Warrior Paths - Winter 2020 by Walsh Jesuit

MANRESA AWARDS / MIS SION WORK / MR . TRUA X

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THEN

& NOW FOLLOW & LIKE US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! : @walshjesuithighschool

: @walshjesuit

walshjesuit .org 4550 Wyoga Lake Road Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44224-1084 330.929.4205 800.686.4 694

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Connecting the Walsh Jesuit community worldwide.

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AMDG

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Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:56 PM

Tim & Rita Burke

CURRENT WALSH JESUIT PARENTS

Walsh Jesuit, a Catholic, college preparatory high school in the spirit of St. Ignatius Loyola, reaches beyond academic excellence to develop competence, conscience and compassion within its graduates. As a Christ-centered community, we strive to be Men and Women For and With Others.

President

Karl J. Ertle

Principal

Why do we give to Walsh Jesuit High School? “The Warrior Fund is very important to us. We know there is a tuition gap in the cost of educating a child and what is offered in terms of programs and educational services. For us as parents, it is important for us to bridge that gap by donating whatever dollar amount we are able at any given time. Walsh Jesuit has been a family for us from the second we stepped in the door. We felt welcomed immediately. It has been such a beautiful community of faith, education and spirituality. The Jesuit tradition of the academic rigor and the education of the whole person was very important to us and we were thrilled that our boys chose Walsh Jesuit for their high school education so that they were able to have those values instilled within their education starting in the ninth grade. ”

SCAN TO GIVE Visit walshjesuit.org to make a gift, Venmo @WalshJesuit, contact Walsh Jesuit at advancement@walshjesuit.org or 800.686.4694

Father Mark Carr, S.J.

Vice President of Advancement Patti Clair

Director of Marketing & Communications

Danielle Margheret ’13 Editor & Publisher of W a r r i o r P a t h s

scho ol n e ws ......................................... 5 Copyright 2020 Walsh Jesuit High School, all rights reserved. Warrior Paths is published by Walsh Jesuit High School, 4550 Wyoga Lake Road, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio 44224. All items submitted to Warrior Paths and Walsh Jesuit High School become the sole property of Warrior Paths and Walsh Jesuit High School and cannot be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Letters, pictures and manuscripts welcome.

for more information about giving.

st u de n t n e ws ...................................... 10 athletics ........................................... 25 a dva nce m e n t ....................................... 30 a lum n i .............................................. 32 cl a ss no tes ......................................... 42 in m e mor i a m ....................................... 46 r e w in d .............................................. 50

Winter 2020

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3/5/20 1:56 PM

Tim & Rita Burke

CURRENT WALSH JESUIT PARENTS

President

Karl J. Ertle

Principal

SCAN TO GIVE Visit walshjesuit.org to make a gift, Venmo @WalshJesuit, contact Walsh Jesuit at advancement@walshjesuit.org or 800.686.4694

Father Mark Carr, S.J.

Vice President of Advancement Patti Clair

Director of Marketing & Communications

Danielle Margheret ’13 Editor & Publisher of W a r r i o r P a t h s

for more information about giving.

Winter 2020

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from the pr eside n t

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For & With Others In 1973 — the year of the Watergate scandal hearings, the standoff at Wounded Knee & the first handheld cell — a Jesuit born in the Basque region of Spain, whom many call “the second Ignatius,” addressed the World Union of Jesuit Alumni at Valencia and challenged those before him to be “men for others.” Someone acting for others knows love of others is the heart of life, and no life well-lived can be pointed inward to self; it must go out to others. Those compelling words morphed to include women in the next decade, as more Jesuit institutions welcomed women. Thus, in the greatest change in our revered school’s history, WJ became a place for Men and Women for Others, as the school became home to women as well. Three years ago, the WJ motto was officially changed to Men and Women For and With Others. The adoption of the “and with” was a result of those working on the margins and folks in the Jesuit world who challenge all to have a greater sense of solidarity — rather than just being “for others,” being with others. This means experiencing the difficulties and immersing ourselves in others’ lives. As in our Labre Ministry, we don’t just slow down the vans and toss a sandwich to a person on Broadway or Perkins; we engage, we partner, we come to know our Labre friends by name. True friends are those who are for and with us. As we begin 2020 & embark on the second semester, the quality of Men and Women For and With Others in the WJ community has never been more prevalent. Our WJ family has outstanding examples of Christian leaders who make sacrifices for the good of others. Right before Christmas break, teachers administered exams and prepared for the end of the semester. Staff helped with logistics, settled tuition difficulties, helped with lost textbooks and provided consoling words to students stressed about taking final exams, some for the first time. More importantly, staff visited students having surgery and ministered to students whose parents were divorcing. Also, students went Christmas caroling at a home who suffered the loss of a loved one.

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THEN & NOW

Whether it’s 6:30am at a tutoring session or early practice, or it’s 10:30pm after an athletic competition, science fair or performance — our WJ family truly lives our motto and is with our amazing community. It’s about teachers coming in over the break to work with students who struggled on the exam. It’s about WJ students volunteering at holiday food drives to make Christmas special for others. It’s about the WJ family attending a celebration of a young alum’s final chemo treatment. As you may know, our students, families & employees make many sacrifices to cultivate and maintain the Walsh Jesuit community.

It’s about being and igniting Men and Women For and With Others.

Throughout this Warrior Paths, we will look back at the history of Walsh Jesuit — celebrating our past, being OPEN TO GROWTH in the present and future, and our continued mission of igniting

Men & Women For & With Others.

Because that’s how we can change the world!

Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:56 PM

from the pr eside n t

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THEN & NOW

It’s about being and igniting Men and Women For and With Others.

Throughout this Warrior Paths, we will look back at the history of Walsh Jesuit — celebrating our past, being OPEN TO GROWTH in the present and future, and our continued mission of igniting

Men & Women For & With Others.

Because that’s how we can change the world!

Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:56 PM

scho ol n e ws

Manresa Award Winners THE GERSTENMAIER FAMILY

THE BERINGER FAMILY

“ In my time at Walsh, I have learned and experienced so many different lessons that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I’ve learned that if you work hard and have a positive, motivated attitude, you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to. SAM WILLKOMM ‘20

I’ve learned that applying yourself, getting involved & stepping out of your comfort zone is important to becoming a wellrounded individual. But most importantly, I have learned that everything we do in our life is AMDG: for the greater glory of God.” — Sam Willkomm ‘20

(L-R): LOIS GERSTENMAIER, LINDA & TIM BERINGER

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JOHN GERSTENMAIER

Winter 2020

W E GI V E TH A NKS to those who have been our benefactors, all of you who do good things for the greater glory of God and WJ! At the Manresa Award Mass & Reception, we take time to celebrate all of you who serve the mission of the school and have for so many years. This year, in a special way, we honor Linda & Tim Beringer and Lois & John Gerstenmaier. The Manresa Award is Walsh Jesuit’s highest award. We gather each year to give thanks for all that so many do for Walsh Jesuit. It has been a tradition at our Manresa Award presentation to have an outstanding student for and with others reflect on the state of the school. Our speaker, senior Sam Willkomm, usually is painted up as the head Super Fan or in a jersey as a superb guard on the Warrior basketball team. Amidst all he does for WJ, Sam is an honor student & has a GPA above 4.0. The two couples we honored have a combined 60+ years of service to WJ. The Beringers and Gerstenmaiers have been great friends for over three decades. They have done many good deeds... deeds which St. Ignatius stated are where we find God, rather than in words. May they continue to inspire others to do the same!

ois & John Gerstenmaier blessed us with 3 Warriors,

Dr. John III, ’97, Dr. Aaron ’99 & Courtney Elizabeth ’08 . The

Gerstenmaiers served on several St. Sebastian committees. They also established a generous fund that still exists and helps St. Sebastian graduates of modest means to attend WJ. As their children joined Warrior Nation, the Gerstenmaiers poured themselves into all facets of WJ. Lois invented a template that is still used for POWWOW reservations & seating, and as Pam Vineyard says, “Lois just knew” how to handle 750 peoples’ preferences. Lois and John chaired POWWOW in 1999 and raised $284,000 with Linda & Don Scott. Lois served as president of the Mothers’ Club

(2006-08) & the 50th anniversary committee. Dr. John served on the advancement committee, finance, board governance & was on the Board of Directors from 2007-14. When not serving WJ, the Gerstenmaiers helped the Junior League Cotillion, providing pro bono pediatric dental services to those in need & the Children’s Hospital Women’s Board.

im & Linda Beringer were also immersed in the St. Sebastian parish. Bill Ricco, brought the Beringers to Walsh Jesuit, as they met serving on the Akron CYO Board together. They bonded over their beloved, Dayton Flyers. Tim is still so fond of his alma mater, he bakes cookies and delivers them to Walsh Jesuit grads and others to help them excel during final exams. At Walsh Jesuit, the Beringers supported the Booster Club. Tim helped focus the mission during his tenure as president, while Linda’s incredible organizational skills made the Mothers Club a well-oiled machine. Tim served on the WJ Board of Directors, and Linda assisted at her parish in many ways. They both always gave without counting the cost. The Beringers even chaired the 1993 POWWOW, which was the first one to gross more than $100,000, with Jeanne and Mike Peterson. Although he once fell asleep leaning against the clubhouse at the St. Andrew’s Old Course, Tim has amazing energy that drove him to serve as the parish athletic director for over 18 years, leading to his induction into the CYO Hall of Fame in 2017. The Beringers have given so much and served as role models, as they supported many charities, including the Blue Coats, Loyola Retreat Center and Habitat for Humanity.

THE TWO COUPLES’ faith and energy has inspired so many, and they are incredible exemplars of the Walsh Jesuit motto: “Men and Women for and with Others.” Walsh Jesuit is grateful for their life of service, and the way that they exemplify the Ignatian Magis. 7

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Manresa Award Winners THE GERSTENMAIER FAMILY

THE BERINGER FAMILY

(L-R): LOIS GERSTENMAIER, LINDA & TIM BERINGER

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JOHN GERSTENMAIER

Winter 2020

ois & John Gerstenmaier blessed us with 3 Warriors,

Dr. John III, ’97, Dr. Aaron ’99 & Courtney Elizabeth ’08 . The

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THEN

& NOW

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Eagle Scout finds a special way to be a “Man For and With Others” by Eva Janigian ’21

ONE PROMINENT REASON WA LSH JESUIT HAS A RICH TR ADITION OF EXCELLENCE IS THE COMMITMENT & LONGEVITY OF OUR BELOVED FACULTY

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TEENAGERS usually spend Saturday mornings sleeping in & watching their favorite Netflix shows. However, for senior Kaden Smesko, ‘20 and his enthusiastic volunteers, 8am on a Saturday morning was the perfect time to tackle an ambitious Eagle Scout project. Conceived, supervised and organized by Kaden, the project involved clearing and mulching the wetlands’ winding trail. The potential of the wetlands was discovered in 2002 by alumnus and environmental scientist Jim Burns. “The area has been maintained primarily by the efforts of a series of Boy Scout Eagle projects,” explained

Mrs. Mary Truax. Mr. Andy Truax, a former Scoutmaster, met with Kaden to discuss ideas for potential projects last year. Kaden said, “I picked the project after Mr. Truax & I walked to the wetlands and just brainstormed ideas.”

The wetlands contribute in a unique way to WJ’s ecosystem. The area is utilized by science classes, such as biology and environmental studies, as well as summer workshops, biology field days & labs. Community members enjoy the area as a nature trail because there are multiple bird and bat houses for beautiful bird watching. Maintenance of the wetlands was a voluntary endeavor. Over time, the path surrounding the area became almost impassable. WJ does not currently offer any funding toward keeping it cleared of overgrowth. On that rainy Saturday morn, Kaden and his volunteers took

Winter 2020

to work, after morning prayer & moment of silence for Mr. Andy Truax. Over 45 people were present. Most, including teachers Mr. Richard Sistek, Mrs. Mary Truax, & students George Zografakis, ‘20 and Alex Wintering, ‘20, picked up rakes and shovels & pushed mulchfilled wheelbarrows for hours. Others stopped by to offer encouragement. Among them were Principal Fr. Carr, President

This article was adapted from WJ’s student newpaper, The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

Mr. Karl Ertle, Ms. Liz Duarte & Coach G, ‘74. Kaden’s fellow

scouts from Troop 334 worked tirelessly from start to finish. George Zografakis explained why he felt called to lend a hand. “I came because I’m interested in environmental studies and because Mr. Truax was a really cool guy,” said George. The Walsh community knows Mr. Andy Truax as a teacher, mentor, friend, coach, & true Man For & With Others. The Scout community also admired him as a loving leader and dedicated Scoutmaster. Kaden said, “I couldn’t think of a better way to honor him and carry out his legacy.” In preparation, Kaden had to gather all materials and supplies through donations. He directed the project, but was prohibited from participating, as stated in Scout protocol for Eagle projects. Kaden submitted his project with an application to a national group, which approved his Eagle rank. This is the highest award of the Boy Scouts of America: only 2% of Boy Scouts earn this prestigious Eagle Scout rank.

