Jesuit High School • Portland, Oregon • Summer 2018
Age Quod Agis
Celebrating Our Grads
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Class of 2018 members Kirstin Lovely (ASB President!), Amyr Lowe, Aimee Lutz and Emma Macon at Commencement on June 3, 2018.
Features 26 Giving Back with Faith, Hope & Kindness Alumni turn family challenge into positive action
28 Class of 2018 Celebrating our recent graduates
32 Graduation Award Winners Dedicated faculty and alums of Jesuit are honored
38 Words of Wisdom Career Day presenters share their journey
44 Alumni & Past Parent Events
Departments 2 President’s Message 3 Campus Corner 1 2 Faculty Spotlight 16 Student Spotlight 17 News of JHS Jesuits 18 Athletics 20 Diversity Update 22 Auction News 24 Legacy Club 46 In Memoriam 48 Class Notes
© 2018 Jesuit High School, Portland, OR — This magazine is for and about alumni, parents and students of Jesuit High School. It is published three times a year by the communications office. Opinions expressed in specific articles are those of the individual authors. If you would like to author an article, please contact the communications office. Letters and correspondence are welcome and can be emailed to age@jesuitportland.org or mailed to JHS Age Quod Agis Magazine 9000 S.W. BeavertonHillsdale Hwy. Portland, OR 97225
ADMINISTRATION President Thomas D. Arndorfer Principal Paul J. Hogan Vice President for Development Diane L. Salzman Superior, Jesuit Community Fr. J.K. Adams, S.J.
AGE QUOD AGIS Managing Editor Erika Tuenge ‘94 Copy Editor Dan Falkner Contributing Editor Michelle Foley ‘06 Design Alaina Buller Contributing Photographers Photography and Yearbook students Printer Image Pressworks
President's Message Dear Jesuit High School community members, On Sunday, June 3, we gathered at the University of Portland to celebrate Jesuit High School’s 59th Commencement and pay tribute to the 304 members of the remarkable Class of 2018. It was a wonderful opportunity for reflection, gratitude and thanksgiving for our graduating seniors, their families, and our community as a whole. Just like St. Ignatius of Loyola sending forth his early Jesuit companions to perform missionary work across the world in the sixteenth century, we said goodbye with heavy hearts to this unique group who made an indelible impact at Jesuit. The Class of 2018 forged close bonds that allowed them to live up to the school year’s theme of “walking together with a heart that does not close in on itself, but beats to the rhythm of a journey undertaken together.” Over their four-year tenure, they performed 41,575 hours of community service with 323 different local and international service agencies, entertained us with their wonderful talents in the performing arts, produced 12 National Merit Finalists, 18 National Merit Commended Scholars and 130 members of the National Honor Society, and participated on teams that captured 28 state titles and 61 league championships in athletics. Many of these graduates would not have been able to attend Jesuit without receiving $2.9 million in financial aid over their four years from our generous benefactors. They will be attending 99 different universities or colleges and studying myriad subjects in the years ahead.
President Tom Arndorfer, Gaby Reiten '18, Matthew Lazo '18 and Luke Stream '18 celebrate following Commencement.
men students who hail from 66 different junior high schools. They describe themselves as 71% Catholic and 41% students of color. From a testing perspective, they are the most academically accomplished class that we have ever admitted. We are thrilled about their arrival and their ability to uniquely impact our community and those outside of Jesuit in the years ahead. Where were you in September 1993? I was in graduate school on the East Coast, still a few years away from starting a family with my wife, Julie, in which we would be blessed with three children—all of whom would graduate from Jesuit High School. Twenty-five years ago, the course of Jesuit’s legacy was permanently changed for the better when our school opened its doors to 260 young women. This single step of coeducation, which required years of discernment and careful planning, was the most transformational event in the history of Jesuit and the catalyst for a complete renaissance of our school. Throughout the 2018-19 academic year, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of coeducation at Jesuit. We hope that you will have an opportunity to join us as often as possible on campus to help recognize this wonderful and historic milestone.
The Class of 2018 will be deeply missed, but we hope that they return to Jesuit in the years ahead to renew their hearts and refresh their spirits. They are the epitome of our mission to graduate leaders who are truly Women and Men for Others. Here are some inspiring reflections from them regarding their experiences at Jesuit: I’m a different person today than the scared, confidence-lacking girl that walked into Jesuit four years ago. Today, I have found a passion for serving others, for learning new things, for close friendships, for hugs, and ultimately for gratitude.
