Because of You: A Million Reasons to Celebrate!

On Saturday, May 2, the Notre Dame Cristo Rey community gathered for an unforgettable evening at the Scholars Today – Leaders Tomorrow Gala & Auction. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our supporters, the event raised more than $1 million in support of our students and mission.

The evening was filled with joy, gratitude, and celebration as alumni, benefactors, Corporate Work Study partners, families, faculty/staff, and friends of NDCR came together in support of the transformative opportunities our students receive each day.

Throughout the evening, President Sr. Maryalyce Gilfeather, SNDdeN, Ph.D., recognized the many individuals whose generosity, dedication, and belief in our students continue to make the mission of Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School possible.

Guests were warmly welcomed by 27 outstanding NDCR Student Ambassadors whose professionalism, enthusiasm, and personal stories reflected the heart of the NDCR experience.

One of the evening’s most moving moments came from STUDENT SPEAKER Warleny Sanchez-Martinez ’26, who shared her personal journey and reflected on the opportunities NDCR has provided her and her classmates. This fall, Warleny will attend the University of Notre Dame.

Guests were also inspired by ALUMNI SPEAKER Dr. Marcos Peña Veras — who officially earned the title “Doctor” just one week after the Gala as he completed his doctorate in Occupational Therapy. His story reflected the lasting impact of a Notre Dame Cristo Rey education and the power of perseverance, gratitude, and community.

The evening also featured a spirited live auction, exciting raffles, and meaningful moments of connection and celebration. Most importantly, it served as a powerful reminder of what is possible when the NDCR community comes together in mission.

To every donor, sponsor, volunteer, Corporate Work Study partner, ambassador, attendee, and supporter — thank you. Because of you, our students continue to learn, lead, serve, and thrive!

Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School is proud to celebrate and recognize the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2026.

Earlier this month, students, families, faculty, and staff gathered together for the special announcement led by Principal Mabel Dominguez ’09. During the celebration, Mrs. Dominguez reflected on the importance of honoring not only academic excellence, but also the leadership, compassion, perseverance, and commitment these students have shown throughout their journey at NDCR.

“These students represent the very best of Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School — not simply for what they have achieved academically, but for the way they have led, supported others, and grown into young adults of faith, character, and purpose,” shared Mrs. Dominguez.

The announcement was filled with emotion, pride, and joy as families, classmates, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate this meaningful milestone together. It was a beautiful reminder of the sacrifices, support, and love that help guide students throughout their journey to graduation and beyond.

We look forward to hearing their reflections, stories, and words of inspiration during their Graduation speeches on June 6 as the Class of 2026 celebrates this important milestone!

Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Hasling as the school’s new Vice Principal!

Since joining the NDCR community in 2019 as a math teacher, Ashley Hasling has continually demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to the mission of Notre Dame Cristo Rey.

“Ashley has been an important part of strengthening instruction, supporting our teachers, and always keeping students at the center of every decision we make as a school community,” said Principal Mabel Dominguez. “Her leadership, dedication, and belief in our mission have made a lasting impact on NDCR.”

Ashley recently completed the Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program at the University of Notre Dame, further preparing her for Catholic school leadership. To learn more about Ashley’s journey and commitment to the mission of NDCR, read her feature in our 2025 Summer Newsletter.

In addition to her academic leadership, Ashley also co leads the NDCR Girl Scout Troop, one of the largest troops in Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts.

As Vice Principal, Ashley will continue working closely with faculty, staff, students, and families to support the academic and personal growth of all students while helping lead NDCR into the future.

Please join us in congratulating Ashley Hasling on this exciting new role.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the Notre Dame Cristo Rey Corporate Work Study Program is the opportunity for students to grow not only professionally, but personally through real-world experience, mentorship, and community support.

This year, senior Emilka V.R. '26 completed her Corporate Work Study placement with the Medical Records team at Merrimack Valley. As Emilka prepares for graduation, her supervisor, Teresa Rousseau, reflected on the impact of the experience — both for Emilka and for their team.

