WHAT: The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will honor six remarkable Catholic school graduates with the 2009 Distinguished Graduate Award for their professional and personal accomplishments on Friday, January 30, 2009 at 6 p.m. in the Crystal Tea Room, John Wanamaker Building. Also known as the Archdiocesan Hall of Fame, the Distinguished Graduate Awards have a grand tradition of honoring Catholic school alumni who have not only achieved professional success in their chosen field but also have demonstrated a commitment to living their lives by the Gospel Values that guide and define Catholic education in the Archdiocese. Also expected to attend are Mayor Michael A. Nutter, Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey and Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers.

The six individuals being inducted into the Archdiocesan Hall of Fame are:

Joseph A. Fitzmyer, S.J. - Professor Emeritus, Department of Biblical Studies, Catholic University of America
St. Hugh of Cluny Parish School - 1934; St. Joseph's Preparatory School - 1938

Dennis M. O'Brien - Former Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Our Lady of Calvary Parish School - 1966; Archbishop Ryan High School - 1970

Mary Lou Quinlan -Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Just Ask a Woman
St. Helena Parish School, Philadelphia - 1967; Cardinal Dougherty High School - 1971

Ellen Hanway & H. Edward Hanway, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, CIGNA Corporation
Ellen M. Hanway: Nativity B.V.M. Parish School, Media - 1965; Notre Dame High School, Moylan - 1969
H. Edward Hanway: Nativity B.V.M. Parish School, Media - 1966; Cardinal O'Hara High School - 1970

Sergeant Patrick McDonald - Philadelphia Police Officer (posthumously)
Christ the King Parish School - 1992; Archbishop Ryan High School - 1996
Representing all those who dedicate their lives to making Philadelphia a better place to live.

WHEN/WHERE: Friday, January 30, 2009, 6 p.m. The Crystal Tea Room - Wanamaker Building, Broad and Juniper Streets, Philadelphia

WHO:
- The five honorees and the family of the late Sergeant Patrick McDonald
- Four Auxiliary Bishops of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia

KEY VISUALS:
- A video highlighting the honorees and their accomplishments
- Bishop Joseph P. McFadden will bestow the awards upon the honorees

Contact
Meredith Wilson
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747