the
beacon BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Class of 2015
Congratulations, Class of 2015
SAVE THE DATE
SAVE THE DATE
2016 BUFFALO BALL SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2016
5K FAMILY FUN RUN AND WALK
MARRIOTT DENVER TECH CENTER
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2015
Celebrating the Legacy of Bishop Joseph P. Machebeuf
A Look Inside… A Look Ahead… AUGUST
14-16 17 24
Campus Ministry Retreat Registration (12:00 – 6:00 PM) First Official Day of Sports Practice First Day of School (Mass Day Schedule)
MARCH FOR LIFE
SEPTEMBER
3 7 23-27
All School Mass Back to School Night (6:00- 7:30 PM) No School (Labor Day) World Family Day Pilgrimage to Philadelphia
Principal Mr. Marc Nestorick, M. Ed. Assistant Principal - Dean of Students
OCTOBER
2
Powder Puff Game (4:00 PM) Homecoming Tail Gate Party (5:00 PM)
3 17 18-19 28 29-30
Homecoming Football Game (7:00 PM) Homecoming Dance (8:00 – 11:00 PM) 5K Family Fun Run and Walk Sophomore Retreat ITBS Testing (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) Parent Conferences (No School)
SCENE AT MACHEBEUF
Assistant Principal - Dean of Academics Mrs. Tuyet Nguyen, M. Ed.
2015 GRADUATES
machebeuf.org
Mr. Mike Augustine, M. Ed.
458 Uinta Way Denver, CO 80230
303.344.0082 www.machebeuf.org
Non-Discrimination Statement: The Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Denver, under the jurisdiction of the Archbishop, and at the discretion of the Secretary for Catholic Schools, state that all of their Catholic schools admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at schools. Futhermore, Archdiocesan schools admit handicapped students in accord with Archdiocesan Policy No. 2000 concerning student admission. These schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, age, handicap, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of their educational policies, employment practices, scholarship and loan programs or athletic or other school administered programs.
From the
Principal Dear Bishop Machebeuf High School Community: It is hard to believe we are coming to the end of the school year. It has been an exciting first year here for me – a year full of many blessings: n We have increased our enrollment. We continue to see positive trends to sustain and improve that growth into the future. n We are projecting a decrease in faculty and staff turnover. n We have numerous students who were brought into the Church and/or received the sacraments of initiation. n We sent our seniors off to colleges and universities around the country, as well as into the military and religious life. We have a lot to be proud of! We have an amazing student population, dedicated faculty and staff, and a supportive community. Bishop Machebeuf High School is truly a principal’s dream. Not only does it give me great joy to look upon the past, but I am also very excited about our future. I look forward to: n This summer, we will have much needed roof repairs completed. We will also have work done in the gymnasium that includes purchasing new weight equipment, painting the gym, and resurfacing the floor. n We will be implementing a modified block schedule which will allow students to receive additional help and support for their learning. n Our bus route will start in August and provide greater access to our school from the southern areas. Bishop Machebeuf High School has been a true gift to me and my family! I thank everyone for making this such a wonderful year. Have a great and safe summer. Sincerely, Marc Nestorick Principal
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
MY EXPERIENCE: 2015 MARCH FOR LIFE Written by Nicole Torres, Class of 2017
This year, I joined many other Bishop Machebeuf students, ranging from freshmen to seniors, in flying to Washington, D.C. Before and after the march, we had the opportunity to explore Washington and visit so many places including: the Lincoln Memorial, Holocaust Museum, Mass at the Basilica, the Capitol and much more! This was an amazing trip, and we were all able to be a part of something so powerful! On the day of the march, we were blessed with beautiful weather and were able to join a massive group of over half a million people and peacefully march in front of the Supreme Court for the end to abortion. It was truly a wonderful experience. The air was filled with enthusiasm and love, and everyone was carrying some sort of sign. Some people around us were chanting “Hey hey, ho ho, Roe v. Wade has got to go!” Catchy, huh? Others silently marched alongside and prayed. The march was diverse, too. We saw young children, a lot of teens, adults, nuns, people from Europe, and even Machebeuf alumni! It was truly astounding! As I looked out upon the hundreds of thousands that were also marching alongside me, I reflected on the reasons as to why I also march. We march because we understand how important and precious the gift of life truly is. It was a very moving and beautiful experience, and I am very thankful to have had this opportunity through the school. The March for Life helped me feel more grateful for the Church, and how the dignity of every human being, from conception to natural death, is respected and upheld to the highest degree in our Catholic faith. This feeling was even
more intensified by our tour of the magnificent National Basilica, ginormous yet jam-packed on all of the multiple occasions we were there. The Basilica displays the rich, cultural heritage that the community of believers shares through a common faith, with statues depicting Our Lady from China to Ireland, and everywhere in between. As my classmate, Mary Dillon, said, “The March for Life is an incredible experience, a profound opportunity to see so many people gathered for the same cause. I was deeply moved by the passion that everyone there felt about the sanctity of human life, and I felt like I was part of a bigger movement to catalyze change, which encouraged me for the future of the pro-life movement. I could not help being moved to tears for the second year in a row by the magnitude of the crowds, all peacefully praying, marching, and cheering, ‘We love Babies, yes we do!’ I surely hope that we were a witness to the Gospel of Life to all the oppositely viewed people or politicians who may have encountered our peaceful protest.” This was a wonderful trip. Not only did we explore different monuments and buildings; we were able to bond and march for something that is very important to us Catholics.This was a great trip for religious and political awakenings, (as well as lots of exciting tourist opportunities), and we can’t wait to participate again in future years.
