Written by McD

The Capital Campaign - Fulfilling the Promise

Bishop McDevitt High School announces a major capital campaign, Fulfilling the Promise, to help fund the much-anticipated 87-acre, $42 million new campus project which will replace the current 80-year-old high school. The new Bishop McDevitt High School will be a 175,000 square foot academic facility that will include a 1,200-seat auditorium, 120-seat Chapel, 1,000-seat gym, a state-of-the-art library, a performing arts center, and an athletic complex that will feature a first-class football stadium.

“Bishop McDevitt High School has had a tremendous impact on the lives of generations of students who have gone on to do great things in their communities,” said Sister Mary Anne Bednar, principal of Bishop McDevitt High School. “Through Fulfilling the Promise, our work begins to provide a new Bishop McDevitt High School that will ensure this tradition continues for future generations of Crusaders.”

Bishop McDevitt High School was founded in 1918 on North Street in Harrisburg. It moved to its current location on Market Street in 1930 and remains one of the oldest Central Pennsylvania high school buildings still in use.  The school will relocate from its current six-acre property to a new 87-acre campus only four miles away in Lower Paxton Township.  The new facility will include all the necessities and facilities to provide a world class educational center.  This includes space to continue and expand the academic program, full athletic facilities, and sufficient parking – all at a location that is central to the ten parishes that comprise and support the school, including easy access for students from the city of Harrisburg.

“I am humbled to be included in a community of talented, intelligent, and generous alumni,” said Angela Ortenzio, 1978 graduate and co-chair of Fulfilling the Promise. “Bishop McDevitt High School has played a vital role in setting us on a path of excellence.  This is a place we can call home.  Many of us are passionate about the experiences we've shared here.  It is an honor to work among you to ensure the future of a quality, Catholic education in the greater Harrisburg area for the benefit of future generations."

“Bishop McDevitt High School will always have a warm place in our hearts,” said Carmen Finestra, 1965 graduate, and co-chairman of Fulfilling the Promise.  “It gave us an excellent education, a value system that has defined our lives, and wonderful memories of good friends and dedicated, supportive teachers.”

Groundbreaking will take place when pledges for the Capital Campaign reach $16 million dollars.  Fund-raising efforts are continuing each day with solicitations to our alumni family and friends.  To make a donation to Fulfilling the Promise for Bishop McDevitt High School, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , IHM, Principal, or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Director of Advancement, (717) 236-7973.