By Valerie L. Moran - Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy HS
Photographer: COURTESY PHOTO
Archbishop Edward McCarthy High School students watch and listen as Pilar Blanco welcomes alumnus Mahogani Jones to the podium at the Excelsior Scholars Awards ceremony.
Photographer: COURTESY PHOTO
Michelle Maronhic, a junior at Archbishop Edward McCarthy High School, lights a candle during the inaugural Excelsior Scholars Awards.
SOUTHWEST RANCHES | Archbishop Edward A. McCarthy High School welcomed 153 students Feb. 2 into the school’s inaugural class of Excelsior Scholars. The program is aimed at students who want to participate in rigorous academic programs, such as honors, dual enrollment and AP courses.
“The Excelsior Scholars Program was established to enable highly motivated students who have a strong academic record and a great desire to challenge themselves,” said Carmen Udgalde, Excelsior Scholars advisor.
Archbishop McCarthy Principal Richard Jean agreed, saying: “The students push themselves and demonstrate a continued desire to be at the top of their academic game - they are the best of the best.”
Excelsior Scholars are closely monitored in their course selection, grades and extracurricular activities so that they can help build the best possible, well-rounded curriculum that will attract top universities. These students are typically the strongest candidates for the National Merit Scholarship Program, and receive admission to the most prestigious and competitive colleges and universities in the nation.
Photographer: COURTESY PHOTO
Guest speaker and Archbishop McCarthy High alumnus Mahogani Jones, director of New Business Development and Marketing Activations at RockOrange, spoke to students and their families at the Archbishop Edward McCarthy High School inaugural Excelsior Scholars Awards.
During the ceremony, freshmen and sophomores were awarded pins of excellence. Juniors were awarded ribbons and medals, and participated in a candle lighting ceremony. Seniors will be acknowledged during Senior Awards night with the Excelsior Cord to be worn at graduation.
An invitation into the McCarthy Excelsior Scholars program was also extended to freshman who performed at an exceptional level in grade school.
At the ceremony, guest speaker and Archbishop McCarthy alumnus Mahogani Jones, director of New Business Development and Marketing Activations at RockOrange, addressed the students, faculty and parents about the importance of not allowing themselves to be "boxed in.”
