GONZAGA
• THE JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL •
Gonzaga College High School
Educating young men in the Jesuit tradition since 1821 19 Eye Street, NW Washington, D.C., 20001
PRESIDENT
Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75
CHAIR OF THE GONZAGA BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Tim Flynn ’72
HEADMASTER
Thomas K. Every II
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Stephen M. Neill ’89
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI & ADVANCEMENT
David Dugan ’98
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
Byron Harper ’84
Gonzaga Magazine, the official magazine of Gonzaga College High School, is published by the Gonzaga Office of Marketing and Communications.
EDITOR
Mary Clare Glover
ASSISTANT EDITOR
Annie Rosello
DESIGNER
Brea Neri Deutsch
CONTRIBUTORS
Byron T. Harper ’84
Conrad Singh ’00
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tony Fletcher
Conrad Singh ’00
Renee Spencer
Jessica Taglieri
Matt Taglieri ’04
Please send comments, suggestions, corrections, and changes of address to info@Gonzaga.org.
On the cover: Ivan Hughes ‘25 takes in the beauty of the Rose Window at the Basilica del Voto Nacional in Quito, Ecuador in June, as part of a summer immersion trip for rising seniors. Photo credit: Olivia Young, Community Director for the Center for Working Families.
the past 42
Over
years, thousands of Gonzaga students have gone on the Kairos Retreat. To read a story with reflections on this central aspect of the Gonzaga experience, turn to page 26.
Gonzaga is fortunate to have a long and deep history of philanthropy in which the extended community partners with the school to help us meet the needs of our students. In this article, we tell the stories of three different funds at Gonzaga – two endowed, one current use –which exemplify this remarkable culture of generosity.
This past March, Gonzaga held its 175th Kairos. To commemorate this milestone, Gonzaga Magazine gathered reflections and recollections about the formative retreat from alumni, former and current faculty members, and recent Kairos attendees.
On Sunday, June 2, Gonzaga congratulated and celebrated its newest alumni, the Class of 2024.
Dear Gonzaga Community,
The new school year is an exciting time at Gonzaga –after weeks of quiet, our hallways and classrooms come to life again with the laughter and chatter of students and faculty. I always particularly enjoy welcoming and meeting our newest families at the New Families Welcome Picnic and Orientation during the first week of school; their excitement about and anticipation of what lies ahead is both palpable and contagious.
As I enjoy this bustling and exciting time of year on Eye Street, I am struck by the notion that time is a moment rather than a measure. In our busy world, time is frequently determined by hours and deadlines, but with this letter I invite you to consider time in a different light — as a series of precious, impactful moments.
While our students do spend a specific amount of time at Gonzaga (four years), I humbly assert that their time spent here is more a collection of transformative moments and experiences rather than a chronological measure. Our alumni often tell me that the time they spent at Gonzaga remains with them forever, a sentiment that as an alumnus myself I deeply appreciate and share. Indeed, because of the enormous intellectual, emotional, physical, spiritual, and social growth our students experience over their four years here, this relatively brief time in their lives is a moment when meaningful seeds are planted.
Gonzaga and influence on our young men.
Throughout the pages of this magazine, you will find photos and stories capturing other great moments in time: graduation, reunions, the Mother-Son Mass and Brunch, Father Son Communion Breakfast, and more. I hope you enjoy seeing these snapshots of time on Eye Street, and that they offer a window into what makes this community so vibrant and meaningful.
It is with this lens in mind that I invite you to read our story, “Celebrating God’s Time” on page 26. This past spring, Gonzaga held its 175th Kairos Retreat and this article is a celebration of what has become a pivotal aspect of the Gonzaga student experience. For many of our alumni, Kairos – which in Greek means “time” – stands out for them as a special time of growth and change. I hope you enjoy reading about its impact on
As we look forward to the year ahead, let us remember that time is not just about measuring progress but about living mindfully in each moment. Thank you for your continued support of Gonzaga. I wish you a school year filled with meaningful moments and growth.
Sincerely, with every best wish,
Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75 President
A Warm Welcome
This fall, the Gonzaga community welcomed three new Jesuits who bring a wealth of experience, ideas and enthusiasm to campus. Please say hello when you see them around Eye Street!
Fr. Sean Hagerty, S.J. joins Campus Ministry as the Director of Ignatian Identity and Mission. Born and raised in New York City, he attended Fordham University on a ROTC scholarship, then served as an active duty US Army field artillery officer, deployed to Iraq and left the Army as a Captain in 2010. He joined the Jesuits in 2012, earned advanced degrees from Saint Louis University and Boston College, and is currently studying Canon Law at Catholic University. He has previously taught theology at Cheverus High School in Portland, Maine.
“I very much enjoy working at high schools because of the wonderful sense of community they foster,” Fr. Hagerty says. “It is immediately apparent that the community at Gonzaga is both welcoming and kind.” In his new role, he hopes to help foster spiritual life among students,
faculty, and staff. He enjoys fly fishing, spending time with veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, and hopes to connect with the local veterans community.
Originally from the small town of Vienna, West Virginia, Mr. R.J. Jacobs, S.J. has joined the faculty as a science teacher. He attended West Virginia University for science education and pharmacy degrees, and then studied social philosophy and worked in campus ministry at Loyola University Chicago. He has been a Jesuit for five years.
“I hope to share a love for learning and to be an encouraging, caring figure in the lives of our students,” Mr. Jacobs explains. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, reading, playing cards, trivia games and watching films. He adds, “even though my talent is limited, I can sometimes be found exercising my vocal cords and singing karaoke!”
Born in Japan while his father was in the Navy, Mr. Christian Zombek, S.J. grew up in Oneida, New York and moved downstate after high school to the Bronx to attend Fordham University. He recently obtained his Master’s in Philosophy and Theology for Ministry at Saint Louis University as part of his Jesuit formation; he joined the order in 2019, and joins the faculty as a math teacher.
“I think I will contribute zeal and energy to the school,” Mr. Zombek says. “The resources and opportunities students have here are outstanding, and I want to help them experience the full richness of their education in the way they choose to explore it.” Mr. Zombek is a painter, a Spanish speaker and occasionally plays video games. He also loves watching sports, especially the Yankees, Eagles and Manchester United.
Left to right: Mr. R.J. Jacobs, S.J., Mr. Christian Zombek, S.J., and Fr. Sean Hagerty, S.J.
Performing Arts Hall of Fame
February 3, 2024
The Gonzaga Alumni Association celebrated the artistic accomplishments of our school and alumni by inducting several new members into the Performing Arts Hall of Fame this year. The Selection Committee was pleased and excited this year to induct late longtime former Gonzaga faculty member Chris Flannery, Marshall Keys ’73, the original WZAG class of 1976-77, Tucker Cawley ’86, the Cast and Crew of the 2011 Production of Kiss Me, Kate, Cydnee Wellburn Rafferty (Stone Ridge ’98), and Peter Mele ’99. Congratulations to all!
1. From left to right: Chuck Lewis ’77, Peter Mele ’99, Cydnee Welburn Rafferty (Stone Ridge ’98), Fr. Lingan, Carol Sargent, Marshall Keys ’73, Tucker Cawley ’86, and Julia “JZ” Zaeske. 2. Meghan Goldsmith, current GDA moderator, with John Nalls ’82, Vice Chairman of the Performing Arts Hall of Fame, and his wife, Suzie Nalls. 3. Inductee Marshall Keys ’73 (second from left) with family.
4. Carol Sargent, sister of late longtime Gonzaga faculty member Chris Flannery, with Gonzaga science teacher Cecilia Fernandez. 5. Longtime former GDA moderator and Gonzaga English teacher Alan L’Etoile ’73 with family.
1., 2., 3., 4. A highlight of this annual event is the portraits taken of mothers and sons before and after Mass. In each of these photos, the moms are showcasing their Gonzaga pride by wearing a splash of purple. 5. Altar servers pose for a photo before Mass. 6. Students and their moms enjoying breakfast before the slideshow of mother-son photos begins.
Mother Son Mass and Breakfast
March 3, 2024
Gonzaga celebrated the bond between mothers and sons during its annual Mother Son Mass and Breakfast. Held on a sunny, cold day in early March, the day included Mass in St. Aloysius Church followed by brunch and a program in the Carmody Center.
St. Aloysius Mass and Dinner
April 14, 2024
1. Pictured here are the recipients of the 2024 St. Aloysius Medal (from left to right) Rev. David A. Bava, Alvin Maddox, Jane Tuck, Michael Howell ’70, and Michael Murray ’62, along with Gonzaga President Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75. 2. Kathryn Barrett-Gaines and Walter Hill ’83 enjoying the cocktail hour in the courtyard. 3. Danny Costello ’72 reading the citations thanking and celebrating each of this year’s honorees. 4. St. Al’s Medal recipient Michael Murray ’62 with his extended family. 5. Father Lingan greets guests during Mass in St. Aloysius Church, which was held before the reception. 6. Gonzaga Religion teacher Ms. Katie Murphy with St. Al’s Medal recipient Father Bava.
