GIBBONS CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL MAGAZINE
2019-2020
Multicultural Day – A Gibbons First It was a creative plan: Fill the school’s main lobby early one Friday evening in February with the music, dancing, singing, and tables of food from different cultures and traditions. And it was, by all accounts, the start of a new Gibbons tradition.
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VISION FORWARD Shaping our future using lessons learned from the past and present. PAGE 20
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FROM THE PRINCIPAL
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MISSION MOMENTS
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CRUSADER SNAPSHOTS
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ADMINISTRATION
SENIOR SENDOFF
LOGGING ON
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TAKE FIVE: THE IMPACT OF RETREATS
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CO-CURRICULAR SPOTLIGHTS
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TWO VIEWS
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GIBBONS IMPACT
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IN LOVING MEMORY
Editor Rachelle Garbarine Director of Communications
Cover story and alumni spotlights written by Rachelle Garbarine
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Editing Rachelle Garbarine, Susan Leigh ’87, and Terri Ingraham
WHERE ATHLETICS HAPPEN
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A MOST MEMORABLE YEAR
Gabi Burn ’08, Kevin Ferguson, JP Gregory, Terri Ingraham, Gary Meyerl ’82, Dean Monroe, Tim Yelenic Editorial Board
Alumni Editor Susan Leigh ’87 Associate Director of Alumni Advancement
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
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Lytia Reese Superintendent of Catholic Formation & Education, Diocese of Raleigh Nancy A. Barkan, Principal
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CONVERSATIONS WITH ...
Most Reverend Luis Rafael Zarama Bishop of the Diocese of Raleigh
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Photography Azul Photography, Dogwood Media, Gibbons Media, Natasha Johnson GIBBONS is published twice a year in the fall/winter and the spring/summer by Cardinal Gibbons High School for its parents, students, alumni, and friends.
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GIBBONS ALUMNI
26 Career Connections 28 Alumni Spotlights
CONTACT US: If information has been omitted or incorrectly noted, please accept our apology. To notify us of the correction, to submit information for future issues of GIBBONS, or to request back issues of the magazine, please contact Rachelle Garbarine at (919)834-1625 x 206 or rgarbarine@cghsnc.org
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From the Principal
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he sun is shining outside as I glance from my computer screen in my “home office.” Never in my 26 years in education have I experienced anything like what has become our shared new normal. My heart aches for a return to our campus - to see our students and educators in hallways and classrooms. Something you may not know is whenever I give a tour of our campus, visitors always comment, “The students are all smiling. How is that?” While I know such a comment may be an exaggeration of sorts, it is the normal that is the daily life at Gibbons. I miss Gibbons. I miss the students. I miss our educators. I miss our volunteers. I miss YOU. Know, however, that we are all working to ensure that we maintain the teaching and learning excellence our students and families expect AND planning for the next school year. In early February, Gibbons shared that we have developed innovative programming for our students. The first significant shift was a reimagining of our freshman courses specifically Health and PE, Technology Skills, and World Geography. We created a new course, Gibbons Freshman Seminar (GFS): The GFS supports the onboarding of students to the Cardinal Gibbons experience and provides a foundation for young adulthood. This course incorporates health and wellness through social and emotional awareness so that all students at Gibbons receive the tools, information, and support needed for healthy living here and beyond.
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In addition to GFS, our Health and PE Department realigned its content and standards to ensure the development of lifelong health and wellness goals and standards. We created both a men’s and women’s fitness program for all four grades. Along with our improved academic offerings for 2020 and beyond, our Retreat team has developed an ambitious retreat program offering more opportunities for grade-level, co-curricular, and athletic team retreats throughout the year. We also created a COVID-19 Task Force to help ensure the Gibbons experience continues in the next academic year, while keeping the well-being and safety of our community our overriding priority. Given the recent national focus on racial justice we are developing a plan to provide tangible resources and actions to re-commit to racial equity and cultural diversity on our campus, including additional changes to our curriculum. We are excited about the next phase of our Gibbons Journey by welcoming our new Head of School, Mr. Jeff Bell. We have spent time this year preparing for the transition and positioning our school to be even better in the months and years to come. Gratefully, Nancy A. Barkan, Principal
Mission Moments
FAITH
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n a bright March morning, seniors “checked in” virtually for their retreat, amid the coronavirus concerns that engulfed the nation at that time. The next day they attended the retreat online, drawing them closer to one another and to God and, in turn, reflecting the inventiveness and resilience of our faith community. Such moments also bring even greater significance to the meaning of the Gibbons spirit and to the retreat program’s vision as “a transformative opportunity,” said Retreat Director Tim Yelenic. There were other examples. Theology educators continued Gibbons’ tradition of praying the Stations of the Cross on Wednesdays during Lent, albeit via a YouTube video. Every morning Assistant Principal of Student Engagement Mike Rogosich ’90 brought the school community together to pray the morning prayer by posting it on Twitter.
2500+
people experience retreats.
All agree, however, that there is no replacement for the prayerful experiences students receive at school or during a retreat at Short Journey. The retreat program offered more than 40 retreats this year, including 10 retreats for sixth-eighth-grade students in diocesan middle schools. The second half of this school year also ushered in some honored traditions like a prayer service, reflection and distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday. There were also some firsts, including the start of a Friday afternoon prayer session in the chapel. There, students came together after school to reflect, through prayer and song, our school’s message of love, truth, and hope. As for next year, the retreat program, which is being revised, looks forward to a full year at Short Journey. It also plans to offer more opportunities for grade-level, cocurricular, athletic team retreats that, in the words of its newly-minted slogan, will leave participants transformed in heart, refreshed in spirit. To learn more about Spiritual Life at Gibbons please visit cghsnc.org/retreats
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Mission Moments Faith. Service. Leadership.
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hese three words remind us who we are and who it is that we are called to be - especially in times like these, Director of Outreach Gary Meyerl ’82 said as the coronavirus situation unfolded before us in March. And who we are, he added, is a “creative community that remained in service to others during this time of social distancing.”
