Page 24 - Griffin Connection 2020

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL, DR. GERE

This morning I reflect on Mike Kozzi who recently passed.
Mike was one of the early pioneers of Lay teachers at then
St. Joseph High School. Along with Steve Gepp. Mike
helped to shape the history of our school. He is among
the names that we need to remember. When I arrived in
1988, Mike was the Assistant Principal. He was also a
successful Girls’ basketball coach. Mike excelled at class-
room supervision. He gently guided our teachers towards
improving their teaching skills. He was also instrumental in
my decision to pursue my doctorate at Seton Hall. Mike
had started there a few years before me.

The History of Catholic Education mentions the tremen-
dous contributions of the Religious, especially the Sisters,
when it comes to the success and growth of Catholic Edu-
cation in the United States. Not to be lost, is the contribu-
tion of the early Lay Faculty, like Mike, who in the late
1960’s and early 1970’s, were instrumental in making sure
that Catholic Schools continued to flourish. Thank you,
Mike.

23
We Remember Mike Kozzi

Let us prayer, Dear Lord, thank you for the

early lay pioneers in Catholic education.

Today the Catholic community of Donovan Catholic

reflects on the life of Mike Kozzi. Thank you for his

contributions to our school. Bless his family, especially

his wife Judy, and continue to bless us as we in these

trying times, continue to do your will. In Jesus name.

Amen.

https://www.toalebrothers.com/obituaries/Michael-
Kozzi/