Schools

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. 

Stephon Dingle, an anchor and reporter for WJZ-TV, was the keynote speaker for the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s 2025 Shine the Light Gala, which supports Catholic education. He said he was present not only as a guest but also as a “living testament to what a great Catholic education can be for you.” 

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.

T. J. O’Leary, a science teacher at St. Agnes, didn’t think twice before he jumped into Baltimore’s Inner Harbor to save a foundering father and son April 3.