Four State Championships | Meet the Admissions Team | Remembering Dooky Chase III ’67
JAYNOTES | SPRING / SUMMER 2025
JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
President
Fr. John Brown, S.J.
Director of Institutional Advancement
Christian Bautista ’06
Director of Alumni Affairs
Michael Prados ’83
Executive Development Coordinator
Krista Roeling
Creative Director
Brittany Donnes
Communication Specialist
Melissa Jurisich
Senior Development Officer
Jean-Paul Perrilliat ’03
Volunteer & Events Coordinators
Maura Owers
Cindy Wooderson
Major Gifts Coordinator
Jamie Roy
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Christian Bautista ’06
Brittany Donnes
Peter Flores ’09
Melissa Jurisich
Jacob Reeder ’19
STAFF CONTRIBUTORS & EDITORS
Christian Bautista ’06
Brittany Donnes
Melissa Jurisich
Maura Owers
STAFF DESIGNER
Brittany Donnes ON THE COVER:
Seniors Charles Pullen and Alejandro Salazar share a joyful moment after Commencement Exercises ceremony at the Pontchartrain Center on Thursday, May 23, 2024, celebrating alongside 230 fellow Blue Jays.
Glorifying God Beyond Graduation
Rev. John Brown, S.J., to the Jesuit High School graduates of the Class of 2025:
On behalf of everyone here, please accept my hearty and well-earned congratulations. Your families, teachers, friends, and supporters couldn’t be prouder of you. A popular slogan we often hear is, “we are…whatever.” We are Penn State, we are Spartans, we are SC. It’s a bit overused, and in many cases, it’s drained of its real meaning. So we don’t say it much around Jesuit, but we certainly could. “We are Jesuit.” That would point to the belief that our history, our philosophy, our hard work, our very selves make up what we call Jesuit High School. But today, your big graduation day, you are expanding who you are.
You’re going out into the world, into America, as genuine agents in a democratic republic where your voice will count in ways that it hasn’t up until now. I’m happy to testify to the fact that you are ready in ways you weren’t when you were five years younger. But your age is not the only thing that makes you ready or makes your voice worth hearing or a force for good amidst the cacophony of voices out there only armed with the notion that “we are America” without a truly tested understanding of that profound fact. I hope you feel for yourselves why you are ready.
When we say go out and make the world a better place, we mean begin the hard work of seeing our broader society, America, and the hard work of reflecting on it, and then the hard work of orienting it properly. Your experience of Jesuit’s governance has
been one rooted in the Catholic faith and tradition, but speaking of this new broader America, you are now becoming a full-fledged member of “how will we make the world a better place.” And by we, I mean you, too now.
The slogan, “we are America,” seems hopeful on a night like tonight because we know that our society depends on the character, intelligence, and education of its members at this specific time and our faith too. I’m convinced the cream of the crop is here tonight. I hope as you explore the world outside of Jesuit that you take note of the deeper differences between what you’ve known at Jesuit and what is out there in the rest of America. The differences that you will find go beyond the superficial differences between who is in charge or what is required of you regarding workload or uniforms or an unforgiving schedule.
When you take note of the differences between Jesuit and the world beyond Jesuit, do not get lulled into a false sense of security or superiority. Remain vigilant in your own examination of conscience, but also in your examination of our country’s conscience. Beware of sanctimonious pride in ourselves. If we are true sons of God and we are America, then we ought to be able to see that we are meant to be an ever increasingly faithful society, not just a society that tolerates our faith.
So what does that mean? For one, a truly faithful society will always consist of people whose conviction is communal before individual. I think you’ve learned to see that during your time at Jesuit, and it’s on full display right now as you put your class achievement ahead of your own personal accomplishment. Secondly, a truly faithful society should not be just the nicest upper-middle class but should include a broader spectrum of humanity with varied talents and levels of strength. You’ve pulled together as a class, cheering each
other on in a million different ways at morning assemblies, always following the phrase, “some results.” Bring that same attitude to the broader world.
Third, a faithful society never thinks of itself as having reached perfection. Even decisive victories over wicked enemies seem like nascent beginnings. Your constant striving for God’s greater glory at Jesuit should serve as a model for this. Finally, to create a more faithful society, wed yourselves to the truth. At Jesuit, you’ve discovered truth in nature, carrying on with or without you. You’ve seen it in math problems with stubborn solutions that you had to yield to regardless of your feelings. You’ve heard the truth expressed in a thousand varied literary forms, but still discernible as a manifestation of the one truth that is God Almighty, the Truth which governs all honest people. To create a more faithful society, do not let your grasp of the Truth grow slack.
What I’m trying to say is this: we are America, and we need a framework to integrate all of life’s challenges rather than just moving from one compromise to another. The political philosophy of a society derives its authorization from ethics, and ethics gets its authority from faith’s truth. Everyone here has worked hard to instill this in you, and you have mastered it according to what is proper for young men preparing for adulthood. Hang on to what you’ve gotten from Jesuit as part of who you really are. You will always be part of Jesuit, and Jesuit part of you. God willing, our present and our future will keep getting brighter as you seek to glorify God with the rest of your lives.
Congratulations, and may God bless you.
Fr. John Brown, S.J. President
CLASS OF 2025 BONDS that ENDURE
In this moment, the idea of Jesuit brotherhood is as tangible as ever. Take a look. You are looking at a class whose brotherhood has been uniquely nourished in the waters of adversity. In fact, 24 of us entered this world while the lower halls of Jesuit were under the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina. How fitting, almost comic, for us to endure a flood in the last month of classes. Floods disrupt, but disruption has made us rely on each other, has brought us close, has made us strong.
From the outside, Jesuit seems to be a place where success is the highest value. And our class has indeed achieved much success. You are looking at men who have felt the exhilaration of a brotherhood capped off with highest honors in our time here, in eight of the 14 varsity athletic programs, and in Mu Alpha Theta, mock trial, and band. Not to mention perfect ACTs and SATs, National Merit Scholars, and countless other accomplishments. Every victory stands as a testament to our determination and efforts. However, if you look within Jesuit’s hardened reputation for high standards, the true essence of our journey lies in the bonds we have formed along the way.
Through many struggles, including illnesses, difficult classes, long nights with little sleep, seemingly undefeatable opponents, and even hurricanes and COVID-19, we experienced the unique phenomenon that occurs during a crisis, in which
people are brought together. A sense of solidarity arises from shared experience of hardship, and people rally together. Jesuit’s floods have been our floods. But even Jesuit’s intensity itself has been a purifying flood, bringing out the best in us and bringing us closer together. We have gradually cultivated a priceless brotherhood of friendship that transcends any scoreboard. Our achievements are amazing, but in the end, it is the Jesuit brotherhood that will endure long after the final whistle has blown.
I started to understand this idea during our junior year, when our morality teacher, Coach Lamothe, showed us the movie It’s a Wonderful Life. At first, I thought it would be another boring black and white movie that would put me to sleep. And I won’t lie to you, it may have in the beginning. However, the movie began to captivate me, and one key scene stood out near the end of the movie.
The main character, George, has been mistakenly charged with the misappropriation of funds at his bank and cannot come up with the missing money. At the point of utter despair, his guardian angel helps him come to peace with his fate. When at the last second, the townspeople bring the funds together to free him, George’s guardian angel gives him a book with the inscription, “Remember, no man is a failure who has friends.” This embodies the Jesuit experience.
When I think about my best memories over the last five years,
most of them involved friends, random talks at the lunch table over the craziest what-ifs, late-night FaceTimes with friends, bonding over struggles with math, going to the gym with a friend, pushing each other to be better, playing video games for hours on end, and even random sentimental talks by the fire. Jesuit has nurtured these bonds and has transformed us.
Our English teacher, Mr. O’Neill, likes to use the analogy of dull knives being sharpened. As eighth graders, we were nervous about the new environment, fearful of an increased workload, and unaware of the powers of friendship. We have since become competent, conscientious, and compassionate men, resilient men of faith and men for others, thanks to our shared experiences.
This moment marks yet another transformation, our transition from the brotherhood of our class into the larger, rich brotherhood of alumni. Together, we will strive to uphold and enrich the legacy that defines us. This transformation is only possible thanks to our loving and supporting families, who have given us the opportunities to succeed. A special thanks goes to Jesuit’s hardworking faculty, who have provided us with many meaningful lessons about their own subject and life, and have pushed us to be exceptional.
For Mr. Powers and Mr. Stafford, who are retiring this year, your dedication to
VALEDICTORY ADDRESS
teaching has inspired us to think critically and shaped our academic journeys in profound ways. For Mr. Kernion, your leadership as principal has been a beacon of strength and support, and your commitment to our success and wellbeing has made us who we are today.
Congratulations, Class of 2024. This is an emotional moment in our lives. But as a wise figure once said, “Laugh now, cry later.” May our futures be filled with success, love, and lifelong friendship, always facing the floods of adversity, united in brotherhood.
Thank you.
DAVID A. PAUL class of 2024 valedictorian
David Paul gives the valedictory speech at the 2024 Commencement in the Pontchartrain Center.
SPECIAL COMMENDATIONS
Presented to the CLASS OF 2025
Each year Jesuit High School recognizes seniors and underclassmen who have achieved significant academic and athletic honors. Among the awards presented to members of the Class of 2025 were the following.
ACADEMIC & CO-CURRICULAR AWARDS
THE BLUE JAY PARENTS’ CLUB AWARD for excellence in scholarship is awarded to the senior who is graduating with the highest grade point average for four years at Jesuit High School. This year, the award was merited by Mason K. Becker, Charles E. Garitty, Jonathan Z. Jordan, Preston H. Kuehne, Brady J. Luminais , Kerth P. Metzinger, and David A. Paul.
The valedictorian for the Class of 2025, David A. Paul, celebrates with classmates.
THE SENIOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD | Being present for all classes, having obtained no absences, tardies, or early departures on a school day | Logan F. Uddo
THE ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA AWARD FOR THE MEMBER OF THE YEAR | NHS member who embodies the four pillars of the NHS: character, leadership, service, & scholarship | Corbyn H. Thonn
THE PROFESSOR MICHAEL CUPERO MEMORIAL AWARD (donated by Cupero’s grandson, Col. Hamil M. Cupero ’56) | Overall musical excellence | Mark A. Johnson
THE MCJROTC AWARD | MCJROTC senior cadet who made a significant contribution to the ROTC Program by having exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication | Noah M. Oliver
THE PHILELECTIC SOCIETY AWARD | For outstanding achievement in Dramatics | Albert U. Favalora
THE VINCENT LIBERTO AWARD | For second place in instrumental music | Mark A. Johnson
THE MOCK TRIAL AWARD | For outstanding leadership and achievement in Mock Trial | William T. Schibler
THE CULTURE OF LIFE AWARD | Exemplary leadership as a member of the JHS Pro-Life Club | Harrison R. Harley
THE SUSAN & GARIC SCHOEN AWARD | Excellence in computer studies | John C. Rose
THE REVEREND WILLIAM J. RYAN MEMORIAL AWARD (donated by the late Dr. J. Joseph Ryan in memory of his brother, Rev. William J. Ryan) | Excellence in social studies | Brady J. Luminais & Charles E. Garitty
THE JESUIT 500 CLUB AWARD | Excellence in Latin | Jonathan Z. Jordan
THE FRANK T. HOWARD MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in physics | Preston H. Kuehne
THE FRANK T. HOWARD MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in English | Charles E. Garitty
THE L’UNION FRANÇAIS AWARD | Excellence in French | Tate D. Dupré
THE WILLIAM HELIS MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in Greek | Charles E. Garitty
THE PAQUETTE FAMILY AWARD | Overall excellence in French | Corbyn H. Thonn
THE UBALDO TRELLES MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in Spanish | Harrison R. Harley
THE EXCELLENCE IN THEOLOGY AWARD | Charles E. Garitty
THE LOYOLA UNIVERSITY AWARD FOR MATHEMATICS | Highest overall average in mathematics | David A. Paul
AWARDS PRESENTED AT 2025 COMMENCEMENT
Luke A. Couret received the Julia Ferguson McEnerny Memorial Trophy, an award established to honor one graduating senior who possesses those qualities which symbolize “the most representative student of Jesuit High School.”
