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Fall 2009

H o ly C ro s s H i g h S c h o o l • O f f i c e o f I n s t i t u t i o n a l A d v a n c e m e n t • 2 0 3 . 5 7 4 . 5 4 2 2

HOLY CROSS HIGH SCHOOL

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From the President Dear Friends, I am pleased to inform you that Mrs. Margaret “Peggy” Leger was recently appointed the seventh Principal of Holy Cross High School. I am delighted that Mrs. Leger has accepted the offer to lead Holy Cross. We have worked together in administrative capacities for many years, and if there is anyone who knows what Holy Cross is all about, it is Peggy. She is well versed in all aspects of the school operation and we will not skip a beat in this transition.

On another note, I would also like to share some information with you on our 40th Anniversary Challenge. Last year’s annual giving campaign was the most successful in the history of the school. We had an increase in new donors and an increase in the average gift size. This was very encouraging for us given the current economic climate.

However despite this growth we did not meet the challenge. The good news is that our very generous benefactor matched our total and has agreed to match $100,000 for the 2009-2010 school fiscal year.

Brothers of Holy Cross Educators in the Faith Making God Known, Loved, and Served For information contact: Bro. Jonathan Beebe, CSC Director of Vocations holycrossvocations@earthlink.net www.holycrossbrothers.org

During these challenging times I am pleased to report that: • We had the lowest tuition increase in the past ten years.

• There was no reduction in the amount of financial aid awarded – although there is never enough to meet the need.

• We did not reduce faculty thus maintaining the integrity of class size.

• Our academic programs were not compromised in any way.

• Our outstanding athletic and cocurricular programs remain completely intact insuring that there continues to be something for everyone.

In short, an Education in the Holy Cross Tradition is alive and well. I believe this is testimony to the fact that you believe in Holy Cross and what we provide for our young men and women both in and out of the classroom. This cannot happen without your generosity.

I want to thank you for your support and hope that we can count on you as we pursue our quest for excellence in all we do.

Sincerely,

Inside This Issue: New Principal Appointed Educator of the Year Freshman Scholars Alumni Events Crusader Achievements

v

Upcoming Events: Open House Sunday, October 25, 2009 2:00 – 4:00 pm

v Entrance Exam Saturday, November 7, 2009 8:30 am – 12:00 pm

v Mothers’ Club Bazaar Saturday, November 14, 2009

v Thanksgiving Eve Liturgy Wednesday, November 25, 2009 7:00 pm

A Special Thank You to the Brothers of Holy Cross We would like to recognize and thank the Brothers of Holy Cross, Eastern Province, who sponsor our school, for their continued support of our efforts to provide an Education in the Holy Cross Tradition.

Their contributed services and

monetary donations, exceeding well over $2,000,000.00, enable us to fulfill our Mission of educating hearts and minds.

Our entire Holy Cross Community, past, present and future, benefit from this generosity and are most grateful.

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Vice President for Advancement Dear Fellow Alumni: It’s hard to believe that our alma mater is now over 40 years old. I am truly blessed to be a part of such a great community on a daily basis. In my capacity as the Alumni Director, I am in constant touch with alumni. Whether it’s a personal visit, an email, a letter or a phone call, I enjoy listening to them share their fond high school memories and the impact their Holy Cross experience has had on their lives. Many things have changed over the years at Holy Cross but one remains the same ~ the Mission, educating hearts and minds.

Many alumni, including myself, enroll their children here hoping they will have as enriching an experience as we did. Whether you have a child here or not, Holy Cross shaped you in some way and your support will provide that same opportunity for current and future students.

This year, it is my hope that each graduating class will increase its participation in the Holy Cross Fund. Your generosity will make that happen. Together, let’s continue the Tradition of Holy Cross.

The Holy Cross Fund This past year we celebrated our 40th Anniversary with a $250,000 Matching Gift Challenge. While we did not reach that goal, we did have the most successful Annual Fund ever. We raised just over $150,000 which was matched by an anonymous donor who has agreed to extend the match through this year. We will get another $100,000 toward this year’s Annual Fund once we’ve reached that amount. In total we will receive the quarter of a million dollar match over a two year span. This year we are hoping that each class will reach a 20% participation level making the Holy Cross Fund even more successful than last year and allowing us to continue to address issues of financial aid, capital improvements and curricular resources.

New Principal Appointed This past August, Mrs. Margaret “Peggy” Leger was appointed the seventh Principal of Holy Cross High School by Tim McDonald, President.

Mrs. Leger began her 29th year working at Holy Cross, having served in a number of different capacities during that time. In the fall of 1980, she was hired as a teacher in the Physical Education Department and coach of Cross Country and Track. She began her career in administration in 1982 as Assistant to the Director of Students, in addition to her teaching duties. In 1986, Mrs. Leger became the Assistant Principal/Director of Students

and continued in that position for twenty-two years. In the fall of 2008, she took on the role of Assistant Principal for Academic Life.

She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from Springfield College, and a Master’s degree in Secondary School Administration from Fairfield University. In addition to her teaching and administrative duties, Mrs. Leger is a member of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS), the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) and the ASCD (formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development).

In response to her appointment,

Mrs. Leger stated, “I am very appreciative for the opportunity to lead Holy Cross High School as Principal. We have a wonderful faculty and staff who are dedicated to preparing their students for success in life after high school. With the collective effort of our school community, I am confident we will continue to provide an excellent valuesbased Catholic education in a caring and nurturing environment.