Hi Dean,

Our experience with our first Notre Dame Cristo Rey work study student was very positive.

I met with Emilka on Thursday, her last day with us, to reflect on her experience and gather feedback that may help us better support future students. Overall, her time with our Medical Records team was meaningful and successful.

Over the past seven months, Emilka shared that one of the most important skills she developed was time management. She also highlighted communication as one of the most valuable experiences she will carry into future jobs and career opportunities.

When reflecting on what was most meaningful during her time here, she emphasized our supportive staff, clear direction, and defined expectations. She shared that learning new tasks in an “adult world” environment challenged her in positive ways and helped her grow personally and professionally.

One of the biggest life lessons she plans to carry forward is learning to use her voice, especially when she has questions — an important skill both in school and future workplaces.

When asked what additional opportunities she would have appreciated, Emilka expressed interest in having more time shadowing other clinical areas to broaden her understanding of the medical field. She also shared that this experience opened her eyes to more career possibilities within healthcare.

Her advice to future students was simple but meaningful: “Do not be nervous — the MV team will support you!”

Overall, this was a rewarding experience for both Emilka and our team, and I look forward to using her feedback to continue strengthening this program for future students.

Thank you,

Terri

We are deeply grateful to our Corporate Work Study partners for investing in our students, mentoring future professionals, and helping bring the mission of Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School to life each and every day.

A Celebration of Talent, Culture, and Community

There are some events that entertain, and there are others that bring a community together. This year's Musical Revue, In Our Neighborhood, did both.

Featuring songs from beloved Broadway productions, the revue took audiences on an emotional journey through themes of identity, hope, perseverance, belonging, and joy. The music reflected the experiences of many Notre Dame Cristo Rey students while honoring the Latin heritage and rich culture that makes our community so special.

From the opening number to the final curtain call, the energy in the room was extraordinary. Families, friends, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters filled the gymnasium with applause, dancing, waving flags, and ultimately a standing ovation. It felt less like a performance and more like a celebration of who we are as a community!

Students showcased remarkable talent through powerful vocals, dynamic choreography, and heartfelt storytelling. Just as impressive was the dedication of the student crew, whose work behind the scenes kept the production running smoothly. Their efforts extended beyond the stage as they also helped create social media content that built excitement leading up to the show.

A special thank you goes to Mrs. Jacqueline Billings, whose vision, leadership, and dedication brought In Our Neighborhood to life. Through months of preparation and encouragement, she created an opportunity for students to share their gifts, celebrate their identities, and shine with confidence.

No description can truly do justice to what unfolded that evening. The joy, pride, and sense of belonging that filled the room can only be fully appreciated by those who experienced it firsthand.

More than a musical revue, In Our Neighborhood was a celebration of culture, community, and the extraordinary talent of our students. It was a powerful reminder of what makes Notre Dame Cristo Rey such a special place to learn, grow, and belong.

CLICK on the Photo to the Left for a short VIDEO of NDCR's Musical Revue!

The senior retreat, "Methuen in a Day: Living the Mission", served as a meaningful bookend to the freshmen retreat, "Cuvilly in a Day: Rooted in Mission", inviting students to reflect on how they have grown in faith throughout their years at Notre Dame Cristo Rey.

Held at the peaceful Grotonwood in Groton, Massachusetts, the day gave the Class of 2026 an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate their journey together.

Throughout the retreat, seniors reflected on their past, embraced the present, and looked ahead to the future as they prepare to carry forward the Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the Core Values of NDCR, and the understanding that God’s presence can be found all around them.

“My favorite part of the retreat was the love you could feel throughout the entire day. It was almost tangible in the smiles, the affirmations, and even some tears.”- Campus Minister Jill Joyce

Teacher John Versteeg reflected on the Class of 2026 through a heartfelt speech and slideshow celebrating their years at NDCR. He also recognized the students he has taught during all four years of high school, a moment that brought smiles and tears to many in the room.

As part of the retreat, seniors also wrote letters to the incoming freshman Class of 2030, offering advice, encouragement, and reminders to cherish the journey ahead as they begin their own NDCR experience.

