Category: School News

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.

Newman Night 2026: La Dolce Vita

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.

From September 11–12, 2025, Cardinal Newman High School launched a new tradition with its first mandatory overnight retreat for the junior class. Held at the Amoris Christi Campus in Delray Beach, the retreat welcomed approximately 40 students and marked the beginning of a series of four scheduled retreats this year. Each junior will select one date—September, October, February, or April—to attend, ensuring that every member of the Class of 2027 shares this meaningful experience.

President Charles Stembler emphasized the importance of introducing an overnight retreat as part of the Cardinal Newman Catholic education experience. “I believe that retreat experiences are transformational, both in the lives of young people and for the school community,” said Mr. Stembler. “Retreats allow students to engage in reflection, prayer, and community – ultimately allowing them the opportunity to reflect on their relationship with God and deepen their spiritual journey.” 

During the two-day retreat, students participated in Mass, Adoration, small group discussions, games, and faith-centered activities that encouraged deeper exploration of their relationship with God and with one another. Mrs. Cook, Campus Ministry Director, reflected, “I enjoyed seeing the students coming together as a unit—getting to know each other and bonding through the experience of the retreat activities was truly special.”

Students also shared what stood out most for them. Favorites included “game night,” “church activities,” “Mass and Adoration,” and simply “getting closer as a class.” These reflections highlight how the retreat not only strengthened their faith but also fostered unity and lasting memories among classmates.

Catholic high school retreats provide powerful opportunities for spiritual growth, community building, and personal development. By stepping away from distractions, students are able to strengthen their relationship with God, develop empathy and confidence, and deepen their connection to Cardinal Newman’s Catholic identity and values.

The inaugural Amoris Christi Junior Retreat was a memorable start to this new tradition—one that will shape the Class of 2027’s journey in faith, friendship, and self-discovery.

On September 11, 2025, the inaugural class of the revamped M. Scott Powell Scholars Program embarked on their first educational field trip to Lion Country Safari, marking the beginning of a year filled with enrichment, exploration, and growth.

Dr. Anup Sinha, Director of the program, explained that while the day was designed to be educational, it also gave the 21 freshmen an important opportunity to bond outside of the classroom. “We encouraged the students to follow their own lines of interest as they explored the Adventure Park,” he shared. “There was considerable team building and camaraderie as they got to know each other. All of the kids were excited to see the wild jungle animals so close to our bus, and I believe they will take away pleasant memories as well as educational value. We anticipate these freshmen being together for all four years and sharing many more valuable experiences.”

The M. Scott Powell Scholars Program is Cardinal Newman’s prestigious academic enrichment initiative for the school’s highest-achieving students. The program emphasizes academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, leadership, character development, and service to others, creating lifelong learners who are prepared to make a positive impact.

Throughout the year, scholars will participate in eight monthly field trips that highlight culture, science, and the arts. In October, students will travel to Miami to visit the Frost Science Museum and the Pérez Art Museum, followed by a visit to The Society of the Four Arts in December. Additional trips will be announced as the program continues.

Beyond these excursions, scholars are required to keep journals to reflect on each experience. By junior year, the program evolves into a Capstone project, where students will complete research papers and present their findings.

This first trip set the tone for what promises to be a transformative journey—one that blends learning with discovery and builds friendships that will last well beyond high school.

On Wednesday, August 27, the Cardinal Newman community gathered at the Mary Immaculate Reception Hall for the first Gala Committee Meeting of Newman Night 2026. Guests enjoyed a Buongiorno Breakfast with cappuccinos and pastries, a delicious introduction to this year’s theme: La Dolce Vita—the Sweet Life.

President Charles Stembler opened the morning in prayer before Gala Co-Chairs unveiled the theme and shared a calendar of pre-gala festivities. Committee members connected over Italian music and tables decorated with vintage travel posters, embracing the charm and spirit of La Dolce Vita.

This year’s Co-Chairs are Jennifer Hendrix, Monique Javarone, Mary Cullen Lombardi, Emanuela Marcello, and Laura Smeenge, with Rocco and Jennifer Marcello serving as Honorary Chairs. Together, they will lead Cardinal Newman’s largest fundraising event—Newman Night 2026, celebrating the school’s 65th anniversary on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Kravis Center. Proceeds will support Cardinal Newman’s mission of faith, scholarship, and service.

