Ed Trifone brings three decades of Catholic nonprofit leadership and cross-sector business expertise to his role as Vice President for External Relations for Regina Caeli Academy, combining strategic vision with a relationship-focused approach to drive organizational growth and community impact. Ed Trifone has been named Vice President of External Relations, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience across Catholic nonprofit organizations, business development, and operations management. A Notre Dame alumnus with both undergraduate and graduate degrees from the university, Trifone launched his career directing the Alumni Community Service Program, where he coordinated faith-based service initiatives through alumni chapters nationwide. Ed has drawn on a wide range of professional experiences across the medical, commercial real estate, and construction industries to lead program development, implement operational transformations, and drive expansive growth. By combining his passions, interests, and skills, he has consistently crafted strategic marketing plans, introduced effective management systems, and built lasting relationships. Known for his relationship-centric approach, he focuses on fostering strong partnerships with clients, colleagues, benefactors, and stakeholders through trust, insight, and collaboration. Most recently, Ed served as Principal and Vice President of Sales & Marketing at BrightRay Publishing, a boutique provider of book writing, publishing and promotional services. Prior to this he was the Southeast Regional Director of Legatus, a national organization of 5,000 Catholic executives and spouses whose goal is to embody their faith in their professional and personal lives. Trifone's commitment to service extends across multiple communities. At the parish level, he has served as a council member and co-founded a men's ministry group while contributing to Confirmation preparation as both witness presenter and sponsor. His local involvement includes coaching and serving as a science fair judge at his daughters' Catholic grade school. His service record includes volunteer work with national organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Christmas in April. In higher education, Trifone served as Past President of his Notre Dame graduating class and has addressed audiences as a national speaker for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). In his new role at Regina Caeli Academy, Trifone will oversee external relationship development and strategic partnership initiatives, drawing on his extensive background in nonprofit leadership and business development to advance the organization's mission and community impact. Trifone resides in Maitland, Florida, with his wife Marie, also a Notre Dame graduate who holds both Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees, and their three teenage daughters.

Pope Leo XIV blesses John Francis Solanus Casey and Thérèse Azélie Giard during the popemobile tour before his inaugural Mass. VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV paused his popemobile procession before his inaugural Mass on May 18, 2025, to bless two infants from American families connected to Regina Caeli Academy (RCA), creating a touching moment before an estimated 150,000 pilgrims in St. Peter's Square. The spontaneous blessing occurred when the pontiff noticed babies John Francis Solanus Casey and Thérèse Azélie Giard being held by their parents along the popemobile route. The moment drew emotional responses from onlookers as the Holy Father made the sign of the cross over each child and created an unforgettable moment for the Casey and Giard families. The Casey Family's Calling Jonathan and Rebecca Casey felt a sudden calling to travel to Rome with their children for the papal inaugural Mass. "We felt called to fly to Rome with all the children for the inaugural Mass of the new pope at the last minute," Rebecca Casey explained. "We also hoped that we might have the opportunity for the Pope to bless them." Security brings John Francis Solanus Casey to Pope Leo XIV for a blessing. Photo courtesy of Jonathan and Rebecca Casey. The decision came after watching a post-conclave interview where Cardinal Dolan from New York invited viewers to attend the inaugural Mass. "We felt really like the invitation was to us also," she recalled. "So we booked this trip and set out on it in less than a week." In the days leading up to the Mass, the family encountered both a religious sister and a priest who offered valuable advice about positioning themselves to meet the Pope as he traveled through St. Peter's Square. The Giard Family Joins Thérèse Azélie Giard with Pope Leo XIV. Photo: Getty Images The Caseys extended their invitation to Aaron and Diana Giard, along with their baby Thérèse Azélie Giard. The Giard family, who have five children and have been part of the Regina Caeli Academy community since 2021, couldn't resist the opportunity. "We were invited by the Caseys to fly to Rome with them and attend the inaugural Mass so that, it was hoped, our babies could be blessed by Pope Leo," Diana Giard explained. "We could not turn down the invitation!" A Providential Encounter The blessing wasn't orchestrated through official channels. The families arrived early at 7:00 am to secure prime positions along the popemobile route. "The blessing was not 'planned' in the sense that we talked to people who knew how to get him to stop and bless our babies," Diana Giard noted. "We just got there early and got a great