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| LIGHTING THE WAY FOR BRIGHTER FUTURES: Eugene '54 and Barbara Trela's $1 million donation will endow tuition assistance, making it possible for more students to benefit from an NDCL education. |
Today Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin announced a $1 million gift from Eugene '54 and Barbara Trela.
The gift—one of the largest in NDCL history—will endow tuition assistance, making it possible for students of modest means to attend the Catholic college-preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame in Munson Township.
“I wanted to make this donation because I believe in the school and the culture it provides for students to succeed,” explained Mr. Trela, the retired owner and CEO of Fowler Electric.
“When I visit Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin, I like to sit down and have a hamburger with students in the school cafeteria. I see how good the kids are, how kind they are to one another, and I feel better after each visit.”
“There is such a good, warm, and loving spirit at the school,” he added.
His visits remind him of his own high school days as a student at Cathedral Latin School, one of the forerunners of NDCL.
“I am a proud alumnus of the Cathedral Latin Class of 1954. I remember fondly the great education I received and the wonderful times I had as a student. I still have lunch every month with some of my classmates,” Trela said.
“Now I want to make sure that many others benefit from this quality education as I did.”
Dr. Michael Bates, President of Notre Dame Schools, explained that the Trelas’ gift could not have come at a more critical time.
“Affordability for families is a significant challenge facing NDCL and all Catholic schools throughout the country,” he said.
“Gifts of the magnitude of Gene and Barbara’s generosity are an absolute affirmation of the excellence and importance of Catholic education,” Bates stressed. “Their investment in our mission to educate leaders to transform the world will make a profound and lasting difference for generations to come.”
Mrs. Lynne Gorse Ernes '74, President of the Board of Notre Dame Schools, agreed.
“We are so blessed by Gene, Barbara, and other wonderful alumni and friends who support our school,” she said. “May this gift inspire others to help our students now and well into the future.”