As we move forward and face head on the challenges private education is presented with today, my experience at Holy Cross leads me to believe that not only will we meet these challenges but we will gain strength from them as we perpetuate our mission of cultivating the hearts and minds of young people to become responsible members of society.”

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Alumni Easter Egg Hunt Our annual Alumni Easter Egg Hunt was held on Saturday, April 4th. The crowd was entertained by Tom “T-Bone” Stankus as well as the Easter Bunny.

It was a fun time for the children, our Holy Cross student volunteers and the alumni who had a chance to catch up.

Reunion Dates: Class of 1979

Class of 1989

30 year Reunion October 10, 2009 Holy Cross High School

20 year Reunion November 28, 2009 Crowne Plaza, Southbury

Class of 1984

Class of 1998 and 1999

25 year Reunion November 7, 2009 Grand Oak Villa, Oakville

10 year Reunion October 17, 2009 Grand Oak Villa, Oakville

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Crusader Classic Scholarship Golf Tournament The 23rd annual Crusader Classic Scholarship Golf Tournament took place on Monday, June 22nd at the Country Club of Waterbury.

From its inception, this event has provided financial aid to young men and women who might otherwise not have the opportunity to attend Holy Cross.

Your participation makes a difference.

In the past 23 years over $500,000 in scholarships have been awarded.

Whether one plays golf or simply makes a contribution to the scholarship fund, support of this tournament clearly enhances the ability of Holy Cross to meet the demonstrated financial need of our students. Thank you to all who made this event a huge success – our sponsors, volunteers and golfers.

v The Green & Gold Gala v Our 40th anniversary celebration was held on Saturday, March 21, 2009 at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville.

Over 650 alumni, parents, faculty, and religious were in attendance.

Thank you to all who attended and/or sponsored the event. It was a tremendous success!

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New York City Alumni Reception

For the third consecutive year, an alumni reception was held in NYC. Several area alumni gathered at the New York Athletic Club in June to catch up with former classmates and make some new friends. It was a great way to end a year of reminiscing about our 40 years.

We thank all those who attended and look forward to seeing more of you at next year’s reception.

David Yurgaitis ’86 Memorial Scholarship

A Rich Tradition Do you know what Holy Cross teams have won State Championships?

Boys Basketball 1988 “LL”; 1995 “LL”; 2000 “L” Girls Basketball 2007 “L” From left to right: Randy Parent ’86, Michele Yurgaitis, Carson Yurgaitis (6), Chase Yurgaitis (11), Derek Yurgaitis ’87, Madison Yurgaitis (10), Maria Yurgaitis, Dr. David Yurgaitis, Pat Yurgaitis. ' "

The Yurgaitis family in conjunction with United Healthcare held the first annual David Yurgaitis ’86 Memorial Golf Tournament at Chippanee Golf Course on April 30, 2009. It was a great day of golf followed by dinner and a raffle. The money raised will be used to establish a scholarship at Holy Cross in memory of Dave. Anyone interested in making a contribution to this scholarship can send it directly to the Holy Cross Advancement Office.

Golf

1995 - Div. 2; 1996 - Div. 2

Cheerleading

“L”- 1991; 1992; 1994; 1995;

1996; 1998; 1999; 2001

“M” - 2000; 2001; 2002; 2003;

2004; 2006; 2007; 2009

Softball

1989 “LL”

Football

2006 “SS”

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Crusader Clippings Sports News Giampetruzzi named Head Football Coach Mike Giampetruzzi ’95, Assistant Principal at Holy Cross, was recently appointed the 5th head football coach in the history of the school, taking over from Mike Phelan who retired from that position at the end of the 2008 season.

Giampetruzzi, who has been teaching and coaching for 15 years, took over as Defensive Coordinator in 2004 after serving as Offensive Line Coach.

As a student, Coach Giampetruzzi played football and served as captain for Coach Jerry Ciarleglio.

After graduating from Holy Cross, he received his Bachelor’s Degree from Central Connecticut State University and his Master’s in Health Education

at Southern Connecticut State University.

Giampetruzzi stated, “I am honored to be the head football coach at Holy Cross after many years of being in the program as both a player and an assistant coach. My intention is that we remain extremely competitive, exhibit consistent sportsmanship, and have proper perspective while making participation an enjoyable high school experience for high school kids.”

Mike resides in Waterbury with his wife Daniela and their son Robert John (R.J.).

Holy Cross “Turkeys” Benefit Charity The Academy Award by putting in silver Nominations paid a coins or paper bills. visit to Holy Cross The winning team High School on April was the one with th 24 , in the form the most “positive of “Turkey Day.” points” determined Members of the by subtracting the Holy Cross student silver and paper body formed teams money from the to raise money for amount of pennies. the Leukemia and With a total of Lymphoma Society of four thousand Connecticut. More four hundred and than one hundred thirty-six points, Pirates of the Caribbean (Kneeling: Jessica Swift, Kaitlyn Ryan, students participated in the winner was and Erin Stevens. Standing: Dathis event. Each team the “Pirates of vid Mirabilio, John Stein, Patrick of 3 – 7 people chose a the Caribbean” Santopietro, and Rob Pagliaro) movie and dressed up team consisting of as characters in that movie. During David Mirabilio, John Stein, Patrick all lunches, students and faculty Santopietro, Jessica Swift, Kate participated in a Penny Wars Ryan, and Erin Stevens. The true competition where the school winner however was the Leukemia community showed their support and Lymphoma Society which of a team by putting pennies in a received a donation of more than team’s jar or “sabotaged” a team $300.00 from this year’s event.

