Dear Donovan Families, 

As we enter November, a month centered on gratitude, I find myself reflecting on a message I have shared with families throughout the opening months of school: every child is created in the image and likeness of God. This belief is foundational to Catholic education and reminds us that each student possesses inherent dignity, unique gifts, and a God-given purpose.

In his reflection, “Come, follow me”: The mission of our Catholic schools, Bishop O'Connell reminds us, “Your education is not simply about what you will someday accomplish. It is about the person God is calling you to be now!” His words are particularly meaningful as our seniors navigate college applications and prepare for their next chapter. While these accomplishments and milestones matter, they do not define a student's worth. Throughout our admissions season, we have shared that a Donovan Catholic education is an investment in who our students will become, not simply what they will accomplish. Becoming does not begin after graduation; it happens each day through the choices our students make, the relationships they build, and the ways they live their faith.

Please click here to read Mrs. Gleinig's full November 2026 Communication

Donovan Catholic High School is excited to announce the appointment of Ryan Stefanik as the new Head Coach of the Boys Lacrosse Program, bringing a wealth of playing experience, coaching success, and a passion for developing student-athletes to the Griffin community.

Stefanik joins Donovan Catholic with an impressive background in lacrosse at both the high school and collegiate levels. A former Division I lacrosse player at Monmouth University, Stefanik also competed at St. Joseph's Regional High School and Cheshire Academy before beginning his coaching career.

His coaching experience includes serving as Head Coach at Lakeland High School, Assistant Coach at Toms River High School East, and Director of Lacrosse at Advanced Lacrosse. He currently serves as Head Coach of Team 91 NJ's 2030 team and was recognized as the 2026 NJ.com Cullen Division Coach of the Year.

As he steps into his new role, Stefanik is eager to build a competitive program rooted in hard work, pride, and a strong team culture.

"The opportunity to become head coach at Donovan Catholic was one I couldn't pass up," said Stefanik. "Every athlete and coach wants a place where they will compete with the best, and that's exactly what we will build here. For too long, South Jersey has been overlooked. That changes with the culture, fire, and pride we're building. Brick by brick, we will compete."

Stefanik's vision for the program emphasizes not only success on the field but also the development of a team culture that reflects the dedication, character, and competitive spirit of Donovan Catholic athletics.

With his experience and enthusiasm for the future of Griffin lacrosse, Stefanik looks forward to connecting with student-athletes, building relationships within the Donovan Catholic community, and continuing to elevate the Boys Lacrosse Program.

Donovan Catholic proudly welcomes Coach Stefanik to the Griffin family and looks forward to an exciting new chapter for Boys Lacrosse!

Go Griffins!

Donovan Catholic is proud to announce that its 2026 Exemplar yearbook, titled Capture the Moment, has received the prestigious First Place Gold Award from the Garden State Scholastic Press Association (GSSPA).

This recognition celebrates the hard work, creativity, and dedication of the 2026 Exemplar yearbook staff, whose efforts brought the memories, milestones, and special moments of the school year to life through their publication.

The award is a testament to the students' commitment to excellence in journalism, photography, design, and storytelling, as well as their ability to capture the spirit of the Donovan Catholic community.

Pictured proudly holding the award are Kemaya L. and AJ B., members of the 2026 Exemplar staff, surrounded by several members and editors of the 2027 yearbook team, who are continuing the tradition of student creativity and excellence.

Congratulations to the entire 2026 Exemplar Yearbook Staff on this outstanding achievement! Your dedication and talent continue to make Donovan Catholic proud.

You Make Donovan Proud!

Donovan Catholic Football improves to 8-1, maintaining its position as the No. 1 team in Ocean County.

The Donovan Catholic Griffins Football team has officially claimed the A-South Division Championship following an impressive 20-10 victory over Toms River North!

With the win, the Griffins improve to an outstanding 8-1 record for the 2026 season, continuing to establish themselves as a dominant force in Shore Conference football and maintaining their position as the No. 1 ranked football team in Ocean County.

The victory over Toms River North marks another significant milestone in what has already been a remarkable season for the Griffins. Through hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence, the team has demonstrated its strength on both sides of the ball throughout the fall.

This championship reflects the dedication of Donovan Catholic's student-athletes, coaching staff, and the entire football program. Their success continues to bring tremendous pride to the Donovan Catholic community.

