Academic Excellence Takes Flight: Two Griffins Named National Merit Commended Students
We are proud to share that two of our seniors, Sophia P. and Julian M., have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Each year, more than 1.3 million juniors across the nation take the PSAT/NMSQT®. About 34,000 Commended Students throughout the nation are being recognized for their exceptional academic promise and two of our Griffins are included in that number. We are so proud!
Sophia and Julian's achievement showcases not only their dedication, but the spirit of excellence that shines throughout our Donovan community. Let’s cheer on these Griffins as they continue to soar toward bright and successful futures!
Donovan Catholic Welcomes a Brand-New Griffin Mascot
In 1967, Donovan Catholic’s Student Council sponsored a spirited contest to choose a school mascot. Students submitted a variety of ideas, and after careful consideration, the faculty narrowed the choices to five finalists. When it came time to vote, the Griffin secured the majority of the ballots...and a legend was born.
The Griffin, a mythical creature with the head, beak, and wings of an eagle and the body and legs of a lion, has represented Donovan Catholic for nearly six decades. Throughout history, the Griffin has symbolized vigilance, swiftness, loyalty, and strength. In the Christian tradition, it reflects Christ’s two-fold nature: divinity through the eagle, and humanity through the lion. For generations, this noble symbol has stood as a guardian of our school community, inspiring pride and tradition among our students, families, and alumni.
In 2025, the Donovan Catholic community once again rallied behind its beloved Griffin. Through our “SAVE THE GRIFFIN” campaign, faculty, students, staff, alumni, and friends of the school united in a heartfelt effort to raise funds for a brand-new mascot costume. Thanks to the overwhelming support of our community, the campaign was a resounding success.
Now, as we step into the 2025–2026 school year, we are proud to unveil our reimagined Griffin mascot. With renewed energy and spirit, the Griffin will take center stage at athletic games, school events, and community gatherings, ready to energize crowds, inspire school pride, and continue its role as a living symbol of Donovan Catholic’s legacy.
Our Griffin represents more than just a mascot. It embodies the enduring faith, loyalty, and strength of the Donovan Catholic family...past, present, and future. We are thrilled to welcome this new chapter in our history and look forward to seeing the Griffin soar for many years to come.
Donovan Students Recognized By College Board
Congratulations to...
Gabrielle Buzzerio Sophia Pasqua Julian Miles Panerio Nicolas Fiorella Robert Green Ashley Elias Flores Amelia Roche Christopher Strippoli Colin Johnson Riley O’Shea
The College Board’s National Recognition Program is designed to shine a light on high-achieving students nationwide across all backgrounds. By claiming a National Recognition Program award(s), eligible students have a tangible way to stand out to colleges and celebrate their academic achievements with their communities.
Congratulations, Griffins!
GriffinFest Returns August 14 - RSVP Today!
Join us in the quad for an unforgettable night of food, fun, and faith-filled community as we welcome Griffins of all kinds — alumni, friends, faculty, retired staff — to celebrate the spirit of Donovan! 
Delicious eats
Live music by Ballyhaunis Band
Beer Tent (Wristbands and ID check required for guests 21+)& More!
Each ticket is $25. Tickets will go up to $30 at the door and space is limited, so pre-registration is recommended! Link for tickets - Blackbaud
Donovan Graduate Earns Scouting America’s Highest Honor
NJSIAA NON-PUBLIC A SOUTH SECTIONAL CHAMPIONS
Alumni Career Panel
We were honored to welcome back five alumni for our inaugural Alumni Career Panel on April 11, 2025 — a meaningful event that brought inspiration, insight, and connection to our campus community.
Donovan Catholic Shines at Ocean County College’s Teen Arts Festival
Ava Buray received an “Outstanding Achievement” award in the Small Musical Theatre category for her exceptional performance. Ava’s talent, dedication, and stage presence wowed audiences and judges alike.
Sienna Kerr was honored with an “Outstanding Achievement” award in 2D Visual Art for her breathtaking oil painting titled “Simone.” Her piece demonstrated both technical skill and emotional depth, earning well-deserved recognition from the festival’s panel of art professionals.Softball Team Named #2 in Preseason rankings of the Shore's Top 20 teams
Donovan Catholic's softball team was recognized by the Asbury Park Press; taking the #2 spot in the APP Preseason rankings of the Shore's Top 20 teams 
“The Griffins are as talented as any team in the state.” – Asbury Park PressRobotics Team Wins Judges' Award in Recent Competition
Congratulations to the Robo Griffins on this win! 🎉🤖 When faced with a difficult challenge during Sunday’s competition, the team quickly came together to fix their robot in under ten minutes, never missing a single round. This tenacity won them the prestigious Judges’ Award in the competition.
"The Monitor" Features DCHS
Donovan Catholic High School – As Seen In Monitor Magazine!
Congratulations to James Harris
Congratulations to James Harris on being selected as a National Youth Correspondent for the 2025 Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University!
Congratulations, Josalyn!
Congratulations to junior Morgan Poskay!
Morgan Poskay breaks the school record in the 200 with a time of 26.56 at the Garden State Invitational on Friday night at Ocean Breeze in Staten Island.
Join Bishop O'Connell and Support the The Educational Choice for Children Act
Bishop David O’Connell, chair of the Committee on Catholic Education, represents and supports the federal school choice bill introduced on Capitol Hill.
EntreX Students Shine
Their ideas included:
Steplux, a fashion-forward activity tracker by Nicolette Gonzalez & Georgia Phillips
Smart Sprout, a plant-watering app by James Aldrich, Brooke Bowbliss & Justin Ramirez After impressive presentations and thoughtful Q&A sessions, Smart Sprout was named the winner of the competition! The Smart Sprout team will advance to the next round at Rutgers University at the end of this month! 
Congratulations to all of our EntreX students for their hard work, and especially to the Smart Sprout team for their outstanding achievement. History Made! Matthew Liotti Breaks School Record in the 500 Freestyle
The Donovan Catholic Boys Swim Team took on St. Rose High School in the first round of states on Wednesday, February 4, and it was a night to remember!
Iron Griffins Dominate at USPA Winter Showdown
The Iron Griffins brought their strength and spirit to the USPA Winter Showdown this past Saturday in Eatontown, NJ!
Griffins Make a Splash at the Golden Eagle Invite!
Donovan Catholic competed in the Golden Eagle Invite at the Ocean County YMCA on Friday, January 24,