Message from the Principal
Greetings Alumni,
While many associate summers with a break from school, that’s never quite the case at Saint Raphael Academy. The McHale Admin Building remains bustling year-round, and our maintenance team is always hard at work on various projects. This summer, we also had contractors on campus tackling three significant renovations, including a full demolition and rebuild of the chemistry lab, as well as much-needed upgrades to the theater dressing rooms. These improvements are only possible thanks to the continued generosity of our alumni and friends, so a heartfelt thank you once again!
For me, one of the highlights of the year is seeing the students return. There were two days of orientation in August, and as of September 2 our entire community was back, and things are in full swing. Classes are well underway, fall sports have begun competing, the fine arts department hosted a welcome night, and the Bishop joined us for our Opening of School Mass. On top of all that, more than 250 people joined us for Grandparents Mass and Breakfast; it was a joy to have them on campus and share with them what makes Saint Raphael Academy so special.
As we move through the year, please continue to keep our students and school community in your thoughts and prayers.
In peace,
Dan Richard
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Davian Cabral '26
What is your favorite part of being a student at Saints? My favorite part of being a student at Saints is experiencing how tight knit the community is. Whether it's at big events like Saints Olympics or just in the hallways, there's always a feeling that we're together. The teachers here genuinely care about helping you grow and being surrounded by that support pushes me to do my best.
What is your favorite class at Saints and why? My favorite class is AP English Language because it challenged me to think critically about what I'm reading and improve my writing capabilities. I enjoy being able to use the tools that I learned in class in all aspects of my life and seeing the benefit.
What activities are you involved in at school? I'm involved in many activities at Saints, I'm serving as class president, part of the FBLA chapter, and participating in the math team. As class president, I help organize school fundraisers, pep rallies, and community events. I've also been part of sports like soccer, volleyball, track, and baseball, which has let me meet new people and become more well-rounded.
Tell us something about your activities outside of school. Outside of Saints, I serve as the Rhode Island FBLA State Treasurer, where I help plan events for students across the state. I also work at Taco Bell where I do service and manage all customer service and the drive thru. I'm also working on a personal project to develop captioning glasses for the deaf and hard of hearing, trying to combine my interests in computer programming and helping others.
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Sam Calise '19
Tell us a little about what you’ve been up to since graduating?
Since graduating from SRA, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Cum Laude) from the University of Rhode Island. Throughout my college experience, I gained various experiences, including working as a teaching assistant for URI’s Department of Computer Science and Statistics and serving as a team leader for URI’s Information Technology Department. I also had the opportunity to intern at Citizens Bank and General Dynamics – Electric Boat, where I now work as a software engineer.
How did your time at SRA prepare you for college?
SRA prepared me exceptionally well for college academics. I found that the process and guidance in navigating which classes aligned with my interests, the rigorous academics that strengthened my foundation in STEM, and the continuous motivation from my teachers to push myself to my fullest potential were all contributing factors to my success. Their support not only prepared me for the challenges of higher education but also instilled in me a strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and a passion for continuous learning! I am grateful for the experiences and knowledge I gained at SRA because they have shaped my academic and professional journey to success.
Is there one teacher that left the greatest impression on you?
Mrs. Engel left a lasting impression on me during my time at SRA. She supported me throughout high school and helped me navigate the stressful college application process. She also created the Benilde Program to motivate and support students in achieving their goals at SRA and in higher education. I was part of the program for a few years, and her dedication inspired me to follow in her footsteps. Her influence played a key role in my decision to become a computer science teaching assistant at URI. In this role, I’ve supported 100, 200, and 400-level courses. Like Mrs. Engel, I strive to be a mentor and role model, guiding students as they learn and grow in computer science. Excelling in my studies while sharing knowledge reflects the mission that Mrs. Engel and the Benilde Program instilled in me: inspiring and uplifting future generations.
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Carolyn Machado '85
What did you do when you left Saints and what are you doing now?