spot on the edge of the popemobile route." When the Pope's vehicle approached, guards noticed the families with their infants. "They noticed us, and a guard stopped the car, and we handed them the babies," Diana recalled. The Casey infant became the first baby to be publicly greeted by Pope Leo XIV, followed by baby Thérèse. Lasting Impact Both families feel a special connection to America's first pope. "We have felt the Holy Spirit leading our hearts with love for our church and our new pope over these past couple of weeks," Rebecca Casey said. "We feel a strong affinity for him being American, and also a connection to pray for him in a more specific way than we have felt before. We hope he can unite our church, all Christians, and inspire many to turn to Jesus." Diana Giard echoed similar sentiments: "We can sense a deep humility and prayerfulness and love in our new Pope and pray that he is delivered from all harm and helped through the grace of God to bring greater unity to the Church and glory to God." Both families viewed their Roman pilgrimage as evidence of divine providence. "This whole trip has been filled with God's providential care and blessings," Diana reflected. Aaron and Diana Giard have five children enrolled at Regina Caeli Academy's Northern Massachusetts center, where they have been part of the community since Spring 2021. Their youngest, Thérèse Azélie, is currently enrolled in the center's nursery program. Diana serves as an upper school tutor, working with students in grades 7-12 at the Northern Massachusetts location. Jonathan and Rebecca Casey started with Regina Caeli Academy in 2020 at the Boston center, but had to discontinue their children's enrollment when they relocated to Florida. Despite relocating, the Caseys have maintained strong ties with Regina Caeli Academy and have become instrumental in its expansion efforts. They played a key role in establishing the Northern Massachusetts center before their move to Florida, and are now collaborating with RCA's expansion team to open new centers in the future.

Mrs. Jamie Kohler with her husband Matt. Mrs. Jamie Kohler, an upper school tutor at the Regina Caeli Academy Portland location, received a devastating cancer diagnosis in June 2024 with an initial prognosis of 6-12 months to live. Rather than despair, her first response was to ask God what He wanted her to do with this challenge. Throughout her ongoing treatment—including chemotherapy, naturopathic care, and a strict protocol—she has found strength through daily mental prayer, her parish community's support, and spiritual practices that help her focus on gratitude rather than fear. Her faith journey through cancer has deepened her sense of purpose, leading her to continue training as a spiritual director and write a book about her experience. She has also connected with other Catholic cancer patients worldwide, creating support networks and sharing encouragement. Despite the uncertainty of her prognosis, which has involved multiple treatment changes, she maintains that preparing spiritually before trials come is essential, and encourages others not to postpone meaningful moments with family and faith, reminding them to "live a joyous life that leads others to Christ." Q&A with Mrs. Kohler When were you first diagnosed with cancer? What were your initial thoughts? I was diagnosed on June 6, 2024. My initial thoughts were, "Ok, Lord, what do you want me to do with this?" What treatment did you undergo? I do a chemo regimen that is three weeks on, one week off (Since July 2, 2024). I also consult with a naturopathic oncologist and receive health coaching from a doctor in Canada. My protocol included a very regimented diet, daily exercise, and a host of supplements and off-label drugs. What were some of the hardest parts of your journey, physically, emotionally, spiritually? The spiritual warfare that plagued me, especially early on, was a challenge. However, I was thankful I had the tools necessary to rebuke the Devil through the study of Discernment of Spirits and attending the Healing the Whole Person Retreat put on by the JPII Institute for Healing. Were there any specific Bible verses, prayers, or spiritual practices that brought you comfort? My daily prayer, which includes Mental Prayer, was/is vital to my ability to focus on the gratitude of the day and not worry about what it would look like six months from now. Today is a good day, let's celebrate it and live my daily duty as God would have me do. How did your church or faith community support you during this time? My parish has been amazing. The amount of prayer I receive daily is magnanimous. I also have people willing to drive me to and from chemo so that my husband doesn't have to take so much time off work. In the beginning, people brought food, but I soon realized this wasn't as helpful as people would like because of the diet regimen. I also have great support for watching my three-year-old when I have appointments. Were there people God placed in your life that made a big difference along the way? When I was first diagnosed, I kept hearing the word "receive," and while it was people's generosity, it was also information. I feel like I am back at college learning about the human body and how cancer functions. I have friends who are doctors (not oncologists), who are generous with information, suggesting treatments, and supporting me. Trying to navigate so much information can be overwhelming. How did your faith help you support and encourage your loved ones who were also