We are the Pro-Life Generation!
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Academic Awards Night On April 23rd, 107 students received one or more of the following awards: •
Academic Awards are given in one of two categories: Service and Subject Awards. The Service Award is given to a student who has shown generosity with time and talent to a particular endeavor and is in good standing with the school. The Subject Award is based on the student’s success in a particular class taught at Machebeuf.
•
The Torch Award combines academics, athletics and activities based on a set point scale. It is the highest award an individual student can receive at Bishop Machebeuf High School that combines all three disciplines. There were 33 students receiving this award.
•
The Paul Murray Awards are bestowed upon two junior studentathletes who have exhibited in their lives a commitment to the ideals set forth in the Bishop Machebeuf High School Mission Statement. The recipients were Kate Moran and Dane Murzyn.
•
The Bishop Joseph P. Machebeuf Spirit Award recognizes a boy and girl from each class who through the witness of their lives supports the Core Values of Bishop Machebeuf High School. The recipients were:
Class
Name
2015
George Sandoval
2015
Ann Moore
2016
Thao Tran
2016
LaJeanne Smith
2017
Shayne Marcely
2017
Nicole Torres
2018
Fernando Chavez
2018
Kaitlyn Donahue
•
National Latin Exam awards: The National Latin Exam is a 40 question and multiple-choice test with a time limit of 45 minutes. It is offered to students taking Latin I, Latin II, Hon. Latin III, and AP Latin IV. There are questions on grammar, comprehension, mythology, derivatives, literature, Roman life, history, geography, and oral Latin, based upon one’s current grade level. The test grants the student five different awards based upon his/her performance. This year, of the 32 students who took the exam, 25 received an award. The following students received a Gold Medal and certificate Summa Cum Laude:
Freshmen: Marisa Joseph and Kyle Vestecka Sophomore: Mary Dillon Junior: Hannah Hurlbut and James Joseph The following students received a Gold Medal and a hand-lettered certificate for achieving a perfect score on the National Latin Exam: Freshmen: Fernando Chavez and Jack Staib
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
National Honor Society On April 21st, our high school welcomed its 11 newest members into BMHS’s chapter of the National Honor Society. Current officers Maureen Reilly, Keara O’Toole, Elizabeth Jensen, and Rosie Sabin led the ceremony along with our guest speaker, Physics teacher Mr. J.C. Clark. Following the induction, the new members spent the rest of the day volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School, the alma mater of many of the inductees. Students helped with multiple activities around the school, including working in the kindergarten classrooms with computers, leading reading groups, and practicing with second graders for their first Communion ceremony. We would like to thank Sister Maria Ivana and all the staff at St. Vincent’s for letting us participate with you. Thank you, as well, to all the parents and teachers who have worked so hard to help foster the members’ passion for learning and service. We especially thank the new inductees for their successful efforts of demonstrating scholarship, leadership, service, and character, which have earned them membership into our chapter.