Joseph J. Barber received the Very Reverend Father Pedro Arrupe Award, which recognizes the senior who has exemplified the spirit of being a man for others by his participation and excellence in service.
Elliott J. Derbes received the Reverend Father President’s Spiritual Leadership Award, which is presented to the senior who has exerted the greatest spiritual influence on others by living a life exemplifying his Catholic faith.
ATHLETIC AWARDS
THE JOSEPH MICHAEL WORLEY MEMORIAL AWARD | Senior who, by his unselfishness, sportsmanship, and spirit, enhanced the athletic program either as a player, manager, trainer, or student | Luke A. Couret
THE WILLIAM D. & MAYBELLE POSTELL AWARD (donated by their son, John Blake Postell ’59) | Basketball player with exemplary leadership, scholarship, and spirit | Jude H. LaForge
THE RODRIGUEZ FAMILY AWARD | Most valuable varsity swimmer | Jack H. Primeaux
THE CHESTER M. RIETH AWARD | Track letterman with exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and spirit | Tanner R. Salsman
THE MOST VALUABLE GOLF PLAYER AWARD | Golf athlete who has made a significant contribution to the team, exhibited exemplary leadership, and outstanding tournament performance | Ryan J. Hollander
THE MICHAEL D. CONWAY AWARD | Most valuable player on the varsity soccer team | Larson N. Klibert
THE EDWIN F. STACY, JR. WRESTLING AWARD | Outstanding wrestler who excelled in academics and exhibited exemplary leadership | Jackson T. Calderaro
THE COACH EDWIN W. TORIBIO MEMORIAL AWARD | Senior football letterman who best combined scholarship and athletics | William T. Schibler
THE MORRIS B. REDMANN, JR. MEMORIAL AWARD | Outstanding football letterman with best combined scholarship and athletics | William W. Homes
THE DANIEL “RUSTY” STAUB MEMORIAL AWARD | Baseball letterman with exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and spirit | Everett B. Denny
THE MOST VALUABLE TENNIS PLAYER AWARD | Tennis athlete who exhibited exemplary leadership and outstanding tournament performance | Joshua T. Verges
THE MOST VALUABLE LACROSSE PLAYER AWARD | Senior lacrosse letterman who has exhibited exemplary leadership and having performed in an outstanding manner | Jack A. Sutherlin
THE MOST VALUABLE RUGBY PLAYER AWARD | Senior rugby letterman who has exhibited exemplary leadership and having performed in an outstanding manner | Gregory M. Lane
THE ROBERT T. CASEY MEMORIAL AWARD | Varsity athlete with exemplary sportsmanship and spirit | William T. Schibler
THE AWARD FOR ALL-AROUND ATHLETIC ABILITY | Most outstanding ability found in a student-athlete in an individual sport | Spencer M. Lanosga & Michael E. Vocke
THE LARRY GILBERT FAMILY MEMORIAL AWARD | Best all-around senior athlete on the varsity teams | Patrick J. Berrigan III & Jude H. LaForge
OFF THEY GO
Graduates of Jesuit High School’s Class of 2025 are moving on to 58 different institutions of higher learning. Universities or colleges listed in bold under the names of graduates are the institutions they are attending. Students accepted to that school’s honors program are indicated by an (H). The scholarships listed pertain only to that university or college which the graduate has indicated he will attend. Areas of intended study are included in a graph on page 11. Congratulations to Jesuit’s Class of 2025 The information in “Off They Go!” was compiled by Jesuit’s guidance department college counselors from data submitted online by seniors and their parents.
Jackson C. Adams
University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award
Christian J. Aertker
University of Alabama Foundation in Excellence Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship
John D. Alexander
University of Arkansas New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award
Parker L. Alig
Marquette University (H)
National Merit Finalist
MU National Merit Scholarship, Père Marquette Scholarship, Jesuit HS Marquette Tuition Scholarship, Magis Campus Resident Scholarship, Engineering Excellence Enhancement Scholarship
Zain R. Aslam
Tulane University
TOPS Performance Award
Brennan C. Aucoin
Louisiana State University
TOPS Honors Award
Miles J. Bacino
University of New Orleans
Lucas B. Ballay
Louisiana State University
TOPS Honors Award
Andre' Barahona
Loyola University Chicago Dean’s Scholarship, Jesuit Heritage Award
Joseph J. Barber
Louisiana Tech University
TOPS Opportunity Award
Max E. Bartlett
Case Western Reserve University
National Merit Finalist
University Scholarship
Oliver K. Beasley
University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship
Felein C. Beaulieu University of Louisiana Lafayette
Mason K. Becker
Georgetown University
National Merit Finalist
Brayden S. Bell
University of Alabama (H)
UA Scholar Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship
Gary L. Bell, Jr.
University of Mississippi
William J. Bellott
University of Iowa (H)
National Merit Finalist
UI National Merit Scholarship, Mu Alpha Theta Convention Scholarship, National Scholars Award, Provost Scholarship
Patrick J. Berrigan III
Delgado Community College
Noah D. Bertot
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
Owen C. Bourg
Louisiana State University
TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President's Student Aid Job
Che' M. Boyd
University of Louisiana Lafayette
TOPS Opportunity Award
Aiden B. Bradley
Louisiana Tech University TOPS Opportunity Award
Kieran F. Brannan
Marquette University (H)
Navy ROTC Scholarship, Père Marquette Scholarship, Jesuit HS
Marquette Tuition Scholarship, Magis Campus Resident Scholarship, Ignatian Distinction Scholarship
Andrew W. Breaux
Louisiana Tech University
TOPS Opportunity Award
Benjamin A. Brockhoff
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
United States Military Appointment
William C. Brooks
University of Mississippi
Academic Merit Scholarship, Non-Resident Alumni Award, STEM Major Non-Resident Scholarship
Noah W. Broussard
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award
Peyton A. Brown
Louisiana State University
TOPS Performance Award
Jackson T. Calderaro
Colorado School of Mines President's Scholarship
John C. Calhoun, Jr.
Louisiana State University (H)
National Merit Finalist
TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Dominic B. Carollo
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award
Gage A. Casadaban
Louisiana State University
TOPS Performance Award
Graham P. Casey
University of Southern Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship
Matthew L. Cavignac
Louisiana State University
TOPS Opportunity Award
Benjamin D. Cedro
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Nicholas V. Celestin
Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award
Landon J. Chadwick
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President's Student Aid Job
Jake R. Charbonnet
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Anthony F. Ciervo University of Mississippi
Kyle P. Collins
Louisiana State University
TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Jay T. Comboy
Tulane University (H)
TOPS Opportunity Award, Founders Scholarship
David A. Contreras
Louisiana State University
National Hispanic Recognition Award
TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award
Carter J. Corsetti
Pepperdine University Tuition Exchange Scholar
Luke A. Couret
Louisiana State University
TOPS Performance Award
Jack H. Cousins
Louisiana State University
TOPS Performance Award
Cooper R. Craig
U.S. Naval Academy United States Military Appointment
Conor V. D'Arcy
Tulane University
TOPS Honors Award, Faculty Scholarship
Nicholas A. Danna V
Louisiana State University (H)
TOPS Honors Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, Flagship Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Degan J. Dansereau, Jr. University of Alabama (H) Presidential Scholarship
Kamron C. Darkshani
Oregon State University Provost Scholarship
Dylan T. Davis
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
Nicholas B. DeHart
University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Performance Award, Cypress Scholarship
Everett B. Denny
Delgado Community College TOPS Performance Award
Elliott J. Derbes
Samford University
Marion Scholarship, Davis Scholarship, Mann Legacy Scholarship, Knights of Columbus Catholic Youth Leadership Award
Harrison E. Dietz
Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award
Colin J. Ditta University of Mississippi
John J. Dlugos V
Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award
Tate D. Dupré
Texas Christian University Faculty Scholarship
Gardner H. Ebrahim
Boston College
National Merit Commended Merit Scholarship
Joseph A. Edwards
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
Sterling J. Elvir Employment
Bradley P. Eschmann
University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award, Cypress Scholarship
Nickolas A. Estrada
Loyola University New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award, Loyola Merit Scholarship
National Merit Scholarship Corporation Scholarship, Classics Scholarship
Paul J. Varisco III
University of Alabama
UA Scholar Scholarship
Joshua
Louisiana
Caleb
Louisiana State University
Michael E. Vocke
Louisiana State University
TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President's Student Aid Job
Tyler D. D. Vu
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
Nathan M. Walsdorf
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
West W. Warren, Jr.
Louisiana Tech University
Hayden A. Welk
Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award
Luke J. Werling
Louisiana Tech University TOPS Opportunity Award, Counselor’s Choice Scholarship
James Owen L. West
University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award
Nathan J. J. Wiseman
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (H) TOPS Opportunity Award
WHAT THEY’RE STUDYING
Kaden A. Wright
University of Louisiana Lafayette
Wajid A. Zahid
Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award
Ali Zaini
University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award, Magnolia Scholarship
Alberto F. Zuniga
Auburn University
Academic Charter Scholarship
WHERE THEY’RE GOING CLASS OF 2025
American University (1)
Arizona State University (1)
Assumption University
Auburn University (4)
Augusta University
Ave Maria University (2)
Baton Rouge Community College
Baylor University
Belmont Abbey College
Belmont University
Benedictine College
Berry College
Boston College (1)
Butler University
CA State University Maritime Academy
Case Western Reserve University (1)
Centenary College of Louisiana
Clemson University
College of Charleston (1)
College of the Holy Cross (1)
College of William and Mary
Colorado School of Mines (2)
Colorado State University
Columbia University
Delgado Community College (2)
DePaul University
Drexel University
Elon University
Fairfield University
Fletcher Community College (1)
Florida A&M University
Florida Institute of Technology (1)
Florida Southern College
Florida State University (1)
Fordham University
Franciscan University at Steubenville
Furman University (1)
Georgetown University (1)
Gonzaga University
Great Lakes Maritime Academy
Hampton University (1)
High Point University
James Madison University
Lehigh University
Loras College
Louisiana State University (81)
Louisiana State University at Eunice (1)
Louisiana Tech University (11)
Loyola Marymount University
Loyola University Chicago (3)
Loyola University Maryland
Loyola University New Orleans (2)
Lynn University
Maine Maritime Academy
Marquette University (2)
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Mercer University (1)
Merrimack College
Michigan State University
Millsaps College
Mississippi State University (2)
Newberry College
Nicholls State University
North Carolina State University
Northeastern University (2)
Northwestern State University of Louisiana (1)
Nunez Community College (1)
Oglethorpe University
Ohio University
Oregon State University (1)
Oxford College of Emory University
Pennsylvania State University
Pepperdine University (1)
Providence College
Purdue University
Regis University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rhodes College
Rutgers University
Saint Louis University
Samford University (1)
Santa Clara University
Seattle University
Seton Hall University
Sewanee: The University of the South Southeastern Louisiana University (6)
Southern Methodist University (1)
Spring Hill College (2)
St. Edward's University
St. Louis University
Suffolk University
SUNY Maritime College
Temple University
Texas A&M University (1)
Texas Christian University (3)
The Catholic University of America
The Citadel
Trinity University
Tulane University (10)
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (2)
U.S. Naval Academy (2)
University of Alabama (9)
University of Alabama at Birmingham (1)
University of Arizona
University of Arkansas (2)
University of California, Santa Cruz
University of Colorado Boulder (1)
University of Colorado Colorado Springs (1)
University of Connecticut
University of Dallas (2)
University of Denver
University of Florida
University of Georgia (2)
University of Houston
University of Illinois Chicago
University of Iowa (1)
University of Kansas
University of Kentucky
University of Louisiana Lafayette (17)
University of Louisiana Monroe
University of Massachusetts Amherst
University of Massachusetts Boston
University of Memphis
University of Miami
University of Michigan
University of Mississippi (13)
University of Missouri
University of Nebraska
University of New Mexico
University of New Orleans (7)
University of North Carolina at Asheville
University of Notre Dame (1)
University of Oklahoma
Sixty-two percent of students are going to college in-state (139). Thirty-eight percent of students are going out-ofstate (86) .
