The vision set more than five years ago through careful planning, a feasibility study, and the design and development of the Centennial Campaign projects has now become a reality. Thanks to the loyalty and commitment of Bishop McNamara parents, alumni, friends, and supporters, we have reached this incredible milestone together. On August 21, 2025, nearly 200 proud Irish alumni and friends gathered to celebrate the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Rich Zinanni Athletic Complex. The evening was truly a momentous occasion in the life and history of our school!

While there are many individuals to thank, our deepest appreciation goes to all of you who helped bring these projects to life. The St. Patrick Chapel, the Student Success Center, and the newly remodeled Jim Frogge Chemistry Lab have already begun providing exceptional opportunities for our current students and will continue to do so for generations of Irish students to come. Although the projects for the Centennial Campaign may be complete, we kindly ask those who have made commitments to continue fulfilling them as we look toward the future.

As the Initial Phase of the Campus Master Plan concludes, exciting new developments are on the horizon. On behalf of the administration, faculty, staff, and student body, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for making this dream possible and for continuing to believe in the mission, the vision, and the future of Bishop McNamara Catholic School.

Academic  Success Center

Academic Success Center is fully operational

Chemistry Lab

The new Chemistry Lab is utilized at full potential

St. Patrick Chapel

St. Patrick Chapel is now the spiritual focal point of our campus​​​​​

Athletic Complex

Read About The Athletic Complex Journey

"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