Mike Kowalczyk

Edison, NJ — In a heartfelt ceremony filled with music, prayers, and personal tributes, St. Thomas Aquinas High School honored the life of alumnus Anthony Raspa, Class of 2008, by dedicating a new space in his memory. The newly named Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge will serve as a reminder of Raspa's profound impact on the STA community and his enduring legacy of service, resilience, and positivity.

Anthony Raspa was known for his unwavering commitment to others, his deep love for his family, and his dedication to making a positive difference. During his time at STA, he was an active member of the Peer Leadership program, contributed to the school newspaper, and competed on the wrestling team. Raspa's story is one of determination: as a freshman wrestler, he endured a challenging season with a losing record but persevered to become a senior captain who won 25 matches and qualified for the state tournament.

The ceremony, which took place on the STA campus, featured a two-part tribute: a solemn prayer service followed by a reception. Students, faculty, and distinguished guests attended the event, including members of the Diocese of Metuchen, the New Jersey State Police, and the Raspa family. The service included moving performances by the Liturgical Choir, directed by STA alumnus Mr. Joseph Cullinan '02, and a series of readings that captured the spirit of Anthony’s life.

The Very Reverend Jonathan S. Toborowsky, Vicar General of the Diocese of Metuchen, delivered a reflection during the service, saying, "God gives us an immortal soul, and though Anthony may have died, his soul lives with us." Additional remarks came from Lt. Colonel Patrick J. Callahan of the New Jersey State Police, who spoke of Anthony’s courage and willingness to serve others: "Anthony did a lot in 24 years. He answered the call that God gave him and was willing to give up his life for people he didn't know." His youngest sister, Christina Raspa, shared emotional stories about her brother, adding, "Whenever I get the opportunity to tell someone I love them, I do so because of Anthony."

After the prayer service, a blessing ceremony was held for the future Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge. The ceremony concluded with a reception, where school President Kevin Sacco recounted how the project began as a modest tribute and grew as more people shared stories about Anthony’s remarkable life. Former Athletics Director Mike Wolfthal also spoke, reflecting on Anthony's impact: "He was the most positive person I've ever met. I don't know anyone who knew him and wasn't inspired by his spirit, determination, and love of life."

Anthony's mother, Elizabeth Raspa, expressed her gratitude to the STA community for their unwavering support: "The theater program is what brought our first child to STA, but it was the community, sports, and faith that made her siblings follow. The relationships we've built at STA will be a part of us forever, and have been so important to us, including in the moment of tragedy."

The Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge will be a gathering place for future generations of STA alumni, a space to remember and honor a young man who lived his 24 years with purpose and passion. His legacy of service and community will continue to inspire all who walk through its doors.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School remains committed to preserving the values that Anthony embodied: faith, determination, and a spirit of service that transcends the classroom and sports arena.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School Dedicates Alumni Lounge in Honor of Anthony Raspa '08

Edison, NJ – St. Thomas Aquinas High School recently hosted a poignant ceremony to honor the life of Anthony Raspa, Class of 2008, and to formally dedicate a new space in his memory—the Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge. This special lounge will stand as a lasting tribute to Anthony's legacy and the profound impact he had on the STA community.

Anthony Raspa's life was marked by an unwavering commitment to others, deep love for his family, and a passion for creating positive change. At STA, he was not only an active participant in the Peer Leadership program and a contributor to the school newspaper, but he also demonstrated extraordinary perseverance on the wrestling mat. Anthony's journey from a struggling freshman wrestler to a senior team captain who won 25 matches and qualified for the state tournament is a testament to his determination, resilience, and leadership.

The dedication event was a two-part ceremony consisting of a prayer service and a reception. The prayer service was attended by the entire student body, faculty, and a distinguished group of guests including members of the Diocese of Metuchen, the Very Reverend Jonathan S. Toborowsky (Vicar General), members of the St. Thomas Aquinas Board of Limited Jurisdiction, representatives from the New Jersey State Police including Colonel Patrick J. Callahan and Lieutenant Alina Spies, and members of the Raspa family.

The service was deeply moving, with music performed by the Liturgical Choir, led by Mr. Joseph Cullinan '02, and a series of meaningful Bible readings. In his reflection, Fr. Toborowsky emphasized the enduring nature of Anthony’s spirit, stating, "God gives us an immortal soul, and though Anthony may have died, his soul lives with us." Additional tributes included heartfelt words from Lt. Callahan, who highlighted Anthony’s dedication to others, noting, "Anthony did a lot in 24 years. He answered the call that God gave him and was willing to give up his life for people he didn't know." Anthony's youngest sister, Christina Raspa, shared cherished memories and stories, adding, "Whenever I get the opportunity to tell someone I love them, I do so because of Anthony."

