The Franciscan School has a place for everyone. Whether you begin your days here in preschool, eighth grade, or somewhere in between, you will find your home here. TFS graduate Michael Catania moved to the Raleigh area at the end of 6 th grade and joined the TFS community for 7 th and 8 th grades. Those two years were full and rich, ones marked with many memories and milestones. “TFS was the perfect place to learn, grow up, and prepare me for the next chapter,” shares Michael.

Middle school is a time of many changes and maturing. Michael recalls how great friendships were formed and strengthened through sports at TFS, as well as morning prayer in the courtyard, locker chats, Friday night football games, and more. “TFS holds great memories in my life, and I was blessed to go to school in a wonderful environment,” says Michael. “I thank my parents for choosing TFS for me.”

Michael graduated from TFS in 2010 and spent the next four years at Cardinal Gibbons High School. He then headed to the mountains where he graduated from Appalachian State University (ASU) in 2018, majoring in business management with a minor in human resource management. ASU fit Michael’s personality so well, as he enjoyed being outdoors and in the snowy mountains during the winters. Michael attended many football games in college and met
his wife there.

Following his time in Boone, Michael moved to Charlotte where he started his career as a financial consultant with TIAA and then Wells Fargo. Being bilingual in Spanish has opened many doors for Michael, and he used these skills as a Bilingual Home Mortgage Consultant at Wells Fargo and a Bilingual Loan Officer at New American Funding. Most recently, Michael has served as a Business Initiatives Consultant and Deal Execution Specialist at Wells Fargo.
In everything, Michael aspires to enjoy what he does everyday and make a difference. He has a goal to be a leader of teams and development in his future, making his work impactful and long-lasting. Michael gives much appreciation to his wife for her support, motivation, and always believing in him.

While he was at TFS, Michael remembers the impact that some of his teachers had on him, particularly Mrs. Putnam, Mrs. Conklin, and Mrs. Willard. “All of my teachers were wonderful and deserve recognition though,” Michael shares.

In addition to working, Michael enjoys playing pickleball, kickball, mountain biking, and spending
time with his family. He and his wife are parishioners at St. Mark’s Catholic Church. They also
enjoy attending the annual Mira Via fundraiser to support the pro-life mission. When asked what
he would share with current students, he says “It goes by fast, so always make sure to soak it
all in! Memories are great because they stay with you, and those experiences have helped form
me into who I am today. Also, don’t forget your belt or to tuck in your shirt - that one stays with
you!”