Bethel Park High School recently inducted its 2026 Distinguished Alumni, honoring graduates whose achievements have made a significant impact locally, nationally, and internationally. The ceremony recognized five alumni for their professional accomplishments and community contributions.
- Colonel David L. Barraclough (Class of 1971) retired after 31 years in the United States Marine Corps, during which he built Habitat for Humanity homes, adopted an elementary school, and raised over $70,000 for children with special needs, in addition to mentoring thousands of Marines.
- Judy Murtaugh Volpatti (Class of 1976) has owned and taught at her namesake dance studio for nearly 50 years, instructing an estimated 10,000 students while focusing on inclusivity and instilling lifelong values of compassion and creativity.
- Damian M. Ferrese (Class of 2004) leveraged his studies in French and German at BPHS into dual Bachelor’s degrees and a career in government and international trade, including diplomatic service as an Agricultural Attaché in Nairobi, Kenya.
- Lieutenant Commander Roger S. Graham (Class of 1988) served nine years as a Naval Flight Officer with two deployments, later transitioning to the Naval Reserves while leading Teleflex’s Interventional Cardiology business unit and supporting veterans through Make-A-Vet-Sweat.
- Margaret Ann Mannella (Class of 1969) founded PA Connecting Communities, a nonprofit supporting over 3,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and veterans, providing services ranging from employment and behavioral support to youth transition programs.
The Distinguished Alumni program, established in 2013, continues to celebrate the personal and professional accomplishments of BPHS graduates, highlighting the ways alumni contribute to their communities and fields of work. Click here to learn more about the program, to see past winners, and to nominate your most deserving alumnus.