Blue Jays have accepted $9,407,265 in scholarship dollars.
University of Oregon
University of Pittsburgh
University of Redlands
University of Richmond
University of Rochester
University of San Francisco
University of South Alabama (1)
University of South Carolina
University of Southern Mississippi (1)
University of Tampa
University of Tennessee (4)
University of Texas at Austin (1)
University of the Pacific
University of Utah
On the map below are listed the 161 colleges and universities to which the graduates of the Class of 2024 were accepted. Schools listed in bold are the 58 institutions they are attending with the number of attendees in parentheses.
This year’s “long distance award” goes to Kamron Darkshani who is traveling more than 2,064 miles to attend Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon.
The largest contingent, 81 Blue Jays, is destined for Louisiana State University.
Twenty-three graduates are attending Christian institutions. Among them, 17 are enrolled in Catholic institutions, and 12 of those are Jesuit schools.
University of Virginia
University of Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin Madison
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Universityof South Alabama
College
Vanderbilt University
Villanova University
Virginia Tech University
Wofford College
Employment
Valencia
(1)
(1)
Xavier University Xavier University of Louisiana
(3) Undecided (2)
JESUIT
The State of the Blue Jay Address
“Jesuit students consist of a mix of being men of faith, men for others, disciplined, and hardworking individuals,” Student Council Executive Board president Luke Couret told the student body. “These values are instilled in all of you, shaping you into well-rounded individuals. So let us take the values that Jesuit has instilled in each and every one of us and let it serve as a guiding light as we navigate the complexities of the world beyond these walls.”
On
Scan hear to hear the rest of Couret’s “State of the Blue Jay” address.
their final day of school, the seniors received a blessing from Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J., marking the end of their journey at Jesuit.
Fostering Community Commencement Luncheon Brings Together Seniors
and Alumni
On May 3, Jesuit held its twenty-first annual Commencement Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Hotel to honor and welcome the Class of 2024 into the Jesuit Alumni Association. This significant event brought together seniors and alumni, including many fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and brothers of the honored class, fostering a deep sense of community and continuity.
Each table at the luncheon accommodated a mix of ten seniors and alumni, creating an environment rich with shared memories and experiences. The featured speaker for the occasion was John Gin ’73, whose insightful words resonated with both the new graduates and the seasoned alumni.
Born in Hong Kong, Gin moved to New Orleans at age seven to help his family operate Gin’s Mee Hong Restaurant in the French Quarter. Gin joined the Class of 1973, where he was active in the Marine Corps JROTC, the drill team, the Chess Club, and founded the Bicycle Club. Currently, he is the owner of Gin Wealth Management Partners and has 40 years of experience working with nonprofits, associations, small businesses, families, and individuals. From 1989 to 2019, he wrote the “MoneyWatch” column for The Times-Picayune and was honored for initiating “Money Watch Live,” a major financial symposium. He also serves on the boards of the East Jefferson General Hospital Foundation, the Financial Planning Association of Louisiana, and the ACE Scholarship program.
(continued on next page)
Gin’s speech, characterized by reflections on his own journey and the enduring values instilled by his Jesuit education, served as both inspiration and guidance for the graduating class. He emphasized the importance of active participation in life, saying, “Life is not a spectator sport, to get the most from life you have to be a player—you have to volunteer, you have to connect, you have to engage. By doing so you’re going to create
opportunities that did not exist.”
The luncheon underscored the strong bonds that define the Jesuit community, celebrating the transition of the Class of 2024 from students to alumni. It highlighted the deep connections between generations of Blue Jays, reinforcing the sense of belonging and continuity that is core to Jesuit’s mission. The event was a testament to the enduring values of service, engagement, and leadership
that Jesuit instills in its students, preparing them to become men for others in every stage of their lives.
AND BRENNAN MAKES SIX...
(opposite, top) Senior Brennan Aucoin is the last of six brothers to graduate from Jesuit. The brothers reunited at the luncheon along with their uncles and grandfather.
Continuing Jesuit’s legacy of academic excellence, five students recently achieved the highest possible ACT composite score of 36. This accomplishment raises Jesuit’s total number of perfect ACT scorers to 49 since 2013.
Jesuit’s 2023 Academic Accomplishments Brochure showcased 14 students who attained either a perfect or “superscore” 36 during the 2023 calendar year. The 2024 edition of this brochure, which will include results from the past spring, is scheduled for release in the fall.
Attended
Access the complete 2023 Academic Accomplishments brochure via the QR code.
Son of Katherine & Crawford Rose
Haynes Academy & Metairie Academy JOHN ROSE
Son of Jane & Leo Congeni
Attended Stuart Hall for Boys LEO CONGENI
Son of Katie & John Cognevich
Attended Stuart Hall for Boys KACEY COGNEVICH
Son of Laurie & Bill Jennings Attended Metairie Park Country Day CARTER JENNINGS
Son of Christopher & Evelyn Schlafer Attended Belle Chasse Academy SAMUEL SCHLAFER
(from left to right) Colin Cambre ’00, Oddie Aucoin ’22, Austin Aucoin ’14, Reid Aucoin ’20, Brennan Aucoin, Kenneth Aucoin ’18, Evan Aucoin ’16, David Cambre ’62, and Clay Cambre ’90
For the second time in three years, Jesuit’s Mu Alpha Theta secured a state championship at the annual Mu Alpha Theta State Convention in Baton Rouge. Competing against 27 schools and approximately 727 students, the 84-member team, led by moderators Kate Brauner and Kelly Lulich, demonstrated exceptional strategic skill and depth.
In the area tests, notable performances included freshman Isaac Orillion’s 4th place in Geometry and senior Dylan Patel’s 2nd place in Calculus AB-Integration. Sophomore Ben Evans, junior Ethan Lapeze, and seniors Noah St. Germain and Pete Metzinger each earned top positions
in their respective categories.
Individual test achievements were highlighted by freshman Gus Goudelocke’s 1st place in Geometry and William Bellot’s 2nd place in the Scholarship Test. The team also excelled in various games, with Aidan Wang winning 1st place in Precalculus “Descartes,” and the Geometry team of Goudelocke and freshman Leon Edmond taking 1st place in “Gemini.”
In the Math Bowl Finals, Jesuit excelled by ranking in the top ten at every level. The Precalculus team of juniors Andrew Duncan, Samuel Schlafer, Carter Jennings, and Jackson Sober clinched 1st place, while the Geometry team of freshmen Tristan Alonso, Mason McMenis,
Grady Miles, and Connor Bussey also took 1st place. Bussey and Ben Farmer were recognized as Top Cipherers for Geometry and Algebra II, respectively.
On the interschool test, Jesuit’s Algebra II and Precalculus students achieved 1st place in their divisions, with the Calculus team securing 4th place in the Mu Division.
Special thanks to teachers and chaperones Brauner, Lulich, Leslie Merritt, Paul Rogers, Yvonne Leger, Michael Armelin, Kevin Yokum ’14, Matt Firmin ’10, and Marc Gittings for their guidance and support in preparing Jesuit’s young mathematicians for these competitions.
Introducing New Faces in Jesuit’s Enrollment and Admissions Office
In partnering with parents to form their sons into the men they were made to be, Jesuit strives to provide a seamless experience for parents and students. The role of Jesuit’s admissions team is to help families build meaningful, authentic relationships with the school throughout the high school discernment and enrollment process. Jesuit is proud to introduce three outstanding additions to the school’s enrollment and admissions office. Theresa Bertucci Truxillo has been named Jesuit’s director of enrollment. Truxillo is tasked with strategic
oversight of the school’s complete enrollment efforts from families’ first contact with Jesuit through Blue Jays’ experience as students.
Joining her on the team as Jesuit’s new director of admissions is Jonathan Hernandez ’00, a current physical education and world geography teacher who serves as Jesuit’s assistant varsity basketball coach. In his new role, Hernandez will focus on cultivating relationships with prospective students and families to help them discern their best fit in a Catholic high school.
Pre-freshman teacher Matthew Firmin ’10, who has been named an
admissions officer, brings years of experience as a classroom teacher, wrestling coach, and co-curricular moderator. In his new role, Firmin will engage with families from a wide range of local schools, personal backgrounds, demographics, and neighborhoods to ensure that a worldclass Jesuit education continues to be available to students from all walks of life.
“I am excited that Theresa, Jonathan, and Matt will be walking alongside prospective families in the admissions process,” said Jeremy Reuther ’01, Jesuit’s principal. “All three are especially gifted at building relationships and sharing their passion for Jesuit’s mission to form students into the men they are made to be. The future is bright for new Blue Jays to find their place at Carrollton & Banks.”
A Farewell to a Beloved Educator
Tim Powers Retires From Jesuit After 43 Years
hen Tim Powers first arrived at Jesuit High School in 1981, he was fresh off a career as a journalist and a brief stint in banking. Hired to teach English and moderate the school newspaper, he thought his move to New Orleans might be temporary, but Jesuit quickly became his permanent home. For over 43 years, Powers has been a constant presence in the English department, sharing his love of grammar,
literature, and faith with generations of Blue Jays.
His tenure has been marked by a profound commitment to the school’s mission, and his influence is woven into the fabric of Jesuit’s culture. In the fall semester of the 2023-24 academic year, Powers was named a recipient of the John Paquette Award in recognition of his over forty years of service to Jesuit.
Reflecting on his years on Banks Street, Powers often spoke about the joys of teaching in a community
that feels as timeless as it is unique. “The students are as eager and curious today as they were in the early ’80s,” Powers remarked in a recent interview, “and it’s their spirit that has kept me here.”
Powers has seen the school change in many ways, from a three-story campus with ROTC drills in the “Basement” to the modern facilities of today, and from typewriters to digital devices. Yet he is quick to emphasize that the heart of Jesuit—its pursuit of God’s greater glory by forming men
1982 2024
Watch Tim Powers's final address to the Student Body
for others—has remained constant.
Over the years, Powers was known not only as a teacher but also as a mentor, moderator, and occasional playwright in the school’s Philelectic Society productions. He guided students through significant challenges, including the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when he taught night classes at St. Martin’s Episcopal School. Those nights were emblematic of Powers’ dedication,
affectionate title of “The Commish.”
Fr. John Brown, S.J., Jesuit’s president, described him as “a beacon of resilience and dedication, whose steady presence helped guide students through some of the most transformative years of their lives.” Powers’ passion for literature was matched only by his devotion to his students and his commitment to Jesuit’s mission. He fondly recalls the camaraderie with colleagues
spirit with which he approached each day at Jesuit.
