New administrators at Bishop DuBourg

The Office of Catholic Education and Formation has named Mark Bayens the new president and Monica Freese the new principal of Bishop DuBourg High School, effective July 1. Bayens is a 1981 DuBourg alumnus and currently serves as the director of athletics at Notre Dame High School. He previously worked at Rockwood Summit High School and has been a teacher, coach and department chair with additional experience in administrative affairs, finance and fundraising. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education and health from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a master’s degree in education from Maryville University and a master’s degree in education administration from Lindenwood University. Bayens’ father, Ray Bayens, was a teacher, class coordinator and athletic director at DuBourg for many years. Bayens is a member of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Parish in south St. Louis County. Freese is currently the assistant principal of Northwest Academy of Law and Social Justice, part of St. Louis Public Schools. She previously worked at Metro Academic and Classical High School and has served as a teacher, department chair and program coordinator. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Blackburn University, a master’s degree in public administration from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, a 7-12 secondary certificate in social studies from Washington University, a 9-12 principal certificate from St. Louis University and a doctorate in education leadership from Maryville University. Freese is a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Shrewsbury.

They got the Blues

Cardinal Ritter Senior Services teamed up with the St. Louis Blues April 16 to host a day of window visits from team mascot Louie and a bingo games hosted by Blues announcer Chris Kerber. Three residential facilities — Mother of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Life and Mary, Queen and Mother Center — had a spirit day to show support for the Stanley Cup Champion St. Louis Blues whose season has been paused due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Isolation and depression are two serious concerns for senior adults’ health in a normal time. With the restrictions of social distancing, the mental health of seniors is even more at risk, and it is even more important to keep senior adults engaged with other people. “The health and well-being of the residents in our care is our top priority every day at Cardinal Ritter Senior Services. We are so grateful to the Blues for offering this opportunity to keep our seniors active and engaged while still maintaining their safety,” said Chris Baechle, Cardinal Ritter Senior Services CEO.