Category: School News

Emmaus #80 welcomed 20 students to experience one of the school’s most transformative programs, deepening their faith and building lifelong connections within the Newman community. Rooted in the Gospel story of Emmaus, it invites students to journey inward, explore their relationship with God, and reflect on His presence in their lives.

The retreat took place from October 27–29 at the beautiful Our Lady of Florida Spiritual Center in North Palm Beach. Led by CNHS Campus Ministry, Janet Joyce-Cook and Carlos Poveda, the retreat provided time for prayer, personal reflection, meaningful connection with peers, and multiple interactive activities.

One student described her experience as an unexpected gift, saying, “Going on Emmaus was like receiving a beautifully wrapped present. At first, I didn’t know what was inside or what to expect, but when I finally opened it, I found something incredible.”

Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in activities designed to foster both introspection and fellowship. Shared meals, small-group discussions, and moments of prayer allowed students to deepen their understanding of faith and strengthen their sense of community.

The retreat concluded at Cardinal Newman with a Mass celebrated by Rev. Michael Cairnes, where students shared personal reflections and testimonials about what they learned. Parents and supporters were invited to join this special celebration to witness the faith and growth inspired by the retreat. Following Mass, students and guests gathered for lunch in Skaff Hall at Mary Immaculate.

Four talented Cardinal Newman Chorus students—Elias Azzi, Annabella Jones, Elizabeth McKinell, and Jenna Williams—represented our school at the nationwide Schmidt Vocal Competition, held on October 25, 2025 at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Recognized as the nation’s premier high school vocal event, the competition brought together 28 of Florida’s top young vocalists.

Under the direction of Ms. Rehner, the students learned and memorized three vocal pieces in less than a month and performed them live before an audience and panel of judges. After the first round, competitors attended Master Classes with renowned artists to receive professional feedback.

Junior Elias Azzi was selected as one of only three students invited to work one-on-one with a former opera star and professor during a live coaching session. The instructor praised his voice and helped him refine his performance of the Italian art song “Caro mio ben.” 

“It was thrilling to hear the growth and confidence in Elias’s voice,” said Ms. Rehner. “The competition was an incredible learning experience for all our students. “To sing well requires discipline, training, and skill—and events like this help them grow as artists and performers.”

The Schmidt Vocal Competition awards scholarships to top vocalists, with prizes ranging from $100 to $2,500. Ms. Rehner plans to take students again next fall and encourages any Crusaders interested in solo or choral singing to get involved now.

Students can join the Cardinal Newman Chorus or Mass Ensemble, which will perform throughout Palm Beach County during the Christmas season and compete this spring at Music USA at Universal Orlando.

Cardinal Newman High School is proud to celebrate the achievements of four students who have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.

Congratulations to:

• Mark Albury
• Max Mullen
• Brady Surovek
• Nicklaus Wallmeyer

These talented Crusaders demonstrated outstanding academic potential, placing among the top 50,000 students nationwide who entered the 2026 competition by taking the 2024 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

A spokesperson for the National Merit Scholarship Corporation said:

“Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success. These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation. We hope that this recognition will help broaden their educational opportunities and encourage them as they continue their pursuit of academic success.”

This recognition highlights the dedication and determination of our students as well as the support of their families, teachers, and the entire Newman community.

We are incredibly proud of Brady, Max, Mark, and Nicklaus for their achievement and for exemplifying the spirit of Building Life’s Champions.

Photo Left to Right: Brady Surovek, Max Mullen, Mark Albury, and Nicklaus Wallmeyer

Cardinal Newman High School has been named a Top Catholic School 2025 by Education Insider, a leading authority in education news and analysis. The honor, announced in the publication’s October issue, places Cardinal Newman among the nation’s top institutions recognized for excellence in faith-based education and student development.

Education Insider serves a global audience of school administrators, university leaders, policymakers, parents, and students. Its mission is to elevate the conversation around education and highlight schools that drive meaningful progress. Cardinal Newman was nominated for this recognition and then vetted through a rigorous review process— including an interview with President Charles Stembler.

In its profile of Cardinal Newman, the publication praised the school’s holistic approach:

“What stood out most was how Cardinal Newman High School leads with its identity as a Catholic institution and how that shapes the student experience. Placing spirit first, alongside mind and body, feels intentional and powerful. It’s not just about academics or extracurriculars; it’s about creating a space where students can explore their God-given talent, grow in confidence, and develop as individuals. That balance of faith, learning, and personal growth is rare.”

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from Education Insider,” said Charles Stembler, President of Cardinal Newman High School. “It affirms our belief that education is about more than just knowledge. It’s about nurturing the whole person—spiritually, academically, and personally—so that every student graduates ready to lead a life of purpose.”

Cardinal Newman High School’s recognition as Top Catholic School 2025 is a testament to the dedication of its faculty, staff, alumni, families, and supporters, who together foster a vibrant community of faith and learning.