As the Griffins look ahead to the remainder of the season, they carry with them the momentum of an A-South Championship and the support of the entire Griffin family.

Congratulations to our Griffins on this outstanding accomplishment! Griffin Pride is stronger than ever!

Donovan Catholic senior Gavin Oliver made school history on Tuesday, October 13, becoming the first Griffin to win the boys' race at the Ocean County Cross Country Championships.

The Ocean County Cross Country Championships have been held since 1980, but until this year, no Donovan Catholic runner had ever claimed the boys' individual title.

Oliver changed that with an outstanding performance at Ocean County Park, completing the 3.1-mile course in an impressive 15 minutes, 37 seconds and securing a decisive first-place finish.

The historic victory marks a major milestone for Donovan Catholic's cross country program and adds another impressive accomplishment to Oliver's senior season. Oliver's achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence, both as an individual athlete and as a representative of the Griffin community.

Congratulations to Gavin on this historic accomplishment! The entire Donovan Catholic community is proud to celebrate this incredible moment in Griffin athletics history.

Dear Donovan families,

I'm writing with some good news and a request. New Jersey has a rare opportunity, and we need our families' help to make the most of it.

Together with the Diocese of Trenton, the New Jersey Catholic Conference and the New Jersey Council for American Private Education, we've been preparing for more than a year for a new federal program called the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit. If New Jersey takes part, it could mean millions of dollars in potential scholarship support for New Jersey students, including many of the children and families in our own schools. But New Jersey only gets that chance if Governor Sherrill opts the state in before the end of this year.

That's where you come in. The governor represents every student in New Jersey, and our families are residents, taxpayers and voters. When she hears from us, she'll know how much this matters to the families we serve.

The short version:

• This is a new federal program that begins in 2027.
• New Jersey has to opt in for our students to benefit.
• If the state opts in, our school communities could benefit. If it doesn't, those dollars will go to students in other states.

What we're asking you to do (it takes about two minutes):

1. Contact Governor Sherrill. Choose whichever works best for you:
   • Quickest: Use the New Jersey Catholic Conference's action alert, which walks you through sending a message to the governor: https://njcatholic.org/faith-in-action?vvsrc=%2fCampaigns%2f139845%2fRespond
   • Most personal: Copy the letter below, add our school name and your town, and send it through the governor's contact form at https://www.nj.gov/governor/contact/. You can also mail it to Office of the Governor, PO Box 001, Trenton, NJ 08625.
   • If you have the time, we'd love for you to do both.
2. Share this email with family, friends and your parish community. The more voices she hears, the better.

Please act this week if you can. Every message helps show Governor Sherrill that Catholic school families want this opportunity.

Questions families often ask:

What is the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit?
It's a program Congress created in 2025, also called the Education Freedom Tax Credit. Starting in 2027, individuals can receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations to approved scholarship organizations (up to $3,400 for married couples who each give). Those organizations award scholarships to students for tuition, tutoring, books, special-needs services and other educational costs.

Does it cost New Jersey or taxpayers anything?
No. It doesn't draw on the state budget, local property taxes or the public school funding formula. It's funded by voluntary private donations, offset by the federal tax credit.

Is this a school voucher program that hurts public schools?
No. Scholarships go to students in both public and nonpublic schools, and public school students can use them for things like tutoring and special-needs services.

Is it only for wealthy families?
No. The NJCC notes that federal law limits scholarships to households earning no more than 300% of their area's median income, which keeps the focus on working- and middle-class families.

Do I need to do anything with my taxes right now?
No. Nothing changes for your family today. Our only goal right now is getting New Jersey to opt in. Understanding and using the credit will take time, and we'll have the support of the Diocese of Trenton every step of the way. I'll share more as soon as I know it.

Where can I learn more?

• New Jersey Catholic Conference: NJScholarshipCredit.org
• New Jersey Council for American Private Education: https://www.newjerseycape.org/eftc

Thank you for being part of our school family and for standing up for our students. We're grateful for you.

Mrs. Gleinig
Principal, Donovan Catholic High School

EMAIL 3: FROM PARENTS TO THE GOVERNOR

Letter to the governor (copy, personalize and send):

Subject: Please Opt New Jersey into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit

Dear Governor Sherrill,

My child(ren) attend Donovan Catholic High School, and our family is proud to call New Jersey home.