As we transition into another exciting new academic year and celebrate our quarter century of coeducation, we want to thank all of you who have partnered with us to advance the mission of Jesuit High School. Your support and generosity enable students from all backgrounds to experience a transformational Ignatian education. We are deeply grateful for your belief in the mission of Jesuit High School.
I found God during my time at Jesuit. Coming from a home that is not religious, I found a little corner in my heart where God was hidden. I can guarantee you that everyone to ever go to this school knows what I am talking about when I say that Jesuit is not just my school, but my family.
Go Crusaders! A.M.D.G.
Class of 2018, go forth and set the world on fire! While our campus was quieter than usual during the summer months, we have been eagerly preparing to welcome the Class of 2022. Our newest class is comprised of 327 entering fresh-
Thomas D. Arndorfer President
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Campus Corner
Freshman World History students learn about food scarcity in global refugee camps during Jesuit's second JRS (Jesuit Refugee Services) "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" simulation.
Students Open Hearts to Global Refugee Crisis This March, Jesuit hosted special guest speaker Katrine Camilleri as part of the school's annual Multicultural Week and ongoing efforts to create connections and collaboration between JHS Portland and the global Jesuit community.
through the camp simulation, designed to shed light on the experiences of some of the world's 65 million people who are forcibly displaced by war, persecution, natural disasters, and other injustices.
Camilleri, recipient of the 2007 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award, is a lawyer and the Country Director for Jesuit Refugee Services in Malta, a small island nation situated in the Mediterranean Sea between Sicily and the North Africa coast. She spoke to students in International Studies classes about the global refugee crisis and her two decades of experience providing legal advice and support to thousands of forcibly displaced people who have arrived by boat to the island of Malta.
"I believe that sometimes we forget that the [statistics] represent real people," said senior leader Archita Harathi. "After participating in the refugee simulation my junior year, I realized that I could go beyond what I thought was possible as a high school student. I learned that as students, we could help emphasize the reality of living as a refugee." As part of the simulation, students learned about Pope Francis' call to welcome, protect, promote, and integrate migrants and refugees. They also learned about life in a refugee camp: crossing a border, food and water allocations, educational opportunities, access to medical care, and more.
Camilleri's visit came on the heels of Jesuit's second annual "Walk a Mile in My Shoes" refugee camp simulation, an experiential learning activity organized by JHS upperclassmen. Seniors and juniors led freshmen World History classes
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Campus Corner Four Decades in the Making On May 15, 2018, the Jesuit women's and men's golf teams accomplished something that hasn't been done in more than four decades: The teams swept the big-school state golf tournament taking home two 6A titles. The last time that happened was in 1972 when competitor Lake Oswego cinched wins for both their women's and men's teams. The Jesuit boys team won by a whopping 58 strokes, one of the highest leads in tournament history. To top it off, the Crusader men had four of the The women's golf team celebrates after their win at state. top five individual players with freshman Brody Marconi and sophomore Andrew Reinhardt tying That same evening just down the road, the Jesuit women's for second place, sophomore Johnny Ward taking fourth, and team secured their first state victory since back-to-back titles in senior Samir Dutta coming in the fifth spot. 2004 and 2005. The Crusader women beat runner up Westview by nine strokes, setting a course record for Trysting Tree Golf "This team had tremendous chemistry and really pushed each Club. The Jesuit girls had three individual top ten finishers and other to play at their best every day. This was the most con- All-State players, including junior Tabetha Kang in fourth place, sistent scoring team I have had in my 22 years at Jesuit," said sophomore Mary Scott Wolfe in sixth, and junior Clara Ganz head men's coach Jay Minsker, who has led the men's team to coming in the eighth spot. seven state titles during his coaching tenure and was named the 2016-17 Oregon Golf Coach of the Year. "These boys have "We worked really hard for this," said Kang to the Oregonian. represented our school, the Jesuit community, and themselves "We've been building up to this moment. It feels great to be in the highest regard. I'm honored to be their coach." with my team and to bring the title home." Varsity head women's coach Katy Williams was a guiding force behind the victory. "Katy is more than a coach, she is also a teacher, leader, cheerleader, inspirer, and godmother to our girls," says Jesuit Principal Paul Hogan. This winter, Williams was named the 2016-17 Regional Golf Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations. The honor places Williams as the top women's golf coach in the states of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming. "I have always felt that it is privilege to have the support and faith of Jesuit High School," says Williams, whose brothers Pat Becker Jr. '84 and John Becker '86 attended Jesuit during the school's all-boys era. "It is a privilege to be able to teach and learn from these young student-athletes year after year!" Men's head coach Jay Minsker said his golfers were the most consistent scoring team he's seen in his 22 years of coaching.