Upon graduation in 1985, I attended Rhode Island College for one year before transferring to Boston University where I graduated with a degree from the College of Arts and Sciences specializing in Political Science. I was fortunate to attend their Washington Internship Program for a semester where I met then RI Congresswoman Claudine Schneider. In what was the first of many Forrest Gump moments she made a passing comment that I should work on her Senate campaign—it happened, and I was off to the races! Spending the next few years working in campaigns before returning to DC and eventually starting my own firm specializing in finance and fundraising for Congressional races. Thirty years later, I have worked with hundreds of elected officials from State Reps to Presidents--it has been a rewarding career. Now I am looking forward to the next adventure hopefully back here in the Ocean State.
How did Saints prepare you for your career/life?
Saints challenged me by expanding my horizons. Growing up in a small community Saints was the first time I was outside of my comfort zone—that experience propelled me to push myself to new heights and realize that setbacks are no big deal. How you get back up, that is what really matters!
Was there a teacher who inspired you during your time at Saints?
Several teachers and members of the Saints community inspired me--Father Bernie Lavin, Ms. Michalczyk, Sister Paul Rita (YES she was tough—but she built my resilience and wow I needed it to deal with members of Congress!) Ms. Pratt, Mr. Murray, and Brother Thomas rounded out a community that together bolstered us Saints to be our best selves—we knew they had our backs.
Do you have a piece of advice for the current students at Saints?
Leave room in your day to hear where God is steering you—He is leading you on the path. Work hard--if you are coasting you are not growing. Whatever it is you enjoy—music, sports, math, reading, find a job in that arena and you will love going to work every day. And you will--Live Jesus in your heart…forever!
Photo note: Carolyn Machado with daughter Adelaide, a recent graduate of The Catholic University of America. Toughest and best job—being Mama!
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Ray Mathieu '65
What did you do when you left Saints and what are you doing now?
Upon graduating from Saints, I attended the University of Rhode Island where I received both my bachelor's degree in business administration and my MBA in Accounting. My professional career has been highlighted by holding several senior executive positions at companies like Fleet National Bank, Bankers Mortgage Corp., Old Stone Corp., Providence Equity Partners and InsureMyTrip.com. I have also had the opportunity to serve on many different Boards of Directors and have held executive leadership positions on many of those boards. Those companies include OSHEAN, The Business Development Co. of RI, Luna Pharmaceuticals and the URI Foundation. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work for companies that have helped create and retain jobs in Rhode Island.
How did Saints prepare you for your career/life?
Saints provided me with a great education and a supportive educational environment. It also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among students, which has been valuable in both my career and personal life.
Was there a teacher who inspired you during your time at Saints?
Brother Peter and Brother Jerome were both inspiring teachers during my time at Saints. Their guidance and dedication left a lasting impact on me.
Do you have a piece of advice for the current students at Saints?
My advice to current students at Saints comes from the wisdom of two great mentors. Brother Peter taught us that the word "can’t" does not apply to the men of SRA. The men of SRA can do anything they put their minds to (as long as it is not illegal, unethical or immoral). Brother Jerome used to remind us that: When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Both messages continue to serve as powerful reminders of resilience and determination.
| This fall, the Saints community is thrilled to welcome our new teachers who bring fresh energy, passion, and dedication to their roles. Following in the footsteps of the many inspiring educators who have come before them, these new faculty members are already making a meaningful impact. With a shared commitment to faith, service, and community, they are poised to guide and shape the next generation of Saints with wisdom, compassion, and purpose. | |
Marie Dufresne
When were you at Saints and what roles did you hold?
I began working at Saints in September 1978. I taught Physical Education—primarily to the girls—for 29 years and also taught Co-Ed Health Education for 18 of those years. In addition, I coached the varsity cheerleaders for 12 years and later coached the hockey cheerleaders for several more years. I served as the SADD moderator for a time and was also a class moderator for multiple graduating classes. I especially enjoyed planning proms and organizing special class events.
What was your favorite part of working at Saints?
My favorite part of working at Saints was working with the students to plan and organize proms and other special class events knowing that I was helping to create memories they’d treasure for years to come. I also enjoyed the opportunity to work with Saar (Tom Sorrentine).
