Every spring, as graduation nears and the senior class prepares to take its final steps through the halls of Catholic Central, three young men are recognized not just for what they’ve accomplished, but for who they’ve become. The Whelan, Ranalletti, and Dillon Awards, known as the "Big 3," represent what it means to be a CC man: a scholar-athlete, a man of Christian character, and a dedicated student shaped by Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge.

These awards span generations, uniting alumni through the shared values they reflect and the legacy they carry forward. Here, we celebrate each award’s meaning and history, and, in the words of those who received them, the lifelong impact of being named a Big 3 Award Winner.

Fr. James H. Whelan Award – Scholar‑Athlete & Christian Gentleman

The oldest of the three, the Whelan Award was established in 1950 to honor Rev. James H. Whelan, C.S.B., Catholic Central’s fourth principal. It is awarded annually to a senior who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, athletic success, and is recognized by both faculty and peers as a true Christian gentleman. Over the decades, this award has become a symbol of well-rounded excellence, with recipients going on to achieve success in higher education, leadership, and service.

Mike Schimmel ‘69:

My recollection of the evening my classmates awarded me the Whelan evokes such unique nostalgia. So remarkable, 56 years on — practically a lifetime later — that the memory generates a kaleidoscope of youthful faces in my aging brain. Were we really that young and strong, as we prepared to launch into great adventures? Ah, youth! Thanks, CC, for granting me a lovely indulgence through this testimonial!

Joe Urso ‘84:

When I entered Catholic Central in the fall of 1980 as a naïve, insecure 13-year-old, I never imagined receiving an honor like the Whelan Award. However, through hard work, perseverance, humility and with the guidance of my parents, coaches, teachers and Basilian Fathers, I grew into the best version of myself. Coaches like Mike Rodriguez and Tom Mach were more than mentors; they were life-changing influences who believed in me and pushed me beyond what I thought possible. Catholic Central reinforced the values I was raised with: work hard, treat people the way you like to be treated, and give it your all.

Ed Turek ‘85:

Still the most meaningful award I’ve ever received—especially because it was voted on by my classmates. An even prouder moment came 29 years later when my son AJ received the same honor.

Jake Marmul ‘07:

When I found out my classmates had selected me for the Whelan Award, I remember feeling overwhelmed. It was humbling, and truthfully, I wasn’t sure I deserved it. Years later, the magnitude of what it meant hit me as I watched my 3 and 5-year-old daughters stop in the hallway, point to my photo, and light up. Someday, I hope their kids might do the same - and that it might add a little validity to my “back in the day” stories.

Joe Suhajda '93:

Everything you need in life, Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge, you learn at CC. No one does it alone. It didn't get any better on Breakfast Drive.

A.J. Turek ‘14: 

Growing up, my love for Catholic Central was something I inherited — it was just part of me. But during my four years there, that love grew because of the incredible people I was fortunate to meet. I’m forever honored that my peers selected me as a Whelan Award recipient, and deeply humbled to share that legacy with so many remarkable men — especially one: my father.  

Jaden Pydyn ‘25:

Catholic Central proudly announces Jaden Pydyn ‘25 as the recipient of the 2025 Fr. James H. Whelan Award, one of the school's highest honors. A standout student-athlete, Pydyn is a multi-year varsity letter winner and team captain in both football and baseball. He has earned the respect of his coaches, teammates, and peers not only through his performance on the field but through his exceptional character and leadership. 

Off the field, Pydyn has maintained an impressive 3.9 GPA, exemplifying academic excellence alongside his athletic achievements. This fall, Pydyn will take the next step in his journey at the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he will continue to compete in both football and baseball while preparing to serve as an officer in the U.S. Army.

Fr. Daniel L. Dillon Award – Academic Excellence (Highest GPA)

Founded in 1970 by Fr. Raymond Paramo, CSB, and named to honor Rev. Daniel Dillon, CSB, CC’s first principal and advocate for academic dedication, this award is presented to the graduate with the highest cumulative GPA.

Mike McGarry '78:

Catholic Central's commitment to recognizing academic performance along with athletic success has produced an extraordinary culture that has helped make CC one of the preeminent high schools, not just in the State of Michigan, but across the country.

Paul Switaj ‘02:

My appreciation of my Catholic Central education has only deepened over the last 20 years of my adult life. As a father, husband, and surgeon, I now truly understand that the foundation of my family, faith, and professional life started in the hallways of Breakfast Drive! Being pushed by 20 other National Merit Semi-Finalists in my class certainly didn’t hurt either!

