ElevatEd Guest Lecture Program
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Illuminating Truth, Inspiring WonderAt St. Ann Classical Academy, our mission is to form faithful Catholic disciples and lifelong learners who pursue truth, goodness, and beauty in all things. As part of our commitment to a Catholic classical liberal arts education, we are pleased to introduce the ElevatEd Guest Lecture Program—a co-curricular initiative that brings scholars, artists, scientists, and professionals directly into our school community.
The ElevatEd Program allows us to partner with experts from various fields who offer our students an enriched experience of the subjects they study or fields in which they practice through a Catholic classical lens. In doing so, we unite academic rigor with real-world application, showing our students how the liberal arts prepare them not only to think well, but to live well.
Through this program, we “bring the field trip to us”—transforming our classrooms into places of encounter, dialogue, and discovery. These guest lectures deepen students’ sense of wonder, strengthen their understanding of the unity of knowledge, and offer living examples of faith and reason working together in the world.Why It Matters in a Catholic Classical School:
It reinforces the Catholic understanding of vocation by exposing students to professionals who live their faith through their work
It highlights the interconnectedness of all disciplines, rooted in the belief that truth is one and flows from God
It cultivates habits of attentiveness, gratitude, and humility, inviting students to receive the wisdom of others with open minds and hearts
From theologians and architects to physicians, poets, and artisans, our guests help students see the deeper meaning in their studies and inspire them to respond generously to God’s call in their own lives.
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Our guest lecturers:
Mr. Jim Kurzenberger – Living History Educator
Topic: Everyday Life of Revolutionary War Soldiers
Mr. Kurzenberger brought history to life through a dynamic, hands-on presentation. His display of authentic clothing, tools, and gear used by Revolutionary War soldiers captivated our students and deepened their appreciation for the human side of history. A highlight? When he humorously “pickpocketed” Mrs. Day to show what soldiers carried—a moment students won’t forget!
Raritan Fire Department – Community Safety EducatorsTopic: Fire Safety & Prevention for Lower School
In October, our Lower School was treated to a special visit from the Raritan Fire Department, who taught essential fire safety skills and gave students a hands-on look at the equipment and truck. This visit offered an opportunity to honor those who serve our community!
Mrs. Maria Woltornist – Guardian of the Missionary Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe
Topic: The Story and Miracles of Our Lady of Guadalupe
In a beautiful moment of faith and reverence, students welcomed the missionary image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, lovingly introduced by former St. Ann parent Maria Woltornist. Students learned about Our Lady’s miraculous apparition to St. Juan Diego and had the opportunity to write and place their own prayer intentions before her image.
This encounter helped students deepen their devotion, spiritual imagination, and understanding of Marian theology, reinforcing our identity as a school where faith is lived and loved.
Mr. Carl Ganz – Civic Engagement & the Supreme Court
Topic: Understanding the Role of the U.S. Supreme Court
Over three enrichment sessions, our 7th and 8th graders received a behind-the-scenes look at how the Supreme Court functions—directly from a school parent and expert in the field. Students explored how justices are appointed, what the Court is (and is not) empowered to do, and why landmark cases matter.
This series encouraged critical thinking, civic awareness, and moral reflection—core goals of a Catholic classical education that seeks to form students as both virtuous citizens and faithful Catholics.
Mr. Dick Madden – Knight of Columbus & Sacred Art Historian
Topic: The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament: A Living Theology of Art
Mr. Madden led our Upper School students through a visual and theological exploration of The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament, the grand masterpiece by Raphael and the replica that graces the sanctuary of St. Ann Church. Students learned how sacred art reflects theological truths, invites worship, and connects us to the Communion of Saints.
This powerful lecture united religion, history, and fine art—demonstrating the classical principle of the unity of truth and beauty in the service of God.➡️ Coming in 2025–2026: Mr. Madden returns to guide students through a detailed study of the stained glass windows of St. Ann Church, helping students see how light, color, and symbolism teach us eternal truths through sacred beauty, while also learning the stories of the Saints these beautiful windows depict.
➡️ Coming in 2025-2026:
Mr. Paul Soltis – Historian & Site Director, Old Dutch Parsonage
Topic: Architecture, Culture, and Independence
In preparation for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Mr. Soltis will join us to teach about the Old Dutch Parsonage, a treasured historical site in our region. His visit will connect art, architecture, faith, and the American founding—giving students a deeper understanding of how place, heritage, and civic identity shape the culture we inherit and must steward.
This lecture will integrate seamlessly with our curriculum in history, religion, and classical architecture, while igniting students’ sense of wonder!