“To all who are passionately dedicated to the search for new ‘epiphanies’ of beauty so that through their creative work as artists they may o er these as gi s to the world.” – Letter of his Holiness Pope John Paul II to Artists, 1999 the arts come alive Principal’s Message About the Fine & Performing Arts at Aquinas Ed Fiorentino ‘76 L-R: Brian White (Band), Andy Pratt (Vocal Music), Megan Barbour ’05 (Theatre), Wynton Rice (Dance), Matt Naber (Visual Arts), Kristie Schillaci (Dance), Lorin Easton (Chair, Visual Arts) Fr. J. Leonard “Bud” Cullen (Art and Drama 1950-1979), pictured with James Blackburn (taught at AQ and helped with the sets), and Helen Lopuchowycz (AQ parent) Fr. James Kelly, CSB (Drama Director 1983-1988) Mary Krickmire (2004-2017, Theatre) Jeff Wilson (Music/Choir/ Theatre 2007-2016) Donna Damelio Brett (Inaugural Dance Teacher) James Ferris (Music/ Band 1990-2010) Terrance Keach (Music/ Choir 1998-2006) From its inception, Aquinas embraced the importance of academic rigor and a holistic education, incorporating Fine and Performing Arts into its curriculum. Early programs in music, visual arts and theatre, laid the foundation for what would become thriving departments. In 2005, Aquinas expanded its o erings further by introducing its dance program to start the new millennium. As one of the few high schools in the Rochester area to provide such a comprehensive arts education, Aquinas remains dedicated to nurturing the creative passions of its students. roughout its history, Aquinas has been fortunate to attract visionary faculty dedicated to nurturing artistic talent. One such luminary was Fr. Leonard “Bud” Cullen, CSB, whose passion for the arts ignited the imaginations of hundreds of young men and women in drama, stage design, music, and art. Fr. Cullen’s emphasis on technique and self-expression within a classroom environment, and without a “cookiecutter” approach to curriculum, resonated with aspiring young artists. His legacy continues to shape the robust ne arts program at Aquinas today. Our arts faculty are, and have always been, working artists prepared to share their passion for art and creation with students. Aquinas has also celebrated many students who have gone on to careers in the arts as educators, performers, working artists, writers, curators, historians, technicians, and great appreciators. Studying the arts at Aquinas fosters creativity, collaboration, and empathy—qualities essential for success in any endeavor and certainly qualities that reinforce the Aquinas mission. Students who engage with the arts develop critical thinking skills, gain con dence in their abilities, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the world around them. e arts serve as a catalyst for social change, empowering students to explore complex issues and advocate for positive transformation. Aquinas’ commitment to community engagement is exempli ed through its arts programs, providing platforms for dialogue and expression. Whether a student studies dance, music, art, or theatre in the classroom or participates in one of the many co-curricular options, there is an opportunity to experience and create art that challenges the intellect and builds lifelong memories. As Aquinas looks to the future, its dedication to the arts remains unwavering. e school continues to invest in state-of-the-art facilities, recruit excellent faculty, and foster a supportive environment where creativity can thrive. With a history and tradition of excellence and innovation, Aquinas is poised to inspire the next generation of artists, musicians, and performers. e history of Fine and Performing Arts at Aquinas is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and expression and to the charisms of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. From its humble beginnings to its current stature, Aquinas has remained steadfast in its commitment to nurturing artistic talent and enriching the lives of students. rough the dedication of faculty members and the passion of students, Aquinas continues to cultivate opportunities for artistic expression and a profound understanding of the world around us. Aquinas Evermore, T M ’ Principal 8 AQUINAS LANDMARK | SUMMER 2024
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