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Alumni artist paints a new future at Bishop Noll

For Ms. Dana Moore, the halls of Bishop Noll whisper stories that resonate deeply. Not just as a dedicated 2-D art teacher, but as a 2010 graduate who's returned to nurture the next generation of Warriors. 
While Moore's talents blossom in the classroom, her roots run deep within the Bishop Noll community. She is the youngest of seven siblings, all proud graduates of St. John Bosco and then Bishop Noll, and said the values instilled to them throughout their Catholic education led them to lives of accomplishment and stewardship. 

Her siblings, each successful in their own right, stand as testaments to the values instilled by their alma mater: Richard ’93, an associate principal, leads with dedication, while Robert, a nursing supervisor, exemplifies compassion in healthcare. Denise ’96, Ryan ’99, Russell ’02, and Dawn ’06, thrive in diverse fields, from nursing and dentistry to business and law enforcement, embodying the school's commitment to service and leadership. 

Stepping into her role as an art teacher, Moore carries this legacy forward, not just through her artistic guidance, but also by fostering the same spirit of community and purpose that empowered her siblings and generations of Warriors before her.

“Kudos of course to my dad first and foremost,” Moore said. “Being a huge Italian Irish Catholic family, my dad instilled in us Catholic values. He had to work really hard to send all seven kids to Catholic school. We are so grateful for all his sacrifice in life to make us the successful individuals that we are.”

Moore sees those values reflected in her students today. Having previously honed her skills teaching at St. Casimir School, she now brings a fresh perspective to Bishop Noll. 

“Coming back to Noll as an alum, it’s great being there - that home feeling,” she said. “I taught a lot of my students at St. Casimir so being able to see them grow artistically and seeing them grow mind, body and soul throughout the years is uplifting.”

As the freshman seminar teacher, Moore becomes a bridge between past and present, guiding wide-eyed newcomers through the school's traditions and fostering a sense of belonging. It's a homecoming not just for her, but for each student she mentors, helping them discover their own unique place within the Warrior community.

In addition, Moore coaches Noll’s girls soccer team, a team she was once part of as a student.

“I think overall, dedication and discipline in a sport really helps,” she said. “For my girls, I feel they have their moments of giggling and having a good time with each other. No matter if they are a freshman or senior, it really brings them together. “

But her journey doesn't end there. As she pursues her master's degree in art therapy, a desire to heal and empower through art shines through her teaching philosophy. She was inspired to complete her master’s degree journey thanks to support from her daughter and her late husband.

So, when you peek into Moore's art room, you won't just see budding artists at work. You'll witness a testament to the transformative power of returning home, of sharing the torch of passion, and of using art to paint not just canvases, but futures filled with creativity, purpose, and the enduring spirit of Bishop Noll.
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Bishop Noll Institute, a diverse, Catholic college preparatory school, partners with local faith communities to empower young adults to live their faith in Christ through ministry, scholarship, and leadership.