This past May, Catholic Central President, Mr. Mike Raiff, was honored as a recipient of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati’s esteemed Sr. Dorothy Stang Award. Mike’s steadfast commitment to Catholic social teachings – especially peace, justice, and solidarity with the poor and oppressed – was central to his nomination for and receipt of this award.
The Sr. Dorothy Stang Award recognizes those whose lives reflect the values of Sr. Dorothy Stang, a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur who gave her life in 2005 defending the rights of subsistence farmers in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. It is presented annually to graduating seniors, faculty, and staff throughout the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.
Mike’s leadership is defined by a deep respect for all cultures and a steadfast commitment to fostering an inclusive, compassionate community at Catholic Central. He has worked tirelessly to bridge divides within the school’s diverse student body, ensuring every student feels valued, seen, and heard. His efforts to strengthen connections among students of different cultural backgrounds reflect the very values Dorothy Stang so passionately lived – advocating for justice, building a peaceful community, and standing with those who are forgotten or marginalized. Mike’s dedication to these principles is evident in every aspect of his leadership, from his daily interactions with students to his long-term vision for the school.
What stands out most about Mike is his holistic approach to student success – addressing not only academic needs, but also the social, emotional, and physical well-being of every student. Under his leadership, Catholic Central has expanded support systems to ensure all students have access to the resources they need to thrive, regardless of the student’s situation or background.
Mike’s commitment to service, genuine respect for others, and passion for creating a more just and compassionate world make him truly deserving of this award. Fittingly, he learned of the honor during Catholic Central’s annual Senior Awards Celebration in May, following a school-wide effort to keep the recognition a surprise.