I am asking you to opt New Jersey into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit so that New Jersey students and families can benefit from this new federal opportunity. This program can benefit students in public schools and in non-public schools like ours. Students in ALL schools stand to gain. If New Jersey does not participate, our families could miss access to scholarship dollars that will instead benefit students in participating states.

Every parent should have the opportunity to choose the learning environment that best meets the needs of their child. Educational choice should not be available only to families who can easily afford it.

Please represent the educational needs of ALL New Jersey students by opting New Jersey into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit.

Thank you for supporting New Jersey students and families.

Sincerely,
[NAME]
Parent/Guardian at Donovan Catholic High School
Toms River, New Jersey

Donovan Catholic Girls Varsity Soccer has officially been named C South Champions, adding another major accomplishment to an undefeated season that is still going strong.

The Griffins have put together an impressive run on the field, with recent victories over Lakewood, Pinelands, New Egypt and Brick. Their continued success has been fueled by strong teamwork, determination and a commitment to competing together every time they take the field.

While the C South title is certainly worth celebrating, the Griffins aren’t finished yet. With more soccer still ahead this season, the team looks to carry its undefeated momentum into the next stretch of competition.

Congratulations to our student-athletes and coaches on earning the title of C South Champions and good luck as the season continues!

Go Griffins!

Click here to access the 26-27 State of the School

Dear Donovan Families,

As September comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on how quickly the opening weeks of school have passed. A teacher said something to me today that caused me to stop and reflect: sometimes God places us exactly where we are meant to be. It was a simple comment, but one that stayed with me throughout the day as I found meaning in all of the places I was led.

Proverbs reminds us, “The human heart plans the way, but the LORD directs the steps” (Proverbs 16:9). We spend so much time preparing for the year ahead, but often it is through the people we encounter, the unexpected moments, and the ordinary work of each day that we begin to see God's direction.

As we enter October and settle more fully into the school year, I am especially grateful for the people God has placed along our path: the students, families, faculty, and staff who together make up our Donovan Catholic community. I look forward to all that this year continues to hold for us.

Please click here to read the full October Principal Communication.

Kim Gleinig

Principal

Donovan Catholic High School

Donovan Catholic senior Gylian Hixenbaugh ’27 recently had the opportunity to represent the school community at the Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity Gala, where this year’s theme, “Doorways of Hope,” highlighted the organization’s mission of opening doors to safe, stable and affordable housing for local families.

The project began last spring, when area high schools were invited to create and design a door representing what a “doorway of hope” meant to their students. The completed doors were first presented during Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity’s spring walk in Seaside and were later placed on display at the organization’s gala.

Hixenbaugh created Donovan Catholic’s door with a message deeply rooted in faith, family and the idea of home.

“If you look closely at the door, you will see a little boy and his dog walking along a winding path,” Hixenbaugh wrote in her reflection. “Those belong to Jesus. Along their path are wooden signs marking the moments that shape us all: childhood, family, friendship, marriage, and everything in between.”

For Hixenbaugh, the door represents more than the physical entrance to a house. It symbolizes the security, opportunity and hope that come with having a place to call home.

“Affordable housing gives a family the stability they need so their own children can laugh, grow, build friendships, and experience the moments marked on that door without the weight of uncertainty holding them back,” she shared.

Hixenbaugh was invited to attend the gala and read her reflection aloud as guests viewed the doors created by local students.

The evening celebrated the work of Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity, which has served the Ocean County community since 1999. According to information shared at the gala, the organization has built 24 affordable homes and completed more than 540 critical home repairs while continuing its work to create affordable homeownership opportunities for local families.

For Donovan Catholic, Hixenbaugh’s participation also reflected the school’s commitment to encouraging students to connect their faith and education with service to others.

“When people ask me what ‘Let’s Open the Door’ means, I think about opportunity,” Hixenbaugh wrote. “The door I designed represents the journey of faith, but a physical front door to a home represents security, hope, and a fresh start.”

As she begins her senior year at Donovan Catholic, Hixenbaugh is also preparing for her own next doorway. Following graduation with the Class of 2027, she is committed to Dartmouth College, where she will continue her academic journey.

Her message at the gala offered a fitting connection between the pathways ahead of her and the opportunities Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity works to create for families throughout the community: every door has the potential to open toward something greater.