affected by your diagnosis? When I was first diagnosed, I was given 6-12 months to live. At the time, my oldest son's wedding was a year out. I wasn't sure if I would be there. At first, that made me very sad, but then almost immediately, I heard an interior voice remind me that as a person in purgatory or heaven, I would be able to pray for those here and that I would be more present to them at the wedding that I would be in my current "form." That gave me an overwhelming peace, and I was able to refer back to that any time I had a "fear of missing out" should God call me home. Looking back, how do you see God working in and through your journey? I have been able to connect with other cancer patients around the world, share my protocol, and give encouragement. A friend of mine (she has brain cancer) and I have started a Signal group for support for Catholics living with or survivors of cancer. We pray for each other and offer advice, if asked. God has guided me every step, even though the route is definitely not straight: inoperable, operable, not eligible for operation (new met to live), prep for radiation, problem in the liver (possible abscess), back to chemo (this is our current state). What lessons has this experience taught you about faith, life, and resilience? It has shown me that I need to work on my vanity (hair loss), that I need to be better about detachment (still a work in progress), and that focusing on the good, true, and beautiful will help me live today as my best day. Has your outlook on life or your purpose changed? Right before I was diagnosed, I had discerned a yes to begin training to be a spiritual director. When I was diagnosed, I thought perhaps I had heard wrong in my discernment. However, God affirmed that, yes, he did want me to continue pursuing this. So I am currently working with the Avila Institute to complete my initial phase of formation. I am also writing a book regarding my cancer journey. How would you encourage someone who is struggling to hold on to their faith in a difficult time? Read Finding Peace in the Storm: Reflections on St. Alphonsus Liguori's Uniformity with God's Will by Dan Burke. It happened to be the last book my small group read and studied before I got sick. God's timing is never wrong. And find a small group to walk with during the difficult time. Really, the question should be, "How, in times of consolation and peace, do I prepare for times when I may struggle to hold on to my faith?" Prepare BEFORE the storm comes so you have the spiritual tools necessary to weather the storm. Don't assume you can “do it next year." Take time now to be with your family, make memories, share your faith, and live a joyous life that leads others to Christ. Mrs. Kohler recently appeared on Dan Burke's Divine Intimacy Radio to discuss her remarkable journey of faith through cancer. Her story of turning a devastating diagnosis into deeper discipleship offers hope and practical wisdom for anyone facing difficult times. Watch below or listen at: https://spiritualdirection.com/2025/03/31/a-woman-at-the-tomb

Visit Regina Caeli Boston Join other families in an in-person tour or an info night to learn more about our homeschool hybrid program and how Regina Caeli Academy can support families like yours! Curriclum Center Location What to Expect: In-Person Admissions Events How long does the group tour last? Who can attend? Allow one hour in your schedule to attend a group tour. Anyone interested in homeschooling with Regina Caeli Academy may attend. Participants must register. How do I know where this center is located? Where do I go for the in-person events? The address of the event will be included in the confirmation email. What should I expect from the group tour? Is there anything I need to know ahead of time? Plan to experience the Catholic culture and family-centered environment of our Regina Caeli Centers. Participate in a short overview of the Classical Homeschool Hybrid program and visit our classrooms to witness the joy of learning. What are other ways to learn more? I am unable to attend a group tour. You are invited to join a Virtual Admissions Q&A or register for an in-person Info Night. What is an evening info night? The Info Night is a short overview of our Classical Homeschool Hybrid in the Catholic Tradition followed by Q&A. The Info Night is held in-person on campus. Is there a dress code? At Regina Caeli everyone on campus adheres to the dress code (shoulders to knees covered). Can I bring all of my children? Our group tours are family friendly. You may bring your children along or make other arrangements for them. Have questions? Contact us Mrs. Winslow Brandenburg "Winslow is in her 10th year at Regina Caeli and has been a home educator for over 20 years. She has a passion for homeschooling in community, helping students to discover God's plan for their lives, and believes Regina Caeli Academy is the best of both worlds; of what the classroom and home have to offer. We invite you to visit us soon!" Contact Info: info@rcahybrid.org Classical Education for Catholics The Classical Homeschool Hybrid for Catholic Families Regina Caeli Academy's Catholic culture encourages students to explore the wonder of God’s creation, embody magnanimity – a greatness of character and of the soul –, and graduate as skilled disciples of Christ, ready to lead the next generation of Catholics. Transforms the heart, mind, and soul Prepares students for life and beyond Forms the will to desire what is good, true, and beautiful Catholic Environment