SERVICE
To that end, Gibbons continued to help as many of its 37 partner agencies as possible in innovative ways. Our school has served the Shepherd’s Table Soup Kitchen every Monday for years, and during the pandemic was no exception. A team of educators, alumni, and parents continued to serve, preparing and distributing grab-n-go lunches on Mondays to individuals and families in need, said Meyerl. Others are sending email letters or poems to residents at the Brookdale Retirement Community. Still more are recording themselves singing a song, reading a book, or playing an instrument that could be shared with the children at Beginning & Beyond Daycare Center, explained Meyerl. Earlier in the year, the outreach program also expanded in several new directions. For instance, it piloted a service opportunity that enables students who serve Catholic Parish Outreach (CPO) on Tuesdays by packing and sorting food to return one Friday each quarter to encounter the families who CPO serves. “This new service opportunity not only allows our students to put a face to the need that we seek to meet through our outreach to CPO but also enables them to be the light of Christ for those we serve,” he noted. To learn more about Service at Gibbons please visit cghsnc.org/outreach
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2000+
people engage in outreach offerings
Mission Moments
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Leadership is the answer to how Gibbons seamlessly transitioned to distance learning,” Gabi Burn ’08, science educator and director of leadership formation, said. “Administrators and educators stepped up with their gifts and talents… and students and parents supported them and each other.” At the same time, leadership development still took place, albeit online and, in many instances, via Zoom video conferencing, she added. Examples range from collecting online nominations for this year’s Gibbons Leadership Conference to holding regular monthly Chickfil-A-Leader Academy (CFALA) meetings and exploring ways to execute their yearly impact project remotely. Earlier this year, the program also added new initiatives, enhancing its offerings to students and extending new ones to parents. In December, for instance, CFALA leaders teamed with several educators to hold a fundraiser during Christmas for a Catholic nonprofit. “It was the perfect opportunity for the collaboration of faith, service, and leadership,” Burn noted, adding that “we raised over $2,000
for the organization and hope to make this an annual tradition.” Two months later, it also held a Parent Leadership Conference, a program first. “And, it won’t be the last,” noted Burn. Fifteen parents from the Cardinal Gibbons Family Association gathered to learn more about their leadership skills and cast a vision for the future of parent engagement at our school. The two-day February retreat was held at St. Francis Springs Retreat Center in Stoneville. “We have conferences for students and educators,” explained Burn. “It makes sense to create an opportunity for our parents who contribute so much to the vibrancy of our school community.” To learn more about Leadership at Gibbons please visit cghsnc.org/aboutus/leadership
1500+
people participate in leadership programs
LEADERSHIP Spring/Summer 2020 7
Crusader Snapshots Gibbons offers students as well as parents numerous opportunities to engage in our vibrant community and live out our mission of forming men and women of faith, service, and leadership in church and community. To read more stories about life at Gibbons, please visit cghsnc.org/gibbonsnews MOTIVATION MONDAY
OUR NEWEST INDUCTEES Congrats to the members of the 2020 Athletics Hall of Fame class, which comprised a trio of Gibbons firsts – the first men’s lacrosse player, Adam Hurley ‘99; the first women’s soccer player, Emily Turgeon Cambra ‘00; and the first tennis coach, Darryl Von Lehmden, to be inducted. They were honored during the January 31 induction ceremony and reception in the school’s Learning Commons.
Getting motivated come Monday morning is a challenge. However, iCube (Innovative Crusaders Understanding Business and Entrepreneurship) offers Motivation Monday to start the week on the right foot. It takes place Mondays, 7:30 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., in the iCube classroom. At heart, the initiative centers on inspiring talks that help brighten the spirits, dust off the weekend cobwebs, and, yes, motivate listeners.
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Momentum - Winter 2020
COVER STORY This winter, Cardinal Gibbons was the cover story in Momentum Magazine, published by the National Catholic Educational Association. The piece celebrates our storied 110-year-history and the vision that feeds the collaboration and love of our community. It also highlights our mission of faith, service, and leadership and how it transforms lives.
FOR THE RECORD BOOK It was a weekend for the Gibbons Athletics record book. After capturing the East Regional championship title, the varsity wrestling team went on to compete in the school’s first-ever NCHSAA 4A Dual Team State finals. Meanwhile, Claire Curzan ‘22, a swimming and diving team standout, broke two all-time national records, a Gibbons milestone not seen in 40+ years.
https://read.nxtbook.com/ncea/momentum/winter_2020/momentum_winter_2020.html
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DISTANCE LEARNING In transitioning to distance learning, our educators have utilized creative and effective ways to teach their classes online. In turn, they continue to move learning forward and, whenever possible, maintain the daily life of our school with such digital tools like Zoom, Google Classroom, Gimkit, Flipgrid, and Remind.
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A WINDOW ON THE WORLD Broadening minds, extending boundaries, and learning skills to examine our world are some of the benefits 30 student travelers and four educators received on their 10-day, school-sponsored trip this winter to Western Europe. In that time, the Gibbons travelers immersed themselves in the sights, sounds, and history of Western Europe, by visiting such cities as London and Paris, as well as the Normandy region.
EDUCATORS HONORED At a January 30 All-School Mass, the Gibbons community honored five educators who dedicated 15 to 25 years of service to our school. It also paid tribute to Sister Mary Jean Korejwo, SND, and Sister Janet Schemmel, SND, who have ministered at our school for 26 and 28 years, respectively. The five honorees were: Ed McKinnie, Mike Rogosich ‘90, Mark DeLaRosa, Rick Martin, and Lauren Owen.
STEM DAY 2020 This Gibbons first was a creative way to inspire our students to explore fields connected with science, technology, engineering, and math. The event, which took place this winter, also provided a preview of the array of classes – from intro to engineering to AP computer science - Gibbons offers to prepare students for those fields.
READY, SET, PODCAST Gibbons embraced podcasting at the start of this year because it offers an engaging way for our educators to explore topics on project-based learning. There are two podcast series – one about academics, the other about leadership – underway, and additional ones are planned. The initiative, Crusader Casting, is a collaborative effort between Gibbons Communications and Gibbons Library/Media Center.
ARTISTRY ON DISPLAY Over two dozen Gibbons visual arts and media students earned praise for their creative gifts and talents, capturing 71 awards in the Eastern/ Central North Carolina Regional Scholastic Art Awards Competition. Their works were among the 2,400 entries submitted on the regional level. The competition recognizes the vision, ingenuity, and talent of students across the nation. Gibbons student-artists consistently have been recognized throughout the program’s history.
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LOGGING
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How the Cardinal Gibbons school community transitioned to distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to THRIVE. Although our physical classrooms may be temporarily closed, student learning has continued through a distance learning model that offers myriad opportunities for students and educators to engage, grow, and learn together while apart. The school transitioned to that model 72 hours after we closed the campus in mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many reasons for the school’s effective transition. Key among them is the detailed plan put together by our administrators and educators that enabled the school to navigate this challenging situation. Additionally, our time-tested 1:1 program armed our students and educators with laptops, allowing them to work efficiently online. While we know the school will look different in the fall from the past, we are committed to providing the best Gibbons experience possible. Working with administrators, including incoming Head of School Mr. Jeff Bell, and the recently formed COVID-19 Task Force, we will make important decision on how and when to open school. Know that we are working on multiple scenarios. Nothing can replace in-person interactions and classroom learning. However, we will continue to find creative ways to ensure students maintain the sense of community – with their educators and one another – that makes Gibbons unique. Meanwhile, we remain committed to living our school’s mission of faith, service, and leadership, albeit remotely. One of the many examples is the Gibbons Mask Force project. Crusaders responded to this labor of love by sewing nearly 700 masks and writing approximately 400 notes of gratitude to first responders in New York City. Read more about this project with a purpose at bit.ly/3eG5J92
PARENT & STUDENT
Affirmations Messages from parents and students have been pouring in acknowledging and praising Gibbons for its excellence in the transition to distance learning. Here’s what they have to say.
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“I appreciate the hard work the educators at Gibbons went through so quickly to prepare for a thoughtful & thorough plan for the online program. Please thank the teachers for preparing the lessons even though they may have young children at home and for still being a part of our children’s lives. Thank you for your leadership during this unprecedented time.”
“Gibbons’ transition to distance learning was well done. The educators did a great job of asking and accepting feedback. I also appreciate the patience the educators have had in this situation. And they have demonstrated that they are there for us and often remind us to reach out to them if needed.”
- S TA C E Y S T E P H E N S G I B B O N S PA R E N T
- ALEXABELLE SCHICK ’22 GIBBONS STUDENT
In the classroom or remotely, our educators create opportunities for students to learn and lead in the spirit of Cardinal Gibbons: to form men and women of faith, service, and leadership in church and community.
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Over 200 courses that were taught during the spring semester were moved online, enabling over 1,500 students & 140+ educators to teach and learn together while apart.
