Gibbons Magazine: Fall/Winter 2022-23

GIBBONS

CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL MAGAZINE 2022-2023

Freshman Welcome Day

Hugs and high fives abound when students arrive for their first day of high school at Cardinal Gibbons. It’s a tradition that’s become a rite of passage. Incoming ninth-grade students are greeted by upperclassmen welcoming them to our community - a moment months in the making as the seasoned students spend the summer planning ways to make the morning meaningful. The smiles are genuine and the excitement is palpable. This is Gibbons. This is family.

A NIGHT TO Remember

ADMINISTRATION

Most Reverend Luis Rafael Zarama

Bishop of the Diocese of Raleigh

Lytia Reese

Superintendent of Catholic Formation & Education, Diocese of Raleigh

Jeff Bell Head of School

Editor Sarah Hardin Director of Communications and Marketing

Alumni Editor

Susan Leigh ’87 Director of Alumni Advancement

Advancement Editor

Anna White Hosea

Director of Strategic Initiatives & Parent Giving

Editing

Jenny Hammond, Mike Watson, Suzanne Lewis

Photography

Azul Photography, Becky Kirkland

Justin Kase Conder, Gibbons Media, and Jason Philyaw

Project Manager

Jenny Hammond

GIBBONS is published by Cardinal Gibbons High School for its parents, students, alumni, and friends.

CONTACT US

We welcome your ideas and feedback. Please send suggestions or comments to Sarah Hardin at communications@cghsnc.org.

OAK TO ALTAR

Front cover: Father Luke Rawicki joined Cardinal Gibbons as the full time chaplain this school year. His daily presence has already had a

Dear Gibbons Community,

Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of Gibbons Magazine. We are excited to share some of the happenings and goings-on here on campus. It has been a tremendous year; we are very blessed and have much to celebrate.

We were excited to welcome our full-time chaplain, Father Luke Rawicki, this fall. Fr. Luke has made an indelible mark on Gibbons already. He celebrates daily Mass, teaches a course, and profoundly energizes our spiritual life program. You can find Fr. Luke at games, plays, concerts, and running with the cross country team. He has been a fantastic addition to Cardinal Gibbons.

We have made significant progress on our strategic plan, specifically in Catholic identity, academics, health and wellness, and community impact. In addition, we have crafted an Academic Philosophy and a Portrait of a Learner that closely aligns with our mission. Next, we are embarking on a campus master plan that will help us to envision the future of our current spaces and future facilities.

The next time you are on campus, we encourage you to spend some time in our Spiritual Life Center, located in the front lobby in the heart of the school, and check out the new Student Lounge, which you can find right outside our Deans of Students offices. These spaces constantly remind us of our two greatest priorities: our faith and our students.

We continue to be a Catholic school strongly rooted in our core values of faith, service, and leadership. We are committed to continuing to evolve so we can stay the best possible school for our current and future students: faith-filled, safe, and joyful.

Please enjoy the pages that follow and learn about some of the amazing accomplishments of our students, educators, and alums.

Jeff Bell, Head of School

Mission Moments

A joyful song unto the Lord

MUSIC MINISTRY GROUP ENHANCES THE WORSHIP EXPERIENCE

Theology educator Mark DeLaRosa has long been a fixture at school Mass celebrations, providing liturgical music that’s both prayerful and joyful.

About eight years ago, Allison Baumgartner ‘19 asked if she could join. The two slowly started recruiting other students.

“We had violinists, guitarists, a flutist, and choir members for our first group,” DeLaRosa said.

Today, the group has swelled to about 20 members. A dozen rotating members play every Friday morning at 7:30 a.m. Mass in the school’s Queen of All Saints Chapel.

“One of the great blessings of serving as a Catholic educator is being able to worship with our community in our chapel — providing music and fellowship among our Music Ministry members is a bonus to our liturgies,” DeLaRosa said. “We always have a good time together, and our friendships have deepened because of our service.”

Vocalist Nina LeMoine ‘23, a dedicated member of the group since her sophomore year, has experienced the power of the group to grow faith and friendship.

“When you join, you are welcomed with open arms, and you feel like you are part of a family at Gibbons that’s able to make people feel good during Mass and other times, hopefully,” she said.

Andy Hawks, the school’s orchestra director, leads the group alongside DeLaRosa. The Music Ministry has taught him much about music’s role in Mass.

“We as musicians are blessed with the opportunity to employ our talents to serve God and our community,” he said. “As stewards of the Liturgical music, the most important instrument in our Church is the congregation.”

For Gary Meyerl ‘82, assistant head of school for spiritual life, the orchestration of the Gibbons Music Ministry — blending voices with strings, brass, and percussion — has enhanced the school’s prayer and worship in unexpected ways.

“The students and educators who share their God-given gifts with our community really do help us offer up a joyful song unto the Lord,” he said.

-Sarah Hardin

“St. Augustine famously stated, ‘Singing is praying twice.’ I think he meant that playing music and encouraging singing lifts our voices to the Lord in a very special and meaningful way.”

-Mark DeLaRosa Music Ministry moderator and Theology educator

Mission Moments Beginning & Beyond

More than a decade ago, a group of freshmen at Cardinal Gibbons began visiting Beginning & Beyond, a childcare center in Raleigh’s historic district that offers preschool and after-school care for young children living in traditionally lowincome neighborhoods.

Under the guidance of Mrs. Agnes Penny, the school’s former director of outreach, the students volunteered at the center one morning a week, serving as teaching assistants and advancing the center’s mission to serve children in the community through education, meals, and play.

But before long, the student volunteers were looking for more ways to get involved.

“In 2014, a group of freshmen decided they wanted to return to Beginning & Beyond to tutor the children after school. Initially, they had about four or five student volunteers, but over time, the number grew exponentially,” said Gary Meyerl ’82, assistant head of school for spiritual life. “What began as an idea shared amongst friends turned into a weekly service opportunity offered through the Gibbons chapter of Franciscan Youth International.”

Today, Gibbons takes 25-30 student volunteers each week to serve the center’s children and help them grow in their academic development.

On Thursday afternoons, the student volunteers gather in the Spiritual Life Center to share a snack and enjoy community building time before heading to Beginning & Beyond for tutoring at 4:15 p.m. Volunteers supporting school-aged students assist with homework assignments, while those working with preschool-aged children work on colors, number and letter identification, spelling, math, and more.

Senior Jennifer Tran ‘23 has served as a volunteer since her freshman year and is now proud to serve as one of the program’s student leaders.

“The ability to tutor these children after school through Cardinal Gibbons is special, and I feel so fortunate that we are able to give back to this community.”

She credits the volunteer experience for helping her to grow as an individual – both physically and spiritually – through service.

SERVICE

“Beginning & Beyond has taught me a lot of life lessons that I will forever be grateful for, and working with families who are less fortunate makes me thankful and blessed for all that I have in my life,” she said.

Fellow senior and program student-leader, Nick Adams ‘23, agrees.

“The Beginning & Beyond outreach program is an amazing opportunity for students to dedicate a few hours of their Thursday afternoons to tutor and be critical role models for the children at the childcare center,” Adams said. “This year, I’ve been fortunate to work with the same child every week, which has allowed me to make a personal connection.

“Aside from tutoring him in math and reading, we’ve also been able to bond over shared interests, like Marvel superheroes and football.”

And while time spent with children at weekly tutoring sessions brings the student-volunteers great joy, it’s the experiences in service, leadership, and community that they’ll carry with them well beyond their high school years.

“I’ve always believed that Gibbons’ students could learn valuable lessons from volunteering at Beginning & Beyond, whether from an isolated visit or working with a certain student week to week,” Joey Taffe ’19, former program volunteer, said. “Most of the children at the center have very different childhood experiences than the average Gibbons’ student – experiences that are important in recognizing the diversity of perspective in our local community.”

Taffe’s time at Beginnings & Beyond led to some of his best high school experiences.

“I made lasting friendships and learned valuable lessons that have motivated me to continue volunteering after high school,” he said. “It’s an incredible program, and I am very grateful to have been a part of it.”

To learn more about service at Gibbons, visit cghsnc.org/outreach.

-Stephanie Policastro

“Most of the children at the center have very different childhood experiences than the average Gibbons’ student – experiences that are important in recognizing the diversity of perspective in our local community.”

