2008 Man of the Year

 
Roger Abood ’61

St. Peter Chanel High School President and Principal Roger Abood ’61, a well-known Catholic educator in the Cleveland area, has been chosen to receive the highest honor of the Cathedral Latin Alumni Association, the Merit Award, for 2008. The annual Merit Award is given to one who by his conduct and example has brought renown to Cathedral Latin School.

After Latin, Roger went on to John Carroll University for undergraduate and graduate degrees in the sciences, with further graduate work at John Carroll, Ursuline College, and the University of Dayton.

Abood has been a teacher, coach and administrator at Chanel since 1967 and was appointed principal in 1987. He taught many science courses, including anatomy, biology, chemistry and earth science. He also taught at Cuyahoga Community College. Abood has been recognized for his professional contributions by Chanel, John Carroll and the North Coast League. He also has been honored as North Coast League Baseball Coach of the Year.

Abood followed his older brother, Jim ’47, to Latin, but says it was the reputation of CLS at St. Ann School that was the most compelling reason for making his choice. He recalls that he was most impressed with the devotion of the Marianists to Mary and that priest and brothers were authentic people – that they smiled and were interested in you.

In particular he recalls Brother Frank, Brother Tonry, Brother Conlon, and Brother Geiger. Also important was the dedication of the lay faculty, and the ‘addendum’ of Mr. Ternansky.

Of course, as most alumni remember, he noted the vibration of the gym during the rallies and the spirit of the senior class. The experience at CLS was responsible for his decision to be an educator. His impression of CLS will never be lost to him.

Roger and his wife, Kathleen, have four children and nine grandchildren.

 

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