Maroon & Gray Soirée

Kathy Ruginis has spent a lifetime living and advancing the mission of Bishop Stang High School. Her 38 years of dedicated service stand as a powerful testament to faith-filled leadership, compassionate mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to Catholic education.

Throughout her distinguished career at Bishop Stang, Kathy served in numerous roles, including teacher, school counselor, Guidance Director, Head of the Counseling Department, Assistant Principal of Academics, club advisor, and co-creator and leader of the FIAT service program. In every position she held, Kathy was guided by a singular purpose: to ensure that Bishop Stang remained true to its mission and the charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame. She worked tirelessly—often the last to leave the building late into the evening—always willing to help anyone in any way she could. She led not by title, but by example, compassion, and quiet strength.

Kathy’s impact extended far beyond academics. She was a mentor not only to students but also to faculty and staff, providing thoughtful guidance and steadfast support. One of her most enduring contributions was her role in co-founding Joseph’s Apprentice, a transformative service program in which students, faculty, administrators, and parents spent much of April vacation living at the school and serving the greater New Bedford area. Participants worked in soup kitchens, repaired homes, supported the Audubon Society, and served countless community needs. The program required extensive planning, organization, and fundraising, and it made a profound and lasting difference in the lives of all involved. The Mr. Stang fundraiser was originally created to support this important ministry, which later evolved into the FIAT program that continues today.

An Oblate of St. Benedict, Kathy’s life beautifully reflects the Benedictine motto Ora et Labora—“Pray and Work”—as she seamlessly integrates prayer, service, and community into all aspects of her life. Her ministry has included prison outreach, parish leadership, and international mission trips to Nicaragua and Jamaica. She continues to “make known the goodness of God” as Chair and President of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel School Board in Bristol, Rhode Island, through leadership roles at St. Michael’s School in Fall River, and through active service in her parish as a Eucharistic minister.

Kathy’s influence is deeply personal to many. She inspired future educators and counselors, including those who credit her with shaping their own vocational paths through mentorship and example. Her legacy is not measured only in programs created or titles held, but in the countless lives she touched through kindness, faith, and unwavering dedication.

Kathy Ruginis’s induction into the Bishop Stang High School Hall of Honors celebrates a woman who dedicated her entire career—and continues to dedicate her life—to the ministry of Catholic education, ensuring that Bishop Stang remains rooted in its mission for generations to come.

Roger Lacoste’s legacy at Bishop Stang High School is one defined by excellence, leadership, and lifelong dedication. As a standout running back for the Spartans, Lacoste helped set the standard for success during one of the most memorable seasons in school history.

During the 1964 football season, Roger emerged as one of the premier players in the state. He rushed for more than 1,000 yards and was named to the All-State Team, while also earning All-American Honorable Mention recognition. Twice selected as the Standard-Times Player of the Week, Roger delivered one of the most remarkable performances in program history when he ran for 257 yards against rival Bishop Feehan. His efforts were instrumental in leading the Spartans to the Class C State Championship, capping an undefeated and untied season (8-0-0) under his leadership. 

Following his historic high school career, Roger continued his commitment to Catholic education and football by attending the College of the Holy Cross. Playing under his Bishop Stang head coach, Carlin Lynch, he contributed to the Crusaders as both a fullback and linebacker, further demonstrating his versatility and toughness on the field.

Roger’s dedication and discipline extended beyond athletics. He went on to attend Penn Dental School, completed his residency at Boston University, and ultimately returned to the South Coast, where he served the community for decades as a respected endodontist. His professional life reflected the same values that defined his playing days—hard work, integrity, and service to others.

A loyal ambassador for Bishop Stang High School, Roger has remained a steadfast supporter of the school throughout the years. His deep connection to Stang continues through his family, with his children and three of his grandchildren proudly attending the school.

Roger Lacoste’s induction into the Bishop Stang High School Hall of Fame celebrates not only an exceptional athlete but also a devoted alumnus whose impact has spanned generations.

Dan Ciullo’s athletic career is defined by versatility, leadership, and excellence across multiple sports and levels of competition. A standout competitor from his earliest years through college, Dan consistently set the standard for performance, commitment, and team-first leadership.

At the high school level, Dan was a four-year starter in football, excelling at safety, running back, and taking on the quarterback role during his senior season, where he was named team captain. He was instrumental in leading Stang in knocking out Dartmouth high 6-0 and derailing their Super Bowl chances. His impact on the field earned him New Bedford Standard-Times All-Scholastic honors during both his junior and senior years.

Dan was an outstanding multi-sport athlete, excelling in football, baseball, and track. He was a four-year starter in football and a three-year starting outfielder for the Bishop Stang High School baseball team, where his senior-year performance earned him the Fall River Herald News All-Scholastic honors. In recognition of his athletic versatility, he was also voted “Most Athletic” by his classmates during his senior year.

Continuing his athletic journey at Framingham State College, Dan distinguished himself as a rare two-sport standout. On the baseball field, he was a two-year starting center fielder, demonstrating consistency and high-level play. On the football field, Dan became one of the most accomplished defensive players in school history. He was a three-year starter at safety, served as team captain during his senior year, and set the Framingham State school record with 17 career interceptions. 

Dan’s collegiate achievements include being named First Team All–New England Football Conference in both his junior and senior seasons and earning Division III All-American honors from the Sports Information Directors of America during his senior year. His lasting impact on the Framingham State athletic program was cemented when he became a Charter Member of the Framingham State College Athletic Hall of Fame.

Dan went on to graduate from Framingham State College and got his master’s degree in business at Bryant University.  He currently works at Energy New England in Foxborough, MA. 

Through sustained excellence, leadership, and record-setting performance, Dan Ciullo represents the very best qualities celebrated by the Bishop Stang Hall of Fame. His induction honors not only his individual achievements but also the legacy he leaves for future athletes to follow.