A.J. Hong-Huber ‘06:

Catholic Central distilled in me and my classmates the importance of Goodness, Discipline, and Knowledge. That message guided me to where I am now, helping lead a nonprofit that protects the legal rights and financial health of people facing abusive debt collection practices. I am grateful for the many amazing teachers and coaches at CC who helped shape who I am now.

Logan Whitehead ‘13:

The Dillon Award may be an individual honor, but it was only possible because of the culture and values that surrounded me at CC. The school’s commitment to goodness, discipline, and knowledge, along with the incredible support I received from teachers, created the foundation for achievement. That environment pushed me to aim high and work hard while also reminding me that success is rarely a solo effort.

Matthew Kozma ‘21:

The education I received and the friendships I formed while attending CC were par to none. CC developed me as a man and set me up for success in my college experience, my career, and my relationships.

Andrew Kil ‘23:

Being a Dillon Award recipient was and will forever be a humbling experience. Even as a freshman, I recognized that CC's academic culture was unmatched with its rich history and high standards, giving me something to strive for. Looking to the future, I have no doubt future graduating classes will exceed us and further CC's legacy of scholastic excellence.

Jarod Dufield ‘25:

Catholic Central is proud to present the Dillon Award, one of the school’s prestigious "Big Three" senior honors, to Jarod Dufield ‘25. Jarod earned this honor with an incredible 4.969 GPA and will go on to study Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan. 

During his time at CC, he made a lasting impact through his involvement in DECA, HOSA, and as an officer of the National Honor Society (SHS). He also generously gave his time volunteering at Ascension Providence Hospital, reflecting the spirit of service that defines a true Shamrock.

Fr. Richard A. Ranalletti Award – Outstanding Christian Character

Established in 2016 in honor of Rev. Richard A. Ranalletti, CSB (Catholic Central's 18th principal, 2000–2010 and second president, 2010–2012), this award recognizes the graduating senior who exemplifies Christian values through daily life at CC.

Voted on by peers and presented at commencement, it honors a student whose character, faith, and integrity most reflect the spirit of the school community.

Matt Higgins ‘16:

Attending CC helped shape who I am. Getting involved in many extracurriculars and in the community gave me great experiences, valuable lessons, and lasting friendships. As a husband and father, I now live each day striving to reflect Christ, something CC deeply instilled in me.

Nicholas P. Gessler ‘17:

I am so grateful to have gotten to go to CC. Outstanding learning, making lifelong friendships, and becoming a person of character and peace are the cornerstones of a CC education. Thank you so much, CC.

Caleb White ‘20:

Being chosen by my peers as the recipient of the Ranalletti Award meant a lot to me because Catholic Central played such a huge role in my service to the community. My confidence to take on larger service projects came from the support that I received from my CC brothers and the staff. To this day, I get phone calls from the school asking how they can help. For me, The Ranalletti Award truly goes to the entire school. I was simply the contractor of their good works.

Finnian McLenaghan ‘23: 

Right off the bat, I'd say CC aims to instill in all its young men the drive to become the best version of themselves. This fosters a culture and environment that nurtures confidence and a commitment to excellence.

David Kibbey ‘24:

Service is at the heart of the Catholic Central education and our place as Christian men in society. It was an honor to live out that tenant of both my faith and education during my time at Catholic Central.

Matthew Haarala ‘25:

Matthew Haarala ‘25 was awarded this year’s Ranalletti Award by his classmates and the committee due to his outstanding Christian leadership and values. Matthew was the rector of the fall Kairos Retreat, helping to bring other young men closer to Christ and to each other. He was a true inspiration to his fellow students and the community at large. 

Matthew served over 200 hours in volunteer work to our local and school communities, including serving a wide range of agencies such as Blight Busters, Miracle League, and Alternatives for Women. Within the school community, Matthew tutored many of his CC brothers in the Study Hall program, and he devoted many hours within the various activities sponsored by our Student Government. 

The Whelan, Ranalletti, and Dillon Awards each reflect a specific aspect of what Catholic Central asks of its students: to lead with integrity, to serve with faith, and to pursue excellence in all areas of life. These awards honor not just the accomplishments of individual students, but the values that shape the Catholic Central experience.