F.A.D.E.
Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement (F.A.D.E.) Program

The Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement (F.A.D.E.) is a signature program unique to Bishop McNamara High School, designed for students who are passionate about the arts and committed to developing their creative talents. Through a combination of Fine Arts coursework, performances, exhibitions, and enriching artistic experiences, students refine their skills while becoming part of a vibrant community that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
Students who complete the program graduate with distinction, earning a Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement noted on their official transcript, a special certificate presented at the Senior Honors Convocation, and the prestigious F.A.D.E. Honor Cord to wear at graduation.
Beyond the classroom, F.A.D.E. students participate in school and community performances and exhibitions, attend the BMHS Guest Artist Series, and engage with accomplished artists representing a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds. These experiences broaden students' perspectives, inspire artistic growth, and deepen their appreciation for the arts.
The program culminates in the F.A.D.E. Senior Showcase, where graduating seniors share their artistic journey and talents with fellow students, families, and the Bishop McNamara community.
More than an endorsement, F.A.D.E. is an opportunity to challenge yourself creatively, connect with a community of passionate artists, and graduate with a distinguished recognition that celebrates your dedication to the arts.
For program Requirements visit: BMHS Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement Program Requirements
Class of 2029: Please click here for the application! Deadline: Sept. 8.
F.A.D.E. Students: order your F.A.D.E. Dinner here—> F.A.D.E. Dinner Payment - Step Afrika!
2026-2027 Guest Artist Series Dates
- Step Afrika - September 21, 2026
- Guest Artist (To be announced) - October 6, 2026
- F.A.D.E. Special Event - December 2026
- Guest Artist (To be announced) - January 25, 2027
- Dr. Chelsey Green - February 24, 2027
Guest Artist Series
The Fine Arts Department is proud to present an annual series of distinguished guest artists who bring their artistry, expertise, and perspectives to the Bishop McNamara community. Throughout the year, we welcome visual artists, dancers, instrumentalists, singers, actors, and other accomplished artists to share their work, perform, and engage in meaningful conversation with our students and community.
The Guest Artist Series also serves as the colloquium component of the Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement (F.A.D.E.) Program, providing students with opportunities to learn directly from working artists and deepen their understanding and appreciation of the arts.
All events in the series are free and open to the entire BMHS community. Each evening features a performance, presentation, and/or discussion, followed by an engaging question-and-answer session that invites members of our community to connect directly with the featured artist.

Alisha Peek '13, Dancer, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre

Nova Y Payton '98, Singer, Broadway Actor

Mya, Grammy Award Winning entertainer & philanthropist

Saz Ross, Illustrator, Artist

Dupont Brass, Musicians

Visual Artist, Cheryl Foster

Bridging the Gap, Musicians

Karla Garcia, Broadway Dancer

Jalon Faith Malonte, Actor

The Lyric Brass, Musicians

Rhythmaya Dance, Indian Dance

John Donato, Artist
Support BMHS Fine Arts
Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, these regionally renowned fine arts programs continue to make a difference for our students.
If you would like to consider a donation to our Fine Arts Department, or to a specific program or event, please select the button "Donate to BMHS Fine Arts" and follow these steps:
- Choose your donation amount.
- Go to "Designate your gift."
- Pick the specific program or event you wish to support in the dropdown.
Thank you for your incredible generosity!