Founders’ Week and the Haitian Health Foundation School Wide Service Project From March 16 through March 19, the Holy Cross community celebrated the legacy of our founders, Blessed Basil Moreau and St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, and commemorated our 40th anniversary during Founders’ Week 2009. The week began with Athletics Day on Monday, March 16. Fine Arts Day on Tuesday and Clubs and Classes Day on Wednesday followed. Founders’ Week concluded with Spirituality Day and our annual Founders’ Week Liturgy celebrated by Msgr.

Thomas Ginty. Founders’ Week activities included a class hallway decoration competition, an art show, performances by the cast of Barnum, Jazz Band, and Holy Cross choirs, special menus throughout the week, and special tributes to forty years “educating hearts and minds.”

The theme of Founders’ Week 2009 was “Un(ite)—It Takes Everyone.” Our second semester school wide service project benefiting the Haitian Health Foundation culminated during Founders’ Week and highlighted this theme. The Norwich, CT based Haitian Health Foundation provides food, medical supplies, and services to impoverished Haitians. Members of the student body, faculty, and administration traveled to Norwich on April 28, met with HHF Founders Dr. and Mrs. Jeremiah Lowney, and delivered many boxes of supplies donated by the Holy Cross community.

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Holy Cross Pilgrimage to Montreal students and adults to experience Holy Cross (Waterbury) the spirituality and commitment students had a special moment of Brother Andre and the on their pilgrimage. Montreal is Congregation of Holy Cross. also an important place for the During the course of the week in Sisters of the Congregation of Montreal, the participants visited Notre Dame. Their founder St. the sacred sites in Montreal, St. Marguerite Bourgeoys began her Joseph Oratory, the important work in Montreal in 1653. St. basilicas in the Marguerite’s daughters city and had an have worked at Holy opportunity to reflect Cross (Waterbury) on the spiritual since 1976 and their nature of a Holy commitment to the Cross education. An education of the young important part of this people of Waterbury reflection was the has enriched and Students approaching St. Joseph’s Oratory opportunity to share deepened the at the beginning of the Pilgrimage the special character commitment of of Holy Cross the Brothers. Our Holy Cross Pilgrims visiting the In July of 2009, five Holy Cross (Waterbury) within pilgrims had the special Shrine of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys seniors joined with students from the larger Holy Cross privilege of visiting (Katie Agati,Tania Wichlinski, other Holy Cross schools across family. The students the shrine of Saint Jess DiPietro, Cody Ciriello, Sean Buckley) the country to make a pilgrimage had time to talk with Marguerite at the to the Oratory of St. Joseph in each other, pray with Notre Dame de Bon Montreal, Canada. The Oratory each other and to learn how much Secour Chapel. While they visited, was established by Blessed they were alike even if they came they had the opportunity to offer Brother Andre, a brother of the from different parts of the country. prayers for the intercession of St. Congregation of Holy Cross. He Marguerite for their intentions A direct result of the pilgrimage dedicated himself to a devotion and the intentions of Holy Cross was the building of bonds of to Jesus, St. (Waterbury). friendship Joseph and amongst the The pilgrimage acted as a very Mary. As part many different special start to the seniors’ of the continuing students last year at Holy Cross. Their education of present. All experiences in Montreal, their Holy Cross in the students opportunity to share with other the history and were able to Holy Cross students and the mission of the understand a opportunity to pray together Congregation, Holy Cross has given a solid Holy Cross this pilgrimage education in foundation to their senior year.

Pilgrims visitng the Cathedral of Mary was established the light of The Pilgrimage will carry them Queen of the World in Montreal in 2000 to draw the efforts through the school year and students closer of people like Blessed Brother provide a path to face the future as to the ideals and goals of the Holy Andre and the brothers and well-rounded and strongly based Cross family. teachers who were on pilgrimage young adults trained in the spiritual This summer, seniors Katie Agati, with them. Pilgrimage 2009 and educational goals of The Jess DiPietro, Tania Wichlinski, offered a deepening of the faith Congregation of Holy Cross and its Sean Buckley and Cody Ciriello and understanding of all the founder Blessed Basil Moreau. joined with about 30 other participants.

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Holy Cross High School Announces Scholarship Recipients From Class of 2013 Mr. Timothy McDonald, President of Holy Cross High School, has announced the following students as Scholarship Recipients for the incoming Class of 2013 at Holy Cross High School.

William Ward has been awarded the Anniversary Scholarship, a full tuition Scholarship. William, son of Atty. and Mrs. William Ward of Torrington, attended St. Peter-St. Francis School in Torrington.

Rourke Phalon has been awarded $2,500 for earning one of the highest scores on the Holy Cross High School Entrance Exam.

Rourke, son of Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Phalon of Watertown, attended

St. John the Evangelist School in Watertown.

Lauren O’Loughlin has been awarded the Faculty Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $2,500. Lauren, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen O’Loughlin of Waterbury, attended St. Mary Magdalen School in Oakville.

