Voices Ringing
Carroll High School Blog
Universal Faith: Meet the Fedorisin Family
The most common things make the biggest difference when you’re 4,800 miles from home.
“I was surprised by how big the roads and the cars are in America,” Noemi Fedorisinova ‘26 recalled – just one of many eye-opening experiences from when she and her family arrived in the United States from their native Slovakia. Unlike many families who left eastern Europe in 2022, Noemi, her sister Sofia ‘24, their parents, and their brothers were not fleeing the burgeoning war between Russia and Ukraine. Their father, Francis, is a Byzantine Catholic Priest who had been urged by a bishop in 2019 to relocate his family to the United States to help grow their ministry.
The family spent months in deliberation and prayer to make a decision. They ultimately decided to leave behind their comfortable lives in Slovakia to answer the bishop’s call to spread their faith. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic put their plans on hold, but the family arrived in Charlotte after a 24-hour journey from Budapest.
Dormition of Mother of God, Byzantine
Catholic Church in Cleveland.
“There was also sadness because I had made good friends and was in a good high school community,” Sofia said. “It’s important for our family to make decisions together and make sacrifices for the church and our faith. It’s important to be able to sacrifice even the great life that we had in Europe. Everything was perfect there, but we sacrificed it to help people here."
After adjusting to the weather, tweaking their English dialect from British to American, and bouncing from Charlotte to Cleveland to Dayton, the family settled into their new life.
“For my first three months of school, I was just sitting and doing nothing because I was so stressed. I tried to speak, but it was bad. When I went to high school, I started to talk and make friends and things got better. The teachers are always trying to help you, and I really appreciate that.”
Sofia and Noemi also learned about the differences between the Roman Catholic and Byzantine traditions while attending Catholic schools. Their father leads the St. Barbara the Great Byzantine Catholic Community and is the officiant for its services in St. John Bosco Chapel on the campus of Wright State University. For all the differences in rites, Sofia says the commonalities are much greater than what distinguishes the two ways of practicing faith.
“Everything that we do in the Byzantine church is based on the Roman Catholic Church. We are Catholic. We are united.”
Editor's Note: This story originally appeared in the Spring 2024 edition of Reflections. Click here to read the entire magazine.
Corrinn Neidhard '26: Student of the Week March 21, 2024
Corrinn Neidhard ‘26, Trinity House and St. Helen School Alumna, with Mrs. Melissa (Balsom) Fisher ’83
Corrinn has taken a leadership role with the Revolution Lenten Challenge for the Almsgiving challenge. She is also one of the leaders for one of the Key Club events at the end of March. She has been organizing the event, taking notes, and truly being a leader and easy to work with!
-Mrs. Melissa (Balsom) Fisher '83
Favorite Restaurant:
Raising Cane's
Favorite Movie:
Dear John
Who would play you in a movie:
Jenna Ortega
Place you’d love to travel:
Maldives
What activities do you participate in?
I'm a member of Carroll girls' soccer, club soccer, Key Club, Pickleball Club, and Revolution Committee
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Archbishop Carroll High School is all the opportunities to give back to the community through volunteering or other service projects.
What should school “do” for you?
School should push me to be the best I can while helping me learn life skills.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
Don’t stress over things you can’t control.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream is to travel the world by country and give back to the communities I visit through service projects and volunteering.
How do you like spending your free time?
I spend my free time usually hanging out with my friends or shopping.
Marco Keferl '26: Student of the Week January 25, 2024
Marco Keferl '26, Trinity House and St. Brigid School Alumnus, with Ms. Tiffany Hunsinger
Marco Keferl is always ready to serve and go above and beyond to help others and the class. He is attentive and strives to do his best in class. I appreciate his positive attitude and willingness to listen and put in effort for excellent assignments.
-Ms. Tiffany Hunsinger
Favorite Restaurant:
Tudor's Biscuit World
Favorite Movie:
Silence of the Lambs
Who would play you in a movie?
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Place you'd love to travel:
Dubai
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in football, wrestling, and track & field.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is the community at Carroll. It is so welcoming, and I like how they are inclusive towards everyone.
What should school “do” for you?
School should provide a foundation for who you are and will become. It should prepare you for the journey of life ahead. It should have adults that you can trust and talk to if ever in need or just want to talk.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I’ve learned not to let your past define you. It’s in the past for a reason.
How do you like spending your free time?
I don’t have much free time, but when I do, I like to be with my friends and get chocolate milk.
Caleb Jackson '26: Student of the Week November 2, 2023
Caleb Jackson '26, Mercy House, with Mr. Steve Merland
Caleb was out due to surgery for quite a while and got all of his work done within a few days of returning. He had a positive attitude throughout the process of missing school, making up the work and transitioning to our current work. He handled what could have been a really challenging situation responsibly like a true Carroll Patriot.