“How fortunate I am to have taught and gotten to know the bright, talented, and generous young men I see standing here before me, as well as those who stood here before you, whose places you have taken,” he told the student body at his final morning assembly. “What an adventure it has been to watch souls advance in wisdom’s bright careers with minds
“The students are as eager and curious today as they were in the early ’80s and it’s their spirit that has kept me here.”
as he kept textbooks in his trunk and taught classes from 4 to 10 p.m., helping students rebuild routines amid the chaos of post-storm recovery. He also oversaw intramural sports for over 25 years, organizing events for hundreds of students and earning the
like Norm Stafford and Charlie McGannon
As he retires, Powers leaves behind a legacy rooted in faith and service. His parting words—drawn in part from Psalm 30, “Joy cometh in the morning”—perfectly encapsulate the
and hearts enlightened. I will carry you in my heart through all the days of life. Were there a way for me to begin another 43 years a Jesuit, nothing would make me happier. But some things are just not possible this side of paradise.”
A Legacy of Dedication
Norm Stafford Retires From Jesuit After 35 Years
This spring, Norm Stafford retired from Jesuit High School, concluding a remarkable 35-year career.
Stafford began his journey with Jesuit in August 1989 and, over the years, has taught almost 3,000 Blue Jays.
For nearly four decades, Stafford has been a fixture of wisdom, mentorship, and humor for generations of students.
“Norm Stafford’s unwavering dedication and infectious enthusiasm have left an indelible mark on Jesuit High School,” said Fr. John Brown, S.J., “and he has inspired generations
1989 2024
of students and colleagues alike.”
At a farewell morning assembly honoring Stafford’s retirement, Fr. Brown introduced him with words that encapsulated his profound impact. Stafford then took the stage to reflect on a lifetime shaped by Jesuit values.
His speech, filled with gratitude and nostalgia, recounted how a spelling bee win as an eighth-grade student in Buffalo, New York, set him on a Jesuit path that eventually brought him to Jesuit High School in New Orleans. Beginning at Canisius High School, the Jesuit school
in Buffalo, New York, Stafford’s journey from a reluctant student to a beloved educator was marked by what he acknowledged as “God’s hand” guiding him at every step.
Throughout his career, Stafford has been an integral part of Jesuit’s English department, teaching English II, English III Honors, English V, and English V AP. As the department chair, he spearheaded initiatives to enhance the curriculum, and as the moderator of the school newspaper, he encouraged students to find their voices.
Watch Norm Stafford's final address to the Student Body
His classes, particularly the AP English courses, became well-known for blending rigorous academic standards with a genuine passion for literature and poetry. Stafford’s influence extended beyond the classroom and into the very life of the campus—for instance, he recently portrayed Pope Paul III in the Philelectic Society’s production, a role that delighted students and colleagues alike.
shared, “I was blessed to work with a team dedicated to the success of our students.”
In his farewell speech, Stafford highlighted the joy he felt working alongside the dedicated staff and faculty at Jesuit. With deep connection to the Jesuit community and confidence in the future of the school, he expressed pride in seeing his former students return to the school as teachers and administrators.
“I’m grateful to have been both his student and his colleague,” he added, “and I know there are hundreds and thousands of other Jesuit alumni who feel the same sense of gratitude.”
Stafford’s retirement is both a farewell and a continuation of the Jesuit tradition, as his legacy echoes in the countless lives he has influenced. Though he will be missed in Jesuit’s halls, his influence will remain as a guiding light for future generations of
“The light of God surrounds us. The love of God enfolds us. The power of God protects us, and the presence of God watches over us. Wherever we are, God is, and all is well.”
Stafford’s legacy is not just the knowledge he imparted but in the lives he touched. His former students remember him as an instructor who inspired a deep appreciation for literature and writing.
Colleagues remember him as a warm and supportive presence who approached his work with humility and dedication. “Every day,” Stafford
“In my own days teaching English, I pulled more than a few tricks from my memories of Mr. Stafford’s class,” said Christian Bautista ’06, Jesuit’s director of institutional advancement. “Mr. Stafford is a singular, dynamic educator—the kind of teacher whose passion and commitment made much more of a difference in people’s lives than he probably ever realized.”
Blue Jays. It is only fitting to conclude a celebration of his tenure with the prayer that started each one of his classes.
“The light of God surrounds us. The love of God enfolds us. The power of God protects us, and the presence of God watches over us. Wherever we are, God is, and all is well.”
Stafford's 1975 Senior Photo from Canisius High School
Guides to Heaven's Spheres Jesuit's Chapel Renovation Updates
Jesuit is undergoing an inspiring transformation of the Chapel of the North American Martyrs.
The chapel’s new ceiling beautifully depicts the constellations as they appeared over New Orleans 2,000 years ago on the night of the Resurrection. This celestial design was developed by Jesuit’s president, Fr. John Brown, S.J., and creative director, Brittany Donnes, in consultation with the Vatican Observatory through Fr. David Brown, S.J. Complementing the celestial theme, local artist Jaclyn Warren has created newly commissioned paintings of the martyrs, generously underwritten by Jesuit parents, alumni, and benefactors.
Jesuit is in the final philanthropic phase of “Phase 1” for the chapel renovation. This $5 million phase includes a new elevator entrance, funded by the Class of 1976, and will feature interior updates, a bridal suite, newly added bathrooms, new pews, and more. To support this project, please contact Jamie Roy at roy@jesuitnola.org.
SAINT ROBERT BELLARMINE, S.J.
BY DAVID M. PRADOS ’75
FFr. Robert Bellarmine, S.J., has quite an impressive resume— even for a Jesuit. Before he was a saint, he was a priest, Cardinal, Bishop, and Archbishop, and he was named a Doctor of the Church in 1931. In contrast with his lofty accolades, Bellarmine is celebrated as a model of humility, compromise, and compassion. One story that illustrates his serene demeanor arose during a hot Rome summer when swarms of flies buzzed around him and his companions. Asked why he did not bother to shoo them away, Bellarmine responded that it would not be fair to the flies since his nose was their paradise.
Bellarmine was born in Italy in 1542. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1560 at the age of 18 and was ordained a priest in 1570. Subsequently, he was appointed the first Jesuit professor of theology at the University of Louvain in the Netherlands (now Belgium).
Bellarmine was an important Catholic leader during the CounterReformation. When Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the doors of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517, the Catholic Church faced a growing opposition movement seeking reforms to certain practices and policies. Luther’s Theses challenged certain misunderstood or misapplied practices, notably the improper sale of indulgences by some local officials. While these abuses did not reflect the Church’s authentic teaching or mission, they sparked debates that led the Church to clarify her doctrines and reassert her commitment to guiding the faithful toward Christ’s Truth.
Located in the “low countries,” where Protestantism was rapidly growing, Bellarmine directed the University’s teachings to establish a stronghold of Catholic orthodoxy. His teachings and writings addressed the doctrinal objections of reformers such as Luther and John Calvin. Bellarmine specialized in fairly and methodically untangling and clarifying the theological disputes that had divided the Church.
In 1586 he published the first of
three volumes of his Disputations Concerning the Controversies of the Christian Faith Against the Heretics of this Time In these works, he defended the Catholic faith against the Protestant reformers. He brought a calm and fair analysis to the theological disputes separating Catholics and Protestants. His arguments were credited with leading to the return to Catholicism of many who had adopted the new Protestant movement. Bellarmine advocated an enlightened Christianity based on tolerance and acceptance of others.
In 1588, as spiritual director of the Collegio Romano in Rome he taught catechism to students and Jesuit brothers. This led him to write his Brief Christian Doctrine, a children’s catechism, and a longer more detailed catechism for teachers. In 1598 he published these Catechisms, which were used by the Church as her official teachings even into the Twentieth century. His Doctrina Christiana summarized church doctrine in the approachable language of the people, making the Church’s teachings more readily available. He also served on Papal Commissions to revise the Latin Bible and to prepare a new edition of the Greek Bible. Bellarmine also wrote extensively on the relations between church and state powers, particularly on the spiritual and temporal powers of the pope and the divine right of kings.
the Archbishop of Capua. He was later named Bishop of Montepulciano, the city of his birth.
Bellarmine became theological advisor to Pope Clement VIII in 1596. He was named a Cardinal in 1599. As such, he served as a Cardinal Inquisitor, participating in Inquisition trials of those accused of being heretics. In 1602 he was made
In 1616 Bellarmine took part in the early stages of the Church’s case against Galileo regarding his support for Copernicus’ heliocentric theory that the earth revolved around the sun. At that time, many in the Church interpreted Scripture in a way that favored a geocentric view, believing it consistent with passages such as Psalm 93.1. Bellarmine, rooted in fidelity to revealed truth, acknowledged that should clear proof emerge for the heliocentric model, the Church would thoughtfully reconcile scientific insights with the deep truths of Sacred Scripture—a perspective in keeping with the Catholic tradition that faith and reason ultimately converge in God’s truth.
Bellarmine found that Galileo had not proven the heliocentric theory. Therefore, he advised that Galileo should propose the theory
(above) Page of the short catechism of Bellarmine: Dottrina cristiana breve, 1752
as only a hypothesis unless and until it could be definitively proven. Galileo was admonished not to hold or defend the Copernican theory as truth. This resolution enhanced Bellarmine’s reputation as a reasonable man. Notably, he believed that if it were proven that the Earth did revolve around the sun, biblical passages to the contrary would have to be reconsidered in light of modern scientific knowledge.
Although many Cardinals of the era were accustomed to traditional displays of ecclesial dignity and hospitality, Bellarmine chose a simpler way of life. His personal embrace of humility and poverty exemplified the Church’s authentic call to holiness, reflecting the Ignatian spirit of seeing God in all things—especially in modesty and generosity to the poor. He is said not only to have donated money and goods he did not need to the poor, but also to have given them tapestries from his Vatican apartments, remarking that the walls would not catch cold.
Unfortunately, shortly after he retired, he contracted a fever from which he did not recover. He died in 1621. He is buried in the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola in Rome. His remains can be viewed under glass, dressed in the red robes of a Cardinal, near a side altar memorializing his student, St. Aloysius Gonzaga. After Bellarmine’s death, his half-length bust, hands clasped in prayer, was carved in marble by the great Italian sculptor and architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It, too, can be visited in Rome at the Jesuit Church of the Gesú (the Most Holy Name of Jesus), the “mother church” of the Society of Jesus.
Pope Pius XI canonized Bellarmine a saint in 1930. He was named a Doctor of the Church in 1931 based on his doctrinal defenses, Catechisms, and ecclesiastical writings. There are only thirty-seven Doctors of the Church, a designation given to saints whose teachings and writings have significantly contributed to Roman Catholic theology and doctrine. In our times of discord and partisanship, we would do well to emulate Saint Robert Bellarmine’s gift of compassion.
DAVID PRADOS ’75 Former Jesuit Educator
Generations United in Faith
During the Father-Son Mass and Dinner, the Jesuit community gathered to reflect on the enduring values and traditions passed down through generations. This cherished event provided a spiritual setting that underscored the profound connections between fathers and sons, echoing the divine relationship between God the Father and God the Son. Seniors Degan Dansereau, Jr., and Jack Lauricella shared heartfelt speeches, reflecting on their bonds with their fathers, Degan Dansereau, Sr. ’91, and Marc Lauricella. By celebrating these relationships, the event highlighted the essential role of family and faith in shaping Jesuit’s character and community, inspiring attendees to continue to be men of faith and men for others—men who relentlessly pursue God’s greater glory.”