What is one of your favorite memories from your time at Saints?
It’s difficult to choose just one, but one of my favorite memories from my time at Saints was taking 40 students from the Class of 1994 to Grad Night at Disney. The experience was truly magical, thanks to the students and my wonderful co-chaperones—Madame Hayes, Sister Pat Rahaim, and Sister Dianne Roncarati. I have many special friends who I worked with at Saints and still see often; they are friends that I will always treasure.
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Brother Frederick Mueller, FSC
When were you assigned to Saints and what was your role here at Saints?
I only taught one year (1978-79). I was Chairperson of the Religion Department, a member of the Campus Ministry Team, and taught Religion and English.
What did you do following your time at Saints? After my time at Saints I served as Assistant Provincial of the LI-NE District, Assistant Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Providence, Principal of La Salle Academy, assistant professor in the Education Dept. of Salve Regina University, Headmaster of La Salle Educational Center (Long Island, NY), Director of Education for the LI-NE District, and DIrector of Lasallian Formation and the Teacher Induction Program at La Salle Academy.
What are a couple of your favorite Saints memories? Two favorite memories are the faculty skits to initiate the St. La Salle Auxiliary Drive (Ali Pantesco and I did a spin-off of Saturday Night Fever) and the Encountering CHrist in Others (ECHO) retreats.
What stands out in your memory about Saints? I will always remember how tight-knit the school community was, despite the separation of the buildings. I believe that this was a result of the need to work together closely, both students and faculty, to overcome whatever physical deficits were present. The students were wonderful!
Do you have any words of wisdom for our current Saints students? Never forget that you really are 'Saints.' You are called to witness to the Christian and Lasallian message that God desires every person to live life to the fullest.
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Father Mark G. Gadoury, Chaplain
When were you assigned to Saints and what was your role here at Saints?
I’ve been at Saints for a year as Chaplain, and this marks the beginning of my second. Before this, I served as an associate pastor at St. Luke’s in Barrington, and now I’m pastor of St. Joseph Church in Woonsocket, where I also oversee our parish elementary school and serve as a cemetery administrator. In addition, I have the privilege of being the State Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus.
Tell us about your role on campus.
On campus, I enjoy being present with students—between classes, after school, or when they stop by my office for confession, guidance, or conversation. I also visit and occasionally teach classes, and I have the privilege of offering Mass and confessions for the student body, especially during Advent and Lent. My hope is always to remind students they are loved by God and made for a greater purpose that the world can never offer—only Him.
What is your favorite thing about working at Saints?
My favorite part of working at Saints is twofold: the people and the faith. I love the chance to get to know faculty and students personally, and even more, the joy of sharing Jesus Christ through those relationships. It’s a blessing to watch their love for Him grow deeper over time as there is nothing more important.
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Mackenzie Lickert '27
What is your favorite part of being a student at Saints? My favorite part of being a student at Saints is the community support. I truly feel like I'm part of a family that is always there to support me. I feel like I'm part of something bigger than myself. I'm so grateful to be a part of the Saints family!
What is your favorite class at Saints and why? My favorite class at Saints is US History. I enjoy learning about the past and how our country came to be.
What activities are you involved in at school? I am part of the cross country and track and field teams here at Saints. I love being part of the team while getting to do what I love most!
Tell us something about your activities outside of school. Outside of Saints, I run every day so that I'm ready to complete with the best in the state.
(Note: Mackenzie is too modest to say it, but last year as a sophomore, she placed second in a photo-finish at the Cross Country Class C Championships. She then went on to the state meet and placed eighth overall, running the fourth fastest time ever recorded by a Saint (behind Rory Sullivan '25 and and two runs by Rachael Mongeau '21) and earning an All-State honor. She closed out the fall season by competing in New Englands, where she continued to impress by placing 48th (out of more than 250 runners from around New England). We can't wait to see what she'll accomplish this fall as a junior!