Following the prayer service, Fr. Toborowsky led a blessing of the future Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge, surrounded by invited guests. A reception in the school Commons followed, where School President Kevin Sacco shared the story of how the dedication began as a small memorial and evolved into a larger celebration as more people came forward to share how Anthony’s life had touched them.

Former Athletics Director Mike Wolfthal paid tribute to Anthony, describing him as one of the most inspiring student-athletes he had ever encountered: "I don't know anyone who knew him and wasn't impacted by his spirit, determination, and love of life. He was the most positive person I've ever met."

Anthony's mother, Elizabeth Raspa, commented after the ceremonies with deep emotion, expressing gratitude for the STA community: "The theater program is what brought our first child to STA, but it was the community, sports, and faith that made her siblings follow. The relationships that we've made at STA will be a part of us forever and have been so important to us, including in the moment of tragedy."

The Anthony Raspa Alumni Lounge is set to become a space for future generations of STA alumni to gather, reflect, and continue the legacy of service, dedication, and community that Anthony embodied so fully during his life.

Aquinas Star Mass Celebrates Light, Love, and Community

On a day celebrating light and hope, St. Thomas Aquinas High School came together for its annual Aquinas Star Mass, honoring two young members of the community. The Aquinas Stars are children from the community with chronic medical conditions whom STA “adopts” to provide year-round financial and emotional support. Celebrating the annual Mass on December 13, this year it coincided with the Feast of Saint Lucy, a day symbolizing light and hope. Students, faculty, staff, and families gathered with the Most Reverend Bishop James F. Checchio of the Diocese of Metuchen to honor this year’s Aquinas Stars, RJ and Allie, and their families.

The liturgy, concelebrated by Bishop Checchio, STA Director of Catholic Identity Father David Keyes, and STA Theology teacher Father Tim Eck, featured hymns performed by the Liturgical Band and Choir under the direction of Mr. Joseph Cullinan ’02.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio underscored the humble birth of Christ and urged attendees to listen closely to His call in their daily lives. He also drew a connection between the Feast of Saint Lucy—whose name means "light"—and the Aquinas Star program, emphasizing how the love and service to the Aquinas Stars embody the central mission to the STA school community.

Following the Mass, Aquinas Star Co-Chairs Brianna Romero ’25 and Adrianna Torres ’26, along with members of the Aquinas Star Board, presented the Stars and their families with gifts funded by donations from STA students, faculty, families, and alumni. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Santa Claus made a surprise appearance, delighting the children and families in attendance.

The Aquinas Star Mass is a hallmark of the Advent season at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, uniting the community in love and service. This year’s celebration, set against the backdrop of the Feast of Saint Lucy, served as a reminder of the power of faith, compassion, and the light we bring to one another.

The St. Thomas Aquinas High School community unites once again, proving that no star shines alone. As STA proudly launched the 37th year of its beloved Aquinas Star program with the annual Spaghetti Dinner, held on October 10, the school community welcomed two special Aquinas Stars: Allison Henry and Robert Meade, Jr. The Aquinas Star program is a cornerstone of STA’s mission to serve others, providing support to families with children facing chronic or acute medical conditions.

The Spaghetti Dinner marked the beginning of a year filled with spirited events that aim to both raise awareness and offer financial assistance to the families. Attendees were moved as Allison and RJ made their first official appearance, each accompanied by their families and students from STA. The cafeteria echoed with applause as the Aquinas Stars were introduced, reflecting the love and support that defines the STA community.

"The Aquinas Star program is a testament to the strong bonds we foster here at STA," said Co-Chairperson Brianna Romero, Class of 2025. "Returning to the program as co-chair this year, I was excited to reconnect with the Aquinas Star families and see how much the program truly touches the lives of everyone involved."

The dinner, STA’s largest fundraiser for the Aquinas Star program, raised an impressive $7,200 through a combination of dine-in meals, takeout orders, and donations. These funds go directly to supporting the medical and financial needs of the Henry and Meade families throughout the school year.

Adding to the evening’s success were the efforts of more than 175 student and faculty volunteers who made the event possible. From ushering guests to serving food and cleaning tables, the volunteers exemplified STA’s mission of service. The food, drinks, and supplies for the dinner were generously donated by students and local community members, while the Woodbridge Knights of Columbus staffed the kitchen.

"It’s true that this community is a family," shared RJ’s mother, Caroline. "As alumni, we were welcomed back with open arms. Even though we graduated almost 20 years ago, it feels like very little time has passed. Thank you for all the prayers and love—it means the world to us."

