseball at ten years old. He immediately felt an intense love for the sport and played throughout his middle and high school years. He has been the starting first baseman for the Crusaders since his sophomore year. Last season, Matt batted .526 with 6 HRS, 7 triples and 36 RBIS and an .631 On-Base percentage. Matt was named All-State and All-NVL and was named to the CT Junior Select All-Star Team.

“You can’t miss a play,” said Matt. “You need to be focused the entire time. Every play is just as important as the next.”

In addition to being a great athlete, Matt is a member of National Honor Society and is a high honors student. He quickly learned in his freshmen year how to manage his time between his academic and athletic demands.

“Matt is a great leader,” said Varsity Baseball Coach, Mike Phelan ’89. “I named him Captain while he was a junior. This is the first time I have ever done that. I knew he had what we wanted as a Crusader student-athlete. He is an exceptional team leader, a hard worker and a great student. His teammates respect and look up to him.”

Holy Cross High School inducted eleven beloved school community members into the newly formed Crusader Hall of Honor on Thursday, November 10, 2016. Alumni, teachers, administrators and friends were recognized for their achievements and contributions to Holy Cross and/or their greater communities.

“I believe divine providence has led us all to this date, place and time to recognize these honorees and show them the gratitude and recognition that they so richly deserve,” said Frank H. Samuelson, Jr. ’73, President. “Without their incredible talents and numerous gifts, what would Holy Cross be today? These men and women through word and deed blazed a trail of greatness that set a standard of excellence that still permeates Holy Cross today.”

“What a great evening for Holy Cross,” said Principal, Margaret Leger. “I can’t tell you how good it feels to sit here and see all of the people in attendance and hear all of their stories. Thank you so much to the honorees and what you have done for Holy Cross.”

Following a beautiful, a capella rendition of the National Anthem by Sabrina Santopietro ’20, Norby Williamson ’81, Master of Ceremonies, welcomed several members of the school community to offer their thoughts on this special evening. Shortly thereafter, honorees in attendance addressed the audience filled with close friends and loyal supporters.

The following are members of the inaugural class of the Crusader Hall of Honor.

• The Crusader Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself during his/her time at Holy Cross. Recipients include: Jim Abromaitis ’75, Albertus Magnus College, Athletic Director (Unionville, CT), Mary Piscatelli Brigham ’79, Attorney (Litchfield, CT), Tony Hanson ’73, NBA, Former Player & Program Director, Hartford Knights Youth Organization (Windham, CT), Linda Mascoli ’88, Tidy Tails Mobile Dog Grooming, LLC, Owner (Middlebury, CT), and Paul Matasavage ’76, State of CT District Superior Court, Judge (Oakville, CT)

• The Saint Andre Bessette Award – this honors an alumnus/a who distinguished himself/herself in life after high school. Recipient: Fritz Blasius ’76, Blasius Chevrolet Cadillac, Owner (Waterbury, CT)

• The Blessed Father Basil Moreau Award – this honors a coach, teacher, administrator or staff member for their stand-out, outstanding service to Holy Cross. Recipients include: Jim Cunningham, Holy Cross High School, Retired Athletic Director (Wolcott, CT), Brother Harold Hathaway, C.S.C., St. Edwards University (Austin, TX), Brother Francis Leary, C.S.C., Retired Brother of Holy Cross (Valatia, NY), Timothy McDonald, Holy Cross High School, Former President (Waterbury, CT)

• The Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys Award – this honors the contributions of our loyal friends of Holy Cross. Recipient: Jay Alix ’73, AlixPartners, Founder (Birmingham, MI)

“The accomplishments of our inductees are a part of the legacy and tradition of Holy Cross High School,” said Brother William Zaydak, C.S.C., Provincial, Congregation of Holy Cross, Moreau Province. “What they have accomplished in the past is now an integral part of the present….On behalf of the Congregation of Holy Cross and the Brothers of Holy Cross, we thank you, the inductees, for being co-workers and co-ministers with all of us. For this, we are extremely grateful for your time, dedication and heartfelt passion for Holy Cross.”  

Honored guest, the Honorable Neil M. O’Leary, 46^th Mayor of the City of Waterbury, shared his thoughts on what Holy Cross meant to the city of Waterbury. “Our son, Patrick, graduated from Holy Cross in 2003,” said Mr. O’Leary. “The thing I love most about it is the fact that each and every faculty member went out of their way to make sure he was on the right track. I think that is the example that most parents expect from Holy Cross because that is the bar that they have set for the last fifty years now. Many of our friends continue to send their children to Holy Cross, and each and every one of them is so honored when their children walk across that stage because they are all going somewhere they dreamt they could get to. That is what Holy Cross means to the students, their families and the city at large.”  

Current senior, Emma Gargano ’17 congratulated the inductees on behalf of the Class of 2017. “It is my great hope that we, the students of Holy Cross, can continue to do great things just like you did and still do within our community. Thank you for leading the Crusader path. We will strive to follow in your footsteps.”