JESUIT
Sacred Encounters
The Relics of Saint Jean de Brébeuf at Jesuit
The arrival of the relics of St. Jean de Brébeuf at Jesuit High School marked a historic moment, not only for Jesuit itself but for the entire New Orleans Catholic community. For the first time in nearly four centuries, the physical remains of a North American martyr—one of the men for whom Jesuit’s Chapel of the North American Martyrs is named— crossed borders to remind the faithful of Brébeuf’s extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unrelenting faith. As students, parents, alumni, and other community members gathered to venerate these relics that had not left Canada since Brébeuf’s martyrdom in the 1600s, they experienced a special connection with the saint who powerfully exemplifies Jesuit’s mission.
The North American Martyrs were a group of Jesuit missionaries martyred while bringing the Gospel to Indigenous peoples in Canada. Brébeuf’s life, in particular, was marked by intense physical and spiritual hardships, as recounted by Fr. Joseph Hill, S.J., the vocations promoter for the Central and Southern Province of the Society of Jesus.
Fr. Hill shared his personal connection to Brébeuf, remarking, “I don’t necessarily hope to share each and every one of his experiences, but I want to share his courage. I find his generosity and love in the midst of suffering to be beyond words, a mystery to me.” In honoring Brébeuf, Jesuit students were invited to consider how they too might embrace selflessness and a commitment to their faith in the face of modern challenges.
Brébeuf’s life exemplifies Jesuit’s call for students and alumni to live as men for others. As Fr. Hill explained, the life of a Jesuit missionary mirrors the sacrificial love at the heart of the Gospel. Brébeuf’s dedication to the Huron people was marked by profound acts of love and humility, even in the face of fierce and violent opposition. His mission was one of service, not conquest—a reality that resonates deeply with Jesuit students
as they aspire to embody the values of their education.
His story is also one of resilience. Fr. Hill recounted the incredible journey Brébeuf undertook to bring the Gospel to the Huron people, navigating a treacherous landscape and enduring intense physical suffering. During his mission, Brébeuf faced numerous challenges, from the harsh climate of Canada to the complex cultural barriers that separated him from the people he sought to serve. Yet he persevered, driven by a deep sense of purpose and an unwavering faith.
As Fr. Hill noted, “He teaches us that we must also pray for this type of love—love for our wayward brothers and sisters here in our time. The only way that we have ever reached anyone is through love; this is the way that the missionaries did it, and this is the way that Jesus did it.”
Addressing attendees, Fr. John Brown, S.J., Jesuit’s president, highlighted the enduring relevance of Brébeuf’s martyrdom. Connecting the moment with the story of another saint, he recalled the image of St. Martin of Tours, a soldier-turnedsaint who cut his cloak to share with a beggar.
“If we count the cost before we give,” Fr. Brown said, “we will soon stop giving.” He noted that Blue Jays are called to serve with an open heart, unconditionally, even when the outcomes are uncertain. The veneration of relics, he noted, connects the faithful to the saints in a tangible way that mirrors St. Martin de Tours’ example.
Fr. Brown elaborated on the significance of relics, explaining, “The more intimate the object to the person we revere, the better—the more precious it is. How precious, then, is the connection we gain with the saints through their relics? We do not believe that our body is merely to be discarded when we die because we believe that we are body and soul— composite beings—not merely one or the other.”
In celebrating Brébeuf’s legacy, Jesuit also pays homage to the cultural heritage of New Orleans. The chapel will soon be adorned with life-sized
paintings of the North American Martyrs by local artist Jaclyn Warren. The paintings depict the saints dressed in vestments similar to those worn by the Jesuits celebrating Mass, creating a visual continuity between the past and the present. This connection to tradition and to the faithful triumphant, as Fr. Brown pointed out, reinforces the reality that “the saints are our companions, praying alongside the faithful and offering guidance on the journey of faith.”
During the veneration, Fr. Hill invited those present to write down prayer intentions and place them near the relics. He reminded students, parents, and alumni, “We are touching something very valuable and something very holy.” Participants were given a moment to pause and consider how they might carry forward the spirit of Brébeuf in their own lives, embodying his humility, courage, and selflessness.
In a world that often prioritizes the superficial, the visit of the relics
invited Jesuit students to look beyond appearances and find meaning in service, sacrifice, and spiritual depth. The legacy of St. Jean de Brébeuf offers a powerful witness to the transformative power of faith—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of young men at Jesuit as the Chapel of the North American Martyrs is transformed to meet its full potential for devotional beauty.”
A Tribute to Four Jesuit Mothers
In a special gathering at the Metairie Country Club, Fr. John Brown, S.J., school president, graciously presented the Alma Mater Award to four esteemed women: Stacy Helm, Kelley Moreau, Sueann North, and
Christine Zazulak. This prestigious award, initiated in 1992, celebrates the invaluable volunteer efforts of Blue Jay mothers whose dedication has significantly advanced Jesuit. Guests at the pre-lunch patron party enjoyed the harmonious music of Roberto Matthews ’96 , adding a special touch to the celebration. The luncheon that followed, expertly organized by event chair Gabriela Thompson, co-chair
Jeanie Favret , and the Mothers’ Luncheon committee, provided a delightful opportunity for mothers to enjoy one another’s company. The Jesuit Mothers’ Luncheon, which saw over 250 moms in attendance, serves as a testament to the vital role both past and present mothers play within our community. The celebrated honorees, recognized for their exceptional contributions, have left a lasting imprint on the school’s culture and spirit.
The Blue Jay Bazaar brought the Jesuit community together, filling the campus with an atmosphere of vibrant energy and camaraderie. Presented by Reliant Recycling and supported by numerous generous donors, the event saw parents, students, faculty, alumni, and families gather under sunny skies. Attendees enjoyed a rich variety of
food, live performances, engaging games, and spirited contests.
The day began with a ceremonial welcome led by Fr. John Brown, S.J., and the MCJROTC, instilling a sense of reverence and Blue Jay Spirit. The Barbershop Blue Jays delivered a beautiful rendition of the Alma Mater. Entertainment featured performances by The Crescent Kings, The
Bucktown All Stars, Jesuit’s Blue Jay Jazz Band, the Jayettes, Cheerleaders, and the Philelectic Society.
The third annual Laissez Les Bons Temps Blue Jay Cook-Off saw enthusiastic teams from the community preparing and serving creative culinary delights. Attendees sampled these offerings and voted for their favorite dish, adding a
flavorful twist to the day. The Crème de la Crème award went to Carbar Catering’s Granville Morse ’89 for Shrimp on Da Belly with “J” Sauce. The Krewe de la Crème title was claimed by The Back-toBack Cookers, featuring Gina Mire, Diem Nguyen, Rich Barnett ’94, and wrestling team members, for their
Smoked Pork Bao with Hoisin BBQ Sauce.
The day concluded with a special Mass in the Chapel of the North American Martyrs celebrated by Fr. Jon Polce, S.J., allowing the community to unite in gratitude and prayer.
Jesuit extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Bazaar chairs, booth captains,
and numerous volunteers for their dedication. Special recognition goes to Bazaar chairs, Judy Kelley and Sumer Simone; Bazaar food chairs Jessica Hughes and Kelly Uddo; and Bazaar game chairs Missy Martin and Gabby Thompson for their leadership and commitment.
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS!
BLUE JAY BAZAAR
PRESENTING SPONSOR
S. SOLOMON ST. SPONSORS
FISHING RODEO
PRESENTING SPONSOR
CARROLLTON AVE. SPONSOR
FLAG SPONSOR
BANKS ST. STAGE SPONSORS
T-SHIRT SLEEVE SPONSORS
SOUVENIR CUP SPONSORS
KOOZIE SPONSORS
T-SHIRT SPONSORS
BOOTH SPONSORS
Bourgeois Bennett CPA
Brian & Kristin Moore
Dick & Judy Burke
East Jefferson Emergency Physicians
Go Jays! The Grilletta Family
Gulf South Foot & Ankle
Jack Maguire
JJC Law
The Flair Family – Senior Jack Flair
The Golemi & Espinoza Families
Truitt & William Balart
SPONSOR BOARD SPONSORS
Fleur de Lis Tire & Auto
Ashlee & Matt Brown ’02
Promotional Products for You, LLC
Raymond Caballero
Richard Donnes ’83
The Holley Family
KOOZIE SPONSORS
SPONSOR BOARD SPONSORS
A SPECIAL THANKS TO CAPT. DUDLEY VANDENBORRE
Anglers Unite for Annual Fishing Rodeo
The Brother Dardis Fishing Rodeo brought together anglers and Blue Jay fishing enthusiasts for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition, hosted in the Traditions Courtyard at the heart of campus.
Under sunny skies, participants gathered for the weigh-in festivities,
many wearing the event’s official long-sleeved camouflage print rodeo shirt. Highlights included a rubber mullet toss and casting game for younger attendees, an educational booth featuring Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, refreshing snowballs from Kona Ice, and Jayson making rounds across campus. Max Gruenig ’06 and his team prepared delicious fish plates on site, offering a savory treat for all who attended. Two grand prizes were awarded: a fishing trip for four with Capt. Evan Hatrel ’17 and Fish Commander, underwritten by Edward Jones, went
to Hunter Maher ’18 in the adult age group. The second prize, a fishing trip for three with Capt. Dudley Vandenborre, was awarded to prefreshman Sean Weiss in the 18-andunder group.
Jesuit extends sincere appreciation to Brian Bent ’89 and Greg Bent of Bent’s RV and Bent Marine for their generous presenting sponsorship and for showcasing their impressive RVs and boats. Special thanks go to all sponsors and in-kind donors, whose support was crucial to the success of this year’s rodeo.
A Swinging Success
The 2024 Jesuit Golf Classic, held on April 12 at Bayou Oaks in City Park, welcomed over 200 golfers for a day of camaraderie and competition. Sponsored by First Horizon, represented by Karl Hoefer ’76 , and Marsh McLennan Agency, represented by Clint Romig ’94 and
Tommy McMahon ’83 , the event featured a variety of engaging activities. Participants enjoyed launching golf balls with a cannon and meeting members of the Jesuit golf team, who showcased the school’s new golf simulator near the 9th hole.
Foursomes indulged in delicious offerings from local eateries, including Acme Oyster House and Central City BBQ. The best-dressed foursome award went to Ray Garafalo, Sean McKay ’08, Stephen Maffei ’08, and Preston Hymel ’08
In the morning round, George
Bartlett II ’02 , George Bartlett ’72 , Tom Bartlett ’89, and Svend Jensen ’72 secured victory with a 14-under par. Connor Prouet ’17 won the closest-to-the-pin contest. The afternoon round saw Keith Jenkins ’99, Chris Sullivan ’99, Bill Guider ’99, and Mike Rodrigue, Jr. ’99 triumph with a 17-under par, claiming both the round and the coveted Class Cup.
Jesuit extends gratitude to committee members, sponsors, and volunteers, whose efforts made the event a success.
Twitch CEO Engages Jesuit Students on Career Days
Jesuit’s annual Career Day provided upperclassmen an opportunity to explore varied professions. Esteemed alumni engaged juniors and seniors in two informative sessions, covering 26 career fields and offering insights into daily professional life, industry trends, educational requirements, and service roles.
Meanwhile, sophomores, freshmen, and pre-freshmen attended a presentation by Dan Clancy ’81, CEO of Twitch, the internet’s premiere streaming platform. Clancy, who
holds a BA in computer science and theatre from Duke University and a PhD in artificial intelligence from the University of Texas at Austin, shared his career journey, emphasizing the role of friendships in shaping selfperception. He recounted his shift from aspiring basketball player to theater enthusiast, highlighting resilience and embracing failure as essential for growth.