A special event held on Gonzaga’s campus in the spring, the St. Aloysius Mass and Dinner is an opportunity for the school to thank our most generous benefactors. It’s also the occasion when Gonzaga presents several community members with the St. Aloysius Medal, recognizing those who have exhibited exemplary service, commitment, and overall dedication to our school and greater community.
1. During the ceremony in Sheehy Theater, a video and citations celebrated this year’s inductees: Jim Fegan ’50, the 1968 Golf Team, Christian Jordan ’94, John Swagart ’94, John Kalil ’95, Brian Burke ’97, JD Schmidt ’99, John Jennings, Johnson Bademosi ’08, the 2008 Basketball team, and Kris Jenkins ’13. 2. The 2008 basketball team amassed a record of 34-1 and earned a WCAC Championship title for Eye Street. 3. 2024 inductee Jim Fegan ’50 smiles during the induction ceremony. 4. Johnson Bademosi ’08 played football at Stanford University before going on to play nine seasons in the NFL. 5. Athletic Director Terry Kernan ’08 (left) and Gonzaga President Father Lingan, S.J. ’75 (right) pictured with 2024 inductee John Jennings 6. Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement Dave Dugan ’98 embraces 2024 inductee Kris Jenkins ’13, a twotime Gatorade Player of the Year on Eye Street who went on to play basketball for Villanova – and famously hit the buzzer-beater that captured the NCAA championship for the Wildcats in 2016.
Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
April 27, 2024
The Joe Kozik Gonzaga Athletic Hall of Fame pays tribute to Gonzaga’s rich athletic legacy by recognizing outstanding contributions made by athletes, coaches, administrators, and teams. This year, the Gonzaga Alumni Association was excited to induct 11 new members, who were celebrated with a cocktail hour and reception followed by an induction ceremony in Sheehy Theater.
Father Son Communion Breakfast
April 28, 2024
Hundreds of Gonzaga dads and students – both current and incoming – attended the Father Son Communion Breakfast in April. This year marked the 76th annual event, which includes Mass in St. Aloysius Church followed by a brunch and program at the nearby Hyatt Regency Capitol Hill. 4
1., 2. Gonzaga President Father Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75 presided over a beautiful Mass in St. Aloysius Church. 3. Dads and sons stop for a photo in front of the U.S. Capitol Building on the walk from Gonzaga to the Hyatt. 4. Gonzaga’s late longtime Athletic Director Joe Reyda ’85, who passed away in June 2023, was honored posthumously as the Alumni Association Man of the Year. Pictured here are Joe’s family members, daughters Molly and Caroline, father Steve, and wife Tricia. 5. Father Lingan alongside Ash Hawken ’53, who was honored with the Father Novotny Service Award during the program. 6. Guests enjoying breakfast before the program begins.
Welcome New Board Members
As we embark on the 2024-2025 school year, Gonzaga is grateful for the counsel and support of the following new members of the Board of Trustees.
Rev. Peter Folan, S.J. is a Jesuit priest and an assistant professor in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at Georgetown University. He holds a doctorate in systematic theology, has spent years studying biblical languages, and has ministered at Jesuit parishes in Boston and Washington, D.C. Father Folan’s
research focuses on ecumenical theology, particularly the ways that the Bible and its interpretation function in ecumenical dialogues.
Robert Groves serves as provost of Georgetown University, where he also is a member of the faculty, teaching in the departments of mathematics and statistics and sociology. Prior to joining Georgetown, he was director of the US Census Bureau, an appointed position he assumed after being director of the University of Michigan Survey Research Center, professor of sociology, and research professor at the Joint Program in Survey Methodology at the University of Maryland. Given the university’s plans to expand its capital campus in downtown Washington, Gonzaga looks forward to continuing its ongoing collaboration with Georgetown.
Kathleen McAuliffe brings to Gonzaga’s Board more than 20 years of experience as an attorney. Currently working for Spark Therapeutics, Ms. McAuliffe spent nearly two decades at the Washington law firm Hogan Lovells. She earned her law degree from St. Louis University School of Law and her nonprofit executive management degree from Georgetown University. She is also the mother of three Gonzaga alumni (Dolan Smith ’20, Henry Smith ’22, and Macklin Smith ’24) as well as a member of the executive committee of the board of the Father McKenna Center.
Campus Update
Over the summer, Gonzaga underwent significant infrastructure improvement projects, including replacing the major underground hydronic piping in the courtyard that supplies heating and air conditioning to the majority of campus. “On a historic campus like ours, maintenance is non-stop and expensive, and involves projects like this summer’s that don’t lend themselves to ribbon cuttings,” says Chief Operating Officer Mr. Stephen Neill ’89. “It isn’t glamorous, doesn’t excite donors, and looks the same as it did beforehand, but our underground HVAC infrastructure is good to go for another 50 years.”
The Board of Trustees has in recent years increased replacement reserves funding for projects such as these, which Neill notes is essential. “A failure of these pipes during a cold stretch in February would have been incredibly disruptive to school operations. So while it was a little warm here on Eye Street this summer during construction, it was worth it.”
Masterpieces and Melodies
Fine arts at Gonzaga were celebrated in fine fashion on Thursday, April 25th when the Gonzaga Arts Department organized both an art exhibit and spring concert.
During the show, the Arrupe Commons was transformed into a vibrant art gallery where the work of visual arts students in all courses was on display. Meanwhile, as
parents, faculty and students perused the artwork, the space was filled with the talents of Gonzaga musicians from the jazz band, chamber choir, concert choir, and applied piano program.
When the art gallery closed, the crowd moved into Sheehy Theater where the symphonic band, concert band, and chamber orchestra gave
their spring performances. Fine Arts Department Chair Shelly Farace was delighted with the wide variety of talent displayed. “I am very proud of each and every student in the fine arts program at Gonzaga. It is amazing to see their artistic skills and individual expression grow.”
and more – was on display
1. Fine Arts teachers Ms. Shelly Farace (left) and Ms. Molly Flynn. 2. Student artwork – photographs, drawings, paintings,
throughout the Arrupe Commons. 3. Led by Choral Arts Director Ms. Jenni Dunn, the concert choir performed Coldplay favorite Viva la Vida 4. Students also performed in the Sheehy Theater.
Sweeping Success
Gonzaga’s spring production of Mary Poppins received two nominations for the Brandon Victor Dixon Awards for excellence in high school musical theater. A regional partner of the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (also known as the Jimmy Awards), the BVD awards are the highest honor for high school theater in the country. Gonzaga received nominations for Best Musical as well as Best Actor (JP Howard ’24 as George Banks), and performed during the awards ceremony at the National Theater in May. Congratulations to the entire GDA on this great honor!
CSI: Gonzaga
In Mr. Paul Hamm’s elective Forensic Science class, students learn about the application of science to criminal and civil law. In the picture at right, Mr. Hamm’s class is visiting the “crime house” at George Mason University, which the forensic science department there uses to teach and train students in crime scene investigation.
Dr. Joseph DiZinnio (P ’22), a former FBI agent and professor of Forensics at GMU, met with the students before letting them loose to apply what they have learned in class and “investigate.” They surveyed the area, sketched, measured, and photographed the crime scene, collected evidence, and completed all the necessary documentation.
“This class brings science to life in a concrete, hands-on way that students love,” says Mr. Hamm. “It’s a wonderful way to show students how what they have learned in general science classes like Biology and Chemistry can be applied to fascinating real world careers.”
Eagles Fly High!
Highlights from the winter 2023-2024 season
Basketball
Gonzaga Basketball won its third straight DC Classic Championship with a 55-48 win over Jackson Reed and also won the King Cotton Classic championship by defeating three national opponents over the winter break. During their 11-0 start to the season, Head Coach Steve Turner earned his 450th career victory. In postseason play, the Eagles beat Bishop Ireton and DeMatha to advance to the WCAC Championship and finished with a 28-6 record and a #23 national ranking by Max Preps. The team was led by captains Derek Dixon ’25, Johnny Gardiner ’24, Blake Harper ’24, Nykolas Lewis ’25, and Michael Williams ’24. Lewis was a First Team All-Met Selection for the second straight year, Dixon earned Second Team, and Christian Gurdak ’25 earned Honorable Mention. Lewis and Dixon were also First Team All-WCAC selections while Gurdak was Second Team All-WCAC. Blake Harper and Will Harper ’25 earned WCAC Honorable Mention.
