What’s recently happened?
Bishop Noll Institute (BNI) had a very busy January. BNI students and staff extended a big happy birthday to its oldest living alumna, Lillian Schreiner Radigan. Schreiner Radigan turned 102 years old on Jan. 14th. Schreiner Radigan graduated from Catholic Central High School, the previous name of Bishop Noll. Bishop Noll President Paul Mullaney had the opportunity to visit Schreiner Radigan to celebrate the day. Additionally, four students were chosen to participate in the opening scene of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
Bishop Noll girl's basketball took time to collect donations for the Cancer Resource Center along with Munster firefighters. The BNI band completed the first ever two day program in January as well. They worked really hard to bring music to the masses by way of livestream. The turnout was great and both programs were a success!
BNI students started February off strong with Catholic Schools Week. Sadly, it was cut short due to dangerous weather. The BNI students were able to make the days a blast. Monday was “bring anything but a backpack” day. The entire school participated in bringing all kinds of different items to carry their books. Students brought shopping carts, piñatas, and even laundry bins.
Tuesday was student appreciation day. Students were able to dress up as a country or country club. As a token of appreciation, students were also surprised with a movie in the afternoon. BNI students watched "Sing 2" and had snacks to end the day on a relaxing note.
Wednesday and Thursday were cut short due to the weather. Wednesday was initially scheduled to be the all school mass, and for the first time in two years, the school was going to have middle schoolers from different schools join in mass.
The BNI band was going to perform for the first time as well with their newly learned song, “Clouds that Sail in Heaven." Students ended the week showing their appreciation for teachers and staff members. BNI staff had a relaxing lunch period with many goodies to share. BNI students love and appreciate their teachers and were excited to express their gratitude!
What’s coming up?
The National Honor Society is hosting a Blood Drive on Feb. 8th. Many students and staff members have already signed up. It is the hope of the National Honor Society to have the opportunity to meet their donation goal to give back to a community in need. BNI students will also have the chance to celebrate Valentine's Day with buying a ring pop, a small bag of candy, a card, and a small bear for their friends and Valentines.
This Presidents’ Day will be an e-learning day for all students. On Feb. 25th, BNI is having “senior wear day.” This is a day where all seniors are able to wear what they want to show we appreciate them. Mar. 2nd is Ash Wednesday and activities for this day will be announced closer to the date. The BNI band is preparing for their spring musical as well, preparing to travel to Chicago to march in the St. Patrick’s Day parade. They have many surprises for that date and are looking forward to marching on such a popular holiday.
The Bishop Noll Centennial DVD is also officially available for purchase! The DVD is recorded by students, staff, alumni, and community members. It showcases how Bishop Noll has evolved over time and includes many interviews, pictures, and videos of the past 100 years. DVDs can be purchased in the main office or by visiting https://forevernollshop.givesmart.com.
Staff spotlight:
Mr. Driscoll joined the BNI faculty in 2019. He teaches sophomore theology. Prior to his arrival at Noll, Mr. Driscoll served for 22 years in Catholic youth and young adult ministries in Illinois, Florida, and Indiana, including a 16-year career as Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Gary. He holds a master's degree in pastoral studies from Catholic Theological Union and a bachelor's of science in mass media and broadcasting from Illinois State University.
Student spotlight:
Berenice Manuel is a sophomore at BNI. She’s involved in honors band, anime, and K-pop club. She is also a member of video game club. She has been in band since her freshman year of high school. She currently plays the flute and is a part of the color guard. She is excited for the upcoming St. Patrick's Day parade. She is most excited about being able to go to Chicago and witness the parade in person as these are new experiences for her.
“I am looking forward for this year because I am getting closer to senior year and being able to graduate. I look forward to graduating and reminiscing on many memories of my high school years,” said Manuel. Manuel enjoys attending BNI because she likes how calm of a school it is.
"You don’t have to worry much about any drama or problems because we really are like family here. We acknowledge everyone's differences and celebrate them for it," said Manuel.