Clancy shared anecdotes of career transitions, like moving from finance to social media, stressing the importance of a strong work ethic and mastering new skills. He
also discussed his decision to join Twitch, aligning his technical and creative skills. In a Q&A session, Clancy provided advice for aspiring streamers and addressed the impact of AI on social media algorithms. He concluded by reflecting on integrating Jesuit values in leadership and the guiding role of faith in his career
Watch Clancy's complete address and the subsequent Q&A session with the student body.
At its 34th annual Parade and Review the MCJROTC honored past principal Peter Kernion ’90 for 17 years of dedicated service to Jesuit. The ceremony is a cherished tradition for both the school and the United States Marine Corps.
The Philelectic Society took the stage for the opening night of Guys and Dolls, delivering a captivating performance filled with themes of luck, love, and laughter, showcasing the talent and dedication of the cast and crew.
JESUIT
The Blue Jay Band and choir dazzled at their annual spring concert. With performances from the symphonic and jazz bands, the event celebrated both music and graduating seniors, honoring their achievements and contributions to Jesuit's vibrant musical community.
WRESTLING WINS SECOND STRAIGHT STATE TITLE PINNING VICTORY
The wrestling team clinched the LHSAA Division I state championship for the second consecutive year, amassing 321 points at the event held in Bossier City’s Brookshire Grocery Arena. This victory not only highlighted Jesuit’s prowess on the mat but
also underscored the program’s long history of success, marking the team’s 25th overall title.
Reflecting on the team’s stellar performance and the significance of back-toback titles, head coach Jon Orillion ’01 shared, “The guys have really worked all summer, all year, to see it come together like it did.”
Three wrestlers emerged victorious in their weight classes, significantly contributing to the team’s success.
Senior Spencer Lanosga, a threetime state champion, showcased his unmatched ability by pinning all five opponents in the first period. This achievement is a testament to his status as a nationally ranked
heavyweight and a future U.S. Naval Academy athlete. Junior Bodi Harris and senior Jackson Calderaro also clinched titles in the 120 and 215-pound divisions, respectively, with Harris becoming a two-time state winner.
Orillion expressed pride in the team’s achievement, emphasizing the hard work and dedication of its members. “We set ourselves the goal to come in here and do it again like we did last year. ,” he told Crescent City Sports. He highlighted the significant roles played by Lanosga, Harris, and Calderaro, praising their leadership and the example they set for younger team members.
Lanosga shared his reflections on his high school wrestling career and the bright future he sees for Jesuit wrestling. “This is the deepest team I’ve ever seen. We’ve got backups and third-stringers who I believe,
I know, could easily have placed in this tournament,” Lanosga mentioned in an interview, emphasizing the strong foundation laid for continued success.
Discussing his journey and the team’s future, Lanosga remarked, “I couldn’t help but tear up right after the match just because of the sheer fact that I won’t be able to wrestle
in this blue and white again. But, you know, three-time [champions] is pretty awesome.” His emotional reflection, shared with Crescent City Sports, underscores the deep personal connections formed through the sport and the lasting impact of Jesuit wrestling on its athletes.
The Blue Jays’ achievement was not just a series of personal victories but a
collective effort that underscored the depth of talent and the strong sense of community within the team. With promising young wrestlers ready to step up and a legacy of excellence to uphold, Jesuit’s wrestling program is well-positioned to continue its success in the years to come, aiming to keep the trophy on Carrollton & Banks for the foreseeable future
UNBEATABLE FORCE
LACROSSE SECURES STATE TITLE WITH UNDEFEATED SEASON
ith an undefeated season, the Blue Jay lacrosse team added yet another team photo to the Hall of Champions. The team took the field with determination from day one, overcoming opponents with an impressive balance of offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Under head coach Zach Pall, the team worked at an unrelenting pace for the complete season, building on the program’s storied tradition and ultimately securing a thrilling state championship win in sudden-death overtime.
The season began with the team establishing itself as a regional powerhouse, notching critical early victories against Newman and Catholic High. Among the team’s strong opening performances, sophomore attackman Zach Raymond made an early mark, swiftly positioning himself as one of the Jays’ primary offensive threats. Together with the experienced midfielder Nick Frischhertz , Raymond consistently drove Jesuit’s attack, ensuring their first major victories at Tad Gormley Stadium.
With momentum building, Jesuit’s defense, led by the likes of juniors Jackson Lago and Henry Aucoin, emerged as one of Louisiana’s best. Aucoin, a tenacious and strategic presence in the goal, fortified the Jays’ defensive efforts with reliable saves across multiple games, including a narrow 11-10 victory over Gulf Breeze. Lago, a standout defender and team motivator, regularly applied pressure on opposing attacks,
showcasing physicality and disciplined footwork that made him a mainstay in Jesuit’s backline.
As the season progressed, the Blue Jays continued to meet each challenge. Against Captain Shreve, they recorded an impressive 31-3 win, demonstrating both depth and resilience as they continued to refine their coordination and adaptability across the field. Senior midfielder and faceoff specialist Alex Grilletta was pivotal in several such games, setting up scoring opportunities with consistent and precise ball control. His leadership on the field, complemented by junior Alex Barnett in midfield, helped the Jays dominate possession, allowing the offense to find a rhythm that carried through the regular season.
By April, the Jays were still in top form, delivering one commanding victory after another. A thrilling 10-9 victory over St. Thomas More was one of the highlights, with Frischhertz and Raymond again playing central
roles in a game that tested the team’s tactical and physical endurance. Later in April, the team continued to power through their lineup, with strong showings from players such as sophomore Cannon Mohr, whose agility and relentless pressure added another layer of depth to the Jays’ attack.
A late-season showdown against Catholic High further underscored the Jays’ resilience as they rose to the occasion against their Baton Rouge rivals. In a hard-fought 9-8 victory, Raymond and Frischhertz executed the game-winning plays in the final minutes, a fitting prelude to the upcoming championship game where Jesuit would face Catholic High once again.
In the state championship’s closely matched battle, a tied score at the end of regulation pushed the game into overtime. With every fan on edge, Frischhertz delivered the decisive goal off a fast break, assisted by senior
John Calhoun. This spectacular finish secured another state title for Pall’s lacrosse team, marking the program’s eighth overall championship.
Reflecting on the season, Pall praised the team’s hard work, particularly the senior class that had been with him since his own first days at Jesuit. “These seniors were sophomores when I started,” he shared, “and watching them finish this journey was an unforgettable experience.”
As they prepare for next season, the Jays look to keep preserve the relentless energy and focus that defined their 2024 season. With returning players who are continuing to mature and with emerging athletes poised to make their mark, the team’s future is bright. Blue Jay lacrosse fans will no doubt be awaiting the Blue Jays’ return to the field as they aim to defend their championship title and make their own contribution to the team’s legacy.
BUILDING A DYNASTY
RUGBY’S THREE-PEAT STATE TITLE TRIUMPH
The 2023-24 Blue Jay rugby season began like a Dickens novel—an era of soaring triumphs and crushing challenges, of storied championships and hard-won rebuilding. Fresh off back-to-back Louisiana state titles, the Jays aimed to secure a three-peat, striving to become Jesuit’s second rugby dynasty in a decade. Ranked in the top 15 nationally in recent years, they carried both the thrill and the weight of expectation, committed to their creed: Excellence in rugby is a Jesuit tradition
Yet this year brought an upheaval. Gone were the seasoned veterans whose years of combat had molded last season’s success. Now the squad boasted only four returning seniors, surrounded by over 75 players—Jesuit’s largest rugby roster ever—most new to the game. Their task: forge these green recruits into paladins of the paddock, capable of withstanding the frenzy of top-level competition.
Rugby demands total versatility. Each player must be part quarterback, linebacker, and running back, mastering the intricacies of catching, passing, tackling, and kicking. To accelerate development, head coach Adam Massey introduced a novel tactic: he recruited the parents. Inviting them to an early-morning training, he handed each mom and dad a ball, assigning them 20
daily minutes of passing drills with their sons. This infusion of family muscle memory paid dividends, each repetition at home forging sharper instincts and stronger fundamentals. Still, to climb the national ranks, the Jays needed more than backyard sessions. Massey brought in professional coaches and players—international experts who sharpened technique and honed game intelligence. Under their guidance, the squad’s catch-and-pass rhythm improved, tackling angles tightened, and the ruck work grew more ruthless. Every training session tested the Jays’ resolve, forging unity through sweat and contact.
True cohesion emerged through live combat. The Jays scheduled numerous matches, encountering fierce rivals determined to topple the reigning champs. Facing skilled opponents built character and hammered rough edges into polished steel. The newcomers, once raw and tentative, learned to relish the contest, to embrace each heavy hit and elusive break as an opportunity to grow stronger.
Everything coalesced in the Louisiana state championship against longtime rival Brother Martin. The Crusaders arrived hungry, but the Jays were poised and battle-hardened. A scoreless standoff yielded to a
deft box-kick try by junior halfback Jonah Ory, and soon senior flanker Greg Lane, this season’s MVP, added another. Though penalties and handling errors offered Brother Martin chances, the Jays’ defense refused to buckle. Late in the match, sophomore lock Oliver Cook’s linebusting try sealed a 17-12 victory, completing the coveted three-peat.
This season’s evolution—from green recruits to champions— reflected the heart of Jesuit rugby. Now, with a three-peat in hand and experience coursing through their veins, the Jays stand ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.
the midfield— allowed the team to regain control. Senior midfielder Jack Kessels, known for his composure under pressure, headed home a cross from junior Bryce Barrere to level the score. Later in the half, a penalty awarded to the Blue Jays saw sophomore Gavin Liantonio slot the ball past the keeper, securing a valuable draw and adding fuel to an already driven roster.
Following their tense draw with Catholic, confidence only grew, leading to a decisive 1-0 victory over Newman. The team maintained a dominant 70% possession and repeatedly pressed forward, creating numerous scoring chances that kept Newman on their heels. When senior Nick Danna’s close-range shot was deflected off the crossbar, junior Graham Hemel capitalized, heading in the rebound to seal the win. This victory not only displayed the Blue Jays’ offensive prowess but demonstrated the depth in their roster, with juniors and seniors stepping up to fill any gap.
As playoffs approached, the team’s defense became increasingly formidable, anchored by senior
goalkeeper Larson Klibert , who emerged as a pivotal figure across their postseason run. In a Mardi Gras Day quarterfinal match against St. Amant, Klibert’s leadership and the backline’s discipline stifled the Gators’ attempts to break through, while the offense scored three decisive goals.
Senior Michael Stackpole opened the scoring with a clinical finish, while midfielder Aidan Obletz drilled a long-range shot into the net before the half. Later, sophomore Donnie Dovie’s towering header secured the 3-1 win, pushing the Blue Jays into the semifinals. “We pride ourselves on our defense,” Collins emphasized after the match, adding that “if you don’t give up any goals, you put yourself in a position to win.”
The semifinal victory over Dutchtown solidified the team’s status as the one to beat. Despite a barrage of shots from Dutchtown, the Blue Jays held their ground, and a lategame strike from Savoie sent them to the final match against familiar rival Catholic High. As the stakes reached their peak in the championship, Klibert rose to the occasion, making a series of critical
saves that underscored his role as the team’s defensive anchor.
“He was very instrumental to our success this year,” Collins said of Klibert. “He’s very soft spoken, but whatever comes out of his mouth, everybody hangs onto every word.”
