Transforming Lives Through Catholic Education

Foundations in Education Newsletter - Summer 2024

Foundations in Education Inc is committed to strengthen and transform the mission of Catholic education in the Diocese of Bridgeport by providing tuition assistance to families in need, supporting innovation in academic programs, and fostering opportunities for the professional development of school leaders.

Dear Friends,

We have much to be thankful for, especially you, our donors and friends. Your contributions allowed us to award 1,300 students $3,073,980 in tuition assistance, including a record number Leaders of Tomorrow! You also supported Innovation and Leadership Grants, including a first time cohort of 10 teachers at 10 schools, introducing Lego STEM learning. Thank you!

Our gratitude does not end here! In a special way, we first wish to acknowledge and thank our Board Chair, Tom McInerney, who will be handing over the reins as Chair to Joe Purcell, July 1st. Tom served with distinction, wisdom and an open heart since becoming Chair following Bishop Frank Caggiano, our Founding Chair. Another very special recognition is to our Superintendent of Schools and friend, Dr. Steven Cheeseman. Dr. Cheeseman has accepted the role of President & CEO of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA). If the measure of the man is the difference he made, then Steve is a GIANT! Overseeing the Transforming the Paradigm of Catholic Education Initiative and increases in enrollment three consecutive years (and counting!) are just some of his many accomplishments.

To our teachers, Foundations’ staff and Office of School Superintendent colleagues, you are heroes in our midst. Your dedication and commitment to students and families is unparalleled. Thank you for sharing your talents to advance Catholic Education for the benefit of our students across the Diocese.

May you enjoy a happy, healthy and restful summer. We look forward to seeing you in the fall!

With appreciation and best wishes,

Holly Doherty-Lemoine, CFRE

Executive Director

Gala Celebrates Catholic Education

Foundations in Education hosted its annual fundraising event at Woodway Country Club in Darien, CT on Thursday, April 25, 2024. The annual event raised over $1 million dollars. The program featured recognition of two notable honorees, Michael Shea and M&T Bank, an inspiring student speaker, and a live auction. The gathering of over 200 friends and donors provided an enjoyable evening of shared mission, great food and high energy.

Michael Shea was recognized for his inspiring leadership and generous commitment to Catholic education.

M&T Bank was recognized for their corporate partnership and commitment to Catholic education.

Guests were greeted by All Saints Catholic School students and treated to their enthusiastic musical performance.

The Gala Committee worked tirelessly for a year to plan an exciting celebration and to raise awareness and support for Foundations in Education.

Auctioneer Bobby D. of Inspire Hearts Fundraising drove up bidding as guests raised their paddles on a variety of fabulous items.

The highlight of the evening was the testimonial of student speaker and Leader of Tomorrow recipient,

Hunter Oliva.

Click here for more photos

Congratulations and Thank You!

Superintendent of Schools and friend, Dr. Steven Cheeseman, has accepted the role of President & CEO of the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA). If the measure of the man is the difference he made, then Steve is a GIANT! Overseeing the Transforming the Paradigm of Catholic Education Initiative and increases in enrollment three consecutive years (and counting!) are just some of his many accomplishments. Godspeed on your next chapter, Dr. Cheeseman!

Transition at the Top

Tom McInerney, Foundations in Education’s Board Chair, graciously stepped into the role of Chair in 2019, following Bishop Frank Caggiano, our Founding Chair. Tom served with distinction, wisdom and an open heart since then. Words cannot express the depth of our appreciation for all Tom has done and continues to do for our students through his work with Foundations in Education. Suffice it to say, our students do not have a stronger nor more generous advocate than Tom McInerney!

Happily Tom will stay on the board as our Past Chair, as he passes the Leader’s torch to Joe Purcell. Joe, a self-described “banker” recently retired from Morgan Stanley, is an enthusiastic and energetic leader, who cares deeply for Catholic education and FIE’s mission. Joe joined the FIE Board in 2017 and most recently served as Vice Chair and Development Committee Chair. Joe is set to assume the Chair’s role effective July 1, 2024.

Thank you, Tom and Joe, for your volunteer service and your commitment to Foundations in Education’s mission, and most importantly our students.

Trustees Recently Honored

Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ received a Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters honoris casua at Albertus Magnus College. Sister Mary Grace Photographed with fellow trustees, Anne McCrory and Dr. Julia McNamara.

Bernard Reidy received the Nancy K. Dolan Leadership Award at the 2024 Immaculate High School Gala.

Deadline Extended to Apply for Tuition Assistance

Foundations in Education is pleased to extend the NEW Family deadline for two tuition assistance programs: Bishop’s Scholarship Fund for K-8 students in Diocesan Catholic Elementary Schools and The Mary Alice and Thomas O’Malley Scholarship for Kolbe Cathedral High School students.

The application window for both scholarships will remain open for New Families until remaining funds are awarded.

Click here for more information.

FIE Celebrates 10 Years

Beginning in July, Foundations in Education recognizes 2024-2025 as our 10th year. We plan to host events to celebrate Catholic education and the great work of our schools. We are grateful to the many donors who make this important work of transforming young lives possible and their impact through tuition assistance and Innovation and Leadership grants.

UPCOMING ANNIVERSARY EVENTS:

Oct. 3 - Leaders of Tomorrow Breakfast

Oct. 9 - Catholic Trivia Night, Brewport

Oct. 23 - 10th Anniversary Mass & Celebration

Jan. 30 - Innovation & Leadership Grants Reception

May 1 - 10th Anniversary Gala

For more information contact Emily at 203-416-1671 or Emily@foundationsineducation.org

Foundations in Education | 203.416.1405 | info@foundationsineducation.org | www.foundationsineducation.org