Dear Shepherds Friends,

We here in the northeast know this time of year is a season of transitions – a driving cold rain one day, 70 degrees and shorts the next, birds returning to wake us, but probably most noticeable are the brighter mornings and longer days…..

Translate that to our everyday life here at Shepherds and we have the close-out of a great winter sports season for our two schools (Kolbe Cathedral in State basketball finals, Notre Dame winning State Hockey Finals!), finally indoor mentor and student events, the return to touring colleges, and this year, say Hallelujah, a healthier environment and at least a mask-optional school life for our students!

What does Spring bring Shepherds?  The exciting news is that our seniors are receiving a great number of college admissions letters with financial packages coming in, our juniors are getting serious about their grades and their prep work for the college, freshmen and sophomore teams rebuilding variably dormant Covid relationships, and our mentors and staff are jumping in with more organized activities for students and mentors to enjoy time together.

Here in Bridgeport, my colleagues and I are very actively recruiting and screening new mentors and reviewing and interviewing student applications for the incoming Class of 2026.  With 15 students graduating and the strong momentum of our organization, we hope to bring in at least 20 students this fall. To do so, we continue to need your support financially and networking for mentors and donors to support this large class.  All ideas are welcomed!

Our deep appreciation as always goes to Shepherds mentors, parents, and our school partners for the guidance and support you provide our 61 Shepherds students. We look forward to seeing more of your smiles many times this spring!

Dan