The Monsignor Michael F. Sexton Continuing Education Endowment supports the ongoing growth and professional excellence of educators in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Birmingham. Each year, this endowment provides scholarships to professional staff members who wish to pursue advanced degrees or additional certifications to strengthen their service to diocesan Catholic school communities.

Applicants are invited to submit materials annually, and awards are determined by a scholarship review committee. The scholarships may cover up to 80% of tuition costs, easing the financial burden for educators who seek to deepen their skills and expand their impact in the classroom.

The 2025 Monsignor Michael F. Sexton Continuing Education Scholarship was awarded to Julie Baldwin, director of the CARES program at Holy Spirit Regional Catholic School in Huntsville. Baldwin provides instructional support to students in the school’s special education program and is pursuing a Master of Education in Special Education at the University of North Alabama. Her award was formally recognized at the Catholic Schools Office’s annual Formation Day on Sept. 12 and again during a presentation by Superintendent Margaret Dubose on Nov. 3.

Matthew Ogonowski, one of the 2024 recipients, continues his studies toward a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership at the University of Montevallo, further preparing to serve as a future school leader in our diocese.

Previous scholarship recipients, Brittany Saibini, Courtney Magee, and Vicki Jordan, have completed their degree programs and now continue to make an even greater difference in their school communities.

Through the generosity of donors to the Monsignor Michael F. Sexton Continuing Education Endowment, educators across the diocese are empowered to grow as teachers and leaders, enriching the lives of students and strengthening the mission of Catholic education in Alabama.

To support the Monsignor Michael F. Sexton Continuing Education Endowment, please visit https://bhmdiocese.org/monsignor-sexton-endowment.