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November 22, 2022Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School celebrated the publication of its annual magazine, “Toward the Top,” with a reception on Nov. 10 at the Waterford hotel in Oklahoma City. The reception honored this year’s featured alumni, Judy Love, class of 1955, Greg Love, class of 1980 and David Love, class of 2013.
“Toward the Top” is produced in-house by Bishop McGuinness and features photographs and articles by students. The magazine has been published annually since 2015. Mary Joyce, director of advancement, stated that approximately 11,000 copies of “Toward the Top” will be sent to alumni, families of currently enrolled students and friends of Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School.
“It’s a great way for the proud Irish community to stay connected and celebrate our wonderful achievements,” said Joyce.
“Toward the Top” highlights the achievements of Bishop McGuinness alumni, students and faculty from the 2021-2022 school year. Along with the three generations of Loves, theology teacher Mike Chavez was featured for his more than 20 years of service to the school. The magazine also highlighted coach and teacher Trevor Swink for his accomplishments at Bishop McGuinness and as a professional disc golf player.
“There are lots of amazing people in the magazine, so I feel blessed and appreciated,” Swink said.
Other members of the Bishop McGuinness family featured in “Toward the Top” were recent retirees Bob Epps for 17 years of service, Sandy Nedbalek for 30 years of service and Anne Hathcoat for 41 years of service. The magazine also includes class of 2022 student Lilianna Gavula’s “Senior Witness” faith testimony and the acceptance speech of the 2022 distinguished alumni of the year, Peter McConnell.
One of the most influential people to serve at Bishop McGuinness was Sister Stephanie Sanchez. Sister Stephanie was scheduled to be interviewed for a profile piece on her service to Bishop McGuinness; however, she passed away prior to the production of this year’s magazine. A previously-published story was included in the magazine.
At the reception, Bishop McGuinness President and Principal David Morton addressed the crowd, recalling stories from his early years at the school and remarking on the growth and progress that has occurred since 1950. This year, Bishop McGuinness welcomed a record number of 740 students.
As he reflected on the past, Morton reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the mission of Catholic schools to educate the whole person—spirit, mind and body. He expressed his pride in the student body for their accomplishments in academics, athletics and faith life. Many student service projects were featured, including a food drive that resulted in a donation of more than 100,000 pounds of food to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
Morton looked ahead to Bishop McGuinness’ upcoming 75th anniversary in 2025, announcing the launch of a $6 million capital campaign to address the growth and needs of the school. The funds will be utilized to add six classrooms, restrooms and office space. The campaign, which coincides with the 75th anniversary, is also being chaired by Judy Love, Greg Love and David Love.
While the launch of the capital campaign celebrates the growth and future of Bishop McGuinness, “Toward the Top” celebrates the people who have contributed to the success of the school along the way.
“It’s a wonderful way to honor God for all his blessings on Bishop McGuinness,” said Joyce. “We are wrapped in the favor of the Lord and we want to celebrate those blessings!”
For more information about “Toward the Top” magazine or to donate to the capital campaign, contact [email protected].
Sally Linhart is a freelance writer for the Sooner Catholic.
Photo: Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School alumni Judy Love, Class of ‘55; Greg Love, Class of ‘80; David Love, Class of ‘13; and David Morton, BMCHS president and principal. Photo provided.