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A ‘Runaway’ for Women‘s Track and Field BY BRADEN JOHNSON, PORTLAND TRIBUNE
With three individual champions and good depth, Jesuit High cruised to its third consecutive Class 6A girls track and field championship at Hayward Field. The Crusaders scored 92 points. South Eugene and Sunset tied for second with 42. The Crusaders got 71 points on the track, scoring in every race except the 100-meter hurdles. And pole vaulter Annjolina Wessels and javelin thrower Sara Sanders joined 3,000-meter runner Makenna Schumacher as individual champions. Makenna Schumacher '19 (middle) placed first in the women's 3000 meter. Libby Rinck '19 (second from left) placed sixth in the same event.
Jesuit coach Nick Davis said the Crusaders knew going in they could win another team title "if they did what they were capable of doing." Still, he said, "in a big track meet, you don't expect all these things to happen at once."
Jesuit received a boost all weekend from its upper-class leadership, and 14 Crusaders wound up scoring as Jesuit got points in 11 of the 17 events.
Three individual victories got the Crusaders in sync. Schumacher, a junior, started it off by repeating as winner of the 3,000. Her time of 9 minutes, 57.99 seconds beat the runner-up by nearly four seconds.
"They knew they had that target on them," Davies said of his athletes. "It didn't deter them. It didn't make them nervous. They were just excited to show up every day and work hard."
Sanders, a junior, won the javelin by two inches with a throw of 43 feet, 2 inches. Senior Wessels then dominated the pole vault, clearing 11-9 on her third and final attempt to edge Centennial's Savannah Schultz.
SPIRIT STORE
Jesuit's point total exceeded its winning counts of 71 a year ago and 65 in 2016. It was the highest winning total since the Crusaders rang up 96 in 2011.
OPEN WEEKDAYS
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Campus Corner
The men's tennis team swept the state singles and doubles tournament to take home their third-consecutive 6A state title in the spring of 2018.
Crusader Tennis Reigns at State Championships It was an incredible season for Jesuit tennis as the men's team swept the state singles and doubles tournament to take home their thirdconsecutive 6A state title at the Babette Horenstein Tennis Center in Beaverton.
D'Abreo beat out sophomore brothers Spencer and Connor Barnett for the championship title. "I am very proud of this team. To have such dominate performance is amazing," said men's tennis coach Jeff Wood. "What is even more amazing about this is that over the last two seasons we've lost 17 seniors. To do what they did this season is remarkable!"
The Crusader women's team came in third overall with sophomore Farida Abdelmoneum placing second in singles.
The Jesuit men's team broke a Jesuit women's tennis team finished third at state. Coach Wood knows a thing or two 49-year-old record for all-time highabout dominate performances. He's led est score at the state tournament with a commanding 38 points. the Crusaders to ten state title wins in a period of eleven years and reigns as one of the winningest coaches at the school. JHS sophomore Peter Murphy claimed the men's singles title for his second year in a row, defeating Westview rival Luke On the girls side, four JHS tennis players made it to the quarLemaitre. Murphy was also named a National High School terfinals or beyond. "I am so proud of this year's women's tenAll-American for his impressive performance throughout the nis team. Going into the state tournament, the girls competed season. and performed beyond their goals and expectations," says head women's coach Kirsten Ruchaber. "We have a very young Once again, two Jesuit duos went head-to-head in the state team, and I look forward to what the future holds for Jesuit doubles final. Junior Tommy Kallgren and sophomore Jaden women's tennis."