Ice Hockey
The Varsity 1 Eagles avenged their WCAC final loss to St. John’s by beating the Cadets 7-3 in the coveted MAPHL AA Championship on February 26. This was the 10th title in program history and led to the Eagles finishing their season ranked #2 by The Washington Post. Goalie Tucker Forrest ’24 earned First Team All-Met, Second Team MAPHL, and Second Team All-WCAC. Roman Villegas ’25 earned Second Team All-Met, Second Team MAPHL, and First Team All-WCAC. Lucas Abrantes ’25, T.J. Albero ’25, Ben Norton ’24, Daniel Rogers ’24, and Edwin Siembieda ’25 all earned Honorable Mention All-Met. Albero was Second Team MAPHL and First Team All-WCAC while Rogers earned Honorable Mention All-WCAC. Hunter Oglesby ’24 was Second Team All-WCAC and Hamilton Nordwind ’24 was Honorable Mention All-WCAC. Additionally, the Varsity 2 dominated St. Stephen St. Agnes 7-2 to win the MAPHL A title for the sixth time in school history and third consecutive
year. Coach Kyle Sennott was awarded Co-Coach of the Year.
Indoor Track
Indoor Track finished first at the VA Beach High School Opener, and also notched first place finishes in the Private Schools Invite and the Jesuit Invite. In the DCSAA Championship, the Eagles came in third place as Anthony Sarro ’26 won both the 1600 and 3200 meter races. John Dearie ’24 and Kainoa Winston ’25 earned Honorable Mention All-Met. Dearie broke the 55m Hurdles school record with a 7.38 and Winston broke his own school record in the 55m with a 6.40. The Eagles ran the 4x200 at both Nike and New Balance Nationals. At New Balance, Gonzaga qualified for and competed in the 4xMile for the first time in school history with the team of Will Buckley ’25, Sarro, Matt Podratsky ’25, and Lucas Rohde ’24. At Nike, Sarro came in second in the Emerging Elite Mile with a time of 4:19.95. And at Adidas Nationals, Ryan Brown ’27 came in 6th in the Freshman 400 while Ozias Tulloch ’27 won the Freshman 60m Hurdles and came in 6th in the Freshman Long Jump.
Squash
A highlight for the Squash program this year was earning back-to-back wins on January 29 and February 5 against The Heights and Maret, both by the narrow team score of 4-3. This was Coach Joe Sampugnaro’s second year heading the program and the team was led by seniors Matthew Pardo ’24, Theo Schindler ’24, Hayden Wierzba ’24, and Nick Winters ’24.
Swim & Dive
Swim & Dive won its fifth straight WCAC Championship, its 13th straight Washington Metro Private Schools Swimming and Diving League Championship, and the DCSAA Championship to finish the season ranked #8 in the country. The following Eagles were named WMPSSDL All League: Finn Bacon ’24, Palmer Bice ’25, Anderson Bishop ’25, Andre Brooks ’25, Hank Holden ’24, Malcolm McKenzie ’24, Kirk Morgan ’27, and Caden Wilkinson ’25. Bacon and McKenzie were named Second Team All-Met while Bice, Bishop, Brooks, and
Wilkinson all earned Honorable Mention All-Met. Bice, Morgan, and Wilkinson all won individual state titles, and the 200 medley relay (McKenzie, Bice, Morgan, and Holden) and 400 free relay (Wilkinson, Bishop, Oliver Gooch ’26, and Brooks) also won state titles. McKenzie swam NISCA All-American times in the 50 free (20.61) and in the 100 fly (49.17).
Wrestling
Under second year head coach Reggie Snowden, the Eye Street Grapplers won their third consecutive DC Title. The Eagles won the DCSAA Championship on
February 17 with 202 team points over second place Jackson Reed (176 points). State champions were Conor Meeker ’27 (106 lbs), Bo Sulc ’26 (165 lbs), and Matt Van Sice ’25 (157 lbs); all three Eagles qualified for National Preps. Ryu Johnson ’25 (190 lbs) and Haitham Karim ’25 (175 lbs) both finished as finalists and also qualified for National Preps. Additionally, Jethro Ward ’26 (138 lbs) finished as a finalist to earn crucial points for the team. Sulc won the 175 lb WCAC Championship, wrestled his way to the round of 16 at Nationals, and earned Second Team All-Met. Meeker and Van Sice were Honorable Mention All-Met selections.
Hail Gonzaga!
Highlights from the spring 2024 season on Eye Street
Baseball
In a span of three days, Gonzaga Baseball won three games by one run each — all on the road — to advance to the WCAC Championship this year. The final win in the run, over Paul VI, was capped off by a walk-off home run by captain Peyton Battaglini ’24. Under first-year head coach Greg Ladd, the Eagles started the season with a 9-3 record, including two impressive wins on their spring break trip to Myrtle Beach. The team was led by pitcher Jack Feehery ’24 who earned 1st All-WCAC and Honorable Mention All-Met. Bryant James ’26 was 1st Team All-WCAC, and Mason Dougherty ’24, Mason Green ’24, and Joseph Zorc ’24 were 2nd Team
All-WCAC. Additionally, Keenan Reynolds ’24, Cash McDade ’25, and Tyler Majkowski ’26 were Honorable Mention All-WCAC.
Crew
A highlight of the Crew season this year was repeating as the WMIRA boys’ champion. The top varsity eight boat was seeded second to St. Albans after falling to the Bulldogs at the Foley Cup, but held off a late surge to get the win. “The across-the-board top finishes of the crews at this year’s WMIRAs reflect the depth and intensity of the boys’ training,” said Head Coach Tom Daley. Kyle McHugh ’24 was 1st Team All-Met and the Second V8 (Cruley ’25, Alexander ’24,
Corcoran ’24, Wagner ’25, Harlor ’25, Decker ’25, Egge ’25, Choquette ’25, Heil ’24) earned an All-Met Best Boat distinction. Additionally, Nick Abrials ’24, Andres Krizan-Luque ’25, and Brendan Stroh ’24 earned Honorable Mention All-Met. At SRAA Nationals, the First V8 won the petite final and both the Second V8 and Lightweight 4 won the National Championship in their divisions.
Fencing
Started as a club in the Fall of 2006, Fencing became Gonzaga’s newest varsity sport — providing a unique and fun opportunity for students to develop greater poise, confidence, and focus. The team competed in and won its first two
varsity matches in program history versus St. Anselm’s Abbey and Georgetown Prep in March. Gonzaga finished 4-1 on the season after earning a pair of wins over Landon in April. The Eagles were led by head coach Robert Horan ’12 along with seniors Nick Avalos and Drew LeNard.
Golf
Continuing a streak that dates back to 2015, Gonzaga Golf again won the WCAC Championship this year. In addition, the squad took home the coveted Metro Championship for the first time since 2022 by beating Georgetown Prep by 14 strokes. The DCSAA Championship was added in 2022, and each of the last two years, Gonzaga came up short against St. Albans. But this year, “Gonzaga would not be denied, going wire-to-wire for a convincing team win and earning its third title of the postseason,” wrote The Washington Post. Gonzaga finished with a four-over-par team score of 292 beating St. John’s (306) and St. Albans (307) for the DCSAA title. Carson Looney ’25 won low medalist at both WCACs and DCSAAs (with a 66 at both) and was named All-Met Player of the Year and WCAC Co-Player of the Year. Jack Hartman ’24 was 1st Team All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC. Patrick Pritsios ’24 was 2nd Team All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC. Jacob Peel ’24 was Honorable Mention All-Met and 2nd Team All-WCAC. Jake Lopes ’27 earned 2nd Team All-WCAC while Andrew Kozeny ’24 and Matthew Delpizzo ’26 were Honorable Mention All-WCAC.
Lacrosse
After suffering some close early losses to national competition to start the year, Gonzaga Lacrosse came together to win 12 of 14 games to close the regular season. And after dominating the first WCAC playoff games, the Eagles defeated St. John’s 11-10 in front of a packed house at Georgetown University to win the WCAC Championship on May 13th. Johnny Gardiner ’24 was 1st Team All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC. James Gardiner ’24 and Freddy Fowler ’24 both earned 2nd Team All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC while Gaetano Cicotello ’25 was Honorable Mention All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC. Bobby McCarthy ’25 was 1st Team All-WCAC and Robert Bath ’24, Kevin Kane ’25, Joe Matan ’24, and Charlie McNamara ’24 were 2nd Team All-WCAC. Honorable Mention All-WCAC
honorees were Cody Hobson ’24, Michael Michaelis ’24, and Carter Cadin ’25. Second year head coach Jeff King was named WCAC Coach of the Year.
