By Kathy Chouteau
Salesian College Preparatory celebrated a long-anticipated groundbreaking Friday, Oct. 17, for the Michael Oddo and Jennifer Oddo Pavilion, described as a future hub for student life and community engagement.
The Pavilion will be a state-of-the-art, multipurpose facility featuring a 1,400-seat arena, a full collegiate sized basketball court and two full size practice courts, a dance studio, a fully equipped music center, an athletic training room, a strength and conditioning center and more. The pavilion’s extra space and modern amenities will enable the schoool to host more athletic events, performances and graduation ceremonies. Construction is anticipated for completion by Nov. 1, 2026.
Friday’s groundbreaking ceremony, which began in the school’s gym, featured remarks from school leaders and students who highlighted the significance of the project and the legacy it will create for generations of Salesian students. The Oddo family, whose support made the pavilion possible, were specially recognized for their record-setting alumni gift, which propelled the ambitious project forward.
Addressing attendees in the gym, Salesian’s Physical Education Department Chair and Varsity Boys Basketball Head Coach Bill Mellis acknowledged the long-standing need for the new pavilion and the positive impact it will have on the school community. He emphasized that while the current gym has served Salesian well for decades, the new pavilion will offer much-needed space and resources for students, athletes and performers.
School President Stephen Pezzola, JD, spoke about the vision behind the project and the importance of community support, saying, “Today we break ground on the multiuse pavilion, which has been dreamed about for decades.” He expressed appreciation to the project’s various crucial donors, including the pavilion’s namesake supporters, the Oddos.
To date, $15 million has been raised, with an additional $3 million needed to complete the pavilion and address other critical needs on campus. The project’s architect is Mihmic Architecture, the construction company is McNely Construction. Pezzola said the pavilion is dedicated to all past and present students.
Student Body President Leia Atendido spoke passionately about the school’s tradition and the promise the new pavilion holds for future generations. “Salesian is not only our past, nor is it just the present, but more importantly, it’s the future,” she said, urging her peers to leave the school even greater for those who will follow.
After the indoor program, attendees moved outside to the site of the future pavilion, where the student body surrounded the project’s perimeter. Father Mel Trinidad, provincial of the U.S. Western Province, offered a blessing for the project. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic groundbreaking, as the Oddos and other school dignitaries turned the first shovels of dirt, marking the official start of construction.
Salesian encouraged support for the high school’s future on its website. “Boldly stepping forward in faith, we invite you to secure your legacy on our campus. Together, let us continue to dream boldly, give generously, and build a legacy of faith and excellence that will inspire future Salesian scholars and leaders for years to come.”
Naming opportunities are available throughout the new facility and other campus locations for those wishing to honor loved ones or leave a lasting mark on Salesian’s mission.
To contribute to the project, give here. Contact Stephen Pezzola, JD, at [email protected] about a naming legacy.
