Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

Sophia M., a student at Melbourne Central Catholic, spent her summer at the University of Florida’s Summer Media Institute. The six-day workshop is designed to introduce high school students to journalism and communications. Sophia, who anchors the school’s Morning Buzz program, hopes to attend UF’s College of Journalism and Communication in 2026.

“Going to MCC has helped me practice my faith along with my education. Bringing the integrity and morality that I’ve learned at MCC into the broadcasting world is important to me because I feel it’s something lacking in the newscasting world,” she said.

Gabriel C., another student from Melbourne Central Catholic, attended Stanford University’s Envision by WorldStrides Intensive Law and Trial program this summer. The program took place at Stanford Law School and provided an introduction to legal principles and trial procedures.

Gabriel joined 300 other students from across the country and around the world in case studies and mock trials, taking on roles as both prosecutor and defense attorney. These activities were held in San Francisco Supreme Court building, giving participants direct experience with courtroom proceedings.

He also had opportunities for networking and connecting with peers from diverse backgrounds while experiencing life on Stanford’s campus.

Melbourne Central Catholic is one of 43 Catholic schools within The Diocese of Orlando, which was established in 1968. The diocese covers Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole, Sumter, and Volusia Counties under the leadership of Bishop James Noonan.