History
A LEGACY OF FAITH
OUR HISTORY
1951-1960
1950
A School Is Born
Central Catholic High School opened its doors with Sister Mary Mercedes as principal.
1951
Choosing the School Colors
Kelly green and white were chosen as the official school colors.
1955
Our Identity Takes Shape
The "Irish" nickname was adopted, and Clancy became the official mascot.
1959
Honoring Our Founder
Central Catholic High School was renamed Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School in honor of the school's founder, Bishop Eugene J. McGuinness.
1960
Campus Growth and New Traditions
Construction of the auditorium began. The school hosted the first Olympics and McGuinness Classic Tournament. "Forever McGuinness" was written.
1961-1970
1961
Faith and Tradition Take Root
The School Crest is laid in the entry floor. The first Mass is held in the auditorium, and Senior Robing is introduced.
1965
Innovations in Learning and Tradition
Color photographs appeared in the school yearbook for the first time, and the school’s first language lab was installed.
1966
A New Graduation Tradition
Graduation is held in the auditorium for the first time.
1968
A Historic First in Athletics
Bishop McGuinness became the first private school admitted into the OSSAA
1971-1980
1970
A Test of Resilience
In April, a powerful tornado struck the Bishop McGuinness campus, causing significant damage and completely destroying the rectory. In the face of loss, the McGuinness community came together with faith, strength, and determination to begin the journey of rebuilding.
1981-1990
1984
Expanding Support
The REACH Program is established to provide targeted support, guidance, and remedial instruction for qualifying students with learning differences.
1984
The First State Title
Boys Cross Country captured the first state championship in school history, marking a major milestone for the program. At the same time, the gymnasium received an exciting upgrade with the addition of a new lobby, enhancing the experience for students, families, and fans.
1987
Running Towards the Future
The track and field complex is completed, giving student-athletes a new home to train and compete.
1987
A Tradition of Giving
The school’s first fundraising auction is held, launching a lasting tradition of community support and shared investment in the mission of Bishop McGuinness.
1991-2000
1992
A Space to Create and Learn
Construction is completed on the Theology Wing and Art Center, providing new spaces that support students.
1995
Faith Takes Root
The first Kairos retreat is held, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is chosen as the school’s patron, and “Towards the Top” is adopted as the school motto—marking a defining moment in the spiritual life of the McGuinness community.
1996
A National Milestone
The cheerleading team receives its first bid to Nationals.
1998
A Sacred Space Dedicated
The Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Chapel is completed, providing a permanent and prayerful home for worship, reflection, and spiritual life at Bishop McGuinness.
1999
Academic Excellence Achieved
The academic team captures its first state championship for Bishop McGuinness.
2001-2010
2002
A Stage Reimagined
The auditorium undergoes significant renovations and is officially named the Petuskey Performing Arts Auditorium, elevating the space for performances, gatherings, and the arts.
2003
Uniformed Identity
School uniforms are adopted.
2007
The Old Turns New
Construction on the new building is completed, and the original East Wing is removed, unveiling a new front entrance and circle drive.
2008
Go Big Green
Sports Illustrated ranks Bishop McGuinness as the 11th best athletic program in the country, coinciding with a major gym renovation that further elevates training, competition, and school pride.
2011-2020
2015
Learning Innovations
iPads are introduced as part of the school’s 1:1 iPad initiative, becoming a lasting and essential learning tool that enhances instruction and student engagement across classrooms.
2016
Raising the Standard
The all-girls sports complex is completed, featuring dedicated practice spaces for cheer and pom, locker rooms, visitor concessions, and restrooms—expanding opportunities and support for female student-athletes.
2019
Recognized for Value-Driven Excellence
The school receives the 2019 Values-Driven Award of Excellence from Cognia, honoring its commitment to faith-based leadership, character formation, and academic integrity.
2020
Distanced Learning
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the school quickly adapted to distance learning, continuing classes through Zoom throughout the spring semester while maintaining connection, consistency, and care for students.
2021-2030
2022
Expanding Spaces for Learning and Community
The library renovation project begins, alongside a 1,200-square-foot expansion to the Fine Arts Wing and the addition of a softball concession stand and ticket booth, enhancing both academic and athletic experiences.
2024
Opening a New Chapter
The Southeast Wing opens in time for the start of the 2024–25 school year, marking a milestone addition to campus as Bishop McGuinness celebrates its 75th anniversary.
2025
Clancy's Closet Opens
The school store opens in the front entrance of the school as Clancy’s Closet, creating a new place for all to shop for Irish spirit!
2025
St. Pier Giorgio, pray for us!
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati's canonization was held on September 8, 2025. Our Students celebrated the historic moments by handing out custom stickers and bags of candy.
Founded in 1950, Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School has grown, evolved, and reimagined itself across generations, while remaining steadfast in its mission.
Through new buildings, programs, and milestones, one thing has never changed: a commitment to educating the whole person and forming students to live as persons for others.
For more than seven decades, Bishop McGuinness has stood as a leader in Catholic education in Oklahoma, known for academic excellence, strong faith formation, and a vibrant community that supports students well beyond graduation. Here, faith and values are woven into every aspect of school life, shaping not only what students learn, but who they become.
The impact of a McGuinness education lasts far beyond four years. It is found in alumni who lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and carry their faith into the world. Generation after generation, the Bishop McGuinness community continues to leave its mark on hearts, families, and communities, living out a legacy that remains as strong today as it was in 1950.