JOEY TAFFE ’19

LEADERSHIP

Mission Moments

A Brewing Business

HOLY GROUNDS BUILDS COMMUNITY AND ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

Since opening in early 2022, Holy Grounds has been Cardinal Gibbon’s go-to spot for coffee and tea, healthy snacks, and conversations with friends and classmates. But behind the counter, the student-run business venture is so much more.

Sponsored by iCube (Innovative Crusaders Understanding Business and Entrepreneurship) and Jim Baker, former Gibbons parent and business owner, Holy Grounds was established to provide the Gibbons community with healthier food and beverage options – and to give students an experiential business learning opportunity.

“We piloted the concept in several ways over the years, but with support from our head of school, we opened Holy Grounds last spring,” said iCube moderator Brent Nolan ’05. “The shop initially

began serving customers every other morning, but before long, it became a staple of the Gibbons community – with hours of operation every morning and afternoon.”

Staffed with a student leadership team and a cohort of nearly 150 student volunteers working shifts this semester, Holy Grounds is truly a student-run endeavor. From making beverages and fulfilling snack orders to doing finances, inventory, and interviews, Gibbons students work together to make the business operations run smoothly.

“Our students really own it, and that’s why I believe it’s been such a hit,” said Nolan. “They’ve done an incredible job identifying what their target customers want and working hard to provide a personalized service for them.”

Senior Hailey Juhasz ‘23, a Holy Grounds leadership team member, joined the shop last fall after learning about the opportunity in a business management elective course. In addition to interacting with fellow students, her role in supporting the shop’s marketing efforts has allowed her to learn about the many aspects of running a small business.

“We’re responsible for opening and closing every day, which means that the staff has to practice time management by showing up on time and being prepared to work a scheduled shift,” she said. “We develop an understanding of customer service by communicating with a positive attitude and friendly demeanor.”

The staff is also responsible for taking inventory and keeping track of needed supplies.

“Holy Grounds has provided me with a better understanding of the skills necessary to run a successful business, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it,” Juhasz said.

Junior Rebecca Berry ‘24, the Holy Grounds CEO, started as a barista at the shop last year.

“This year, I’ve moved into a leadership position –brainstorming new ideas to improve the shop and managing volunteers – which has required me to dive deeper into what running a business means,” Berry said.

Berry said that stepping into her new role has helped her grow as a student and leader – and she’s certain these experiences will benefit her in the years ahead.

“Holy Grounds provides students with a business learning opportunity and a unique environment to meet new people and grow from your experiences,” she said. “I am confident the shop has played a big part in how I am today and how I will act in future jobs, relationships, and other leadership roles.

“The lessons I’ve learned through working with customers and my team will, without a doubt, continue to help me in life.”

And, to Nolan, that’s the point.

“My favorite thing about the shop is that nearly 100 transactions occur per day, which means there are a lot of student-to-student interactions,” he says. “This allows both parties to practice communication, gratitude, relationship building, and much more.”

-Stephanie Policastro

FARMER, EDUCATOR, CHANGE AGENT

ALUMNUS SOWS SEEDS IN LOCAL FOOD DESERTS

Bell realized that for many communities in the area, there was not only an income gap, but also a food gap that he wanted to help fill. He also realized that students from these communities would benefit from having access to a space that caters specifically to them, that honors their experiences and their needs in a way few other institutions can.

“We are defying the odds by introducing a sustainable farming business model centered around issues that directly affect African Americans,” Bell said. “The farm is the engine to rebuild our community.”

The farm started with a few beehives. This year, the 36th beehive was installed, and there are four “caterpillar tunnels” that provide the means to grow year-round crops. Sankofa also produces fresh eggs, dehydrated chips, and of course, honey.

Cardinal Gibbons graduate Kamal Bell ‘09 is well known locally as an educator and farmer whose tireless work delivers welcome support to local communities in and around Durham.

Bell is unique in that his particular campaign for social change begins with honeybees, and flows steadily from Sankofa Farms to minority neighborhoods in an effort to provide nutritious options for those affected by food desertscommunities that experience a lack of access to healthy foods.

Prior to starting his farm in 2016, Bell taught biotechnology in Durham. He and a group of students wanted to take an unused patch of school grounds and convert it to a garden, but they were initially denied permission. This experience, coupled with what he knew about local food insecurity, led him to buy some land and found Sankofa Farms.

When we spoke to Bell in late October, fennel was about to go into the ground, along with lettuce mixes and a lot of spinach. Dismissing carrots as less hearty and radishes as too labor-intensive (they’re hard to clean), Bell is clearly learning by trial and error what grows well with the current setup, even through the winter.

“We’re going to be producing a whole lot of food here; I’m just slowly gearing my mind toward the production piece of the farm,” he said.

Thanks to the Sankofa Farms Agricultural Academy, Bell doesn’t farm alone. The Academy is one of Bell’s major achievements. This program targets African Americans between the ages of 11 to 17, and its goal is to introduce STEM concepts and careers using agriculture as a pathway.

The academic program doesn’t follow a traditional format. Instead, students who are interested come out to the farm three times a week, and the group figures out how to work the farm together, alongside Bell.

BECKY KIRKLAND, NC STATE UNIVERSITY

Because of its flexible structure, Bell can hone in on the students’ needs and respond to them with education and mentorship. Students benefit from the camaraderie of working together and “seeing a black man that looks like them do something constructive that doesn’t involve entertainment,” Bell said.

The students also appreciate the presence and practicality required to work the land.

“Farming is a very modest thing. You’re not going to see many farmers driving around in a Mercedes…If we did want to get these things, we could,” said Bell, but the goal of the program is to do what one can with what one has, which also resonates with the participants.

Those who come out with an open mind and embrace the experience really enjoy it and seem to relax; they have time to think things through and feel comfortable in their skin.

Creating that safe space on the farm is of paramount importance to Bell, who believes that every black student who is a minority in their daily environment struggles in some way with their identity and sense of belonging.

“The only thing that really benefits black people is us having spaces that cater to our own needs,” Bell said, noting that the formative years during high school are especially fraught with challenges for people of color.

“Other kids know who they are, because they are presented with images that look like them and

cater to them, and there’s a whole system that caters to them, but rightfully so - that’s what you do when you have resources; you build something that caters to you.” Bell said.

His goal, then, is not just about bringing healthy options to food deserts; it’s also about cultivating opportunities that are shaped by experiences and perspectives students can relate to directly.

Once students are in the program, they tend to stay in communication with Bell - even the ones who quit.

“You can’t really age out of Sankofa; once you’re in it, you’ll always be in it and always have access to me and the resources that come through the farm. That’s [the student’s] choice.”

Unsurprisingly, Bell has received numerous awards and recognition for his innovative work in agriculture with at-risk youth. And as both his program and farm grow, Bell plans to expand his outreach to future students, as well.

“I’m here to support the black students at Gibbons in any capacity,” Bell said. “I’m here to offer a diverse perspective to the black student population.”

Interested students are encouraged to contact Bell at sankofafarmsllc@gmail.com.

Learn more about Sankofa Farms and its mission at sankofafarms.com/about

BECKY KIRKLAND, NC STATE UNIVERSITY BECKY KIRKLAND, NC STATE

HOLMES AT THE HELM

ATHLETIC LEADER AIMS TO IMPROVE STUDENT OUTCOMES BEYOND THE FIELD

In celebration of the strong, capable women leading Gibbon’s charge toward an ever-brighter future, Gibbons Magazine invites readers to get to know Director of Athletics Tonya Holmes. Holmes, the first female to lead the school’s athletic department, has a way of responding to students that embodies sports as ministry.

Participation in Gibbons athletics is about cultivating the connection between mind and body to best leverage the talents and gifts students have been blessed to receive. For Tonya Holmes, it’s also about the personal connections that carry over to the rest of a student’s life for years after the final season ends.

When Holmes received her college degree, her career path was uncertain. Thinking she wanted to pursue education, Holmes aimed her efforts toward working with kids and began coaching volleyball.

“I like community-building; I like getting to know people…and once I started coaching, I got why

coaches coach,” she said. “It’s not for wins. I get to connect with a group of athletes, I get to know them and what they’re experiencing in the world.”

Dean Monroe, assistant head of school for mission, and the Gibbons athletic director for more than two decades, shares Holmes’ ability to foster excellence. It was Monroe who urged Holmes to teach at Gibbons. “I have had the opportunity to work closely with Tonya for the past 10 years, observing her in a variety of leadership roles, and I am confident she is the right person to take our program to the next level,” Monroe said.