Co-Chair Emanuela Marcello shared the inspiration behind the theme:

“Dolce Vita means the Sweet Life—embracing beauty and simplicity, cherishing family and friends, and savoring the small moments of life. For us, La Dolce Vita reflects our journey as friends and moms, and it is also the perfect theme to honor the Cardinal Newman community, which is rooted in faith, family, and friendships.”

Save the Dates – Gala Festivities

Save the Dates – Gala Festivities

Sept. 24 | 6:00 pm | Café L’Europe – A Toast to the Dolce Crew (invitation-only for committee members)

Oct. 1 | 8:00 am | Palm Beach – 2nd Annual Shop It Like It’s Hot Trolley Day

Nov. 13 | 6:00 pm | Marcello Residence – A Sweet Beginning Underwriting Celebration

Dec. 3 | 5:00 pm | Tide & Table – Christmas Sip & Shop

Jan. 15 | 11:00 am | Location TBD – Ciao Bella Luncheon

Feb. 19 | 5:00 pm | Joseph’s Classic Market – Salute! Wine Tasting

Mar. 7 | 6:00 pm | Kravis Center – Newman Night 2026: La Dolce Vita

Everyone is invited to join the celebration—whether attending, volunteering, or sponsoring—there are countless ways to be part of this La Dolce Vita journey. For more information, click here or email Mary.Martens@cardinalnewman.com.

FIRST GALA COMMITTEE MEETING

Cardinal Newman High School (CNHS) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Anup Sinha as Director of the M. Scott Powell Scholars Program, a prestigious academic enrichment opportunity for the school’s highest-achieving students. Located in West Palm Beach, CNHS has been providing a college preparatory Catholic education for over 65 years and is dedicated to developing students in mind, body, and spirit.

Dr. Sinha, a member of the Cardinal Newman faculty since 2012, brings a unique background to the role. He holds degrees from Emory University and Wayne State University. Before teaching, he trained as a physician and worked as a professional baseball scout. At CNHS, he teaches chemistry and serves as the moderator of both the National Honor Society and the Honor Council.

Named in honor of longtime educator M. Scott Powell, the Scholars Program challenges top students through monthly field experiences, peer discussions, and a junior/senior-year Capstone research project.

“The Powell Scholars Program is about broadening horizons and inspiring a lifelong pursuit of knowledge,” said Dr. Sinha. “I’m honored to carry on Mr. Powell’s legacy by guiding our brightest minds toward discovery, service, and purpose.”

“We are excited to have Dr. Sinha lead this important program,” said Charles Stembler, President of Cardinal Newman High School. “Cardinal Newman is a place where students are known, challenged, and supported. The Powell Scholars Program brings that to life—it reflects what we’re all about: mentorship, faith, curiosity, and serving others, all while helping students grow into the best version of themselves.”

On May 2, 2025, Cardinal Newman’s Fine Arts Department presented Journey the Night Away at the Duncan Theatre at Palm Beach State College, showcasing the exceptional talent of over 100 students in grades 9–12. The concert featured performances by the Beginning Concert Percussion Ensemble, Chorus I, Women’s Chorus, Honors Chorus, Vocal Soloists, and the Concert Wind Ensemble.

The evening served not only as a performance but also as a celebration of student achievement, musical growth, and community. Special senior ceremonies honored the graduating Class of 2025, and the concert highlighted both group and individual accomplishments from throughout the year.

Concert Highlights

Ensemble performances under the direction of Chorus/Music Director Roberta Rehner included Carry the Light, For Good from Wicked, and Another Day of Sun.

Stunning vocal solos were performed by Gabriella Salandy, Charlie Gusmano, Sophia Perez, Lily Monteiro, and a duet by Elias and John Azzi.

The Concert Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Band Director David Bayardelle and Percussion Director Michael Rivero, performed selections including Pirates of the Caribbean, El Camino Real, You’ll Never Walk Alone from Carousel, and The Fairest of the Fair.