Each year Holy Cross High School awards scholarships to deserving students of the incoming freshmen class based on high academic achievement (based on middle school grades and performance on the Entrance Exam), good character, recommendations and personal accomplishments. The

Left to right: Rourke Phalon, William Ward, Lauren O’Loughlin and Mr.Timothy McDonald, President

scholarships are renewed yearly on the condition that the student maintains at least a 90 average.

The Holy Cross High School faculty, staff and student body would like to congratulate all Scholarship Recipients and welcome them to our community!

Holy Cross Student Receives Prestigious Governor’s Scholars Award The Governor’s Scholars Committee of the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) selected a then Holy Cross High School junior as one of only thirty students in the state to receive the Governor’s Scholars of Connecticut Award for 2009.

Brian McNellis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Brian McNellis of Waterbury, was chosen from an entry pool of more than 135 of the top juniors in Connecticut’s high schools and was honored along with the other designees at the Governor’s Scholars Luncheon on May 21, 2009 at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington. At Holy Cross, Mr. McNellis has been a member of Student Theatre, Concert Choir, Crosstones (a capella group), Visions Literary Magazine and has qualified for the American Mathematics Competition. Brian has proven to be a valuable member of the

Holy Cross community by serving as a school representative at tour sessions, orientations and open house programs. He also tutors middle school students in several subject areas, is a member of the Alliance Francaise of Northwest Connecticut Concours de Francais 2009 and volunteers his time with a local Children’s Theatre program.

The CAS Governor’s Scholars Award Program is designed to recognize and honor academically talented students throughout the state. A committee of educators from throughout Connecticut selected thirty finalists from nominations submitted by the one hundred seventy-nine member high schools of CAS. Nominees were assigned a composite score based on Rank in Class, PSAT or SAT scores, CAPT scores and a student essay. Finalists receive a cash award, a plaque and the opportunity to enrich their

studies on a college campus before graduation.

The Governor’s Scholars Luncheon is sponsored by the Governor’s Scholars Committee of the Connecticut Association of Schools and Big Y Markets.

Car Raffle Congratulations to Mrs. Laura Dobler, the winner of the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt in this year’s car raffle. Many thanks to all who participated. Once again this was a successful fundraiser for Holy Cross and we are grateful, as always, for your continued support.

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2009 Spring Musical In May, the Holy Cross High School Student Theatre presented the musical comedy, Barnum. This production traced Bridgeport’s own PT Barnum on a tune-filled, circus cavalcade of a life from the “Prince of Humbug” to the Ringmaster of The Greatest Show on Earth.

Barnum presented the fantastic life of showman PT Barnum through his triumphs

and failures, through his exhibits and endeavors against the background of the loving bond between Barnum and his ever-patient and loving wife, Charity. Barnum (played by Pat Mullen from Watertown) led us on a romp through his experiences as THE SHOWMAN of the 1800s. Along the way, we met his loving and skeptical wife,

Charity (played

by Vikki Thomas from Waterbury); his 160-year old first attraction, Joice Heth (Sarah Cantito from Waterbury); his most famous attraction, Tom Thumb (Patrick Downey from Torrington); and his “respectable” exhibit the soprano, Jenny Lind (Kaitlyn Bogue from Oxford).

We followed the exploits of the Prince of Humbug as he sold his vision of the world to the people of America; his belief is that “There’s a Sucker Born Every Minute” and it’s his job to keep them entertained. The story was kept together by two narrators, the Ringmaster (Chris Brown from Naugatuck) and the Blues Singer (Lianna Squillace from Torrington).

The cast was filled out with jugglers, tumblers, stilt walkers, marching bands, circus people and citizens of the great

United States all willing to be humbugged by the Greatest Showman alive.

Barnum was directed by Mr. Paul Whealon, a faculty member at Holy Cross, ably assisted by Mr. Ralph Cantito, Mrs. Peggy Johns and Mrs. Thelma Stepan. Choreography was created by Ms. Aimee McKirryher, vocal direction

by Ms. Marti Peterson and orchestral preparation was

by Mr. Joseph Jacovino, Jr. Technical and backstage responsibilities were handled

by Mr. Dennis Killian and his three student stage managersCarmichael Gugliotti (from Wolcott), Katharine Ryan (from Middlebury) and Paul Dente (from Wolcott). A mark of the professionalism that Holy Cross Student Theatre fosters is that 100% of the cast, orchestra and backstage personnel are students from Holy Cross.

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Holy Cross High School Receives the Children’s Community School’s Youth Helping Youth Award On April 28 at its annual scholarship dinner, Children’s Community School honored Holy Cross High School with its Youth Helping Youth Award, an award given in recognition of Holy Cross’ commitment to making a difference in the lives of “Waterbury’s neediest children” by providing “programs, tutoring, homework help, and performing community projects” for students at CCS. Students Erin Stevens, Angelica Ferrazzi, Timothy Bessette, Carl Miller, and Ashley Nguyen accepted the award on behalf of the Holy Cross student community, a

Jim Harris Retires Jim Harris retired last spring after 40 years of dedicated service to Holy Cross High School.

One of the original faculty members at Holy Cross teaching Physical Education, he was the first football coach and the first baseball coach at the school, laying the groundwork for the outstanding programs they are today.