KADEN (PICTURED RIGHT) LEADING MEMBERS OF TROOP 334 AS THEY RAKE OUT THE TRAIL FOR HIS EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT.

PRINCIPAL FR. CARR (LEFT) TALKS WITH KADEN (MIDDLE) & ALEX WINTERING (RIGHT) ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF THE DAY.

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THEN

& NOW

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Eagle Scout finds a special way to be a “Man For and With Others” by Eva Janigian ’21

ONE PROMINENT REASON WA LSH JESUIT HAS A RICH TR ADITION OF EXCELLENCE IS THE COMMITMENT & LONGEVITY OF OUR BELOVED FACULTY

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Winter 2020

This article was adapted from WJ’s student newpaper, The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

Mr. Karl Ertle, Ms. Liz Duarte & Coach G, ‘74. Kaden’s fellow

KADEN (PICTURED RIGHT) LEADING MEMBERS OF TROOP 334 AS THEY RAKE OUT THE TRAIL FOR HIS EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT.

PRINCIPAL FR. CARR (LEFT) TALKS WITH KADEN (MIDDLE) & ALEX WINTERING (RIGHT) ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF THE DAY.

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NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS:

st u de n t n e ws

G eorge Z ografakis (semifinalist), Christopher Wurst (commended), Leah S mith (semifinalist), L auren Lewis (commended), Ben Stanard (commended), E mma Pastrik (commended), A llie Powers (commended)

Warriors win big at 2019 Dazzle Awards Margo Tipping ‘20

John & Patricia Chapman Best Actress Dazzle Award.

by Rebekah Verdun ’21 THIS

PAST

SPRING,

seniors

Margo Tipping ‘20, Charlie Kadair ‘20 and alum Jojo Radecky ’19, competed in the 2019 Playhouse Square Dazzle Awards. The event, currently in its 5th season, recognizes & honors high school musical theater throughout oll of Northeast Ohio. Three judges attended a performance of Centerstage Theater’s production of “Hello, Dolly!” They were judging the overall production as well as individual performances. Six performers were eligible for an individual award: Dom

Mazzulo ‘20, Connor Cline ‘20, Tipping and Kadair, along with alums Jackie Ward ‘19 and Radecky. These students then auditioned in front of judges in Cleveland with a song from the show & a contrasting song.

MARGO TIPPING SOBS JOYFULLY AFTER WINNING THE BEST ACTRESS AWARD.

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was awarded the...

Tipping, Kadair and Radecky were called back & performed again. Kadair remarked on the experience, “[The] Dazzles gave me the chance to share what I love to do in front of a massive audience.” The nominations for the awards were broadcasted on Channel 8. The three students representing WJ were nominated in different categories: Tipping for Best Actress as Irene

Molloy, Kadair for Best Actor as Cornelius Hackle and Radecky for Best Supporting Actress as Minnie Fay. Tipping recalled the moment she learned she was nominated: “I was very shocked that I was nominated in the first place, because I went into the experience not really expecting anything. But the nomination was an honor, and I was very shocked.” The Dazzle Awards took place at the Connor (‘74) Palace in Playhouse Square. The week before the show, all the nominees underwent a boot camp to learn new songs which they sang together. The participants also performed the numbers at the show prior to the announcement of the winners.

Theater

National Signing Day

& NOW

Band

THEN

National Merit Scholars Honored

S TUDENT NEWS

Performing Arts

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

Winter 2020

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NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS:

st u de n t n e ws

G eorge Z ografakis (semifinalist), Christopher Wurst (commended), Leah S mith (semifinalist), L auren Lewis (commended), Ben Stanard (commended), E mma Pastrik (commended), A llie Powers (commended)

Warriors win big at 2019 Dazzle Awards Margo Tipping ‘20

John & Patricia Chapman Best Actress Dazzle Award.

by Rebekah Verdun ’21 THIS

PAST

SPRING,

seniors

MARGO TIPPING SOBS JOYFULLY AFTER WINNING THE BEST ACTRESS AWARD.

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was awarded the...

Theater

National Signing Day

& NOW

Band

THEN

National Merit Scholars Honored

S TUDENT NEWS

Performing Arts

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

st u de n t n e ws

The

Saunders Twins

st u de n t n e ws FAVORITE HIGH SCHOOL MEMORY? Olivia: My favorite high school memory so far is meeting amazing new people and going to mass when I can in the morning. Nick: My favorite memory so far is running cross country in the McQuaid Invitational in New York and hanging out with the boys. FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A WARRIOR? Olivia: I love talking about this school and it is giving me a chance to express myself through clubs and sports. Nick: My favorite part about being a Warrior is being able to get involved and surrounding myself with amazing people everyday. UNWRITTEN RULE AT WJ? Olivia: Don’t make the deans mad. Nick: Do not stand in the middle of the hallway while people are trying to get to class. :) FAVORITE SUBJECT? Olivia: English - I love writing essays and expressing myself through the essays. Nick: I love theology! It’s just amazing how deep you can truly think about God and your life. EXTRACURRICULARS / SPORTS ARE YOU INVOLVED IN? Olivia: I am involved in concert band, marching band, and film. Nick: I am involved in cross country, marching band, concert band, and show choir. SKILLS MOST DON’T KNOW ABOUT? Olivia: I am double jointed. Nick: I absolutely love to perform and create my own music. DESCRIBE A DAY IN YOUR LIFE: Olivia: Wake up at 5:45, eat breakfast, drive or take the bus to school, classes, see my friends, go home, do homework, eat dinner, go to sleep, repeat. Nick: Wake up at 6:30 and trying my best in each class, while staying positive.

SOMETHING YOU COULD BRAG ABOUT, BUT DON’T? Olivia: I am Russian. Nick: I can run a 400 meter dash in 57 seconds. PROUDEST MOMENT? Olivia: Being born. Nick: My proudest moment was when I finally taught myself how to play the guitar. It was an absolute struggle. YOUR IDOL? Olivia: My idol is Helen Keller. She inspires me to keep going if things don’t work out. Nick: My idol is Jesus Christ, and I do try to live as He did everyday. FAVORITE THING ABOUT HAVING A TWIN? Olivia: I have someone that I can relate to and he can help me with homework or something that is bothering me. Nick: I love how we are always there for each other, and we know how to cheer each other up. ADVICE FOR A STRANGER? Olivia: Live your life to the fullest and never give up. Nick: Always take risks and seize opportunities in your life. Even if fear is the only thing in your way. YOUR THEME SONG? Olivia: Bohemian Rhapsody. It is my favorite song ever. Nick: Speechless - Dan & Shay TITLE OF YOUR BIOGRAPHY? Olivia: The Most Entertaining Life Nick: The Adventures of Flats WHAT WOULD BE YOUR HASHTAG? Olivia: #youcandothis Nick: #neverbeaquitter

U p, U p & A way !

GRACE ANCHORING A BALLOON TO THE GROUND IN ORDER TO KEEP IT STEADY WHILE INFLATION, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE CROWN LINE,” ONE OF THE MANY TASKS THAT ARE INVOLVED WITH “CREWING.” (PHOTO VIA DIANA BECK)

“IN THE BA LLOON , it’s both calm and suspenseful.” That’s how Grace

Lutkus, ‘23 described the feeling of floating soundlessly, hundreds of feet through the sky, participating in competitive hot air ballooning.

The aim of competitive ballooning is deceivingly simple. Contestants are given a small, weighted bag and GPS coordinates which lead them to a “X” on a field. The goal is to drop the bag as close to the center of the “X” as possible. The closer to the center, the more points are earned. Although this may sound easy, several factors make this feat tremendously difficult. Grace stated, “it may sound easy to just fly somewhere, but when you are in a hot air balloon, there is no steering - only wind.” This challenge forces ballooners to anticipate different wind directions and use them to their advantage. “[Ballooners] use ropes in the basket to go up and down, which makes them travel through the different wind layers,” Grace explained.

Grace Lutkus ‘23, soars aloft in her mom’s hot air balloon “Goodnight Gracie” by Noor Shah ’23

Grace’s mother has ballooned for 25 years & introduced Grace to the sport. Even as a toddler, Grace loved seeing her mom compete. As she got older, her love for ballooning only grew, and she began to “crew” for her mom, a job she enjoys to this day. The crew, which includes Grace’s aunts and others, helps with everything from inflating the balloon, to anchoring it, to deflating it. The crew is crucial to making sure the ballooning trip runs smoothly.

The balloon’s name, “Goodnight Gracie” originated because of an event known as a balloon glow, which is usually held at the end of a hot air balloon festival. Essentially, the anchored illuminated balloons contrast against the starry night sky, creating a picturesque scene. When Grace was younger, she begged her parents to allow her to stay up for the balloon glow. However, her mother sent her to bed, saying, “Goodnight, Gracie.”

Recently, Grace’s mom designed a new balloon with Grace. They worked on graphics together, with Grace working meaningful elements of her life into the ballon. As an avid equestrian, Grace decided to include a silhouette depicting her riding a horse. She explained, “The horse has a ‘W’ on the saddle pad, because my horse’s name was Warrior.”

Although Grace loves the feeling of drifting through the sky in a balloon and helping crew for her mother, the ballooning community is also incredibly important to her. She enjoys the sense of togetherness that is shared.

The other graphic depicts a moon wearing a nightcap with a silhouette of a dolphin to pay homage to her favorite animal.

“We are a team even though we are competing against each other,” she stated. So, as you enjoy wonderful weather, look up, and you may see Gracie” coasting “Goodnight through the bright blue sky.

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

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Winter 2020

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st u de n t n e ws

The

Saunders Twins

U p, U p & A way !

“IN THE BA LLOON , it’s both calm and suspenseful.” That’s how Grace

Lutkus, ‘23 described the feeling of floating soundlessly, hundreds of feet through the sky, participating in competitive hot air ballooning.

Grace Lutkus ‘23, soars aloft in her mom’s hot air balloon “Goodnight Gracie” by Noor Shah ’23

The other graphic depicts a moon wearing a nightcap with a silhouette of a dolphin to pay homage to her favorite animal.

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

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Winter 2020

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Gabriela Covas ’20

his past summer, I traveled to Escuintla, Guatemala, on a Walsh Jesuit immersion trip. International Samaritan, a non-profit organization that works in many impoverished countries to help people out of poor communities, coordinated our service trip. The first day, we explored beautiful Antigua. During the days to follow, we worked at the San Gabriel school in Escuintla on the student’s court. Previously, this court was unsafe. We spent hours doing digging up the grass, digging trenches, and making and pouring cement to rebuild this court for the children. It was a very labor intensive week, and my back has never hurt more, but it was one of the best experiences of my life, and I had fun doing it. We worked hard, but also got to spend time talking and playing soccer & dodgeball with the people & children of Escuintla. It was truly an amazing and eye opening experience, and we made so many great relationships with the people there. I would love to go back, and hope I can someday. The trip impacted my life in many ways. I have greater self awareness in the way I use material goods, such as not wasting food & water. I learned the value of genuine relationships, and brought that knowledge into my own life with my family and friends. After seeing how little the people had and how happy they were still, I realized we do not need much to be happy, as long as we have genuine relationships. Because of the trip,

Guatema la

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Walsh Jesuit & this trip inspired and ignited me to want to be a Woman For and With Others,

because I have seen the importance of being able to work with others to make the world a better and more content place to live, especially for those who are unable to themselves.

Blythe Gaspar ’20

 Winter 2020

felt like a Woman For and With Others. Even though we only spent a week providing service, the people of the community made us feel like we had helped for months. They were so thankful for every second of our time. Meeting people in the community and learning their struggles had a major impact on me, yet I think the most lasting part of the trip were the reflections we had every night. It was during these reflections that I started to realize the impact that this trip was having on me.

erving others through an immersion trip is one of the best decisions I have made in my entire life. When I found out I was going on the Guatemala trip with Mrs. Drake, Mrs. Arlia, Coach G, ‘74 & ten of my classmates, I was elated to grow closer to this amazing group. The journey started when we explored the city of Antigua. On the first day, we went to a chocolate store and learned the history of Guatemala and the cacao plant, attended mass completely in Spanish and went to a shop that sold beautiful jade. This immersed us in the culture and history of Guatemala. Throughout the week, we worked hard to fix a soccer court and finish the construction of a new house by the school. We broke through the cement to create holes in the court, mixed new cement, painted, and put stucco on the walls of the house. One moment I will forever remember was when we were working in the house, and we had a ‘fight’ with stucco. We were throwing it and wiping it on each other, and eventually, we were covered head to toe. After our hard work was complete, all of the amazing people we met expressed their gratitude for our help through tears, hugs, smiles and handshakes. I have never felt so warm inside, and after that week, I truly

Mission Work in 14

I have a stronger drive to to go out and help others in any way I can. Seeing how grateful the people were, truly changed me for the better.

I learned service does not just stop after this, and I need to bring it back home to the Walsh Jesuit community. I learned the people that have the least often want to give the most, and that I should be more grateful for the privileges my life has gifted me. Moreover, I learned how quickly a group of people can bond when there is a shared passion for helping others. God was with me in my reflections, in the mindful responses of my classmates and teachers, and through the wise words of our new friends, Pablo and Francisco.