Students also received special memory books featuring photos from their freshmen year alongside their senior portraits. The books included space for classmates to write affirmations to one another as students reflected on the “results of God’s friendship,” advice from teachers, and a Miraculous Medal generously donated by Liz Powers.

Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School also extends sincere gratitude to the faculty and staff who helped make the retreat possible, including Bailey Magazzu, Sean Moran, Ashley Hasling, John Versteeg, Beth Young, and Nurse Nicole.

Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School welcomed alumni, students, families, faculty, staff, and friends back to campus on May 15 for the 3rd Annual Legacy Basketball Game, an evening filled with school spirit, laughter, and community connection!

Hosted by Director of Alumni Relations Dory Schofield, the annual Alumni vs. Students matchup has quickly become a favorite NDCR tradition, bringing together graduates and current students through friendly competition and shared school pride. Leading up to the game, excitement built across campus as students and staff eagerly discussed the player matchups and team rosters throughout the school day.

The gym was filled with energy as alumni returned to the court to take on the student team in front of a crowd of cheering supporters. After an exciting game, the alumni team claimed victory with a final score of 62 to 51!

More than just a basketball game, the Legacy Game continues to serve as a celebration of the lifelong connection alumni share with Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School. The evening highlighted the strength of the NDCR community and the lasting bonds formed through faith, friendship, and shared experiences.

Notre Dame Cristo Rey extends sincere thanks to everyone who participated, attended, and helped make this year’s Legacy Game another memorable success.

Those interested in joining the NDCR Alumni Committee, which helps organize events like the Legacy Game and supports the continued growth of the NDCR community, are encouraged to contact DORY SCHOFIELD, Director of Alumni

CLICK Mr. Weymouth's Picture to see a video of the event!

Panther pride was on full display as Notre Dame Cristo Rey students, coaches, faculty, and staff gathered for the Athletics Banquet, an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements, dedication, and spirit of our student-athletes.

Hosted by Athletic Director Jim Weymouth and opened with a prayer by Jill Joyce, the banquet recognized the commitment, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership demonstrated by Panther athletes throughout the year. Seniors were honored with their athletic cords, recognizing their dedication to their teams and the lasting impact they have made on the athletic community at NDCR.

The evening included several memorable surprises. Sister Mary Murphy, SNDdeN, Ph.D., President Emerita, was recognized for her enduring contributions to Notre Dame Cristo Rey and her unwavering support of student-athletes. In turn, Weymouth himself became the recipient of a surprise honor. Graciously accepting the recognition, he shared that none of his accomplishments would have been possible without the support of his wife, Joan, whose partnership and encouragement have been a constant throughout his years of service.

Teacher and Coach Tony Cardarelli was also honored for his dedication to NDCR students and athletics. Coaches were thanked for the countless hours they devote to mentoring, encouraging, and supporting student-athletes, while the evening also marked the beginning of a new tradition with the introduction of the NDCR Wall of Fame and the recognition of Sebastian Garcia '25 as its first student-athlete honoree.

Remarks from President Sister Maryalyce Gilfeather, SNDdeN, Ph.D., and Principal Mabel M. Dominguez '09 reflected on the important role athletics play in developing character, leadership, resilience, and teamwork—lessons that extend far beyond competition.

While the evening celebrated accomplishments and milestones, what stood out most was the heart in the room. The banquet was a reflection of the relationships, school pride, and shared experiences that make Panther athletics so special. It was a fitting tribute to a year of hard work and achievement, and a celebration of the students who proudly represent Notre Dame Cristo Rey!

Planned Giving and Tribute Gifts

Create a legacy that lasts for generations. A planned gift or a donation made in honor or memory of a loved one supports Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School’s mission to provide a faith-based, college preparatory education to deserving students of limited financial means.



Your generosity ensures that NDCR can continue transforming lives - helping students become the scholars, leaders, and people of faith our world needs.

To learn more about including NDCR in your estate plans or making a tribute gift, please contact our Advancement Office or visit our "Support Us " page.

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