Alumni and friends of Gloucester Catholic High School will be honored on Sunday, November 24, during the annual Communion Breakfast.
The Alumni Association is pleased to announce the following award winners to be honored:
• John and Jackie O’Donnell Award (This award is given annually to a graduate of Gloucester Catholic who demonstrates generous service to the Gloucester Catholic school community)
Recipient: Casey Murphy, ‘99
Casey has spent the last 13 years educating, motivating, and helping students realize their potential both on and off the field of play. He has spent countless hours working with students often without pay or recognition. His commitment and contribution to the football program and the school as a whole are invaluable and he is responsible for so much more of that program’s success than he is accredited.
• Dr. Frank & Catherine Kelly Award (This award is given annually to a friend of GCHS who through their good work brings honor and recognition to the school)
Recipient: John Smithson ‘64
Mr. Smithson is a graduate of the class of 1964 and has distinguished himself in many areas. He was the first lay president of St. Joseph’s University and has been instrumental recently in assisting Gloucester Catholic in our strategic planning process. By his accomplishment he has been a tremendous example of a Gloucester Catholic graduate
• Thomas Stewart III Award (This is awarded to a Gloucester Catholic graduate that demonstrates selfless commitment and extraordinary service to the greater community.
Recipient: Scott Thomson, ‘90
The Chief of Police in Camden, Thomson’s career in law enforcement began in the summer of 1992 when he worked for the Avalon Police Department. After a brief stint with the Pennsauken Township Police Department, he joined the Camden Police Department as a patrol officer in 1994 and was quickly promoted to detective.
As a Camden officer, Thomson has distinguished himself in the law enforcement community. His extensive background includes serving as an expert witness in narcotics trafficking trials. His role included explaining the customs and procedures involved with drug trafficking, and informing the jury on different slang terminology used when referring to specific drugs. In 2000, he received the Camden County Narcotics Detective of the Year Award presented by the New Jersey statewide Narcotics Commanders Association.
• Gloucester Catholic Alumni Association Legacy Award (Given on a random basis to recognize someone who through their dedication and commitment to Gloucester Catholic through the years have left an indelible mark on the Gloucester Catholic Community)
Recipient: Mrs. Delores Budesa
Mrs. Budesa is a long-time resident of Gloucester City and strong supporter of Gloucester Catholic her entire life. Along with her late husband Sam, she saw seven kids graduate GCHS, with the first child, Elaine, entering the school in1965. She also had 17 grandchildren, including two current students, attend Gloucester Catholic along with one great-grandchild.
The Mass begins at 9:00 am followed by breakfast. Both events will be held in the Msgr. Lucitt Hall. Tickets are $12.00 and can be purchased from Anne Barron at (856) 456-4400.
