Schools

After a grueling one and a half hours and 200 words, the 2025 archdiocesan schools spelling bee ended with an unusual twist: the contest ran out of prepared words.

With Dr. Donna Hargen’s strong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it seemed appropriate for a farewell Mass and dinner for the retiring schools superintendent to be held May 13, the feast of Our Lady of Fatima.

For two Archdiocese of Baltimore Distinctive Scholars, their alma maters were more than just a chapter in their past – they became the foundation of their future. 

As the first Knott Secondary Scholarship recipient from Western Maryland, Joseph Khachan fits the foundation’s mold nearly perfectly – pairing academic success with community involvement. 

The Archdiocese of Baltimore honored the academic excellence of three seniors from each of the 17 Catholic Catholic high schools within the Archdiocese of Baltimore during the 33rd annual Distinctive Scholars Convocation, held April 10 at The Catholic High School of Baltimore.

At 28 years old, Lia Paolucci has carved out a notable career as a detachment commander and helicopter pilot in the Maryland Army National Guard.