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MUN Team Travels to 13th Annual Conference BY KESHAV SIDDHARTHA ’19
From April 12th to April 14th, the Model United Nations (MUN) club traveled to the University of Oregon in Eugene to attend the annual MUN conference. Jesuit traveled to the event for the 13th time to participate in an open simulation and discussions concerning current and potential world events. Every year, numerous Jesuit students participate in an active discussion of the world economy, the environment, and violence against varying communities in an attempt to find viable solutions to each of these respective issues. “It’s a great opportunity to learn about world events as a whole and to get a good sense of world events,” junior Sam Sherry said. “This conference was our first chance to test out all of the skills we have learned all year and meet with kids around the state to finally participate in active discussion.” Every year, different schools take on the Jesuit's Model United Nation (MUN) club traveled to the University of Oregon in April to attend the annual role of one country and in special situaMUN conference. It was the club's 13th time participating in the event. tions, for schools with a bigger student body, they may receive two countries. In past years, Jesuit has received roles including the “Big 5” This process attempts to emulate the exact process that the United Nations follows, which gives high-school students the countries like the United States and other smaller countries. chance to increase their intelligence in matters concerning foreign affairs. “This year we were representing the United Kingdom. We were at the conference arguing and trying to solve issues from the “The MUN Conference provides an opportunity for kids to talk British perspective and not the United States perspective,” club about issues that they don’t encounter in their everyday lives moderator Mr. Flamoe said. as well as think about issues from other countries perspectives,” Mr. Flamoe said. “It’s a great opportunity to expand adolescents’ minds because it gives them a chance to think about reality in a different perspective.”
Students were split into groups including the general assembly, global security, global economics, environment, health and human services, human rights and the security council.
However, more than anything, attending the MUN conference gives students the chance to have fun with their classmates as well as debate issues of substance separate from their everyday classes.
Utilizing information learned throughout the year, they argued their country’s position on these respective issues and debated effective solutions and resolutions to solving these issues.
“It’s important to me because I want to understand the world and the geopolitical climate as well as debate and argue with others,” junior Akash Chinthamani said.
After finding an amicable solution that is voted upon by every country in the committee, the committee chairs pass a resolution that will be voted on by members of the general assembly who determine if the resolution passes.
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Campus Corner Coffeehouse Creates Artistic Connections BY SYDNEY COLLINS ’18 (THE JESUIT CHRONICLE, MAY 2018 ISSUE)
Each year during the months of October, December, March, and May, the Coffeehouse committee facilitates an open mic event for the students of Jesuit High School. This evening event is completely student-run as students work hard to plan, decorate, perform, and work behind the scenes for this fun occasion. Mr. Scott Reis, who is the teacher moderator for the Coffeehouse events, finds passion from connecting with his students outside the classroom, especially through the arts. “[Coffeehouse] gives students a chance to express their musical and creative talents in a supportive and pressure-free environment,” Mr. Reis said. For almost twenty years, Coffeehouse has welcomed all students and encouraged them to attend. It is an opportunity to highlight hidden talents within Jesuit's student body. “My favorite thing about Coffeehouse is seeing students getting a big round of applause from their peers, especially those students who don’t usually get to bask in the spotlight in the spring musical or on Cronin Field,” Mr. Reis said. Senior Ryan McKelligon, a frequent performer and member of the Coffeehouse committee, has been attending the open mic event for nearly four years. “As soon as the first Coffeehouse of Elisse Jakotich ’19 performs her solo live at the Christmas Coffeehouse in December 2017. freshman year arrived, I jumped at the vocals from Ryan McKelligon, ukulele strumming by Reece opportunity to perform,” Mckelligon said. “I have always loved singing and performing, and Coffee- Takayama, hauntingly beautiful vocals from Danny Murphy, house was no different. I felt so much joy and comfort from the professional sounding guitar playing and singing from Paul Danowski, and a passionate vocal performance by Gabi Fussupportive, relaxed vibe that Coffeehouse gives off.” tolo,” Mr. Reis said. At each Coffeehouse attendees can expect to see 15-20 of their fellow classmates perform. Typically students sing, play an “I really encourage all students who have not yet attended a instrument, perform magic tricks, deliver stand-up comedy, Coffeehouse to attend. Each time I go, I am pleasantly surprised by the talents of my classmates and it’s such a great way to end dance, and more. my week,” senior Regan Rice said. “Just this year, I have witnessed incredible improv piano performances by Arnob Das, delicate finger picking and country
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JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL’S
FINANCIAL AID LUNCHEON CELEBRATING THREE DECADES OF COEDUCATION
ANARGHYA VARDHANA
KATE S. O’SCANNLAIN
Partner at Maveron, named a Forbes “30 under 30” for venture capital in 2017 — JHS ’06
CHRISLEINE TEMPLE
Senior at Williams College, majoring in philosophy and political science — JHS ’15
The Honorable Kate S. O’Scannlain, Solicitor of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor — JHS ’95
#JHSmission
DATE WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2018
JESUITPORTLAND.ORG/FAL
TIME 12-1 PM LUNCH & PROGRAM
503-292-2663
LOCATION JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL’S KNIGHT CENTER
FAL@JESUITPORTLAND.ORG
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Campus Corner A Message from Elaine Kloser: Words to Live By On April 30, JHS Drama teacher Elaine Kloser offered this stirring address to the Jesuit High Chapter of the National Honor Society. She has generously agreed to share her words with the Jesuit community.
