By Katie Vasquez
When you call Good Shepherd Catholic Academy, Marie Delgaizo is the voice on the other end. She started as an administrative assistant at the Catholic school in 1992.
“You know, we start a day with prayer, we end the day with prayer and all that happens in between,” Delgaizo said. “It’s just a big part of how I live my life as well.”
“I wasn’t looking for anything big time,” Delgaizo said. “I worked on Wall Street from high school to about seven years. Then, I started a family. And then from there, I was, you know, stay-home, mom, luckily. And then it was time, you know, midlife area, and yeah, it’s time to go back.”
Now, it’s been three decades of watching students grow up like Emerson Raimundi, an 8th grader at the school.
“Every family needs a sturdy foundation, and for us, that’s Marie,” Raimundi said. “She’s an amazing secretary. And even through the most difficult situations, she’s been there for us through thick and thin.”
That’s why the school principal decided to surprise Delgaizo on her 75th birthday.
“She had no idea what was happening, and she was completely overwhelmed, a little nervous at first, I think,” Timothy Dillon, Principal of Good Shepherd Catholic Academy, said. “But, you know, just to see the amount of love that everyone here has for her.”
The singing wasn’t the only surprise. A statue of Jesus with the image of the Divine Mercy was dedicated to the hard worker. A gift that she hopes others will find the same comfort in.
“Not that I am drawing attention, but I hope those who see me stop there that maybe will just take a look at the statue and just offer up a word to Jesus.”
She has no plans to retire anytime soon.
“I just have the drive and. And being around here and the young kids, you’re forever young,” said Delgaizo.
For more than 30 years, one woman has helped shape young Catholics in Marine Park. Marie
Delgaizo, or as she’s usually known, “Miss Marie,” has been the face of the main office at Good Shepherd Catholic Academy.