THE 2015-2016 INDUCTED MEMBERS ARE:
Conor Howard Hannah Hurlbut Neil Isales James Joseph Kate Moran Dane Murzyn
Katie Napierkowski Louis Orzolek Claudia Perez Felicity Samaniego Luke Smith
Buffalo Ball Thank You! On behalf of the Machebeuf Community, we thank you for your generous contributions leading up to and during the night of the Buffalo Ball. This signature event would not have been such a success without the overwhelming generosity of our gracious sponsors, parent community, alumni, and local businesses. Through sponsorships, ticket income, cash gifts, the special appeal, and the live and silent auctions, we have raised over $145,000 to date! It was a lovely evening that helped not only to raise funds for Machebeuf, but also to continue the efforts of enhancing our academic programs, athletics and faith formation. Over the past seven years, the Buffalo Ball has evolved into a hallmark celebration for everyone affiliated with Bishop Machebeuf High School. Certainly, it is a blessing to witness the continued generosity of all who continue to support our community. Our success is dependent on the giving spirit of those like you, and we thank you!
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Scene at
Machebeuf
2015 Summer Reunion Roundup The Machebeuf legacy does not end on the graduation stage. It continues in perpetuity with lifelong friendships and memories, and we invite you to stay engaged in all the exciting offerings your alma mater can provide! Refresh your memories, get reacquainted with classmates, and reflect on the special role Machebeuf played in your life! For more information on reunions or to start the planning process for your class, please contact Alumni & Events Manager, Laura Dulay at 720-476-7487 or by email at ldulay@machebeuf.org.
We look forward to seeing you at your class reunion this summer!
Class of 1965
Class of 1995
Celebrating 50 years of friendship, August 14-16, 2015!
Celebrating 20 years of friendship!
The Class of 1965 is hosting your 50 year reunion August 14 - 16, 2015. To update your contact information, help with the planning process or to stay connected to reunion activities taking place, please contact your classmate, Greg Breen at breengreg@msn.com. Reunion organizers are asking classmates to post updated photos alongside your graduation picture to the following site: www.machebeufhs1965.classquest.com. WEEKEND ITINERARY: Friday, August 14, 2015 - Golf at Lake Arbor Golf Course (best ball) Saturday, August 15, 2015 - Dinner and dancing at Park Hill Golf Course Sunday, August 16, 2015 - Mass celebrated by Bishop Nickless at Bishop Machebeuf High School
Class of 1985
The Class of 1995 is currently in the process of planning your 20 year reunion. A date is in the works and will be determined soon. To update your contact information, help with the planning process or to stay connected to reunion activities taking place, please contact reunion organizers, Lucretia Shaw at lucretia@stanfordalumni.org, Lucianne Lajoie at luciannlajoie@yahoo.com, Aly Bean at Alybean@gmail.com, Kelly Narvaez at kkdeyoung@aps.k12.co.us, Cindy Arangua at cindy_arangua@yahoo.com or Kristen Crabtree at kristen@fgrealtygroup.com.
Class of 2005 Celebrating 10 years of friendship, on Saturday, July 18, 2015! The Class of 2005 is currently in the process of planning your 10 year reunion for Saturday, July 18, 2015. To update your contact information, help with the planning process or to stay connected to reunion activities taking place, please contact your classmate Paige Wilson at paigebnelson@gmail.com.
Celebrating 30 years of friendship, Sunday, August 9, 2015!
SAVE THE DATE FOR OUR 2015 HOMECOMING!
The Class of 1985 is currently in the process of planning your 30 year reunion for Sunday, August 9, 2015. To update your contact information, help with the planning process or to stay connected to reunion activities taking place, please contact your classmate Michelle Bray at braym3ts@aol.com.
Please plan on joining your Machebeuf Alumni Association for the 2015 Homecoming football game Friday, October 2nd at 7:30 PM at Manual High School. There will be a FREE Alumni Tailgate BBQ from 5:00 – 6:30 PM at Bishop Machebeuf High School!
