The Marian High School community gathered October 2 at the Pine Lake Country Club to express gratitude during the 18th Annual Marian High School Leadership Circle Dinner. The event celebrated the profound impact these individuals have had on Marian's continued success, with a keynote address from Charlotte DuBay '25, All School Board Co-President.  

DuBay shared her personal journey at Marian and how the school has shaped her into a confident and inspired leader. Her speech captured the essence of Marian’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and the empowerment of young women. 

DuBay began her speech by thanking the leaders in attendance. "Without your undeniable generosity and dedication to serving the young women of Marian High School, I would not be standing before you tonight," she remarked, recognizing the significance of their support. She went on to reflect on her earliest memories as a freshman. “Four years ago, I entered the hallways of Marian as a student for the very first time, filled with the usual combination of nerves and excitement. A recent graduate of St. Regis, I was unsure of what the next four years would entail, especially at an all-girls school. Looking back now, I often reflect on the young freshman I once was – I truly had no idea what the journey ahead of me would look like. “ 

Dubay emphasized the importance of education. She stated how Marian has challenged her academically through coursework and honors science and math classes. “Marian has exposed me to the pillars of STEM,” she explained. “Ultimately, Marian has taught me to make education a priority in my life and has therefore instilled a deep reverence for academia as a result of this.”  

DuBay closed her address sharing the greatest resource Marian has provided her with: “Marian has provided me with the unwavering opportunity to lead. Throughout my time in student government, I have been taught responsibility, organization, and self-advocacy”. She also again thanked the leaders who continuously support Marian.  

Vice President for Advancement Holly Gorecki, also addressed the audience, extending a warm welcome to the evening's attendees. Gorecki acknowledged the significance of the annual gathering, expressing gratitude to the Leadership Circle members for their unwavering support of Marian High School. Her invocation reflected the heart of Marian’s mission—educating young women through faith, academic rigor, and community support. Gorecki emphasized the lasting impact that Marian’s collective dedication has on its students, preparing them to thrive in the world with compassion, leadership, and courage. 

 Marian President Heather Greig Sofran '96 closed the evening with heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the importance of community support for Marian’s continued success. She acknowledged how Marian, as a Catholic, private nonprofit school, thrives because of the belief and dedication of its donors. Sofran spoke to the strength of Marian’s mission—not only to educate, but to shape the next generation of compassionate, intelligent, and morally grounded women. Sofran reinforced the school’s commitment to remaining a premier institution in Michigan. 

Marian is grateful for the partnership of the countless generous supporters who fuel the school’s mission.  Annual giving enhances the Marian student experience, funds innovative ventures, and supports the school’s critical needs.