Esteemed juniors, accomplished seniors, parents, friends, and colleagues, Thank you so much for the honor of inviting me to share some thoughts with you tonight. I was a bit stunned when the request came ... But I was also excited—at first I thought to myself, "Now I get to pull out my favorite big long words from high school Honors English and impress everybody!" But then I thought about it again. Though I love the words "indefatigable" and "prodigious" and "perspicacity," the words that I want to share with you tonight are short and simple. I wear two bracelets on my arm every day. One says "courage" and one says "hope"— words that our world desperately needs today. I need to be reminded of these words daily, which is why I have these physical insignias close to me at all times. YOU are the students who, on a daily basis, conDrama teacher Elaine Kloser's bracelets that inspired her moving message to the National tinue to give me hope and courage by your example, Honor Society. whether through your integrity and scholarship as you stretch yourself in the classroom; your selflessness as you dynamic, but to "SEIZE hope" sounds physically invigorating; serve people who live on the margins, your commitment to you have to choose to do it. "To be courageous" is fine, but to doing justice as you stand in solidarity with those who cannot "SEIZE courage" is active and delicious. If you want some good stand up for themselves, and your bravery as you give voice to drama, you totally want to SEIZE hope and courage—there is no way that the word "seize" is passive. You are making a conscious the voiceless. decision to take Hope by the nape of the neck and embrace it You give me hope and courage, knowing that there are leaders ... capture it ... elevate it. You are deliberately diving into a vat here right now who have made a difference and are continuing of Courage and immersing yourself in it. And in this place of to make a difference, not only on our campus, but in our com- action is where we meet God. munity and in our world. I love that the Jesuits call themselves "contemplatives in We did this little play called Newsies as part of the Drama sea- action." I love that my job as a drama director is to bring a son this year. The story focused specifically on hope and cour- story to life through action. It's the action piece—that seizing, age. One of the centerpieces of the story was a song in which grasping, igniting, harnessing, capturing, enacting hope and the lyrics "Now is the time to Seize the Day" were used to acti- courage—that is vital and makes it relevant NOW. vate that hope and courage. I get a little crazy when someone refers to young people as Hope and Courage are strong words, but passive until you stick "The Hope for the Future"... our "Leaders of Tomorrow." You are an action verb in front of each. "To have hope" is just not very giving hope and courage to our world through your leadership
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right now.
Dining Hall, and put just the right amount of paint in every
You are the ones who actively seize hope and courage every day. You are the ones who seized the courage to organize and bring to fruition the Walkout as we adults looked on. You seized the hope by taking a simple idea, getting down on your hands and knees and decorating our entire campus to celebrate the life of Ruby Gray while we adults observed. You are the ones who pushed the wheelchairs uphill and down twelve miles on the Senior Pilgrimage while we adults rode stretches in the school van. You are the ones who decide in a split second where to throw that ball ... whom you're gonna pass to ... when it's the ideal moment to shoot—while your coach stands cheering you on from the sideline. You are the ones who climb up scaffolding, move those sliding panels, pull the ropes on the flyrail, control 27 microphones, rock the dance steps and tell that story while Jeff and I sit in Row K watching. You work the mechanics and build that robot so it can climb; you write the notecards for your Junior paper, and build the courts for kids, and talk with that homeless person at St Francis
single square of your Chuck Close painting. You raise money for kids with cancer, you tutor your peers, you run Coffeehouse, and argue your point in Mock Trial, and experiment with solutions to bring clean water to people, and serve at Mass, and publish a health and wellness journal, and lead a small group, and recycle, and remain silent in a show of solidarity on the Day of Silence ... and you finish your Membean before midnight. In so many ways, every day, you not only embrace hope and courage, but lift them up as an example for others. Don't ever forget that scholarship, leadership, service and character are active words. You are not just preparing for your future; you are making the world a better place right now. Now, through the rest of your life, you must seize hope and courage every day. And do it in your own indefatigably, prodigious, perspicacious way.