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Signing Day April 15th was not just tax day this year; it was also National Signing day for high school athletes moving on to the next level to play in college. Machebeuf has a proud tradition of students playing at the collegiate level this year with five seniors were added to that list. Rebecca Haven signed to play volleyball at Franciscan University of Steubenville. Rebecca had a phenomenal senior season for the Buffaloes, as she was part of a team that made a deep playoff run. Rebecca is very excited to be attending Franciscan University. She states, “I am very excited to go play volleyball at Franciscan, and it works out well since I dislike the weather in Ohio, I will be in the gym all the time.” Catherine Hegarty signed to play soccer at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas. Catherine has been a team captain for the Machebeuf soccer team since she was a sophomore and led the team to their first playoff appearance in eight years. Catherine is especially excited to be playing soccer in college as she wanted to go to Benedictine as a school first and plans to study Accounting and Management. “I’m excited for this amazing opportunity. I can’t wait to continue my soccer career as a Raven!” Elizabeth Jensen signed to play volleyball at South Dakota School of Mines. Elizabeth has been a team captain for Machebeuf volleyball since she was a junior and was part of the team that made it to the state finals a year ago. Elizabeth was also voted Senior of the Year by the Metro League coaches, a huge honor. She is very motivated to be moving on to collegiate volleyball, but especially playing in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, with many of her opponents being in the Denver area. Elizabeth plans to study civil engineering. Elizabeth says, “I am thrilled to be a Hardrocker, and I can’t wait to play in front of hometown fans in the RMAC!” Keara O’Toole signed to play basketball at Johnson and Wales University here in Denver. Keara, like Catherine and Elizabeth, was a captain for her team at Machebeuf. She had many choices for college basketball and chose Johnson and Wales, as she gets to play in Denver. Keara plans to study criminal justice. “I am so excited to be playing college basketball, as it has always been a dream of mine, and I get to play in Denver!” Rose Sabin has signed to be on the competitive dance team at Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas. Rose has been dancing competitively for 14 years. Rose plans to double major in special and elementary education and minor in dance. “I cannot wait to continue my dance career at the collegiate level supporting and competing for a school I love. Go Ravens!” This is a great accomplishment for these student athletes. Please join the Athletic Department in congratulating them on this tremendous achievement!
Way To Go, Lady Buffs! THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Alumni Spotlight Welcome Roseann Cronan Bishop Machebeuf High School would like to welcome Roseann (Hegarty ’75) Cronan to our Buffalo community! Cronan recently joined The Catholic Foundation Alliance, a newly formed nonprofit dedicated to serving eight ministries within the Archdiocese of Denver, including Bishop Machebeuf High School. The Alliance is a consolidated effort of resources and people dedicated to fundraising and donor relationships. As Development Director with The Alliance, Ms. Cronan says she is enthusiastic about joining an extraordinary team of talented people, all working with efficiency and driven by excellence. She is honored to represent her alma mater, while Peter and Roseann Cronan and their family advancing its mission and celebrating its victories. Ms. Cronan will be working with the Machebeuf community to achieve the core goals articulated in the “Excellence 2018” initiative, particularly in the area of fiscal strength. Ms. Cronan has over 20 years of experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors with expertise in economic development, strategic planning, program development, implementation and evaluation, and targeted resource allocation. Cronan holds a Bachelor of Administration from Regis University, Denver and a Master of Community Planning (Economic Development) from the University of Rhode Island. Since 2005, Ms. Cronan and her family have lived less than a mile from Machebeuf in the Lowry neighborhood. Please join Ms. Cronan in her efforts to support the Alliance ministries that include Archbishop’s Catholic Appeal, Bishop Machebeuf High School, Centro San Juan Diego, Catholic Charities, Holy Family High School, Redemptoris Mater Missionary Seminary, Seeds of Hope Charitable Trust, and St. John Vianney Theological Seminary.
Meet Deacon Mason Fraley ‘07 The Machebeuf Alumni Association would like to extend our congratulations to Deacon Mason Fraley ’07, who was ordained a deacon on February 14, 2015. Mason graduated in 2007 from Machebeuf and began his formation process immediately after graduation. The Machebeuf Community recently had the privilege of welcoming Deacon Mason back into the building to celebrate at an All School Mass. Deacon Mason mentioned “what a joy it was coming back to Machebeuf and seeing the beautiful life of faith which looks to be stronger than ever!” He also mentioned he loves being a deacon, and cannot wait to become a priest next May.
On behalf of the entire Buffalo Community, we thank you for your service to the Church. Mason Fraley
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Shamar Valentine’s Dinner On February 12th, Machebeuf held its second annual Shamar Valentine’s Dinner. Shamar is a Hebrew word used in Genesis 2 to describe the role and responsibility God entrusts to Adam, a role that is foundational to his masculine identity. It means to guard, serve, and protect. Each year, the Shamar Valentine’s Dinner is an incredible opportunity for our students to live out and respond to St. John Paul the Great’s words: “The duty of every man is to uphold the dignity of every woman.” What a witness and response they gave! 92 Machebeuf girls arrived, each greeted at the door with a flower and walked to her seat at the dinner table by one of our 26 Machebeuf boys who volunteered to serve that night. The boys sat them in their seats, cooked and served them a three-course meal, cleared their tables, and thanked them for the gift of their beauty and femininity. What’s more, the girls allowed the men to serve and honor them. In a day and age when chivalry is proclaimed dead and women are made out to be nothing more than objects, the Shamar Valentine’s Dinner is proof that St. John Paul the Great’s words were not in vain.