I felt like God was speaking to me saying, “This is what life is all about.” I knew God put me on this trip for a reason, and I realized His reason was to teach me to immerse myself as a Woman For and With Others, form lifelong friendships and develop a burning passion for serving others. 15

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Gabriela Covas ’20

Guatema la

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Walsh Jesuit & this trip inspired and ignited me to want to be a Woman For and With Others,

because I have seen the importance of being able to work with others to make the world a better and more content place to live, especially for those who are unable to themselves.

Blythe Gaspar ’20

 Winter 2020

Mission Work in 14

I have a stronger drive to to go out and help others in any way I can. Seeing how grateful the people were, truly changed me for the better.

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by Dave LaGuardia ’97 & Tony Dipre ’06

st u de n t n e ws

Men and Women For and With Others

Arrupe identifies Jesus as the ultimate model of a person for others. For him, Jesus calls us to turn from ego to love - as St. Thomas Aquinas defined it, “willing the good of the other.” Jesus encourages us to value the other the naked, sick, stranger, prisoner, Samaritan, enemy, crucifier. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus even “identifies himself with the poor and the powerless, with all who are hungry and miserable.”

This leaves us wondering, how well do we understand the gravity of this message? Undoubtedly, the phrase ‘Men & Women for and with Others’ becomes ingrained in every person who is part of the Walsh Jesuit family. We’re reminded of it as we enter the school parking lot, or as we walk through the commons. We know it, yet I find myself asking...

“Do we really embrace it?”

Arrupe outlines three concrete attitudes that we should cultivate as we strive to become persons for and with others: “A firm determination to live much more simply… A firm determination to draw no profit whatsoever from clearly unjust structure… A firm resolve to be agents of change in society … to reform unjust social structures.”

— Live simply, no unjust profit, change injustice —

live simply no unjust profit change injustice Last November, Jesuit institutions honored the 30th anniversary of the 1989 murder of six Jesuits and two women. No doubt, these martyred Jesuits were motivated by the same speech that inspired our school motto, Pedro Arrupe’s Men and Women for Others. The memory of their sacrifice offers an opportunity to return to our roots and remember what Pedro Arrupe’s speech challenged us to become. He asserted “the prime educational objective must be to form Men and Women for Others.” 16

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Arrupe explained such people are unable to “conceive a love of God which does not include love for the least of their neighbors” and would be “completely convinced that love of God that doesn’t issue in justice for others is a farce.” If we love God, we must care about suffering humanity, and if we care about others, we must ask whether our world is structured in a way that contributes to the suffering of the poor and vulnerable.

Arrupe then references the Ignatian practice of discernment. It begins with an open consideration of the question, “What is God’s will?” Ignatius’ understanding of humans as loved sinners gives us permission to accept that we will not always be right. Liberating ourselves from the myth of perfection allows us to adopt Ignatius’ own self-understanding. We are continuously challenged to work toward a better understanding of what living well means in the context of our own lives.

“God’s grace calls us not only to win back our whole selves for God, but to win back our whole world for God. We cannot separate personal conversion from structural social reform.” He asks us to live as people for and with others, and we should not be surprised that trying to take Jesus seriously may point toward a difficult path. Arrupe anticipated that this path would involve sacrifice. “It is precisely those who suffer persecution for the sake of justice who are blessed. It is precisely the crucified who pass through the world ‘doing good and healing all’.” As Jesus demonstrated, sacrifice and self-transcendence can be life-giving qualities. The Jesuit martyrs died in solidarity with the crucified people of El Salvador. They knew that living in solidarity with the impoverished Salvadorans put their lives in danger, but they chose to live for something beyond themselves. Jon Sobrino, SJ prayed that his beloved friends would rest in peace, and added, “May their peace give hope to us who are still alive, and their memory not let us rest in peace.” Rather than resting in peace, we ought to recall Pope Paul VI’s counsel “If you want peace, work for justice.” As Arrupe might have said, if you want a more peaceful world, strive to be a person for and with others.

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PEDRO ARRUPE

Whether taken separately or as a whole, these defining characteristics of a person for others ask more of us than to simply be a nice person. Fr. Jim King introduced me to the challenge of being a person for others and made me aware of the martyrs who selflessly lived as persons for and with others. Of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador, Fr. King said, “I visited their shrine several times. I pray to them (daily) and am in awe of what they did. They were martyrs of the faith. They died in defense of the poor. They were men for the poor and persecuted.”

“This is about being Christian… It’s what we’re supposed to do, loving our neighbor. It’s that simple; we’re supposed to reach out to the poor and persecuted.” When considering real-world applications of Jesus’ teachings, these ideals should serve as north stars that point us toward essential adjustments in ourselves and in our world. Our own ‘pilgrim journey’ is to discern what it means to live out our faith and ideals. When we strive to live as people for and with others, we become part of a community. What could be better than journeying with friends in the Walsh Jesuit community, as we all strive to live for something beyond ourselves?

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by Dave LaGuardia ’97 & Tony Dipre ’06

st u de n t n e ws

Men and Women For and With Others

“Do we really embrace it?”

— Live simply, no unjust profit, change injustice —

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PEDRO ARRUPE

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&NOW

THEN

Who knew all

the good

by Noor Shah ’23

I T ’S D R E S S D O W N DA Y.

Dave LaGuardia ’97

MISSION & MINISTRY

Tony Dipre ’06

Chapel

You walk to the table, hand over your $3, get your hand stamped and move on. Do you know where your money goes? More importantly, do you know the good you do when you choose to dress down? Dress down day money goes to the Service, Immersion, Retreat Fund (SIRF), previously called the Xavier Fund. The contributions support service and retreat activities and aid students who are not financially able to participate in U.S. and international experiences sponsored by Campus Ministry. Mr. Dunn, Director of Campus Ministry, believes the collections have been around for at least a decade, but probably much more. He explained that “SIRF exists so that people can participate. All people can participate. And it’s Ignatian at its core.” Each year, twenty-five to thirty thousand dollars are collected. Because dress down days are the only source of income for SIRF, Walsh provides few to no free dress down days. Some of the money pays for transportation to retreats and, on occasion, lunches. More significantly, contributions are distributed to individual students through a process tied in with financial aid. Essentially, the percentage that a student receives in tuition aid is the same that they can get for a retreat, service, or immersion trip. The cost of immersion trips can be expensive, as they not only include transportation and room and board for both students and chaperones, but it also covers the materials for the various building projects done during immersions.

Labre

you do?

Senior Alex (Alexandria) Pfaff went to Guatemala this past summer. “We helped build a soccer field for a school,” she said. That building project exemplifies Walsh’s impact on the areas where students work They leave tangible evidence of what they’ve done, whether it be a classroom, a playground or a soccer field. Immersion trips provide lifechanging experiences for students. Senior Jack Lubinski traveled to Guatemala with Alex and was so moved by his experience that he started a Go Fund Me page for the school where they worked. He stated, “The people that you meet are the most rewarding part. They have close to nothing but are always trying to give you everything they can.”

GREG GEBHART ‘23 GIVES MONEY TO STUDENTS WORKING WITH CAMPUS MINISTRY TO SUPPORT IMMERSION TRIPS

Anne Sweeney, another senior, has gone on two immersions. She journeyed to Pine Ridge, a Native American reservation in South Dakota, the summer before her junior year. This past summer, Anne traveled to Nogales, a city on the border between Arizona and Mexico. “I gained a ton of new knowledge regarding immigration and met a lot of incredible people. It humanized the immigration issue,” she said. Although many students are unaware of where their money goes, some consciously choose to dress down to support SIRF. Sophomore Katherine Malynn is one. She explained, “I feel it’s going to a good cause and is a great thing that our school does.” Freshman Jenna Guiher stated, “I [will] be more compelled to donate because I know exactly what my money is going towards.”

SERVING AT BETHLEHEM FARM, WV, (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM) CHAPERONE MRS. LEE ANN WALLACE, TYLER LIGAN, DAVID THOMPSON, RACE POTOCIN, BRYNN LEBLANC, ADDISON BURKE, AJ DASHNER, SARAH SALEK, ALLIE POWERS, MERAIAH KONN.

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

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&NOW

THEN

Who knew all

the good

by Noor Shah ’23

I T ’S D R E S S D O W N DA Y.

Dave LaGuardia ’97

MISSION & MINISTRY

Tony Dipre ’06

Chapel

Labre

you do?

GREG GEBHART ‘23 GIVES MONEY TO STUDENTS WORKING WITH CAMPUS MINISTRY TO SUPPORT IMMERSION TRIPS

This article was adapted from The Pioneer Check it out at: thepioneerwjhs.com

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Coach G THEN & NOW 20

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Coach G THEN & NOW 20

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The Humble Warrior Legend

Grescovich Wins

Caraboolad

by Michael Desciscio ’20

Coach of the Year Pope Francis once said, “Be Men & Women with and for others: true champions at the ser vice of others.”

Younger students who have not had him in class also responded in amazement of how selfless and loving Coach G is.

A beloved coach and teacher of Walsh Jesuit does this every day. Mr. Steve Grescovich ‘74, a speech teacher, football coach and baseball coach, is the definition of what a Man For and With Others looks like. Whether he is teaching, coaching or just speaking to others in the hallway, people receive his welcome and love.

Sophomore Anthony Calleri ’22 said, “When I think of Coach G, I instantly think about how caring and loving he is to the students at Walsh Jesuit. The fact that he takes the time out of his day to write every student a personalized birthday card shows how much he cares for every student. That to me is a man for and with others.”

Students were asked to state something about Mr. Grescovich, well-known as Coach G. After hearing some of the responses, one could say he is a “true champion at the service of others.” Two seniors at Walsh Jesuit High discussed how Mr. Grescovich goes out of his way for others.

Grace Nemer ’20 said, “Coach G makes class and feedback personalized. With this feedback I have learned valuable life lessons and even without knowing him, one would easily be able to see and understand how much he really cares about his students and their best interests, his coworkers and Walsh Jesuit High School.” “Coach G is special to me & many other students, because he goes out of the way to not only get to know his students, but also to connect in and out of the classroom,” explained Braden Ost ’20.

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“Coach G is a man who is truly able to bring out the best in those around him through his compassion for others. Whenever I see him, he is always helping the community of Walsh Jesuit. I have never seen someone who is so devoted to be someone who can be a role model for his students, his fellow faculty members, and the WJ community,” said junior Matthew Fazio ’21. In one last response, a student wrote how grateful she is for Mr. Grescovich. Senior Natalie Chase ’20 said, “If I were to describe Coach G, I would say how he is a welcoming and kindhearted man who makes every person he interacts with feel valued and cared for. He has a unique ability to command his audience to listen to him, even though he is soft-spoken, and he always makes an intentional effort to genuinely see how you’re doing. He cares about his students and other people, and I truly appreciate him for that. I honestly believe he

makes the world a better place a little more each and every day.”

On behalf of the entire school, I want to thank Mr. Grescovich for being a great teacher, awesome coach and an all-around amazing and loving person.

(The following article was written by Ralph Paulk of the Akron Beacon Journal and was reprinted with permission. It has been adapted from the Warrior Paths, Volume 8, from the Summer of 1992.) There are coaches who talk out of both sides of their mouths. They say winning isn’t everything. But losing invariably strips away the mask that shields the ugly side of their personalities. John McKay, who’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers scaled unimaginable heights of mediocrity, says a successful coach is one who has the respect of those athletes and peers. Respect. Some coaches never earn it. Buddy Ryan made the Philadelphia Eagles contenders. Mike Ditka made the Chicago Bears champions. Billy Martin was a winner in every city that would have him. Bobby Knight can boast of having three NCAA basketball titles. Yet, the Citizen of the year award was always safe from their grasp. Not that they cared, really. It’s fashionable for coaches to throw chairs and temper tantrums, bend recruiting rules, abuse players and those empowered to police them. But amid this quagmire, there are coaches like Steve Grescovich ‘74 of Walsh Jesuit High School who have earned everyone’s respect. Grescovich is more than a coach. He is a confidant, friend and counsel. He is like the late Clem Caraboolad; the Walsh Jesuit and Hoban coach & teacher who taught him theology in the classroom and tutored him on the sidelines. He learned from Caraboolad patience and humility as well as Xs and Os. Steve Grescovich’s success in both the classroom and on the athletic field has earned him

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the 1991 Beacon Journal Caraboolad Coach of the Year Award. Steve Grescovich has guided Walsh Jesuit’s baseball teams to ten consecutive winning seasons. Also, as an offensive line coach for football, Grescovich has helped propel the Warriors to the Division I State playoffs three times. Grescovich does it without ranting & raving in the dugout, slinging bats or spitting tobacco in the umpire’s face. He has done it by getting the best out of his players. “Coach G you will do anything for you,” said Scott Carr ’93, “and we’ll do anything for him.” Grescovich’s 156 when and eight conference championships aren’t the barometers by which his success is measured. Instead, it’s his character that has gained him the admiration of former and present players. The award is given for performance as a coach, teacher and citizen and for contributions to students, school and society. If you have contributed as much to student athletes as Grescovich, who does it with a quiet, unassuming personality. He has been coaching & teaching for 15 years… all year round. While some coaches sail or curse the trees and lakes on the golf course, Grescovich’s off-season is all business. Although each of the award finalist candidates were very deserving, the 10-member selection committee had little difficulty in choosing Steve. “Steve’s whole life has been committed to Walsh Jesuit,” said WJ’s

Athletic Director, Grant Conzaman. “He would be the most difficult person for the school to replace.” With the exception of a brief stint at Sill Junior High, Grescovich has spent his entire teaching and coaching career at his alma mater. He was a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Akron when he became a Walsh Jesuit’s junior varsity baseball coach in 1976. Despite his success and popularity, Coach Grescovich is hardly the most recognizable coach at this all boys Catholic school that announced plans to admit girls. Walsh Jesuit’s Frank Lupica is among the most respected basketball coaches. Gerry Rardin ’72 is a brilliant football strategist. Unlike Lupica & Rardin, Grescovich never has been honored as Summit County Coach of the Year. Like his honored colleagues, though, Steve Grescovich is a winner. “There are other coaches who fall into the same category with me,” Steve Grescovich said. “Any one of them could have won the (Caraboolad) award.” “Not every coach has won the confidence of his players quite like Coach Grescovich,” says Grant Conzaman. “Even players’ parents marvel at his communication skills and the camaraderie that exists on all of his teams.” “He is genuine and his feelings toward people and he is an excellent communicator,” said John Flasco, whose son, Greg Flasco ‘83, played baseball for Coach Grescovich before

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The Humble Warrior Legend

Grescovich Wins

Caraboolad

by Michael Desciscio ’20

Coach of the Year Pope Francis once said, “Be Men & Women with and for others: true champions at the ser vice of others.”

