Family, friends, and alumni gathered in the Dan Byrne '70 Performing Arts Center on Saturday, April 5 as Michael J. Vavonese ’76 and Brother Thomas Zoppo, FSC were honored with the Alumni Association's Purple and Gold Award.
The Purple & Gold Award is given annually to a CBA graduate or non-graduate who promotes and supports the best interests of the students, faculty and alumni of CBA and/or has dedicated years of service to CBA and/or is committed to the ideals and principles of CBA.
Michael J. Vavonese ‘76
Christian Brothers Academy has been blessed with Michael J. Vavonese ’76 and his longtime commitment, dedication and involvement at the school.
Mike served as Vice President of his class during both his Junior and Senior years at CBA. He received the Sarsfield J. O’Connor Football Award, Syracuse Newspaper’s Meet the Teens recognition, the Manhattan College Track Award and selection into the Brother Adolphus Honor Society.
After graduating from CBA, Mike attended Canisius University, where he earned four varsity letters in football, and set an all-time record in kickoff returns. His accomplishments earned him induction into the Canisius University Di Gamma Honor Society, recognizing his excellence in academics and athletics, as well as the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science National Honor Society.
A graduate of Duquesne University School of Law, Mike has built an esteemed career as a criminal trial attorney, advocating for clients at all levels of New York State and Federal Courts. His expertise in criminal law over the past 40 years, has led him to be recognized by Super Lawyers Magazine and the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys.
Shortly after passing the bar in 1984, Mike attended his first alumni association meeting and quickly became deeply involved. He actively participated in alumni phonathons and the alumni smokers. He later played a pivotal role in organizing the initial, now annual, Alumni Golf Tournament and Alumni Football Games, and sat on various search committees over the years in choosing administrators and coaches. Elected Alumni Association President in 2013, Mike recently retired after 11 years in that position.
Additionally in 2006, Mike coached Modified Football, which he did for all three of his sons, beginning with Patrick in 1997. He also became the beloved “Voice of the Brothers,” announcing football games which has continued for the past 16 years.
Mike has been actively involved in numerous civic and charitable organizations, including the Columbus Monument Foundation, where he was president; Our Lady of Pompei School Alumni Association, a member of the Board of the Upstate Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Eastwood Bears Football Association.
Brother Thomas Zoppo, FSC
Br. Thomas Zoppo, FSC legacy continues to inspire generations of students, faculty, and alumni. His lifelong devotion to the mission of the De La Salle Christian Brothers and his tireless service to Catholic education make him a most deserving recipient of the award.
Since taking his vows as a Christian Brother in 1979, Br. Thomas has embodied the Lasallian spirit in every facet of his career. A native of Massachusetts, he pursued his undergraduate degree at Villanova University, before earning two graduate degrees from Manhattan College, now Manhattan University. He entered the New York Province of the Christian Brothers and held congregational assignments in New York, California, and Maryland, before first arriving at CBA in 1983 as a math teacher and Academic Dean.
As a member of the Board of Trustees, Br. Thomas played a pivotal role in the historic decision to admit female students, ensuring a smooth transition for the first young women who walked through CBA’s doors in 1987. He returned as Head of School in 2003.
Br. Thomas brought stability to enrollment and spearheaded the To Be the Best capital campaign. His leadership contributed to its remarkable success, making it the largest campaign in CBA's history at the time, raising over $11 million. The To Be The Best Campaign significantly enhanced CBA’s ability to offer financial assistance to students in need, furthering our Lasallian mission.
Beyond CBA, Br. Thomas has served Catholic education with distinction. Since July 1, 2024, he has led De La Salle Collegiate High School in Warren, MI as its President. He has contributed his expertise to numerous professional organizations, boards, and advisory groups, including his ongoing role on the Board of Trustees at Manhattan University. In recognition of his extraordinary service to the Church, Cardinal Sean O’Malley honored him with the Cheverus Medal in 2019, and before departing Cardinal Newman High School, he was awarded a Legacy Honorary Alumni Award.
Past recipients of the Purple & Gold Award