Students Entering The Faith This water of the flood prefigured baptism, which saves you now. It is not a removal of dirt from the body but an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 3:21) Over the past two years at Machebeuf, five students have entered into full communion or been baptized in the Catholic Church. Warren Nitz, 2014, was the first of these catechumens and candidates. Junior Theology teacher Mr. Marc Lenzini’s love for Christ and teaching of His truth inspired Warren to begin his journey of discernment. Other students who have come into the Church frequently cite how Machebeuf ’s Theology classes have truly changed their lives. Bishop Machebeuf High School has partnered with St. Pius X Catholic Church to assist in forming the students in the Christian life. Students experienced their initiation into the Church at St. Pius’ Easter Vigil Ceremony on the eve of Easter Sunday. Macey Trommeter, Nick Brehm, and Laura Carranza Galvez, all members of the Class of 2016, came into the Church at this year’s Vigil. When asked why more and more students have come into the Church in recent years, Fr. Paul Kostka noted that the sheer number of teachers who witness to authentic Christian living has a transformative effect on the students. It is not a one-man show; it is a collaborative effort on the part of all faculty and staff. Another is the fact that so many students are witnesses and evangelizers to their fellow students. It is not just the “student leaders,” but it is the living witness of the student body as a whole. That witness is a powerful invitation to come into the fullness of the Church’s communion.
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Enrollment Updates Our students travel from This year we had
61 different zip codes to attend Machebeuf.
30 new transfer students join our community.
51% Female 49%
RACE African =
3%
African American =
7%
8% Hispanic = 24% Middle Eastern = .3% Multi-Race = 10% Vietnamese = 1% White = 45% Unknown = 1% Asian =
Male
Students come from
57 different middle schools, which includes
21 grade schools within the Archdiocese of Denver. RELIGION
1% Buddhist = .3% Catholic = 84% Christian = 5% Ethiopian = .3% Hindu = .3% Lutheran = .8% Methodist = .5% Baptist =
1% Orthodox Christian = 2% Presbyterian = .5% Non-Denominational =
68% of Machebeuf families are parish affiliated, coming from 45 different parishes.
RECRUITMENT EFFORTS
15 School Presentations 11 School Fairs 8 Public School 15 Green and Gold Days 198 Prospective students
5
shadowed this year Grade schools sent their whole 8th grade class to shadow
274 Total Guests at Open House 34 Schools Represented 18 Archdiocesan Schools Represented 16 Public Schools Represented
7th Grade Lock-in Machebeuf hosted our first 7th Grade Lock-In Saturday, April 25 through Sunday, April 26. A total of 48 7th graders attended representing 14 different schools. It was a chance for Machebeuf to share our faith formation program with the wider community. The theme of the night was Abundant Life, teaching the students to embrace the joys God has given us and to focus on living passionately and intentionally. Each of the 16 student leaders led small groups in discussion of personal experiences but also shared in friendly competition in games like dodgeball and laser tag. Madi Mares, 2015, said, “I really enjoyed getting to know the girls and hearing about their experiences in middle school. It helped me relate to them and enabled me to give them advice.� It was a memorable night that 7th graders are still raving about. Many thanks to Campus Ministry, chaperones, and student leaders in their efforts to make it such a successful time! We look forward to making this an annual event!
