“Think of the tremendous goodness that has happened here over 90 years.” This comment, shared by Bishop William Walterscheid in his homily at a Mass celebrating the 90th anniversary of OLSH summed up the ministry of the school since its founding in 1932. The Felician Sisters founded the school when they saw a need in the area, and OLSH has continued to serve students by providing an exceptional educational experience rooted in faith. In her remarks later that morning, OLSH president, Terry O’Rourke Donoghue, noted the great impact of the Sisters’, commenting, “Their leadership, determination, deliberate decision-making, and strategic investments made possible the enduring legacy of our school – the only Catholic high school sponsored by a congregation of religious sisters still in existence in western Pennsylvania. We are exceptionally proud of that distinction, and dedicated to ensuring that OLSH lives on in perpetuity.”

To commemorate the milestone anniversary, the Mass and brunch events were attended by current students and parents, alumni, faculty, staff, board members, and other friends and benefactors of the school. Guests at brunch enjoyed a display of photos and yearbooks and a video produced by John Wojtechko ’14 that featured current students reflecting on their OLSH experiences. Additional speakers at the brunch included principal Tim Plocinik and board chair Bill Richardson, who spoke of the success of OLSH alumni, current accomplishments and points of distinction, and pride in the school. Sr. Judith Marie Kubicki, Provincial Minister of the Felician Sisters, Our Lady of Hope Province and Sr. Mary Geralyn Mroczkowski, CEO of Felician Sisters, Inc. also offered their congratulations and appreciation for the good work of the ministry. Sr. Geralyn noted the way that, “everyone at OLSH knows how to make you feel like you are part of something more when you are there.”

The gathering presented an enjoyable way in which to recognize and celebrate the school’s history. Bishop Walterscheid ended his homily by inviting all those associated with the school to ask God to “use us through the ministry of OLSH and the charism of the Felician Sisters to go out and change the world.” OLSH has been carrying out that mission for 90 years, and intends to do so for at least 90 more!