Alice Moreno
On April 26, alumni and current students of Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School in East Elmhurst joined together to celebrate the twenty-first annual President’s Dinner. It has been held yearly since 2003 at Russo on the Bay in Howard Beach. According to the program, the President’s Dinner is “to support quality education in the tradition of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.” Proceeds from the dinner go to the Endowment Fund, which supports financial aid for students and funds capital improvements to the school.
“[The event is] to honor the people who have contributed to the school and really care about the school,” said Nicholas Melito, the President of Msgr. McClancy and an alumnus from the class of 1976. “And getting everybody together to enjoy a night with our grads.”
During the dinner, two awards were presented: the Cor Jesu award — the highest award an Alumnus of McClancy can win — and the President’s Leadership Award. The Cor Jesu award was given to Frank Bruno, ‘70; Steven Casella, ‘81; and Brother Brian Curry, S.C. The President’s Leadership Award was given to Thomas Principle, ‘65.
Frank Bruno, an Astoria native, graduated from McClancy in 1970. He was the valedictorian of his class and the President of the student council. He attended Harvard Law School and had a long and successful career practicing security law before retiring in 2020. According to Pat Civitano, Bruno is known as a “steadfast supporter,” with his contributions making a difference to the school. In his speech, he notes various changes to the school since his graduation, but one constant remains — the school sticks true to its values.
Steven Casella, a Woodside native, graduated from McClancy in 1981. He was a baseball and basketball player throughout his high school career, which he fondly remembers as his most memorable moments. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and an M.B.A. in International Finance from St. John’s University and works as a Managing Director at Bank of America. He was awarded for his support and generosity to the school and his ongoing partnership. In his speech, he reminisces about a time in seventh grade when he attended a McClancy basketball game for the first time. He was enticed by the cheerleaders and basketball players he idolized, and it was enough to convince him to attend the school and join the team.
Brother Brian Curry, S.C., has worn many hats at McClancy since 1962, including being a teacher, track-and-field coach, guidance counselor, and mentor. He has also been a member of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart for over 65 years. He has impacted the lives of many students over the years, including Michael Soboka, a 2009 graduate of the school. Sobaka notes that Brother Curry lent an open ear to him during a dark time of his life, showing his love and support through their shared faith. Throughout his career, Curry has been a support system for the students who need it the most. In his speech, he reminisces about the times he had helped his students, hoping to provide them a safe space.
Thomas Principle graduated from McClancy in 1965 at the ripe age of 16. He attended St. John’s University School of Law, graduating in 1973, and works as a medical malpractice and personal injury lawyer. He also currently serves as a member of the McClancy Board of Directors since 2012 and is also their secretary. Recipients of the President’s Leadership Award are known for their “leadership, character, and value,” setting a strong example to the McClancy community, according to President Melito in his speech, where he introduced Principle. As part of his efforts, Principle, alongside his wife Irene Principle, created a $50,000 scholarship for the school’s tuition.
Monsignor McClancy Memorial High School is dedicated to helping its students succeed. Even 50 years later, their alumni are honored by receiving a golden diploma during the event. The President’s Dinner serves as a testimony that it is important to remember where one came from.
“What I want the guests to understand is those kids back there, they’re why we’re here,” said President Melito. “We’re all about teaching kids, keeping kids safe, and hopefully, they can be successful in life.”
