Athas Named Diocese of Dallas Educator of the Year 

Bishop Lynch High School is proud to announce that longtime faculty member and alumnus John Athas ’81 was named 2026 Distinguished Educator of the Year by the Diocese of Dallas Catholic Schools Office during the April 24 celebration dinner and award ceremony. 

This annual honor is awarded to three educators within the Diocese of Dallas’ elementary and secondary schools who exemplify the mission and ministry of Catholic schools, forming students as saints and scholars through academic instruction and involvement beyond the classroom. 

An alumnus of Bishop Lynch, Athas first cultivated his interest in theater as a student in the late 1970s, performing in the school’s production of “Curtain Going Up” under the direction of Br. Roger. He later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theater from Southern Methodist University and pursued work in Los Angeles before ultimately committing to a career in education. 

Since returning to Bishop Lynch in 1995, Athas has directed more than 50 productions while contributing to the development of the school’s McGonigle and Blackbox Theatres. He has introduced distinctive programs such as the Catholic Rock Music Project and has influenced countless students, many of whom have gone on to careers in education and the performing arts. A dedicated member of the Bishop Lynch community, he is also a proud parent of four Friars: Luke Athas ’15, Sophie Athas Pecha ’13, Veronica, Class of 2027, and current faculty member Joseph Athas. 

“I have always wanted to leave the world better than I found it, and teaching, being, and living in Catholic education has given me the opportunity to make that possible,” shared Athas. “If I can inspire my students and colleagues through my teaching and life to live deeply and profoundly their Catholic faith in all they think and do, that gives me the greatest hope and joy.” 

In addition to Athas’ award, two Bishop Lynch alumni were honored. Hassie Wortham ’14 from St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic School in Plano, Texas, and Tommy Barton ’06 from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School in Dallas, Texas, received the evening’s two honorable mention awards. 

Bishop Lynch is proud to cultivate a student experience that extends beyond instruction into a deeper formation rooted in the Dominican pillars of prayer, study, community and service. These educators embody Bishop Lynch’s commitment to excellence as they form a new generation of young people to embrace the virtues of scholarship and service.