Rugby
Gonzaga Rugby became back-to-back National Champions by defeating St. Ignatius (OH) 45-25 in Elkhart, Indiana in May. In addition to being the program’s sixth national title, the win was especially gratifying as the championship trophy was newly named the Lee Kelly Memorial Trophy in honor of longtime Gonzaga Rugby Coach Lee Kelly. Kimani Laumoli ’24 (game MVP), Conall Brannan ’24, and Steele Dombo ’24 led the way up front, while Brody Johnson ’24 and Will Breslin ’24 controlled the pace. Captain Kieran Downs ’24 and Mack Smith ’24 played with tremendous vision and skill. Captain Hudson Chiow ’24, Matt Grau ’24, Joey Hurley ’24, captain Andrew LaFrankie ’24, and Alex Jancy ’24 all played with great toughness. “Our vision for the last two years was not to just win but to play a brand of rugby that was higher than any played before in high school,” said head coach Peter Baggetta.
Tennis
Gonzaga Tennis finished in third place at the WCAC Championship this year. Jack Sherner ’24 won the WCAC #1 Singles title and earned 1st Team All-Met and 1st Team All-WCAC. Brendan Henneberry ’24 was a finalist in WCAC #2 Singles and earned 2nd Team All-WCAC. Sherner and Henneberry teamed up to win the WCAC #1 Doubles title.
Track & Field
Track & Field finished second at the DCSAA Championship for the third year
in a row. John Dearie ’24 set school records in the 110 Hurdles (13.92) and 300 Hurdles (37.35) and was the Track MVP at the Dogwood Track Classic and at DCSAAs. Kainoa Winston ’25 won the WCAC 100m Dash. Winston, Jude McGroarty ’24, Calvin Timm ’25, and Lincoln Fisher ’25 won the WCAC and DCSAA 4x200 races; and they set a new school record (1:27.41). The DCSAA 4x100 (Shelton ’27, Fisher, McLaughlin ’24, Winston) set a school record as well (42.72). Our Penn Relays 4x400 (Timm, Dearie, Ozias Tulloch ’27, McGroarty) won a second consecutive Wheel trophy by winning their heat in dramatic fashion. At Nike Nationals at Hayward Field in Portland, OR, Gonzaga’s Sprint Medley Relay (Timm, McGroarty, Dearie, Lucas Rohde ’24) set a school record (3.33.69) to finish 4th and earn an AllAmerican distinction. Dearie and Fisher were named Honorable Mention All-Met.
Celebrating an Extraordinary Educator
very spring during Charter Day, the school recognizes faculty and staff who are celebrating milestone anniversaries of service to Gonzaga. This year, Math and Computer Science teacher Mr. Mark Howell ’73 received a standing ovation for his incredible 45 years of service to Gonzaga. “Mark’s passion for teaching, math, and Jesuit education are infectious and come through in every conversation I have with him,” says Gonzaga President Father Lingan. “Gonzaga – and countless Gonzaga students over his 45 years – are incredibly lucky to have him.”
PROFILES IN Generosity
By Annie Rosello
Gonzaga is fortunate to have a long and deep history of philanthropy in which the extended community partners with the school to help us meet the needs of our students. On the pages that follow, we tell the stories of three different funds at Gonzaga – two endowed, one current use – which exemplify this remarkable culture of generosity.
These three funds came about at different times and in different ways: One was born out of tragedy, one a visionary class effort, and one was established just last year as a testament to the Jesuit foundation instilled on Eye Street. However, what they share in common is a desire to create opportunities for current and future Gonzaga students. Together, they offer a window into the ripple effect that can be caused by gratitude and generosity.
Scan the QR code to learn more about the many funds you can support at Gonzaga, each with its own unique story.
Honoring Number 11, Ten Years On
In the early morning hours of All Saints Day 2014, a group of Gonzaga friends ran out of gas on the side of the Capital Beltway. While they awaited help, a car drifted from the road and collided with theirs. Dominik Pettey ’15, a beloved Gonzaga senior and star hockey player, died at the scene.
The funeral a week later had to be moved three times due to the anticipated crowds of mourners. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Northeast DC was packed with Dominik’s family, friends, the Gonzaga community, other area Catholic schools, hockey teams from Philadelphia and New York City, and countless others whose lives Dominik had touched. His parents, Pat and Magda, deeply felt the love of the Gonzaga community, and, in turn, found incredible strength to comfort Dominik’s friends and teammates.
“Dominik was the archetypal high school kid,” explains Father Stephen W. Planning, SJ, who was Gonzaga’s President at the time. “It touched a chord when he died. It was so deeply tragic, but also one of the most powerful experiences and outpouring of any community I’ve ever felt.”
In early 2015, Dominik’s uncle, Louis Pettey ’70, worked with school leadership and hockey coach Bill Slater to set up The Dominik L. Pettey ’15 Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund in his memory. The scholarship provides tuition assistance to students who could not otherwise afford to attend Gonzaga, with preference given to students from
DC’s Ward 8, home of Fort Dupont Ice Arena, where Dom played the game he loved so much.
That same year, the hockey program hosted its first Purple and White Game, an intersquad game played in Dominik’s memory and as a fundraiser for the scholarship. Thousands of gifts poured in, with many donations of $11 from students and friends, in honor of Dom’s hockey jersey number, which was retired by Gonzaga. “The fund was initially fueled by the hockey community, but a lot of alumni and others give, too,” says Dominik’s father, Pat. “It really bonded the whole school at the time. Dom was a very social kid and well-liked, so it touched a lot of people. Ten years later, they still haven’t forgotten.”
The Pettey Fund has been a true grassroots effort. More than $716,000 has been raised from 3,690 gifts, with a median gift amount of $111, and today, the current market value stands at $875,000. The fund has drawn, by far, more donors than any other fund in Gonzaga’s endowment. “People who never met Dominik have heard his story, called Gonzaga, and asked how they can give to this fund,” says David Dugan ’98, Gonzaga’s Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement. “In fact, the largest single gift to the fund was made by an alumnus who was so inspired by the story of Dominik and his family that he earmarked a sizable gift in his estate to the fund. He never met Dom. It’s truly extraordinary.”
Magda Pettey still marvels at the support. “The volume of people
mourning with us and saying goodbye to Dominik, that was the base of the huge number of donors now. It’s just a ripple effect,” she says. “God’s hand is in all of this.”
Pat and Magda haven’t missed a Purple and White Game since the first one was held in 2015. “We enjoy going every year,” Pat says. “My wife drops the ceremonial puck, and I bring it home, put tape around it and put the date on it, and I have them all stacked up on a shelf above Dominik’s bed. It’s very special to us, and it brings a real personal connection between our family and the new students at the school.”
Fr. Planning agrees. “It’s amazing to think that ten years later, that same kind of generosity is still being poured out, so that something good comes out of his senseless death that can continue to bring life. It’s a testament to Dominik himself, a testament to his wonderful family, and to the Gonzaga community. It ensures that the goodness that Dominik exuded during his life might continue to be felt in the lives of Gonzaga students for generations to come.”
Every fall, Pat and Magda Pettey attend the annual Purple White Game, which is played in memory and honor of their late son, Dom. They are pictured here at the 2023 game with Gonzaga President Father Joseph E. Lingan, SJ ’75.
Dominik Pettey ’15
Visionaries at a Crucial Moment
In 1989, a group of Gonzaga classmates celebrating their 40th reunion wanted to pool their resources and make a significant gift to their alma mater, which they knew was facing financial difficulties. These “49ers” as they are affectionately known, had gone on to prestigious colleges, law and medical schools, and had created wealth through successful careers and business acumen. They approached Father Bernard Dooley, SJ, Gonzaga’s President at the time, with their plan to create an endowed fund that would grow over time and eventually provide tuition assistance for deserving students.
While grateful, Father Dooley had immediate needs, including meeting payroll and keeping the lights on. He asked the group to give a current use gift instead. They pushed back. “We said, ‘Father, you’ll thank us later,’” remembers Don Mayhew ’49. “The longterm potential of our gift far outweighed paying the utility bills.”
The Class of 1949 Endowed Scholarship Fund was established
in 1989 with an initial commitment of $400,000. Since its creation, the classmates have added nearly $100,000, and today, through prudent management and stewardship, the fund is valued at $1.4 million, making it the largest class fund in Gonzaga’s overall endowment. Along the way, it has generated returns every year that have supported tuition assistance for deserving Gonzaga students.
“Compounding interest has allowed the fund to grow an extraordinary amount,” said Theodore Mariani ’49. “Our original vision of the fund living in perpetuity has been realized. Gonzaga is able to pull an annual harvest to provide scholarship funds while allowing the fund to grow and leaving the principal untouched.”