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Onassis Soriano '27
What is your favorite part of being a student at Saints? My favorite part of being a Saint is knowing that I have teachers and classmates that are always willing to help.
What is your favorite class at Saints and why? My favorite classes at Saints are any that involve math because math comes easily and quickly to me.
What activities are you involved in at school? At Saints, I am part of the football and baseball teams, where I play at the varsity level. I am also a member of the ultimate frisbee club.
Tell us something about your activities outside of school. Outside of Saints I love to workout with my teammates, play video games, and go to church where I can further my connection with God.
(Note: In the first game of the football season, Onassis was unstoppable in St. Raphael’s win over Coventry. He caught four passes for 224 yards and three touchdowns, including a 99-yard score, highlighting a big day for offense in the Saints’ 42-7 win. You have until Friday to vote for him to be the Providence Journal's Player of the Week: VOTE: Pro Jo Football Player of the Week
| | Many recent graduates are now proudly representing their colleges and universities in a variety of sports and are continuing to make us proud. We wish all our alumni athletes tremendous success in their chosen sport. Remember: Once a Saint, always a Saint! | | |
Karina Contreras '25 - Pawtucket native and former St. Raphael Academy standout Karina Contreras enjoyed a dynamic debut with the Wheaton College women’s soccer team on Sunday afternoon, as she scored a goal in the 39th minute and set up another one in the 57th to help the Lyons to a 2-0 victory over visiting Regis College.
Darius Kipyego '21 - Named to the Providence Journal's 'Quarter-Century All-State Track Team.' While at Saints he was honored twice by Gatorade as the state's premier Boys Track and Field Athlete, owns indoor and outdoor records in the 800 meter, as well as the indoor record in the 600, and won a silver medal for the U.S. at the 2019 Pan American Games. After graduating from SRA, he went on to claim three All-American honors at Iowa State and reached the 800 semifinals at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2024.
Devan Kipyego '23 - Named to the Providence Journal's 'Quarter-Century All-State Track Team.' He graduated Saints after winning three championship races at New Balance Nationals in 2023. He's the state record holder in a handful of events, including both indoor and outdoor 1,500-meter races and the outdoor 3,000. He was the Gatorade Track and Field Athlete of the Year as a junior and continued to Iowa State where he's been part of a national runner-up cross country and scored at both indoor and outdoor versions of the Big 12 Championships. He was also named to the Providence Journal's 'Quarter-Century All-State Cross Country Team.' While at Saints he was a two-time state champion, a New England Champion, the Nike Northeast Regional Champ, and holds the third fastest time at the Ponaganset course. He has just finished his sophomore year at Iowa state where he helped the Cyclones to a runner-up finish in the 10K at the NCAA Cross Country Championships.
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Classes ending in 0 and 5
This is YOUR milestone year! If you’re a proud graduate of a class ending in 0 or 5, your reunion is just around the corner—and we’re kicking off the planning now! Be part of the excitement and help shape an unforgettable celebration. Reach out to Jen Luiz today to get involved!
Classes ending in 1 and 6
Let the planning begin! Were you part of a class ending in 1 or 6? Your next big reunion is coming up—and we need your energy and ideas to make it amazing. If you’re interested in helping plan the party, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out today and join the fun!
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Class of 1965
Date: Oct. 3, 2025
Location: Pawtucket CC
Campus Tours: 4:30 pm
Reunion: 6 pm
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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Class of 1985
Date: Nov. 29, 2025
Location: Our Spot Bar & Grill, Pawtucket
Campus Tours: 5:30 pm
Reunion: 7-10 pm
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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Class of 2000
Date: Nov. 1, 2025
Location: The Guild
Campus Tours: 4 pm
Reunion: 6-10 pm
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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Class of 2005
Date: Sept. 20, 2025
Location: Strive Kitchen & Bar
Campus Tours: 5:30 pm
Reunion: 7-10 pm
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
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Class of 2015
You missed it :(
On September 13, more than 25 classmates enjoyed a sunny afternoon at The Guild reminiscing and reconnecting. Why not reach out to a classmate today? It’s never too late to reconnect!
