Dempsey Receives Award
Gross Catholic is proud to announce that Mike Dempsey, assistant principal and athletic director, has been named Educator of the Year by the Archdiocese of Omaha. Dempsey has served at Gross Catholic for the past 30 years as a classroom teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal and athletic director.
The Educator of the Year Award recognizes teachers and administrators who demonstrate a strong personal commitment to Catholic education and give extraordinary service to others. Dempsey will be honored along with seven other educators on September 12, 2019 during the Archbishop’s Dinner for Education, an annual celebration of Catholic education that recognizes the dedication of Catholic school educators, acknowledges those who support Catholic schools, and raises scholarship funds for low-income students to attend Catholic schools. Additionally, each honoree receives a $5,000 award in recognition of their outstanding service to Catholic education.
“It is truly and honor to work with Mike on a daily basis. His dedication to this school, to our staff, to our students and to the families is evident in everything he does,” said Paulette Neuhalfen, principal. “He leads through example, rather than just by word – he is always one of the first people to lend a helping hand and is always one of the last to leave the building.”
“Gross Catholic’s motto is Dux Esto…Be a Leader. Mike has set the bar high on what a leader should be. He deserves the honor of being named Educator of the Year,” said Anne Nickerson, parent of a 2018 graduate.
“Mike has continually worked to improve himself professionally by acquiring advanced degrees in counseling and administration,” shared colleague and educator Jocko Ilcisin. “Seeking no praise or acknowledgement, he has constantly been the first to offer himself to students, parents, coaches and colleagues in order to provide assistance to help them improve, solve their problems or simply provide support.”
According to Gross Catholic President Dr. Dorothy Ostrowski, “Mike is an outstanding role model for other educators as well as our students. His ability to lead with humility and compassion make him a highly regarded member of the Cougar Family.”
About Gross Catholic
One of Nebraska’s premier private schools, Gross Catholic High School is a faith and family-based community committed to developing Christian leaders through academic excellence in the Marianist tradition. Recognized locally for its outstanding education, welcoming atmosphere, competitive sports programs, engaging activities, robust faith, and boundless service work, Gross Catholic has energized the Omaha area for 50 years. We are Faithful, Compassionate, and Driven!
To discover the Gross Catholic difference, contact us at 402.734.2000 or visit our Admissions page at grosscatholic.org.
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