“People talk a lot about endowments now but very few people were focused on endowed giving in the late 1980s,” says Judge Jim Belson ’49. “But in our class, Tom Egan in particular had the vision to realize that in order to provide Gonzaga with a rock solid financial foundation for the future, we needed to grow
our endowment.”
Mayhew and Mariani returned to Eye Street this past May to celebrate their 75th reunion. They were delighted to learn that the gate between St. Aloysius Church and Cantwell Hall has been renamed the Alumni Gate in gratitude for the loyalty and devotion of the school’s alumni. Students walk through the gate on their way to graduation – passing through it for the last time as students before emerging from St. Aloysius Church as alumni.
A “Walk of Honor” approaching the gate has been inlaid with stones recognizing classes that have established endowed scholarship funds. In a prominent spot in the center of the walk, there is a stone that reads “Class of 1949 Scholarship.”
“They were the first to set up an endowed class fund at Gonzaga, and many younger classes have followed in their footsteps,” says Dave Dugan. “We are eternally grateful for their selfless leadership and example.”
Left: From left to right: Theodore Mariani, Judge Jim Belson, Tom Egan (seated), Don Mayhew, and Father Planning at the Class of 1949’s 70th Reunion in 2019. Right: A “Walk of Honor” approaching the gate has been inlaid with stones recognizing classes that have established endowed scholarship funds – including the Class of 1949.
Gonzaga has renamed the gate between St. Aloysius Church and Cantwell Hall the Alumni Gate in gratitude for the loyalty and devotion of our alumni.
Passing It On
Just over three years ago, Caleb Williams donned a white tux and joined his classmates from the Class of 2021 for their graduation ceremony in Saint Aloysius Church. Afterwards, Caleb celebrated with family and friends on Buchanan Field, the site of many of his notable athletic achievements. But for Caleb, upholding the Jesuit tradition of being a Man for and with Others is an equally important part of his legacy. It’s why he has chosen to give others a chance to excel on Eye Street, as he did.
The Caleb Williams ’21 Annual Scholarship Fund was established in 2023 through the Caleb Cares Foundation, a 501c3 public charity formed during the early days of his collegiate football career at the University of Oklahoma. The scholarship fully funds tuition for a Gonzaga Vinco Scholar from the Class of 2027 through graduation. A Class of 2028 scholar was added this fall, and an additional scholar will be added in both the 2029 and
2030 classes.
As a young teenager with great football potential, Caleb and his parents, Carl Williams and Dayna Price, were approached by many private high schools, many of which offered him a scholarship. The family was impressed by the community and spirit at Gonzaga, and knew it was worth every penny.
“Gonzaga just felt right,” explains Carl. “There was an interchange in the classroom, all the sports teams interacted with one another. Everyone was together, and the spirit of service that is ingrained in the students – for us, that was the thing that pushed it over the top.”
Caleb excelled with the football team at Gonzaga, and off the field, he was a great friend and role model to his classmates. “Caleb had a unique ability to be friends with all different types of young men,” says Dave Dugan. “He volunteered with the McKenna Center, and within the greater DC area. At
Caleb’s core, he’s humble, hard working and a gentleman, and has a deep appreciation for Gonzaga.”
After Caleb started the Caleb Cares Foundation, which focuses on eliminating bullying and empowering the underdog, he returned to Eye Street to celebrate its East Coast launch with a gala event in the Carmody Center. “He wanted to come back and do this at Gonzaga,” says Carl. “Seeing an underdog and giving them hope, seeing a need and trying to meet it – that’s what Gonzaga does for its students, and it’s what Caleb is trying to do, as well.”
Caleb’s sophomore season at the University of Southern California earned him the Heisman Trophy, and after his junior season at USC, he entered the 2024 NFL draft. He was chosen first overall and earned the starting quarterback position for the Chicago Bears, where he proudly wears jersey number 18, the same number he wore at Gonzaga and which the football program retired in 2023.
Yet with his astronomical rise through the rarefied air of professional sports, Caleb’s feet are still firmly planted on the ground, and his commitment to service and giving back has only grown.
“I’ve known Caleb since he was a freshman at Gonzaga and he was always just a sweet, happy kid,” says Patsy Mangas, P’18, Director of the Caleb Cares Foundation and longtime family friend. Together, they host events for hundreds of kids through Boys and Girls Clubs, the Washington Jesuit Academy and other organizations. “Caleb’s superpower is his kindness; he’s an incredibly nice person and he knows who he is.” Indeed, who he is was shaped in countless ways by his time on Eye Street.
“Caleb is a man for others because of Gonzaga,” says his mom, Dayna. “And Gonzaga is the reason why he’s so passionate about helping at this point in his life.”
Caleb and his Gonzaga friends remain close. “They’ve stayed together through their college experiences, they cheer for each other, they provide support for each other,” says Carl. “It’s a lifelong thing. If you’re a Gonzaga man, you’re a Gonzaga man forever.”
Caleb returned to Eye Street in May 2023 to launch the East Coast arm of his Caleb Cares Foundation. During his visit, he sang the Alma Mater with current students.
Caleb Williams ’21 with his parents, Carl Williams and Dayna Price, on the night he won the Heisman Trophy.
Lining the hallway outside Gonzaga’s Campus Ministry Office are recent photos of Kairos retreats, offering a small window into what awaits future participants. There are pictures of students sharing meals together, taking hikes through nature, journaling, praying, and watching colorful sunsets over the water.
The photo album from the Kairos that took place in March 2024 features something unique, though: birthday cake, balloons, and party hats to celebrate Gonzaga’s 175th Kairos Retreat. “Kairos has become such a pivotal part of the Gonzaga student experience that we thought a Kairos birthday party seemed fitting,” says Ms. Danielle Flood, Gonzaga’s Director of Campus Ministry.
Fr. Roger Callan S.J. was Headmaster of Gonzaga in 1982 when he heard about the Kairos retreat program at Loyola Academy in Wilmette, Illinois. Intrigued by the Loyola program, he enlisted Gonzaga’s Campus
Ministry Office with adapting Kairos for the young men of Eye Street.
The retreat was envisioned as a capstone of sorts to the comprehensive Campus Ministry retreat program, which in addition to Kairos now includes the Gonzaga Freshman Retreat, Sophomore Retreat, and the Senior Legacy Retreat. All of these experiences aim to allow students to encounter Christ's love through prayer, fellowship, and conversation.
Kairos – which means “time” –takes place over four days and is available only to upperclassmen.
The hope is that by the time a student attends Kairos, he has a
strong spiritual foundation that lends itself to answering the important questions Kairos puts forth.
Over the past 42 years, thousands of Gonzaga students have gone on the retreat and many of them remember it as one of the highlights of their time here. To commemorate this milestone, Gonzaga Magazine gathered reflections and recollections from alumni, former and current faculty members, and recent Kairos attendees. Their quotes, below, offer a beautiful portrait of what has become a central aspect of Gonzaga’s mission of forming young men for and with others.
“I knew after the first Kairos that there was something so deeply engaging about this experience; it was really unique in the depth that it touched people who were collectively inspired. Initially, I thought it might be like a honeymoon – you realize how much you are loved and it’s wonderful, but then it’s going to pass – but it didn’t. That’s the consistent experience and why it stays. Students come back and they’re so charged by the experience that they want to share it, and in sharing it, it becomes more embedded in oneself.”
–Fr. John Cecero, S.J.
“The power of Kairos is that it’s able to pierce the heart of those who are open to God’s love and friendship, and it stays with you. You walk away understanding that you’re worthy and valuable. I think that’s what Gonzaga does best - they make it ‘other’ centered so that you’re almost compelled to turn around and tell other people they’re worthy of God’s love and friendship.”
–Mr. John Cosgrove Former Director of Student Retreats
“During the course of each Kairos retreat, it was wonderful just to see the students change, how they grew in their faith. The change was very significant, it often lingered, and that was very encouraging.”
–The Late Mrs. Mary Ellen Whitcomb Former Director of Student Retreats
“I’ve found myself later in life leaning on and sifting through some things I still hold dear from my Kairos experience. When you have those things to lean on during times when you’ve forgotten the experience for a while or you’ve forgotten that feeling, it’s very gratifying.”
–Mr. Brian Egan ’86
“The special time on the Kairos retreat always makes me feel very close to God. And it brings a feeling of unbridled joy to witness that same feeling of closeness in our young men. I have been blessed to lead dozens of Kairos retreats. During those years, my own faith has been affirmed in ways too varied and numerous to describe. Miracles are commonplace on Kairos.
And Kairos makes commonplace events seem miraculous.”
–Mr.
Mark Howell ’73 Math Teacher
“Miracles are commonplace on Kairos. And Kairos makes commonplace events seem miraculous.”