g
live an abundant life f
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Dear Bishop Machebeuf High School Parents, Students, Faculty, Alumni, and Friends, My name is Christopher M.A. Lujan, and I have served on the Board of Trustees since 2005. I was appointed to serve as Chairman of the Board of Trustees in November, 2014. It is with honor and humility that I accepted this appointment because of how much I care about Bishop Machebeuf High School and its future. I graduated from Bishop Machebeuf High School in 1990. I am a native of Denver, Colorado, and I am blessed to be married to my best friend, Tara Lujan. Tara and I have three future Buffs; Mitchell age 12, Georgia age 9, and Mason age 6. I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in 1994 and the Northeastern University School of Law in 1997. I have been fortunate in my career to serve as a prosecutor, civil litigator, former Human Resources Director, and I currently serve as the Deputy Director of Public Safety for the City and County of Denver. Simply put, none of this is possible without the education I received from Machebeuf, and as I have said many times:
“The education I received from Machebeuf is the best gift my parents ever gave me.” I joined the Board of Trustees 10 years ago because I was worried about BMHS’s future. Low enrollment numbers coupled with tuition inflation made me think that there may come a time when BMHS, like so many Catholic schools throughout the country, would cease to exist. Machebeuf would join the names of Marycrest and Central High School as Catholic high schools that did not make it. This is unfathomable to me, and it is not a future I want for any of our children. My vision for the coming year centers on three goals. First, the Board of Trustees will continue its work in identifying steps we can take to reduce tuition inflation. Asking parents every year to raise tuition can no longer be the norm for how BMHS operates. My father worked two jobs, and my mother worked fulltime to pay for a BMHS education. I am mindful that BMHS parents make the same financial commitments to continue to pay for an education that increases every year. I refuse to believe that we are destined to pay increased tuition now and in perpetuity. The BOT is committed to bending the tuition cost curve downward. Second, the BOT will focus on improving our facilities. Our aging facility needs immediate improvements in many areas. From the leaky roof to a gym floor that is vulnerable to moisture, the BOT is committed to making immediate improvements to our facility. In that same vein, the BOT is also exploring exciting new improvements like building a new weight room and a new chapel. We need to compete with other private schools when it comes to our facilities. Finally, the BOT will integrate with the ongoing efforts of the school to increase our student enrollment. Our viability will continue to hinge on our enrollment, and it is important that BMHS is competitive in the market for families who are seeking a quality Catholic education. Tuition, facilities, and enrollment are the linchpins for how successful we can be as a school. If we succeed in improving in all three areas, then we are well on our way to ensuring that a BMHS education is available for any student who is willing to earn it. Conversely, if the BOT cannot help move the ball in these three areas, it will be a disappointment. We are blessed to have a unique blend of energy, talent, and accomplishment in the members who sit on the BOT. We have former alumni, current parents, and leaders in the areas of finance, business, and law who are devoted to applying their time and talents to partnering with our Principal, Administration, and Faculty to ensure that BMHS is a school that keeps generating leaders for years to come. As we all continue in our journey of improvement, I am very interested in getting your ideas and listening to your thoughts on how to excel in the areas I referenced above. I can be reached at any time on my cell phone at 720.260.1802 or email at thelawdog07@msn.com. I look forward to hearing from you in the coming months. Congratulations to our students and parents of the Class of 2015. I am proud of what you have accomplished, and I look forward to all you will accomplish in the decades to come. God bless you and continue to bless Bishop Machebeuf High School.
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
Academic Spotlight
Big Idea Project/ Catholic Leadership Class
The Learning Strategies Program (LSP)
Catholic Social Doctrine and leadership skills teamed up this semester in a new elective offered to seniors. Inspired by the principles of the dignity of the human person, the common good, solidarity, and subsidiarity (keeping matters simple and local), the Catholic Leadership class, taught by Sister John Peter, focused on critical thinking and creative action. The class was connected to the Big Idea Project, a leadership initiative that Bryan and Tricia Halsey developed at Columbine High School that has now spread to seven other high schools in Colorado. The Big Idea Project is focused on generous leadership, leadership that “empowers others to reach their full potential,” as the Halseys put it.
The Learning Strategies Program (LSP) was established in 1999 to assist our students who have a diagnosed learning disability and/or physical disability. This program enables the students to discover their gifts and reach success in a challenging college preparatory program.
The Big Idea Project, while not explicitly Christian, fits wonderfully well with our core values and the virtue of magnanimity. Students in Catholic Leadership learned from the Big Idea Project’s concepts and applications of generous leadership as well as other key sources on leadership. They read and analyzed key leadership qualities from Strengths-based Leadership, The Fellowship of the Ring, and The Pope and the CEO: John Paul II’s Leadership Lessons to a Young Swiss Guard. While studying leadership, the students began to hone their own leadership skills by working on their own Big Idea Project.
We strive to help students discover their own process for learning. Our core belief in the LSP is that students with learning difficulties can and will succeed when they are engaged in a supportive relationship with an academic advisor who encourages them toward self-reflection. LSP is a supportive daily program which allows for specific accommodations in the classroom in order for our students to demonstrate their knowledge rather than their limitations.