Donovan Catholic students and faculty joined members of the Ocean County community on Friday, September 11, for a solemn Day of Remembrance marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Hosted by Ocean County officials and Toms River Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, the ceremony was held at the September 11 Memorial in Downtown Toms River. The gathering brought together local officials, first responders, community members and students to remember the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001, including 19 individuals from Ocean County.

The ceremony also honored the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the first responders who answered the call that morning, including the 343 firefighters and paramedics, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers who lost their lives.

Twenty-five years later, the impact of September 11 continues to be felt throughout our nation and in communities close to home. The remembrance also recognized those who have died from illnesses related to September 11 and the members of the United States military who made the ultimate sacrifice during the War on Terror.

For Donovan Catholic students, attending the ceremony provided an important opportunity to experience history beyond the classroom and to stand alongside their community in remembrance, gratitude and prayer.

As our nation marks a quarter century since that September morning, the Donovan Catholic community remembers all those who were lost, honors the heroes who ran toward danger to help others and prays for the families and communities forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001.

We will never forget.

The holiday season is coming to Donovan Catholic! Donovan Catholic High School is excited to host its 2026 Christmas Market on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The Christmas Market will bring together local crafters, small businesses, vendors and service providers for a festive day of holiday shopping and community. Guests will have the opportunity to shop unique gifts, discover local businesses and enjoy the spirit of the Christmas season right here at Donovan Catholic.

Calling All Vendors!

The Donovan Catholic PTA is currently seeking crafters, vendors and service providers interested in participating in this year's market. Whether you create handmade goods, own a small business, offer specialty products or provide a local service, this is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your business to the Donovan Catholic community and beyond.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Donovan Catholic High School

Vendor spaces are limited, and interested participants are encouraged to register early. To register, click here to fill out our form.

Questions regarding vendor registration or the Christmas Market can be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

We look forward to welcoming our community to Donovan Catholic this December and kicking off the Christmas season together!

Donovan Catholic families,

Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year, we are excited to open our doors to you next week! If you missed my first virtual town hall, click here for the recording link. Please find some important information to adjust from summer break to the fall semester.

1. September Welcome Week Schedule:

a. Monday - August 31, 2026 - No school

b. Tuesday - September 1, 2026 - Faculty Only - No classes

c. Wednesday - September 2, 2026 - Freshman and Transfer Student Community Building Day - No classes grades 10, 11, and 12 - Lunch Available in Cafeteria

d. Thursday - September 3, 2026 - Early Dismissal - All classes - Fall/ Spring uniform

     i. Students receive IDs and schedules

     ii. Backpacks can go in previously assigned lockers

    iii. Lunch available in the cafeteria

e. Friday - September 4, 2026 - Early Dismissal - All classes - Fall/ Spring uniform

     i. Lunch available in the cafeteria

f. Monday - September 7, 2026 - School Closed

2. Drop off traffic reminders:

a. The crossing guard is located at the intersection of Terrace and Conifer for the safety of students.

b. The traffic pattern for the first day is attached, reach out if you have any questions.

c. Traffic congestion occurs around 7:40, plan your drop off accordingly.  

3. Virtual Town Hall

a. A reminder that we have a Virtual Town Hall this evening Tuesday August 25 at 6 PM if you are interested in stopping in, it will be recorded and shared. The purpose is for an introduction, updates, and to answer questions.

Question form.

Link for the meeting.

4. Summer work links if needed.

5. Final Reminders:

a. If you have any delays in the new uniform kilt, please reach out to Mrs. Gleinig.

b. Bring a charged laptop and charger. Technology will provide loaner laptops as needed, but it is important for students to bring their school provided charger daily.

c. If there is anything else you still have a question about, please reach out.

6. Attachments:

a. NEW: Audition Information Bye Bye Birdie!

b. Summer Griffin Gazette

c. Important Links & Registration Forms for Fall SAT Prep Course, Senior College Essay Workshop and more

As we begin this new year together, my hope is that our students continue to discover who they are, recognize the gifts they have been given, and grow into the people God is calling them to become. Our work extends beyond academic achievement; it is about the formation of the whole person that is rooted in faith, strengthened through community, and grounded in the dignity of every person created in the image of God. As you make your final preparations for school, keep in mind Colossians 3:12: “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” We will do the same.

May God bless our students, families, faculty, and staff as we begin the 2026–2027 school year. Take care, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back next week.

