The month-long initiative, titled “June for Jack – The Malarkey Match Challenge: Double Your Impact. Honor A Legacy. Support Marian Students,” will run throughout June and benefit the Marian Fund.
A generous donor has pledged to match every contribution made to the Marian Fund during the month, up to $50,000, effectively doubling the value of each gift as Marian works toward its overall Marian Fund goal of $550,000 by June 30, 2026.
Malarkey, a member of Marian’s Class of 1951, died on June 5, 2025. Affectionately known as “Mr. Marian,” he dedicated more than 60 years of service to the school as a teacher, coach, principal, mentor and volunteer.
His commitment to Catholic education and his influence on generations of students earned him a lasting place in Marian Catholic history.
As part of the challenge, donors who contribute $100 or more during June will receive a Marian outdoor flag while supplies last. Contributors may choose between a 3-by-5-foot Marian flag or a Marian garden flag.
Participants are also encouraged to share memories of Malarkey by answering the question, “What is the most meaningful lesson Mr. Malarkey taught you, or how did he impact your life?” Selected stories may be featured throughout the campaign as a tribute to his enduring influence.
Father Robert Finlan, principal of Marian Catholic and a longtime friend of Malarkey, said the longtime educator embodied the values the school strives to instill.
“Jack Malarkey represented everything Marian strives to be—faith-filled, compassionate, humble, and deeply committed to serving others,” Finlan said. “He devoted his life to generations of students and families, not for recognition, but because he loved Marian and believed in its mission.”
Jim Sauka, a member of the Class of 1966 and longtime supporter of the school, described Malarkey as a mentor and example of servant leadership whose dedication to Marian was genuine and lifelong.
Bill O’Gurek, president of the Marian Catholic Alumni Association and a 1973 graduate, said generations of alumni have stories about how Malarkey influenced their lives beyond the classroom and athletic field.
John Malarkey, a 1983 graduate and Jack’s son, said his family is humbled by the tribute and noted that Marian was far more than a workplace for his father.
“My father loved Marian with all his heart,” he said. “It was never simply where he worked—it was his vocation, his community, and his second home.”
Since its founding, Marian Catholic has educated thousands of graduates rooted in faith, leadership and service. School officials said the Marian Fund provides essential unrestricted support for student programs, tuition assistance, faculty development and other operational needs.
As the school approaches the close of its fiscal year, leaders hope the “June for Jack” challenge will inspire alumni and friends to honor a beloved educator while investing in Marian’s future.
Those interested in participating can make a gift through the campaign website or contact Dr. Erin Marek in the Marian Catholic Advancement Office at (570) 467-3335 or by email at emarek@mariancatholichs.org.