In 1987 he left the teaching ranks to assume the responsibilities of the Director of Physical Plant as well as the moderator of the bookstore.

He held both positions until his retirement.

This past June, Jim was honored at a testimonial by his family, colleagues, and friends.

I am sure you all join us in wishing Jim a happy, healthy, and well deserved retirement.

community dedicated to serving as “role models who foster a positive educational experience for CCS students.”

At the dinner held at the Pontelandolfo Community Club, Holy Cross faculty members James Carroll, Ann Estrada, Caroline Flaminio, Kerry Heverling, and Martha Giammatteo also received citations from the Honorable Christopher Murphy in recognition of their efforts mentoring service projects, clubs, and programs at CCS including the Thanksgiving Basket and Giving Tree schoolwide service projects, the Helping

NBA player Ryan Gomes and dinner keynote meets Holy Cross students Carl Miller, Erin Stevens, Angelica Ferrazzi, and Timothy Bessette.

Hands Club, and the Holy Cross Service class.

Dinner guests included NBA player Ryan Gomes, who gave the keynote address, and members of the CCS Board of Directors past and present.

CPR at Holy Cross High School Holy Cross’ Physical Education and Health department is going into its seventh year of the American Heart Association’s CPR in Schools program.

It all started with the community and financial support of St. Mary’s Hospital and the Waterbury Ambulance Association. Thanks to Dr. Steve Holland of St. Mary’s Hospital this program is viable and continues to grow. He has acquired grants over the years to provide additional CPR manikins (both infant and adult), an AED trainer and the daily materials needed to run the course. Each year St. Mary’s has also made a commitment to the program that insures we have enough CPR books to use as a resource with the students. In addition, the training of the Health and PE staff has been provided through St. Mary’s and the Campion Ambulance group. For the past three years, the American Heart Association (AHA) has also given us a grant which has allowed us to provide each sophomore that we train with a kit to bring home and train members of their family as well as their friends.

Since this program started at Holy Cross approximately 1,200 students, teachers and coaches have been trained. Nearly eightyfive percent of this number chooses to become certified in CPR for two years by the AHA. When one adds in the kits that the students take home to train family and friends, the number in the Holy Cross community who have had exposure to CPR training approaches 2,400 people over the last six years.

By January 2010, three quarters of the school population will have been trained in CPR. In addition to the four Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) located around the building, Holy Cross is in good hands when it comes to first response to a heart attack situation.

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Holy Cross Conference for Student Leaders Holy Cross students States, workshops in Michelle Renna, Brian service learning, and a McNellis, John Pham, and pilgrimage to nearby Emilie Terhaar and faculty Notre Dame University. members Caroline Flaminio Off campus activities and Martha Giammatteo included a day spent in along with students and community service at faculty from five other Habitat for Humanity and schools sponsored by Catholic Worker House the Congregation of and evening outings to a Holy Cross attended the South Bend Silver Hawks third annual Holy Cross game and the South Bend Holy Cross College, Notre Dame Indiana was the site of the Holy Cross Conference for Student Chocolate Factory. The Conference for Student Leaders held from July 15-19. Among the forty Leaders at Holy Cross students and faculty attending the conference were six participants from conference ended with Holy Cross High School.

College in Notre Dame, students discussing ways Indiana on July 15-19th. they planned to implement all they had learned in their schools.

The goal of the conference was to educate student leaders in the heritage “We gained a new understanding of the and mission of Holy Cross to prepare history and tradition of Holy Cross— them to become Holy Cross leaders the education of the heart and of the in their schools. Among the many on mind—and what it means to be not only campus activities were team-building a member of our Holy Cross community exercises, meetings with retired but also a Holy Cross leader,” said Brian Brothers, daily prayer and reflection, presentations McNellis, National Honor Society President and about the history of the Congregation in the United conference participant.

Educator of the Year Sr. Patricia Jamele, CND was selected as Holy Cross’ Educator of the Year for the 2008 – 2009 school year. Nominated by her colleagues and selected by the administration, the Educator of the Year Award is based on the exhibition of Holy Cross Mission effectiveness along with quality performance as a teacher/educator. Any teacher, guidance counselor, or program director who has served Holy Cross for a minimum of four years is eligible for nomination.

Sr. Pat, a Waterbury native, graduated from Waterbury Catholic High School and after attending Central Connecticut State University for one year she joined her religious community, the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal. She received her BA from St. John’s University and an MS of Ed in English and one in Counseling from Southern Connecticut State University.

Sr. Pat has taught at schools in Maine, Rhode Island, and Illinois. In 1974, she returned to her hometown to teach at Waterbury Catholic High School.

When that school merged with Holy Cross the following year Sr. Pat joined the Holy Cross family, first as an English teacher and then as a guidance counselor. She has been a member of the Holy Cross faculty for thirty-five years.

The many years spent at Holy Cross are an indication of the joy, peace, fulfillment, and professional growth that she has experienced here.

Sr. Pat has always found her students to be a deep source of happiness. She is grateful for her religious community and the grace of a religious vocation.

This coming year Sr. Pat will celebrate a golden jubilee, which means fifty years of religious life in her congregation.

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Commencement On Sunday, May 31, 2009, 195 students participated in the 38th Commencement Exercises of Holy Cross High School. Of that number 190 students went on to further their education – with 90% of those students going to four year colleges and universities.

