Get Involved

Don’t let your time or talent go to waste! One of the best ways to have fun, make friends and develop your gifts is to join a club or organization from OC’s huge pool of options. Browse through our list of activities for one or more that interest you and find out how to get involved. Our only advice, don’t be afraid to try new things. Dive in!

Band

Moderator: Mr. Wilson

In conjunction with Central Catholic, Oakland Catholic’s Marching Band plays its way through two weeks of band camp, football halftime shows, competitions and festivals in just one semester. Instrumentalists of all talents and tastes are welcome to try-out for OC’s highly praised Marching Band where hard work and practice result in fantastic performances and great friendships.

Bookstore

Moderator: Mrs. Kasunic

You can show your true colors by sporting OC apparel and gear from the Bookstore. Our merchandise ranges from tees to totes, so we can outfit you in maroon and grey from top to toe. Help us to order, organize and sell our stylish stock to fellow students looking for ways to express their school spirit, or pass it on to friends and relatives with one-of-a-kind OC gifts!

B.U.S.T.E.D.

Moderator:

Take a stand for your health and your neighbor’s – join OC’s chapter of Pennsylvania’s official youth anti-tobacco movement. Teenagers in BUSTED! have been spreading the truth about the Big Tobacco companies across the country since 2001, and people are taking notice. Help keep tobacco from ruining more lives at meetings, rallies, and local grade schools. Become a member of OC’s BUSTED!

Campus Ministry

Moderator: Ms. Brinzer

There are many ways to live your faith each day. By joining Oakland Catholic’s Campus Ministry team, you can enhance your own spirituality by spreading the love of Christ to others through the planning of retreats, volunteer activities, charitable fundraisers, and liturgies. Take an active part in the Christian community at OC so that you can not only live, but also share your faith.

Chess Team

Moderator: Mr. Flohr

“All I want to do, ever, is just play chess.” ~Bobby Fischer
No long hours in the gym are required to master this game. All you need is your brain. One of the greatest combinations of leisure and competition, strategy and risk, chess has been a favorite pastime for countless great minds since the sixth century. So if you’re looking to be the next Bobby Fischer or to fill downtime with a fun hobby, trust tradition, make your move, and join us!

Environmental Club

Moderator: TBA

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~Margaret Mead

Improving the ailing environment around us can be a daunting task, but becoming overwhelmed by the problems facing our natural world is hardly the solution. By organizing like-minded individuals committed to taking steps toward a healthier Earth, OC’s Environmental Club provides an active outlet for sympathizers of our cause, raises awareness of environmental issues, and influences people’s behavior. You’re not powerless – take action with us!

Film Club

Moderator: Mrs. Sharyn Zalno / Mrs. Kasunic

The video clips you view under the Oakland Catholic Experience are creations of the OC Film Club. Comprised of eight production teams, club members fill roles of producers, writers, editors, actresses, and camera crew. Each month, the teams go to work on scripting, filming, and editing a component of their reality actresses experiences as OC students. Click on My OC and look for the latest downloads so you can watch some OC students in action!

Forensics

Moderator: Mr. Crock

Develop excellent communication skills, learn to think on your feet, analyze and present perspectives on contemporary issues and, most importantly, have fun! You can accomplish all these things and more as a member of OC’s Forensics Team. Whether you’re a trained rhetorician or just enjoy heated discussions, come hone your skills and experience the empowering effects of argumentation at our next meeting.

Forte

Moderator: Mrs. Kasunic

OC’s art and literary magazine appeals to every type of artist. The painter, poet, photographer, writer, doodler, not to mention the editor and designer, all find a place in this club that thrives on imaginative minds and creative spirits. Express your originality and share your forte through this innovative student publication.

French Club

Moderator: Mrs. Kasunic

Bienvenue a notre siteweb! The romance of the impressionists, the majesty of the architecture, and the delicacy of the cuisine are just a few of the elements of French culture explored by members of the French Club. At our meetings, members celebrate the rich language, history and traditions that characterize the French people through themed parties, field trips, and other activities. Students become acquainted with unique customs, foods, and beliefs, unmasking stereotypes while having fun with their fellow French enthusiasts!

Habitat For Humanity

Moderator: Ms. Newlin

As members of the Oakland Catholic Habitat for Humanity Campus Chapter, students in this internationally certified club help with everything from building projects and charitable collections to walk-a-thons and fundraisers. Join this worldwide organization and make a difference in countless lives.

Interact Club

Moderator: TBA

Most of us have the intention of helping out in our communities, we just need that extra push to get us started and keep us on track. The Interact Club contacts, schedules, and organizes volunteer activities for its members and other interested students. No more excuses get out and lend a hand!

Italian Club

Moderator: Dr. Puppo

Benvenuti! Members of this club celebrate all things Italian through further study of the language, participation in cultural events and organization of activities. From masterful artistry, rich cuisine and high fashion, to a fascinating political and religious history, to romantic music and dance, there is no end to a description of Italy’s wonderful heritage. Learn about Italian culture and traditions with friends, food and fun!

Latin Club

Moderator: Mr. Switala

Salve! One of the greatest empires in human history, this club makes sure to remind its members that there are many more manifestations of Roman culture in today’s society than just togas and Roman numerals. A dynamic history through eras of peace and conflict, the beautiful language of Ovid’s poetry, classic artistry and architecture, not to mention mythology and political drama all aspects of Roman culture come alive as we explore the customs, beliefs and artifacts of this ancient people.

M.A.P.S.

Moderator:

M.A.P.S. (Maximizing Adolescent Potentials) trains selected students to tap into their leadership abilities and use them to benefit their peers at OC. With a focus on conflict resolution, service, organization and guidance, M.A.P.S. members are encouraged to exercise the skills they learn in sessions with other Catholic High School students in their classes and school communities.