Younger students who have not had him in class also responded in amazement of how selfless and loving Coach G is.

WP_Winter_2020.indd 22-23

makes the world a better place a little more each and every day.”

On behalf of the entire school, I want to thank Mr. Grescovich for being a great teacher, awesome coach and an all-around amazing and loving person.

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“I have a lot of great memories of Mr. G both on and off the baseball and football fields. However, the two things that I think about most often related to Mr. G are two of the quotes that were on the wall in his classroom back in the late 1980s. These are probably not exactly verbatim, but this is how I remember them: “The harder I work, the luckier I seem to get,” and “You are who you are when no one is watching.” One of those quotes pops into my head at least once a week. Not only are they great words to live by, they epitomize Mr. G, the work ethic he exemplifies, and the great example he is of being a good person and doing the right thing. It may sound a little corny, but those two quotes, coupled with my wife always telling my kids and me to “surround yourselves with good people,” have probably helped me make a lot of good decisions in my life and certainly avoid some bad ones.” Vic Ferguson ‘90, November 2019 24

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playing in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ organization. “My son saw someone outside the family living what we have been teaching him,” Flasco added. “Now Greg is one of the first people to reach out when his friends are in need. He has many of the qualities that Coach G has.” These are the qualities Coach C passed on to Coach G. “When I struggled with something, he (Caraboolad) counseled me,” said Grescovich, who coached two years with Caraboolad at Walsh Jesuit. “He was analytical and had a deep interest in players. “I learned from him how to treat people with respect. He worked with kids in various areas of their lives.” “I get an opportunity to work with a variety of kids,” says Grescovich, a member of the Student Service Board at Walsh Jesuit. “The kids are the purpose for what I do. It makes my job easier. There are kids who struggle. They struggle with their own lives, but they must understand there is good in them. I try to give the most of myself. It’s very satisfying to help other people.” And he was there to help Scott Carr survive a turbulent moment in life. Carr was devastated by the death of his best friend, Kevin Wolfe, shortly before the start of the last baseball season. “It was a time in my life where I realized how special Coach G was to me,” Carr said. “He wrote me a letter while I was away at the funeral. When I returned, he was the first one there to comfort me. I truly didn’t feel I could go on, but Coach G was there for me. He helped me through the most terrible time in my life.” Grescovich has given so much of himself, the 700-plus students at Walsh Jesuit have become his family. And he would have it no other way. Even though Grescovich is usually lowkey, his teams haven’t won 156 games with his hands tied behind his back and his emotions totally in check. “I wouldn’t say he is mellow,” Conzaman said. “He wants to win, but it’s not life or death for him. He is as competitive as anyone. He isn’t prone to do anything to offend the kids or the opponent. He gets excited when the game is going on, but he keeps things in perspective. He is demanding and an excellent technician.” Grescovich, whose teams have won three district titles and one regional championship, has produced several All-District & All-State baseball players including: Scott Kaczmar ‘90; Grescovich’s assistant Pat Smith ‘86; Terry Stanoch ‘83; Buddy Huebner ‘82; and John Putz ‘84. Scott Kaczmar ‘90 was a member of the

Warriors’ 1989 team that advanced to the Class AAA State semi-finals. It was a powerhitting team that included pitchers Vic Ferguson ‘90 and Russ Eckard ‘89, Mark Stockinger ‘89 and Lowell Huth ‘89. The Warriors, who finished 17-4 despite several late-season rainouts, won the North Canton Class AAA Regional by upsetting tournament favorite Austintown Fitch 6-3 for the title. But, they lost to the eventual state runner-up, Upper Arlington, 15-9 after leading 7-2in the fourth inning. “I didn’t like losing that game,” Grescovich said, “but the kids did the best they could. Sometimes you come up short.”

“It’s very satisfying when you win, but it’s more gratifying and rewarding to have that kind of relationship I have with the kids. It’s nice to be in their weddings and watch them become men. Those things are most memorable and important.”

athletics

2019 Fall Sports Recap

MEN ’ S SOCCER

WOMEN ’ S SOCCER

The 2019 Walsh Jesuit men’s soccer program enjoyed much success. Each of our three teams, comprised of approximately 60 young men combined, displayed consistent improvement throughout the season. Coaches Brian Lutz ‘15 and Kiyo Ichikawa instilled accountability and tactical awareness among our junior varsity teams that will enhance their development. The varsity team improved progressively after unfavorable results at the Ohio Jesuit Cup against Cincinnati St. Xavier and Toledo St. Johns. Thereafter, the team won eight of its next nine games, including a six game win streak – the longest sustained success for a varsity team in nearly ten years. The team finished in second place in the North Coast League, anchored by Joseph DeCarlo, the conference Defensive MVP. As the coaching staff looks to the 2020 season, the return of several young players and statistical leaders, combined with a group of dedicated young men eager to shine, presents a great outlook. Most importantly, we extend our sincere appreciation to our nine seniors for their commitment and contributions to our program, and wish them much success as alumni of Walsh Jesuit men’s soccer.

ur 2019 soccer season this fall was great. We lost 11 O seniors from the previous year (2018) so I was concerned with this year’s leadership and chemistry knowing there would be many new faces. Fortunately, our seniors this year, and our captains especially, did an incredible job with leading, making sure all new and returning players fit in together to become a team. We slowly became a team of girls that cared for one another and played for one another. Our captains this year were Noel Bentley, Sophia Gorski, Morgan Pentz and Blythe Gaspar. On the field the girls did a great job, we had an undefeated regular season (13-0-3) playing some of the best teams in the state. We won the North Coast League for the 7th consecutive year, we were Sectional and District champs and we made it to the Regional Finals (State Qtrs.) before losing to Medina 1-0. Our final record was 17-1-3. Sophia Gorski was named North Coast Defender of the Year, while Kathryn Ramicone was named Offensive Player of the Year in our league. Sophia was also selected as District D1 Player of the Year, while Ramicone was selected as a 1st Team all district. Sophia Gorski was selected All-Ohio 1st team, while Ramicone was All-Ohio 2nd team. Lastly, Sophia Gorski and Morgan Pentz were invited to play in the All-American game (Dec. 7) in Orlando, and I was selected as a coach for this game.

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athletics

2019 Fall Sports Recap

MEN ’ S SOCCER

WOMEN ’ S SOCCER

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athletics

athletics WOMEN ’ S VOLLE YBALL

FOOTBALL WJ football looked to restore tradition in 2019. The Warriors improved in all aspects and ended a losing streak by beating NDCL in the Homecoming game. This group of resilient players bought into the new coaching style and began playing new brand of football that future teams will be able to build on. The program’s future is bright with our freshmen team finishing with an 8-2 record and 43 players strong. Coach Alexander is thankful to this senior class for believing in him and leading the change. It started this year, and they left a legacy. The team was led by Senior QB, Cameron Mayes, with a record setting year: 2020 Passing yards - 2nd 142 Completions - 1st 296 yd passing game - 2nd CAREER: 3,361 passing yards - 2nd CAREER: 27 passing TD’s - 2nd

WOMEN ’ S GOLF

MEN ’ S GOLF

The Wj Men’s Golf team met expectations this season. Lead by a blend of experienced upper-classmen and two young sophomores, the Warriors, which graduated 3 of the top 6 from 2018, again qualified for the State Championship finals. The team finished with an impressive 14 (out of 20) Top 5 team finishes throughout the fall including an 8th place finish at the State Championship. The Warriors won titles at the Brunswick Invitational, the NDCL Lion Invite and the Lexington Invite as well as the runner-up at the Gilmour Invite, NCL Championship and State Sectional Championship. A big reason for the great performance, was the offseason advancement and dedication of Junior Ben Cors & seniors Colton Levey & Jay Magyari, who each greatly improved their fitness in preparation of the demanding schedule. Each recognized with AllDistrict honors and each attained career low’s during the season with Ben 69, Jay 73 and Colton 72. Junior Ben Cors received NCL 1st Team All-Conference and Medalist honors with a (69). His regular season scoring average was 72.1, and Cors earning 5 Medalist Titles and 14 Top 3 finishes is one of the best years in Walsh Jesuit golf history.

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Colton and Jay each averaged 78.7 regular season with a medalist title going to Colton with his 72 at Westbrook and Jay a runnerup claim at the Brunswick Invitational (73). Talented multisport athlete Donovan Morris was a great support, lending himself to his teammates’ mental preparation throughout the post season. He and seniors Levey and Magyari will be greatly missed. Josh Weiner, Ethan Shah, Lucas Fall and Jackson Holzapel should step up to success in 2020.

The WJ Women’s Golf team was challenged from the start of the 2019 season. Lead by two seniors and one junior (all two-year starters), the lady Warriors were a team of five total players — which is a tough ask of any varsity high school team. The team still rose to the occasion, finishing with a North Coast League Championship win, a 3rd place finish (NEO Championship) and two 4th place finishes, including the State Sectional qualifier, which advanced them to the District finals. The Lady Warriors collected

individual awards during the season, with senior Gwen Bush and junior Nicolina Valore being named 1st team all-conference in the North Coast League and the NEO Independent Schools League. Bush was a medalist in the championship with a career best of 75 and was also 2nd team All-District. Senior Karis Oziomek, junior Suzette Gissinger and sophomore Grace Bandwen each attained career bests during the season, and each earned All-District Honorable Mention.

2019 Varsity Volleyball began the season with a positive spirit and great hope for the year. While they struggled to succeed, their positive spirit and dedication to the sport never wavered, taking them to the District in the OHSAA tournament.

MEN ’ S CROSS COUNTRY Captains Seth Carr, Karios McCune, and Jason Sagun began

summer by organizing team group runs, and the season culminated with standout sophomore Luke Ondracek representing WJ at the State Cross Country Championship. Luke capped off an outstanding season in 80th place out of 186 runners in the Division 1, running a 16:34 for the 5k race, finishing as a top underclassmen in Ohio.

Throughout the season, the team was comprised of the following runners, sophomore Luke Ondracek, Juniors Gavin McHale, Kunal Jain, Gavin Carr, and Noah Schlueter as well as Senior Karios McCune and Sophomore Luke Lenz. The team improved as the year went on, the Warriors finished higher each meet, and began to compete with the better teams. For instance, at the Stow Bulldog Invitational, which featured several State qualifying teams, the Warriors took 6th out of 17 teams. Then, the Warriors won the North Coast League Championship as a team, which was led the by the League’s Most Valuable Runner, Luke Ondracek, who won the race for the Warriors. At the District Meet, the Varsity ran one of their best team races, but were 12 points from qualifying as a team to Regionals.

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The Warriors have already set their sights on running as a team at the Regional and even the State Meet, and with the right dedication and commitment to both winter and summer training and a strong Track and Field season, the Warriors will seek to reach their goals.

FIELD HOCKE Y

The Field Hockey team had its best season since becoming a varsity sport 3 years ago. The team went 6-7 during regular season, beating teams like Ottawa Hills and Hawken to improve on past records. Besides its record, the team greatly improved in overall. It was an excellent season and looking forward to continuing this success next year.