Allison’s father, Kevin, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Seeing such an awesome and supportive group, with a sea of red shirts greeting us, was overwhelming. We are so grateful and look forward to more events with this amazing organization."

Lead organizer Mrs. Diane Fucci, along with co-chairs Brianna Romero ’25 and Adrianna Torres ‘26, worked tirelessly to ensure the event’s success, and the Aquinas Star Board extended its heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed their time, effort, and generosity to the cause.

As the STA community embarks on another year of the Aquinas Star program, it is clear that the love and support for these families is only just beginning.

For Immediate Release

St. Thomas Aquinas High School to Host Annual Aquinas Star Spaghetti Dinner

Edison, NJ – St. Thomas Aquinas High School proudly announces the upcoming Aquinas Star Spaghetti Dinner, scheduled for October 10 from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. This cherished annual event marks the beginning of a new year of support and togetherness for our Aquinas Star family, embodying the spirit of "One Trojan Family."

The Aquinas Star Program

Since its inception in 1987, the Aquinas Star Program (formerly Ahr Star) has been a beacon of hope and support for chronically or terminally ill children within our community. This program provides comprehensive financial, spiritual, emotional, and community support throughout the year, embracing each Aquinas Star and their family as integral members of our STA family. The Aquinas Star Program stands as a testament to our shared values and collective strength, proving that together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most.

The Aquinas Star Spaghetti Dinner

The Most Reverend Bishop James F. Checchio of the Diocese of Metuchen captures the essence of this event, stating, "It's a wonderful event that shows the true heart of this community. It’s so inspiring to see young people as well as adults participating for the Aquinas Star families."

The Aquinas Star Spaghetti Dinner is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of community, support, and unity. As hundreds of students, families, and community members gather, the atmosphere is filled with warmth and camaraderie. This event brings together a network of student, faculty, and community volunteers, working in unison to serve a delicious meal that symbolizes the Aquinas spirit of care and generosity.

Each plate served and every smile shared reaffirms our commitment to standing by our Aquinas Stars, demonstrating that together, as One Trojan Family, we can make a profound difference in their lives.

This Year's Honorees

This year, we are honored to welcome Allison Henry and Robert Meade, Jr. as our Aquinas Stars. The dinner serves as a heartfelt welcome to these children and their families into the STA community. Donations of food and supplies are generously provided by STA families, alumni, and local vendors. During the event, gifts are given to the children and their siblings, and they are invited to introduce themselves to the community.

Former Aquinas Stars and their families, as well as past Aquinas Star coordinators, are also invited to join us for this special evening, adding to the atmosphere of support and love that defines the Aquinas Star Program.

Join us on October 10 from 4:00 to 6:30 p.m. for an evening of food, fellowship, and heartfelt community spirit. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our Aquinas Stars.

About St. Thomas Aquinas High School

St. Thomas Aquinas High School is dedicated to academic excellence, spiritual growth, and fostering a supportive community. Through programs like the Aquinas Star, we strive to live out our values of faith, service, and community every day.

PRESS INVITATION: Broadway Star Kerry Butler Masterclass at St. Thomas Aquinas High School

Date & Time: Wednesday, April 9, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (approx.)

Location: St. Thomas Aquinas High School

Expected Attendance: 100-150 students

St. Thomas Aquinas High School is pleased to invite members of the press to a masterclass led by Broadway star Kerry Butler, which will include a preview of our upcoming musical Disaster! featuring our very own football quarterback as well as several other varsity athletes. In true Aquinas Excellence, we believe this unique blend of athletic talent and performing arts shines a light on our commitment to educating the whole person.

During this full-day event, Kerry Butler will guide students through hands-on workshops, providing insight into stagecraft, vocal technique, and the passion needed to excel in musical theater. The masterclass will culminate in an on-stage showcase where our student performers will share their newfound skills and creative energy with the community.

Why Attend?

Spotlight on Cross-Disciplinary Talent: Our champion quarterback is stepping out of the end zone and onto the stage, reflecting the versatility and dedication we instill in every student.

In-Depth Performing Arts Education: Gain a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous training and mentorship that help shape tomorrow’s leaders in the arts.

Community Engagement: Observe firsthand how St. Thomas Aquinas brings together truth, faith, love, and friendship, fostering a learning environment that truly values both sportsmanship and the creative spirit.

Local grammar schools will participate in the master call in the morning. Following lunch, the STA Drama Department will take the stage around 1 p.m. followed by a Q&A session with Kerry Butler. You are welcome to join us for some or all of the day’s events.

Interviews and photo opportunities will be available throughout the day. We invite you to witness this exciting fusion of talents for an event that promises to inspire all who attend.