The 11 seniors in the class grouped themselves into three teams and applied critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify a need/problem in the Denver community, analyze its root causes, and selected a solution. They planned and carried out their projects, receiving suggestions/feedback from mentors (Mr. Espinola, Mr. David Tadlock, and Miss Elizabeth Dawson - the latter is an FBI analyst). The work of the three teams varied: Expression through Exertion (John Keyte, Joseph La Rosa, and Kathryn Merth) spent time at St. Therese, saw their need for more athletic equipment, and raised $2000 to empower the students for excellence in physical education; the Truth Finders (Stephanie Montes, Stephany Vazquez, Myranda Weakland, and Luke Weinmann) raised student awareness about how putting one’s beliefs into practice helps one’s self-image and aids others; the Go-Getters (Rebecca Haven, Clare Lowrey, Ricky Pruneda-Castro, and Faustine Sullivan) desired to help children in after-school programs see that they are loved and practiced this spiritual accompaniment at a Bible study at St. Thomas More. As Pope John Paul II said, “Only in Christ can they fully understand their dignity as persons created and loved by God.” The students brought great enthusiasm to the class and are convinced that the lessons learned will stay with them after graduation. According to Clare Lowrey, “Catholic Leadership taught me what it means to be a generous leader: being a leader does not necessarily demand taking charge, but it does demand empowering others to take charge in their own lives.” Kathyrn Merth agreed, saying that knowing the disticnction of “empowering others” helped her grow in her understanding and practice of leadership. Joseph La Rosa stated that the class helped him to organize and execute projects in the real world. Catholic Leadership encouraged Stephany Vazguez “not be afraid to speak up and take action.” Luke Weinmann stated “Catholic Leadership has strengthened my teamwork, service, and joy.” The culmination of the Big Idea is the four-minute documentary of the project. Each team films, scripts, and edits this documentary to show their journey into generous leadership. The documentaries will be presented before judges from the Lowry community as the three teams compete for a $2000 scholarship towards college. The winning team from Machebeuf will have the chance to compete at the state level; each member of the winning team at the state competition will receive $1,500 towards college. The Big Idea Project is a great way for Machebeuf students not only to compete but also, and more importantly, to share the magnanimity, the mission, and the mercy of Jesus Christ, “the leader and perfecter of faith” (Hebrews 12:2).
THE BEACON SPRING/SUMMER 2015
2014-2015 School Year Shut Down for Service Day Recap On Friday, April 29, 2015, Bishop Machebeuf High School closed its doors for a regular school day to volunteer at 24 sites across the Metro area on the 4th Annual Shut Down for Service Day in school history. Over 400 students, faculty, and staff members gave of their time and talents to organizations including Denver Rescue Mission, Food Bank of the Rockies, Catholic Charities, and locations in the Lowry neighborhood. “The purpose of Shut Down for Service Day is to not only give our students an opportunity to give back to their Denver community, but as a Catholic school, our students also answer their call as Christians to serve their brothers and sisters in need,” said Monica Everhart, Director of Student Life and Shut Down for Service Day Coordinator. Senior Marina Godinez volunteered at the Denver Rescue Mission Outreach Center with 14 of her fellow students. “The experience was very eye opening. I felt amazing giving back to those in need,” Godinez said. Her group sorted many clothing donations for the homeless in their time at Denver Rescue Mission. In 2011, Machebeuf began this one day service endeavor as part of its service learning program. BMHS is committed to its core value of Community Service. As a Catholic educational institution, students learn that love of God can never be separated from love of neighbor. Through the experience of loving and serving the marginalized in our society, students come to a greater awareness of the needs of others and to a firmer understanding of what it means to live out their faith. Locations Served on Shut Down for Service Day 2015
Annunciation Catholic School St. Therese Catholic School Christ the King Catholic School Archdiocesan Housing – Mt. Loretto Archdiocesan Housing – Holy Family Plaza Archdiocesan Housing – Cathedral Plaza Archdiocesan Housing – Broadway Junction Archdiocesan Housing – Golden Pointe Gabriel House Lighthouse Women’s Center Colorado Free University Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Food Bank of the Rockies Denver Rescue Mission Shelter Denver Rescue Mission Outreach Center Little Sisters of the Poor Bishop Machebeuf High School Village @ Lowry Lowry Park Independent and Assisted Living Harvest Acres Farm Samaritan House Primrose School @ Lowry St. Pius X Catholic Church Lowry Community
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I’m excited to announce that Bishop Machebeuf will be adding a new program
to help support our International Students. This service will be provided to the International Students for an additional fee and will begin next year. Highlights of the program include: • Students will receive direct support from me on a daily basis. • I will work with students on their course work, monitor their grades, and help support their efforts to improve their English. • I will work with the teachers to help them develop strategies to maximize student learning. I will also serve as a bridge between the teacher and the International Students.
