Photo: Tom Harrison

The evening began with a Mass celebrated by Fr. John Serio, ’71 SDB, and the homily talked to the hearts of educators. The pipers led the procession to the blessing and dedication of our new Hall of Fame display wall and interactive kiosk. Tom Harrison, ’00 developed the computer site and entered all of the available data on our Hall of Fame members. Needless to say, the new display is fabulous and a constant reminder to our students to continue to reach new heights in all aspects of life.

Photos: Tom Harrison

The comments from honorees were personal, instructive and humorous. As I reflect on the evening two thoughts come to mind. Never give educators a three minute time limit on comments as they are much more comfortable in the long form, and be prepared for anything as you come up on the hour of the party.

Photo: Tom Harrison

There were a couple of technological gifts during the evening with a visit by Brother John Klein spending five minutes with us on “being a Marist Educator” and then commenting on the careers of his two brothers, Brother James Maher and Brother Roy George. At the last minute, Mary Pat Gannon’s Atlanta based family was not able to attend due to weather challenges. With the wonders of modern technology, we were able to bring her mom, brother and sister-in-law to the event in a recorded message.

Brother Pat Hogan’s Invocation gave us all cause to pause and be grateful. Jim Sheehan provided music for the Mass and cocktail party, Tom Harrison and Frank Bailey captured the evening photographically and a group of volunteers from the class of 1968 helped with administrative responsibilities - Thanks to Mike Friend, Joe Martino and Don McGee for their help. Thanks to everyone in the Office of Advancement for their continued support in planning and delivering these events. Also, Steve Kerrigan, and Dan Charvet from the class of ’02 provided additional behind the scenes support with logistics and technology. Ken Auer and volunteer students helped with assorted chores and I noticed that at least ten silent volunteers pitched in without being asked to help. I did spy Kathy Loughran and Kathy Forgione running around pitching in and getting things done… Thanks to all!

A special note of thanks to John Sherry for having the foresight to move the Hall of Fame to a place of prominence in the school. More than one person stopped, many with a tear in their eye and touched the picture of a favorite teacher or mentor. It brings new meaning to our motto – Non Scholae Sed Vitae!

Photos: Francis X. Bailey

Browse all photos from the 2008 Archbishop Molloy Hall of Fame Induction.