The championship game against Catholic was an intense showdown, with both teams locking horns in a match that tested every player’s endurance. Over the 80 minutes of regular time and 20 minutes of overtime, Catholic dominated possession, outshooting the Blue Jays 10-4. But Klibert was unbreakable, making multiple crucial stops that kept the team in contention. Junior Andrew Duncan took over in the first half, adding a fresh layer of security in goal, before Klibert returned to hold the line through the latter half and into overtime.
With each missed opportunity heightening the tension, the Blue Jays finally struck in the first golden goal period. Barrere launched a free kick from 45 yards, positioning the ball just out of reach of Catholic’s defense. Liantonio’s feint pulled Catholic’s goalkeeper slightly off his
line, creating the split-second opening Dovie needed.
Dovie, finding space by the back post, rose to meet Barrere’s kick with a thunderous header, sending it into the right side of the goal and igniting a wave of celebration from players and fans alike.
Reflecting on the win, Klibert expressed the exhilaration of the moment, stating, “Unreal. I can’t even describe the feeling. The energy from the fans, the players, the parents—there’s nothing like it.” His outstanding performance earned him the player-of-the-game honors, a fitting end to a high school career that
saw him lead his team through one of their most competitive seasons.
As the final whistle sounded, the Blue Jays had not only claimed their 13th LHSAA soccer state title but had cemented a season defined by laserfocused commitment to team unity.
For Collins, it was an achievement that validated months of relentless preparation and the strategic growth of each player. “To be back here again in the championship game is what we worked really hard for all year. You earn the right to be here—there’s no ‘deserving’ anything,” he said, nodding toward the future. “Next year’s group will have to continue
on—but we know we’ll celebrate this one tonight.”
With the championship trophy back in the team’s hands, the 202324 season will be remembered as one of tactical brilliance and moments of raw athleticism that will inspire future Blue Jays for years to come. Looking ahead, the core of the team remains intact with juniors like Savoie, Dovie, and Barrere poised to lead next year’s squad. The Jays on the soccer team once again stand atop Louisiana’s competitive landscape, ready to defend their legacy.
Where Y’at?!
ALUMNI: TELL US WHERE Y’AT!
Submit online at jesuitnola.org/where-yat.
1950s
Herb Sayas ’54 spent 28 years at Loyola’s drama department, focusing on designing scenery and lighting for productions and teaching courses in stagecraft and theater history. After retiring in 2001, he began volunteering at the National World War II Museum, where he catalogs artifacts and records military documents. In 2014, Herb authored a tour guide for a company organizing World War II tours in Europe and participated in the tour himself.
# Barra Birrcher ’56, Tony Bonfanti ’56, Ted Borgman ’56, Jim Moore ’56, Tony Rainold ’56, and Pat White ’56 went to Manresa together for retreat in February. Assigned there is their classmate Fr. Rich Buhler, S.J. ’56. (Picture from left to right: Barra Birrcher, Tony Rainold, Ted Borgman, Fr. Richard Buhler, S.J., Pat White, Tony Bonfanti, Fr. Greg Waldrop, S.J., and Jim Moore)
Hank Lomasney ’56 has returned to the greater New Orleans area after having spent the last 20 years of retirement in Colorado.
1960s
John Lachin ’60 recently received the Tulane University 2024 School of Science and Engineering Outstanding Alumni Award for Professional Excellence. Dr. Lachin is research professor in the Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics of the Milken Institute School of Public Health. He has been a member of the George Washington University faculty for 51 years.
Donald Schlater ’61 was presented the Society for Petroleum Engineers Legion of Honor Award to recognize 50 years of service to the industry. Over this time, he worked in all phases of the energy business. He developed numerous training courses and taught in many of them. He was active in the development of both international and US industry standards.
Oliver Miller White ’61 and his wife are enjoying retirement in the home that they built two years ago right on the Philippine Sea.
Charles Munro ’64 was honored with certification by the Institute of Classical Architecture/Classical America as a first R/E Developer (mixed-use commercial, residential, medical, and institutional projects).
He received full certification after two years of intensive course work in New York City and Florida and was also selected for membership in the Congress of New Urbanism and selected as a guest lecturer at Rollins College, Winter Park Florida-Crummer Graduate School for the Masters of Planning in Civic Urbanism program.
William P. Coleman III ’66 received the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from Tulane Medical School. Dr. Coleman has been the editor in chief of the journal Dermatologic Surgery since 2001. He is the author of 340 medical publications plus 10 books. He practices dermatology in Metairie with his son Patrick ’95, and his son Kyle ’97 serves as an assistant editor on the journal.
1970 s
Blake Krass ’74 and Webster Veade ’74 did not cross paths often while at Jesuit, but they ended up in the greater Austin area and eventually met in 2008 at their Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree exemplification. Since then, both have served terms as Grand Knights and as Faithful Navigators. Veade, a member of the state K of C Legal Affairs
BIRRCHER, RAINOLD, BORGMAN, FR. BUHLER, WHITE, BONFANTI, FR. WALDROP, AND MOORE
Committee, was appointed a District Deputy overseeing four Councils. Krass, a former District Deputy, was appointed Master of Our Lady of Guadalupe Province District 6, which is comprised of the 31 assemblies in the Diocese of Austin.
Gerry Cvitanovich ’78 was elected for his fourth term as Jefferson Parish Coroner. In 2017, he, Granville Morse ’89, Brian Porche ’95, and their partners sold their Urgent Care company to Ochsner Health. He still works part-time for Ochsner as chief strategy officer for Urgent Care, OccHealth, and Student Health. He is also the president-elect of the National Urgent Care Association. He and his wife, Heidi, have four children. His family still owns Drago’s and now have six locations.
Mike Rihner ’78 recently released a new recording of some of his original music, “Three Orchestral Suites,” which features great performances from members of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. These original works were all composed and orchestrated by Rihner. The recent recording session was done at Esplanade Studios in New Orleans and was also conducted by Rihner. Two of suites on this recording, namely the “New Orleans Suite”
and the “Dance Suite,” were performed in Carnegie Hall New York by the Greater New Orleans Youth Orchestra, in 2009 and 2015 respectively.
Terry Cassreino ’79 was named National High School Broadcast Journalism Adviser of the Year for 2023 by the Journalism Education Association headquartered at Kansas State University. He teaches high school student media, including yearbook, broadcast journalism, and sports broadcasting, at St. Joseph Catholic School in Madison, MS, and also serves as the school’s communications director.
1980s
Randy “Guido” Schmidt ’81 was inducted into the New Orleans Track Club Hall of Fame in May. He also is president of the fifth oldest running club in New Orleans that was started by a couple of Jesuit cross country runners back in 1981. Randy owns a DMV (Ace License & Title).
Tony Toups ’81 was elected as board president of the New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity for a two-year term starting July 2024.
1990 s
Billy Davis ’94 was presented with the Distinguished Service Award by the Transportation Lawyers Association—the oldest transportation bar association in North America— for his outstanding service to the organization over the past several years.
# Patrick Quigley ’96 conducted the world premiere of “Morgiane” by Edmond Dédé, the earliest-known opera by a Black American composer. In collaboration with OperaCreole and Opera Lafayette, performances took place in New Orleans, Washington, D.C., and New York.
Quigley oversaw the performances and the recording of this historic piece, marking a significant moment in opera history.
Steve DeTrinis ’97, along with his wife of twenty years, Margaret, and their eight children, recently relocated to Oahu, Hawaii. He continues to serve in the United States Marine Corps.
Bryan Bertucci ’99 has been named Dean of Career & Technical Education at River Parishes Community College in Gonzales, LA.
2000s
Kura Karthik ’04 is a senior partner at Inspire Anesthesia Partners, PLLC, a physician-owned anesthesiology group in San Antonio, TX. He also serves as the chief of anesthesiology at Main Methodist Hospital in San Antonio.
Christopher Ragusa ’06 recently completed his PhD in moral theology at The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. He and his wife Hannah have moved back to Louisiana and are full-time professors at The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in Baton Rouge.
Alex Marse ’07 opened a brick and mortar donut shop in Old Metairie called Paw Paw’s Donuts in July. He sells brioche donuts, cinnamon rolls, and kolaches, as well as breakfast sandwiches on a homemade bun, and offers a full coffee menu.
Mathew Irimpen ’08 was recently wed to Gabrielle Christakis at St. Louis Cathedral. Groomsmen included George F. Smith ’08 , Kyle Heidingsfelder ’08 , John Peter Laborde ’08 , Julian S. Richards ’08 , Michael Shalaby ’08 , Conner L. LeBon ’08 , and James J. Licciardi ’14 They currently reside in Metairie.
QUIGLEY
Benjamin Galvan ’09 has been recognized for his achievements in the healthcare field with several prestigious awards. In 2022, he received the Pinnacle Professional Member Award from Continental Who’s Who and was named one of Becker’s Hospital Review’s Rising Stars under 40. In 2021, he was the inaugural recipient of the Emerging Leader in Infection Prevention Award from the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology and was honored with the Marquis Emerging Leader Award by Marquis Who’s Who
2010s
Warren Bondi ’10 started a brewery in Fort Walton Beach Florida called Wood Foot Beer Co. and is working on opening another coffee and beignet business in Nashville, where he is enjoying life with his wife and three children. He also built a full-service marketing company (Beer Marketeers) in the beer, wine, and spirits industry.
August Cannon ’14 recently traveled in Southeast Asia for three months. He will be pursuing a masters in counseling while teaching middle school math and science.
Dominic Engolia ’14 is a boardcertified orthopedic specialist in physical therapy. He is currently employed with Ochsner SMH Physical Therapy & Wellness treating patients in Slidell focusing on sports and orthopedic-related injuries. He owns Northshore Physical Therapy, which focuses on home-based physical therapy treatments and wellness programs.
Zachary Gandy ’16 is a first lieutenant in the Louisiana Army National Guard currently deployed to Europe as a UH-60M Blackhawk pilot.
Blake Mire ’18 graduated from Baylor University in 2022 and is working as an account executive at Sunbelt Staffing in Tampa, FL.
2020s
Ryan Castellon ’20 has be named to this year’s Tiger Twelve, which recognizes twelve outstanding seniors who, in keeping with the university’s Commitment to Community, contribute positively to campus and the surrounding community and have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to intellectual achievement, inclusive excellence, campus leadership, and service.
CALLING ALUMNI VOLUNTEERS
Jesuit warmly invites alumni to reconnect and contribute meaningfully to the school community. Your participation in school and alumni events significantly enhances the Jesuit experience. Consider engaging in opportunities such as joining the Alumni Service Corps, volunteering for your class or chapter, participating in Career Day, sharing your expertise as a classroom guest lecturer, offering career shadowing experiences, or serving as an alumni representative at Open House. Please scan the QR code to learn more.
PAUL SIEFKEN ’88, President of Fred Rogers Productions, Pens New Novel
A football player, a member of the 1988 state championship wrestling team, a rugby player at Duke University, an English teacher, an executive for Cartoon Network, a playwright, and a producer at PBS, Paul Siefken ’88 built a habit of achieving success over the two decades since his graduation from Jesuit. At Cartoon Network and PBS, he was a driving force behind shows such as Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, The Powerpuff Girls, Wild Kratts, and The Cat in the Hat
But in 2012 when he received the call to spearhead a new project called Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the opportunity would springboard him into becoming president of one of the nation’s preeminent nonprofit production companies, Fred Rogers Productions. Though Fred Rogers (better known simply as “Mr. Rogers”) was an American icon, Siefken’s leadership on Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and later projects such as Odd Squad and Peg + Cat would define American children’s television for a new generation of viewers. He has now published his own novel, reconnecting with his New Orleans roots to tell the story of the fictional Vernon Poche in Vernon Poche and the Ghosts of New Orleans. The occasion recently brought him back to Carrollton & Banks, where he was able to meet with current Blue Jays and faculty members. He spoke
“Men for others” sticks with you... men for others is real.
with students in English III under the tutelage of Danny Fitzpatrick ’09, himself an accomplished author and poet.
