OSTERVILLE — In recognition of her decades of dedication to Catholic schools, Patricia Marmen, a longtime champion of Catholic education on Cape Cod, received 2026 Al Makkay Sr. Award at the Foundation to Advance Catholic Education (FACE) Summer Gala, recently at the Wianno Club in Osterville, MA.

Patricia Marmen receives the Al
Makkay, Sr. Friend of Catholic
Education Award from Bishop da Cunha

The annual award is named for the late Al Makkay Sr. Award, a  devoted supporter of Catholic schools, and honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Catholic education on Cape Cod.

“Pat’s dedication to Catholic schools on Cape Cod is evident in everything she does. From being the first principal of St. Pius X School to her years of service with FACE, she has consistently upheld the values of a Catholic school education,” the Makkay Family said in a statement.

Bishop da Cunha presented Marmen with the award at the recent FACE Gala.

“It’s an honor for me to present the Al Makkay, Sr. award to a very special person,” said Bishop da Cunha. “Pat embodies everything that makes Catholic education impactful and meaningful.”

Marmen’s legacy in the Diocese of Fall River is deeply intertwined with the history of St. Pius X School in South Yarmouth. Appointed as the founding Head of School in 2003, she played an instrumental role in bringing the Diocese’s vision for a new  Catholic school on the Cape to life. From collaborating with architects, pastors, and parish leaders during the school’s construction to recruiting faculty and staff and welcoming its inaugural class in September 2004, Marmen helped build a vibrant school community grounded in faith, academic excellence, service, and integrity. She served as Head of School until her retirement in 2010.

“As a principal, I saw the need for financial scholarships for students,” said Marmen upon accepting the award,” said Marmen. “When I meet former students, many of whom are adults now, they tell me how grateful they are for the ability to attend St. Pius X School. FACE scholarships have made a true difference in the lives of so many students and their families.”

Prior to joining the Diocese of Fall River, Marmen built a distinguished career in Catholic education as principal of St. Mary/Marian Hill Middle School in Southbridge and Venerini Academy in Worcester.

A parishioner of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Osterville, Marmen, who was the co-chair of the FACE Gala, also serves as a Eucharistic minister and continues to work to remove economic barriers for students seeking a  Catholic education. .

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