Mrs. Kimberly Gleinig ‘08

Principal

Donovan Catholic High School

Put on your saddle shoes and get ready to rock! Donovan Catholic High School Performing Arts is excited to announce its 2026 Fall Musical, Bye Bye Birdie.

Set in the exciting early days of rock and roll, Bye Bye Birdie follows the chaos that unfolds when teenage heartthrob Conrad Birdie is drafted into the U.S. Army. Before reporting for duty, Conrad is set to give one lucky fan a final goodbye kiss on national television—but his visit quickly turns an entire town upside down.

Filled with memorable music, comedy, dancing, teenage drama, and plenty of 1950s nostalgia, Bye Bye Birdie will showcase the talents of Donovan Catholic students both on stage and behind the scenes.

2026 Bye Bye Birdie Show Dates

• Thursday, November 19 at 7:00 PM
• Friday, November 20 at 7:00 PM
• Saturday, November 21 at 7:00 PM
• Sunday, November 22 at 1:30 PM

Tickets go on sale September 24 and will be available for purchase through the Donovan Catholic website.

CLICK HERE FOR BYE BYE BIRDIE TICKETS

Donovan Catholic Performing Arts invites students, families, alumni, and members of the community to join us for an unforgettable weekend of live theatre and support our talented student performers and production team.

Mark your calendars and get ready to say “Bye Bye Birdie” and hello to another exciting season of Donovan Catholic Performing Arts!

Donovan Catholic High School is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, creating a guaranteed admission pathway and significant scholarship opportunities for eligible Donovan Catholic students.

The new Guaranteed Admission Program provides Donovan Catholic students who meet the program’s academic requirements with a direct pathway to continue their education at Saint Joseph’s University, a nationally recognized Jesuit university rooted in academic excellence, service, leadership, and faith.

“This partnership represents exactly what we want for our students: meaningful opportunities that recognize their hard work at Donovan Catholic and open doors for their future,” said Donovan Catholic Director of School Counseling & Student Support, Mrs. Viscomi.  “We are incredibly proud to partner with Saint Joseph’s University and provide another valuable pathway for our students as they prepare for college and beyond.”

Guaranteed Admission and Scholarship Opportunities

Under the new partnership, Donovan Catholic students with a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher will be eligible for the Guaranteed Admission Program.

Eligible students will receive:

• A minimum $30,000 per year merit scholarship
• An additional $5,000 per year Excellence Award
• An automatic invitation to the Honors Program

These benefits provide qualifying Donovan Catholic students with the potential for substantial financial support while pursuing their undergraduate education at Saint Joseph’s University.

Expanding College Opportunities for Donovan Catholic Students

Located in Philadelphia, Saint Joseph’s University shares Donovan Catholic’s commitment to educating the whole person and preparing students to lead lives grounded in knowledge, faith, service, and purpose.

The partnership is part of Donovan Catholic’s continued commitment to expanding college and career opportunities for its students and helping families navigate the transition from high school to higher education.

From rigorous academics and college counseling to leadership, athletics, service, faith formation, and the arts, Donovan Catholic prepares students to succeed well beyond their four years on campus. The new Saint Joseph’s University Guaranteed Admission Program adds another valuable opportunity for students who demonstrate strong academic achievement throughout their Donovan Catholic experience.

For current and prospective families, the partnership is another example of the long-term value of a Donovan Catholic education providing students not only with a place to belong today, but with opportunities to take their next steps with confidence.

Learn More

Current Donovan Catholic students and families interested in learning more about eligibility for the Saint Joseph’s University Guaranteed Admission Program are encouraged to contact the Donovan Catholic School Counseling Department for additional information.

Prospective families interested in learning more about Donovan Catholic High School, our academic programs, college preparation, and admissions process are invited to explore our Admissions resources and discover what it means to be a Griffin.

If you're searching for the right high school for your child, there's no better way to experience the Donovan Catholic difference than by visiting our campus during our 2026 Fall Open House.

Open House Dates:

• Sunday, October 18, 2026 | 2:00–4:00 PM

• Monday, October 19, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM

As the only Catholic high school in Ocean County and proudly serving students throughout Ocean, Monmouth, and surrounding counties since 1962, Donovan Catholic is more than a school, it's a community where students are challenged academically, strengthened spiritually, and inspired to become compassionate leaders.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR OPEN HOUSE

You Belong Here

Every student has a unique story, different talents, and dreams waiting to unfold. At Donovan Catholic, we believe there is a place here for everyone...a place to learn, grow, lead, serve, and discover the person God created you to be. Whether you're an aspiring scientist, athlete, artist, musician, performer, entrepreneur, or you're still discovering your passions, you'll find opportunities to thrive in an environment that celebrates each student's individual gifts.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll experience a welcoming community built on faith, academic excellence, service, and lifelong friendships.

