ANAHEIM, CALIF. (September 11, 2009) St. Catherine’s Military Academy celebrated its annual Installation Mass on Friday, September 11, 2009. The ceremony recognized those cadets who will fill leadership roles in the school’s military program throughout the 2009-2010 school year. During the Mass, students, mostly seventh and eighth graders, officially accepted the responsibility of being leaders in front of their peers, teachers, and parents.
“The Installation Mass is an important event because it allows new cadet leaders to pledge their loyalty and service to the cadet corps- their fellow students- by taking a longstanding oath,” said Colonel Barry Bizzell, St. Catherine’s commandant. “The student leadership role is a serious responsibility so it is important that cadets take the oath in front of faculty, parents, and students.”
Cadets being recognized as leadership officers for the 2009-2010 school year are: Roberto Orozco, Ryan Bermudez, Chasen Ott, Joseph McNeil, Gregory Minder, Alexander Godoy, Joseph Synowsky, Justin Wang, Aiden Drew, Brandon Ani, Adrian Bours, Anthony Barajas, Peter Vu, Ryan Salsberry, Robert Baluja, Thibaut Pasquini, Mathais Pasquini, Paul Vu, Richard Gilliland, Joseph Schoolcraft, Miguel Perez, Joel Amend, Trevor Griego, Andre Hernandez, Austin Vega, and John Felicione.
St. Catherine’s has a unique military program, well-known for teaching self-discipline, respect, and leadership to its students. Cadets in grades three and above participate in daily marching and drill exercises. They also earn medals and ribbons for good behavior and move through ranks that simulate military roles. Participation in the military program teaches cadets important live skills, such as overcoming obstacles and challenges, planning, following directions, working on a team, and leading others. The military department is led by Colonel Barry Bizzell, U.S. Marine Corps (retired), and Captain Angel Ramos, U.S. Army.
St. Catherine’s Military Academy, founded in 1889 by the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose, is a Catholic elementary school with a military tradition for boys in kindergarten to eighth grade. The key components of a St. Catherine’s education are challenging academics designed to meet the specific learning needs of boys and young men; spiritual development under the nurturing care of the Dominican Sisters; and a structured military program that builds confidence and develops leadership skills. The school offers both day and boarding opportunities.