50 years and over 10,000 alumni were the perfect reasons for the student body of St. Aquinas / Bishop Ahr High School to celebrate on Friday, September 27. Taking a pause from the everyday rigors of academics, sports, service, and creative arts, students and faculty spent the day commemorating all of the students, teachers, administrators, and benefactors who have contributed to building STA/BGA to what it is today.
In the morning, the school community gathered for mass in the gym-transformed-into-church, amongst the echoes of the countless sporting events, student events, and masses that had taken place there throughout the years. Principal Sr. Donna called students’ attention to the consistent mission that has guided the school throughout the years: service to others, faith in God, and resolve for excellence. The Gospel reading mirrored this message, in which Jesus told his disciples, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” The energy during mass was unmistakable as students joined in with the liturgical choir’s performance of students’ favorite mass hymns. During the homily, Fr. Keith referred to the many historic events that have taken place during the last 50 years as well as the events both big and small that have taken place at STA/BGA recently and many years ago. “Whether we do these things in the classroom, on the playing field, on the stage, or in the chapel, we accept the challenges that face us because they are difficult, and they enrich our lives and the world around us.”
In the afternoon, the student body took to the football stadium by storm for one of the biggest and most invigorated pep rallies that the school has ever seen. Led by Student Council Athletic Chairperson Megan Herka ’20, Social Events Co-Chairperson Kishan Patel ’20, and History Teacher Mr. Patrick Gaston ’05, the student body collectively celebrated the athletic achievements of individuals and teams who are competing this fall. The event was highlighted by the marching band’s halftime performance, cheerleading routines, and gymnastics team acrobatics. The students were riled up with “We Are Aquinas” cheers, the wave, the rollercoaster, and a school favorite song: Big House. The day concluded with time for the whole student body to eat and socialize outside while enjoying the beautiful fall day.
“We wanted to provide our students, faculty and staff with the opportunity to bond as a community,” said Sr. Donna Marie Trukowski, principal. “Our students are a vital part of the St. Thomas Aquinas legacy of faith, knowledge, and success.”
As the day concluded and anticipation built for the even grander celebrations for alumni, faculty, and former faculty on Saturday, we once again thanked all those who have made and continue to make possible the mission and promise of St. Thomas Aquinas / Bishop Ahr High School.