Other News

Several band students earned Superior ratings at District Solo Evaluations and State competitions:

Snare Drum: James Wandtke – Superior (District), Excellent (State)

Alto Sax: Agatha Isaac, Isabella Anderson, Luke Dabu, Emma Pientka, Sophia Correa

Trombone: Luis Sardina, Isabelle Beausejour

Clarinet: Olivia Nocera

Flute: Cybella Mir

Tenor Sax: Nicholas Ramos

Percussion: Matthew Dabu, David Morales-Morales

Beyond the Stage

This year, the Fine Arts Department created unforgettable experiences for students:

In February, the Band, Chorus, Art Departments, and Spirit Dance Team participated in Disney Imagination Campus at Walt Disney World. Chorus students recorded a soundtrack to Disney’s Frozen, while band members and dancers marched down Main Street, USA.

Art Club students, led by Mrs. Haley, also joined in this immersive arts education experience.

Grease, Halftime Shows, and More

Congratulations to following Choral students who starred in the musical theater production of GREASE in April: Charlie Gusmano (Danny), Sophia Perez (Sandy), Lily Monteiro (Jan), Riley Gorman (Frenchy), Tessa O’Sullivan (Rizzo), Elizabeth Allaga (Mrs. Lynch), Elias Azzi (Johnny Casino), Ella Goodrich (Sonny), Victoria Miquel (Eugene), Valentina Sharoubim (Cha-Cha), Lyla Perry and Gabi Salandy (ensemble). Thank you to Ms. Rehner who served as the Vocal Director/Rehearsal Pianist for the production.

The CN Band performed at the Miami Heat Halftime Show, home basketball games, and lacrosse games.

Other Performances

The Chorus/Mass Ensemble, directed by Ms. Rehner, perform at the Baccalaureate Mass on May 9 at Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola.

The CN Band directed by Mr Bayardelle, along with senior vocalists Sophia Perez, Lily Monteiro, and Charlie Gusmano (coached by Ms. Rehner) will perform the National Anthem at Graduation on May 12 at the Kravis Center.

Underclassmen chorus members will sing at the May Crowning Mass on May 15.

Performances at Rosarian Academy’s Pep Rally and Freshman Orientation.

From classroom to concert hall, Disney to Main Street, and stage to stadium, the Cardinal Newman Fine Arts Department continues to inspire students to grow as performers, musicians, and leaders.

Bravo to all our talented Crusaders—what a year!

Photo Credit: Jodi Mennes

At Cardinal Newman High School (CNHS), our mission goes beyond preparing students for graduation—we prepare them for life. This spring, we proudly celebrate the Class of 2025 as they take bold steps toward their futures, earning acceptances to an extraordinary range of institutions across the country and around the world.

“We are committed to providing individual college direction so every student finds their ‘best fit, ‘” said CNHS President Charles Stembler. At Cardinal Newman, we provide an academic experience that prepares students to attend the top universities in the country. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!”

“I am incredibly proud of each and every student,” said CNHS College Counselor Candace Caterina. “For some, this moment marks the continuation of a family tradition. For others, it’s the first time anyone in their family has gone to college. Every path is different, and every acceptance is a milestone worth celebrating. The ultimate goal is to learn the skills to make the world a better place. We are so very proud of our Class of 2025 and cannot wait to see how they make a positive impact.”

A Diverse and Impressive List of Acceptances

The Class of 2025 earned spots at an inspiring range of colleges and universities—from Ivy League institutions such as Harvard University, to U.S. Military Academies including the Air Force Academy, Naval Academy, and West Point. Students also received acceptances to highly selective schools like Boston College, Northeastern University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Notre Dame, Villanova University, and Wake Forest University, showcasing their academic strength and leadership.

Others were accepted to top-performing SEC schools like the Auburn University, University of Georgia, and Louisiana State University, while may pursue their passions at nationally recognized arts institutions, including the Ringling College of Art and Design, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy.

Closer to home, Crusaders were admitted to Florida’s leading public and private universities—including the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, and University of Central Florida.

Every member of the Class of 2025 was accepted to college, continuing Cardinal Newman’s proud tradition of 100% college acceptance.

Personalized Guidance for Every Path

At Cardinal Newman, the journey to college is a guided and intentional one. Through one-on-one counseling, college workshops, financial aid planning, and on-campus college fairs and visits from more than 100 institutions, students receive the support and confidence they need to find the right fit.

Whether pursuing STEM, the arts, military service, or pre-professional programs, our students are encouraged to embrace their individual paths—and to dream big.

At Cardinal Newman, we are honored to be “Building Life’s Champions”—and this class is proof of that mission in action.

Cardinal Newman High School
Class of 2025 College Acceptances