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athletics

athletics WOMEN ’ S VOLLE YBALL

WOMEN ’ S GOLF

MEN ’ S GOLF

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MEN ’ S CROSS COUNTRY Captains Seth Carr, Karios McCune, and Jason Sagun began

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FIELD HOCKE Y

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athletics

THEN

Cheerleading

& NOW Football

Stadium 28

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athletics

THEN

Cheerleading

& NOW Football

Stadium 28

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 Winter 2020

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a dva nce m e n t

Mardi Gras, POWWOW 2020 will be held on April 25th. The concept of a fundraising auction was developed at Walsh Jesuit High School in 1973. As with most private schools, increasing costs made it necessary for the school to seek new sources of revenue in its attempt to defray operating expenses. Walsh Jesuit High School is grateful to all former moderators, chair couples and volunteers. Thanks to their leadership and dedication, over $10 million has been generated for the benefit of Walsh Jesuit High School students.

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Tickets go on sale on Fat Tuesday, February 25th, via the school website, and invitations will be mailed March 2nd. Once again we will be offering early bird pricing. Regular priced tickets purchased between February 25th and March 15th will receive a $25 discount. Quite a spectacular evening is being planned by our co-chairs, Kara Lewis and Maureen Mohlenkamp. We are excited to share that for the 4th year in a row, Marhofer Chevrolet will be sponsoring a stunning, red Corvette Raffle! Tickets will be available for purchase on the school website or at Walsh Jesuit High School. The POWWOW team is always in need of volunteers, auction donations and corporate sponsors. Donations can be purchased via our Amazon Wish List or dropped off at WJ during regular school hours. Visit the school website for volunteer information and sign up links, donation and corporate sponsorship forms and Corvette raffle information.

www.walshjesuit.org/support/powwow Winter 2020

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a dva nce m e n t

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www.walshjesuit.org/support/powwow Winter 2020

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a lum n i

W J HS R ET U R N E E S

Back to the Future “W

alsh Jesuit is special in that we are a very loving and caring community that serves the needs of everyone. Walsh Jesuit truly lives out all the characteristics established by St. Ignatius of Loyola. We are blessed to have students that are tremendous young men and women who come from great families. Serve others as Jesus Christ served all people during his life on earth. He was certainly the model for each of us as to how we should treat all those that we encounter during our lifetime.”

STEV E GR ESCOV ICH ’74 WJ Speech Teacher & Coach

“W

alsh Jesuit is special because of the exceptional number of caring students, faculty and administrators. Be good to people and do the right thing.”

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GER A LD R A R DIN ’72 Dean of Students

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a lum n i

W J HS R ET U R N E E S

Back to the Future “W

STEV E GR ESCOV ICH ’74 WJ Speech Teacher & Coach

“W

alsh Jesuit is special because of the exceptional number of caring students, faculty and administrators. Be good to people and do the right thing.”

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GER A LD R A R DIN ’72 Dean of Students

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DAV ID LEE ’87

a lum n i

WJ English Teacher & Coach

“W

a lsh Jesuit is a place of extraordinary individuals, and

it is special because of the incredible students, faculty, staff, coaches, and parents who create a strong sense of community and who are so committed to the ideals of the “Grad at Grad:” intellectually competent, loving, religious, open to growth, and committed to social justice. When I was a student at Walsh Jesuit, we were introduced to and challenged to become a “man for others,” and this part of the mission of the school has been a central focus of my life. For instance, it instilled in me a belief in social responsibility and serving others. In addition, it has guided my career choices as a teacher and as a coach, and it has taken me around the world as a volunteer with the Peace Corps. Since I started working here, I have been challenged to become a “man for and with others,” and, as a result, I have developed a greater appreciation and understanding of the value of not just serving others but being with others as well and learning to listen and simply be with others.”

K ELLY (STEUR ER) VA NA S ’98 WJ Science Teacher

“W

a lsh Jesuit is special to me because it was a wonderful time in my life. It was a great time for me to mature and learn what life really has to offer. Through a beautiful blend of community, spirituality, education and athletics, I feel that I had everything I needed to become a very successful, confident woman. The atmosphere and energy in the school every day is contagious, and I couldn’t help but love every minute I was here. Being a woman for others means being truly selfless. It is a daily challenge, but it means you think of the other person before yourself. Becoming a mother really helped me understand this idea more than I could have imagined. It is having a true concern for the well-being of another person. I feel like Walsh planted the seed and time and experience allowed that seed to grow and flourish.”

CHR IS STOFFL ’08 WJ Math Teacher & Coach

“W

a lsh Jesuit is filled with people who care about educating the whole person. The care goes beyond report cards when it comes to the student body. Being a Man For and With Others is understanding that life is bigger than just yourself. It doesn’t mean that everyone needs to come back and work at their Alma mater, but that is the path I have followed thus far.”

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Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

DAV ID LEE ’87

a lum n i

WJ English Teacher & Coach

“W

a lsh Jesuit is a place of extraordinary individuals, and

K ELLY (STEUR ER) VA NA S ’98 WJ Science Teacher

“W

CHR IS STOFFL ’08 WJ Math Teacher & Coach

“W

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Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 1999 State Football Championship

STILL SETTING

a lum n i

THE WORLD ON

fire

Celebrating Walsh Jesuit’s Legacy Families, including

WP_Winter_2020.indd 36-37

WJ’s first female alum legacy family

Winter 2020

Chris Chris Connor Connor ’74 ’74 receiving receiving WJ’s WJ’s Distinguished Distinguished Alumnus Award Award 37 3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i

Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 1999 State Football Championship

STILL SETTING

a lum n i

THE WORLD ON

fire

Celebrating Walsh Jesuit’s Legacy Families, including

WP_Winter_2020.indd 36-37

WJ’s first female alum legacy family

Winter 2020

Chris Chris Connor Connor ’74 ’74 receiving receiving WJ’s WJ’s Distinguished Distinguished Alumnus Award Award 37 3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i

“The Jesuits, other than family, have been the most important and incredibly consistent source of support and guidance in my life. I wanted to craft questions for myself and about my identity as a woman who is spiritual and religious...”

H AN N AH COLEY ’1 2

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JESUIT INSPIR ATION

Hannah Coley’s ’12 [below] Jesuit education started at WJ, where she

Following her two years in Belize, Coley moved to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota to become a spiritual formation teacher. As a teacher at Red Cloud Indian School, she engages with kids in a community that has faced many hardships. Hannah Coley continues to examine her role as a Woman For and With Others through prayer, conversations and lessons.

donation procedure at the Gift of Life Marrow Registry, just three days after the Raiders defeated Heidelberg in Tiffin. “Adam always had that very soft, soothing voice,” said Scott Beigie, his former coach at WJ. “That’s quite different than what he was capable of doing on the football field. But his ‘off the field’ demeanor is his true demeanor. He was always a very mature, unassuming kid. I am not surprised by what he has done, but extremely proud of him.”

DOING SOMETHING This past Fall, Janna Hearty ’16 [above] was inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit Honor Society. Hearty continues to live the Jesuit way — in the greater glory of God, as a woman for and with others. Hearty also recently did volunteer work in A Coruña, Spain as an Assistant English Teacher with the organization, Do Something. At Do Something, she teaches English in small groups of Spanish schoolaged. The teaching philosophy at Do Something focuses on playing as a way of learning a foreign language, so Hearty has the opportunity to expose the students to games, music and culture of the United States.

RELENTLESS

Johnni DiJulius ’11 [right] is in his

first season coaching wrestling at Harvard. In high school, he won three OHSAA state titles at Walsh Jesuit. Known for his many quirks, superstitions and rituals, DiJulius most of all is a perfectionist. DiJulius continued on to a stellar collegiate career at Ohio State. Wrestling at 133 pounds, DiJulius held a record of 115-47, including a 30-8 record his junior year. DiJulius played a crucial role in the Buckeyes journey to win not only the Big Ten crown, but the program’s first NCAA title. DiJulius also qualified for the NCAA Championships four times and won the 2013 Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational. After his college, DiJulius was an assistant coach at

Kent State. In one season, DiJulius helped two Golden Flashes qualify for the NCAA meet. He also trained at the Ohio Regional Training Center. From the young wrestlers DiJulius tutors, to the random lady stuck in a snowdrift at night he stops to help, drives to work, and offers to pick up in the morning, to friends who call him at 3am needing someone sober to drive them home. DiJulius’ approach to life is as a relentless man for others.

ANS WERING GOD’ S C ALL

Adam Pastor ’16 [below and right], continues to be an extraordinary Man for Others as a stem cell donor amidst his competitive football season at Mount Union.

“I was going to do this, no matter when it was going to happen,” Pastor said. “I believe that it is our job to take care of all of God’s creations and man is a part of God’s creation and part of this earth. ... It was the righteous thing to do. Football isn’t everything, saving a life is. There are things much bigger than football. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Like I said, I just felt it was the right thing to do.” He successfully lives differing lifestyles. On the field, he competes in a physically violent game that can push emotions to the brink of rage. Off the field, he has a calm and easygoing heart. Alum, Adam Pastor is a firm believer in AMGD, and he lives his life as such.

assistant and retreat minister in Punta Gorda, Belize. Through JVC, she continued to develop her spiritual life through relationships formed with both Jesuits and other people in the communities.

learned the concepts of Ignatian spirituality and Catholic social teachings. Drawn to these concepts, Coley went on to study philosophy at Loyola University Chicago. “The Jesuits, other than family, have been the most important and incredibly consistent source of support and guidance in my life. I wanted to craft questions for myself and about my identity as a woman who is spiritual and religious,” she explained. “Being part of a Jesuit network in a Jesuit university is exactly where I wanted to be.”

“I appreciate the education, the discipline and how it prepared me to move on and to go to college,” Vrabel said in a conference call with Cleveland media. “I am thankful for guys like Gerry Rardin, the football coach there who up until a few years ago, was still coaching. He had the opportunity to come down here and visit with us at Tennessee. I am proud to say that I went to Walsh and proud to say that I was coached by Gerry Rardin.”

WHERE THE JOURNE Y BEGAN While Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel ’93 has spent most of his

time over the past year preparing his team for Sundays, he still reflects back to where his football journey started: Northeast Ohio. Before a standout career at The Ohio State University, the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots and Kansas City Chiefs, he starred at Walsh Jesuit High School.

Coley loved her Jesuit experience, so she decided to volunteer at the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a pastoral

Quite simply, Pastor believed it was the right thing to do, because he was answering God’s call. “There was never any question in my mind,” said Pastor. “Once I heard about the program, I decided it was something I wanted to do.” The “Be a Match” initiative of the Andy Talley Bone Marrow Foundation uses the power of collegiate athletics to recruit stem cell and marrow donors. Pastor, amid a demanding championship season on a No. 2-ranked team, did the stem cell

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3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i

H AN N AH COLEY ’1 2

a lum n i l

JESUIT INSPIR ATION

Hannah Coley’s ’12 [below] Jesuit education started at WJ, where she

RELENTLESS

Johnni DiJulius ’11 [right] is in his

ANS WERING GOD’ S C ALL

Adam Pastor ’16 [below and right], continues to be an extraordinary Man for Others as a stem cell donor amidst his competitive football season at Mount Union.

assistant and retreat minister in Punta Gorda, Belize. Through JVC, she continued to develop her spiritual life through relationships formed with both Jesuits and other people in the communities.

WHERE THE JOURNE Y BEGAN While Tennessee Titans coach Mike Vrabel ’93 has spent most of his

Coley loved her Jesuit experience, so she decided to volunteer at the Jesuit Volunteer Corps as a pastoral

WP_Winter_2020.indd 38-39

3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i A HE ART OF GOLD

Joe Heskett ’97 was an Olympian in

talent, expectations, heart & in spirit. Heskett is a WJ graduate, a 3-time Ohio wrestling state champion, All-American, NCAA Champion, U.S. Champion, coach, teammate, husband and father of three. In 2008, Heskett returned to the wrestling room at Ohio State, five days after the World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan. He was eager to practice after his top five finish for Team USA in the 163 lbs weight class, ensuring the U.S. a spot in the Beijing Olympics. His heart started racing. Heskett fell against a pole in the wrestling room, his chest tightening and energy dissipating. His heart accelerated to 240 beats per minute.

At WJ, friends signed Heskett’s yearbook, “See you in the Olympics,” and WJ coach Bill Barger never doubted it. “He always was one of the best wrestlers in the nation,” Barger said, “and that was always his goal, to win an Olympic gold medal.” At WJ, he dominated, winning three state titles & finishing 41-0 at 152 lbs during his senior season. “You can’t help but love that guy,” Barger said. “He’s a guy you dream of having as a coach. I’m in awe of this kid.” Heskett accepted a scholarship to Iowa State. There he placed at NCAA’s in third, second, second and finished his collegiate career with a victory for the NCAA Championship. In 40

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CHRIS CONNOR ’74

2007, his door opened for Beijing. Heskett was the top wrestler at 163 in the nation… for one year. The diagnosis was arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, an inherited disorder that caused cardiomyopathy, a weakness or abnormality on the right side of Heskett’s heart. When he woke up in the hospital, he said, “I don’t have much time. I’ve got to get out of here and get back to training.” The doctor already knew Heskett would need new dreams, now permanently protected by an internal defibrillator that protruded from Heskett’s chest in a fist-sized lump. It looked like Heskett’s heart wanted to escape from his chest and go to the Olympics on its own. Heshett traveled the world & was the best in the nation, but soon realized his Olympic dreams had to change. Facing this devastating reality, Heskett found he was fortified. “The way I lived my life, I always said, ‘What if you don’t have tomorrow?’ It’s not about a sudden realization, as much as it is that you lived your life like that for a reason. The steps along the way, they helped create Joe Heskett the wrestler; but more important, they created Joe Heskett the human being.” Outwardly, Joe has moved on to reflection, while Tara, his wife said, “I try to think there must be something bigger out there, and that’s God’s plan for him.” Heskett was born with a rare and usually fatal heart condition, as his condition has shown less than a 2% chance of survival. Contrary to the statistics, Joe was blessed with a second chance at life, a chance to embrace each breath granted to him, and a chance to follow his passion to teach, coach, consult, and develop others.

