McNicholas Crowns 2026 Mardi Gras King and Queen

McNicholas celebrated its 74th annual Mardi Gras on Sunday, Feb. 15, highlighted by the crowning of King Caleb Naumann and Queen Grace Mastruserio.

This year’s theme, Empowering Compassion, invited the school community to reflect on the many ways McNicholas students live out compassion each day. Emcee and faculty member Mrs. Jenni Tumser shared inspiring examples of Christian service performed by students throughout the year, while also honoring the rich tradition of service established by the Sisters of St. Joseph.

The evening recognized 56 students who served on the royal court and as honor guards, celebrating not only their leadership but the spirit of the entire McNicholas community. The annual tradition continues to showcase the school’s commitment to faith, service, and unity.

Click here to view the full court listing.

Mister Caleb Naumann

King Caleb Naumann exemplifies leadership, scholarship, and service at McNicholas High School. A four-year Dean’s List student, Caleb has completed 81 hours of community service while balancing an exceptional athletic and extracurricular career. On the football field, he is a four-year athlete and varsity captain who made school history as the single-season All-Time Leading Rusher and All-Purpose Yards Leader. His accomplishments earned him GCL Offensive Player of the Year, First Team recognition at the GCL, district, city, and state levels, two-time Cincinnati Enquirer Player of the Week, Skyline Chili Crosstown MVP, Sports Performance Top Athlete distinction, and the prestigious Rocket Award. He also served as the basketball team captain during his one year on the team.

Beyond athletics, Caleb’s leadership has shaped the McNicholas community. He has served as sophomore and junior class president and as Student Body President, demonstrating a commitment to servant leadership. A CREW Captain and member of the CREW Leadership Team, he has also contributed to the Homecoming and prom committees, served as a freshman retreat leader and Mass server, and represented the school as a student ambassador. His academic and creative achievements include Kevin Vanderbush All-American recognition, the George Eastman Young Leaders Award, a Scholastic Art and Writing Silver Key award, Latin Student of the Year, and earning the Latin Global Seal of Biliteracy credential. A member of the National Honor Society and Homecoming Court, Caleb’s legacy is marked by excellence, integrity, and dedication to others.

Miss Grace Mastruserio

Queen Grace Mastruserio has distinguished herself as a compassionate leader, dedicated scholar, and tireless servant of the McNicholas community. A four-year Dean’s List or honor roll student, Gracie has completed an impressive 295 hours of community service, including 22 hours serving residents at The Ashton at Anderson Senior Living Center. A three-year lacrosse player and one-year volleyball player, she also contributed behind the scenes to the musical crew.

Grace’s leadership extends beyond the classroom and the lacrosse field. A four-year Class/FLIGHT Captain and member of the CREW Leadership Team, she serves as Class of 2026 Social Media Editor, peer mentor, student ambassador, and international ambassador. Her global perspective includes serving as an American Youth Ambassador to China and participating on the Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls. She is the founder of the StrongHer Together Women’s Empowerment Club and serves as President of Rocket Lighthouse. Deeply committed to faith and service, Gracie is a Eucharistic minister, Kairos rector, freshman retreat leader, member of the St. Vincent de Paul Youth Conference, and participant in the Mayerson Foundation Youth Leadership Service Conference. Her many honors include Spanish Student of the Month, Scholastic Writing Honorable Mention, the KeepGoing25 Service Grant Award, and the Sheila Perry Helping Heart Scholarship. A St. Joseph Scholar and member of the science, math, Spanish, and National Honor Societies, as well as Homecoming Court, Gracie embodies faith-filled leadership and a heart for service.