|
May 27, 2025
Dear Tampa Catholic Friends and Family,
What an extraordinary moment it was to witness the Class of 2025 walk across the stage at the Straz Center on May 19th. Surrounded by proud families, faculty, and friends, 163 Tampa Catholic seniors marked the close of one chapter and the beginning of a new journey—armed with faith, purpose, and the strength of our community behind them.
From academics to athletics, and service projects to spiritual growth, this graduating class brought heart and excellence to everything they touched. Their legacy will be felt for years to come.
We were especially honored to award Denard Span '02 with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Denard shared his journey from Tampa Catholic to a successful career in professional baseball and now, as a man devoted to family and service through the Denard Span Foundation. His message of faith and perseverance—even in moments of uncertainty or when the path ahead isn't fully clear—was a powerful inspiration to our graduates.
The evening’s celebration was made even more meaningful by our Valedictorian, Grace Mercado, whose speech reminded us all of the deep connections and life-changing experiences that define a TC education. Her reflections on friendship, growth, and gratitude offered a powerful send-off that echoed long after the final applause.
The Class of 2025 will leave TC to attend 47 different colleges and universities, with one student enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. They will go on to carry the Crusader legacy to 15 states across the country—and even overseas to Ireland. Their destinations reflect a wide range of ambitions and talents, from the University of Notre Dame to the University of Florida, Florida State, Samford, Dayton, Alabama, Mississippi, Baldwin Wallace, and many more across the nation.
As these young men and women step into the future, they take with them the spirit of Tampa Catholic—rooted in faith, driven by excellence, and bound together as family. Their next steps may take them far from our halls, but they will always have a home here.
Please join us in celebrating the Class of 2025 as they officially join our alumni community. We can’t wait to see how they shine.
| 
