As Alessandra Dardeno ’25 prepares to graduate from Lexington Christian Academy this year, she will become the 10th member of her family to do so—a remarkable milestone that underscores the Dardeno family’s multi-decade commitment to LCA. Their legacy is a testament to the academy’s lasting impact on generations of students.
Alessandra’s LCA Journey
Alessandra has thrived at LCA since joining in the 7th grade. Now a senior, she is leaving her mark on the school through her leadership and involvement. She serves as the Yearbook Editor, a teacher’s assistant in the Art Room, and a trusted key holder for the past five years. Beyond academics, Alessandra’s passion for athletics shines through her participation in multiple sports. She has been a three-season athlete, playing on the varsity field hockey, JV basketball, varsity cross country, and varsity softball teams. She even served as the manager of the varsity boys’ wrestling team. She shared:
“I have been fortunate to know who God is and have a personal relationship with Him from a young age. I count it a blessing to have had the unique opportunity of attending Lexington Christian Academy for 6 years, which allowed my middle and high school education to be built on a Christ-centered foundation. I feel the responsibility to share what I have learned (Luke 12:48) and know that I am called to continue to grow in Christ after my LCA days as I embark on this next phase of life, wherever it may take me. I know my LCA experience will be a guiding beacon for years to come (Psalm 119:105).”
The Start of a Legacy
The Dardeno family’s journey with LCA began nearly 50 years ago when Alessandra’s paternal grandfather sought a better, faith-based education for his son, Ronald A. Dardeno, in the mid-1970s. That decision laid the foundation for a tradition of academic and spiritual growth that has shaped the lives of 10 family members across multiple generations. Each graduate has pursued higher education and excelled in their respective fields. Ron reflects on his 50-year relationship with LCA with these words:
“I came to know and receive Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior at LCA. I credit LCA for my academic development and ability to make wise and fruitful decisions throughout my life. I am proud to be a member of the LCA family and greatly blessed that my family has been so deeply rooted in this fine institution. I am so grateful for the entire LCA community and its past members for their commitment and service to the Lord. You are a wonderful blessing to my family and the entire community.”
Both Ronald and Alessandra’s siblings attended LCA, as well as Alessandra’s cousins. Here is a look at the Dardeno family’s LCA graduates and their impressive accomplishments:
- Ronald A. Dardeno (LCA Class of ’79)—Attorney. Boston College; Suffolk University Law School.
- Paul Dardeno (LCA Class of ’82)—Physician. Clark University; Ross University School of Medicine.
- Kara Dardeno (LCA Class of ’02)—Attorney. Tufts University; Suffolk University Law School.
- Marie Dardeno (LCA Class of ’04)—Physician. University of Vermont; University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.
- Tina Dardeno (LCA Class of ’05)—Postdoctoral Biomedical Researcher. Northeastern University; University of Massachusetts Lowell (MS, PhD).
- John DiFrancesco (LCA Class of ’07)—Law Enforcement Officer. Suffolk University; New Hampshire Police Academy.
- Franca DiFrancesco (LCA Class of ’10)—Real Estate Professional. Quinnipiac University (BA).
- Ronald V. Dardeno (LCA Class of ’22)—Student at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst School of Public Health (Major: Public Health, Minor Biology).
- Elisabeth Dardeno (LCA Class of ’23)—Student at Bentley University, Women in Leadership Program (Major: Economics with a concentration in Law, Minor in Italian).
A Testimony to LCA’s Impact
For the Dardeno family, LCA has been more than just a school; it has been a place where faith, education, and community come together to nurture well-rounded individuals. Each member of the family credits LCA with providing a strong educational foundation and fostering values that have guided them in their personal and professional lives.
As Alessandra prepares to walk across the stage at her graduation, she carries with her not only her own achievements but also the rich legacy of her family. The Dardeno story is a shining example of how LCA can have a profound and lasting impact on generations. For LCA, it’s a reminder of the transformative power of its mission and the importance of cultivating a community where students and families can thrive.
LCA will miss both Alessandra’s presence and having a Dardeno family member at the school, but her legacy—and that of her family—will continue to inspire future generations at LCA. Hopefully, there will be an 11th family member at LCA someday! Here’s to celebrating the past, present, and future of the Dardeno family’s LCA journey.