The class of 2009 acquired over $2.4 million in scholarships and grants from colleges and universities.

In addition to being a high achieving class it also was a class that spread its wings as students went off to schools in states such as Hawaii, California, Texas, North Carolina and Florida. Many of our students’ final school choices are based on financial/scholarship packages.

The following Special Awards were presented at Graduation: The Valedictorian Award was presented to Ashley Nguyen for maintaining the highest grade point average during her four years at Holy Cross. Ashley is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Diep Nguyen of Naugatuck, CT. Ashley is a graduate of St. Francis of Assisi School in Naugatuck. She is attending Boston College.

The Salutatorian Award was presented to Kyle Humphrey for maintaining the second highest grade point average during his four years at Holy Cross. Kyle is the son of Mrs. Karen Griffin of Watertown. He is a graduate of Long River Middle School in Prospect and is attending Boston College.

The Sister Margaret Bannon, CND Service Award is presented annually to the senior girl who has demonstrated

outstanding service to the school community. Erin Stevens was the recipient of this award. Erin Class of 2009 ~ College Acceptances is the daughter of Atty. & Mrs. Adelphi University Mount St. Mary College William Stevens of Watertown.

Albertus Magnus College Naugatuck Valley Comm College She is a graduate of Swift Middle American International College New England College New York University Anna Maria College School in Watertown and is Newbury College Arizona State University Nichols College Army attending St. Michael’s College.

Northeastern University Assumption College Northwood University Ave Maria University The Holy Cross Fathers’ Norwich University Baypath College Club Award is given each Nyack College Becker College NYU Polytech Boston College year to the senior boy who has Ohio State University Boston University demonstrated the most service Pace University Briarwood College Penn State University Bryant University to the school community. The Post University Cazenovia College award was presented this year to Central CT State University Pratt Institute Providence College Champlain College Kyle Nigro, son of Mr. & Mrs. Quinnipiac University Chestnut Hill College Kenneth Nigro of Waterbury.

Regis College Coastal Carolina University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Colby Sawyer College He is a graduate of St. John the Rider University College of St. Rose Evangelist School in Watertown Roger Williams Concord University and is attending St. Edward’s Sacred Heart University Connecticut College Salve Regina University CT Culinary Institute University in Austin, TX. Seton Hall University Curry College CW Post Long Island University Siena College The Holy Cross Mothers’ Simmons College DePaul University Club Award is presented Dominican College Southern CT State University Drew University Springfield College annually to the senior boy who Drexel University St. Edward’s University has demonstrated the most Duquesne University St. John’s University East Carolina University St. Joseph College academic improvement from East Tennessee State University Stonehill College freshman to senior year. This Eastern CT State University Stonybrook University Elmira College Suffolk College year’s recipient was Ghazi Elon College SUNY-Binghamton Khan, son of Mr. & Mrs. Talib Endicott College SUNY-Purchase Fairfield University Syracuse University Khan of Waterbury. He is a Fisher College Trinity College graduate of West Side Middle Fordham University UCONN Franklin Pierce College University of Bridgeport School in Waterbury and is Gannon University University of Dallas attending Central Connecticut Gordon College University of Delaware Hendrix College University of Hartford State University.

Hofstra University University of Hawaii Iona College University of Maine The Monsignor Henry E. Ithaca College University of Maryland Flanagan Award is presented James Madison College University of Massachusetts Johnson & Wales University of Miami each year to the female student Keene State College University of New England who has improved the most Kings College University of New Haven Lasell College University of North Carolina academically from freshman to Lebanon Valley College University of Rhode Island senior year. This award was Loyola University University of Tampa University of Vermont presented to Nicole Cappella, Lyndon State College Manhattan College Ursinus College daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Manhattanville College Villanova University Wagner College Cappella of Waterbury. She is a Marist College Marquette University Washington College graduate of Blessed Sacrament Marymount Manhattan Wentworth Institute of Technology Marywood University West Point School and is attending the Massachusetts College of Western CT State University University of Connecticut, Pharmacy Western New England College Merrimack College Westfield State University Waterbury.

Montclair State University Moravian College Mount Ida College

Wilkes University Worcester Polytechnic Institute York College

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Alumni News Alumni News Publishing Policies To be considered for publication, the Advancement Office must be able to verify that you are a graduate of Holy Cross High School. Alumni News submissions are accepted from, but not limited to the following sources: press releases, e-mail and our website ‘Contact Us’ page. Holy Cross High School has the exclusive authority to reject any Alumni News submissions not in alignment with the spiritual and religious character of the school. The Holy Cross Advancement Office retains the exclusive right to edit any material submitted for publishing in the Alumni News. All Alumni News submissions will appear in both the Advancement Newsletter – CROSS Words and on the Website www.holycrosshs-ct.com, unless otherwise requested by the sender. Requests to change information intended for publishing must be made by phone, e-mail or in writing to the Advancement Office. Any information to be published in the In Memoriam section must be verified by appropriate documentation.

Class Notes Class of 1980 Dan Lynch recently published a new book called “Google Your Family Tree”. The book is about using the internet as a tool for family history research (genealogy) and has received tremendous reviews. Dan resides in Trumbull, CT. Roy Van Buren completed the July 2008 Vermont 100 mile endurance run in 23:22:05, good for 52nd place out of 266 competitors. In September 2008 he completed the Angeles Crest 100 mile endurance run along the Pacific Coast Trail in Los Angeles in 32:29:40.

