2026 Paul G. Zurkowski Founder's Award
Jeanne Donatelli
Jeanne has dedicated 35 years to education, including 26 years at St. Jude Regional Catholic School, where she has been blessed to help students grow in faith, unity, and educational excellence. For the last five years, Jeanne served as Principal of St. Jude Regional Catholic School, leading with the belief that every child is a gift from God, created to be a saint, and that schools thrive when faith, unity, and educational excellence come together. During her time at St. Jude, she was also blessed to work alongside alumni who returned to ensure that the next generation receives the very best Catholic education.
When she is not at school, her greatest joy is her family. Jim and Jeanne have been happily married for 34 years, and they are the proud parents of two wonderful children, both happily married. Their greatest blessings now include two beautiful granddaughters, who bring endless joy to their lives.
Jeanne has always believed that giving back to the community is just as important as educating the next generation. For five years, she has proudly served on the Catholic Business Network (CBN) Board as the Principal Liaison, helping strengthen the partnership between Catholic schools and the business community while supporting opportunities that benefit students and families.
Jeanne is deeply honored and humbled to receive the Paul G. Zurkowski Founder's Award. As she said, “I am truly grateful and blessed to be part of a community that continues to inspire others through faith, generosity, and service. I thank God for the many people He has placed in my life who have supported, encouraged, and inspired me throughout this journey.”
Past Paul G. Zurkowski Founder's Award Winners
2025: Jay Long 2024: Tim Tehan (posthumously): 2023: Julie Beavers: 2022: Lance Ford, 2021: Peter Hodgson , 2020: Mark Johannessen, 2019: Gerard McLoughlin, 2018: Rob Scanlon, 2017: Barbara Murphy Kromer, 2016: Msgr. John MacFarlane, 2015: Mark Gregory, 2014: Sue Palka, 2013: Michael Murray, 2012: William Gessner, 2011: Matthew Carroccio, 2010: John Treseler, 2009: Anita Segreti, 2008: Eileen Vaughan, 2007: Rob Smith, 2006: John Matteo, 2004: Kathleen Bovello, 2003: Nancy Bulloug.