Experience the Donovan Catholic Difference

During our Fall Open House, prospective students and their families will have the opportunity to:

• Tour our expansive campus and explore our Finance Lab Powered by Bloomberg, Athletic Training Facility, GEPP Gym, Robotics Lab, our new Media Center and so much more.

• Meet our dedicated faculty, staff, and administrators

• Connect with current students

• Learn about our rigorous academic programs, AP courses and dual-enrollment opportunities

• Explore championship athletics, performing arts, clubs, and extracurriculars

• Discover our faith-filled community and vibrant student life

• Learn more about the admissions process, scholarships, financial assistance, and tuition

Whether you're entering ninth grade, considering a transfer, or simply beginning your high school search, our Open House is the perfect opportunity to see what life is like as a Griffin.

A Tradition of Excellence Since 1962

For more than six decades, Donovan Catholic has prepared students not only for college, but for lives of purpose, leadership, and service. Our graduates leave with the confidence, character, and values needed to succeed wherever life leads them.

Families throughout Toms River, Brick, Point Pleasant, Jackson, Manchester, Lacey, Bayville, Barnegat, Manahawkin, Wall Township, Howell, Freehold, and communities across Ocean and Monmouth Counties choose Donovan Catholic High School because of our commitment to educating the whole person...mind, body, and spirit.

We Can't Wait to Welcome You

The best way to discover whether Donovan Catholic is the right fit for your family is to experience it for yourself. Join us on Sunday, October 18 or Monday, October 19 for our 2026 Fall Open House and see why so many students and families choose Donovan each year.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR OPEN HOUSE

As the 2025-2026 school year came to a close, what began as Donovan Catholic High School's annual End-of-the-Year Faculty & Staff BBQ turned into a heartfelt surprise retirement celebration honoring two extraordinary members of the Griffin family.

Faculty, staff, and administrators gathered to recognize the remarkable careers and lasting contributions of Ms. Christine Mooney and Mrs. Dawn Watson, whose combined 55 years of service have left an indelible mark on the Donovan Catholic community.

After 35 years of dedicated service, Ms. Christine Mooney is retiring from Donovan Catholic. Throughout her career, she inspired generations of students as a French teacher, sharing her passion for language, culture, and learning. Beyond the classroom, Ms. Mooney served as yearbook advisor and embraced numerous leadership roles that helped shape the student experience. Her commitment to education, mentorship, and the Griffin spirit has touched countless lives and helped strengthen the Donovan Catholic community for more than three decades.

Mrs. Dawn Watson is retiring after 20 years of dedicated service as an Administrative Assistant in the school's main office. Throughout her time at Donovan Catholic, she has been a welcoming and familiar presence for students, families, faculty, staff, and visitors alike. Known for her kindness, professionalism, and unwavering support, Mrs. Watson played an essential role in the daily life of the school and helped create the warm, family atmosphere that defines the Donovan Catholic experience.

During the celebration, colleagues reflected on the many ways both women have contributed to the school's mission and legacy. Their years of dedication, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact that will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Donovan Catholic extends its deepest gratitude to Ms. Mooney and Mrs. Watson for their commitment to the Griffin community and wishes them both happiness, health, and fulfillment in their retirement.

Congratulations, Christine and Dawn, on your well-earned retirement. Once a Griffin, always a Griffin!

At Donovan Catholic, our students pursue their passions both inside and outside the classroom and junior Caylee Navas is proving that hard work and determination can take you around the world.

Just a few weeks ago, Navas traveled to Warsaw, Poland, where she represented Team USA at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Bench Press World Championships. Competing in the 57kg Sub-Junior Equipped Bench Press Division, Navas earned a bronze medal, finishing as the third-ranked athlete in the world in her division.

The achievement came after years of dedication to the sport and a successful qualification process through national-level competition. While athletes from Finland and Ukraine captured the gold and silver medals, Navas proudly stood on the podium representing the United States on one of powerlifting's biggest stages.

