Providence Catholic High School held their annual President’s Mass of Thanksgiving and Cor Unum award ceremony in early September. Guests gathered to honor this year’s Cor Unum recipients, Ted and Norma Berman of Joliet and Bruce and Karen Burns of New Lenox.
The Bermans have two children, Briana (Berman) Mason (’01) and Gabriella Berman (’13), both of whom are Providence Catholic alumnae. The Berman’s daughters introduced them, speaking of their parents’ upbringing in Catholic families, which was deep rooted in a strong Catholic education. They also spoke of their passion for helping those less fortunate through sponsoring children in Africa to participating in Right-to-Life organizations. Ted (’76) and Norma (’78) are both active alumni and continue to support Providence Catholic education through the Celtic Godparents program. The Bermans are parishioners at St. Jude in Joliet.
The Burns’ were introduced by Rev. John Merkelis, O.S.A. Fr. Merkelis spoke of Bruce and Karen’s support of Providence Catholic and the many committees that they have served on as well as their involvement with the New Lenox Rotary Club and St. Jude Parish. They are the proud parents of PCHS alumni Jordan (’13) and Johnathan (’13). While their children have both graduated, Bruce and Karen continue to support Providence Catholic with much of their time and photography talents.
The Cor Unum medallion, the school’s most prestigious honor, is awarded annually to persons who exemplify its inscription of “One Heart…in Ministry…in Mission…in Family.”
Rev. Richard J. McGrath, O.S.A., president of Providence Catholic High School, presented the Cor Unum medallions.
“Both couples personify the meaning of ‘Cor Unum’ through their generosity to help Providence Catholic become the school it is today; a community of believers working toward the common goals of providing a safe and healthy environment for students to grow spiritually, academically and socially,” said Rev. McGrath.
To highlight the importance of this award, a $5,000 endowed scholarship will be established in the name of each of the recipients. These scholarships will be awarded on the basis of financial need. Last year the school awarded 29 Cor Unum Scholarships to students.
“It is our hope that the Providence community will continue to contribute toward these scholarships to increase the financial assistance available to students in need,” said Ed Barrett, director of Institutional Advancement at PCHS.
If you would like to support the Cor Unum Scholarship, please contact Ed Barrett at ebarrett@providencecatholic.org or 815.717.3164.