March/April 2026
Embedded Files
Remembering Joel Stephens
Remembering Joel Stephens
by Monica Shattuck
On March 20, 2026, we celebrated Joel Stephens’ 50th birthday in our auditorium. The distinguished graduate of Notre Dame passed away from colon cancer in 1998 at just 22 years old, cutting short what was to be a very remarkable athletic career. And, as we learned from hosts Terry Day and Andy Malnoske, Joel not only shone on the field in football and baseball, but off the field too, with his dedication to God and neighbor. Throughout his life, Joel showed many Christian characteristics, from his humility to his mercy in competition. One remarkable example of his kindness was that after games, he would visit with his ill and sick fans - even in the midst of his cancer, he visited the other kids who were in the hospital with him. A huge "thank you" is due to Mrs McCaig, who organized this whole tribute to Joel. Also, thank you to the presenters who took time out of their day for their lovely memories of him. All in all, on and off the field, Joel Stephens’ greatness was very evident, and he is still remembered for his love of God and the impact he had.
Click the poster to see pictures from the show on our Facebook page!
The ND Spotlighters Went Into the Woods in April!
The ND Spotlighters Went Into the Woods in April!
by Addison Learn
The Notre Dame Theatre Department performed Into the Woods on April 25th at 7 pm and April 26th at 2 pm. Into the Woods is an award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine that follows fairytale characters venturing into the woods to get their wishes. On their journeys, they discovered things about themselves and their hearts’ true desires that they never knew before. The cast list is as follows:
Sabrina O’Connor as the Witch
Robert Granger as the Baker
Addy Learn as the Baker’s Wife
Elle Carvellas as Cinderella
Joey Gallaher as the Narrator
Emma Nichols as Little Red
Riley Radford-White as Jack
Sophie Sramek as Jack’s Mother
Michael Parker as Rapunzel’s Prince
Chimmy Okonkwo as Cinderella’s Prince
Dom Caporiccio as Wolf/Cinderella’s Father
Annemarie Rodriguez as Rapunzel
Bryce Gooshaw as The Mysterious Man
Payton Sutryk as The Stepmother
Nayeli Jayne as Florinda
Gabby Wood as Lucinda
Millie Melbie as Cinderella’s Mother
Alivia Gowan as Grandma/Giant
Kaylin Hooks as Stewardess
Mary Ugwoke-Onuzuruike as Snow White
Teagan Matteson as Sleeping Beauty
Kaylin Moore as Hansel
Trinity Riddick as Gretel
Lilly Moore as Rose Red
Living Stations
Living Stations
by Payton Sutryk
On the day before Spring Break, Notre Dame held a "Living Stations of the Cross." The event was open to the public, and all students attended as well. Mrs. Ronsivalle’s Mercy and Justice class acted, read, and controlled the lighting. Women’s Select Choir sang, and a duet of “Via Dolorosa” was performed beautifully by Elle Carvellas and Annemarie Rodriguez. This was a very emotional and spiritual presentation that reminded Crusaders of the true meaning of Easter and prepared them for Jesus’ resurrection on Sunday. Thank you to all who helped organize this event. Special shout-out to Mrs. McCaig, who always works so hard on preparing the seniors each year to do this event.
Empty Bowls Luncheon
Empty Bowls Luncheon
by Ellie Green
The Empty Bowls Luncheon, hosted by Catholic Charities, took place on March 24th, 2026, at Elmira Notre Dame High School. This annual event raises awareness about hunger and poverty in the community while supporting the Samaritan Center, which provides food and essential resources to people in need. Guests shared a simple meal of soup and bread and had the opportunity to receive a handmade ceramic bowl created by local artists and students. These specially made bowls symbolize the empty bowls many families face each day. Over the years, the event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to help fight hunger and support local families.
Notre Dame Students and staff helped make the event possible in many ways. Members of the Notre Dame choir performed during the luncheon. Two students from the Junior Ladies of Charity spoke about Notre Dame’s service and the difference the school has made in the community. Other students volunteered by setting up the event, providing valet parking for guests, and refilling water throughout the luncheon.
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