CREATE A LEGACY "Helping to ensure that a Jesuit education is available for years to come is one of the best legacies we can think of." – June and Craig Cooley, parents of Aaron '94 and Chad '96
jesuitportland.planmylegacy.org
Faculty Spotlight: A Fond Farewell
Departing faculty and staff gather at the end-of-year luncheon in June. L-R: Fr. JK Adams, S.J., Whitney Cave, Carol Young, Margaret Scanlon, Patsy Chambers, Pat Maguire (Executive Director of Edison High School), Carol Wyatt, Amanda Williams, Kaitlyn LeClaire, and Cindee Lehmann. Not pictured: Gail Fleenor.
Celebrating Our Time Together at Jesuit At the end of each year, we are forced to say goodbye to a few beloved faculty and staff members. However, saying farewell to this year's exiting group of dedicated team members was especially difficult. With over 100 years of combined service to JHS, they will be greatly missed and fondly remembered. On these pages, we are highlighting two longtime members of our Jesuit family who have made a lasting impact during their time as a Crusader.
Patsy Chambers: A Staple of Student Enrollment for Three Decades As the “front door of Jesuit,” Admissions Assistant Patsy Chambers is often the very first person that prospective families encounter at our school. She has worked under three different principals, four presidents and four admissions directors. In her first full admissions cycle in 1988, we enrolled 118 freshmen, with a total enrollment of 439. As a comparison, we now typically enroll 325 freshmen, with a total enrollment of around 1270. As you can see, her job has grown exponentially over the years! Along with Mrs. Chambers, Jesuit also gained Gene Chambers, her husband. In addition to helping with admissions tasks and
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Carol Young: Spreading the Sound of Music Through Jesuit's Halls Twenty-five years ago, Carol Young was hired as our Choir Director. She also taught Visual Arts to freshmen for many years. Ms. Young teaches students to sing in an environment that resonates with the pure joy of performance, and believes that anyone can sing; it is a “skill that you build gradually with practice,” she says. Over the years, Ms. Young has created a choral program that has soared to new musical and artistic heights. Under her masterful tutelage, her singers have competed in the District Solo Contest and State Solo Contests for years, which has resulted in many state champions. Her choirs have also qualified for the State Choir Contests on numerous occasions. Ms. Young’s students supported the Drama and Campus Ministry programs at many events—singing at assemblies, Masses, and parent functions (to name just a few!). She also helps audition and coach singers and actors for every drama production.
mate professional who has given much to Jesuit High School. She will retire from Jesuit at the end of this school year.
Ms. Young has been a member of the professional singing group Choral Cross-Ties. She was a board member of the Oregon Music Educators Association and organized the All-State Choirs for various years. She is also the Alto Soloist at First United Methodist Church, where she will be working part-time next year.
Please join us in expressing our gratitude to Carol for her 25 years of outstanding service.
Ms. Young is a vocal music director extraordinaire and a consum-
events, Mr. Chambers has been a loyal volunteer to the athletic program and Spirit Store. Mrs. Chambers retires from J-High this June. As you can imagine, she will be deeply missed. Her attention to detail and loyalty to Jesuit is unsurpassed. Her work has touched literally every single student who has passed through these halls and has helped shape our school through the past three decades. Please join us in expressing gratitude to Mrs. Patsy Chambers for her three decades of dedicated and loyal work on behalf of the Jesuit High mission.