-Mr Steve. Merland
Favorite Restaurant:
Chick-fil-a
Favorite Movie:
Gone in 60 Seconds
Who would play you in a movie?
David Spade
Place you'd love to travel:
West Virginia
Activities you participate in:
I'm a member of the Cross Country and Track & Field teams.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
The atmosphere and the other students
What should school “do” for you?
School should provide a social and educational foundation.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
A lesson I learned was to do stuff in small increments. I learned this due to me being out for 2-3 weeks because of a surgery I had.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
To not have to worry about budgeting my money. I want to be very financially stable and independent at a young age.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to work on cars and trucks and hang out with my friends.
Student of the Week Brooklynn Newton '26: October 20, 2023
Brooklynn Newton ‘26, St. Mary’s House, with Mrs. Acacia Morrell and Ms. Emily Fogus
Brooke is in my family room, and she is exhibiting leadership traits, keeping her grades up, and all in all has really grown as a student and leader this year.
-Mrs. Acacia Morrell
Brooke has been a rock star student this year! She has shown so much growth in both her academic and athletic abilities. She is always asking ‘what else?’ , whether that be what else can she help with, what else is there for her to learn, or what else can she get involved in. Brooke is an excellent example of what a well rounded, responsible student should be.
-Ms. Emily Fogus
Favorite Restaurant:
Roosters
Favorite Movie:
The Nun
Who would play you in a movie?
Taissa Farmiga
Place you'd love to travel:
Texas
Activities you participate in:
I'm a member of the wrestling team.
What's your favorite part about being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a Carroll student is that everyone is nice and that I get to do things that I could not do at my previous school.
What should school “do” for you?
School should provide you with the best education possible.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
To tell myself that I can do something instead of put myself down because it's hard on the first try.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
I want to be a veterinarian.
How do you like spending your free time?
I spend my free time wrestling or hanging out with family and friends.
Student of the Week Matthew Rodgers '26: September 21, 2023
Matthew Rodgers '26, Baltimore House and St. Helen School alumnus, with Mrs. Katie Nielsen
Matthew has been so helpful in Family Room this year. He has taken initiative to help our incoming freshmen and our three transfer students log in to view their grades and has offered to help them on academic days with their work. He's been very inclusive and welcoming in our family even as a sophomore. We're so happy to have him in our family, and his efforts to welcome others into our family are greatly appreciated.
-Mrs. Katie Nielsen
Favorite restaurant:
BJ's Brewhouse
Favorite movie:
The Blindside
Place I want to visit:
Canada
The Actor who would Play me in a movie is:
Ryan Reynolds
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
I love the extracurricular activities that the school offers.
What should school “do” for you?
School should provide a safe place for you to learn and be comfortable in the classroom.
What's a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
If you make a mistake, forgive yourself before you ask others for forgiveness.
What's your biggest dream in life?
I want to play college football.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I like to watch or play football.
Sophia Sassenberg '26: Student of the Week February 17, 2023
Sophia Sassenberg '26, Gonzaga House, with Mr. Cody Byrd
The Archbishop Carroll Profile of a Patriot states, "A Patriot knows curiosity and enthusiasm can only enlarge the scope of the mind." Sophia Sassenberg brings the best of these qualities into every classroom she enters. Sophia is kind and respectful and has shown a fun and inquisitive approach to education during her freshman year. Sophia came to Carroll as a stand-out performer in the band, and through her curiosity and enthusiasm, she has elevated herself as a true stand-out Patriot.
-My. Cody Byrd
What activities do you participate in?
I do Marching Band, Communications for Freshman Class Council, Spanish Club, Pep Band, and Balloon Club.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is the experience. I am able to meet new people all the time, I have made great friends, and enjoy all of my classes. I have learned so much already, and I am so glad I have the opportunity to attend Carroll for my high school experience.
What should school “do” for you?
I believe that school should prepare me for my future and further education. So far, I believe that Carroll is doing exactly that.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
An obstacle I overcame was my fear of social interactions. Before sixth grade, I was one of the quietest, most reserved kids you would ever meet. I was scared of making mistakes or being made fun of, so I just stayed quiet. Then in sixth grade, I became friends with the people that made me who I am now. Making new friends brought me out of my shell, and I am so thankful for all of the people who have come to know and love me, especially the people who knew me before I became who I am. This experience taught me that you shouldn't worry about what other people think of you, you just need to find the right group of people who love and support you no matter what.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
To lead a successful life.
How do you like spending your free time?
