Dear Catholic Central Community,

I am thrilled to share an incredible announcement, one that addresses one of the greatest challenges facing both Catholic schools and young families. In recent decades, tuition costs have risen far faster than family incomes, putting Catholic high school education out of reach for many faithful families.

Today, we introduce the Catholic Promise, a bold 10-year commitment to ensure Catholic Central is an affordable option for Catholic families. The Catholic Promise is made possible by the generous philanthropy of alumni couple Dan ‘84 and Sherry ‘84 Bowen.

Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, qualifying Catholic families will see annual tuition at Catholic Central reduced from about $13,000 to $6,000, indexed annually for inflation. Families registered and in good standing at a parish in the Diocese of Grand Rapids may apply by submitting a statement of household income. If their income is less than $300,000, the Catholic Promise Fund covers every dollar of tuition beyond the $6,000 family contribution.

The Catholic Promise is not only a blessing to individual families, but also an investment in the spiritual and social fabric of West Michigan. It is designed to ensure that future generations of students have access to and benefit from Catholic Central’s rich tradition of excellence.

“I sincerely thank Dan and Sherry Bowen for their tremendous gift to Catholic education in the Diocese of Grand Rapids,” said Bishop David J. Walkowiak. “The Bowen’s gift powerfully advances our efforts to make a Catholic school education attainable for families who desire it, which has been a priority of mine over the past decade. It is my fervent hope and prayer that their generosity will inspire others to step forward in support of our Catholic schools.”

We rejoice in what the Holy Spirit is stirring in our community; we give thanks to God for the Bowen’s extraordinary generosity; and we invite all to join us in celebrating this announcement.

Learn more and see if your family qualifies at catholicpromise.org.

Mary, Mother of the Church, pray for us!

Yours in Christ,

Greg Deja

President