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Our educators have a total of 44 educational tech tools to choose from to engage students online. Popular tools include Google Classroom, Zoom, Screencastify, Flipgrid, and Actively Learn.
1:1
Our established sevenyear-old 1:1 program armed each of our students and educators with a device, allowing Gibbons to transition easily to distance learning.
4,956
From March 19 – May 8, there have been 4,956 Zoom sessions, totaling 1,445,938 minutes. Some 59,844 participants ranging from students and educators to administrators and parents, attended the sessions. One session had over 200 attendees.
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Our technology team continuously keeps us connected with assistance from the help desk staff at Carolina IT; TenPlus, a local repair center, and our very own STARS (Student Technology Assistance Resource & Support) program. STARS has responded to over 500 emails or calls for tech support from March 19-May 8.
“Thank you so much for everything, especially your leadership during this challenging time. Stay safe and healthy. This, too, shall pass. We will all learn the resilience of our community and how fortunate we are!”
“Gibbons educators truly poured their hearts into the distance learning, which is certainly not a surprise. Not only did educators work hard to ensure we were able to learn as usual and prepare us for AP exams or classes next year, they also took the time to ask us how we were doing.”
“I wanted to take the time to write and say how grateful we are for being a part of the Cardinal Gibbons family, especially now during this time of upheaval and uncertainty. Your leadership and love and support of our children and their continued learning have been very much appreciated. Knowing that Connor and Brian can continue to learn even though they are not physically present at school is a blessing.”
- C O U RT N E Y K E LLE R G I B B O N S PA R E N T
- SOPHIA JENNY ’20 GIBBONS STUDENT
- DIANE AND WILLIAM PENCOLA G I B B O N S PA R E N T S
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seniorsendoff FOR THE CLASS OF 2020
Graduating from high school is an important milestone. Class of 2020, yours is one shared across the world – a collective experience we ALL can remember. Know too, that graduation marks the beginning of your continued Gibbons experience not the end. So, to mark that moment – your moment, the senior sendoff was one that reflected the indelible mark your Class has left on Gibbons and is memorable and unique – just like you. Class of 2020, you will always have a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to welcome you home as our newest alumni. April 29
Cap and Gown Distribution Instead of receiving their caps and gowns at an assembly, seniors drove through the carpool lane where Gibbons administrators and educators, practicing social distancing measures, placed students’ graduation items in the trunk of the student’s car.
LOST SENIOR
moments THROUGH THE DECADES
Class of 1919 Due to a nationwide flu pandemic in 1918, the school (then known as Cathedral Latin) closed mid-year (1918-1919), and the Class of 1919 was unable to complete their senior year.
May 1
Cupcake Day Traditionally, seniors celebrated their college decisions with a cupcake. This year, however, it was a personalized printed cupcake with green frosting and gold sprinkles that was mailed to each student’s home. Along with the cupcakes, each senior received a personal note from his/her college counselor.
Classes of 1954 and 1955 In 1954, when the school (then Cathedral Latin) became the first integrated school in North Carolina, other athletic teams refused to play our school. All sports activities for two years were canceled, leaving the Classes of 1954 and 1955 without their sports seasons.
May 13
Gibbons Prime Now Gibbons Educators delivered senior items to the home of each member of the Class of 2020. The items brought the graduates love and joy and included personalized yearbooks, National Honor Society cords, Gibbons crosses, medals, and other surprises.
May 10
Blessing of the Gibbons Crosses On Sunday, May 10, Gibbons Chaplain Fr. Daniel Oschwald blessed 379 Gibbons crosses, one for each of the graduating seniors in the Class of 2020, at 10:30 a.m. Mass live-streamed from Queen of All Saints Chapel. When blessing the crosses, Fr.Daniel said,“The crosses will be given to the seniors this week as a reminder of their education and growth in their faith while here at Cardinal Gibbons.”
May 18-22
Senior Sendoff Five days filled with virtual celebrations honoring members of the Class of 2020. The celebrations ranged from two senior video tributes to the announcement of two meaningful commemorations – art and nature - honoring the Class of 2020’s legacy.
May 22-24
Senior Weekend That’s when the Class of 2020 virtually joined in fellowship for Baccalaureate Mass, which was live-streamed from Queen of All Saints Chapel on Friday, May 22. And two days later, Sunday, May 24, seniors and their loved ones came to campus to participate in the Class of 2020 Walk – an opportunity to have a photo taken and create a lasting memory.
August 1
In-person, on-campus graduation ceremony A commemorative virtual graduation video available after August 1. 12 GIBBONS MAGAZINE
Classes of 1961, 1962 and 1963 At the end of the 1959-60 school year, budget cuts resulted in the elimination of the football team, which did not return to Gibbons until 25 years later in 1992.
Class of 1969 The Class of 1969 did not experience its Junior/Senior Prom and Homecoming. Both were canceled due to financial difficulties.
Class of 1972 The school closed in May 1971 for one year when the Dominican Sisters, who served the school, were unable to stay in North Carolina, taking most of the classroom educators away from Gibbons. In turn, the Class of 1972 never got to experience their senior year. While many enrolled in their assigned public high school, they claim, to this day, they are Gibbons Alumni. The school named them honorary alumni years ago, and in 2022 Gibbons will host the 50th reunion for this Class.
AWA R D S A N D H O N O R S F O R T H E
CLASS OF 2020 Senior Academic Awards Valedictorian Kendall McClellan Georgetown University
Salutatorian Archer Zureich Brown University
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge Award presented to the student(s) known for showing outstanding love and devotion to the administration,faculty, and students of Cardinal Gibbons. Natalie Thornburg Daniel Mazzerina
Bishop Vincent S. Waters Memorial Award
given to a student who has shown outstanding witness to the Roman Catholic faith by living out each day in the Christian call to holiness.
Nicholas Chrysogelos
Bishop F. Joseph Gossman Award an academic award given to the senior(s) who has/have the best overall average in a particular subject area, over the four years of high school, and who has/have shown extraordinary interest in the subject. Dance Ashlynn DeGeorge
Engineering Oishi Ghosh
French Amanda Chacon
Science Kyle Duerr
Music Gabriella Ercolino
Drama Donny Gaynor Sean Sabye
English Klarissa Kronschnabel
Spanish Christopher Adams
Social Studies Kendall McClellan
Mathematics Tanner Price
Latin Emma Colavecchio
Visual Arts Lauren Miller Anna Palmtag
Theology Lauren Miller
Crusader Athletic Awardees Female Athlete of the Year Claire Curzan ’22 (rising junior)
Male Athlete of the Year Carson Williams
Spirit of Sport Award Adam Castiller
Spirit of Sport Award Lukas Sobocinski
Senior Athletic Awardees LAX Women Carolyn Barbieri Bailey Mutch Adeline Overholser Madelyn Pietrek Alison Rogers Gabriella Vertreese Spencer Whalen Lauren Wildgoose Kathryn Wozencroft Softball Lochlyn Casey Karen Galush
LAX Men James Carmouche Ashton Harp Davis McCain Andrew Perun
Tennis Men Kevin Gallagher Chase McDonald Bradley Sears Patrick Van De Carr
Golf Men Hayden Cody Andrew Harvey Columb Knight Preston Sinclair Mitchell Skiko Sean Sullivan Philip Tracy
Baseball Camden Jones Andrew Kissell Devin Preskenis Andrew Sotell Cole Thompson Richard Van Tassel
Soccer Women Grace-Claire Athus Savannah Barlow Kylee Cromwell Sydney Graham Matisse Hastings Taylor Madormo Sylvia Murray Audrey Smith
Track Timothy Hunn Christian Martinez Marco Tan Harris Upchurch Mikayla Atwood Lillian Gruebel Lucy Anna Sheaffer Lindsay Woodard
Ultimate Christian Martinez Lukas Sobocinski
Junior Marshals 2020 Amelia Aragona Hannah Brown Alyssa Cadiz
Sean Curzan Andrew Degele Michelle Escobar
Alexandra Foppiano Ashley Goulding Mollie Jordan
Jacob Labaza Julia Priu Samantha Rectenwald
Abby Rinehard Amy Rinehard Emily Robers
Collegiate Scholarships The Class of 2020 earned over $19 million in scholarships. Spring/Summer 2020 13
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THE IMPACT OF RETREATS The retreat experience at Gibbons is as spiritual as it is educational. It is also formational and enduring. For retreatants attending one of the more than 40 retreats Gibbons offers, the focus is to pray, grow, and live the story of their faith in their hearts. It is a story that strengthens both the soul and the spirit. Today, these discoveries are occurring during retreats at the Cardinal Gibbons Short Journey Retreat Center in Smithfield our school’s new home away from home.
