All Saints Day calls us to honor the Church’s saints and reflect on our own lives. “I see you act like saints in your daily actions with one another,” shared Fr. Leo during his All Saints homily, “Even when you disagree with someone - you all make decisions to take the higher road, to act as a saint would.” This month, in observance of All Souls and Dia de Los Muertos, Fr. Leo and Fr. Jim prayed for all those in our community who have passed away. Thank you, Dragon community, for submitting names of your loved ones. We hold those who are grieving in our hearts this month.

Based on Studs Terkel’s best-selling book, this year’s fall musical Working! celebrates the hard work the world often takes for granted. From childcare to guest services, the moving musical numbers will have you ready to show gratitude to the unsung heroes of the workforce. In her review, Crozier Editor in Chief, Orelia Oiknine wrote, “Punctuated with dynamic choreography and mesmerizing vocals, Working! both told an important story and entertained the O’Dowd community.” Tickets are still available for this weekend! 

Our Mock Trial team had a competitive showing at the Empire Competition in Chicago earlier this month, with Jamie Collins ’24 tying for 10th place as Best Attorney, Ramona McNish ’24 tying in 10th place for Best Witness, and London Walker ’26 winning Most Outstanding Witness. “Mock Trial has made a lasting impact on my O’Dowd experience,” shares Jamie. “I’ve been able to find my passion, make friends with others, and compete against schools around the world. It was amazing to represent O’Dowd in Chicago with my teammates and be honored for our hard work.”

Dr. Daniel Stephens ’94, a NY-based pediatrician and educator, has been named executive director of Ramapo for Children’s at the Rhinebeck campus. The 100-year old organization is dedicated to creating inclusive communities that provide opportunities for children and young people with a range of social, emotional, developmental, and neurological differences. Prior to joining Ramapo, Dr. Stephens was the interim National Director of the Wellness & Equity Alliance and Deputy Commissioner for Children and Families at the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Thank you to everyone in our community who joined us for the Transforming Lives Dinner. “It was wonderful to come together and collectively support the mission of O’Dowd,” said Rebecca Bischoff, Chief Development Officer. “Through the generosity of parents, alumni, families, and friends, we raised $455,000 for tuition assistance, ensuring our school is available to so many deserving students."

Earlier this month, new dugouts for our upper field arrived, fully built and ready to install. While a crane operator carefully lifted and placed the buildings in their permanent homes, our Creation Care Team provided excavated soil from the Living Lab for the construction crew to complete the field’s leveled foundation. The synthetic infield will be installed later this month. We can’t wait to watch some softball and baseball this spring!