Class of 1982 Tom Begg, Sr. competed in the 2008 Ford Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.

Class of 1986 Cole Mills recently became the Vice President – Tax for C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc. in Keene, New Hampshire. Cole is responsible for overseeing the company’s entire tax function. Prior to joining CSWG, Cole was an adjunct professor in Widener University’s School of Business and ran the state tax group at AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, LP in Wilmington, Delaware. Cole and his wife, Martha, currently split their time between homes in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Keene, New Hampshire.

Class of 1992 John McCusker has become Sr. Vice President/Partner for Alpha Physician Search. Mr. McCusker’s diverse client base includes some of the country’s top hospitals and medical centers, foremost private physician groups, and emerging early stage practices. John has been in the physician search industry since 1997 and resides in Fairfield County, Connecticut.

Class of 1995 Christina Heise is currently a second grade teacher for Hernando County in Florida. She has a five year old son, Zechariah, and is still heavily involved with music through playing in her church and composing on the side.

Class of 1996 Nicole Polletta ran in the 33rd Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. with Team in Training and raised over $3,500 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s important work in finding cures for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and myeloma.

Nicole has been a long-time supporter of this program and has recently been accepted to run in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 1st to again help this great cause.

Class of 1998 Katherine (Ciriello) Clark has published a book titled, “Lucy Goosey Takes Responsibility”. The book is

Alumni News includes submissions received since the last newsletter.

If you would like to have a Class Note, Engagement, Marriage or Birth Announcement published in an upcoming newsletter please click on ‘Contact Us’ on our home page at www.holycrosshs-ct.com and submit your news.

written for 1st – 5th grade students and is a character education book about taking responsibility for oneself.

The story is about a young goose named Lucy who learns the hard way to be responsible in ways any child can relate to.

Class of 2000 Melissa (LaPointe) Taberna is a producer for News 12 Connecticut in Norwalk and won a New York Regional Emmy award on March 29, 2009 for Best Daytime Newscast.

Class of 2001 Andrew D. Beman-Cavallaro graduated on December 13, 2008 cum laude, from the University of South Florida in Tampa with a Master’s Degree in Library Science. In 2005, Andrew received his undergraduate degree in Geography from Florida State University in Tallahassee.

Class of 2002 Amy Lynn Calvo graduated in May from Quinnipiac School of Law with honors and a concentration in Family Law. Ryan P. MacNamara is currently Financial Coordinator and Creative Director for the Walt Disney Company, Worldwide Outreach in New York City.

Class of 2004 David Guerrera graduated magna cum laude from Fairfield University in 2008 with a major in Finance and minor in Accounting and Asian Studies.

He is currently living in Milwaukee,

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(Continued from page 14) Wisconsin and working for GE Healthcare as part of their Financial Management Program (FMP).

Class of 2005 Matt Stevens recently graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice. He will be pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs Print Reporting at American University in Washington D.C.

Class of 2007 Andrew Wells-Qu has been chosen for a second time as Athlete of the Week in the University Athletic Association, a league of 8 major universities. He competed in the league championships at New York University and at Division III Nationals in Terra Haute, Indiana.

Future Crusaders

Mike Puma ’88 and his wife, Suzanne, announce the birth of their second child, Bridget Grace, on November 29, 2008.

Jeffrey Natale ’89 and his wife, Karla, welcomed a baby girl, Chelsea Faith, on March 18, 2009.

Thomas M. Kennedy ’91 and his wife, Erin, announce the birth of their first child, Brayden Kyle, on June 20, 2009.

Bruce Padula ’92 and his wife, Rebecca, announce the birth of their son, Benjamin Michael, on November 6, 2008.

Dr. Jerome W. N. Salwierz ’92 and his wife, Ami, announce the birth of their second child, a daughter, Noelle Caroline, on December 23, 2008.

Cristin (Bauby) Traylor ’93 and her husband, Chris, announce the birth of their first child, Evan Kane, on July 6, 2009.

Jori (Hiestand) Sparry ’93 and her husband, Cory, welcomed the arrival of their third daughter, Ashby CJ, on October 6, 2008.

Jodie (LaCava) McGarrity ’93 and her husband, Ryan, announce the birth of their daughter, Reese Kimberly, on November 23, 2008.

Mary Ann (Macatol) Kumar ’93 and her husband, Sanjay, announce the birth of their third child, Maya, on June 16, 2008.

Josephine (Nocita) Gugliotti ’93 and her husband, Nick, announce the birth of their son, Nicholas Teodoro, on November 4, 2008.

Alan Greggis ’94 and his wife, Chrissy, announce the birth of their second child, Owen Alan, on August 10, 2009.

Jason Malagutti ’94 and his wife, Melissa, welcomed their first child, Makayla Rose, on March 19, 2009.

Kenneth Colson ’95 and his wife, Leila (Noujaim) Colson ’03, announce the birth of their daughter, Mya Olivia, on May 23, 2009.

Gregory Duch ’95 and his wife, Kara, welcomed their first child, Lawton Stephen, on October 21, 2008.

Megen (Nardello) Groski ’95 and her husband, Matthew, announce the birth of their daughter, Stella Grace, on July 16, 2008.

