Our Mission
Academic excellence, athletic success, and spiritual growth remain at the core of a SMCHS education. It is a goal shared by all who have walked through the doors of this exceptional school, the St. Mary's Central High School Alumni.
The SMCHS Alumni Association was founded to lend a voice to the many generations of students who have graduated from SMCHS. Scattered across the country, SMCHS alumni are proud to proclaim their roots in Catholic education and are equally proud of the high school they call home.
The mission of the SMCHS Alumni Association is to be a "bridge" between past, present, and future generations of SMCHS graduates. Through the time, talent, and treasure of past generations, today's students are able to experience a Catholic innovation, and a spiritual core. Because of the ongoing commitment to the school, future generations of students remain assured that SMCHS will always be one of North Dakota's premier high schools.
Our Role
The Association's primary role is to insure that any student who has a desire to attend SMCHS, but who may not be able to because of their family's financial status, will have the opportunity. This is largely accomplished through the Association's Annual Scholarship Phon-a-thon.
Taking place in late fall, this scholarship drive raises an estimated $55,000 annually and is the primary source of tuition assistance for SMCHS students. Manned by SMCHS seniors and juniors, the Phon-a-thon reaches out to graduates all across the country, seeking a monetary commitment in support of students in need.
The Association also prepares the DIRECTIONS newsletter, which is mailed out to over 10,000 graduates and supporters of SMCHS three times a year. The DIRECTIONS newsletter provides a glimpse into the wonderful activities taking place at the school, provides insight into the school's needs and successes, and focuses on the success stories of alumni throughout the country.
Finally, the Association manages the North Dakota Teacher Education Program. Regarded as one of North Dakota's top continuing education programs for North Dakota educators, the NDTEP, as it is known, showcases the talents of SMCHS educators as they teach their peers from across the state. Taking place in early summer, the NDTEP is an innovative and energetic place for teacher continuing education.
Your Alumni Association
The SMCHS Association is your association. Comprised of graduates, parents of graduates and long-time SMCHS supporters, the SMCHS Alumni Association truly represents the best of what SMCHS is all about...people. The Association is governed by an Executive Board, which meets monthly to insure that the Association remains true to its mission and goals. A President, Vice President, and Secretary Treasurer are elected annually. Currently, the Association proudly recognizes these officers:
Lee Ron Plante, President
David Spaedy, Vice-President
Tami Stecher, Secretary
Alumni are actively encouraged to be involved in the Association. All alumni are welcome to become members of the Executive Board and to serve on one of the Association's committees ranging from Reunions to Finance.
You are Always Welcome
Many who have walked its hallways call SMCHS home. As an Alumnus, SMCHS is your home and you are always welcome to stop in and visit. We are proud to count you as one of our own.
The door is always open!
Meeting Times
The Alumni Association Board of Directors meets the fourth Wednesday of every month, at 5:30 p.m., in the Kilzer Conference Room at the school.
