Bordelon, Montz, Singleton lead Class of 2008

The 57^th graduation class at St. Charles Catholic High School received diplomas following a Mass May 16 at Ascension of Our Lord Church, LaPlace. Father Walter Austin, the school’s chaplain, was the main celebrant for the Graduation Mass for the 101 members of the Class of 2008. Diplomas were distributed by Andrew Cupit, Sr., principal.

Valedictorians were Catherine F. Bordelon and Erika E. Montz. Bordelon, the daughter of David and Julie Bordelon of LaPlace , finished with a GPA of 4.80. As a Comet, Bordelon was a member of the Sparks , Cheerleaders, Retreat Team, Student Council, and the National Honors Society. She participated in the French Club, Library Club, and Ambassadors Club.
As a freshman, Bordelon was chosen as the Most Outstanding Girl in her class by her teachers. She was selected as a Senior Salute for the Times-Picayune and as the Rotary Club’s Student of the Second Quarter this year. In addition, Bordelon also won several essay contests and had some of her poetry published.

“I am excited and delighted to be named valedictorian,” Bordelon said. “It is a testament to my hard work and dedication both in and out of the classroom.” Much of her success can be attributed to her parents and the inspiration she received from her dermatologist, Dr. Barbara Bopp, to pursue a dermatology degree at Rhodes College in Memphis. “Because of personal struggles, I want to help others in the same way that my dermatologist helped me,” Bordelon said.  

As she moves on to college, Bordelon takes with her memories of cheering at two state championship football games, countless bus rides to events where she cheered, and the March for Life Trip she took this year to Washington, D.C. “I will remember that the Pro-Life movement is not just about the unborn but also for complete dignity of life,” she said. “The trip was amazing and a lot of fun.”

Bordelon has earned more than $320,000 in scholarships and awards to various universities and colleges. She is also the recipient of the TOPS Honor Scholarship offered through the state of Louisiana .

Montz, the daughter of Peter and Michelle Montz of LaPlace , finished with a GPA of 4.80. She was a member of Sparks , Starstepper dance team, swim team, and Retreat Team. Montz was also a member of the National Honor Society, Library Club, and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Montz was named to the St. Charles Principal’s List all four years of high school, and was named Student of the Year in her junior year. (continued)