Whether it’s her easy going manner or quick smile, students respond to Holmes, who possesses that unteachable talent for gauging a player’s skills in relation to their personality, disposition, and physicality that elevates a coach from proficient to amazing.

She notes that through athletics, “you can challenge students in ways that you can’t in the classroom.” It’s

WOMEN’S ATHLETICS AT GIBBONS

Cardinal Gibbons joins high school and collegiate athletic programs across the country in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Title IX by acknowledging the many current and former student-athletes who helped build a rich tradition and legacy of success in women’s sports at our school.

1937

The Latin Lassies - The Cathedral Latin women’s basketball team earned this nickname and took the courts at a time when few athletic options were open to women.

1963

After a 10-year hiatus, women’s basketball returns the year the school moves to the Western Boulevard campus and opens under the name Cardinal Gibbons High School.

1954

All sports activities at Cathedral Latin were canceled after the school became racially integrated, and other teams refused to play against our school.

68 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS WON BY WOMEN’S TEAMS, OVER HALF OF TOTAL SCHOOL TITLES

about focusing on the player and who they are, what they’re going through, and supporting them along the way.

Holmes once had a volleyball player who was a thoughtful, introspective student who loved science and stayed humble. She was also a perfectionist who could be hard on herself. Beyond her volleyball skills, Holmes knew she was someone special; that she was “a connector.”

During her freshman year of college, she reached out to Holmes to share she had tore her ACL, and needed surgery.

Holmes helped her find the resilience she needed to have surgery, to sit the bench her entire freshman year, and to come back fighting - and regaining - her place on the court.

This is one of many instances where Holmes clearly makes a lasting impression on her students.

“She has the unique ability to connect with our student-athletes in a deep way, while also holding them to a high standard,” Monroe said. “She supports them in their pursuit for excellence in everything they do,”

These days, Holmes stays especially busy. She oversees a coaching staff of around 100 and dozens more staff who report directly to her, and there are many layers to the programming.

She’s proud of the way she has promoted better communication in the department by organizing a monthly facilities meeting, where coaches meet to review the practice schedule and ensure equity in access to resources, which arose from a need to ensure the girls’ teams had time to practice at the stadium.

“I love connecting with coaches, and I put all the coaches in a room together and now, they’re also connecting with each other.”

1937

Cheerleading team formed

1976

A growing student body and staff leads to expanding sports opportunities for all students, including volleyball, softball, tennis, and track for females.

1978

1977

Julie Shea ‘77 shatters the National Track Record, running a blistering mile in 4 minutes, 43 second. She held this record for 35 years until 2012.

In 1978, Mary Shea ‘79 sets a National High School record in two-mile and 5,000 meter races. She also sets an American record, running 32:52.5 for 10,000 meters.

1999-2000

The move to Edwards Mill Road created additional athletic opportunities with expanded facilities. Intramural Sports Clubs took off, giving birth to women’s lacrosse, field hockey, and golf - rounding out the robust offerings for female athletes.

2021

Claire Curzan ‘22 wins an Olympic silver medal the summer during the summer games in Tokyo. Curzan, who currently swims at Stanford University, becomes the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s Athlete of the Year and USA Today’s Girls Athlete of the Year in 2022.

2022

The women’s soccer team claims the state championship in May after starting the season as the No. 23 seed. It was their third in school history and the first at the 4A level.

12 WOMEN ‘S ATHELTICS TEAMS AT GIBBONS

Being an athletic administrator is powerful. It’s not just scheduling the games; it’s making sure you can compete at the highest level in a safe way, and in a way that lets players grow their talents and gifts.

“Tonya was an obvious choice for our next Athletic Director,” said Jeff Bell, Head of School. “She is an incredible leader with a deep knowledge of our school culture who fits our mission. She has already taken a stellar athletic department and made it better.”

Although it’s been challenging to not work directly with the students as often, Holmes is intentional about showing up at practices and games.

“If a kid’s out of line, I’m calling them out. If they’re doing something good, I’m high-fiving them,” she said.

Her presence on the sidelines not only allows her precious face time with students, it serves a higher purpose of staying in touch with students’ needs.

1979

1986

The women’s tennis team had its first undefeated season. Karen Rothschild ‘86 and Theresa Shea ‘86 were the No. 1 doubles team in the state. Rothschild was also the top singles player in North Carolina.

1982-83:

1986-1987 & 1988-1989

Women’s basketball win back-toback NCISAA State Championships.

1998-1999

Women’s cross country places first in the state for the first time.

2022

The women’s lacrosse team wins their fifth state championship since 2016. Gracie Mullahy ‘23, who will play at Harvard next year, earns MVP and Conference Player of the Year honors.

2022

The State Championship varsity cheerleading team takes home the 2022 North Carolina High School Athletic Association Carolina Cup, awarded to the top varsity team regardless of division, for the fourth time in school history.

2023

Basketball player

Rhian Lawrence ‘23 becomes the 13th women’s basketball player in school history to join the 1,000 point club and the first since Olivia Smith in 2016.

“I’m listening, and I’m seeing things, and I’m implementing things I think will be good [for students] as well.”

Overall, Holmes believes the primary work of coaching is not the teaching of sports; it’s helping kids during their formative years think about the impact their choices now will have years down the road, far beyond winning or losing state championships. Students must build resiliency and the life skills that propel them into life.

“I hate rejection and I hate failing, but it’s a part of life, and it only makes things better,” Holmes said.

A great teacher, whether in the classroom or on the field, is thinking about the ways we connect with each other, observing the student, and tailoring a flexible approach that allows for the right mix of compassion, support, and challenge.

“You get to see (students) at their highest highs and lowest lows, and in between is the formational opportunity,” Holmes said.

Cardinal Gibbons introduces women’s soccer.

Male & female swim team starts

16 WOMEN INDUCTED INTO THE CARDINAL GIBBONS ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME

EXPLORE THE STAIRWELLS

Emily Sartori ‘11 and Susan Leigh ‘87 teamed up to redesign the school’s main four stairwells to celebrate our storied history and deep Catholic roots. The spaces now reflect the three orders that have been a part of Cardinal Gibbons (Dominican Sisters, Sisters of Notre Dame, and Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn) as well as St. Monica’s, a Catholic school for Black children that served as a key feeder for our school from 1930-1967. Sartori, a fine arts educator, created her design based on archival materials and historic background provided by Leigh, the school’s director of alumni advancement.

DOMINICAN SISTERS 1909-1972

Father Thomas P. Griffin and the Dominican Sisters founded our school as Sacred Heart Academy in 1909. Based in the Pulaski-Cowper mansion on Hillsborough Street, it served about 50 students in grades 1-9. The upper level housed a convent and dormitory. During their 63 years of leadership they saw the small “one room” school grow into a three-story building before moving to the Western Boulevard campus.

ST. MONICA’S SCHOOL 1930 TO 1967

Honoring Saint Monica’s School, which operated from 1930 to 1967, blue is a nod to the student uniforms. The grade school, which served students through 8th grade, was built by the Catholic Diocese of Raleigh for Black students when all city schools were still segregated.

In 1954, Bishop Waters decreed all Catholic organizations in the state of North Carolina would no longer be segregated. Cathedral Latin, once the name of our school, welcomed incoming St. Monica’s 9th graders the following fall. Today, the St. Monica’s school building continues to serve southeast Raleigh as a community center.

St. Martin de Porres, whose likeness hangs above the stairway, was its patron saint and revered by all who attended the school.

SISTERS OF NOTRE DAME 1972 TO 2020

Honoring the Sisters of Notre Dame who administered the school from 1972 to 2020, blue and yellow reflect the colors of their order. After closing for the 1971-72 school year, the sisters re-opened the school. By the following year, enrollment had nearly doubled. During their tenure, the number of Advanced Placement courses grew, community outreach expanded, and the school thrived.

The Coesfeld cross on the blue wall above the stairway portrays the crucifix as the Tree of Life showing God taking on our great human suffering. The hands of Christ are turned in the position of a blessing.

FRANCISICAN BROTHERS 1994 TO 2006

Honoring the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn who led the school from 1994 to 2006, green reflects their association with the Irish Third Order Regular. The brothers were influential in the design and construction of our current campus.

An image of former principal Brother Michel Bettigole, OSF, hangs above the stairway. During his tenure, he helped grow enrollment and expand the fine arts program while creating an inclusive environment.