In my free time, I play the clarinet, hang out with my sister, listen to music, watch Netflix, pet my cat, Angler, and learn new instruments.
Sam Brun '26, Student of the Week January 17, 2023
Sam Brun, 26, Trinity House, with Mrs. Diane (McNelly) Keller '83
Sam Brun is a hard working student in class and contributes regularly to class discussions. I have him in a class with Sophomores and Juniors, and he is the only Freshman. This does not intimidate him in any way. He is also able to handle situations that could make lead to tension with other students with grace and patience.
-Mrs. Diane (McNelly) Keller '83
What activities do you participate in?
I am a part of the Marching Band, and I play club and high school volleyball.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a student at Carroll is the sense of community and belonging that Carroll is so great at providing for each and every student.
What should school “do” for you?
For me, school should allow everyone to become the best versions of themselves, and allow them to learn how to overcome obstacles in life.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
A lesson that I’ve learned is that nothing in life is served to you on a silver platter. If you want to be successful in life, taking the first step to becoming great will open your eyes to so many possibilities.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to become successful in whatever field I choose to pursue but with that comes acknowledging why you became successful. You need to realize that God gave you the strengths and skills to become successful. That is my true dream in life, which is to praise God by using my strengths and skills to become the best version of myself.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to spend my free time spending time with friends and family, playing volleyball, and the occasional 3 a.m. Minecraft sessions with my older brothers.
Student of the Week Jayd Brown '26: December 2, 2022
Jayd Brown ‘26, St. Mary’s House, with Mrs. Laura Wright
Jayd’s grades have improved dramatically through the semester. She is also focused on her work, asks questions when she needs help, and checks with me when she misses class. I am so impressed with her work ethic and positive attitude. She is also very respectful and a pleasure to have in class!
-Mrs. Laura Wright
What activities do you participate in?
Outside of school I like to play basketball mostly, some soccer and do anything with my family, from a party, game, or vacation.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
Having access to all the education and books I need to grow my knowledge and better it. That is my favorite part of being a Carroll student.
What should school “do” for you?
School should do no more than what it already does, as school already helps me to better my knowledge and helps me have a better set up for life and my future.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
I learned to not stress and try to find a solution, and if you ask God for help, he'll give it to you.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
Being able to give my loved ones any and everything they want so they'll have little to no worries.
How do you like spending your free time?
I like to spend time with my younger brother and play with him, doing whatever he wants, mostly.
Student of the Week Roberto Coronel Ramirez '26: November 2, 2022
Roberto Coronel Ramirez '26, Mercy House, with Dr. Cody Smith
Roberto has been very engaged and works hard inside and outside of the classroom. While he prefers to work alone, I have noticed that he is willing to get outside of his comfort zone and work with his classmates during group activities. He is always one of the first students to attempt to answer questions and will ask questions when he needs assistance. While these are all great qualities in a student, the thing that I think puts him over the edge is at the end of class, he will go around the classroom and put up any chair that doesn't get put up by other students before he leaves for the day.
-Dr. Cody Smith
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in soccer.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
The teachers at Carroll are what I like the most.
What should school “do” for you?
School should help me with what I need to achieve my goals.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
Never giving up is very important.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
Leading a happy life.
How do you like spending your free time?
Playing soccer with my friends.
Student of the Week Caleb Weitz '26: October 7, 2022
Caleb is a freshman this year, but due to his prior involvement in the Marching Patriots, he already possesses tremendous leadership skills. He's punctual beyond expectation and always stays around to help organize equipment. Caleb leads with a smile and encourages new members to be their best.
-Mr. Carl Soucek
Caleb Weitz '26, Trinity House, with Mr. Carl Soucek
What activities do you participate in?
I participate in Marching Band, Drama Club, Stage Crew, and Mass Choir. I also plan to run for Student Council.
What's your favorite part of being a student at Carroll?
My favorite part of being a Carroll student is all of the people there are so kind and helpful. I feel very comfortable with the Carroll family, and Carroll feels like a second home to me.
What should school “do” for you?
I believe that the purpose of school is to prepare me for college and all of the obstacles that I have ahead of me. Carroll is a great school and so far I am confident that Carroll is achieving just that.
What’s a lesson you learned when you overcame a difficult obstacle?
One thing that I have learned from being a Carroll student is how to deal with time management. I have to balance activities with schoolwork. Being a section leader in Marching Band, participating in Drama Club, finishing homework, and all of the other things that I do is tough to achieve. I have learned to work it out and still achieve my goals.
What’s your biggest dream in life?
My biggest dream in life is to get good grades, go to college to get a good job, and stay happy through it all.
How do you like spending your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy playing board games, watching movies, playing soccer, spending time outside, and playing music.