WALSH JESUIT

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS An Incredible Man For & With Others He was done wrestling, but he wasn’t done living. “I am remarkably blessed to be alive,” Heskett said. “This situation, although unfortunate, is the will of our great Lord, and I turn over every fiber of faith to his plan. I don’t have time to ask why and ponder. I will get healthy and I look forward to the next chapter of my life. I do not hang up my shoes easily, but the reality of the situation leaves me with one option and that is to stay optimistic and begin to excel in other areas of my life that I have been extremely blessed to possess.” Now, as his goals have shifted, Heskett is the Chief Visionary Officer of h Leadership. Heskett has spoken to 10’s of thousands of parents and athletes of all ages over the years, but within the past decade his message has shifted. He is unapologetic about challenging individuals, regardless of age, to strive for their personal best. He recognizes that we must make the best out of today and embrace what we have. Not only does he live by this, but he also inspires this mindset in others.

“We live in a world that values convenience, speed, technology, and entertainment thus priorities are often placed on access, notoriety and power. If you have access, use your access to generate knowledge that can be used to inform and help position others for success. If you have notoriety, use your notoriety as a platform to educate and inspire others to be the best version of themselves. Finally, if you have power … Use your power to be a positive agent of change that will contribute to the betterment of society… We all can leave a legacy, specifically with how we interact, involve and encourage others.”

The award was presented by President Karl Ertle, stating, “Chris and his family have made an unwavering commitment to all things maroon and gold, and I cannot imagine a more worthy recipient of this special WJ award. We celebrate and thank him for all he has done for his alma mater and the Greater Cleveland community.” The criteria is multi-faceted and Chris checks every box: he has consistently applied high moral and ethical standards, has achieved post-graduation success in service, professional excellence, leadership in civic work and has promoted intellectual and cultural pursuits. After Walsh Jesuit, Chris graduated from The Ohio State University, where he studied at the Fisher College of Business. Most importantly, Chris is a MAN FOR AND WITH OTHERS - son to Patricia and her late husband, Michael, and the loving husband of Sara. Chris & Sara are parents of three Warriors: Dan ’03, Erin ’04 (on the Board Committee for Student Life) & Kevin ’08. They all excelled at WJ and have remained committed alumni following their football, hockey, swim & lacrosse days. Chris and Sara served as General Chairs for the “Greater Glory of God” campaign and are amongst Walsh Jesuit’s most generous benefactors. Connor Hall was dedicated in 2007 to the Connor Family who profoundly enriched the school’s future and made great things possible. Chris was joined at the award ceremony by his entire family and many friends. “It was a special night for us to be back at our alma mater to celebrate my dad receiving the Distinguished Alumnus award,” Chris’ daughter Erin Connor Reif shared. “It meant a lot to him to be recognized by such an important institution in his life that has helped shape his approach to giving back to others professionally and civically.”

Winter 2020

“When I first met Chris, we scored WJ’s swim meets and cheered on our children,” recounts Patti Clair, Walsh Jesuit’s Vice President of Advancement. “Although I knew Chris was the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, he was so humble, genuine and funny. Chris and Sara were active and devoted parents, searching for the best at the school, not only for their own children, but for the entire WJ community. Chris is truly a man for and with others.” Professionally, Chris is a retired Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of The Sherwin-Williams Company (a multibillion dollar company & global leader in the paint industry). His outstanding leadership of one of Cleveland’s hallmark institutions has garnered him every prestigious award in Northeast Ohio, as he is so incredibly philanthropic. Chris joined Sherwin-Williams in 1983 as Director of Advertising for the Paint Stores Group. Over his 34-year career, he held many increasingly important leadership roles across most of the company’s business functions, was promoted to CEO in 1999 and retired in 2016. A friend, Michael Owen ‘72, on Chris’ accomplishment in leading SherwinWilliams said, “During the great recession of 2008, Chris was able to navigate the challenges and not lay off one person. That speaks to the humanity that is in his heart and why Sherwin-Williams was blessed to have him as its leader.” His many civic and community board engagements have included: the Greater Cleveland Partnership, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Playhouse Square Foundation, University Hospitals Health System, United Way Services and many other religious and civic groups. “Chris and Sara are the most humble and generous people I know,” said Mike Gladstone, guidance counselor at Walsh Jesuit and 30-year friend. “Their generosity to Walsh Jesuit is unparalleled,

but it is their many acts of kindness – the handwritten notes or personal phone calls – that mean so much to everyone. Through their leadership, volunteerism and support, they have changed countless lives at Walsh Jesuit and validated the great work of the Jesuits.” During his commitment to lead many organizations, Chris made it a priority to give back to WJ and served as a sixyear member on the Board and as its Chair in 2000 & 2001. He also continued his dedication to the Jesuit mission by serving the Jesuit Retreat Center, where so many of the WJ students make their Kairos retreat. His love for Walsh Jesuit was especially nurtured by many Jesuits: Fr. Metzger, S.J., Fr. Dickson, S.J. and Fr. Jim King, S.J. Chris often mentions his affection for them, as they challenged his faith to always find the greater glory. Whether it was as he starred in tennis, led student government, or as one of the ‘10 outstanding seniors’ in his class, Chris lived a challenge of St. Ignatius - to show love in deeds, not just words. Fr. King stated, “Chris is such an eloquent speaker, but his actions for the marginalized speak even louder than his words.” Today, Chris is embracing the freedom of retirement and pursuing interesting new pastimes. He is a partner in a certified Black Angus cattle farm in Burton, Ohio, and actively involved with his family’s philanthropic foundation.

Walsh Jesuit salutes Chris Connor ’74, Distinguished Alumnus, and wishes him and his family all the best.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

a lum n i A HE ART OF GOLD

Joe Heskett ’97 was an Olympian in

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CHRIS CONNOR ’74

WALSH JESUIT

Winter 2020

Walsh Jesuit salutes Chris Connor ’74, Distinguished Alumnus, and wishes him and his family all the best.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

c n 71

l o

Dean Giulitto ’71 retired

from Civil Service at Fort Knox KY in July of 2019 as a Supervisory Physician for 10 years. Previously served 31 years on active duty in the Army in the Medical Corps. Currently in the 5th & final year of formation to the Permanent Diaconate in the Archdiocese of Louisville, with an Ordination in August, 2020. Dean credits the WJ community for forming his spiritual foundation of faith journey, culminating with ordination as a Permanent Deacon. In January, he began at Saint Meinrad Seminary & School of Theology for a Masters in Theology, with a certificate in Church history.

at 90

s e

s s

Andy Foreman ’90 retired

from the USMC in 2015. Working at Harrison County Court of Common Pleas as a probation officer in Ohio. Remarried to Christine.

Kristen (Broida) MasonGlasscott ’98 works for American

Health & Wellness Group as VP of Corporate Strategies, in Indianapolis, IN. She has two children: Maya (13) and Gisele (10).

Lash

married 15 years and have three children Jake (12), Maddie (10) and Maya (6). Brian works at Traffic Control Products as a Territory Manager, and Jennifer is a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. They regularly attend WJ Alumni Cross Country events, because that’s how they met. All three kids are runners. Jake & Maddie both qualified for the National Youth Cross Country Champs! Reside in Akron. (LEFT)

Glen Witsaman ’81 has lived in Medina, Ohio for the past 19 years, and raised a family. Former Vice President of AVI Foodsystems. Now the Director of Business Development for Healthcare at the Unidine Company.

Tony Sinito ’89 is employed at US Ultrasound as a National Account Manager. Anthony (17), Sophia (14) Biochemistry graduate, spent seven years in formulation R&D, then transitioned into pharmaceutical and capital equipment sales. 42

WP_Winter_2020.indd 42-43

Rick Koplin ’01 is married to Mollie Koplin. They have a twoyear-old son, Brodie.

Robert Willoughby ’90 married in

August, 2018. He received a Masters in Clinical Psychology from the Michigan School of Professional Psychology, July 2016 and Retired from 15 years as a paramedic in Detroit, March 2017. Robert is currently pursuing a Psy. D. in Clinical Psychology at Michigan School of Psychology. He is expecting to graduate in July 2021. His dissertation topic: The Lived Experience of Private Ambulance Paramedics and EMT’s.

husband, Carlo, welcomed Eleanor Pearl Licata on July 17, 2019. (BELOW)

is a Senior Mananger at Grant Thornton.

Jennifer (Beatty) Horvasten ’05 and her husband welcomed their

first child, a son, Shane “SJ” Jackson Horvasten, on March 3, 2019.

Lauren

(Spalding)

Walter

’04

graduated from Youngstown State, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine & completed her residency in Internal Medicine at Summa Akron Hospital. She is working with IM residency program at University Hospitals. Married Jim Walter in 2015 at St. John’s Cathedral. Reside in Solon & welcomed twin baby girls, Madison & Mackenzie, in Nov. 2018. (ABOVE)

Augie Manadan ’90 is Chairman

of rheumatology at Cook County hospital and a professor of medicine. Also, directs rheumatology training program at Rush Medical College. He has three children: Jay, Neil & Leena.

Jessica (Ciraldo) Licata ’06 and her

John O’Brien ’04

Brian Diaz ’98 & Jennifer (Jackoboice) Diaz ’99 have been

’79

retired and moved from Minnesota to Florida. 5 children and 14 grandchildren.

is attending Columbia University as a Doctoral Student.

Jim

Jennifer (Komos) Hartmann ’04

Will Riley ’05 had his first daughter, Lyla, in August with his wife Kathleen.

Doug Snider ’05 has a new daughter,

Winny. His other daughter, Celia, is three years old.

Caitlin Clair ’06 is a Franchise Business Consultant at Wahlburgers. Katie (Wojno) Demarchi ’06 & Matt Demarchi ’06 were married

Matt Riley ’03 moved back to Bath, Ohio and had his second daughter, Rosalee, in June with his wife Mallory. His first daughter, Sedona, just turned two.

this past summer. Included in their wedding were: from the left...

Bethany (Rice) Speck, ’06, Dan Wojno ’04, Julianne (Wojno) Ohlemacher ’09, Jeff Demarchi ’08, Katie and Matt, Lauren Demarchi ’16, Emily (Shand) McGroarty ’06 and John McGroarty ’06. (ABOVE)

Victoria (Ciraldo) Coli ’03 and her husband, Joseph welcomed Thomas Ignatius Coli on May 29, 2019. Joseph was welcomed home by a big sister and brother. (RIGHT)

A.J. Spalding ’06 graduated from John Carroll with a degree in Accounting and his MBA. He married his college sweetheart, Haley, in 2014 in Cleveland, OH. He is currently working for Ernst and Young. They have two girls, Bella Rose and Sophia Ann, who was born in September. They reside in Peninsula, OH. (RIGHT)

Emily (Baab) Fisher ’04 is married to Kenny Fisher. They have a son, Theodore. Emiily works at the University of Mount Union as Asst. AD & Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach. Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

c n 71

l o

Dean Giulitto ’71 retired

at 90

s e

s s

Andy Foreman ’90 retired

from the USMC in 2015. Working at Harrison County Court of Common Pleas as a probation officer in Ohio. Remarried to Christine.

Kristen (Broida) MasonGlasscott ’98 works for American

Health & Wellness Group as VP of Corporate Strategies, in Indianapolis, IN. She has two children: Maya (13) and Gisele (10).

Lash

WP_Winter_2020.indd 42-43

Rick Koplin ’01 is married to Mollie Koplin. They have a twoyear-old son, Brodie.

Robert Willoughby ’90 married in

husband, Carlo, welcomed Eleanor Pearl Licata on July 17, 2019. (BELOW)

is a Senior Mananger at Grant Thornton.

Jennifer (Beatty) Horvasten ’05 and her husband welcomed their

first child, a son, Shane “SJ” Jackson Horvasten, on March 3, 2019.

Lauren

(Spalding)

Walter

’04

Augie Manadan ’90 is Chairman

of rheumatology at Cook County hospital and a professor of medicine. Also, directs rheumatology training program at Rush Medical College. He has three children: Jay, Neil & Leena.

Jessica (Ciraldo) Licata ’06 and her

John O’Brien ’04

Brian Diaz ’98 & Jennifer (Jackoboice) Diaz ’99 have been

’79

retired and moved from Minnesota to Florida. 5 children and 14 grandchildren.

is attending Columbia University as a Doctoral Student.

Jim

Jennifer (Komos) Hartmann ’04

Will Riley ’05 had his first daughter, Lyla, in August with his wife Kathleen.