“When seniors are welcomed back to campus in August each year, they are reminded that they will be setting the tone for the entire school. Each year their efforts, behaviors, and energies map a path for the entire student body. When seniors return from Kairos, there is a noticeable and positive ripple effect within the community. The generous spirit and feeling of community they return with has a beautiful impact in the classrooms, hallways, and sports fields on Eye Street.”
–Dr. Harry Rissetto ’89
Religion Teacher
“The retreat provides sacred space and time to examine one’s life and learn to recognize and appreciate God’s presence in every moment. The experience heightens one’s awareness of the love and goodness in the world. Participants return from the retreat energized and filled with gratitude. Kairos challenges
them to put their love into action and many are proactive in responding to this challenge when they return to campus and home. As a class's participation in the retreat increases, so too does their sense of community and fellowship (this is true for the faculty and staff as well). As this cycle continues, it galvanizes our students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni. Like a rising tide, Kairos lifts everything in our community up, and we all benefit from its spirit.”
–Mr.
Brendan Hartnett ’97
Religion Teacher
“The venue has changed, the weather may change, the menus have changed. But at the core of each Kairos retreat is God’s love for each of His Gonzaga sons and the love that the Gonzaga young men have for each other. Witnessing God’s love and sharing in the faith journey of the Gonzaga young men both on Kairos retreats and back on Eye Street has been
“As a Jesuit, I have been missioned to Gonzaga for three distinct assignments. Collectively, I have participated in 25 or so Kairos retreats. Honestly, it is difficult to express in a single statement the Kairos retreat experience. To one who is present to the experience, it is, in a word, graced! There is the grace of time off campus, of extended time away experiencing and enjoying the companionship of classmates and that of the retreat leaders (students, administrators, faculty, and staff). There is the grace of time spent becoming mindful of and reflecting upon God’s presence in one’s life and the various ways that God has been, and continues to be, present. Ultimately, I think Kairos is a Graced Time where one is offered the opportunity to grow as a person of faith,
one of God’s greatest gifts to me.”
–Mrs. Marilynn Kelley Science Teacher
love, and hope, and to become a more genuine Gonzaga Man.”
–Rev. Joseph E. Lingan, S.J. ’75 Gonzaga President
“It’s such a vital part of the formation of Gonzaga young men. You see their enthusiasm, faith and excitement. Kairos may be the first time that students experience God’s unconditional love in a tangible way. That’s the core and foundation of Kairos.”
–Mr. David Dugan ’98
Senior
Vice President of Alumni and Advancement
“I often think of the prayer attributed to Saint Oscar Romero: ‘We plant the seeds that will one day grow.’ The Kairos retreat simply plants seeds, providing one with insights and messages to pray on, sit with, and eventually, decide how they want to live out. God’s grace and the effect of Kairos looks different for each
of us, and what beauty there is in that. We oftentimes see students come back more loving, compassionate, and ready to lead within the Eye Street community. It is one of those programs that keeps Gonzaga turning.”
–Ms. Danielle Flood Director of Campus Ministry
“Three of my closest friends and I ended up on the same Kairos, so we got to experience some really special moments together. Because we all experienced the same loving moments, we got to see each other in a new light that fostered empathy with one another. I also made an entirely brand new friend. I had never spoken to him until the Kairos retreat, but during and after, our friendship blossomed. Even though we have now graduated, we still check on each other and update each other on the good news we both experience.”
–Jacques Sangwa ’24
“Never in my entire life has one week shaped who I want to be more than my Kairos retreat. I learned about myself, my classmates, and, most importantly, about my relationship with God. It wasn't just in prayer either; meals, rec time, and the various activities we took part in gave every one of us the opportunity to learn more about each other and about who God wants us to be. Overall, in my honest opinion, Kairos is an essential part of the Gonzaga experience. For me, the lessons learned and the relationships formed at Kairos truly coincide with the idea that a Gonzaga education lasts a lifetime.”
–Johnathan Watson ’25
Congratulations, Class of 2024!
During his Valedictorian speech, Hunter Cullina ’24 talked about the extraordinary growth he and his classmates experienced individually and collectively during their four years at Gonzaga. “When we arrived at Freshman Orientation, we had expectations for who we’d befriend, the activities we’d participate in, and even more we had expectations for the people that Gonzaga would shape us into,” he said. “Now, as we stand here today, I think we can all agree that our experiences, how we’ve grown, and what we’ve been able to accomplish have exceeded those visions that we had in our fresh-
men minds. Indeed, Gonzaga has helped us to grow in ways beyond what we even thought possible.”
Hunter was one of several speakers who addressed the Class of 2024 during their graduation ceremony on Sunday, June 2, in St. Aloysius Church. The graduation ceremony was Gonzaga’s 203rd and included the presentation of diplomas, musical performances, awards, recognition of the Jubilarian Class of 1974, and the Kohlmann Address, given by Virginia Congressman Don Beyer, an alumnus of the Gonzaga Class of 1968.
Well done and good luck, Class of 2024!
College Bound!
This fall, the Class of 2024 headed off to 102 different colleges and universities. Here’s a list of college matriculations – we wish them well on their next step!
Alvernia University (1)
American University (1)
Arizona State University (Tempe) (1)
Belmont Abbey College (1)
Bentley University (1)
Boston College (7)
Brown University (3)
Bucknell University (3)
Cape Fear Community College (1)
Carnegie Mellon University (1)
Catholic University of America (2)
Christopher Newport University (1)
Clemson University (3)
Coastal Carolina University (1)
Colby College (1)
Colgate University (2)
College of Charleston (4)
College of the Holy Cross (3)
Columbia University (2)
Cornell University (1)
Creighton University (1)
Dartmouth College (1)
Drexel University (1)
Duke University (2)
Fairfield University (11)
Florida State University (1)
Fordham University (2)
George Washington University (3)
Georgetown University (6)
Hobart and William Smith Colleges (1)
Howard University (3)
Indiana University (Bloomington) (9)
James Madison University (7)
Lehigh University (1)
Lincoln University (1)
Loyola University Chicago (1)
Loyola University Maryland (2)
Marquette University (1)
McGill University (1)
Merrimack College (1)
Miami University (Oxford) (1)
Morehouse College (3)
Mount St. Mary’s University (2)
New Jersey Institute of Technology (1)
New York University (2)
Northeastern University (1)
Northern Virginia
Community College (1)
Penn State University (University Park) (5)
Pomona College (1)
Princeton University (1)
Providence College (2)
Purdue University (3)
Rochester Institute of Technology (1)
Saint Joseph’s University (3)
Saint Louis University (1)
Spring Hill College (1)
Stetson University (1)
Syracuse University (4)
Temple University (3)
Texas A&M University (1)
The Ohio State University (2)
The University of Alabama (3)
The University of Tennessee (Knoxville) (1)
The University of Texas at Austin (1)
The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (1)
Trinity College Dublin (1)
Tufts University (2)
Tulane University of Louisiana (2)
United States Military Academy at West Point (2)
United States Naval Academy (1)
University of Arizona (3)
University of Bonn Germany (1)
University of California (Berkeley) (3)
University of California (San Diego) (1)
University of Colorado Boulder (2)
University of Dayton (1)
University of Delaware (1)
University of Florida (2)
University of Georgia (3)
University of Kansas (1)
University of Kentucky (1)
University of Maryland (College Park) (5)
University of Massachusetts (Amherst) (1)
University of Miami (4)
University of Michigan (1)
University of Mississippi (1)
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (3)
University of Notre Dame (5)
University of Oregon (1)
University of Pennsylvania (1)
University of San Diego (1)
University of South Carolina (4)
University of Southern California (3)
University of Virginia (Charlottesville) (7)
University of Wisconsin (Madison) (1)
Villanova University (4)
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (11)
Wake Forest University (5)
Washington and Lee University (3)
William & Mary (4)
Williams College (1)
Xavier University (1)
Welcome Back!
Thank you to the many alumni who joined us on campus this spring to celebrate their 50th, 55th, 60th, 65th, 70th, and 75th reunions.
Alumni from the Classes of 1949, 1954, 1959, 1964 and 1969 joined us on Saturday, May 4 for their Golden Reunions. After Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel, alumni gathered for drinks in the Carmody Center lobby and then a seated dinner in the Arrupe Commons.