We look forward to welcoming you on April 9 for a day of show-stopping performances.

Two STA Students Lead the Fight Against Cancer, Raising Over $30,000

When Brianna Romero and Grace Pucci signed up for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Student Visionaries of the Year program, they had one goal in mind: to make a difference. Seven weeks later, they had surpassed that goal in ways they never imagined. Their hard work paid off, as they not only surpassed their ambitious $30,000 fundraising goal but also earned the prestigious Mission Pillar Award for their commitment to cancer research.

The journey began when Brianna discovered the Student Visionaries of the Year program and saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Knowing that she and her friend Grace had personal connections to cancer, the two teamed up to take on the challenge together.

“I didn’t want to do it alone, and I knew Grace would be passionate about it, too,” Brianna shared. “We were determined to make an impact.”

Their campaign focused on educating and inspiring students across Central New Jersey, visiting nine schools to host assemblies about blood cancer research and organizing fundraising challenges. Schools participated in dress-down days and competitions, where top fundraisers won incentives like pizza and ice cream parties.

“We found that these competitions really motivated students,” Grace explained. “It wasn’t just about the prizes; it was about making them feel like they were a part of something bigger.”

Beyond school fundraising, Brianna and Grace also secured two corporate sponsorships, pitching their mission to business leaders. Their experience reaching out to schools, business professionals, and community members helped them grow as leaders, building skills in public speaking, networking, and professional communication.

“You’re on Zoom calls with executives, making a case for why they should support your cause,” Grace said. “It was intimidating at first, but we gained so much confidence through the process.”

The cause was deeply personal for both students. Their work with LLS solidified Brianna’s decision to pursue a career in healthcare, now aspiring to become a Pediatric Oncology Nurse Practitioner, continuing her fight against cancer from the front lines of medicine.

Adding to their list of achievements, Brianna and Grace’s team was recognized with the Mission Pillar Award, given to the group that best exemplifies LLS’s commitment to cancer research.

As they celebrated their success at the LLS Grand Finale, the students reflected on what the experience meant to them: “This wasn’t just about raising money,” Brianna said. “It was about bringing people together, educating students, and giving hope to families who are fighting cancer.”

The duo also reflected on the crucial role that St. Thomas Aquinas faculty played throughout their campaign, providing guidance, encouragement, and resources to help them succeed. The school’s counseling office allowed them to practice their presentations, offering valuable feedback to refine their pitches. Teachers and administrators connected them with local school leaders, opening doors for their fundraising efforts. Faculty members also championed their mission within the STA community, helping to spread awareness and rally support. “Mrs. Karabin and the entire counseling office really set us up for success,” Brianna shared. “They let us practice our speeches, gave us feedback, and helped coordinate our presentations at other schools. We couldn’t have done it without their support.” Their success is a testament to the strong culture of mentorship and service at STA, where students are empowered to take action and make a difference.

Mrs. Karabin reflected on Brianna and Grace’s accomplishment, “It was a privilege to see the hard work and dedication they put into this fundraiser for Leukemia and Lymphoma. It is easy to see how compassionate and dedicated these young women are to making a difference in their community. This is a cause very close to my heart so it was an honor to help them in any way I could.”

At St. Thomas Aquinas, where service is deeply embedded in the school’s values, Brianna and Grace’s story is a testament to the power of young leaders stepping up to create real change. Trojans Never Yield, especially when fighting for a cure.

STA Students and Teachers Volunteer at Longmeadow Farms, Rescuing Over 1,500 Pounds of Apples

At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, service and community engagement are at the core of our mission. Recently, 31 students, alongside Mrs. Fucci and Mrs. Marucci, spent a day volunteering at Longmeadow Farms in Blairstown, NJ, through Grow-a-Row International. The group worked together to glean apple orchards, rescuing a total of 1,570 pounds of apples. Their efforts provided 6,280 servings of nutritious produce to individuals facing food insecurity.

The day began with students and teachers reflecting on their "why"—why they were there, why service matters, and how many crops across farms can go to waste despite food insecurity in local communities. Equipped with this knowledge, they set out to make a real difference, ensuring that these apples would go to people who truly need them, rather than be left to spoil.

After returning to school, the group gathered to debrief and share their reflections on the day’s impact. Mrs. Fucci, Director of Student Service, shared, “It was a great first service trip of the year! I thoroughly enjoyed working with the students to make a difference. Our students are always willing to help others, and this activity showed just how hard they will work to do so. I look forward to many more service trips throughout the year.”