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

NASA PROGRAM PROVIDES AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Science educator Diane Ripollone traveled to Palmdale, California, last fall for a STEM immersion experience as part of the NASA Airborne Astronomy Ambassador program. During the trip, Ripollone joined the final Ambassador flight of the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), reaching 44,000 feet into the atmosphere.

“The trip was a chance of a lifetime; I was honored to be on board with other teachers across the country,” Ripollone said. “Words can’t express what I experienced flying aboard SOFIA. I’m amazed at what we saw and all the science we did while on board.”

SOFIA, a Boeing 747SP aircraft modified to carry a 2.7-mter reflecting telescope, allows researchers to observe from both of Earth’s hemispheres and enables studies of transient events that often take place over oceans where there are no telescopes.

-Diane Ripollone

To read Ripollone’s journal from the adventure, visit wearegibbons.org/sofiajourney

Academic Philosophy

A Cardinal Gibbons education inspires students to learn with purpose. Here, students:

• Discover and pursue their God-given vocations in a caring Catholic environment

• Grow as creative, discerning, and collaborative agents of their own learning

• Develop as conscientious members of a global, Catholic community

Portrait of a Learner

A Cardinal Gibbons Learner is ...

PURPOSEFUL

A Gibbons learner is motivated to achieve their academic goals. They build strong relationships with educators and peers, and engage in work relevant to the world they live in. St. Paul told the Christians of Rome, “and we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Motivated, Determined, Collaborative

PERSISTENT

A Gibbons learner is strong. They know that growth over time is the key to academic success. They show resilience in the face of adversity and remain focused on their goals. In the book of Matthew, Jesus tells us that nothing is impossible with God.

Resilient, Reflective, Perseverant

INQUISITIVE

A Gibbons learner is a problem solver. They are willing to take risks, try new approaches, and think critically about their studies. They value intellectual growth over extrinsic rewards. Proverbs states that “the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.”

Curious, Brave, Engaged

COMPASSIONATE

A Gibbons learner is a servant. They care for the world around them and all who live in it. They show gratitude when they succeed and appreciate the community that surrounds them. St. Paul tells the Ephesians to “be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ”.

Empathetic, Humble, Grateful

Academic Philosophy Portrait of a Learner &

Every school has a mission statement or academic philosophy, a brief, sometimes not so brief, 'summary' of its purpose. Nancy Barkan, assistant head of school for academics, said Cardinal Gibbons' new academic philosophy goes beyond just a simple statement.

"Through the strategic planning process, it was necessary to articulate better who we are and what we believe academically," she said.

Gibbons has taken the idea of positing lofty ideals for the 'purpose' of their school and doing something more revolutionary; they have created a Portrait of a Learner derived from their Academic Philosophy. How is that different?

Director of Studies, Treve Lumsden, said the Portrait of a Learner grew out of the discussion around how you could convey who and what a Gibbons student is to incoming students and families.

"We asked ourselves, 'If you worked in the area and encountered a Gibbons grad or a Gibbons student, and the student wasn't in uniform, would you know this kid went to Cardinal Gibbons?'" Lumsden said.

The process included:

• Discussions with seniors during their exit interviews.

• Feedback from more than 50 educators.

• A focus on the goals outlined in the school's strategic plan.

"Rather than having 'grad' as a focus, we wanted 'Learner’ in there because it encompasses not just our kids, but our teachers too," Head of School Jeff Bell said.

"If we say that Gibbons students learn with purpose, you could also flip it around to say that Cardinal Gibbons educators teach with purpose," Barkan said.

Both students and educators are learning how to creatively incorporate the traits outlined in the Portrait of a Learner into their daily lessons and interactions.

"How do you teach compassion in AP Statistics?" Lumsden said. "You could use math to look at various societal problems. There is always a way to find the link, especially if you are inquisitive."

Lumsden said giving everyone the same language to use makes the school stronger academically.

"We have a sense of purpose in what we are doing and a sense of purpose in what we give the kids," he said.

The academics team has tied the Portrait of a Learner to growth plans and professional development.

"Teachers are often purposeful and compassionate; now, they are focusing on being better at inquiry and creating a classroom where the teacher is asking questions," Barkan said. "The students are facilitating meaningful discussion or exploration through inquiry."

Bell believes the most exciting tenet is 'Inquisitive.'

"It represents what we are trying to do as we move the academic program forward from a traditional teacher-centered environment to a more student-centered, discussionbased format,” Bell said, "We want to craft an environment where there's a greater sense of purpose that transcends just a transcript and speaks to the higher points of our mission."

-Mike Watson

Oak to Altar

ICONIC TREE FINDS NEW PURPOSE IN THE CHAPEL

The altar in the Queen of All Saints Chapel at Cardinal Gibbons High School brings more than a new, contemporary feeling to the space; it is a remembrance of the school’s past.

Consecrated June 12, 2021, by Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama, the altar and accompanying pieces were designed by alumnus Peter Ruocchio ‘92 using part of an oak tree from the former campus on Western Boulevard.

Gibbons was there from the 1960s until 1999 when the school opened its current home on Edwards Mill Road.

Bishop Luis anointed, incensed, covered and lit the altar which, in Catholic tradition “are visible signs of the invisible work that the Lord accomplishes through the Church,” wrote Leonor Cavijo of the Diocese of Raleigh.

The oak tree was cut down to make way for the construction of Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral. A cross in the front office of the school was also made with wood from the oak.

Ruocchio, who does industrial craft design with his company Ruocchio Designs Inc., was excited to design the altar to reflect the contemporary architecture of the chapel.

The altar, 6 feet wide and 40 inches deep, is made of Tennessee sandstone to reflect the split stone columns that flank the glass brick windows, which let lots of light into the room.

The relics of St. Pope Pius X, St. John Neumann, and Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos lie beneath the stone. St. Pius was Pope from 1903-1914 and was known for his encouragement of frequent reception of Holy Communion, especially for children. St. John Neumann founded the first Catholic diocesan school system in the United States. Seelos served as an assistant to Neumann and preached in the MidAtlantic, Midwest, and New Orleans, where he worked with the sick.

The legs of the altar are maple; the oak is the central part of the altar, with walnut trim. “That was a red oak tree,” Ruocchio said. “I counted 79 rings, but the base was 4 feet wide so it must have grown quickly.” The same wood was used in the ambo for the chapel, too.

“The former altar was what I would call a ‘common altar’ that we purchased as a set from a company that serves Catholic communities in need of worship supplies,” said Gary Meyerl ‘82, assistant head of school for spiritual life.

Meyerl said the new altar, ambo and complimentary chapel furnishings accentuate the chapel. “The wood from the oak tree on the Western Boulevard campus is a daily reminder of our history (from whence we have come) and our future hope of spending eternal life with Jesus.”

Ruocchio had never made liturgical furniture before, but said it was an honor as a lifetime Catholic and former altar boy.

“The wood from the oak tree on the Western Boulevard campus is a daily reminder of our history … and our future hope of spending eternal life with Jesus.”

-Gary Meyerl ‘82, assistant head of school for spiritual life

Ruocchio and former chaplain Fr. Daniel Oschwald worked on the plans for about six months. Together, they went back and forth with different iterations.

“We talked about how we had to make it purposebuilt for the room, the chapel, and we couldn’t change the room,” Ruocchio said “ so the altar and other furnishings had to be new and meaningful.”

During the consecration Mass, Bishop Luis said, “I ask when you come to this high school, stop by, don’t ignore this beautiful classroom where the teacher is Jesus himself.

“It is the consecration of the table dedicated only to the celebration of the Eucharist.”

The Queen of All Saints Chapel is used primarily for school events. To allow the beauty of the new altar to be seen, a minimal altar cloth is used.

“While many may not know the history,” Meyerl says, “when they hear of the lengths that Peter went through to preserve and dry the wood of the oak tree in preparation for use in this altar they are just in awe. In my opinion, the intentional placement and use of the oak in the altar and ambo is a reminder to us of how interconnected we are as a Catholic school community – both in our rich history and in our living out our Catholic identity.”

-Deirdre Parker Smith

A NIGHT TO Remember

JUNIOR CLASSES HOST FROZEN FORMAL FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES

At Cardinal Gibbons, faith and ministry intersect through many outreach projects. At the heart of the Gibbons community is the belief that service helps foster the students’ spiritual development and instill a lifelong love of serving.

