Message from Ray Heilmann

May 2011

Dear Alumni,

I would be hard pressed to list all the "great things" of this school year. The letter from the Principal to Alumni is supposed to be fairly short. That would be impossible considering all the accomplishments in the areas of fine arts, academics, service, spiritual formation, leadership opportunities, and athletics. Just focusing on the Graduating Class of 2011 and viewing the scholarships earned will give you an idea of the talent in our school. Again, things happen at QND because of outstanding students, staff, parents, and support groups. QND is blessed.

I have notified members of the QND Family that my last year as principal of QND will be this coming year, 2011-12. Next year will be my 39th year at QND. My wife, retired for the past five years, and I have discussed this decision for a number of years. I have absolutely loved every year at QND and I am very excited about this coming school year. After I retire as principal of QND in June 2012, I will seek employment outside of my beloved QND. It is the hope of my wife and me to remain in the wonderful city of Quincy, Illinois.

You, the alumni of QND, have given me so much happiness. As a 22 year old English teacher and assistant football coach in 1973, I came to Quincy from the South Side of Chicago not knowing a single person in the city.

God has blessed me with many years of happy experiences. I would not trade one year in my career at QND for anything. This is a special place, as each one of you knows. You know that "Raider Pride" goes far beyond athletics and other competitive endeavors. It is something deep inside the heart and soul of every person who is connected to this institution.

The main focus should be on ending this outstanding year in the best way possible and experiencing an great 2011-12 school year. I sincerely hope you are proud of your alma mater and what your school means to our city, our country, and our world. Our young adults are our future and they are becoming faith-filled, learned citizens within this building at 10th and Jackson.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. As always, you are most welcome to visit your alma mater. Just let us know the day and time and we will make it happen.

God bless our seniors who graduate at 1 p.m., Sunday, May 15th. God bless all of you and your families. May this summer be one of peace of mind, happiness, and God's Grace.

Sincerely,

Ray Heilmann, Principal of Quincy Notre Dame High School