St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School

St. John Henry Newman CSS celebrates 50 years of excellence!

Joined by the Newman community, including former principals, staff, students, and special guests, St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School celebrated its 50th anniversary, a milestone marking five decades of faith-filled learning, growth, and community spirit.

St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School first opened its doors in 1975 as “Cardinal Newman,” responding to the growing need for Catholic secondary education in East Hamilton and Stoney Creek.

Through moves from its original location on Cromwell Crescent to split campuses and, finally, to its permanent home on Gray Road, Newman’s story has been one of perseverance, growth, and unity. In 2019, following the canonization of its namesake, the school proudly adopted the name St. John Henry Newman Catholic Secondary School.

Reflecting on this legacy at a school-wide mass, Principal Anthony Macaluso shared, “Fifty years ago, Newman opened its doors with a vision rooted in Catholic education — to nurture the minds, hearts, and spirits of young people so that they might grow into leaders, disciples, and stewards of God’s love in the world.”

He spoke with gratitude for the founders, staff, parents, and thousands of students who have shaped the school’s identity, adding that this milestone is not only about looking back but “also looking forward with hope.”

Presiding over the anniversary mass, His Excellency Bishop Douglas Crosby, O.M.I., commended the school’s lasting impact.

“The school has a rich history,” he said.

“Consider the many graduates who have gone from this school and led remarkable lives of service, making the city and wherever they serve a better place. That is what Catholic schools do. They create citizens... ready to make the world a good place, no, a better place to live.”

Guided by service and sustained by a legacy of excellence, Principal Macaluso closed his remarks with a challenge to students: to be “the architects of the next fifty years.”

“Continue to lead with compassion, to stand up for what is right, and to let your faith guide your actions. Be excellent not only in your studies and accomplishments, but in your kindness, and your service to others. The future of Newman rests in your hands — may you build upon this proud legacy with courage, creativity, and faith.”