The school’s mission-driven commitment to service creates opportunities to intentionally serve the community in ways that bring life-giving joy to others.

In December, three junior Advisory classes and the Gibbons Friends club came together to create an unforgettable night of ministry.

Those who have recently visited State Farmer’s Market may have seen the quaint coffee shop 321 Coffee. Founded in 2017 by recent N.C. State University graduates Lindsay Wrege and Michael Evans, 321

Coffee is a coffee shop and roaster built on inclusion, employing more than 50 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). They roast the coffee, take orders, and make the lattes.

Now with four locations in the Raleigh area, they also partner with more than 100 companies to provide coffee. Wrege and Evans want to change the statistic that 80% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed by demonstrating the value of an inclusive business model.

Cardinal Gibbons began partnering with 321 Coffee in 2018, and the school now serves its coffee in the educator break room to support its mission (and the coffee tastes good!). But the Gibbons community wanted to do more.

Wanting to create a festive celebration and atmosphere, about 80 students and 10 educators planned, organized, and hosted a Frozen Formal for 321 Coffee staff members. Beautiful decorations filled the room on Friday, Dec. 16 - just one day after the school’s annual Snow Ball in the Fr. Thomas Price Gymnasium. The evening allowed more than 70 baristas, managers, and family members to enjoy a night of celebration after the grand opening of their fourth storefront in Durham.

“It was a beautiful night of authentic service, investing in the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Gary Meyerl ‘82, assistant head of school for spiritual life.

An hour before the event, Gibbons students provided hair and makeup services for the night. The evening began as junior Matthew Miles ‘24 announced the guests’ names, and they walked down a red carpet lined with Gibbons students cheering for them.

Each guest received a Gibbons buddy to help them navigate the night. Guests stopped to take pictures at the photo booth and were led into the gym, where they were surprised by magical falling snow. There they could dance and socialize with their friends.

Pizza, cookies, and Italian ice donated by Sweet Water were available in the cafeteria. The Spiritual Life Center provided a quieter environment where guests could make holiday arts and crafts. During the night, a special visitor — Santa — arrived to surprise the guests.

“It was one of the best events I’ve been a part of in my 14 years here,” said Crista Anders, the school’s junior and senior retreat coordinator. “Watching our students interact with our guests was so beautiful. I really saw the face of Christ in each and every guest and helper.”

English educator Deborah Taylor, who also serves as the school’s director of equity & justice, said it was a life-changing event for the students involved.

“It ignited a fire and passion among our students to do more for this underserved population,” she said.

Junior Miranda Rogosich ‘24 shared that being paired as a buddy with a guest, Nicole, was her favorite part of the night. After spending the whole evening genuinely enjoying each other’s company, Miranda visited Nicole at 321 Coffee the next day and is planning to spend more time together as friends.

“I’m confident that I’ve met a lifelong friend because of this,” Miranda said, “and I might even have found my career path.”

Wrege, the co-founder of 321 Coffee, said the night had a notable impact on her team.

“Everyone spent the week building anticipation, getting their nails done, getting fresh haircuts, and going shopping on trips; everyone was ecstatic! The night itself let everyone feel like celebrities walking down the red carpet, requesting songs, enjoying special treats, and more.

“Thank you to the Gibbons family for creating this special night for our team to be together, celebrating being a part of 321, and making special memories.”

And while our students spent their time and energy planning this unforgettable night for such an underserved yet deserving group, they were immensely impacted.

“I cannot express the joy and gratitude I have to be a part of something as wonderful as this club and the dance we put together,” said junior Kelley Ritchy ‘24.

For junior Catherine Lorelle ‘24, it was her favorite Gibbons event.

“It helped me realize that even if someone has Down Syndrome, or if they have a mental disability, they are still a child of a Great King and are made in His image and likeness, and of course, God doesn’t make mistakes, so their disabilities simply enhance their God-given beauty.”

-Lynn Beahm

Father Luke and God’s ‘Jackpot’

After only a few weeks in the Raleigh area, Father Luke Rawicki flashed back to his Catholic high school experience as he drove into the Cardinal Gibbons High School parking lot for his first day as the new chaplain. He couldn’t help but feel intimidated — 1,600 is a lot of students. Gibbons was such a large school; he knew even Catholic high schools were not always exceptionally friendly to priests. He loved youth work but had no doubt he would need to strive to be accepted by the students. At 8 a.m. on August 1, he stepped from his car and was surprised to see a tunnel of students welcoming new faculty and staffwhat was this place?

The year before Fr. Luke’s ordination in May 2022, he was sent on his first assignment to Monterrey, Mexico. Typically, he would have been given a three-year term, as his friends ordained with him in Rome had been. However, the Superior told him he would be assigned for a year in Mexico and then sent to work in the United States.

It was unclear what that new assignment would be until God intervened. In March 2022, Cardinal Gibbons Head of School Jeff Bell, asked Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama for a priest to come to the campus full-time as the chaplain. When the Bishop reached out to the Legionaries of Christ, Fr. Luke’s order, the Superior thought of Fr. Luke.

Now here he was, walking towards the tunnel. Before he could even get to the crowd, a student separated from the tunnel and ran towards him. “Fr. Luke,” the student loudly called, “I’ve been waiting to meet you! Welcome to Gibbons!”

“Any intimidation dissipated and vanished at that moment,” Fr. Luke said. “Right away, I felt at home, and that gave me, I guess, the courage to discover how I could connect and to be faithful to what God is asking me to do here.”

After six months at the school, Fr. Luke has undoubtedly connected with the students, educators, and parents of Cardinal Gibbons.

“We are thrilled not just with Fr. Luke’s role but how he is living out his vocation in real-time here at Cardinal Gibbons,” said Gary Meyerl ‘82, the school’s assistant head of school for spiritual life. “As a newly ordained

priest, you think he has so much to learn, but we have much to gain from him living out his vocation in front of us.

“It’s been a joy, not just for me but for our spiritual life team, the administration, our educators, and even our students, to accompany him on his journey.”

Fr. Luke emphasized he was not always called to the priesthood.

“I grew up Catholic as the third of six kids. I went through Catholic School and Catholic summer camps, but it didn’t become ‘my thing,’” he said. “I got far away from the faith during my last two years of high school and my first two years of college. I was not living it.”

A conversion experience during his sophomore year on Divine Mercy Sunday drew him back to the faith. He describes a compelling and tangible experience of God’s love and mercy that changed how he saw his faith and relationship with God.

It was then a speedy path to the seminary. Two months after that Divine Mercy Sunday, he was on retreat at a seminary, coinciding with about 30 young men discerning for the priesthood on the same retreat.

The priesthood kept popping up as he worked, played sports, ate, and prayed alongside them. Yet, he kept saying to himself, “I’m not that type of person; I’ve never wanted to be a priest. I’m too normal.” But the experience spurred the question in his mind, “why not me?” That led Luke to stay and participate in a twomonth discernment and maybe ‘give it a shot.’

Perhaps God was calling him to help people; maybe he should change to a psychology major to help others; he should possibly consider a Catholic college. But, questions arose during the discernment period, what was he being called to do in service to God?

As he learned more about the priesthood and the Legionaries of Christ, who ran the seminary and who he knew from his youth, over those two months, the more he heard the call. When he told his roommates at college and his family, they said, “I’m shocked; I had no idea you wanted to be a priest.” His retort always being, “I didn’t either!”

It is that discernment, that process of connecting with a community to hear God’s word in those relationships, which makes his ministry style so engaging. He throws himself into every aspect of life at Cardinal Gibbons.

“Fr. Luke has been a transformative presence on campus. He has been a humanizing force for the Catholic Church, someone who meets kids where they are in their lives,” said Head of School, Jeff Bell.

Gary Meyerl says about Fr. Luke’s first few months, “When we drew up a job description to give to the Bishop, it was strictly for a full-time chaplain. But he is teaching one class with seniors for vocations, and we have emphasized that we want him to be present for the students.” He makes himself present to hear confessions, especially during Advent, and will do the same during Lent. He celebrates Mass daily with parents, students, sometimes as clubs or teams, and faculty. He

has been invited to the houses of Gibbons’ families as a way for them to ensure he feels connected, and all this has been uplifting and inspiring to Mr. Meyerl.

During the first semester, right off the bat, he made himself present at football and basketball games; attended plays and prayed with the cast before performances; traveled with the soccer team to participate in a day of service with them; and watched their game to be present and available for the students.

