Editor’s Note: This article was also published in the Benet Herald 2025 Graduation Edition.
Benet Academy had a proud and historic event to celebrate on Saturday, February 15, 2025, as it officially dedicated its Hall of Honor. Designed to recognize the outstanding accomplishments and long-lasting contributions of its graduates, staff, and friends, the Hall of Honor is a new tradition that salutes those whose lives embody the core values and spirit of the Benet family.
This award program recognizes excellence in four key categories of the school: Professional Distinction, Faith & Service, Fine Arts, and Athletics. The initial induction ceremony brought a vibrant attendance of alumni, faculty, students, and friends of the school. It was a night filled with pride and nostalgia as the Benet Academy community greeted each other to honor an outstanding class of men and women whose accomplishments have left an indelible mark on Benet Academy and in the worldwide community,
Professional Achievement Awards were awarded to Joan Biskupic “74, award-winning legal analyst and journalist; Judge Robert Conrad ’76, esteemed federal judge; and Colonel Sean Morrow ’96, award-winning military officer. Other awards in this category were given to John Lynch ’65, Joseph Nelligan ’82, and Robert Siefert ‘67, who were each recognized for his exceptional degree of success in business and the practice of law.
In the Faith & Service category, the awards recognized those who have committed themselves to acts of service, compassion, and spiritual leadership. *Abbot Hugh Anderson, O.S.B., Sr. Mary Bratsovsky, O.S.B., and *Fr. Ronald Rigovsky, O.S.B. were recognized for their long years of devotion and service to the Church. They were accompanied by David Grimes, *Sheila Jacklich, Ernie Stark, and Thomas White-men and women who tirelessly gave themselves to their communities and left lasting impacts on the lives of so many.
The Fine Arts award showcased the achievements of artists who have made a significant contribution to culture and creativity. Virtuoso violinist Jennifer Koh was recognized as having had an exceptional music career, and Andy Marchese, who composed the Benet Alma Mater and Fight Song, was honored for his creativity and influence in the performing arts. Not only have they broadened their areas of art, but they have also inspired the great potential of artistic opportunities.
The Athletics award honored individuals who excelled on the field but have continued making a difference through leadership and mentoring. *Ron Baumgartner, Denise Boylan Egner ’97, *Joe Fedinec, and Bill Geist each were honored for their part in Benet’s athletic legacy and for the influence they’ve made on student-athletes across generations.
The night was a tribute to the past and a vow to the future. While the honored alums represented different fields and backgrounds for their accomplishments, there was one unifying force that they shared: the lives they led, dedicated to service, integrity, and excellence. Their legacies are a source of pride for Benet, and an inspiration to students today, evidence of the enduring value of a Benet education.
Through the establishment of the Hall of Honor, Benet Academy affirms its commitment to celebrating individuals who exemplify the Benet way and to set an example for future generations to follow. The tradition will continue in the years to come as Benet students bloom into successful, well-rounded individuals and whose plaques will be placed next to other model Redwings in years to come.
*Indicates posthumous award
