It seems as though it is a battle for survival every year for Northern Chautauqua Catholic School. As it stands, the facility remains the only Catholic school in Chautauqua County as the other locations could not sustain.

Despite its success, NCCS needs more assistance. This week, the school announced the launch of Campaign 157, an effort to strengthen and sustain private Catholic education in Chautauqua County. The campaign marks the 157-year anniversary of the completion of the school’s historic building originally called Columbus Hall — perhaps the oldest private elementary school building in use in New York state.

Campaign 157, a news item noted, celebrates the school’s deep roots while looking ahead to ensure the future of faith-based learning in the region. As part of the initiative, NCCS will rename the school building in honor of a major benefactor, recognizing the vital support that has sustained the institution for over a century and a half.

“The Northern Chautauqua Catholic School has been a cornerstone of faith and education for generations,” said Principal Paul Pinto. “Campaign 157 is both a celebration of our legacy and a call to action — to ensure that Catholic education continues to thrive in our community for generations to come.”

Campaign 157 begins with the announcement of its first $25,000 leadership donation. This milestone gift symbolizes a strong start toward the campaign’s dual mission: increasing enrollment and expanding philanthropic support

Campaign 157 invites all alumni, parishioners, and community members to share in NCCS’s mission of providing exceptional Catholic education rooted in faith, service, and academic excellence – available to all.

For more information about NCCS and Campaign 157, please contact: Pinto, Principal and Chief Operating Officer at Northern Chautauqua Catholic School, 336 Washington Ave., Dunkirk, NY 14048. call 716-366-0630 or 716-949-9082 or email is ppinto@nccschool.us.

What’s happened over the years at NCCS is the culmination of hard work, determination – and, as usual, a lot of faith.