One of the attendees, senior Jack Valenzuela, had this to say about his experience: “Hearing the numbers at the end and knowing what we were able to accomplish with only 30 people was really impressive and it really will make an impact on so many people’s lives.”

This service trip is just one of many opportunities STA offers for students to grow as compassionate leaders, grounded in the values of service, faith, and hard work. Experiences like this reinforce our belief that education extends beyond the classroom, providing students with the tools to become active and engaged members of their communities.

As we continue through the year, we look forward to seeing our students and teachers come together for more impactful service trips that make a difference for those in need.

#ServiceLearning #TrojansNeverYield #AquinasExcellence #OneTrojanFamily

STA Walks Out In Support of Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation

St. Thomas Aquinas High School proudly joined forces with the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Foundation (PHF) at Yelencsics Park this past Saturday for the annual Walk Out for Hydrocephalus Research. With over 300 attendees—including dozens of students, parents, faculty, and relatives from STA—the event was a resounding success, raising more than $46,000 for hydrocephalus research.

Among those representing STA was Allie Henry, one of this year’s Aquinas Stars, who, along with STA students, showed exceptional dedication and enthusiasm. Co-organizer for STA Carley Schwarz, Class of 2026, shared, “Seeing the amount of people that came together to support kids with hydrocephalus was amazing. This event meant so much to Mrs. Fucci, Mrs. Henry, and their families, and I am so grateful I could be a part of it!”

Emily Pittari, Class of 2025, who also helped organize STA’s participation in the event commented: “I wanted to do everything I could to help fundraise to find a cure for this disease that affects so many people. We helped sell bracelets at lunch, and it was so inspiring to see how many students, teachers, and staff wanted to support this cause.”

The beautiful sunshiny day was filled with hugs from old friends, newcomers eager to join the cause, and a strong sense of community spirit. “The staff, students, and parents of STA rocked our event this year! Simply amazing and some of the best volunteers we ever had!” said Kimberly Illions, PHF NJ President.

"It was heartwarming to see how many students, families, alumni, and staff came out to show support. I am very proud of our students and their willingness to help with anything that is needed. St. Thomas Aquinas High School is my home away from home and I know that the students have the same feeling."

The countless volunteers, including students from STA, contributed significantly to the event's success with their enthusiasm and dedication. The generous donations from participants will go directly towards funding research to find a cure for hydrocephalus, a condition that affects many, including families within our own community.

Growing Together at STA: A Culture of Mentorship and Support

At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, the culture of mentorship runs deep, woven into the very fabric of student life. Whether through formal programs like Peer Leadership, exciting events like We Are STA Day, or the everyday relationships between teachers and students, it’s clear that at STA, students are loved and supported.

One of the key examples of this supportive culture is STA’s Peer Leadership program. An elective course for seniors, Peer Leadership equips students with advanced communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. Those skills are put into practice when the Peer Leaders meet with their freshmen mentees every week, guiding them through discussion groups and bonding activities that create a bond that helps the newest members of STA navigate the challenges of high school life. “It’s a chance to grow personally while helping others,” says one current peer leader. Peer Leadership, which began in 1991, is a cornerstone of STA’s focus on mentorship and has benefited countless seniors and freshmen alike.

Mentorship doesn’t stop there. Every fall, STA hosts We Are STA (WASTA) Day, a lively, welcoming event designed to help freshmen feel at home before their first official day of classes. Hundreds of upperclassmen—giving up their own day off—volunteer to guide freshmen through a day of team-building games, scavenger hunts, and small-group icebreakers. “We want the freshmen to feel like they’re already part of the family,” explains one Student Council member. “It’s a day for them to connect, have fun, and know they belong.”

But the support isn’t just peer-to-peer. STA teachers are deeply invested in their students' success, both academically and emotionally. Counselors meet with each freshman during the first quarter to ensure they are adjusting well. Teachers serve not only as educators but also as mentors, offering guidance that goes beyond the classroom. “We want to make sure every student feels seen and supported,” shares one STA faculty member.

In the halls of STA, it’s not just about learning—it’s about growing together. Whether through formal programs or daily interactions, the love for students is unmistakable. It’s more than a school; it’s a family.

Dear Faculty and Staff,

As we approach Christmas, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the dedication, compassion, and excellence you bring to our school every day. Your efforts to illuminate minds and inspire hearts make St. Thomas Aquinas High School a place of faith, growth, and transformation.

During this holy season, we are reminded of the hope that the birth of Christ brings to the world—a hope that shines through your work with our students. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, on stage, or through service, your commitment to their success is a true reflection of the Christmas spirit.

May this season bring peace and joy to you and your loved ones. Thank you for all that you do to make STA an exceptional community. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

God Bless,

Principal