| | | Make sure your contact information is up to date so you don’t miss any important class announcements. Click the button below to update your details. | | |
Over the summer, a memorial bench in honor of Steve Walach '66 was installed at the entrance of the White Building. The bench was donated in his memory by classmates, family, and friends whose lives were brightened by his kindness, wisdom, and spirit. It is adorned with one of Steve's favorite quotes — “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” – Aristotle. The landscaping bordering the bench was inspired by Steve’s love of gardening. Steve’s legacy will forever live on Walcott Street. Once a Saint… always a Saint!
| New Scholarship: Through the kindness of Mary (Rahill) Tomlinson '79 and her husband, Dave, a new scholarship has been created honoring the memory of Mary's sister Cathy: The Cathleen T. Rahill '81 Memorial Girls Basketball Scholarship. Cathy was a very talented student-athlete here at Saints and a proud member of the softball and girls' basketball teams. Cathy loved basketball and through her kindness gave back to the game she loved throughout her life. In supporting this scholarship, gifts can be made to directly support the girls' basketball team for years to come and create the foundation for Cathy's legacy here at Saints. To donate online in Cathy's memory, please use the following link: Give - Saint Raphael Academy. When asked for a designation, choose Named Scholarships and select "The Catherine T. Rahill '81 Memorial Girls Basketball Scholarship" from the drop-down menu. If mailing in a gift, please make checks payable to Saint Raphael Academy and note Cathy's scholarship in the memo section. Mail checks to Saint Raphael Academy, 123 Walcott Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860. Thank you to Mary and Dave for your kindness and support of our students in Cathy's memory. | |
Peter Miniati '80, Kathy (Poniatowski) Jacques '79, Sue Detri-Souve '79, Mary (Reynolds) Campellone '81, Ron Dalton '79, and Ray Mathieu '65 at a recent Bryant University seminar at The Dunes Club in Narragansett. Saints was well represented and learned about upcoming changes in financial planning.
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Joshua Farrell '22 - Named to the president's list at Western New England University in Springfield, MA for the spring semester.
Father David Gaffney - Former SRA teacher (early 80's), recently celebrated 25 years in the priesthood. He is currently pastor at St. Bernard Church in North Kingstown. Learn more about Father Gaffney.
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Matt Kerwin '06 - Matt currently hosts a pod past called "Tide Talk" that previews each Rhode Island Football Club (RIFC) match and follows with post-match analysis. RIFC is Rhode Island's only pro soccer team; they play at the brand new Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket.
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Have you recently landed a new job, gotten married,
welcomed a new baby, or achieved something exciting?
Share your milestones with the Saint Ray’s community —
your news could be featured in our next alumni update!
Email your updates to Jennifer at jluiz@saintrays.org —
we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
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Saint Raphael Academy stands united in remembering the lives of those cherished members of our alumni family who have passed into eternal life since our last publication. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families and loved ones. We remember the experiences, laughter, and the memories these individuals have left in their wake. Join us as we pause to reflect, to celebrate, and to perpetuate the flame of camaraderie that continues to burn brightly in the hearts of our alumni community. If we have missed the passing of a loved one who is a Saints alum, former faculty, or staff member, please contact Jennifer Luiz at jluiz@saintrays.org so we can honor their memory in a future newsletter.
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Karen DeFalco '90
John Welch '49
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Saint John Baptist de La Salle… pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts… forever!
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Do you know a friend or family member who is a Saint? Are they receiving our emails? If not, we must not have their correct contact information. Simply forward this email to them so they can use the link below to update their contact information, and we'll be able to send them future newsletters.
You can also use the link yourself to ensure that we have your correct mailing address, email, and phone number.
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The Saint Raphael Academy Alumni & Advancement Office
Ron Dalton '79 - Director of Advancement
Jennifer Luiz - Assistant Director of Advancement
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Saint Raphael Academy
123 Walcott Street | Pawtucket, RI 02860
| | | We're an accredited, co-educational high school where students are welcomed, inspired and challenged. | | | | |
