Cardinal Timothy Dolan visited Monsignor Scanlan High School in the Bronx on Monday, September 18, to celebrate Mass, and dedicate and bless Scanlan’s new Zolfo Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Center and the Cardinal Dolan Garden.

The Zolfo STEM Center was made possible by the dedication and generosity of the late Frank Zolfo, ’59, the Zolfo family, and friends. The Zolfo STEM Center represents a substantial enhancement of Scanlan’s academic offerings, attracting and providing opportunities for high-achieving students with a passion for STEM. The Zolfo family also makes possible, through financial assistance and mentorship, for many Scanlan students to receive a quality Catholic education and go to college.

Cardinal Dolan honored the late Juan Gutierrez, ’67, a valued Scanlan Board member. Gutierrez funded many improvements to enhance the physical beauty and functionality of Scanlan’s 13-acre campus. Juan and the Gutierrez family also have endowed The Juan Gutierrez Scholarship Fund to ensure that financially needy students will receive a Monsignor Scanlan education for years to come.

Cardinal Dolan noted that 15 years ago when he became Archbishop, Monsignor Scanlan High was teetering financially. “Scanlan High School is so moving because you have had to fight to save it and keep it strong. You did not just survive; you are flourishing and for that, we say thanks be to God.”

Cardinal Dolan also thanked Chris Gallagher, ’65, and Joe Solimine, ”61, and the entire Scanlan Board of Trustees for rolling up their sleeves, solving problems, and allowing Scanlan to flourish. He also thanked Principal Eric Mercado and the dedicated teachers and staff of Monsignor Scanlan, who bring so much to the Scanlan students, the entire Scanlan Family, and most of all, Jesus Christ.

Chris Gallagher thanked Cardinal Dolan, adding, “Cardinal Dolan is a tremendous advocate for and supporter of Catholic education. Cardinal Dolan and all who work in our Catholic schools cannot do this alone. All of us need to be involved. We thank all who support our students and Catholic education.

“Our most successful graduates are the strongest believers in Catholic education. Catholic education provides the moral underpinning for you to do the right thing and succeed spectacularly in every aspect of life.

“Although we do not receive fair and just support from our government, we succeed. Last year we had our usual success — graduating 99% of our students and sending 96% to college. Our country desperately needs Catholic education and schools like Monsignor Scanlan High School,” Gallagher said. 

Following Mass, Cardinal Dolan dedicated and blessed the new Cardinal Dolan Garden, an oasis in the oasis that is Monsignor Scanlan High School.