As the school year started at Archbishop Carroll, some teachers joined the staff after others left. One teacher who left the theology department was Mr. Louis Valenti, who was well known for teaching seniors. Now teaching senior theology is Deacon Michael Fohner.
Deacon Fohner, who is married and has four children, has an undergraduate degree in engineering. While working as an engineer, he went away from his family to serve in the Navy. Deacon Fohner was ordained a deacon in June of last year after retiring from the military. Just a few months ago, he was hired as a theology teacher at Carroll.
Students’ reports of him have been positive. Students said that he interacts with them well.
“He uses humor, engages with the class, and is an overall good teacher who’s easily approachable,” said senior Brandon Rivera.
Students also said Deacon Fohner is an active, engaging teacher.
“The class has been going good so far,” said senior Nathaniel Folarin.
Deacon Fohner has expressed passion for his new job. He said that he felt inspired by his children’s attendance at Carroll, and he enjoyed the sense of community at the school.
“Watching our boys (Matthew ’16, David ’17, Daniel ’19, and Mark ’25) grow up here, it made this teaching opportunity at Carroll all the more special,” he said.
Deacon Fohner said that he hoped to teach seniors the importance of the history of the Church while also helping them with their faith life. He said his role as deacon enabled him to support more aspects of Carroll’s life. For example, he served as a deacon on Tuesday’s school Mass.
“My goal is to help the seniors in my class grow in their relationship with God…and to have some fun along the way!” he said.