Catholic faith is fully integrated in all subjects and each staff member takes Oath of Fidelity to Magisterium. Homeschool Hybrid In-classroom lessons two days a week and in-home lesson plans that support parents the other three days a week. Socratic Discussion Thoughtful & intentional dialogue between teachers and students to stimulate critical thinking Screen-Free We rely on intentional discussion, not digital devices, to teach, inspire, and form our students. Curriclum Benefits of a Classical Curriculum Our Curriculum Following the great intellectual tradition of the classical liberal arts, Regina Caeli™ curriculum utilizes a classical methodology that rests on the concept of the Trivium, Latin for “the three ways” of learning: grammar, logic and rhetoric – which correspond to a student’s naturally maturing mind. Classroom work such as narration, picture study, presentation, and oral and written persuasion show the interconnectedness of all knowledge through the contemplation of the True, the Good, and the Beautiful. Classical education based on the trivium, integrated classical books, art and music, and idea-focused instruction provides students with the foundation to live a principled life and is proven to cultivate wisdom and virtue so that the love of God may abound more and more. Apply Now to RCA Start the application process and join the RCA community. Select your location to apply now. FIND YOUR LOCATION

Visit Regina Caeli Detroit Join other families in an in-person tour or an info night to learn more about our homeschool hybrid program and how Regina Caeli Academy can support families like yours! Curriclum Center Location What to Expect: In-Person Admissions Events How long does the group tour last? Who can attend? Allow one hour in your schedule to attend a group tour. Anyone interested in homeschooling with Regina Caeli Academy may attend. Participants must register. How do I know where this center is located? Where do I go for the in-person events? The address of the event will be included in the confirmation email. What should I expect from the group tour? Is there anything I need to know ahead of time? Plan to experience the Catholic culture and family-centered environment of our Regina Caeli Centers. Participate in a short overview of the Classical Homeschool Hybrid program and visit our classrooms to witness the joy of learning. What are other ways to learn more? I am unable to attend a group tour. You are invited to join a Virtual Admissions Q&A or register for an in-person Info Night. What is an evening info night? The Info Night is a short overview of our Classical Homeschool Hybrid in the Catholic Tradition followed by Q&A. The Info Night is held in-person on campus. Is there a dress code? At Regina Caeli everyone on campus adheres to the dress code (shoulders to knees covered). Can I bring all of my children? Our group tours are family friendly. You may bring your children along or make other arrangements for them. Have questions? Contact us Mrs. Winslow Brandenburg "Winslow is in her 10th year at Regina Caeli and has been a home educator for over 20 years. She has a passion for homeschooling in community, helping students to discover God's plan for their lives, and believes Regina Caeli Academy is the best of both worlds; of what the classroom and home have to offer. We invite you to visit us soon!" Contact Info: info@rcahybrid.org Classical Education for Catholics The Classical Homeschool Hybrid for Catholic Families Regina Caeli Academy's Catholic culture encourages students to explore the wonder of God’s creation, embody magnanimity – a greatness of character and of the soul –, and graduate as skilled disciples of Christ, ready to lead the next generation of Catholics. Transforms the heart, mind, and soul Prepares students for life and beyond Forms the will to desire what is good, true, and beautiful Catholic Environment Catholic faith is fully integrated in all subjects and each staff member takes Oath of Fidelity to Magisterium. Homeschool Hybrid In-classroom lessons two days a week and in-home lesson plans that support parents the other three days a week. Socratic Discussion Thoughtful & intentional dialogue between teachers and students to stimulate critical thinking Screen-Free We rely on intentional discussion, not digital devices, to teach, inspire, and form our students. Curriclum Benefits of a Classical Curriculum Our Curriculum Following the great intellectual tradition of the classical liberal arts, Regina Caeli™ curriculum utilizes a classical methodology that rests on the concept of the Trivium, Latin for “the three ways” of learning: grammar, logic and rhetoric – which correspond to a student’s naturally maturing mind. Classroom work such as narration, picture study, presentation, and oral and written persuasion show the interconnectedness of all knowledge through the contemplation of the True, the Good, and the Beautiful. Classical education based on the trivium, integrated classical books, art and music, and idea-focused instruction provides students with the foundation to live a principled life and is proven to cultivate wisdom and virtue so that the love of God may abound more and more. Apply Now to RCA Start the application process and join the RCA community. Select your location to apply now. FIND YOUR LOCATION