Row
Row
Don Mayhew (left) and Ted Mariani
Row 1 (left to right): Thomas Mather, John O’Neill, David Woll
Row 2 (left to right): Walter O’Brien, Robert Meehan, Richard Giuliani, Francis Dimond
Row 3 (left to right): John Adler, Gabe Smith, Joseph King
Row 1 (left to right): Glenn Slocum, James LoJacono, Robert Goodwin, Francis Klisch
Row 2 (left to right): John Leyes, Bob Murphy, Thomas Clark, Peter Kilcullen, John Kershenstein, Herbert Baker
Row 1 (left to right): W. Michael Carper, Greg Jennings, Daniel Maloney, Thomas Meyers, William Murphy
Row 2 (left to right): Joseph Dressel, James Kurtz, Henry Canaday, Charlie Morgan, Dennis Schaeffer, Alexander Zarechnak
Row 3 (left to right): Greg Wadden, Michael Smith, Joseph Rigutto, Mike Corrigan, Tim Wilmer, Michael Loftus, Ed Podalak
Row 1 (left to right): Jean Claude Amisal, Reginald Henry, James Payne, Tom Burton, James Stewart
2 (left to right): Philip Colella, Peter McKenna, Donald Evans, Rev. David Ungerleider, SJ, Rick Sladek, Chuck Miller, Michael Porter, Stephen McCarron
3 (left to right): John McDermott, Michael Belisle, Dan McGarry, Bill Jordan, Robert Schottler
As is Gonzaga’s tradition, the Class of 1974 joined us for a weekend of festivities to celebrate their 50th Reunion in June, including participating in the Class of 2024’s Commencement Exercises on Sunday, June 2nd. To read more about Commencement, please turn to page 30.
1. The entire class gathered for a photo before Friday evening’s dinner in the Arrupe Commons. 2., 3., 4. Classmates greeted each other with big smiles on Friday evening. 5., 6. Father Lingan celebrated Mass for the class in Our Lady’s Chapel before the graduation ceremony on Sunday morning. 7., 8. David Dugan ’98, Senior Vice President of Alumni and Advancement, and Byron Harper ’84, Director of Alumni Relations, led the procession of the Jubilarian class into St. Aloysius Church for the Commencement ceremony. 9. The Class of 1974 stands to be recognized during the graduation ceremony.
1953
Robert Francis Murray has recently published a book called The Elegance of Nature Softly Carved in Soapstone. The book traces the history and subject matter of Chinese soapstone carvers and includes photos from the author’s collection of hundreds of soapstone pieces.
1959
The fourth novel by retired architect and author Tom Clark, titled The Storm, is now available on Amazon and Kindle.
1968
J. Michael Hannon founded Hannon Law Group in March 2006; he recently wound up that practice and will continue to practice under Hannon Law. Mike was recently awarded Advocate of the Year for his pro bono work representing Calusa Waterkeeper and other environmental watchdogs in litigation to prevent the City of Cape Coral from continuing to pollute the Caloosahatchee River and the Matlacha Pass Aquatic Preserve. Mike and Kathleen live on Matlacha, a small island community near Pine Island Sound and the Gulf of Mexico.
1969
Paul Candleana reached out to share a familiar sight he encountered while traveling in Italy: “Visited Cefalù, Sicily, and what do you know?” he said, “Gonzaga is everywhere.”
1970
In August, Dr. Bob Kulesher retired with the title of Professor Emeritus after 21 years at East Carolina University. His retirement was announced at the College of Allied Health Sciences Recognition ceremony in May.
1971
Reverend Renwick Bell has been appointed as the first Chaplain for PACE Florida (Programs of all inclusive care for the elderly) in South Florida based at Miami Jewish Health.
John Buckley recently received the 1978
2024 Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Credit Union League. This award celebrates a lifetime of achievement for those demonstrating exceptional dedication to the credit union industry over the course of their careers.
1984
Michael Park was honored with two
Emmy Awards at the 66th National Capital Chesapeake Emmy Awards. Both projects were for the Virginia Department of Corrections. The first Emmy was in the Crime/Justice Long Form Content category for “The Victim Impact Program” video. The second Emmy was in the Societal Concerns - Short Form Content for “The Virginia Department of Corrections Presents One Pill Can Kill.” This was the 3rd and 4th Emmy that Michael has won since forming Bookend Creative five years ago.
1994
Jeffery Clay received the Homicide Detective of the Year Award from the Metropolitan Police Department in a ceremony at the University of the District of Columbia on May 30.
1995
Christopher Warren was recently highlighted in the Dartmouth Alumni
Top Left: Paul Candleana ’69 in Cefalù, Sicily. Middle Left: Christopher Warren ’95, a leader in the emerging field of “computational bibliography.”
Bottom Left: Dr. Bob Kulesher ’70. Right: Jeffery Clay ’94 named DC Homicide Detective of the Year.
Top: Duante’ Abercrombie ’05, first head coach of the Tennessee State University hockey program, showed off the team’s brand new jersey design. Go Tigers! [Photo credit: Tennessee State University]
Bottom Right: Phil Boland ’00 and family welcomed baby Margaret.
Magazine for his work as a pioneer in the emerging field of “computational bibliography.” An English professor at Carnegie Mellon University, Chris does more than analyze literature, he studies its origins — how it actually got on the page, and who put it there. A former Gonzaga faculty member, Chris earned his doctorate in early modern literature from Oxford University.
2000
Phil Boland and Lauren DiPirro Boland (Holy Child ’03) welcomed a
girl, Margaret Quinn
in May. Maggie joins her older brother Jimmy and sister Shea.
2005
In April, Duante’ Abercrombie was hired as the first head coach of a hockey program at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). He will lead the newly created team at Tennessee State University in Nashville, which will begin play in the 2025-26 season.
Gonzaga Alumni Make History in NFL Draft
On April 25, former Gonzaga teammates Caleb Williams ’21 and Olu Fashanu ’20 were selected in the first round of the NFL Draft. Williams, who played for the University of Southern California and was the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, was selected first overall by the Chicago Bears and Fashanu from Penn State University was selected 11th overall by the New York Jets, making the pair the highest selections ever for high school teammates in the same NFL draft. “As a Gonzaga alumnus, I couldn’t be more proud that these two outstanding young men represent our school in such a positive way,” said Athletic Director Terry Kernan ’08. Gonzaga President Fr. Joseph Lingan, SJ, ’75 expressed his congratulations to both young men and their families. “A large community of Gonzaga alumni and fans will be cheering both of you on in your next step,” he declared. “As Gonzaga Eagles, we hope you continue to Fly High!”
baby
Boland,
Caleb Williams ’21
Olu Fashanu ’20
2008
Victor Farr married Giselle Gamero on October 7, 2023 in St. Al’s Church with a large contingent of Gonzaga alumni present for the happy event.
2010
Sammy Gerdano has been named Hockey Director for the Easton Ice Hawks travel program.
2011
‘Will’ Matthew Bowman, in April.
Nathan Thompson is both a PhD student and singer-songwriter who released his debut album The Valley in June with a headline show at Union Stage in DC. For more, search his artist profile on Spotify.
2013
Joshua Bak-Brevik recently graduated from Rutgers Law School. His sister Nikki proudly shared the news.
2012
In April, JJ Mitchell received the Gruenstein Award from The Diapason magazine. The award “recognizes excellence in scholarship and writing by a young person who has not reached their 35th birthday.” JJ’s winning essay, a cut of his dissertation about the Puget family, was published in two installments in the May and July 2024 issues of the magazine.
Matt Bowman and his wife Kara welcomed their first child, son William
Eagles in Africa
Henry Middlebrook ’18 and Michel Russo ’14 connected in Zambia earlier this year. Henry is a Peace Corps Volunteer in Zambia’s Western Province, serving as an English teacher at Yuka Primary School and working on public health, economic empowerment, and renewable energy initiatives. Michel completed a six-month assignment in Lusaka with an international nonprofit promoting education, economic empowerment, and health initiatives in Africa and Asia.
Top Left: Matt Bowman ’12 and his wife Kara welcomed son Will in April.
Top Right: JJ Mitchell ’13 in the loft at St. Al’s Church.
Bottom Left: Rutgers Law grad Joshua Bak-Brevik ’11.
Bottom Right: Victor Farr ’08 married Giselle Gamero in October 2023 in St. Al’s Church. Front row: Gus Montes de Oca ’01, Shane Elie ’08, Jimmy Ingram ’08, Victor Farr ’08, Devin O’Reilly ’08, Jimmy McGinnis ’08; Back row: Matt Preston ’06, Peter Carroccio ’08, Eamon Hanifin ’08, Chris Taylor ’08, Joe Johnson ’08, Doug Sarasin ’17.
2017
After spending the 2021-22 school year on Eye Street as a member of the Alumni Service Corps, Jack Kiyonaga moved to Molokai, Hawaii. He planned to do some writing and research on his paternal family history, and started writing for the local newspaper, The Molokai Dispatch; in August 2023, Jack became editorin-chief. “It’s been a kind of wild year figuring out how to run a local, weekly newspaper with a small staff,” he shared. “I’ve also done some freelance writing as well, especially with last summer’s wildfires on Maui.”
