Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for The Damon Barnes Center for Academic Excellence at the Monsignor Victor Pavis Library

Through the extraordinary generosity of Don Grasso, Cardinal Hayes High School is proud to announce the creation of The Damon Barnes Center for Academic Excellence, located within the Monsignor Victor Pavis Library. This transformative space will serve as a hub for learning, curiosity, and academic growth — providing Hayesmen with a welcoming environment to study, collaborate, explore new ideas, and expand their academic horizons.

Inspired by Damon Barnes ’20 and his remarkable academic journey at Cardinal Hayes — culminating in his graduation from Cornell University this year — the Center stands as a testament to what is possible when opportunity meets determination. Damon’s dedication, resilience, and pursuit of excellence embody the very mission of Hayes, and this Center ensures that future generations of Hayesmen will have the resources, support, and inspiration to follow in his footsteps. Through Don Grasso’s generosity, the Damon Barnes Center for Academic Excellence will empower Hayesmen to dream bigger, aim higher, and achieve more.