Marian Catholic High School announced the establishment of a new endowed scholarship, revealed as a surprise highlight during the recent Distinguished Alumnus and Hall of Fame Celebration in the John P. Malarkey ’51 Gymnasium.

John P. Lavelle Jr., Esq., a partner at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius and recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumnus Award, announced that his family is establishing an endowed scholarship in honor of his parents, the Honorable John P. Lavelle and Marianne S. Lavelle, Esq.

The scholarship will support an incoming Marian student from Carbon County beginning with the 2026-27 academic year.

Lavelle, a member of Marian’s board of directors, said the scholarship reflects his family’s gratitude to Marian and his parents’ unwavering commitment to faith-based education.

“Marian was and continues to be a very special place to me,” Lavelle said. “The care, support and encouragement I received there shaped not only my education, but who I became as a person.

“This scholarship is a way for our family to honor my parents, whose belief in Catholic education made it possible for me and my siblings to attend Marian, and to help ensure that future students have the same opportunity to grow in faith, knowledge and purpose.”

Lavelle grew up in Lehighton, and his three siblings also graduated from Marian.

“The Lavelle family gift is both inspiring and transformative,” said the Rev. Robert Finlan, school principal. “It speaks to the lasting impact Marian has on its students and the deep gratitude our alumni feel for their formation here.

“This endowed scholarship will open doors for students and families seeking a Marian education, and it stands as a powerful testament to faith in action.”

Endowed scholarships at Marian Catholic High School are designed to provide financial assistance to students in perpetuity. Each fund is invested, with a portion of the annual earnings awarded as scholarships while the principal remains intact, allowing the fund to grow over time. A minimum of $50,000 is required to establish an endowed scholarship, with flexible giving options available.