Crista Anders & Tim Yelenic RETREAT DIRECTORS
“Directing our retreats over the years has added a vibrance to our faith lives that didn’t exist before. It is such an honor to be welcomed into so many people’s lives and to walk with them through their transformative retreat experience. Also, getting to do that at our second home, Short Journey, makes it even more fulfilling, engaging, and inspiring.”
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Take Five Dr. Chris Pennisi PARENT OF MOLLY ‘20 AND MACIE ‘23
“When my wife and I decided to send our daughters to Gibbons, we wanted them to have an exceptional educational experience, grow in their faith, and we knew the spiritual retreats were unique to Gibbons. I’ve seen my daughters grow by going on retreats, and for my oldest, leading them. Since Short Journey is where all the retreats now occur, I helped with its revitalization to make it an exceptional place for all who attend a Gibbons retreat.” Paige Derouin ’09 ALUMNA AND EDUCATOR
“As a student, there were few opportunities for off-campus retreats, and I never set aside time to attend. As an educator, I have been an adult retreat leader, allowing me to observe students making realizations about themselves, connecting with peers, and taking steps toward a deeper and stronger faith. All who choose to be present gain new perspectives on faith and friendship and that translates into a stronger school community upon return to campus. ”
Meredith McElroy ’19 ALUMNA, RETREAT PARTICIPANT AND LEADER
Alexander Biega’20 STUDENT
“Retreats are an essential part of life because they provide participants with an intentional time to get away from the routine of each day and focus on themselves. As a sophomore at Siena College, I am the Retreats Representative for our Campus Ministry Board. When I am serving on, creating, and leading retreats, I am doing what God has called me to do. My experiences with retreats at Gibbons helped solidify this for me. ”
“The Gibbons Retreat Program has led to some of the most impactful experiences I have had in high school and life. The people I’ve met and the friendships I’ve developed have been amazing. After going on and leading retreats, all I have felt was pure love and compassion. Short Journey has become like a second home to me, and I hope I can return someday. ”
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Conversations with
ATHLETICS EDUCATORS AND COACHES Todd Schuler
Director of Athletics
With our athletic facilities, we are always looking for ways to grow participation opportunities and to provide the safest, highestperforming playing surfaces. With the opening of our new multipurpose synthetic turf upper field and tennis courts, we almost doubled the size of the playing surface and transformed a small, worn-out grass field into a state-of-the-art competition field for field hockey, lacrosse, and soccer. This allows us to practice more teams at the same time and in all different types of weather. With our ongoing stadium renovations, we’ve installed a turf system that will be cooler, faster, and safer for all our students and coaches. This summer, we will complete an overhaul of our stadium track. In addition to a high-quality rubberized surface, we are adding a Fully Automated Timing (FAT) system, and we’ve re-configured our field events to allow all our student-athletes to compete inside the stadium. There will also be a full LED video board that will allow our digital media students and Gibbons Gameday to provide students with an immersive digital gameday experience. Jim Liebler
Head Varsity Baseball Coach & Social Studies Department Chair
When the new spacious and covered hitting facility was finally open for use last spring, we barely realized the full potential.
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It consists of two 110’ tunnels and one 90’ tunnel side by side. The area is covered and wired for lighting. Turf was added in the fall of 2020 to put the finishing touches on what is one of the finest high school hitting facilities in the state. During the fall, we were able to have up to 40 student-athletes hitting simultaneously in the cages. We can train day or night, rain or shine. There is enough room for softball and baseball to be simultaneously training, now a common sight year-round. Chris Morland
Director of Strength and Conditioning
The Cardinal Gibbons Strength and Conditioning Program, in coordination with physical education, live out our school’s mission by challenging students physically through science-based programming that addresses their general fitness and sport-specific needs. Last year we worked with 68 percent of all students or a total of 892 students. This year, we trained two additional teams, which pushed our total participation even higher! In the future, we plan to expand our reach. We also strive to increase the use of training technology like Teambuildr, which logs training workouts and wellness indicators. We also will grow a new application called PUSH, which we will use to measure power outputs. These two growth areas will enable us to help students develop performance and needed life skills to advance their health and durability for both life and athletics.
where ATHLETICS happen
Turf fields. Gymnasiums. Batting cages. A stateof-the-art strength and conditioning center‌ The 900+ student-athletes at Gibbons playing on 49 different teams in 27 sports have the tools and resources they need to succeed, and visitors have the amenities that provide a memorable gameday experience.
Batting cages for softball and baseball teams.
Stadium track overhaul will include a rubberized surface and a Fully Automated Timing system.
Auxiliary Gym will gain additional bleacher seating and a mat hoist system.
Multipurpose synthetic turf upper field for field hockey, lacrosse, and soccer.
LED Video board offers an immersive digital gameday experience.
Strength and Conditioning Facility is where academic instruction, team training, and personal fitness programs happen.
Stadium outfitted with a turf system that’s cooler, faster and safer.
Students share their spiritual gifts and realize their high school milestones in Fr. Thomas F. Price Gym.
Six tennis courts for singles and doubles matches. Spring/Summer 2020 17
Special Recognition
The Sisters of Notre Dame (SND) of Chardon, Ohio, have been an integral part of our school’s history for 48 years. In that time, 29 SND sisters have worked at Cardinal Gibbons as administrators and educators. This year, we celebrate Sister Mary Jean Korejwo, SND, who celebrated 60 years of consecrated life, 26 of them ministering at our school, and Sister Janet Schemmel, SND, who has served in Catholic education for 50 years, 28 of them at Gibbons. At Gibbons, Sister Mary Jean* taught science, math, and computer science at Gibbons and worked in the advancement department and later in the business office. Meanwhile, Sister Janet taught chemistry and served as Academic Dean and science department chair. Both retired from Gibbons at the end of this school year. However, their legacy of caring and dedication to our school’s mission of faith, service, and leadership, and to their charism, to proclaim God’s goodness and provident care, will continue. Read more educator spotlights at cghsnc.org/educatorspotlights
*Sister Mary Jean Korejwo, SND, died on April 24 at age 82 and has been given eternal joy. Read more on page 33.