Meyerl says, “it’s been inspiring to watch. He has conversations with kids that I could never have because they are just drawn to him. He has found a unique way to be himself and allows students to find joy in his vocation. We feel like we hit the jackpot!”

Fr. Luke feels the same way about the connection with Gibbons.

“I continue to invite the students, very openly and casually without pressure, to daily Mass. To naturally show the Christian life doesn’t have to be secondary to everything else. Hopefully, by his presence in their lives, they’ll allow God more space amid their busy day.”

For Fr. Luke, connecting to the students is integral to his ministry.

“Not everyone has an openness to faith. We can all put up walls to God and our faith because of negative experiences; everyone has difficult moments. Yet, God will transform lives, and he asks us to be an instrument for his love.

“Being happy and caring enough to ask the students about their lives and showing an interest in them allows whatever walls or barriers they have to come down through the Holy Spirit.”

Based on his Catholic high school experience, he expected the students at Gibbons to be ‘checked out’ regarding their faith. Instead, he is excited to have found a hunger for faith.

“It is like they have been waiting for the availability to engage with their faith. I feel like I have hit the jackpot,” he says, imitating what Meyerl noted separately.

What are Fr. Luke’s plans for the future? “I already love it here, and I’m hoping for my three-year commitment to be extended, and it often is, but that’ll be for God to determine.“

“My goal this first year has been to learn and listen and see the best way to bring faith to these students. It will be determined by which way the Holy Spirit is blowing. We will offer what students need in their lives; I plan to support where these young men and women feel their faith is leading them.”

The shared appreciation and joy at Fr. Luke’s presence has impacted the Gibbons community and will hopefully continue for years; many are praying for God’s ‘jackpot’ to continue.

-Mike Watson

Fr. Luke Rawicki, LC uttered those words on Sunday, May 8, 2022 during the homily of his first Mass as an ordained Roman Catholic priest. He used those three words to describe his call to actually be ordained a priest.

And yet, I can say with certainty that accompanying a seminarian, novitiate, brother or deacon on their journey to be ordained a priest is in itself “an incredible grace.” Over the course of time, I have come to realize and appreciate the graces that come with accompanying people on these milestone moments.

To accompany a couple on their journey to become “one” in marriage, for example, is “an incredible grace.” To be asked to serve as a Godparent or Confirmation sponsor is an opportunity that also provides for us “an incredible grace.” And to accompany a loved one on their journey home to God – while often difficult and full of challenges – it, too, can be an experience of “incredible grace.”

I was unexpectedly graced with the opportunity to accompany Fr. Luke on the final leg of his journey to being ordained a priest as a result of our learning that Bishop Luis Zarama and the Legionaries of Christ had agreed to have the soon-to-be ordained Fr. Luke serve our Gibbons community as Chaplain beginning in August 2022. What a better way to welcome our new Chaplain and support his vocation as a priest than to be there on day one - the day of his ordination.

Pax in Christi.

“An incredible grace.”

-Gary Meyerl ‘82, assistant head of school for spiritual life

PICTURED ABOVE: Fr. Luke Rawicki, LC and Gary Meyerl ‘82 in the Chapel of the Duomo di Orvieto on May 10, 2022 in Orvieto, Italy (Photo credit: JoAnna Rawicki)

Alumni Spotlights

When Dave Schweikert ’86 designed his Ride Across America in 2017, a friend pointed out something was missing from his 28-day journey. “Where is God in this?,” she said. That’s when Dave, a former cross country runner at Cardinal Gibbons, discovered the World Bicycle Relief fund and turned his 3,600-mile ride across America into a fundraiser, bringing bicycles to people living in rural regions of the world.

The gift of a bike can reduce the distance barrier to attending school, receiving healthcare, delivering goods to market, and the simple race against the sun to return home again. During his Ride Across America, Dave raised $16,000 for the nonprofit. In total, he has raised $35,000 for World Bicycle Relief.

What’s next for Dave? He’s training to break his second Guinness Book World Record. The first was in 2019 for 28 consecutive hours of spin cycle. On Memorial Day 2023, Dave will be GPS-tracking a 950-mile bike ride mapped out in the shape of a cross. Guinness has confirmed that this will be “the largest GPS drawing by bicycle” on record.

Dave plans to share his GPS map across his large social media following with the hope that this act will not only bring attention and support to World Bicycle Relief, but also to the One who brings meaning to everything we do.

“It’s not about me, it’s about using our talents to inspire people that they can do anything,” he said.

As a student, Aubrey Losack Painter ‘15 was inspired by Assistant to the Athletics Director, Alex Bass ’96, who was the first to give her a glimpse into the world of sports information. Bass encouraged Aubrey to attend a multi-school basketball invitational tournament where she got a first-hand look at sports media and realized it was more than print journalism, learning there were even career opportunities as a sports liaison. Fast-forward, Aubrey is now the communications and travel coordinator for the Round Rock

Express, the Triple-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. Aubrey’s days are filled with managing the press box, social media, and extensive travel for the 150 games per season.

She finds great joy in connecting the team to the community including a recent effort to raise money for youth baseball organizations.

“So much of my job reminds me of Gibbons,” Aubrey said. “Gibbons doesn’t just do things for the community, they are an integral part of it, which is something the Round Rock Express does well.”

Dave Schweikert ’86 Engineering Manager at SRAM Bike Parts Company INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Aubrey Losack Painter ‘15 Communications and Travel Coordinator for the Round Rock Express ROUND ROCK, TX

Stay connected with Gibbons and learn about alumni events at cghsnc.org/alumni

A quest to help find a cure for her mother’s Type 1 diabetes inspired Kristin David Cook ‘99 to become a physician. And Gibbons science educators

Stephanie Wilson and Don Sandberg gave her the support she needed to realize her dream.

“(They) made me believe not only could I be a doctor, but I would be great,” she said.

Kristin went on to attend medical school at George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences and complete a vascular surgery fellowship at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

The desire to cure diabetes continues to drive Kristin and

grew even stronger when her daughter was diagnosed with the disease three years ago. She’s an advocate for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and supports her daughter, who is an ambassador for the nonprofit.

Kristin and her sister, Caitlin David ’04, will race in the JDRF Disney Princess Run this spring.

Kristin lives in New Jersey with her husband, Michael, and two children, who enjoyed cheering for the Crusaders when they faced Bergen Catholic at a football game last year.

“I owe so much of who I am to Gibbons, and I loved being part of the alumni gathering in Bergen County,” she said.

What began as a required class at Cardinal Gibbons opened doors to an exciting career in the jazz music industry for Genevieve Stewart, a 1968 alumna.

After graduating from Hampton University in Virginia, she landed in New York City, where she was hired by Columbia Records for her superb typing skills, which she credits to her Gibbons typing class with Sr. Maria James. Her time in Columbia Records’ jazz department provided a unique opportunity for her to work with legends like Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Harry Connick Jr, and the young trumpet player Wynton Marsalis. When she was ready to start a family, Genevieve left the music business to become a teacher. Still, her love of music never waned—her time as part of the Cardinal Gibbons Glee Club and

the St. Monica’s School chorus turned her into a lifelong music enthusiast.

She later returned to the jazz industry as the Director of International Marketing for GRP Records before joining Wynton Marsalis’ company to support him in his role as Artistic Director and Managing Director for Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Genevieve served as his right hand, providing personal and business support, for a total of 19 years before retiring in 1996.

Genevieve lives in New York City with her husband and enjoys time with her adult daughters. Frequent visits to Durham include catching up with classmates from Gibbons.

Kristin David Cook ‘99

Vascular Surgeon at Hackensack Vascular Associates

HACKENSACK, NJ

Genevieve Stewart ’68

Wynton Marsalis Enterprises, Inc. NEW YORK, NY

Leadership Giving

Thank you to our community of generous donors during fiscal year 2021-2022 (July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022) for providing the additional resources needed to help Gibbons focus on advancing our mission of providing exceptional Catholic education.

LEADERSHIP GIVING

The Cardinal Gibbons Leadership Society recognizes donors contributing $1,000 or more during the 2021-2022 fiscal year. The commitment to continuing faith, service, and leadership programs along with providing excellent academics for more than 1,500 students is admirable and greatly appreciated. Thank you for joining us in advancing our mission.

