BY JOHN E. USALIS

HOMETOWN — Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, Marian Catholic High School recently launched its New Donor Challenge, encouraging people to make their first contribution to The Marian Fund.

“We have been blessed with an anonymous donor who will match up to $50,000 for all new donations that we receive to the Marian Fund over the next few months,” said Director of Advancement Kristine Evina, noting the potential for $100,000. “This is a wonderful opportunity for the school to receive a substantial boost in our annual Marian Fund revenue. It is also a chance for new supporters to double the impact of their donation to the school.”

The effort will run through June 30, the end of the school’s 2020-21 fiscal year. The money will be used in the school’s annual operation.

Evina said the school has 239 students and 50 staff, including 25 teachers.

“We have a lot of work to do to get new donors. It’s exciting,” she said. “Bill O’Gurek, who is our alumni association chair, wanted to get the word out about this big news. What’s nice about it is that every dollar donated to Marian goes back to Marian.”

Officials said tax-deductible gifts to the Marian Fund help:

  • Narrow the gap between tuition revenue and actual cost to educate each student.
  • Promote an environment of academic and extracurricular excellence.
  • Sustain necessary facility management and updates approved by the board of directors.
  • Help attract the most qualified and distinguished faculty and staff.
  • Offer state-of-the-art technology for optimal learning.

The Rev. Allen J. Hoffa, Marian’s head of school, is proud to see the support.

“One of the things that we have been able to find is there is an incredible base of support for Marian Catholic in the community, current families in our alumni and also additional benefactors,” he said.

The 2018-19 has raised about $200,000 and $500,000 in the past two fiscal years.

“This year we’re on track to raise $400,000,” Hoffa said. “It shows there is incredible support for Marian from people who believe in Marian and Catholic education,” he said.

To donate, visit mariancatholichs.org. For additional information, contact Evina at kevina@mariancatholichs.org or 570-467-3335, ext. 115.

Contact the writer: jusalis@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6023