Four Students Receive Award Honoring Former Staffulty Member Joe Rozanski

Central Catholic seniors Jerome Davis V, Sarah Garcia, Jaida Romero, and Draden Wardrop were presented with the Joseph Rozanski Memorial Award after the all-school Mass on December 3 in Krompak Hall.  This award honors Joe Rozanski, who taught U.S. Government at Central Catholic for over 40 years and managed the Shamrock Shop.  Joe passed away on October 20, 2020.

A group of former Central Catholic employees who worked with Joe created the award to celebrate students who demonstrate a positive attitude and love for Central Catholic High School similar to Joe’s.  The criteria for selection include academic success in U.S. Government, a good sense of humor, great self-esteem, a big heart, and a commitment to Central Catholic’s mission.  Each student is awarded a gift certificate to be used at the Shamrock Shop.

“It feels good to get an award like this because it shows that my hard work in social studies is being acknowledged,” Sarah said.  “I love learning about history.  And I think my sense of humor is just part of my upbringing, so it’s nice to know that it’s appreciated as well.”

“It’s good to know your personality can brighten someone’s day,” said Jerome.

“This award actually left me speechless,” said Jaida.  “Government is a hard subject!  It also feels great to be seen for my outgoing personality.”

“It’s amazing to be thought of in such a positive way,” added Draden.  “It’s a blessing to be recognized like this because the people are what really make Central Catholic the amazing place that it is.”

The former employees who donated funds for the award were Terrie Albert, Deb Bercher, Rick Briggle, Peg Huntebrinker, Pat Oedy-Murray, Mike Padgett, Ron Pilatowski, Joette Rozanski, Susan Santoro, Dave Schetzsle, Mike Smith, and Mary Lou Snyder.  Many of them were in attendance when the awards were presented, as this was also the fourth-annual Celebrate Central Mass.  CCHS invites former teachers, administrators, and staffulty members to this Mass each year to celebrate the great impact that faculty and staff make on our students.

Past Winners of Joseph Rozanski Memorial Award
2021 – Ronnell Gilmore, Carrington Kynard
2022 – Ty'Waun Clark, Ashley Cutcher, Kamari Devalt, Shaleah Page
2024 – Jerry Barnes, Chanel Miles, Kydall Tuggle
2025 – Jerome Davis V, Sarah Garcia, Jaida Romero, Draden Wardrop