Marian Catholic High School achieved its most successful Marian Fund campaign in the school’s history, raising $555,187 during the 2025-26 fiscal year, which concluded June 30.

The total surpassed the campaign goal of $550,000 and eclipsed last year’s record of $518,584, making it the largest Marian Fund since the annual giving program was established in 1990.

The record-setting year places Marian among the upper tier of annual fund programs for Catholic high schools in the Diocese of Allentown and reflects growing confidence in the school’s mission and future.

“The generosity of the Marian community has been truly inspiring,” Marian’s principal, the Rev. Robert Finlan, said. “Every gift, regardless of size, is an investment in our students and our Catholic mission. This extraordinary achievement demonstrates that our alumni, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff and friends believe deeply in Marian Catholic High School and the life-changing education we provide.

“We are profoundly grateful for the confidence they have placed in our school.”

The Marian Fund was fueled by several highly successful initiatives throughout the year, including Giving Tuesday, which generated $58,266 on Dec. 2, and Day of Caring, which raised $100,289 in March.

Friendly competition among alumni classes also played a significant role in the Marian Fund success. The top three classes in gifts to the Marian Fund were the classes of 1971, 1969 and 1966, with 46 donors, 33 donors and 24 donors, respectively, while the top three classes in Marian Fund giving were the classes of 1976, 1979 and 1962, which contributed more than $77,652, $33,605 and $26,932, respectively.

“This remarkable accomplishment reflects something much bigger than a fundraising total,” Dr. Erin Marek, director of advancement, said. “It represents a community that believes in Marian’s mission and wants to ensure that future generations of students have the same life-changing opportunities that so many of our alumni experienced.

“The momentum at Marian is contagious, and we are humbled by the generosity shown by so many people who continue to invest in our future.”

Larry Furey, chairman of the board’s Advancement Committee, said the campaign demonstrates the strength of Marian’s expanding culture of philanthropy.

“When over 700 alumni make a gift, donors from more than 35 states invest in Marian, and 141 people choose to become first-time donors, you know something special is happening,” Furey said. “The momentum at Marian is real, and our supporters are responding in extraordinary ways.

“This record-breaking Marian Fund is the result of thousands of acts of generosity, remarkable volunteer leadership and a shared belief that Marian Catholic High School’s best days are still ahead.”

Co-chairs of the fund were Dan LaBert and Maria Montero, Esq.

The Marian Fund provides critical support for Marian Catholic High School’s annual operating budget, helping bridge the gap between tuition revenue and the actual cost of educating each student. Gifts directly support student financial aid, academic excellence, faith formation, technology, campus improvements and countless opportunities that benefit every Colt and Fillie.

The goal for the 2026-27 Marian Fund is $600,000.

To learn more about getting involved at the school, contact Finlan at 570-467-3335 or rfinlan@mariancatholichs.com, or Marek at 570-467-3335 or emarek@mariancatholichs.com.