Centennial Campaign Renovations Have Begun!
Work began on both the Chapel and the Academic Success Center in November. Tremendous progress has been made on both of these projects. In fact, if all things continue to move as planned, both the architect and our General Contractor, PSI, have indicated that both projects are on track to be completed by the end of March or early April. This is exciting news! As for the Chemistry Lab, the work on this project is scheduled to begin at the end of this school year. The materials for this project have already been ordered so that work is ready to begin at the end of May. The goal is to have the Chemistry Lab completely remodeled by August, at the start of the 2024-25 academic year.
We are thrilled to see the progress that is being made thanks to the incredible support of our community. This campaign is truly a testament to the dedication and commitment of everyone involved. We look forward to celebrating the completion of these projects and the continued success of Bishop McNamara.
Thank you once again for your generosity and belief in our mission. Together, we continue the legacy of Bishop McNamara and ensure a bright future for our students.
Here's What Our Students Have To Say
Athletic Complex Updated Timeline
We have an important update regarding the timeline for the Athletic Complex. During the preparation phase of all the projects, the engineers discovered that the main service electrical panel, which was installed in 1956 when "the circle" was built, is very antiquated and needs to be replaced. We have made the decision to adjust the start of the Athletic Complex renovations. The new start date will be after the 2024 Fall athletic season.
Invest in the next generation
Central to The Continuing the Legacy Centennial Campaign are key areas of great need.
Academic Success Center
Develop an Academic Success Center. Read more
Chemistry Lab
Renovate the existing Chemistry Lab. Read more
BMCS Chapel
Athletic Complex
Reconstruct the Rich Zinanni Stadium/Athletic Complex. Read more
Building Financial Security: Growing the Endowment
Increase the Bishop McNamara Catholic School Endowment. Read more.
How you can get involved
Bishop McNamara Catholic School is searching for partners who want to make a transformative difference in the life of our students.
Now is the time to further your commitment, and it is our prayer that you will join us in not only sustaining this legacy of education, faith, and service—but in assuring its existence for future generations.
An investment in Bishop McNamara is an investment in the next generation. We invite you to seize the opportunity to shake the hearts and minds of this generation’s students who will go on to shape the future of our community and our world.
Donors helping us build a brighter future
"Bishop McNamara Catholic School has served as a pillar of excellence in education for 100 years. Countless students and their families have been part of the rich and supportive environment provided by the school. The entire Kankakee region is stronger and more vibrant with Bishop McNamara as an educational resource. And with your generous support, that significant impact will continue for many more years."
Jim '68 (Foundation Board President) and Maggie Hansen '68 Frogge
"For 100 years Bishop McNamara has been an integral part of the Kankakee community. While times have changed, the mission to maximize the potential of every student in a faith-based environment endures forever. Now is the time for all of us to boldly stand together as a family with our time and treasure to support our beloved school into the next century."
Bob (Finance Committee Chairman) and Sandy LaMotte '82 Malpasuto
"Over the last 100 years, Bishop McNamara has provided a quality Catholic education to the greater Kankakee County area. So many students' lives have been changed for the better because of the exceptional experience they encountered here. In the spirit of celebration, we must continue to support Bishop McNamara to ensure the next 100 years are as exceptional as the last."
Nick '06 (School Board President) and Meghan '06 Elliott
"We must call upon all friends of Catholic education to help wherever they can. As their support through prayer, labor, and gifts helps them to become partners with us, we will all be truly united in our efforts to continue Bishop McNamara Catholic School education."
Fr. John Peeters, C.S.V., BMCS Executive Pastor
Centennial Campaign Leadership Team
Terry Granger ‘76, BMCS President
tgranger@bmcss.org
Areca Van Mill, Director of Advancement
avanmill@bmcss.org
Chris Stiles, Campaign Counsel - Partners In Mission
Todd Arseneau '86
Kyle '04 and Danielle Vollmer '04 Benoit
Claire Chaplinski ’02
Nick '06 and Meghan Billadeau '06 Elliott
Jim ‘68 and Maggie Hansen ‘68 Frogge
Jim '80 and Lisa Azzarelli '80 Gerth
Sharon Soucie ‘56 Jackson
Elizabeth Marczak '77 Madsen
Bob and Sandy LaMotte '82 Malpasuto
Mike '92 and Nikki Hoevet ‘92 O'Brien
Scott ‘01 and Kim Osenga ‘01 Piggush