Carla Rebelo-Kasarda ’95 and her husband, Scott, welcomed their second son, Austin Antonio, on November 30, 2008.

Melissa (Ryan) Kellogg ’95 and her husband, Dameon, welcomed their second child, Madelyn Elizabeth, on May 7, 2008.

Steven Azzara ’96 and his wife, Meghan, announce the birth of their son, Michael Steven, on February 19, 2009.

Ailee (Goldsmith) Drown ’96 and her husband, Martin, welcomed their second son, Colby Allen, on August 27, 2008.

Timothy J. Landry ’96 and his wife, Laura, announce the birth of their first child, Kadyn Joshua, on April 21, 2009.

Izabela (Debkiewicz) Karbassi ’97 and her husband, John, are happy to announce the birth of their son, Darius Maximilian, on May 29, 2008.

Corry (LePage) Fraser ’97 and her husband, Rob, announce the birth of their daughter, Jocelyn Joyce, on April 9, 2009.

Bill Horrigan ’97 and his wife, Diana (Pelosi) Horrigan ’97, announce the birth of their daughter, Allison Merryl, on January 22, 2009.

Jennifer Rondinara ’97 and her husband, Italo Solla, welcomed their first child, David Michael, on September 15, 2008.

Darci (Mancini) O’Brien ’98 and her husband, Kevin, welcomed their first child, a daughter, Molly Grace, on February 6, 2009.

Ryan Zainc ’00 and his wife, Tammie (Gilbert) Zainc ’00, are happy to announce the birth of their daughter, Leah Grace, on November 3, 2008.

Melissa Sauvageau-Green ’03 and her husband, Doug, are happy to announce the birth of their first son, Douglas Gregory, on November 13, 2008.

Weddings Judith Martin ’79 to Richard O’Neil on June 6, 2009.

Anthony J. Montagano, Jr. ’86 to Colleen Razza ’91, on July 3, 2009.

Jeremy Marzella ’88 to Dawn Taylor-Maher on November 15, 2008.

Scott Matthews ’90 to Lori Dorsch on October 10, 2008.

Patrick J. Cooney ’91 to Christine Pollio on September 27, 2008.

Brian Cleary ’93 to Shawna Howard ’95, on April 25, 2009.

Laurie Perigard ’94 to Gary Chestone, Jr. on July 12, 2008.

Ronna Clement ’00 to Brian Reddington, on July 24, 2009.

Brooke Thomas ’00 to Joseph Raad, on August 21, 2009.

Jonica Yerzak ’00 to Marc Pagnucco on March 21, 2009.

Rinal Gandhi ’01 to Shashin Gandhi on May 31, 2009.

David McKenzie ’01 to Kim Grimes on August 8, 2009.

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Holy Cross Student Council Earns “Gold Honor School” Award Holy Cross High School’s Student Council has earned the 2009 CAS “Gold Honor School Award”.

The Connecticut Association of Schools and the State Leadership Board have developed this award to honor a school’s commitment to student leadership development. The designation of ‘Honor School’ is assigned to only those schools who meet definitive requirements with regards to student leadership development at the local, state, and national level.

At the CAS State Leadership Conference held March 20-21 at Wesleyan University, Holy Cross High School received the Gold Honor School designation.

Criteria for this award include

participation by members of Student Government in leadership conferences at the local and state levels. In addition, proof of inschool and NVL league-sponsored leadership development programs must be in place. Students at a “Gold Honor School” must routinely be involved in student governance and school-wide service projects. Another award requirement is that Holy Cross students must have presented workshops at the state and regional level to groups of their peers.

In addition to the Gold Honor School award received by the Holy Cross, Erin Stevens ’09 of Watertown received the Dale

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Engagements Marisa Cesare ’86 to Pete Seaman, an October 10, 2009 wedding is planned.

Lindsey Atkas ’99 to Henry Ambroseo, an August 7, 2010 wedding is planned.

Angela Ingriselli ’99 to Michael Andrade, an October 11, 2009 wedding is planned.

Sgt. Kellie A. Noble ’00 to Kyle Sharpe, a September 2009 wedding is planned.

Marc Dziezynski ’01 to Jessica Hoff ’02, a July 2010 wedding is planned.

Ryan P. MacNamara ’02 to Amy Lynn Calvo ’02, a December 2010 wedding is planned.

D. Hawley Memorial Leadership Award at the Wesleyan conference. This statewide honor is presented annually in recognition of outstanding service and leadership at the State level.

Erin, the 2008-2009 Holy Cross High School Student Government President, was a four-year member of the Holy Cross Student Council, and served on the State Student Advisory Council on Education. Erin is also the recipient of the Office of the Secretary of State Twelfth Grade Excellence in Citizenship Award, an award given in recognition of academic excellence and active participation in civic and community activities.

In Memoriam Please remember all our deceased alumni but in particular those listed below. We extend our deepest sympathy to the families and friends of these recently departed members of our Holy Cross Community.

William N. Lorusso ’73 Kevin G. Carroll ’74 Joseph L. Cancellaro, Jr. ’75 Florentina Resso Godin ’81 Laura Pettinico Lawson ’84 Mark D. Mariani ’87 Jon P. Vastola ’00 Robert N. Yerzak ’02 Maurice Shugrue IV ’03