Amazing Evening at the Salesian Gala

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What an amazing evening of fun and excitement we had at our Auction Gala on Saturday! The place was filled with so many wonderful people; our present families, parents of our alumni and loving friends. Everyone had a great time re-uniting with people they had not seen in a while. It was truly a night to celebrate community and all the hard work of so many of our parents, who so generously donated gifts as well as time to help our students complete their class auction projects. The joy and laughter that permeated the place was truly in the Salesian spirit. Thank you for supporting our efforts to continue to celebrate community, and our school mission to provide the best for our young people.

Gratefully,
Sr. Carmen Botello, FMA
Principal

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Melissa O'Connor-Arena

Art and design have always been a crucial part of my life. From coloring when I was a child to taking every art class I could in high school, it's the only thing I ever really wanted to do. I studied all aspects of art for 7 years and graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design in 2006. Since then I have worked as a freelance artist and writer, specializing in layout and album design. I also love photography and film.

I've been a professional designer since 2006 and have experience in all types of graphic design and the arts. My clients include DaVinci Roofscapes, Kayu, Terri Cole, Sheherezade, Kate Smith, Patti Green, Christine Gutierrez, and many more. I like to work with people from various fields which has given me a wide range of projects to apply my aesthetic. I have also written for Patch.com, as well as edited texts and books, so if you need writing services I can help you with that too! 

Besides graphic design, I also run a small stationery business that offers all kinds of invitations and other type of paper goods. You can view my shop and check out my blog on my website. I live and work in New York with my husband Dan, son Elliot (5.22.16), and 2 dogs. Both vegetarian and eco-consious, I do my best to live the most natural, organic life I can, and now create the same environment for my son. Besides design, my hobbies include photography, reading, writing, interior design, and cooking. I love music and used to play bass in a band when I lived in Jersey and of course I sing and dance every chance I get. Working with me is like teaming up with a friend, I am easy going, honest, and kind. My mission is to bring beauty to as many lives as I can through art and design and I look forward to working with you!