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Please contact me if you have any questions concerning this new program. Thank You, Dan Hahn
Student Artwork
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Bishop Machebeuf High School an academic community of faith
Congratulations to our graduating
Class of 2015!
Argel Almeraz Madison Bartlett Lissete Benavidez Philip Brown Kaela Buffum Hogan Brian Burbach Valeria Burciaga Theodore Camfield Kenneth Carlson Rebecca Carrillo Rebecca Cleven Nicholas Combs Matthew Costin Robert Costin Nicholas Crosthwaite Gabrielle Dexter Nicholas Dobbins Jake Donahue Thomas Efrem Paul Eshelman Benjamin Espinola Peter Espinola Katelin Espinola Misgana Gebremariam Marina Godinez
Rebecca Haven Reinier Haverhals Catherine Hegarty Jair Hernandez Felicia Hernandez Orlando Herrera Torie Huddleston Lily Jansen Elizabeth Jensen John Keyte Luke Koestler-Roach Joseph La Rosa Caroline Landry Nghia Le Sang Heon Lee Humberto Lopez Clare Lowrey Jacqueline Lujan Arana Matthew Mannion Madison Mares Kimberly Mata-Martinez Matthew McCabe Thomas McCarty Joseph Mellentine Kathryn Merth
Zachary Michalczyk Stephanie Montes Ann Moore Carley Moore Thomas Moran Amy Moser Aidan Naughton Samantha Nazish Joseph Negusse Nhat Anh Chu Ngo Lea Nichols Kyrie O’Shea Keara O’Toole Alondra Ortiz Olivia Osland Denise Overbey Francis Paolucci Hae Won Park Karen Perez Anna Pham Jennifer Potter Ricardo Pruneda-Castro Victor Ramirez Maureen Reilly Daniel Rios
Francisco Rodriguez William Rogan Marina Ruddick Rose Sabin George Sandoval Carleigh Scull James Silvestri Ingrid Solano Henock Solomon Gabrielle Spino Benjamin Suhr Faustine Sullivan Nyadak Thau Riley Thielke Lily Tovado Nguyen Tram Colin Turner Joseph Tynan Ethan Varela Stephany Vazquez Elizabeth Vergil Augustino Vigil Bianca Villa-Ramirez Myranda Weakland Luke Weinmann Matthew White
The Class of 2015 earned $3 million in scholarships Our graduates have gained admission to: American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Ave Maria University, Baylor University, Benedictine College, Colorado School of Mines and Technology, Colorado State University, Colorado State University, Pueblo, Community College of Aurora, Community College of Denver, DeSales University, Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, Evergreen Valley College, Franciscan University of Steubenville, Gonzaga University, Johnson and Wales University, Laramie County Community College, Loras College, Metropolitan State University of Denver, New Mexico Military Institute, Northern Arizona University, Pennsylvania State University, Regis University, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, United States Air Force, United States Merchant Marine Academy, United States Navy, University of Wyoming, University of Colorado, University of Colorado - Boulder, University of Colorado - Denver, University of Hawaii at Manoa, University of Kansas, University of Kentucky, University of Mary, University of Mississippi, University of Northern Colorado, University of Portland, University of Wyoming, Western State Colorado University
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Bishop Machebeuf High School 458 Uinta Way Denver, CO 80230
Thank You to Our Sponsors ROUTZON FAMILY FOUNDATION MARK & NANCY BAUMAN CRAIG BOWMAN KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL #4647 ARCHDIOCESE OF DENVER CAERUS OIL & GAS, LLC HEGARTY & GERKEN, INC. FRANCISCO & CLARA LA ROSA JOHN & SARAH LANDRY MARAIS DES CYGNES CATTLE CO., LLC THE CATHOLIC FOUNDATION VAL LASKOWSKI INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. DENTAL 911 KUNDINGER, CORDER & ENGLE, P.C.
MIKE & ANGIE NAPIERKOWSKI ADVANTAGE SCREEN PRINTING BLUE BELL CREAMERIES BONNIE BRAE FLOWERS, INC. CHICK-FIL-A CORNERSTONE HOME LENDING, INC. JAY & STEPHENNE CRAWFORD JUNDA GRAPHICS KEVIN & MARY MCNICHOLAS RANGEL LAWN CARE ST. THOMAS MORE CATHOLIC CHURCH SERIOZ PIZZA SOUTHERN WINE & SPIRITS SYRUP