Marian Circle formed to Bolster the Cycle of Generosity for St. Mary’s

Principal Gerard J. Buckley warmly welcomed the guests, acknowledging them as the founding members of the Marian Circle. He explained that the group’s name and its star symbol are significant in relation to the school. “Marian” refers to our patroness, St. Mary, while additional definitions highlight the word as the “Star of the Sea.”

He emphasized the unique role of the benefactors, stating, “You are the people in the tradition of our Blessed Mother, providing the light to guide our school through these rough seas.” Principal Buckley highlighted that the evening was “more than just a gathering” but a celebration of the profound impact that our Catholic faith, education, and philanthropy can have when united for a common purpose. He reassured the audience of the school’s commitment to its mission, emphasizing the critical role of the benefactors: “For St. Mary’s High School, you are the star and light that leads the way for the formation and education of our students well into the future. Your support is instrumental in our ability to provide the best education alongside the formation of faith, character, and service.”

The guests also heard a first-hand testimonial from Miss Samantha Avdoulos, the Valedictorian of the Class of 2025, who learned of her academic ranking just the week before the event. Miss Avdoulos, a resident of Whitestone shared that she joined St. Mary’s High School midway through her first year, having previously attended the largest Catholic high school in the United States. She remarked, “Although the student body was vast, the opportunities were limited. I needed to be in a place that would allow me to exercise my strengths while supporting my interests academically, athletically, and artistically. As cliché as it sounds, St. Mary’s allowed me to be a big fish in a small pond rather than just another statistic. I believe that my involvement and accomplishments are a clear indication of the kind of well-rounded student that can be fostered here, as that is the primary goal for all students at St. Mary’s.” With a diverse range of electives, athletics, and extracurricular activities, Miss Avdoulos showcased her energetic involvement alongside her rigorous course of studies, which included serving as a Senior Shepherd and holding the position of class president for three consecutive terms. “I do not wish for my accomplishments to be seen as separating me from my classmates,” she said, “but rather as evidence that your support over the past 30 years has allowed my classmates and me to become the best versions of ourselves and to make our school as beautiful and functional as it can be. St. Mary’s has brought me closer to the person I’ve always wanted to become. For that, I am forever grateful to all of you.”

If Miss Avdoulos’ class rank isn’t convincing enough, she also mentioned that the academic challenges she faced inspired her to work harder, giving her “the confidence to apply Early Decision to Boston College School of Management,” where she will attend this fall alongside her sibling, who graduated from St. Mary’s two years prior. Additionally, the eight Advanced Placement classes she completed will transfer as college credits as a freshman, earning her the AP Scholar with Honors award.

Overall, the newly recognized founding members of the Marian Circle were assured that their commitment and generosity toward the school are deeply appreciated and essential in this ever-changing educational landscape, affirming their desire to support Catholic education and serve as beacons of light for students today and in the years to come.

If you would like to learn more about how your support can significantly impact students’ success at St. Mary’s High School, please contact Mr. Buckley at 516-627-2711 or by email.