Doug Snider ’05 has a new daughter,

Winny. His other daughter, Celia, is three years old.

Caitlin Clair ’06 is a Franchise Business Consultant at Wahlburgers. Katie (Wojno) Demarchi ’06 & Matt Demarchi ’06 were married

Matt Riley ’03 moved back to Bath, Ohio and had his second daughter, Rosalee, in June with his wife Mallory. His first daughter, Sedona, just turned two.

this past summer. Included in their wedding were: from the left...

Victoria (Ciraldo) Coli ’03 and her husband, Joseph welcomed Thomas Ignatius Coli on May 29, 2019. Joseph was welcomed home by a big sister and brother. (RIGHT)

Emily (Baab) Fisher ’04 is married to Kenny Fisher. They have a son, Theodore. Emiily works at the University of Mount Union as Asst. AD & Head Women’s Lacrosse Coach. Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

cl a ss no tes

Lisa (Floccari) Peterson ’07

married Brian P. Peterson in 2017. Their first child, Audrey Rose Peterson, was born in December 2017.

Darcy (Riley) Alexander ’07 had

her first daughter, Riley, in November with husband and WJ Head Football Coach, Nick Alexander.

Sean Drennan ’08 moved to

Louisiana in 2009, started a new job in August 2019 and was engaged last October.

Anna Linsley ’08 and husband Corey welcomed a son, Seamus, last year.

cl a ss no tes

Sean Wilson ’08 & Samantha (Lowe) Wilson ’09 were married in

August 2014.

Jordan (Finch) Berry ’09 & Ryan Berry ’10 met while attending

Walsh Jesuit. Jordan, a senior, and Ryan, a junior, began “talking” and some would consider “dating.” Due to the fact that Jordan would be attending college in the fall, they never officially considered dating. Although they went their separate ways, their paths crossed nearly seven years later. Ryan relocated to Texas for work in 2016, and while back in town for his sister’s wedding, was driving by Walsh Jesuit and sent a snapchat to Jordan out of the blue...which led to a future dinner. The rest is history. Jordan often visited Ryan in Texas, until Ryan moved back home in February of 2018. Jordan and

Caroline (Stunek) Dahlstrom ’09

earned a PhD in School Psychology from The Ohio State. She is married to Chris and works with Westerville City Schools as a school psychologist.

Sophie Grodsinsky ’09 has lived across the country & loves WJ. Works as Senior Project Engineer for Fortis Construction. Resides in New Mexico. Keith Johnson ’09 has been to more than 35 countries, worked 3.5 years in management consulting in New York, and is interested in moving back to LA after graduate school (UChicago). Allison Newberg ’09 graduated Ohio State with a degree in Human Development & Family Science. After years of interning, now a National Park Service Park Ranger. Also a YCC camp director in the summer and outdoor education ranger in Spring/Fall. Stephen Spalding ’09 graduated from Baldwin Wallace with a degree in Accounting and his MBA. He then graduated from Akron Law School. He is currently working at Ernst and Young in the tax department. He has a home in Peninsula, OH and is happily dating his girlfriend, Katie Post. (BELOW)

Melissa Platko ’10 received a Master of Public Health degree from Kent State University in 2016 and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2019. She was certified as a PA in August 2019 and married September 2019. Olivia (Piermarini) Choujaa ’10 & Nidal Choujaa ’10 married at

Immaculate Heart of Mary in July, 2018. With a bridal party of fellow WJ Classmates. Bridesmaids: Victoria

Piermarini ’09, Alissarh Choujaa ’14, Angela Jozsa ’10, Renae Brown ’10, Rachel Scarponi ’10, Tina Collins ’10. Groomsmen: Emidio Piermarini ’07, Alex Crissey ’10. (ABOVE)

Karli Kennedy ’12 took a position at Cardinal Health in Dublin, Ohio as Project Manager and moved to Columbus. Darby Ratliff ’12 is registrar at Villa Maria College in Buffalo, New York.

Noah Poinar ’08 & Emily (Zanin) Poinar ’09 were married on June 22,

2019 in Cuyahoga Falls. Noah works as a beer and wine sales representative, and Emily works as a nurse anesthetist at Akron Children’s Hospital. (ABOVE)

WP_Winter_2020.indd 44-45

Ryan have since adopted the cutest puppy “Conway” (named after the football stadium at Walsh Jesuit). Ryan and Jordan were married last October.

Lauren (Tullis) Kay ’13 & Jordan Kay ’13 both graduated

from Miami University. Lauren is a Collections Associate at Google & Jordan is an Account Coordinator at Allied Global Marketing. They married in August, 2019 and live in Chicago with puppy, Marvel. (RIGHT)

Winter 2020

Danielle Margheret ’13 graduated

from the University of Notre Dame as a student-athlete with a double major in Marketing & Visual Communications design. She worked in marketing & as a fitness coach in Chicago for 3 years before returning to Cleveland. Now, she is Walsh Jesuit’s Director of Marketing & Communications.

Tracie Varvir ’13

is Marketing Coordinator at VividFront.

Izzy Saridakis ’16 qualified for DIII National Championship in the Pole Vault as a member of Emory University’s Women’s Track and Field. Izzy is a junior majoring in Applied Math and Statistics and has been recently accepted to Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health 4/1 program to receive her MSPH in Biostatistics. Izzy picked up pole vaulting while a member of WJ’s track and field team.

Julia Mullins ’17 is attending

Hillsdale College.

Heidi Lewis ’15 is a Business

Gabi Costantini ’18 crowned USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur National Champion on July 10, 2019.

Alexandra Wiskes ’15 graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. She works at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center as a Registered Nurse.

Richie & Andrew Kurlich ’18

Intelligence Analyst at DSW/Designer Shoe Warehouse in Columbus, Ohio.

continue athletic accompishments. Richie, who was a state meet finalist for the Warriors Swim Team, competed in the NCAA Division III National Championship Meet in Greensboro, North Carolina. The Denison Big Red won the National Championship. Richie was a finalist in three events, swimming to a 6th place finish in the 200 yard breaststroke, 8th place in the 200 yard butterfly, and 13th place in the 200 yard individual medley. As a result of his performance at the National Championships, Richie earned three NCAA AllAmerican designations for the 2018-2019 season. Andrew, also a state finalist for the Warriors swimming team, also swims for the Denison Big Red.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

cl a ss no tes

Lisa (Floccari) Peterson ’07

married Brian P. Peterson in 2017. Their first child, Audrey Rose Peterson, was born in December 2017.

Darcy (Riley) Alexander ’07 had

her first daughter, Riley, in November with husband and WJ Head Football Coach, Nick Alexander.

Sean Drennan ’08 moved to

Louisiana in 2009, started a new job in August 2019 and was engaged last October.

Anna Linsley ’08 and husband Corey welcomed a son, Seamus, last year.

cl a ss no tes

Sean Wilson ’08 & Samantha (Lowe) Wilson ’09 were married in

August 2014.

Jordan (Finch) Berry ’09 & Ryan Berry ’10 met while attending

Caroline (Stunek) Dahlstrom ’09

earned a PhD in School Psychology from The Ohio State. She is married to Chris and works with Westerville City Schools as a school psychologist.

Immaculate Heart of Mary in July, 2018. With a bridal party of fellow WJ Classmates. Bridesmaids: Victoria

Piermarini ’09, Alissarh Choujaa ’14, Angela Jozsa ’10, Renae Brown ’10, Rachel Scarponi ’10, Tina Collins ’10. Groomsmen: Emidio Piermarini ’07, Alex Crissey ’10. (ABOVE)

Karli Kennedy ’12 took a position at Cardinal Health in Dublin, Ohio as Project Manager and moved to Columbus. Darby Ratliff ’12 is registrar at Villa Maria College in Buffalo, New York.

Noah Poinar ’08 & Emily (Zanin) Poinar ’09 were married on June 22,

2019 in Cuyahoga Falls. Noah works as a beer and wine sales representative, and Emily works as a nurse anesthetist at Akron Children’s Hospital. (ABOVE)

WP_Winter_2020.indd 44-45

Ryan have since adopted the cutest puppy “Conway” (named after the football stadium at Walsh Jesuit). Ryan and Jordan were married last October.

Lauren (Tullis) Kay ’13 & Jordan Kay ’13 both graduated

Winter 2020

Danielle Margheret ’13 graduated

Tracie Varvir ’13

is Marketing Coordinator at VividFront.

Julia Mullins ’17 is attending

Hillsdale College.

Heidi Lewis ’15 is a Business

Gabi Costantini ’18 crowned USEF Saddle Seat Adult Amateur National Champion on July 10, 2019.

Alexandra Wiskes ’15 graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. She works at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center as a Registered Nurse.

Richie & Andrew Kurlich ’18

Intelligence Analyst at DSW/Designer Shoe Warehouse in Columbus, Ohio.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

in memor i am

Those listed below have passed away since July 15, 2019, or we have become aware of their passing since the last issue of Warrior Paths. as of

January 25, 2020

Rev. Edward J. Mattimoe, S.J. † WJ Principal 1966-76

Anna Marie Teodosio † mother of Tom Teodosio

Kevin May † father of Chelsea (May) Collins ’01 & Kevin

’75, Alex Teodosio ’87 & Carol (Teodosio) Peter

May, Jr. ’07

Donald E. McDonald † father of Chip McDonald ’78; grandfather of Brendan McDonald ’07 &

REV. EDWARD J. MATTIMOE, S.J.

Eleanor K. Abraham † mother of Charles Abraham ’75, grandmother of Megan Abraham ’07, Edward Abraham ’08 & Leslie (Abraham) Becker ’10

Ronald A. Gander † former WJHS tennis coach James Paul Haasz † father of Kevin ’94

(former WJHS staff); grandmother of Christine Klaben ’97, Chris Teodosio ’05 & Andrea Teodosio ’06 †

Connor McDonald ’09

William Q. Victor † father of Samuel Victor ’05

Louis Michael Mifsud † Alumnus class of 1997

Karen Patricia Volpe † wife of Mark Volpe ’77;

Grace Mondi-Giorgio † mother of Gary Giorgio ’75 Donald L. Muntz, Sr. † father of Dolly Gingo (WJHS

sister-in-law of David Volpe ’73 & Paul Volpe ’83; aunt of Anthony Volpe ’17, Matthew Volpe ’19, Sean Coyne ’09, Katie Coyne ’10 & Timothy Coyne ’12

Cynthia Renee (Yount) Harry † mother of McKenzie

staff); father-in-law of Mike Gingo ’70; grandfather

Harry ’11 & sister-in-law of Jim ’70

of Nick Gingo ’00, Anthony Gingo ’02, Brandon Tripp

Rita M. Heller † mother of Thomas Heller ’73;

’06, Brittany (Tripp) Mancini ’07 & Jenna Gingo ’12

Fr. John V. White, S.J. † former WJHS faculty

grandmother of Alyssa ’15

Elaine Novak † grandmother of Sarah Boodjeh ’16 &

Joy E. Wright † mother of Lillian Wright ’16

Marilyn Houlahan † grandmother of Samuel

Jacob Boodjeh ’19

Bonsignore ’12 & Nicholas Bonsignore ’14

Mary L. Bradley † grandmother of Ethan Shieve ’17

Martha J. Pawlowski † grandmother of Joe

Mary M. Kase † mother of Rich Kase ’70; mother-in-

Pawlowski ’09

Kristina “Tina” Buehrle † wife of Edward Buehrle

law of Cathy Kase (WJHS staff); grandmother of Courtney

Rosina Pugliese † grandmother of Joseph Pugliese ’00,

Eileen M. Anfang † mother of Christopher Anfang ’77 & John Anfang ’81

John M. Ashworth † father of John Ashworth, Jr. ’02 Nicholina Burgio † mother of Cynthia Burgio (WJHS Director of College Guidance)

’83; mother of Victor Buehrle ’14, Maxwell Buehrle ’20 & Russell Buehrle ’22

Marianne T. Calhoun † mother of Vern T. Calhoun ’78, Robert W. Calhoun ’82 and William Calhoun † ’80

(Kase) Steere ’02

Elizabeth Pugliese ’03, Anna Pugliese ’06, Grace

Alice Kilbane † grandmother of Dan Bizga (WJHS

Pugliese ’08 & Vincent Pugliese ’11

faculty)

Kevin Quinn † Alumnus class of 1975; brother of Arthur

Kenneth James Krismanth † father of Kate Krismanth

Quinn ’71 & Gerald Quinn ’79; brother-in-law Mike

’21 & Maddie Krismanth ’23

Guenther ’70 & Patrick Guenther ’71

Roseanne (Raub) Lammers † mother of William

Lawrence Arthur Riley † Alumnus class of 1971

Gary Conway † father of Christian E. Conway ’90

Lammers ’78 & John Lammers ’86

Geraldine Rote † mother of Frank Rote ’72,

Michael T. Downey † father of Shane M. Downey ’15

Mary Kay Luby † mother of Charles Luby ’71, James

Michael Rote ’76, Paul Rote ’78 & John Rote ’84

D. Michael Friess † father of Sarah (Friess)

Luby ’73, Thomas Luby ’74, Robert Luby ’77, Philip Luby

Mary Santon † grandmother of Christian

’80, Paul Luby ’82, Timothy Luby ’82, Richard Luby ’85

McShannic ’15, Joseph McShannic ’15, Molly

& Michael Luby ’86; grandmother of Taylor R. Luby ’05,

McShannic ’15 & Michael McShannic ’20

Carlin T. Luby ’06, Callaghan M. Luby ’08, Alexandra O.