2020
Christian Ficca of the Georgetown Hoyas baseball team was named Big East Player of the Year at the close of the 2024 season. Over the 52-game season, the senior first baseman had a .362 average with 44 runs, 63 RBIs, 34 walks and 11 homers. Defensively, Chris registered a .975 fielding percentage with 371 putouts and 24 assists.
Champions of the Rink
Earlier this year, Walter Scheib ’06 and Mike Knetemann ’07 celebrated their men’s league hockey championship in Denver, Colorado. “The Gonzaga boys are still winning championships,” reports Walter, “It’s very cool to still be playing with a friend who I first played with at Gonzaga two decades ago!”
In June, Paul Kiyonaga led the Wesleyan crew team to an undefeated
season and their first ever DIII National Championship as captain of the team. The Wesleyan boat bested defending champ Williams College and Michael LesStrang ’22, by just two-tenths of a second. Congrats to both Gonzaga rowers!
In April, Jacques Pelletier, a 2024 graduate of Loyola Marymount University, captained the Lions Rugby team to their first Gold Coast Conference Championship since 2017. Jacques was also recognized on Loyola’s “Wall of Honor” by the Fred Kiesner Center for Entrepreneurship for his leadership and service to the community.
2022
In May, Nate Deegan and the Saint Mary’s (CA) Gaels Rugby defeated the Naval Academy to win the Men’s College Rugby Division 1A National Championship in Houston.
Mike Knetemann ‘07 (left) and Walter Scheib ‘06
Left: Wesleyan crew captain Paul Kiyonaga ’20 celebrated the team’s national championship win with his dad.
Right: Nate Deegan ’22 with the Saint Mary’s (CA) Gaels Rugby 1A National Championship trophy in Houston.
In June, NC State swimmer JT Ewing earned Olympic trials qualification marks in the 100m and 200m backstroke. He finished 17th of 77 in the 200m, and in the 100m, finished 35th of 77 with a lifetime best time of 55:37.
2023
William and Mary swimmer Aiden Bond set two freshman school records for the Tribe and qualified for the Olympic trials in the 50m free with a lifetime best time of 22.60.
Back on the Pitch
Two varsity Soccer alumni, Jeff Barnes ’95 (blue shirt) and Chris Wilson ’96 (gray sweatshirt), reunited in May for a Maryland State Cup semifinal match between their sons’ respective teams. Jeff’s son Will plays for FC Frederick ’09 and Chris’s son Ryan plays for Total Football ’09. Also in attendance were their grandparents and former faculty members Bill Wilson (Counselor, Athletic HOF Member) and Bill Barnes (Math teacher and Tennis coach). Chris and Jeff wish the best of luck to Coach Waller and the Varsity Soccer team for the 2024 season.
JT Ewing ’22 earned Olympic trials qualification marks in the 100m and 200m backstroke.
Top: Jeff Barnes ’95 (second from left) and Chris Wilson ’96 (second from right) celebrate the next generation of family soccer players.
Bottom: Former Gonzaga faculty members Mr. Bill Wilson (left) and Mr. Bill Barnes (right) reunite to cheer on their grandsons.
Roche Brothers Raise the Banner in France
Brothers Sean Roche ’96 and Cullen Roche ’99 rode the final two legs of the Tour de France route before the ‘real’ cyclists took over two days later. But the Roches hoisted a familiar banner at the finish line in Nice on Sunday, July 21, to make all of Eye Street proud. Said their mom Toni, “Gonzaga truly is everywhere, ever proudly.”
Family Honor
On July 21, Zachary Barnes ’17, Lieutenant Junior Grade, United States Coast Guard swore in his younger brother Nicholas Barnes ’19 Ensign, United States Navy Reserves at the Thurgood Marshall Memorial in Annapolis, MD. Both young men were recipients of Gonzaga’s Barnes Award, which is presented each year to students distinguished for honor, humility, reliability, and deportment. Zachary and Nicholas credit Gonzaga and its emphasis on being Men for Others for their desire to serve in the military.
Cullen Roche ’99 (left) and Sean Roche ’96 (right) along the Tour de France route.
US Coast Guardsman Zachary Barnes ’17 (left) swears in his younger brother Nicholas Barnes ’19 (right)
Anna Elizabeth Amy, mother of Andres M. McAlister ’04 and Felipe McAlister ’07
Susan Armbrust, wife of Joseph W. ’61
Gabriel M. Arseneault ’05, brother of Aidan M. ’02
Gil Ascunce, father of Gil I. ’93 and Gabriel ’96
Cameron D. Beatley ’84
Margaret “Missy” Mary Braden, sister of Joseph G. Brazerol ’75, William F. Brazerol ’78 and Matthew Brazerol ’81
Richard C. Browne ’56, brother of James F. ’59; father of Richard C. Jr. ’81
Edward I. Burns ’45
John R. Calarco ’58
Keith W. Carpenter, Sr, father of Keith C. ’93
Floyd M. Celey ’57
Mary Beth Conrad, sister of Thomas W. Proctor ’64
Joan Cushing, sister of Vincent J. Jr. ’66, and David J. ’69
Morgan D. Delaney ’63, brother of Michael D. ’65, the late John J. ’50, and the late Martin D. III ’62; uncle of Thomas J. ’75, John J. Jr. ’76, and James A. ’80
George F. Demetrovits, father of Stephen J. ’81, father-in-law of the late James Ronan ’83; grandfather of James Ronan, V ’14; and uncle of Brian Caine ’92
Cynthia Dempsey, wife of former faculty member Joseph J., mother of Michael J. ’05, Kevin C. ’08 and Patrick S. ’12
Stephen M. Eble ’01, brother of Joseph M. ’00
Alan Elder Sr., father of Alan C. Jr. ’09 and Aaron M. ’15
Earle J. Esque ’55
John Fitzpatrick ’54
Patricia Green, mother of John A. ’76
William B. Giller ’59, brother of Michael J. ’61 and James G. ’62
Ed C. Gund, father of Austin J. ’11
Jerome B. Hergenreder ’79
William F. Hillyard ’48, brother of the late John F. ’46
Rev. James P. Holloway ’62
Barbara L. Kuttner, wife of Ludwig G. Kuttner ’52
Ludwig G. Kuttner ’52
Mary N. Leftwich, mother of George ’88
Michael A. Lemp, father of Patrick A. ’80
Joseph M. LoPresti, Jr. ’64
Dante S. Marinari, Jr. ’65
Veronica Mariani, wife of Theodore F. ’49
John A. Mazariegos ’74
Paul J. McGarvey ’50, father of Mark A. ’82, Matthew W. ’86, Neil ’90 and Joseph ’92
Richard McGrath ’47
Daniel J. McMahon, father of Christopher J. ’80 and Gregory J. ’84
Gloria J. Mitton, mother of John A. ’85
Eileen Monahan, mother of Timothy M. ’88; grandmother of Timothy C. ’15 and Declan M. ’23
Nicholas J. Morana ’43
Rosemary Murray, wife of Robert F. ’53
Paul J. Oberman ’59
Patricia A. O’Connor, mother of Patrick K. Cooper ’98 and Robert L. Cooper ’01
Robert E. O’Malley ’52, father of Justin T. ’87
William V. Ponds ’74, brother of Richard ’68 and the late Thomas C. ’75
F. Donald Queen ’48
Thomas G. Rocks ’60
Elizabeth F. Ruff, mother of Paul G. IV ’85 and Patrick M. ’87; grandmother of Paul G. V ’20
Robert M. Santucci ’68
Elizabeth Schoenecker, mother of Steven C. ’91 and John L. ’95
Patrick Scott ’87, father of Ryan P. ’26 and Aidan M. ’27
Joseph E. Seubert, ’48, brother of the late Robert A. ’51
Patricia Diane Shapiro, mother of Daniel J. ’02 and Adam G. ’06
Evelyn Soldano, wife of Matthew M. Soldano, Sr. ’61; sister-in-law of the late John Soldano ’65
Elizabeth L. Taglieri, mother of Matthew J. ’04, Stephen J. ’07, and Michael S. ’12
Elizabeth C. Thompson, mother of Charles C. ’88, Samuel ’93, and the late Owen ’90
James F. Tomsheck, father of Cullen P. ’14 and Ryan F. ’16
Roxi L. Topper, wife of Michael J. ’78
Joseph P. Tutt ’53
Marilyn A. Ungerleider, wife of James A. ’67, sister-in-law of Rev. David L., SJ ’69 and Gary A. ’70
Thomas M. Weeks, Jr., son of Thomas M., Sr. ’69
Helen B. White, wife of the late Thomas X. ’53
GONZAGA
COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL
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