For Navas, however, the experience was about much more than winning a medal. She says, "Even if I didn't place, I was still so grateful for the opportunity to be there and represent Team USA.”

The trip was especially memorable because it marked another major milestone as it was Caylee’s first time traveling outside of the United States.

Navas credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her father, who has coached and trained her throughout her powerlifting journey. She also expressed deep gratitude for the team at Atlantic City Barbell, whose guidance, mentorship, and encouragement have played a significant role in her development as an athlete. Together, she says, they have helped her tremendously in reaching the world stage.

Balancing academics with the demands of training and competition requires discipline, commitment, and perseverance, qualities that Navas demonstrates every day.

Now ranked among the best young powerlifters in the world, she is already looking ahead to her next challenge. After spending the summer training, Navas plans to return to competition this fall as she continues pursuing her goals in the sport.

Looking even further into the future, Navas hopes to turn her passion into a career as a Strength and Conditioning Coach, helping athletes reach their full potential through training, mentorship, and hard work.

Whether stepping onto an international stage for the first time or traveling across the world to represent her country, Navas approaches each experience with gratitude and determination, a mindset that has already taken her farther than most could imagine.

Congratulations to Caylee on this incredible accomplishment. The entire Donovan Catholic community is proud to celebrate her success and looks forward to following her journey in the years ahead.

Dear Donovan Catholic Friends and Family,

It has truly been a wonderful year under the collaborative and tireless work of Mr. Darryl Heale who graciously accepted the offer to step into the role of Interim Principal for the 2025-2026 school year. Immediately, Mr. Heale along with Vice Principal Mrs. Gleinig and other key individuals in our Donovan Catholic community came together in a transparent, beautiful way, setting a positive tone and boosting morale on campus among all staff and students.

I am writing to you today to share the news that Mr. Heale, who was originally hired a year and a half ago as Vice Principal, will be returning to that position for the 2026-2027 school year, as the new Principal of Donovan Catholic High School steps into the role. I am so grateful to Mr. Heale for his leadership and graciously serving our Donovan community.

After a thoughtful and prayerful process, and after receiving counsel from the Diocese of Trenton’s Office of Catholic Schools, I am pleased to share that Mrs. Kimberly Gleinig will be the new Principal of Donovan Catholic High School. Mrs. Gleinig's connection to Donovan spans a lifetime. From her days as a student at St. Joseph Grade School and a graduate of Monsignor Donovan High School's Class of 2008, to her service as a teacher, Student Life Coordinator, Vice Principal, and now Principal, Donovan has always been her home. Mrs. Gleinig represents the perfect blend of Griffin tradition and innovation. As an alumna and dedicated leader, she understands what makes Donovan such a special place while bringing the vision and commitment needed to lead our school into the future. She believes deeply in our mission and in the transformative power of Catholic education.

I am confident that under her leadership, Donovan Catholic will continue to thrive as Ocean County's premier Catholic high school — rich in tradition, committed to modern excellence and grounded in faith. Please join me in congratulating Mrs. Kimberly Gleinig as the next Principal of Donovan Catholic High School! May God continue to bless Donovan Catholic, our students, our families, and our future.

Sincerely,

Very Reverend G Scott Shaffer V.F.

Director of Donovan Catholic High School

The Donovan Catholic Softball program continues to shine as several players and coaches earned prestigious Shore Conference Coaches Association All Division Freedom recognitions following an outstanding season.

Leading the way was Head Coach Debbie Schwartz, who was named the Shore Conference Coaches Association All Division Freedom Coach of the Year in recognition of her leadership, dedication, and the continued success of the Griffins softball program.

Gylian Hixenbaugh earned Pitcher of the Year honors after an impressive season in the circle, showcasing dominance, consistency, and determination throughout the year.

Bella Maria was recognized as Player of the Year and also received Outfielders Recognition for her exceptional all-around performance and leadership on the field.

Additional honors included:

• Caroline Kopp – Utility Player Recognition
• Isabella Cino – Infielders Recognition
• Jaelynn Nunez – Catchers Recognition
• Juliana Vignets – Outfielders Recognition

These accomplishments are a reflection of the hard work, commitment, and team-first mentality displayed by Donovan Catholic Softball all season long. The Griffins continue to set the standard both on and off the field, representing Donovan Catholic with pride, determination, and excellence.

Congratulations to Coach Schwartz and all of our student-athletes on these well-deserved honors. Griffin Nation is proud of you!