Photo by Gibbs FrazeurAtlanta
Annual Education Banquet Honors Employees
By STEPHEN O'KANE, Staff Writer | Published February 18, 2010
On Saturday, Feb. 6, several hundred employees of Atlanta-area Catholic schools came together for a night of good company and great food, with a special focus on those who embody the ideals of a good Catholic school employee.
Now in its third year, the Archbishop’s Banquet for Catholic Education was held at the Marriott Perimeter Center, and representatives from the schools were present to honor the growing legacy of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Atlanta and recognize those who have aided in their positive growth.
More than 25 were recognized, including one representative from each of the 18 archdiocesan schools and six independent Catholic schools. The banquet also honored a principal of the year and a preschool director of the year.
Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory presents the award for principal of the year to Karen Vogtner, principal of the St. John the Evangelist School, Hapeville. Photo by Gibbs Frazeur
The evening began with Mass, which was followed by a social hour, and then moved into the program and dinner.
The growth of Catholic education in the archdiocese can be traced back to faculty and staff who tirelessly pursue a great education for their students. Currently, seven Catholic schools have been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. Catholic schools in North Georgia educate more than 11,000 students each year.
Proceeds from the banquet will be designated for tuition assistance at archdiocesan schools.
All of the honorees were chosen for being exemplary role models at their particular schools for students, teachers, staff and the Catholic school system in North Georgia. They were also recognized as people who have made an impact in their school community and in the archdiocese at large.