CBA celebrated Founder’s Day on Monday, May 21 with a full-slate of activities.

The day kicked off with an Amazing Race Homeroom challenge. The goal was for each homeroom to complete five challenges, plus watch a video, which resulted in obtaining six “Certificates of Completion.” The challenges included completing a logic problem (math), a mandala (art), crossword puzzle (St. LaSalle), memorization of the text of the CBA Alma mater (music), a hoola hoop activity (physical education) and the video (service).

After the homeroom challenge, students gathered in the gym for a speed painting and inspirational speaking show by artist and performance painter Tom Varano. Varano shared personal stories and then created art work, which represented various emotions.

Senior girls pose for a photo prior to Mass at Alibrandi Stadium.

Students then headed to Alibrandi Stadium, where Father Chris Ballard Pastor of Our Lady of Hope church was the celebrant at Mass. Many members of the senior class participated in the Mass as readers and Eucharistic ministers. The Jubliee Group provided the music. President Brother Joseph Jozwiak, FSC blessed the senior class. Senior Catherine Burns recited a poem. Following Mass, Principal Matt Keough addressed the class of 2018, highlighting various senior speeches.

Principal Matt Keough’s Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMDj6HQ-Z6U

The seniors, clad in their college choice t-shirts, then lined up along the track as underclassmen, faculty and staff, went through the line to share hugs and goodbyes in a very emotional send-off.

Senior David Gross embraces an underclassman.

The entire student body, staff and faculty were treated to lunch, compliments of the Parents Club.

After lunch, students worked on various service projects including making sandwiches, cookies, socks for senior citizens, bracelets for after school programs, busy books for children, placemats for Emmaus Ministry and planting tomato seeds for the Food Bank. In addition, musician Bob Halligan ’71 taught the entire student body the Alma mater. The students also watched the senior video, which was produced by classmate Virginia Nash.  Senior Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvXn8N7RlVI

The day concluded with Brother Joseph announcing this year’s Valedictorian Grace Getman and Salutatorian Meghan Graber; and the senior class posing for one last group photo.

Students make sandwiches as part of one of the service projects.

Students sing the alma mater.

For additional photos, visit our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/cbasyracuse