Cardinal Newman High School is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Science National Honor Society (SNHS) chapter. This exciting addition provides new opportunities for students who excel in science to be recognized for their academic achievements while also deepening their engagement in research, leadership, and community outreach.

To qualify for induction, students met rigorous requirements including maintaining a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA overall and at least a 3.75 GPA in science courses, while consistently earning high marks in their science classes. Eligible students also had to be enrolled in Honors or AP-level science courses, commit to completing four years of science (with at least one additional elective during junior or senior year), and write a 250-word essay outlining their passion for science and the contributions they plan to bring to the society.

“The Science National Honor Society allows us to engage students who are passionate about science,” said Science Department Chair Christine Politz. “This program provides an opportunity for our science-minded students to participate in meaningful research projects, promote science within the Cardinal Newman community, and inspire curiosity in our feeder schools. It represents an exciting step forward in elevating our science program to the next level.”

With the induction of its first members, Cardinal Newman continues to expand its commitment to academic excellence and provide students with opportunities that nurture their intellectual growth and leadership potential.

Newman Night 2026: La Dolce Vita to Celebrate the School’s 65th Anniversary

More than 50 gala committee members gathered at the iconic Café L’Europe on September 24 to officially launch Cardinal Newman High School’s signature fundraiser, Newman Night 2026: La Dolce Vita. Taking place during the school’s milestone 65th anniversary year, the gala will feature Palm Beach residents Rocco and Jennifer Marcello as Honorary Chairs in recognition of their longstanding generosity and support of the Newman community.

Hosted and sponsored by the Marcello Family and Café L’Europe, the cocktail party buzzed with La Dolce Vitaspirit, complete with aperitivi,antipasti, and a Wine Pull that reflected an evening of the beauty of Italian culture. The festive event set the stage for a season of celebration culminatingin Newman Night 2026 on March 7 at the Kravis Center.

Gala Co-Chairs Jennifer Hendrix, Monique Javarone, Mary Cullen Lombardi, Emanuela Marcello, and Laura Smeengegraciouslygreeted guests and thanked the committee for their dedication.

“Cardinal Newman is more than a school—it’s a family. Hosting this celebration at Café L’Europe is the perfect way to bring our community together and set the stage for a truly spectacular year. La Dolce Vita reminds us to celebrate faith, family, and friendship—values that have guided Newman for 65 years,” said Gala Co-Chair and Café L’Europe Co-Owner, Emanuela Marcello.

Cardinal Newman President Charles Stembler added, “The dedication of our gala committee is extraordinary. Their leadership and enthusiasm ensure that Newman Night will not only be a memorable celebration but also a vital success for our school. As we honor 65 years of excellence, their efforts help strengthen the foundation for generations of Crusaders to come.”

The kick-off party was the first in a series of gatherings echoing theglamorous lifestyle reminiscent of Italy’s Dolce Vita. Each gathering will build excitement leading up to Newman Night 2026, a celebration poised to dazzle with elegance and style while raising critical funds to support Cardinal Newman High School.

Click here for more details!

For more information about Newman Night 2026, including tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Development Director Mary Martens atMary.Martens@cardinalnewman.comor (561) 683-6266.

Thank you to our incredible community for joining “Team Cardinal Newman” in the fight to cure childhood cancer during the annual St. Jude Walk/Run on September 20, 2025. Nearly 130 students came out in full force, helping raise an impressive $6,000+—surpassing our goal of $3,500!

The event kicked off in downtown West Palm Beach, where participants enjoyed a scenic walk or run along the Intracoastal on Flagler Drive. Our talented Isabella Espinal ’29 sang a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, and the spirited CNHS cheerleaders cheered on runners and walkers, inspiring everyone with their Crusader pride.

We are so grateful to our students, families, and supporters for their generosity and dedication. Your contributions are making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.

Together, Team Cardinal Newman is helping St. Jude continue its life-saving work—one step at a time.

Cardinal Newman is excited to announce their growing Admissions Team as they welcome families during this busy season. Mrs. Debbie Monteirois ’91, who has guided countless students and parents through the admissions process, is now joined by Ms. Allison Gurman, bringing added experience and energy to the department.

“I consider it an honor to continue working at a high-caliber school and look forward to helping families connect with the exceptional opportunities at Cardinal Newman,” said Ms. Gurman.

Allison comes to Newman after a distinguished career in admissions and enrollment management in New York City. She previously served at The Buckley School, a renowned all-boys independent school, and played a key role in launching Emet, a start-up independent school on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. With a strong commitment to student–school alignment, Allison is passionate about connecting families with the exceptional opportunities Cardinal Newman provides—from outstanding faculty and dedicated staff to a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs.

The Admissions Office is now welcoming applications for the 2026–27 school year. Applications are due by November 14, 2025, with tours in full swing and the Open House scheduled for Sunday, November 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Debbie and Allison are proud to provide a warm admissions experience and look forward to meeting future Crusader families. Come discover all that Newman has to offer.