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Co-Curricular Spotlights FRANCISCAN YOUTH INTERNATIONAL (FYI) turned 15 this year. In that time, it has grown to 355 members, but its goal has never changed: to assist the needy and put into action the church’s social justice teachings by such activities as helping the hungry through food drives and serving at Catholic Parish Outreach.
FISHING CLUB is one of the latest club offerings. Students travel to fishing spots in Raleigh/Durham and along the NC coast. They also learn fishing techniques, conservation, and about the environment. Club members practice the catch and release method. So grab your pole, tackle box, and join this fun outdoor activity.
COOKING CLUB is another new club. Here, students come together to share their passion for culinary pursuits. Do you like lasagna, donuts, or eggrolls? If you would like to know how to make these and other dishes or share recipes, then don an apron and join the club.
These clubs are some of over 50 co-curriculars Gibbons offers. To view all the offerings, visit cghsnc.org/campuslife/co-curricular
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VISION
forward Shaping our future using lessons learned from the past and present.
At 110 years old, Cardinal Gibbons is bursting with history. But there are plenty of new and exciting innovations taking place here, too. To be sure, Gibbons has a distinct culture. It is a place of learning and leading, of scholarship and creativity, of service and community, and of formation and faith. Here, people share a “we’re in this together” attitude and work as one not only to maintain that culture but also to make it better for all community members as well as for the next generation. Evidence of that “attitude” has been on full display throughout Gibbons’ response to the coronavirus pandemic and our community’s seamless transition to distance learning. The work of the school continues throughout the transition, less visible, perhaps, but true to the unwavering spirit of Gibbons. These values are rooted in Catholic ideals and in love and have been since the school opened in 1909. In celebrating our 110th year, we look with equal measure to embrace our past and to shape our future, which now will include a definite nod towards distance learning. The shape of tomorrow, whether in-person or apart, is one of new leadership, new courses, and new faith opportunities, thanks to our Short Journey Retreat Center. There also is an array of critical and innovative initiatives underway or planned. Among them is the recently formed COVID-19 Task Force to help ensure the Gibbons experience continues next fall. The central focus of the task force is threefold: safety, community, and academic excellence. In addition, we are working on a plan to increase cultural diversity and racial equity on our campus that may include curriculum changes. Plans also call for a strategic planning process and capital improvements.
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Head of School (HOS) Jeff Bell, together with three, longstanding Gibbons administrators – Nancy Barkan, Mike Curatolo, and Mike Rogosich ‘90 - will guide all of those advances and more. Bell will begin his new role on July 1, 2020. He comes to Gibbons from Beacon Academy in Evanston, IL, where he served as founding head of school since it opened in 2014.
CURRICULUM ADVANCES Key changes to some academic courses and departments as we move forward. A full list of 2020-21 course updates is online: cghsnc.org/gibbonseducation/courseofferings
“We look forward to Mr. Bell’s leadership, commitment to our culture, and his dedication to advancing innovation, fostering community alliances, and nurturing our Catholic faith and identity,” Tim Throndson, Board of Directors Chair, said in a statement. Just what those intentions specifically will mean and what his start as Gibbons’ first HOS will be like, especially given COVID-19, is what Bell is envisioning now, with input from current administrators and educators.
Gibbons Freshman Seminar will replace Technology Skills and World Geography as mandatory courses for all incoming ninthgrade students. As such, the seminar infuses the goals and standards of a social studies course, like critical thinking, into a yearlong class that also provides students with technology skills and social and emotional learning.
What is sure to be prominently displayed in Bell’s office next school year, however, is an excellence in teaching award. It was given to his grandfather, who Bell noted, had a profound impact on his faith and career choice.
Media classes have been reorganized as part of the Fine Arts department and still will count as a Fine Arts credit.
The award, added Bell, serves as a reminder of what his grandfather stood for – a deep commitment to students, to Catholic education, to kindness and to family. They also are ideals Bell said he intends to uphold as Gibbons’ HOS. (Read the Q & A with Jeff on page 23 to learn more about his plans.)
“We look forward to Mr. Bell’s leadership, commitment to our culture, and his dedication to advancing innovation, fostering community alliances, and nurturing our Catholic faith and identity.” -TIM THRONDSON
The leadership transition ushers in a new chapter in Gibbons’ storied history. Over the last year, however, the school already began its move in new directions, including, by default, a plunge into distance learning. And that many said will, in turn, inform myriad innovations in learning and teaching moving forward. A key directional shift already planned, however, are the updates to some academic courses and departments. They range from adding classes like Freshman Seminar and separate Men’s and Women’s Fitness to forming the Business, Technology, Engineering (BTE) department. The updates will become effective in the 2020-2021 academic year.
Band and percussion courses have been reorganized. A Latin IV class is a new option. The Health and Physical Education department will be revamped into the Physical Education department and offer classes in Men’s Fitness, Women’s Fitness, as well as Yoga and Mindfulness. The health curriculum will be incorporated into the Freshman Seminar. Public Speaking and Presentation is a new zero-period elective. Economics and Economics Honors will include a focus on financial literacy that is relevant to Gibbons seniors. Honors credit and the honors option have changed for many courses. The new Business, Technology, Engineering (BTE) department will combine the former Business and Computer Science departments.
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Six years in the making, the changes are intended to support further the development of Gibbons students in mind, body, and spirit. They also will equip them with the skills needed today to succeed in college and life. “Ours is a multi-faceted approach to some course updates - focused on Health and Physical Education, Technology Skills, and World Geography - starting at the ninth-grade level,” explained Barkan. “Doing so will help us more accurately meet the needs of our students, support them for all four years, reflect our school’s mission, and provide a foundation for a lifetime.” Part of that foundation is preparing students for distance learning, which the COVID-19 crisis has proven is a 21st-century educational reality. And the National Education Association predicts that with the increasing sophistication of the Internet and other digital communication technologies, the use of distance education undoubtedly will expand dramatically in the years ahead.
“Ours is a multi-faceted approach to some course updates - focused on Health and Physical Education, Technology Skills, and World Geography - starting at the ninth-grade level.” -NANCY BARKAN
With COVID-19, that future became the present in what seemed a nanosecond. Still, Gibbons went into high gear, transitioning seamlessly into distance
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learning 72 hours after state and diocesan leaders closed schools. The reasons are many and varied but come down to being prepared and seeing early on the possibilities in technologies. Examples are numerous. Among them are our school’s seven-year-old, time-tested 1-1 program, and the many educational tech tools our educators transferred from their physical classrooms to their virtual ones. Another is that our school’s mission of faith, service, and leadership not only continued but flourished. Challenges exist. But those challenges will also bring spiritual growth and joyful exchanges among educators, students, and their families. And through those challenges, we will demonstrate that a Catholic school like Gibbons is a unique community of people who live out the love of Jesus Christ. There are also increased opportunities planned for students to grow in their faith through service, liturgy and prayer, and retreats. Indeed, with the opening last fall of the school’s Short Journey Retreat Center in Smithfield comes the chance to reshape and enhance the retreat program going forward, said Director of Retreats Tim Yelenic. What that means is reflected in the program’s vision statement: As a transformative opportunity to build relationships, the Cardinal Gibbons Retreat Program allows individuals to grow and reflect on their willingness to deepen their faith.
