Page 4 - The Paduan Summer 2021

President’s Message
I am a proud Parma boy, born and raised. I attended St. Charles, and 35 years ago
I graduated from Padua Franciscan High School with the first coed class in 1986. Deacon Belsito was my senior year theology teacher. I remember him talking about the importance of seeking out God’s plan in our lives and that when we follow that plan, incredible things are in store for us. Like most teenagers, I decided to follow my own path for a while, but eventually I opened my heart to what God was calling me to do.
I recently completed my 30th year of ministry in the Diocese of Cleveland, and this year marks my 25th year serving at Padua Franciscan. I have been blessed along the way to serve as a theology teacher, campus minister, coach, principal, and now the president of my alma mater. In no possible way could I have ever imagined this plan that
God had for me. What an incredible journey it has been. And the journey continues...
This entire magazine is dedicated to celebrating Padua Franciscan: Where we started, what we have been through, and where we are going. In this issue you will learn all about the incredible growth that we have had under Fr. Allan’s leadership. You will read about our successful navigation through a pandemic and all the great moments we were able to celebrate as a school. Also, within these pages you will read about the exciting renovation projects, student successes, and the academic programs that continue to make us a premier high school in Northeast Ohio.
Lastly, you will read about the exciting changes that have been made to our leadership team; our new principal, vice principal, and assistant principals will transition into new roles this summer. I am so very excited about this team. They are dynamic, incredibly gifted and faith-filled people who will strengthen our community and lead us further than before. And the journey continues...
This August, Padua enters into its 60th year, having opened her doors in 1961. Though many of the spaces and places in the school have changed over the years the heart and faith of this Franciscan school remains strong. Padua’s mission to strive for excellence in holiness and learning is at the core of what we do. Our future is strong because of the prayers and generosity of our alumni and those who love Padua.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the exciting events that are planned for our jubilee, starting with our 60th Anniversary Mass on August 14th. This will be an extraordinary night filled with faith, friends, and even fireworks. I would love for you and your family to be a part of this special kick-off event.
As I reflect upon my 29 years here at the school, one thing is certain, this school has transformed me in holiness and learning. The impact of teachers, friars, and friends over the years has helped me to be who I am today and I will bring all of that joy, faith, and fervor into my presidency. Thanks to the many who have been on this journey with me. I look forward to continuing this work with you to make Padua Franciscan even better. And as always, Go Bruins!
Peace and all good,
David G. Stec '86 President
School Leadership
David Stec ’86
President
Robert DiRocco
Principal
Elizabeth Oles Smith
Vice Principal
Chistopher Dziedzicki ’02
Mary Zolkowski
Assistant Principal of Young Women
Stephen Suding
Vice President of Mission & Ministry
Dcn. Matthew Harley, Sr.
Director of Campus Ministry
Andrew Shuman ’95
Kevin Leigh ’89
Athletic Director
Ann Marie (Parente) Frattare ’94
Director of Enrollment
Ann-Marie (Lehman) DiPaolo ’86
Vice President of Finance
Rachel (Teron) DeGirolamo ’02
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Assistant Principal of Young Men
Director of Counseling Services
Director of Communication & PR