“Ms. Alexander first sparked my love of writing,” Siefken reflected. “I had always done well enough in English classes, but I wrote well to get good grades. After she handed my back a satiric essay I wrote, she looked me in the eye and told me it was something really special. And that was the first time I thought about writing in a new way.”
From 2017 to 2024, Siefken grew Fred Rogers Productions from a six-person operation into a 42-person outfit, all the while remaining hyper-focused on the organization’s responsibility of upholding Fred Roger’s legacy.
“I was recently speaking to one of my classmates for a podcast the Class of 1988 is doing, and he asked me, ‘How does Jesuit still inform your life?’” Siefken explained to Fitzpatrick’s class. “Fred Rogers left us a mission to educate, but in large part because of Jesuit I believe that that’s more than a surface-level responsibility. ‘Men for others’ sticks with you.”
He added, “Doing something that’s good for the world and good for people can be so fulfilling. To love going to work every day and to know what you’re doing is making a difference. ‘Men for others’ is real.”
REUNION TIME
The 2025 alumni reunion season produced another opportunity for classes to come together and celebrate the times they shared on Carrollton & Banks. While each reunion had its unique style, they all had the classic Jesuit camaraderie that will sustain each class until the next gathering. Photo galleries of each reunion event are available on the alumni section of the Jesuit website
BIB LIST
DECEMBER 1, 2023 – MAY 31, 2024
JESUIT CONGRATULATES:
Marina & Guillaume Tourniaire ’92 on the birth of their daughter Gaëlle Marie-Terese Tourniaire, July 3, 2023.
Maggie & William Davis ’94 on the birth of their son Henry “Hank” William Davis, May 15, 2024.
Nicole & Jonathan Hobbs ’99 on the birth of their son Banks Walker Hobbs, Nov. 7, 2023.
Haining Yu & Clinton Smith ’01 on the birth of their son Edmond Chunze Yu-Smith, March 31, 2024.
Jennifer & Brian Lee ’03 on the birth of their son Gabriel Joseph Lee, Sep. 5, 2023.
Erin & Matthew Bowman ’04 on the birth of their daughter Adelaide Ashton Bowman, Jan. 12, 2023.
Laura & David Cradic ’04 on the birth of their son David William Cradic II, Aug. 2, 2023.
Harini & Karthik Kura ’04 on the birth of their son Veer Kura, March 3, 2015 and their daughter Leela Kura, Dec. 30, 2019.
Catie & Michael McDaniel ’04 on the birth of their daughter Mary Catherine McDaniel, April 23, 2024. Mary is the granddaughter of Craig Parker ’72 .
Alyse & Pierre Mouledoux ’04 on the birth of their son Marc Philippe Mouledoux, Jan. 19, 2022. Marc is the grandson of Warren E. Mouledoux, Jr. ’67
Loren & Griffin Smith ’04 on the birth of their son Ellis Smith, Jan. 27, 2024.
Courtney Forson Hobbs & Matthew Hobbs ’06 on the birth of their son Oliver Nolan Hobbs, Nov. 26, 2023.
Kristin & Blake Raggio ’06 on the birth of their daughter Margot Blake Raggio, June 4, 2024.
Emily & John Faciane, Jr. ’07 on the birth of their daughter Catherine Joan Faciane, March 16, 2024.
AnneMarie & Stephen Collura ’08 on the birth of their daughter Meryl Marie Collura, Dec. 14, 2023.
Melanie & Rene Gurdian ’09 on the birth of their son Rene A. Gurdian III, April 4, 2023.
Ariana & Timothy Lala ’09 on the birth of their son Nathan Michael Lala, Nov. 13, 2023.
Haley Baudoin-Willem & Christopher Willem ’09 on the birth of their daughter Reese Jennifer Willem, June 1, 2023. Reese is the granddaughter of David Willem ’71
Genevieve & Thomas Barnett ’10 on the birth of their son Harrison Clement Barnett, May 9, 2024. Harrison is the great-grandson of Ronald Drez ’58 & William Perret ’46
Kaitlyne & Brian Carr ’10 on the birth of their son Brian Thomas Carr III, May 2, 2024. Brian is the grandson of Brian Carr, Sr. ’82
Kaitlin & Kyle Crabtree ’12 on the birth of their son Karter Jose ph Crabtree, Nov. 23, 2023.
Carrie & Alexander Sherry ’12 on the birth of their daughter Siena Catherine Sherry, March 16, 2024. Siena is the granddaughter of Dean Mettery Sherry ’83 & the greatgranddaughter of Mettery Ignatius Sherry, Jr. ’54.
Lauren & Joseph Barletta ’13 on the birth of their daughter Charlotte Elisabeth Barletta, April 16, 2024.
Greta & John Hotard, Jr. ’13 on the birth of their son John “Jack” Arnold Hotard III, March 21, 2024. John “Jack” is the grandson of John Arnold Hotard, Sr. ’80.
Alexa & Clayton Colombo ’14 on the birth of their son Cooper Jacob Colombo, Dec. 22, 2022.
Caroline & Philip Legrand ’14 on the birth of their son Charles “Charlie” Philip Legrand, April 4, 2024.
Megan & John Grieco III ’15 on the birth of their son Theon Lee Grieco, Sep. 1, 2023.
BIB LIST SUBMISSIONS
Information and images for the Bib List can be submitted by scanning the QR code provided below or at www.jesuitnola.org/bib-list
At this time, we feature only the newborns of our alumni.
In Memoriam
Jesuit remembers deceased alumni and faculty in Jaynotes, which is published biannually. The listing below includes notified passings from Dec. 1, 2023 to May 31, 2025. We continue to memorialize deceased members of the school community—with links to their obituaries and other details—on a daily basis in the In Memoriam section of our website. To notify us of a death, please complete the online form at jesuitnola.org/in-memoriam or call Jesuit’s event and volunteer office at (504) 483-3947.
J.
L.
1940s 1950s
Frank J. D'Angelo, Jr. ’45
Richard J. Ganucheau ’55
Paul D. Favron ’54
Robert J. Britsch ’55
David A. Weilbaecher, Sr. ’54
Donald R. Remson ’54
Francis X. Waldo ’54
Norbert E. Landry ’49
William J. Hankins, Jr. ’48
Julian C. McVay, Jr. ’49
Lawrence D. Wiedemann ’49
Donald
Falcon ’54
Maurice J. Robichaux, Jr. ’51
Richard
Daschbach ’54
August J. LaNasa ’50
Richard C. Cusimano ’57
Delosa A. Young ’55
Robert P. Zimmer ’56
Francis Jacob III ’57
Herbert A. Trenchard ’47
Dennis Miller, Jr. ’57
David J. Bindewald, Sr. ’64
Hughes P. Walmsley, Jr. ’63
Larry J. Schneider ’63
Clay J. Calhoun, Jr. ’63
Joseph A. Cummins, Jr. ’63
Frank C. Dudenhefer, Jr. ’63
Conrad Meyer IV ’62
John W. Gillette, Sr. ’61
Fortuné A. Dugan ’61
Raymond E. Staub, Jr. ’60
William A. Tripoli ’60
Jack C. Boudreaux ’61
Earl D. Retif, Jr. ’60
W. Donald Cashio ’59
John P. Vignes ’58
Ronald Bonck ’59
Carlo S. Bonura ’59
Robert L. Friedrich ’59
John R. Nicolini ’65
James W. Brodtmann ’64
Robert P. Guilbault, Jr. ’64
Morris C. Schwartz ’64
Randolph E.D. Robbert ’65
Christopher M. Morel
PHOTOS UNAVAILABLE
1940s
Irwin N. Shirer, Jr. ’45
FULL LISTINGS
JESUIT REMEMBERS ALUMNUS & CIVIC LEADER
Edgar “Dooky” Chase III ’67
(1930-2024)
A CPA, attorney, professor, and writer, Edgar “Dooky” Lawrence Chase III, of New Orleans, Louisiana, died February 21, 2024, at 74.
Jesuit mourns the passing of Edgar “Dooky” L. Chase III ’67, a revered member of the New Orleans community and Jesuit’s 2012 Alumnus of the Year. Chase was a prominent figure in education, business, and civic engagement.
Born into the legendary Chase family, known for their iconic Dooky Chase Restaurant, Chase inherited
Jason P. Franco ’98
Michael A. Smyer ’68
Edgar L. Chase III ’67
Normand F. Pizza ’68
William M. Sickinger ’68
Robert J. Monjure ’70
Richard P. Foley ’73
Malcolm P. Schwarzenbach III ’83
Patrick C. Uli ’76
Andrew G. Daigle ’74
David W. Capretto ’76
Robert A. Leonhard, Jr. ’76
Anthony M. Livaccari ’05
’18
Robert J. Burlet, Jr. ’67
a legacy of community service and culinary excellence. He frequently spoke publicly of his parents, Dooky Chase, Jr., and Leah Chase, who instilled in him the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of community that he carried throughout his life.
After graduating from Jesuit as part of the first integrated class, where he excelled academically while participating in the Blue Jay Marching Band, Chase continued his education at Loyola University of New Orleans. There, he broke barriers as the first AfricanAmerican president of the student body before earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration.
He went on to study at Columbia University in New York, where he obtained his MBA in 1973.
Chase’s commitment to service was evident through his tenure in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he reached the rank of Captain, and his subsequent professional roles as an audit senior at Price Waterhouse & Company and a law student at Loyola University’s School of Law. His career also included positions at Louisiana Land & Exploration Company, Cox Communication, and Dillard University’s business division.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Chase was instrumental in the postHurricane Katrina recovery
efforts at Dillard University, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to the New Orleans community. His involvement on numerous boards and commissions, including the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Crime Commission, showcased his commitment to civic improvement and social justice.
Chase’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements to his profound impact on the community. Fr. Raymond Fitzgerald, S.J. ’76 , former president of Jesuit High School, summed up Chase’s character when conferring his Alumnus of the Year award by saying, “Dooky has consistently and
assiduously used the best of his Jesuit education to promote the good of others, ethical decision making, and service of God. His selfless and humble spirit marks him as a true man for others.”
Chase’s legacy of kindness, wisdom, and love for his family, school, community will be remembered and cherished. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Alva Jean Darensbourg, their three sons—Trevor, Travis, and Edgar IV ’00 —and six grandchildren, one of whom is another Blue Jay alumnus, Trevor Chase ’21. The Jesuit community extends its deepest condolences to the Chase family during this time of loss.
Dooky Chase III ’67 attended the Alumni Homecoming Mass in 2012 with his late mother, Leah Chase, where he was honored as Alumnus of the Year.
JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL
OF NEW ORLEANS
4133 Banks Street
New Orleans, LA 70119 jesuitnola.org
Parents of Alumni: If you are receiving your son’s copy of Jaynotes and he no longer lives with you, please let us know so we can update our database and send the magazine directly to him. Let us know if you enjoy reading Jaynotes. We will be glad to send a copy to his new address and a copy to you. Email changes to alumni@jesuitnola.org
FROM THE ARCHIVES: This photograph, estimated to be from the 1930s, showcases the entire student body engaged in calisthenics in what was once a spacious yard. The image captures a moment of camaraderie and physical activity, reflecting the school's long-standing traditions.