T H R E E QU E S T I O N S
CONNECTING WITH JEFF BELL 1. WHAT WILL YOUR PRIORITIES BE FOR NEXT YEAR? Given the unprecedented school year we just experienced, we know that school next year will look and feel different than it has in the past. Even before my tenure at Gibbons officially begins on July 1, I have led the effort to create a COVID-19 Task Force to help our school navigate the weeks and months ahead to ensure that we create a safe environment for our students, families, and educators. It comprises an incredible group of people with a wide range of experience in medicine, online learning, marketing, higher education, human resources, and the law. The task force will work closely with the administration, the school’s Board of Directors, and the diocese, to craft a strategy, ensuring the Gibbons experience continues for everyone as we deal with the difficulties that COVID-19 presents. Its central focus is threefold: safety, community, and academic excellence. In addition, plans are underway to form a coalition and develop a comprehensive plan to address racial justice and equity on our campus. Creating true change is only possible through education, listening to those affected by oppression and racism, and ensuring that our policies and practices reflect a commitment to inclusion. I also want to get to know as many people in the Gibbons community as I possibly can, so I can understand the community more deeply and find the places where I can contribute to the powerful and pervasive culture that already exists at Gibbons. I will work with the leadership team and educators to identify those areas where Gibbons is thriving as well as areas where growth is necessary. That process has been unfolding since December, not only through my visits to campus but also through daily conversation and communication with a wide array of Gibbons educators. 2. AS THE SCHOOL’S FIRST HOS, DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE. First and foremost, I am an educator. Teaching, coaching, and mentoring adolescents are my vocation, and supporting colleagues is a source of great purpose and meaning. I am most excited to walk the halls, go on retreats, attend events, and be in community with our student body in my role next year--all of which takes on new meaning in this pandemic and “new normal” of isolation. As the head of school, I am responsible for all the operations of Gibbons. One key element of my role is to work closely with the Board of Directors, the diocesan superintendent, and the bishop. I will be focused on crafting and executing the strategic priorities of the school, which will not be a singular effort but a community one. I will be partnering with all the educators in the school to ensure that Gibbons is delivering a first-rate Catholic education to all of our students. I will also interact with parents in a variety of ways. Finally, I will have a deep involvement with advancement office members and their fundraising efforts. 3. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR INITIAL PLANS AS HOS, INCLUDING IDEAS TO NURTURE GIBBONS’ SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND CATHOLIC IDENTITY? The first step is to recognize the primacy of our Catholic identity, which makes us who we are and serves as our North Star. Any decisions that I make will be filtered through the Catholic lens. When I visited Short Journey for the first time, I came away inspired and genuinely moved. Given that we have only had one year with the retreat center (and COVID-19 has truncated that year), we are only beginning to understand the impact that Short Journey will have on the school. I look forward to learning more from Crista Anders and Tim Yelenic to see how we can leverage this considerable spiritual asset.
Spring/Summer 2020 23
Two Views On Chorus at Gibbons
MARK RAMSEY ’66
IT WAS CALLED GLEE CLUB, which “brought more students together than any other non-academic activity,” Ramsey noted. The school’s 150 students could choose between basketball and glee club, he said. Ramsey picked the latter as did one-third of the student body! “The club enabled me to use my talents to give back to the school,” said Ramsey, who became a professional actor. He said it also helped him improve his vocal talents, which helped him in his career. “I would audition for and obtain supporting roles in musicals, something I would not have had the confidence or the ability to do without those glee club years,” he explained. As club president his senior year Ramsey said he learned how to encourage people to improve. That lesson from Sister Veronica Maria helped him in his directorial endeavors, he added and noted: “she taught us how to come together in harmony … vocally and within ourselves.”
COLETTE ALLEN ’20
IT IS CALLED CHOIR, which Colette has been involved in all four years at Gibbons. “I love … hearing how all our voices harmonize together,” she explained. Colette, who has been singing since she was eight years old, said the choir “is like a family.” The group performs at All-School Masses, football games, and three concerts a year, which Colette noted is their way of sharing their talents with and giving back to the school community. Being a member of choir has taught her “that every voice counts and that collaboration is key,” she explained and added, “the music only works if we all participate and blend our voices.” There also have been life lessons learned that Colette said she will take with her to college. “Being in choir has taught me the value of hard work… and that if you truly want something and put in the time, the reward is so worth it,” she explained. 24 GIBBONS MAGAZINE
2 3 4 1
GIBBONS ALUMNI 5
Support from Across the USA
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Raleigh public schools were segregated in the mid1960s when I attended Gibbons, though Gibbons became integrated in the mid-1950s. Our graduating class of 32 had four black students and was a welcoming place to all at a time when Raleigh was not. This influenced Carol and me to be open to those different than us, our entire lives. We will be forever grateful for the school’s openness to all, and its impact on us, which we pass along to our children. Rob Gocke ’67 with Carol Janesick Gocke ’67, Boulder, CO
2 I give to Gibbons because I believe it continues
strengthening my faith, my call to service, my belief in the good of God’s plans, and humanity.
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5 I will be forever grateful to my parents who worked
hard so that my sisters and I could attend Cardinal Gibbons. I was given the strong academic foundation needed to attend a great college and establish the career I’ve enjoyed for more than 30 years. Gibbons also provided an atmosphere to build lifelong friendships. In the spirit of giving back and paying it forward, I will always support Gibbons.
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Michelle LaMarche Smith ’82 Atlanta
6 Gibbons represents a meaningful experience in my life
for which I am grateful to my parents, the faculty, and my friends, in contributing to my personal development.
Christopher Fleming, Jr. ’98, Raleigh
Kim Stasheff ’81, New York
3 Gibbons blessed me with an outstanding education and great mentors, providing me with a strong foundation upon which to build my personal, professional, and spiritual life. I’m happy that I can support Gibbons and help further its great mission!
Matthew Enzweiler ’09, Chicago
7 I had the unique experience of graduating from
Cathedral Latin while living at Nazareth Orphanage. The school was home for me, a place I was loved and cared for. I know that sense of “home” continues to be part of what makes Cardinal Gibbons a very special place. I’m happy to give back in support of the strong sense of family that defines Gibbons.
Thomas Jackson ’54, Menifee, CA
4 I am very committed to Gibbons’ efforts at outreach.
We must show others our willingness to serve them, just as Jesus served. I support Gibbons so current students can continue to fulfill this part of the school mission.
George McGovern ’78, Henrico, VA
8 I give back to Gibbons as a way to say thank you to my teachers for the lessons of faith, service, and leadership they instilled in my heart. John Cunningham ’14, Rio Grande Valley, TX
If you’re interested in contributing to The Cardinal Gibbons Fund, please considering visiting our secure online giving page cghsnc.org/givetoday With concern for the safety of our community and public health guidelines for COVID-19, Gibbons is monitoring future engagement opportunities, including Gibbons Alumni efforts. The Golden Crusaders Dinner is postponed until Fall 2020. This year Gibbons celebrated Alumni Weekend (June 12-15) with four days of virtual opportunities. The offerings ranged from a quarantine trivia quiz to engaging Zoom sessions. All touched on the Gibbons mission of faith, service, and leadership and allowed us to spend time together when we were unable to gather in person. cghsnc.org/alumni
facebook.com/alumnigibbons
twitter.com/alumni_cghsnc Spring/Summer 2020 25
CAREER CONNECTIONS Alumni in Our Community
Denise LaMarche Heaney ’89, PhD
SENIOR SCIENTIFIC AFFAIRS MANAGER, DIAGNOSTICS INFORMATION SOLUTIONS (DIS) AT ROCHE DIAGNOSTICS | ATLANTA, GA
Denise has spent over a decade at Roche, where she currently leads the efforts of clinical studies, scientific communications, and medical plans and activities for DIS. As a clinical scientist in the diagnostics industry, Denise has been on the leading edge of new advances in medicine, and in positions where she was able to advocate for better health care practices, especially for underserved populations.
