The Knight's Roundtable
April 2021 v8
Dear Families
DEU One in Christ Retreat
On March 27th and 28th, the DEU had it’s very first retreat! This month, we are taking time to highlight what happened, who was there, and what was taken away from the retreat itself. Read the rest of the newsletter to find out more!
Student testimony by Gabby Conklin
Our Guest Speaker, Tevin Lucas
Small Group Discussions
Some of the students and staff who attended the retreat wanted to share their experience, read about them here!
This year, I had the privilege to give a student testimony at the retreat. This was one of the best experiences I have had at O’Connell and I was so happy to share my story with the students and staff who attended. The retreat was also a great opportunity to meet so many people who I have never talked to before. Not only could I meet them in a familiar environment, but we were able to talk about many important issues. Overall, it was an amazing experience and look forward to attending in the next couple of years. - Gabby Conklin, Reporter, ‘23
“I had an amazing time at the retreat! It was a great way to spend time with friends and teachers that I love, while also tackling important topics regarding diversity, equity, and unity. I especially loved Brother Mickey’s presentation and words. It was amazing to see religious figures depicted as POC. I am super sad that I won’t be able to attend next year since I’m graduating, but I would definitely recommend the retreat for those who are able to attend next year!” - An-An Nguyen, Reporter ‘21
“At the DEU One in Christ Retreat I was given the space to listen to my fellow classmates. It was such an amazing opportunity to make new friends and grow in previous relationships. After the retreat, I feel closer to my peers and I am inspired to make change in my own community.” - Grace Freitas ‘22
“The Unity Retreat completely exceeded my expectations. I was so inspired by the students, and my favorite part of the retreat was sitting peacefully in the courtyard, reading Langston Hughes with my group. I think there's a lot of dialogue to be brought back to our school community, and I'm optimistic for a positive change at O'Connell.” - Mr. Tabbara
"By far the best retreat I’ve ever had. I went in there knowing the DEU officers and a couple of my friends who came. I left with almost 20 new friends all hoping and ready to fight for change.” - Ezana Yacob, Secretary ‘21
“The Diversity, Equity, & Unity Retreat is an O’Connell experience I am forever thankful for. From the small group discussions to the presentations by our speakers were able to make an impact on me and my peers.” - Nicole Carnero, Media Coordinator ‘21
“The DEU retreat taught me how to uplift my community. It really showed me how we can all be one in Christ.” - Austin Mosley, President ‘21
"I am so proud to have been a part of the inaugural DEU retreat. It was eye-opening, thought-provoking, inspirational. It is imperative that we continue these important conversations and reflections as we move forward to unity our DJO community. I was very impressed with the students' bravery to share and inspired by their willingness to 'be the change'". - Ms. Leipold
Movie of the Month: Selena 1997
The movie Selena offers an insight to the hispanic music industry and her life as successful singer. Find the description below:
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The month of April is international heritage month. In light of this theme, we would like to include some of the clubs that O’Connell offers that not only embraces but also educates on the many cultures of the world.
African American Heritage and Culture Club
Asian American Student Association
French Club
Hispanic Heritage Club
Italian American Club
Salsa Club
Knightlife Step Team
If you are interested in joining one of these clubs, there is more information on the Bishop O’Connell Website!
Did you miss the last newsletters?
September: https://www.smore.com/41kvb-the-knights-roundtable
October: https://www.smore.com/109cs-the-knight-s-roundtable
November: https://www.smore.com/dfub1
January: https://www.smore.com/9af4q
February: https://www.smore.com/6ta8m
Care to Share, We'd love to hear from you!
Email: bdavis@bishopoconnell.org
Website: bishopoconnell.org
Location: 6600 Little Falls Road, Arlington, VA, USA
Phone: 7032371400