Beloved Faculty Retire After Decades of Service

May 22, 2019

Donna Novey and Brother Michael Rivers are both retiring this year after decades of service to CDH. Their retirements were celebrated on May 23 alongside their family, friends, and fellow staff.

Novey has taught Band at CDH for 27 years. 

"Through music, you taught me the importance of preparation, patience, and perseverance," said Amy Brueggemann Petruck '02. "Your impact as a teacher has definitely contributed to developing future leaders. I would not be the confident woman I am today without your thoughtful encouragement."

Patricia Murray, Spanish teacher, spoke about her at the retirement celebration. "Donna leaves a legacy of thousands of music lovers who have gone on to touch thousands of lives. She has touched their musical side with her baton, their minds with her wisdom and their hearts with her love. She has taught all of us about discipline, hard work, reliability, responsibility, the importance of saying please and thank you, the love of chocolate, how to reach out to those who need a friend and how to love God and our dear neighbor without exception or distinction."

Brother Rivers has taught at CDH for 37 years.

He is a Learning Lab teacher, and earned a Distinguished Lasallian Educators Award in 2015 for touching the hearts and minds of his students, often leaving a lasting impression that makes a difference in the world.

Derek Williams '01 remembers him fondly. "Thank you for believing in me and always helping me achieve my goals. The amount of support you provided me during my CDH years have had a lasting impact on my professional life over the last 15 years. You helped me realize that I am capable of achievements if I work hard and put in the time and effort. I am truly grateful for what you have done for me and countless other students. Thank you for your service."

At the retirement ceremony, Learning Lab teacher Pat Norusis spoke about Brother Rivers' impact on the community over the years. "What warmth and feeling of home it is to have someone call you by name," she said. "It seems like quite a gift to remember names, yet Brother takes it on as a mission – to take a personal interest in you and to make a connection, not just with colleagues, staff, and students, but with parents, grandparents, siblings, and more. He builds connections, creates community, and sends the message - I care about you."

Both of these educators have made a difference for thousands of young people over the course of their careers. They will be missed dearly at CDH, and we wish them both a wonderful retirement!