THE 1909 SOCIETY

James Cardinal Gibbons Circle

$25,000 +

Anonymous

Dr. & Mrs. Christopher T. Coughlin

Mr. & Mrs. Howard Jung

Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Weber

THE 1909 SOCIETY Omnia Possum Circle

$10,000 - $24,999

Anonymous

Mr. Joseph P. Brannan

Mr. & Mrs. David Doeren

Mr. Steven Henry ‘78

Mr. & Mrs. John A. Hughes, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Hughes

Mr. Alex K. Kauer

Dr. & Mrs. Ramsey Kilani

Mr. James ‘87 & Mrs. Elizabeth Lally

Mr. Donald Lynch, III ‘13

Mr. William F. McKenzie

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Melcher

Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Phillips

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Quinn, Jr.

Mrs. Kim Riley

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas J. Shiel

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy J. Throndson

Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin R. Yeager

THE 1909 SOCIETY Franciscan Brothers Circle

$5,000 - $9,999

Anonymous

Mr. Bill Baker

Mr. & Mrs. Jim V. Baker

Mr. Cameron Blackman ‘08

Mr. Brian ‘90 & Mrs. Kimberly Boyle

Mr. & Mrs. John Corcoran

Mrs. Susan ‘76 & Mr. Robert Daly

Mr. Chris ‘90 & Mrs. Christy Derrenbacher

Mr. & Mrs. Mark A. Enzweiler

Mr. & Mrs. Carl Ferland

Mr. & Mrs. Michael P. Grace

Dr. & Mrs. Michael S. Grafinger

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Gredvig

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Hubbard

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Kelly

Mr. Michael J. Kilmartin, Sr. ‘74 & Mrs. Judy Kilmartin

Mr. & Mrs. John H. Kindt, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Steven Knier

Mr. & Mrs. David Lineberry

Mr. & Mrs. Adam McCarthy

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth L. Melton

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Michel

Mr. & Mrs. Michael L. Molinini

Ms. Marifrances Morrison

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas W. Reiland

Dr. & Mrs. Shepherd Rosenblum

Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Ryan

Mr. & Mrs. Rainey Sellars

Mr. & Mrs. Rocky Silvestri

Dr. & Mrs. Brian T. Szura

Mr. & Mrs. Henry Torrey, II

Mr. James & Dr. Amy Walsh

Dr. & Mrs. Matthew S. Wirick

THE 1909 SOCIETY Sisters of Notre Dame Circle

$2,500 - $4,999

Anonymous

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Astilla

Mrs. Kathy Boyle

Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Bryson

Mr. & Mrs. Mark J. Cashin

Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Chappell

Mr. & Mrs. John S. Charlesworth

Mr. Ken Clark

Mr. & Mrs. Keith Coltrain

Mr. & Mrs. Paul Couto

Mr. Elmer Cummings

Mr. & Mrs. David M. Damare

Mr. & Mrs. Michael DeBender

Mr. Matthew ‘09 & Mrs. Kelly Enzweiler

Mr. & Mrs. Sean J. Garcia

Dr. & Mrs. Donald D. Glower, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Hoffman, Jr.

Dr. & Mrs. Michael D. Holesh

Mr. Robert ‘70 & Mrs. Caralyn ‘78 House

Mr. Bill Karras

Dr. & Mrs. Justin Kauk

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Kenny

Dr. & Dr. Paul Kerner

Mr. & Mrs. Young Kim

Mr. & Mrs. Sammy Kinlaw

Mr. & Mrs. Brian A. Lemon

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph P. Lexa

Mr. & Dr. Todd Lopez

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Macken

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen M. Malloy

Mr. Roy Mashburn

Mr. & Mrs. Jay Mazzocchi

Dr. & Mrs. Joseph McGinn, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Monsees, II

Mr. James ‘94 & Mrs. Naky Parker

Mr. & Mrs. William Pinna

Mr. & Mrs. Chad Richards

Mr. & Mrs. John Stump, IV

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Taylor

Ms. Jennifer ‘00 & Mr. Blake Thomas

Mr. & Mrs. John A. Toebes

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery Williams

Mr. & Mrs. Donald J. Witt

THE 1909 SOCIETY

1909 Circle

$1,909 - $2,499

Anonymous

Mr. & Mrs. Victor E. Agusta, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Barron

Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Barry

Mr. & Mrs. Scott Beskid

Mr. & Mrs. Donald N. Blankenship, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Jason Brock

Dr. Michele R. Casey

Mr. John & Dr. Bridget Degele

Mr. & Mrs. Eric Denney

Mr. & Mrs. Jamie M. Eagan

Mr. Mark ‘07 & Mrs. Mary ‘07 Etheridge

Dr. & Dr. Christopher P. Griffin

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Mac Hammer

Mr. & Mrs. Luis A. Hernandez

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Iovino

Mr. & Mrs. John King, Jr.

Mr. Daniel ‘04 & Mrs. Abby Leonard

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Lickfold

Mr. & Mrs. Theodore Lotchin

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Masterson

Mr. & Mrs. Henry Mattocks

Mr. & Mrs. Robert McKeown

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Morrison

Mr. & Mrs. Francis Moyer

Mr. & Mrs. Jake Newman

Dr. & Mrs. Peter Nolan

Mr. & Mrs. Christopher A. Peoples

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Powell, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Rurka

Mr. & Mrs. Shannon M. Russell

Mr. & Ms. Daniel Schaefer

Mr. & Mrs. Paul H. Sevene

Mr. & Mrs. Garrick Sevilla

Mr. Alan ‘09 & Mrs. Megan ‘09 Sheridan

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew Stewart

Mr. & Mrs. Samuel T. Ward

Ms. Anna White Hosea

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Wilgus

Mrs. Barbara Williams

Mr. & Mrs. Bradley Zadell

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Zechini

ENDOWMENTS

Gifts to endowments provide a permanent source of income to the school. The funds are invested in perpetuity with a designated percentage of the earned income available for use on an annual basis. A strong endowment allows Cardinal Gibbons to meet the needs of increasing costs and keep tuition affordable for all families seeking an exceptional Catholic education rooted in faith, service, and leadership.

Audree F. and Margaret H. Long Endowed Scholarship

The endowment was established by Audree F. Long in memory of Margaret Hedrick Long and provides tuition assistance to students whose families demonstrate significant financial need.

Mr. & Mrs. Rick L. Eddins

Mr. Albert R. Long

Cardinal Gibbons Endowment Fund

The Cardinal Gibbons High School Endowment provides unrestricted support to the school.

Mr. & Mrs. Lloyd E. L. Fisk

Dr. & Mrs. Justin Kauk

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Lux

Dr. & Mrs. Peter Nolan

Ms. Cassidy Stow

Mr. & Mrs. Jody D. Wynia

Sr. Teresita and the SND Endowed Scholarship

This endowment was established by Mike Kilmartin ‘74 and provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

Mrs. Martha Adcock

Ms. Leslie H. Bryant ‘82

Ms. Megan L. Casey ‘83

Mrs. Rosemary ‘82 & Mr. Joseph Czejkowski

The Helen Steigerwald and Margaret Keyes Memorial Fund

The endowment was established by the Steigerwald family and supports tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

Amanda J. Rothschild Byer ‘82 Memorial Endowment

Brug

and Howie Jung Education Endowment

Fund

The endowment was established by Brug and Howie Jung and provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

Mr. & Mrs. Howard Jung

Coughlin Endowment

The endowment was established by Sandra and Christopher Coughlin to provide financial support for programs that support academic learning and different kinds of learners.

Mr. & Mrs. Mark Beale

Dr. & Mrs. Christopher T. Coughlin

Franciscan Brothers Endowment

The endowment was established upon Br. Michel Bettigole’s retirement from Cardinal Gibbons in 2006 as a way to honor his work and that of the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn who served our school from 1994 through 2006. The Franciscan Brothers Endowment supports tuition assistance for students and families most in need.

Mr. & Mrs. John Corcoran

Ms. Paige Derouin ‘09

Mrs. Pat Gallagher

Ms. Lauren Gentile ‘04

Mr. & Mrs. James E. Jay, II

Mr. & Mrs. Eamonn Kelly

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Melcher

Mrs. Peggy Paez

Mrs. Jane ‘79 & Mr. Prayson Pate

Mrs. Kathy Stephens

Mr. & Mrs. Timothy J. Throndson

Jack Ratz, Jr. Endowed Scholarship

This endowment provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year. It honors the memory of Jack Ratz, Jr ‘91.

