This event recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and service, reflecting the profound impact of Catholic education on their lives. Five of the eight honorees this year are Bellarmine alums.
"Bellarmine University is immensely proud of our alumni who were honored at the Catholic Education Foundation’s Salute to Catholic Education Alumni Dinner,” said Matt Real, Bellarmine’s Executive Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations. “Their dedication to Catholic education and service to our community embodies Bellarmine’s values and mission to educate students—mind, body, and spirit—for meaningful lives, rewarding careers, ethical leadership, and service to improve the human condition. We celebrate their achievements and the lasting impact they continue to make in shaping future generations."
2025 Catholic School Alumni Honorees
Greg DeMuth, a 1985 graduate with a degree in business administration, has built a distinguished career in the banking industry, currently serving as the Louisville Market Executive for German American Bank. His commitment to Bellarmine is evident through his service on the Board of Overseers and his recognition as a member of the Scarlet & Silver Society. Greg attributes his personal and professional success to his Catholic educational foundation, which began at Holy Trinity Parish School and continued through Trinity High School.
Bill Mudd, who earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics and actuarial science in 1993, is the President and Chief Operating Officer of Churchill Downs Incorporated. His tenure has seen the company's equity market value soar from $738 million to over $10 billion. Bill's dedication to Bellarmine includes serving on the Board of Trustees and his induction into the Gallery of Distinguished Graduates in 2008. He was also honored with the Knight of Knights Award in 2021. Bill credits his Bellarmine experience as the launchpad for his success, deeply rooted in his Catholic educational journey.
John Raque, a 1981 business administration graduate, dedicated nearly two decades to his family business, O'Connor & Raque Office Products Company, rising to Vice President of Operations. His commitment to service is reflected in his involvement with the Bellarmine Board of Overseers. John's lifelong connection to St. Raphael Parish and his Catholic education have profoundly influenced his personal and professional life.
2025 Community Service Award Recipient
Charlie Leis, who graduated in 1968 with a degree in accounting, has had a distinguished career, notably serving as President and Chief Operating Officer of Bramco. His dedication to education is evident through his role as Board Chair of EdChoice Kentucky and his foundational involvement with the Catholic Education Foundation. Charlie's contributions to Bellarmine have been recognized through multiple honors, including the Community Service Award and induction into the Gallery of Distinguished Graduates in 1997.
2025 Father Joseph McGee Award Recipient & Outstanding Catholic Educator
Emily H. McCarty '94 MAEd
Emily McCarty, who earned her master's degree in education from Bellarmine in 1994, has devoted 35 years to teaching, currently as a math teacher at Holy Spirit School. Her passion for sharing her faith and knowledge has made a lasting impact on her students. Emily's deep Catholic roots and commitment to education exemplify the values instilled through her Catholic educational journey.
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