Masque

Moderator: Mr. McGrail

In conjunction with Central Catholic, OC students have the opportunity to audition for and participate in two stage productions a year, in the fall and spring, through the Masque. Previous experience is welcome but not required; dedication and enthusiasm are musts. Their continuously stellar reputation spread by cast members, stage crews and the general public makes all the hard work well worth it.

Media Club

Moderator: Dr. Puppo

OC’s Media Club provides students with news and announcements each morning during the homeroom period. Broadcasters and technicians keep their students informed, on-the-ball and entertained!

National Honor Society

Moderator: Dr. Puppo

Students are selected for membership in the National Honor Society for maintaining high averages, regularly volunteering their time and efforts, and demonstrating their moral fiber in everyday life at OC. In turn, they serve their school through peer tutoring and as commendable examples for those around them.

OC Record

Moderator: TBA

Investigative reporters, opinionated writers and methodical editors meet to create OC’s monthly school newspaper. The composition and organization of features, articles, columns and reviews provide beneficial experience for future journalists and entertain a devoted audience. Make your voice heard!

Outdoor Club

Moderator: Mr. Rostek

Most students are just itching to get out of the classroom at the end of a long day. But for those of you who find yourselves itching to get away from the city altogether, we invite you to join us on our monthly excursions into the great outdoors! OC’s Outdoor Club sponsors weekend trips that include activities like hiking, biking and canoeing. Our outings give members a healthy dose of fresh air, exercise and good company.

Passport Project

Moderator: Ms. McNulty

The Passport Project was created for experienced travelers and hopeful globetrotters. Although venturing abroad will earn you status points, there are plenty of events right here in Pittsburgh that can help better acquaint you with the international community. Global diplomats, ambassadors and foreign dignitaries all pass through our fair city. By attending lectures, staging assemblies and meeting notable speakers on foreign relations, members of the Passport Project become more familiar with our cross continent neighbors.

Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science.

Moderator: Mrs. Benedik

In the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, each student develops and completes an experimental study in one area of science, then presents her results and conclusions at the regional competition in a ten-minute oral presentation. Those who receive a first award may continue on to the state competition at Penn State where they have the opportunity to win scholarships, special awards, and other coveted prizes.

Prom Committee

Moderator: Ms. Teeters

Most people just worry about the date and the dress, but if you want your Junior and Senior Proms to be truly magical, it’s going to take a lot more than that. If you’re a party planner at heart and would like a say in the decisions that will help make the night more exciting and memorable for you and your classmates, join OC’s Prom Committee. Help us choose and organize venues, caterers, decorations, themes and much, much more to make your prom special!

Respect Life Club

Moderator: Ms. Brinzer

Members of the Respect for Life club promote a consistent ethic of life through discussion, education and activities that spread awareness. They address issues that range from abortion, chastity and euthanasia, to the conditions of the poor, the elderly and the disabled. Every person is a gift from God; it is not only our duty to love and respect others, but to encourage those around us to do the same.

S.A.D.D.

Moderator:

Students in SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) make a concerted effort to educate and influence their peers concerning the dangerous issues that affect them as teens, including alcohol and drug abuse. By sponsoring activities, assemblies and programs aimed at offering alternatives to these substances, SADD members create a network of support for those pressured to give in to temptation as well as a voice for their peers, so they can more easily choose to live alcohol and drug free.

Spanish Club

Moderator: Ms. Teeters

Bienvenido! Famous for flamenco, bullfights, tapas and sunshine, Spain attracts the attention of many with its wealth of fascinating customs and traditions. Members of OC’s Spanish Club experience all they can of Spanish culture in meetings and on field trips that center around authentic cuisine, dance, language, cinema and many other activities. Come explore this exciting culture with us!

Student Ambassadors

Moderator: Mrs. Mary Claire Kasunic

Do you represent OC well as a student, as a member of our community, in your behavior both in and out of school? Are you happy to be here and willing to volunteer some time to let prospective students know about our school? Then you may be a candidate for the Student Ambassador program! Based on faculty/staff recommendations, Student Ambassadors are invited to participate in this program where students serve as tour guides and role models for Oakland Catholic. The two major events at which Ambassadors provide assistance are the 8th Grade Visit Day and Open House, however, Student Ambassadors are called upon for shadow days throughout the year, special events that require student representation, and other instances where role models of an OC student are needed. Most ambassadors are in the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades; members from previous years must be reinvited each year in order to remain active in the program.

Student Council

Moderator: Mrs. Benedik

Being elected as a class representative or officer in OC’s Student Council is much more than just a feather in your cap. The embodiment of our student government, members serve as the liaisons between administration and the student body. They are also charged with encouraging student involvement in school events and exemplifying school spirit. With various committees, representatives have the opportunity to dedicate themselves to a task that compliments their talents and really make a difference in the school.

Ultimate Frisbee

Moderator: Mr. Patrizio

Come play ultimate frisbee with Mr. Patrizio.

World Affairs Council

Moderator: Ms. Cindy McNulty

The World Affairs Council Club acquaints interested students with foreign policy issues, diplomacy, current events and the international scene by giving them the opportunity to attend briefings offered by the World Affairs Council. They are also exposed to speakers and experts, both local and global, who broaden their views and challenge their perspectives.

Yearbook

Moderator: Ms. Sciacca

To ensure that no one ever forgets the good times spent at OC, our yearbook editors and staff meticulously plan, compose, design, proof, crop, scan and organize at meetings throughout the year. Hard work and dedication are necessary to make deadlines and complete projects along the way, but the fantastic reward is the appreciation of your classmates and the documentation of priceless memories.