Classical PreK-12 Homeschool Hybrid for Catholic Families Welcome to Regina Caeli Boston! Request Information Name* Email* Phone* Number of Students Did you attend a Virtual Q&A?* SUBMIT Visit RCA Boston Come see our center in action and experience the RCA difference. Click the “In-Person Events” button to schedule your tour today Application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now closed for this RCA center. Applications for 2026-2027 will open in November. IN-PERSON EVENTS Dedham, Massachusetts Regina Caeli Boston Whether you have always home schooled and seek extra support, or your children have attended a traditional school, we are here to help you give your children the best classical education available today. Regina Caeli Academy's unique method offers both a strong family life enjoyed by homeschoolers and a formative, Socratic classroom experience for all students. As you browse our website, please notice the many extra-curricular activities, our commitment to the evangelical Catholic life, as well as the college preparatory high school offerings. Curriclum Upcoming Events Attend a Virtual Q&A Event Discover more about Regina Caeli Academy in a live, interactive Q&A session. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, learn about our classical education model, and see how RCA can support your family. UPCOMING EVENTS Cultivating a Mind Pursuant of Truth The Benefits of a Classical Homeschool Hybrid Model Students graduate from the full college preparatory curriculum with an accredited diploma Parents are assisted with meeting deadlines, testing, and attendance requirements It is an affordable model for those who desire flexibility It allows children to be home with mom or dad three days out of the week Those who teach with us are trained in the classical curriculum and the Socratic Method REQUEST INFO Curriclum Benefits of a Classical Curriculum Our Curriculum Following the great intellectual tradition of the classical liberal arts, Regina Caeli™ curriculum utilizes a classical methodology that rests on the concept of the Trivium, Latin for “the three ways” of learning: grammar, logic and rhetoric – which correspond to a student’s naturally maturing mind. Classroom work such as narration, picture study, presentation, and oral and written persuasion show the interconnectedness of all knowledge through the contemplation of the True, the Good, and the Beautiful. Classical education based on the trivium, integrated classical books, art and music, and idea-focused instruction provides students with the foundation to live a principled life and is proven to cultivate wisdom and virtue so that the love of God may abound more and more. Meet the Team Mrs. Lauren Hunt Contact Info: Center Coordinator of Operations lhunt.bos@rcahybrid.org 781.531.8115 Classical Education for Catholics The Classical Homeschool Hybrid for Catholic Families Regina Caeli Academy's Catholic culture encourages students to explore the wonder of God’s creation, embody magnanimity – a greatness of character and of the soul –, and graduate as skilled disciples of Christ, ready to lead the next generation of Catholics. Transforms the heart, mind, and soul Prepares students for life and beyond Forms the will to desire what is good, true, and beautiful REQUEST INFO Working with Regina Caeli Academy Benefits of Joining Our Team We are looking to hire educators who love their Catholic faith and would like to teach in the joyful environment of Regina Caeli! We have a variety of positions available and would love for you to join our team. Grow a deeper understanding of the curriculum and greater engagement in the RCA community Tuition discount for those who have more than one child enrolled in the program Childcare for staff is available for their children 2 and under All postions are paid VIEW OPEN POSITIONS Frequently asked questions What to Expect: In-Person Admissions Events Financial FAQs-Front Page All Questions How long does the group tour last? Who can attend? Allow one hour in your schedule to attend a group tour. Anyone interested in homeschooling with Regina Caeli Academy may attend. Participants must register. How do I know where this center is located? Where do I go for the in-person events? The address of the event will be included in the confirmation email. What should I expect from the group tour? Is there anything I need to know ahead of time? Plan to experience the Catholic culture and family-centered environment of our Regina Caeli Centers. Participate in a short overview of the Classical Homeschool Hybrid program and visit our classrooms to witness the joy of learning. What are other ways to learn more? I am unable to attend a group tour. You are invited to join a Virtual Admissions Q&A or register for an in-person Info Night. What is an evening info night? The Info Night is a short overview of our Classical Homeschool Hybrid in the Catholic Tradition followed by Q&A. The Info Night is held in-person on campus. Is there a dress code? At Regina Caeli everyone on campus adheres to the dress code (shoulders to knees covered). Can I bring all of my children? Our group tours are family friendly. You may bring your children along or make other arrangements for them. VIEW ALL FAQs Forming the Next Generation of Catholic Leaders REQUEST INFO RCA Transformed this Family's Homeschool Experience REQUEST INFO Donate to RCA Boston Your gift to Regina Caeli Academy equips students with much-needed financial support. Thank you for your donation! DONATE Thank you. banedentistry.com Regina Caeli Academy is grateful for the generosity and benevolence of Dr. Francis Bane for sponsoring our 3rd annual golf tournament, which took place on May 2, 2025 at Presidents Golf Course in Quincy, MA