EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one in a series looking at what Northeast Ohio communities, school districts and organizations experienced in 2024 and what is facing them in 2025. Lake Catholic High School President John Morabeto was grateful for the support of the community, alumni and donors when reflecting on 2024. Morabeto addressed their importance to the school by saying, “Lake Catholic’s momentum and continued growth would be nothing without you.” The community came together and donated $65,000 in just one 24-hour period during the #weGIVECATHOLIC campaign. This is the largest amount of funds Lake Catholic has ever raised during this campaign. Funded by donors, new locker rooms at Lake Catholic for both boys’ and girls’ gym classes and athletics, which are a part of the newly named Zappitelli Athletic Performance Center, were noted by President John Morabeto as a major upgrade for the school in 2024. (Courtesy of Matt Trem) In addition, Morabeto noted significant strides in enhancing the campus this past year with a focus on improving facilities for both students and faculty. They’ve completed upgrades to the locker rooms, chapel, teachers’ lounge and security system, all thanks to philanthropic support. “These improvements help create an environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually and socially and where our faculty and staff can feel supported and valued,” he said. Morabeto was excited to announce that they’ve completed a strategic planning process and intend to share it with the entire community in early 2025. “This plan outlines our vision for the future of Lake Catholic, a vision that builds upon our strong foundation while addressing the needs and opportunities of our growing community,” he said. “We’re committed to enhancing every aspect of our school, from academics to athletics, from student life to faith formation and this strategic plan will serve as a roadmap to guide our continued success.” Another milestone reached this year is a 30 percent increase in enrollment for the incoming freshman class. “It’s clear that our school’s reputation for excellence continues to grow, and we look forward to seeing these young people flourish during their time here,” Morabeto said. “And that momentum hasn’t dwindled. “We’ve expanded our reach throughout Northeast Ohio, hosted nearly 200 eighth graders during our VIP Shadow Days and had a record number of families attend our fall open house, providing future Cougars with the opportunity to experience firsthand what it means to be part of the Lake Catholic community.” On the athletics side, Lake Catholic held its inaugural Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Morabeto said this event not only honored the legacy of the athletes but also led to the first-ever Athletics Day of Giving. In addition to athletics, they also resumed the Hall of Excellence awards, which celebrate outstanding community members honoring their service to the school or professional success. This year’s inductees are Mike Denk, Class of 1983, and Michael DeSantis, a former faculty member, for Service to the School; and Dr. Paul Tesar, from the Class of 1999, for his Professional Success. “These inductees serve as a testament to the impact of a Lake Catholic education and the lasting influence of our community,” Morabeto said. He stressed that at Lake Catholic, faith is at the heart of everything they do, and the Campus Ministry team continued to inspire and challenge students and staff led by new Director of Mission and Formation Cari Foster. “Cari has been instrumental in implementing our retreats, coordinating our Thursday-morning masses and rosary in our chapel before school and the Turkey Day tradition, as our senior class visited eight different locations to provide service to our community,” Morabeto said. He added he was also proud to announce the launch of “The Spirit of Lake Catholic” podcast, a new initiative aimed at sharing the stories of faith, the students and the community. And during the Thanksgiving Food Drive, they collected more than 10,000 cans of food for the Cleveland Food Bank. “All of this to say, the generosity and compassion (continue) to permeate from our student body, faculty and staff,” Morabeto said. “As we look ahead, there’s still much work to be done, but we have much to be excited about.” In July, they will host a Grand Reunion for all classes ending in 0s and 5s — highlighted by the school hosting the Class of 1975 as it celebrates its 50th class reunion. The entire weekend will be a celebration of the Lake Catholic legacy, bringing together alumni from every generation. “This event will be a chance to reconnect, reminisce and honor the impact of our school,” Morabeto said. Last year, Lake Catholic established the Torch of Loyalty Award. It is the highest honor that is bestowed upon an individual, family or organization. This award is designed to honor extraordinary individuals demonstrating the core values of Lake Catholic and a commitment to the success of the school for generations to come. Last year, the Rev. Marty Polito and the Christ Child Society of the Western Reserve were the first recipients of this award. “Father Marty was a wonderful example of an individual who made an impact on thousands of students here at Lake Catholic. And Christ Child Society has done just the same — impacting more than 100 students and families by making a Lake Catholic education more affordable.”