Kara Morch Langan ’91
VP STRATEGY & INNOVATION SKIN HEALTH FRANCHISE N.A. AT JOHNSON & JOHNSON | GREATER NEW YORK CITY AREA
Kara has worked as a brand marketer for some of the most familiar names in health and beauty. After graduating from Appalachian State, Kara completed the MBA program at the Stern School of Business, NYU. In her two-plus decade career, Kara has held senior marketing positions at Elizabeth Arden, Revlon, and Johnson & Johnson and garnered experience with global branding and strategic positioning for mass and prestige products.
Alumni Visiting Our Campus “Returning to Gibbons to share my company’s newest product, a smart bike light called ioLIGHT, with students was a rewarding experience. They were among the first in the world to see the new product. Hearing their feedback and fielding tough questions helped me better understand younger consumers and made for a very special afternoon.”
JEREMY WALL ’10
Founder & CEO, Lumenus | Los Angeles, CA
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Daniel Leonard ’04
VP TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS GROUP CORPORATE AND INVESTING BANKING, REGIONS BANK | CHARLOTTE, NC
Dan earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Wake Forest University followed by seven years in the Army as an Infantry and Technology officer. After service in Germany, Afghanistan, and Africa, Dan completed his MBA at Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business and transitioned to investment banking in New York City. After a two-and-a-half-year stint with Deutsche Bank, Dan got an offer he couldn’t refuse – a position at Regions Bank in Charlotte. “Returning to North Carolina was always part of the plan. I’m happy to be closer to Gibbons and look forward to becoming more involved with the Charlotte-area alumni.”
Shirley Parker ’07
PROGRAMS OFFICER, SCHOOL OF INFORMATION & LIBRARY SCIENCE AT UNC-CHAPEL HILL | CHAPEL-HILL, NC
With a BA in Psychology, Master of Social Work, and M.Ed. in Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education, Shirley has held a variety of counseling positions and support roles. She began her career as a patient assistant at Carolina House, providing support for clients with eating disorders and mental illness. Additionally, she has worked at Workplace Options, where she provided telephonic crisis counseling for patients struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, and familial issues. Currently, Shirley works at UNC-Chapel Hill, providing support for graduate students and executive programs.
“I was thrilled to provide my professional refinishing services for the furniture at Cardinal Gibbons Short Journey Retreat Center. I remember retreating there as a student, and it holds a special place in my heart. I appreciated the opportunity to give back to Gibbons in this special way.”
DAN MCKENZIE ’97
OWNER, FINISH PROS | RALEIGH, NC
“Visiting campus to share my technology experience with educators and the STARs team has been an eye-opening experience. I’ve found that even with all the changes since I attended Gibbons: a much larger student body, more course selections, more sports and co-curricular options, that the values have not changed. Equality, compassion, empathy, and service to others were core values when I attended and are still there now.”
JOHN STEIGERWALD ’74
PRINCIPAL AT JLS ASSOCIATES AND PROFESSOR OF BUSINESS, UNC-CHAPEL HILL | RALEIGH, NC
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Alumni Spotlight
JEFF MOELLER ’86
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) in Alexandria, VA, is at the forefront of advancing research and innovative technologies to ensure water quality and improve water services to the public. And whether he was leading a team of researchers or serving as a project manager or as Director of Water Technologies, Jeff Moeller ’86 has played a critical role in that quest during his 23 years with this non-profit. At present, Moeller is working on different water innovations. They range from demonstrating a new technology that can produce renewable fuels, like biocrude oil, from wastewater to developing new processes to make energy positive wastewater treatment plants and testing new sensors to manage watersheds and water systems. He said his company is even conducting research on the COVID-19 virus. His role at WRF is one Moeller was destined to play. It started with his early interest in evaluating the impact water resources make on developing countries, which he witnessed firsthand working for a year on a water project in Honduras after college.
“Attending basketball games at the old Western Boulevard gym and going to the Char-Grill downtown after the games are favorite Gibbons memories. The cook would give us all his extra fries if we were still there when he closed the grill at the end of the night. “ Jeff Moeller ’86
He said he also credits Gibbons educators – Mrs. Gealy and Mr. Whitehurst- for inspiring his passion for math and science. “I’m grateful for all they taught us, as well as the faith and values that Gibbons instilled in us, which provided a strong foundation for the future.” That passion for math and science also helped him choose a career as an environmental engineer, said Moeller, who was class valedictorian. He attended UNC-Chapel Hill and studied applied science, before transferring to and graduating from NC State with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He also received a master’s in environmental engineering from M.I.T. So, what life lesson did he learn at Gibbons? “Always surround yourself with good people and you can’t go too far wrong,” said Moeller. As for advice to students contemplating a career in the non-profit sector, he added: “It’s a fulfilling career and a great opportunity to make an impact.”
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Alumni Spotlight
MARY ALICE STRANGE ETHERIDGE ’07
Research, new product development, global expansion, sustainable infrastructure. Mary Alice Strange Etheridge ‘07 knows her way around the finance world. As vice president, corporate strategy and development at Guggenheim Investments in New York, there’s good reason. Since graduating from Gibbons and then Dartmouth College, with a major in psychology and a minor in the classics, Etheridge entered that world and never looked back. She honed her skills at such Manhattan firms as Deutsche Bank and Raymond James before joining Guggenheim nearly two years ago. In her current role, a key focus is sustainable infrastructure investment initiatives, which foster growth that preserves the environment. Guggenheim, she explained, connects private capital with both domestic and global infrastructure projects, and defines measures of risk and return, allowing investors to make educated decisions. She described the work as fulfilling. Etheridge also organizes Guggenheim’s participation at the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. This year she represented her company in Davos and developed its business strategy used at Goal 17 Partners, a platform to engage the private sector in global development. How did Gibbons help in her career? “Gibbons helped me build foundational leadership skills,” she noted. “I was the president of the Global Crusaders and the Recycling Club, and during my tenure, we launched the first Gibbons Earth Day, which taught me about event planning, project management, and leadership, skills that serve me today.” She points to former principal Br. Michel Bettigole’s leadership and commitment to expanding Gibbons’ financial aid programs as her inspiration. She attended Gibbons, thanks to those programs. “I not only received the education I needed to get into a top college, which shaped the trajectory of my career, “she said. “But I met my husband ( Mark Etheridge ‘07) and some of my best friends, and built the spiritual foundation that has shaped me into the person I am today.”
“My life would be very, very different … without Br. Michel’s commitment to making a Gibbons education accessible to all. It continues to inspire me to this day to be grateful for everything I have, and most importantly, to give back to Gibbons and my community.” Mary Alice Strange Etheridge ’07
Spring/Summer 2020 29
ALUMNI CELEBRATIONS
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2 1. Lauren Schaale ’11 completed her Master of Science degree in Biology at UNC-Wilmington and now works as a scientist at the Bald Head Island Nature Conservancy, where her responsibilities include daily monitoring of the conditions on the island and their impact on wildlife. 2. Jennifer Pinna Thomas ’00 and her husband Blake welcomed Robert Pinna Thomas on February 6, 2020. 3. Dianne Scardino ’14 started a new position as a Procurement Specialist at the Electric Power Research Institute in Charlotte.
