Grandparents Day, a biennial event hosted by the Office for Institutional Advancement, offers grandparents a chance to visit Marist School, explore its history and educational philosophies, and connect with their grandchildren on campus.

On Friday, April 19, more than 500 grandparents visited Marist School for the biennial Grandparents Day, a celebration of family and the enduring values of love, legacy, and community that define the school.

The day began with a welcome reception featuring a light breakfast and coffee. Grandparents and their grandchildren gathered in the Arcade during Activity Period, enjoying warm moments despite the rain. Smiling faces filled the space as families captured photos, shared stories, and explored campus, including the hilltop chapel, through guided tours.

In Centennial Center’s Young Gym, grandparents attended a special program featuring remarks from school leaders and students. Student government co-president Adriana Acevedo ’24 and Afton Mosley ’24 shared heartfelt tributes to their grandparents, while President J.D. Childs and Principal Kevin Mullally provided school updates. The Marist Singers performed "Route 66" and drama students performed “We See the Light” from the recent Marist Theater production of “Something Rotten!”. For those unable to attend, the Marist Broadcasting Club livestreamed the event.

School Chaplain Father John Ulrich, S.M., reflected on the importance of grandparents: “They teach us the story of our families and pass on faith traditions, helping us understand our history as we chart our future.”

Grandparents Day Chairs Cathy and Frank Belatti shared personal stories of love and legacy, expressing their hope that their grandchildren would remember their support and example. As Marist parents to Carrianne Belatti McCormack ’89, Alyson Belatti Watson ’92, Gregory Belatti ’02, and Michael Belatti ’07 and proud grandparents to Emery Watson ’23, Elizabeth “Cece” Watson ’26, and Jack Watson ’29 and their six other grandchildren, their hope and commitment to sustaining the Marist community for generations to come were inspiring.

Marist School thanks all grandparents for their immeasurable influence and unwavering love, which continue to shape and strengthen the Marist community.

“All grandparents are superheroes and possess more influence than they realize.” Frank Belatti, Marist Grandparent