Mrs. Tracey ‘88 & Mr. Lance Anthony

Mr. & Mrs. Henry Brathwaite

John A. Edmond Endowment

The endowment was established by John A. Edmond and provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

Mr. & Mrs. Steven P. Loeschorn

Military and First Responders Endowment Fund

The endowment provides tuition assistance to students at Cardinal Gibbons who are the children of military or first responders and honors and recognizes the sacrifices our military and first responder families make in service to their country.

Mr. & Mrs. Preston Oppegard

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Taylor

Dr. & Mrs. Thomas Weber Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic, Inc

Paul McEnroe Memorial Scholarship

This endowment was established to honor the memory of Paul McEnroe ‘86. It provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

Mr. Bill Solari

Mr. Chris ‘86 & Mrs. Hiroko Solari

Mr. David W. Rawers Honda - American Honda Motor Company

Mr. John Drescher, Jr. ‘78 & Mrs. Deanna Drescher

Mr. Timothy Dunn ‘82

Mrs. Lisa ‘82 & Mr. Steve Fadero

Mr. Art Kilmartin

Mr. Michael J. Kilmartin, Sr. ‘74 & Mrs. Judy Kilmartin

Mrs. Susan Leigh ‘87 & Mr. Edward Dougherty

Mr. Edward ‘81 & Mrs. Eileen ‘81 Michaels

Mr. Frank ‘57 & Mrs. Portia Prevo

Sr. Mary Helen V. Shea, D.C. ‘79

Mrs. Michelle ‘82 & Mr. Jaimie Smith

Mrs. Marirose ‘80 & Mr. Steven ‘79 Steigerwald

Mr. & Mrs. Darryl von Lehmden

Ms. Anna White Hosea

Susan Scott Daly ‘76 Excellence in Teaching Endowment

This endowment was established by Susan Scott Daly ‘76 to create an annual award for educators that considers their contributions to the furtherance of the school’s mission, dedication to student learning, demonstrated commitment to the enrichment of student and educator community, and the introduction of innovative education programs.

Ms. Lesley & Mr. Deran Coe

Mrs. Susan ‘76 & Mr. Robert Daly

This endowment provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year. It honors the memory of Amanda Rothschild Byer ‘82.

The Jim and Colleen Baker Endowment

This endowment was established by Jim and Colleen Baker and provides tuition assistance to students demonstrating financial need each school year.

The Ellen Wilson Endowment for Community Service

The endowment was established by Carol and David Ballesteros to provide support for community service activities at Cardinal Gibbons.

Briggs Family Endowment Fund in Memory of Margaret P. Briggs and Fred T. Pearce, Jr.

This endowment was established by Chris and Kelly Briggs and honors the memory of Margaret Briggs and Fred Pearce, Jr. The endowment provides tuition assistance to a single minority family/student demonstrating financial need each school year.

THE DONNA ZIMMERMAN MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT

“You can’t sum up someone’s life in words.” My younger brother, Tyler, said it best. How could I capture all that our mom, Donna, was in this world? Cancer took her prematurely in December 2021. Sure, it’d be easy to focus on her death and our ensuing grief. But I’d rather talk about how she lived.

Mom’s love language? Quality time. She cherished and prioritised one-on-one time with each of us boys. We talked about everything - big and small. “What do you want your legacy to be, mom?”

I (erroneously) thought she grappled with the concept. After all, she didn’t necessarily aspire to having gardens, plaques, or scholarships bearing her name. Instead, she yearned that her life and witness would bring others closer to God, especially during her cancer journey. She didn’t spend time talking about what she had accomplished in life; she preferred to focus on our faith and what was to come. Now that’s a legacy. Future-focused and faith-focused. And that’s what made knowing mom so special.

Because of this, there were certain unwritten “rules” growing up in the Zimmerman household. For example, you could not leave for the day without a blessing from mom over your head (Numbers 6:24). You always had a handwritten note in the lunchbox with a prayer or words of inspiration. (My youngest brother, Nelson, admirably saved all 600+ of his from his Gibbons years and keeps them to this day.) No meat on Fridays during Lent (often those lunchbox notes had to “remind” us - ha!) And, most importantly, you were to grow up with a Catholic education. After we visited our first open house

nearly 20 years ago, there was no question in mom’s mind. “You and your brothers are going to Gibbons, Michael.” And the rest was history.

Our Gibbons experience was intertwined with all that mom loved and embodied. Faith. Joy. Learning. Challenges. Leadership. The list goes on. She found her energy and life in people, whether it be through her volunteer work at school or on the sidelines cheering loudly at our countless soccer games. She lived a life exemplified by an endless generosity of time, talents, and treasure marked by the love she showed to others and instilled in their hearts.

Thus, the inspiration for the Donna Zimmerman Memorial Endowment. My father and I endowed this fund to carry on mom’s legacy - but in a way that we hope will be meaningful and consequential. Future-focused and faith-focused. The aim is to help deserving students with tuition assistance so that they (and their parents) can enjoy the benefits of Gibbons in ways that mom valued most - and then go out and make the world a better place. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my father. The driver behind this fund and the rock for our family, we would be nowhere without him.

Tyler is right. I can’t begin to encapsulate all that mom was in words alone. But I hope this is one small step in the right direction: for her legacy and the future of Gibbons.

-Michael W. Zimmerman Jr, ’09

The Brug and Howie Jung Education Endowment

“When we think of Cardinal Gibbons, we see how it helps young men and women who have been formed in their faith to go out and be responsible citizens,” says Howie Jung. “They now have the tools to go out and make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.”

Howie and Brug Jung know a lot about having the right tools and making a difference in the lives of others. For years, they owned and operated two Ace Hardware stores in Raleigh. Their community involvement included attending and volunteering with their parish church, St. Raphael the Archangel, and Board service – Brug at Cardinal Gibbons and Howie at WakeMed Foundation. After selling their businesses, the Jungs began to consider their values and the legacy they wanted to leave to their community. Through Brug’s experience with Cardinal Gibbons, they knew they wanted to do something for the school and the students, especially those students with financial need. Confident in the values of the school, they recently established the Brug and Howie Jung Education Endowment Fund to provide tuition assistance to students at Cardinal Gibbons.

Howie and Brug partnered with The Foundation of the Diocese of Raleigh for assistance with their financial planning and giving. They had heard about planned giving but assumed that it was only for the ultra-wealthy and that it would be very expensive and difficult to do. However, according to Howie, “The Foundation is there to help you find that direction and give you the options that are available. After that it’s easy. They have the documents there for you to fill out and sign.”

Brug added, “The people at The Foundation never were surprised at any of our questions! They came at it full of confidence, and that made us more confident in what we were doing.”

The Jungs were able to work with the Foundation to create their endowment with resources from an IRA while also planning for a future gift that costs them nothing today.

For Brug, the process of working with The Foundation and Cardinal Gibbons to create a new student scholarship was “a wonderful opportunity to be able to articulate what you want to do with the product of your life.”

The Brug and Howie Jung Education Endowment is one of 18 endowed funds held by The Foundation on behalf of Cardinal Gibbons High School. To learn more about how you can leave your legacy, please visit cghsnc.org/endowments or FoundationDOR.org.

-Alicia Hastings, The Foundation

-Anna Hosea, co-author

Marie Strickler Barney ‘44

Jeffrey Castleberry ‘17

Michael Hutzler ‘75

Veronica Weiland ‘83

Mark Williams ‘93

Alice Ruth Wilson ‘51

1401 Edwards Mill Road

Raleigh, NC 27607

CLASS REUNIONS INCLUDING 70’S DECADE REUNION

Various classes have reunions planned for April 28 and 29. The popular 70s Decade Gathering will be Saturday under the Western Blvd Pavilion starting at 7 p.m.

4.29.23 | 4 - 7 P.M.

The Golden Crusader Dinner celebrates all alumni from Nazareth Orphanage, Cathedral Latin, and Cardinal Gibbons who graduated 50+ years ago. This year we induct the Class of 1973.

4.29.23 | 11 A.M. - 2 P.M.

A day of family-friendly fun. Take a campus tour, spend time with alumni friends, and sample some of Raleigh’s most popular food trucks.

4.30.23 | 10 A.M.

Alumni join in prayer at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral, located on the former home of our Western Boulvard campus.

FOOD TRUCK RODEO & LAWN GAMES

GOLDEN CRUSADERS DINNER

ALUMNI MASS