2023 Graduating classes earn $108 million in scholarships and awards

Among the outstanding achievements of the graduating class of 2023, the 429 graduates of the four Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Metuchen together received more than $108 million in scholarships and awards from its high schools, all while emphasizing the profound impact of Catholic identity on their educational journey.

Among the four Catholic high schools within the Church of Metuchen, which include Immaculata, St. Thomas Aquinas, Mount Saint Mary Academy, and Saint Joseph, the graduates averaged $250,192 in scholarships and awards per student, totaling approximately 54,377 hours of service over the course of their four years, and have achieved a 100 percent college acceptance rate, with an average of 82 percent of graduates receiving scholarships and awards.

Graduating seniors who received the 2023 Bishop James F. Checchio Award for Religion include Matthew Kolakowski of Immaculata High School; Gabrielle Cruz of St. Thomas Aquinas High School; Julie Falcone and Giulianna Pelcher of Mount Saint Mary Academy, and Timothy Haklar of Saint Joseph High School. 

Navigating an ever-changing world, the Diocese of Metuchen has remained steadfast in its commitment to instilling a strong Catholic identity within its educational institutions. The graduating Class of 2023 in the Diocese of Metuchen have actively engaged in the development of their faith, participating in religious studies, sacramental preparation, and various spiritual activities. 

They have embraced the Church’s mission to foster a deep connection with God and to live out the Gospel values in their daily lives. By expressing their Catholic identity, they have consistently demonstrated a commitment to service, engaging in numerous community outreach programs and demonstrating compassion towards those in need. Their acts of kindness and generosity reflect the values instilled within them and are a testament to the transformative power of Catholic education and their relationship with Jesus Christ.