Patricia Anne Stockinger † mother of Mark

Robert L. Capanna † grandfather of Robert Capanna ’97

Rinehart ’06

Mary Elizabeth Bachmann Frisbie † sister of Paul Bachmann ’85; aunt of Ben Bachmann ’95 & Dave Bachmann ’98 46

WP_Winter_2020.indd 46-47

Luby ’10, Justin A. Luby ’15 & Brian J. Luby ’18

Andrew Washlock, III † Alumnus class of 1988

FR. JOHN V. WHITE, S.J.

Stockinger ’89 Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

in memor i am

Those listed below have passed away since July 15, 2019, or we have become aware of their passing since the last issue of Warrior Paths. as of

January 25, 2020

Rev. Edward J. Mattimoe, S.J. † WJ Principal 1966-76

Anna Marie Teodosio † mother of Tom Teodosio

Kevin May † father of Chelsea (May) Collins ’01 & Kevin

’75, Alex Teodosio ’87 & Carol (Teodosio) Peter

May, Jr. ’07

Donald E. McDonald † father of Chip McDonald ’78; grandfather of Brendan McDonald ’07 &

REV. EDWARD J. MATTIMOE, S.J.

Eleanor K. Abraham † mother of Charles Abraham ’75, grandmother of Megan Abraham ’07, Edward Abraham ’08 & Leslie (Abraham) Becker ’10

Ronald A. Gander † former WJHS tennis coach James Paul Haasz † father of Kevin ’94

(former WJHS staff); grandmother of Christine Klaben ’97, Chris Teodosio ’05 & Andrea Teodosio ’06 †

Connor McDonald ’09

William Q. Victor † father of Samuel Victor ’05

Louis Michael Mifsud † Alumnus class of 1997

Karen Patricia Volpe † wife of Mark Volpe ’77;

Grace Mondi-Giorgio † mother of Gary Giorgio ’75 Donald L. Muntz, Sr. † father of Dolly Gingo (WJHS

sister-in-law of David Volpe ’73 & Paul Volpe ’83; aunt of Anthony Volpe ’17, Matthew Volpe ’19, Sean Coyne ’09, Katie Coyne ’10 & Timothy Coyne ’12

Cynthia Renee (Yount) Harry † mother of McKenzie

staff); father-in-law of Mike Gingo ’70; grandfather

Harry ’11 & sister-in-law of Jim ’70

of Nick Gingo ’00, Anthony Gingo ’02, Brandon Tripp

Rita M. Heller † mother of Thomas Heller ’73;

’06, Brittany (Tripp) Mancini ’07 & Jenna Gingo ’12

Fr. John V. White, S.J. † former WJHS faculty

grandmother of Alyssa ’15

Elaine Novak † grandmother of Sarah Boodjeh ’16 &

Joy E. Wright † mother of Lillian Wright ’16

Marilyn Houlahan † grandmother of Samuel

Jacob Boodjeh ’19

Bonsignore ’12 & Nicholas Bonsignore ’14

Mary L. Bradley † grandmother of Ethan Shieve ’17

Martha J. Pawlowski † grandmother of Joe

Mary M. Kase † mother of Rich Kase ’70; mother-in-

Pawlowski ’09

Kristina “Tina” Buehrle † wife of Edward Buehrle

law of Cathy Kase (WJHS staff); grandmother of Courtney

Rosina Pugliese † grandmother of Joseph Pugliese ’00,

Eileen M. Anfang † mother of Christopher Anfang ’77 & John Anfang ’81

John M. Ashworth † father of John Ashworth, Jr. ’02 Nicholina Burgio † mother of Cynthia Burgio (WJHS Director of College Guidance)

’83; mother of Victor Buehrle ’14, Maxwell Buehrle ’20 & Russell Buehrle ’22

Marianne T. Calhoun † mother of Vern T. Calhoun ’78, Robert W. Calhoun ’82 and William Calhoun † ’80

(Kase) Steere ’02

Elizabeth Pugliese ’03, Anna Pugliese ’06, Grace

Alice Kilbane † grandmother of Dan Bizga (WJHS

Pugliese ’08 & Vincent Pugliese ’11

faculty)

Kevin Quinn † Alumnus class of 1975; brother of Arthur

Kenneth James Krismanth † father of Kate Krismanth

Quinn ’71 & Gerald Quinn ’79; brother-in-law Mike

’21 & Maddie Krismanth ’23

Guenther ’70 & Patrick Guenther ’71

Roseanne (Raub) Lammers † mother of William

Lawrence Arthur Riley † Alumnus class of 1971

Gary Conway † father of Christian E. Conway ’90

Lammers ’78 & John Lammers ’86

Geraldine Rote † mother of Frank Rote ’72,

Michael T. Downey † father of Shane M. Downey ’15

Mary Kay Luby † mother of Charles Luby ’71, James

Michael Rote ’76, Paul Rote ’78 & John Rote ’84

D. Michael Friess † father of Sarah (Friess)

Luby ’73, Thomas Luby ’74, Robert Luby ’77, Philip Luby

Mary Santon † grandmother of Christian

’80, Paul Luby ’82, Timothy Luby ’82, Richard Luby ’85

McShannic ’15, Joseph McShannic ’15, Molly

& Michael Luby ’86; grandmother of Taylor R. Luby ’05,

McShannic ’15 & Michael McShannic ’20

Carlin T. Luby ’06, Callaghan M. Luby ’08, Alexandra O.

Patricia Anne Stockinger † mother of Mark

Robert L. Capanna † grandfather of Robert Capanna ’97

Rinehart ’06

Mary Elizabeth Bachmann Frisbie † sister of Paul Bachmann ’85; aunt of Ben Bachmann ’95 & Dave Bachmann ’98 46

WP_Winter_2020.indd 46-47

Luby ’10, Justin A. Luby ’15 & Brian J. Luby ’18

Andrew Washlock, III † Alumnus class of 1988

FR. JOHN V. WHITE, S.J.

Stockinger ’89 Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

in m e mor i a m

Andy Truax

r e m e m ber ing a quiet hero

by Lisa Massello Walsh Jesuit Science Teacher & Vice President of Mission & Identit y

ndy Truax did not measure success the most people do. He walked away from a promising career managing multimillion dollar environmental impact projects in order to teach high school students.

ith that type of administrative talent, his only aspiration was to reach and teach young people: in the classroom or the Boy Scout troop; on the rugby field or with the drum line; at Camp Christopher or the woods at Hiram College’s Field Station; on Kairos, immersion trips, or Labre Ministry.

e designed lessons, lab activities and field trips to maximize students’ understanding of what it really meant to do science and to be a scientist... inquire, discover, tinker, and ultimately learn as much from what did not work as from what worked. He tried to set up every single student for success, and he savored the accomplishments of all his students.

t can be hard for students to attend a school where their father or mother (or both) teach. Andy navigated this incredibly for his son Drew ’14 and his daughter Brenna ’16 . Andy was humble about their respective achievements. But, there was never a doubt about his pride and belief in them, his support of them and his love for them.

he same and more were true for Andy with respect to the love of his life – his wife and best friend,

Mrs. Mary Truax.

WP_Winter_2020.indd 48-49

usband, father, son, brother, teacher, mentor, coach, Star Wars fan extraordinair, advisor, colleague, grant writer, potter, student, immersion trip advisor, athlete, musician, Kairos leader, Labre volunteer, comedian, project manager, geologist, animal lover, recycler, environmental scientist, service leader, faith-filled man. Ultimately, Andy was a true...

Man For and With Others.

f you read the loving obituary tribute, written by his wife Mary and his children Drew and Brenna, you gained a deeper understanding of Andy. If you had the privilege of being at one of the Masses that was celebrated on Andy’s behalf, or the honor of talking with any of his family or the countless people whose lives he touched, you gained insight into the amazing man.

et, most of what Andy did was behind the scenes. His simple acts of profound kindness, service and support. In his humility, he would keep them to himself, but they are an important part of his legacy. Here is a small sampling: • Andy kept cans of soup and jars of peanut butter in the bottom drawer of his office’s filing cabinet for students who might go hungry.

Winter 2020

• Andy stepped out of serving as an adult member of Kairos teams while Drew and Brenna were students so that they would be free to experience their own unique Kairos retreat. • Andy came in at night and on weekends to empty recycling bins and pull recyclables out of the trash so that Walsh Jesuit was a “green” high school. • Andy ‘mourned’ when he ‘lost’ a student who switched to another biology teacher. Unbeknownst to her, he quietly kept tabs on her to ensure that she was succeeding. • Andy wept when he asked another teacher what he could do for a biology student who arrived at Walsh Jesuit with a recent cancer diagnosis. • Andy gave up his lunchtime every day for a semester while mentoring an international student who had difficulty adjusting to life and learning in America. • Andy juggled all his roles with his number one role of family man. This included devoted care for his mother in Cincinnati.

fter a vacation at Hocking Hills State Park several years ago, I returned to Walsh Jesuit, excited to share with Andy a quote I had ‘discovered’ on a wooden plaque in a tourist shop. I read it to Andy:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, & loudly proclaiming, “Wow! What a Ride!”

here was no attribution or photograph. But Andy knew that Hunter S. Thompson was a biker guy and just the person to make such a statement. With a glimmer in his eye and a chuckle, Andy suggested that I be careful where, and when I used that quote. I knew the quote would resonate with Andy, but I did not realize how soon his amazing ride would be coming to an end.

n his inimitable way each and every day, Andy was demonstrating St. Ignatius’ Prayer for Generosity. The number of Andy’s days was far too small. I am certain Andy Truax trekked into heaven in his hiking gear, and God greeted Andy with a bear hug and the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” 49

3/5/20 1:57 PM

in m e mor i a m

Andy Truax

r e m e m ber ing a quiet hero

by Lisa Massello Walsh Jesuit Science Teacher & Vice President of Mission & Identit y

ndy Truax did not measure success the most people do. He walked away from a promising career managing multimillion dollar environmental impact projects in order to teach high school students.

he same and more were true for Andy with respect to the love of his life – his wife and best friend,

Mrs. Mary Truax.

WP_Winter_2020.indd 48-49

Man For and With Others.

Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:57 PM

r e w in d

Have you thought about supporting Walsh Jesuit through a bequest of life insurance?

would you like to contribute to or advertise in WARRIOR PATHS?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS write for

Warrior Paths !

Articles, Photography, Feature Articles (Person), Sponsored Articles, Advertisements, Quotes, etc. If you would like to contribute to the next edition of Warrior Paths, please contact Danielle Margheret ‘13 at MargheretD@WalshJesuit.org 50

WP_Winter_2020.indd 50-51

If you are like most individuals, you own life insurance. However, as time goes on, your life insurance policy may no longer be needed for its original purpose. If you wish to support Walsh Jesuit, there are a number of charitable life insurance options to consider. INSURANCE GIFT BENEFITS

The benefit of making a charitable gift of life insurance is a current charitable income tax deduction with tax savings that may be enjoyed for up to six years. You also have the satisfaction of knowing that your policy proceeds are going to benefit Walsh Jesuit students.

MAKING A GIFT OF LIFE INSURANCE

It’s easy to make a gift of a life insurance policy. Simply contact your insurance company & fill out the change of ownership form, designating our organization as the new owner. If we hold on to the policy, you may make contributions each year to cover the policy premiums. You will be entitled to an additional charitable income tax deduction for each of these gifts.

OPTIONS FOR GIFTS OF INSURANCE: Insurance for a Gift Annuity Insurance Unitrust Bequest of Insurance

To learn more, please call Patti Clair at 330 929 4205 x 166.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

r e w in d

Have you thought about supporting Walsh Jesuit through a bequest of life insurance?

would you like to contribute to or advertise in WARRIOR PATHS?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS write for

Warrior Paths !

WP_Winter_2020.indd 50-51

MAKING A GIFT OF LIFE INSURANCE

OPTIONS FOR GIFTS OF INSURANCE: Insurance for a Gift Annuity Insurance Unitrust Bequest of Insurance

To learn more, please call Patti Clair at 330 929 4205 x 166.

3/5/20 1:57 PM

MANRESA AWARDS / MIS SION WORK / MR . TRUA X

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID Cuyahoga Falls, OH Permit No. 309

THEN

& NOW FOLLOW & LIKE US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! : @walshjesuithighschool

: @walshjesuit

walshjesuit .org 4550 Wyoga Lake Road Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44224-1084 330.929.4205 800.686.4 694

WP_Winter_2020.indd 1-2

Connecting the Walsh Jesuit community worldwide.

•

AMDG

•

Winter 2020

3/5/20 1:56 PM

Warrior Paths - Winter 2020

Articles inside

alumni

in memoriam

class notes

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