Our Work

This year’s CSF Christmas card has an extra-special touch—it's being designed by one of our very own scholars, Nicole Guzman-DeFusco, a junior at Central Catholic High School and the school’s November Artist of the Month. With her signature bright colors, textured materials, and nostalgic themes, Nicole’s work has the rare ability to make people feel something. And that’s exactly what she hopes for.

“I want people to connect with my artwork,” Nicole shared. “A lot of my classmates tell me my pieces remind them of their own childhood. That means a lot to me.”

Nicole’s journey with Catholic education began in kindergarten at Lawrence Catholic Academy. She credits those early years with shaping both her faith and her character.

“There’s such a strong sense of community,” she said. “Hearing prayer on the intercom every day and learning how to treat others with kindness—it really shaped my morals from a young age.”

Nicole later became part of CSF’s pilot program supporting students who wished to continue into Catholic high schools. Thanks to that opportunity, she found her home at Central Catholic.

“We were super excited,” Nicole said. “Without CSF, I wouldn’t have this opportunity. I love Central—the morning prayer, the Masses, the community. It means so much to be part of it.”

Now in the Class of 2027, Nicole is enrolled in five honors and AP classes, including AP Art, which allows her to grow as an artist during the school day.

Her current portfolio explores the theme of “girlhood”—shared memories, cultural identity, and the joys and challenges of growing up. She has been recreating childhood photos, photographing her younger cousin in whimsical dress-up scenes, and experimenting with different materials to add dimension to her pieces.

Her gallery display at Central Catholic’s Thomas '50 and Marie Catalano Memorial Library and includes mixed-media works featuring string, ribbon, textured paper, and symbolic religious imagery. One of her favorite pieces depicts her and Jesus reading the Bible, a warm, nostalgic portrait that blends her faith with her creativity.

Nicole’s teacher recognized her talent and nominated her for Artist of the Month.

“I was so excited,” Nicole said. “It was really special to be recognized.”

Nicole’s artistic expression doesn’t stop with visual arts, she also stepped into theater last year, performing in Elf the Musical.

“It pushed me out of my comfort zone,” she laughed. “But it was really fun, and I might even do the musical again in the spring!”

Looking Ahead

As she approaches senior year, Nicole has big dreams. She is considering schools like Boston College, Boston University, and NYU, and is interested in pursuing art professionally—possibly graphic design, interior design, or even teaching elementary school art.

She’s also looking forward to milestones like the spring art show (where AP Art students host their own tables), prom, senior traditions, and even getting her driver’s license this summer.

But right now, she’s especially excited about one project:

Designing the 2025 CSF Christmas Card

Nicole already has ideas in motion—and we can’t wait to share them.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity,” she said. “I can’t wait for people to see it!”

We are honored to spotlight Nicole and her incredible talent. Her creativity, humility, and vibrant spirit are a shining example of what CSF scholars can achieve when given the opportunity to grow and thrive.

Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing Nicole’s Christmas card design soon. See a gallery of her artwork below.