By Charissa M. Carroll
Head Staff Writer

According to Judy Orgonas, the best investment parents can make is to put their children in a Catholic school.

And Orgonas, who was just promoted to administrative assistant in the diocesan Department of Education, definitely speaks from experience. She is a lifelong product of Catholic education, which she said served to deepen her spirituality and sharpen her academic skills.

Orgonas’ commitment to Catholic education runs deep, which is apparent from her 19 years of service to the diocese as administrative coordinator for the Office of Schools. In her new role, she will continue to perform all the duties of her prior position, but also provide direct administrative support to Msgr. Michael J. Corona, executive director of the Department of Education.

"My main function is trying to keep everything running smoothly for everyone in the department," she said. "I supervise the [support staff] and oversee all projects in the Office of Religious Education and Office of Schools."

Though Orgonas acknowledges her position is "hectic," she said she also finds it deeply satisfying.

"The part of my job that I enjoy the most is the communication with all of the pastors and principals," she stated. "I just love them. After 19 years, you develop a real bond with people."

During this time, Orgonas said she has delighted in watching many of the schools in the diocese blossom and become more technologically and academically advanced.

She urges all parents to consider Catholic education. "It sends a message to children that learning about God and spirituality is important," she noted. "It’s an investment that lasts a lifetime. When you consider the budgets in public schools, we often do a far better job for a fraction of the cost."

For Orgonas, the benefits of Catholic school were also valuable on a personal level; it was there that she met the love of her life.

"My husband, Andy, and I have been married for over 40 years and we were high school sweethearts. We met at a school dance. See what Catholic school did for me?" she quipped.

A native of New York City, Orgonas currently resides in Parlin and is a member of St. Mary Parish, South Amboy. She and her husband have two sons and a daughter, as well as five granddaughters.

While Orgonas is pleased to be united with colleagues from different offices and departments in the diocesan center, she fondly remembers the John Paul II Center in Perth Amboy, where she spent 16 years.

"We had so many good times there," she said. "A lot of people have moved on, but we continue to feel their presence."

Orgonas said that she has so many special memories of her years with the diocese that it is impossible to pinpoint just one or two. "I have met and been touched by many, many people; it’s a real gift" she stated. "That’s why working here means so much to me."