AUBURN — This summer Saint Dominic Academy was challenged by alumnus Don Dion, Class of 1972, to raise $150,00 toward the annual scholarship fund. Dion pledged to match donations up to $75,000 in what was known as the Dion Scholarship Challenge.

On Friday, Aug. 14, two donors, the St. Dom’s Alumni Association along with Del and Pat Gendron, made significant contributions to the challenge that helped St. Dom’s exceed the $75,000 target, for a total of $150,000 toward scholarships.

“I saw the Dion Challenge as a way to bring an already tight-knit community even closer. This goal has clearly been achieved, thanks to all of your wonderful efforts,” said Dion.

The challenge began mid-July and originally ended Aug. 5. Dion, along with the entire St. Dom’s staff, was overwhelmed with the participation from parents, alumni, community members and local businesses. The opportunity to increase scholarship funds was extended to Aug. 15.

Extensive efforts were made to reach out to all those affiliated with St. Dom’s, and these efforts were met by charitable contributions.

“I am both impressed and touched by our St. Dom’s family. Everyone involved pulled out all stops that led to a successful challenge in five short weeks of summer, no less,” said St. Dom’s President Donald Fournier.

The scholarship funds are awarded annually to deserving St. Dom’s families who desire a first-class education.

St. Dom’s will host a celebratory reception in honor of all the donors and volunteers who contributed to the success.