In a celebration at the 20^th Annual Distinctive Scholars Convocation on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at Maryvalle Preparatory School in Brookland, MD, St. Michael the Archangel Alumni were recognized as Distinctive Scholars. They included Zachary Merkley, Samantha Moxey, Emma Dohmeier, and Thomas Gruebl who graduated St. Michael School in 2008.

Zachary Merkley representing Archbishop Curley High School was quoted saying, “Without the help of a Catholic high school, I would not have the opportunity to go to my choice of college and would definitely not be as well-rounded as I am today. Having gone to Catholic schools for my entire life, I can say with confidence that they are the best way for young men and women to receive an education.”

Samantha Moxey representing The Catholic High School of Baltimore was quoted saying, “I strongly believe that I am the strong, determined, focused person I am today because my teachers spent the extra time, not only teaching me the curriculum, but polishing that rock to find the diamond deep underneath.”

Emma Dohmeier representing The Catholic High School of Baltimore was quoted saying, “Without my Catholic education I do not know if I would be as successful in my academic life or as strong and knowledgeable about my faith as I am today. Because of my Catholic education I am ready to stop up and “Let My Light Shine” in the world.”

Thomas Gruebl representing Calvert Hall College High School was quoted saying, “Over the past four years, I have enjoyed being in an environment that has cultured my sense of faith and community. I have come to understand the importance of being strong in my faith and actively participating in my community. I have received an education that has more than prepared me for college; it has prepared me for life.”

The initiation of the Distinctive Scholars had, as its premise, the affirmation and celebration of the academic talents of students in our Catholic secondary schools of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Twenty years ago, the Department of Catholic Schools submitted to our secondary Catholic School principals the idea of having a yearly convocation whereby the top academic students would gather as one to receive their rightful recognition of their academic achievements accomplished over the four years of their high school careers. This academic convocation applauds and affirms what is accomplished at each individual Catholic school and demonstrates the unity and common mission of the pursuit of academic excellence within the Archdiocese of Baltimore.