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4. Andrew Jordan ’10 is working at Amazon Web Services, the cloud computing arm of Amazon, as an Account Manager in their New York offices. 5. Alumni from ’60 – ’63 enjoy regular gatherings in the Raleigh-Durham area as they celebrate over 50 years as Golden Crusaders. 6. Jack Sabye ’17 is spending the current school year as a general course student at the London School of Economics studying Economics and Economic History as part of his degree in Business Economics at Providence College.
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8 7. Allyson Pérez ’13 is a Nutritional Health Graduate Fellow of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute in Washington, D.C., where she works as a legislative aide to Rep. Kim Schrier. In 2017 Allyson received a Fulbright scholarship to pursue her Master of Gastronomy in Pollenzo, Italy, after completing her undergraduate studies at Harvard University. 8. Sarah Bono ’09 married Dalton Hood in an outdoor ceremony at Morris Peaceland Farm in Raleigh, on October 25, 2019. Read more online at cghsnc.org/alumni/celebrations
GIBBONS GRATEFUL for
A Most Memorable Year This has been a challenging school year by any measure. The Board of Directors congratulates the Cardinal Gibbons High School community for boldly facing the challenges and turning many of them into successes. Those successes are due in large part to the leadership, strength, and vision of Nancy A. Barkan, who has served the school with distinction as Interim Principal for the last 12 months. On behalf of the Cardinal Gibbons High School Board of Directors, we extend our thanks to Nancy for filling the role during an unprecedented time in the history of our school. As principal, she continued to provide a safe learning and teaching environment, enhance the school’s culture, connect with families, past and present, and expand opportunities for students and educators. Nancy has devoted 25 years to serving as a secondary school educator and administrator, 18 of them at Cardinal Gibbons. She started in 2003 as an English educator at Cardinal Gibbons and became Assistant Principal for Instruction in 2007. Nancy tapped that wealth of experience during her tenure as principal. Over the last year, she has instituted innovative academic curriculum changes that will better prepare our students for the modern college experience and life. She also created robust programs in communications and professional development. At the start of this year, no one could have imagined the disruption COVID-19 would cause. Nancy, however, has calmly and thoughtfully led the school through its seamless transition to distance learning while at every step, maintaining the health and safety of the entire school community. And her colleagues would say she has done all that with love and compassion.
Her commitment to the mission and values of our school is unwavering, as is her devotion to our students, educators, and Catholic faith. Working collaboratively with Assistant Principals Mike Rogosich ’90 and Mike Curatolo, Nancy has maintained the school’s Catholic identity, high level of academic integrity, and the ideal of living its mission of faith, service, and leadership. In turn, she has helped position Gibbons for the next chapter in its long and storied history. She will continue to contribute to the school’s next chapter and new successes as she returns to her role as Assistant Principal for Instruction and works with Head of School, Jeff Bell, in preparing for the upcoming academic year and beyond. Please join me in thanking Nancy for her tireless efforts on behalf of the Gibbons school community. We are #GibbonsGrateful not only for her work during this past year and the years ahead but also for the work she has done since joining our school family those 18 years ago.
Tim Throndson Board of Directors Chair Spring/Summer 2020 31
GIBBONS IMPACT
THE KELLY FAMILY by Susan Kelly That all five of our children will join the Cardinal Gibbons family is just a given for us. We want them to continue their Catholic education since they have attended or are attending Catholic grade school. They thrive in the environment of faith-based academics, sports, and arts. For us, the value of Catholic education is unquestioned. So, we were excited for Caroline ’19 to start at Gibbons, followed two years later by Danny ’21. The rest of us immediately picked up on their happy freshman energy. Life for them at Gibbons has been happy and fulfilling, but also challenging in ways they could never have expected. Or us, for that matter. Gibbons has consistently pushed them - academically, theologically, socially, athletically, organizationally. But more than anything else, Gibbons has loved them. Their educators, administrators, and coaches see their potential and invest in them daily. They also check in on them, pray for them, send encouraging
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notes, congratulate them on their wins, and hold them to a higher standard—all the things we do as parents. Far more than just a Catholic education, we have found an extension of our family at Gibbons. There are people at Gibbons who care, watch, and challenge our kids just like we do. Seeing that in action has been an incredibly humbling experience that we will appreciate always. But Caroline ’19 and Danny ’21 are not the only ones who benefit from being Crusaders. As their faith lives have grown, so have ours. As we watch them stretched and working hard to meet goals and deadlines, we develop a little bit of the same grit we see in them. And as we see them pushed outside of their comfort zones, we have become more willing to embrace that challenge in certain areas of our lives. We knew Gibbons would be great for our kids. But the fact we can say the same thing as a family has put us all on a parallel path of positive energy, love, and ambition. And that is more than we could ever have imagined for OUR Gibbons experience.
Home you are invited...
Aug.
FRESHMAN WELCOME DAY FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT
Sept.
FAMILY FOOTBALL NIGHT SPIRIT WEEK HOMECOMING
Nov.
OPEN HOUSE JUNIOR MASS
In Loving Memory Thomas Bledsoe ’64 Robert “Bob” Bode ’66 Kathleen “Kathy” Field ’66 Judy Hartigan ’66 Tres Magner ’86 Charles Feltner ‘54 James Fisher III ‘02 Nicole Marie St. Michel Smith ‘02 John Philip Odhiambo Obare, Jr. ’06 Jeffrey Swain, Jr. ’07 Michael Mullins ’11 Noah Dombkowski ’16
THANKSGIVING BREAK
Dec.
CHRISTMAS BREAK
For full calendar listings, visit cghsnc.org/calendar
THANK YOU
We honor all members of our school community – students, parents, educators, alumni – who are the essential front line workers and heroes for their contributions and sacrifices. We are forever #GibbonsGrateful to you for serving us so selflessly during this unprecedented time in our history. We would like to celebrate our COVID-19 heroes. So, please nominate those in our Gibbons community who helped make a difference during these unsettling times. Fill out the nomination form here: cghsnc.org/covid19heroes
Sister Mary Jean Korejwo A member of the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame (SND) of Chardon, Ohio, our beloved Sister Mary Jean Korejwo, SND, died April 24, 2020, at age 82. She was surrounded by her SND sisters at their Provincial Center in Chardon. Sister Mary Jean served Cardinal Gibbons for 26 years with dedication and compassion. Administrators, educators, and generations of students at the school respected her for her commitment to and love of education. You knew she cared tremendously about the people at Gibbons. We were part of her family, and she was part of ours. The Charism of the Sisters of Notre Dame is “a deep experience of God’s goodness and provident care,” which they express through a spirit of joyful simplicity in their everyday lives. It is that spirit and Sister Mary Jean’s kindness and love that we will miss in our lives at Gibbons. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, And let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Raleigh, NC Permit #2212
1401 Edwards Mill Road Raleigh, NC 27607
Day Back in the
Technically, it’s not even a courtyard, or at least not what we typically think of as a courtyard. The one on the Western Blvd. campus wasn’t open to the sky nor was it wholly surrounded by walls. It was more of a breezeway or even a patio. No matter its accurate title it was “the courtyard” to generations of Gibbons students. They walked under it while changing classes, seeking refuge from the rain, or contemplating a major decision. On sunny days, it was where they would go to catch a few rays or daydream about the future. Today, the courtyard is gone but Gibbons students continue to dream.
We invite you to send in your stories about The Rock on the Edwards Mill Road campus for the next issue of GIBBONS. Please send your submissions to alumni@cghsnc.org. Contributors will receive a small Gibbons gift.
