The Crusaders’ winter finished strong, raising $74,320 at Mini-THON to fund pediatric cancer research and support families struggling from cancer’s consequences. Over 300 students and faculty were involved in the 24-hour dance marathon Feb. 17 to the 18.

About 30 seniors kicked off spring by going on their Kairos retreat, accompanied by campus ministry director Sharon Hillhouse, Norm Steinruck, Angela Nicolello, Dena Farrell, Kelly Weber and Rob Barnum. The student leaders included rector Tessa Darno, vice rector Joey Simmons, Kayla Vaught, Patrick Elward, Tori Esposito and Evan Pavkovic. The retreat lasted for three days, March 28 to 31.

The Lenten season at Notre Dame ended with Notre Dame students acting in the living stations. Senior Derek McFarland took the role of Jesus, while senior Juliana DiGirolamo played the part of Mary, his mother. Senior voices also narrated, led by Jarod Herman and Leah Brown.

Notre Dame’s spring sports teams have started their seasons. Coached by Michael Bedics, the baseball team traveled to Florida for a week in March to begin its season, which carries only two losses so far. The softball team with head coach Gerald Lewis at the helm recently won their second game against Marian Catholic at the Crusaders’ home field. Boys tennis celebrated their seniors, Derek McFarland, Jon Moran, Matt Hidalgo, and Dan Krochta on April 11.

As the school year draws to a close, the Crusaders still have much to look forward to. On Thursday, April 20, the theater company opens “Curtains,” its spring musical. After opening night, there are three more showings, one on Friday, April 21, and two on Saturday, April 22. Tickets can be pre-ordered or purchased at the door. Seniors Meg Bennett, Dannielle Hibshman, Emily Farmer, and freshmen Eddie Nuber and Sam Durigon star in the lead roles of this murder mystery.

On May 12, juniors and seniors will head over to Blue for a paradise-themed prom. Invitations were handed out in home room, the invitation itself written on parchment and neatly placed in a glass bottle filled with tiny seashells.

Notre Dame will finish the year off with graduation on June 10 at the school, with Baccalaureate taking place at Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Church the night before.

Until these final days of the year approach, the Notre Dame Crusaders will continue to excel in all areas, faithful, loyal, and true to the end.