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Faculty Spotlight ‘Awe, wonder and joy’: Catholic schools nurture girls in STEM Working to bridge the gap of underrepresnted women in college and the workplace BY KATIE SCOTT, CATHOLIC SENTINAL
A 6-year-old Lara Shamieh was at the Oregon coast with her family when she discovered a dead shark washed up on the beach. It was rotting and smelled foul, but the little girl rushed up to investigate. “I was so excited because I wanted to see what was inside,” said Shamieh, now 40. Shamieh grabbed a piece of drift wood and used it as her first-ever dissection instrument, carefully probing and studying the cartilaginous fish. Rather than drag their daughter away from the smelly specimen, her parents told her, “We are going to sit right over there, and you tell us what you find,” recalled Shamieh, laughing that “they bathed me well that night.” She sees that day at the beach as a defining moment, an impetus for a fulfilling career in biology. Shamieh would go on to be a college professor and publish scientific papers; she currently teaches biology at Jesuit High School in Southwest Portland. Nurturing children’s natural curiosity about the world, as her parents did, is an important part of closing the gender gap that remains in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) disciplines, said Shamieh. In K-12 education, the disparity between male and female student achievement has nearly closed, but women still earn far fewer STEM degrees and are underrepresented in the science and engineering workforce.
Dr. Lara Shamieh, biology teacher at Jesuit HS, believes that nurturing students' natural curiosity about the world is important. Photo: Michelle Foley '06
according to the 2016 “Science and Engineering Indicators” report by the National Science Foundation. Equivalent data is not available for Catholic schools, but based on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, Catholic schools consistently outperform public schools in science.
In many ways, Catholic schools such as Jesuit are uniquely suited to the task of engaging girls in STEM long term. Not only can they heighten students’ appreciation of the disciplines by incorporating faith, but they also provide strong female role models, supportive communities and creative curriculums that help girls feel confident and excited about tackling STEM.
Morrell said there was a big push in schools about 25 years ago to increase female participation in the STEM fields, and that paralleled cultural changes.
Patricia Morrell, president of the Association for Science Teacher Education, said it’s crucial that more females embrace the disciplines traditionally dominated by men. Not only do they offer different perspectives and solutions but “without women, we aren’t going to fill the slots, and we are missing out on the brains of half the population,” she said. “Education is going in the right direction,” Morrell added, “but we need to keep at it.”
The approach to teaching STEM also has evolved, with schools providing more experiment-based, hands-on instruction, said Shamieh. Yet progress lags beyond the walls of elementary and high schools. According to National Science Foundation data, women earn more than 57 percent of all bachelor’s degrees in the United States but only about 18 percent of computer science degrees, 19 percent of those in engineering and 43 percent of the degrees in mathematics. In the biological sciences, more women earn bachelor’s degrees than men. Women make up half of the total U.S. college-educated workforce but compose
Imperfect progress Thanks to efforts by teachers and administrators, as well as cultural shifts, female public school students’ achievement in mathematics and science is now on par with their male peers,
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only 29 percent of the science and engineering labor force.
At the all-girls St. Mary’s Academy in Portland, student enthusiasm for STEM reaches especially high levels. More than 40 percent of St. Mary’s graduates say they intend to pursue math or science in college.
Older women “paved the way for my generation,” but clearly challenges remain, said Shamieh. “Unfortunately, there’s still the message, a subtext, that society gives girls telling them they should be weak and not smart and that it’s cute to say they don’t know something, even when they get it,” she said.
A number of studies indicate that the shift in classroom dynamics when boys are absent means graduates of all-female schools are up to six times more likely to consider majoring in a STEM discipline compared with their peers at co-ed schools.
Morrell, who as head of the STEM Education and Outreach Center works to improve STEM education for K-12 students, believes in the average classroom girls are called on less and given easier, less open-ended questions than boys. Manipulative toys such as Legos still are predominately marketed to boys, she said.
The benefits of single-gender instruction—which some believe come with limitations, such as not fully preparing girls for mixed-gender colleges and careers—have been felt at Holy Cross School in North Portland. This academic year the middle school math class is split by gender several days a week. “Middle school is such a tough time in these kids’ lives; they are hyper-conscious of what their peers think, especially the opposite sex,” said Julie Johnson, Holy Cross principal. She said in the split classes “the guys are calmer and the girls are more energized.”
For women who enter STEM fields and are raising children, inadequate support means “they often fall behind and catching up is really difficult,” Shamieh said. “The 40-hour work week doesn’t exist” for many scientists, she said, pointing out that research requires extraordinarily long hours.
For fifth-grade girls in the archdiocese, including from Holy Trinity School in Beaverton and St. Agatha School in Southeast Portland, STEM learning has been enhanced by St. Mary’s Academy’s innovative TIES (teaching, integrating and exploring science) mentoring program.
Shamieh notes the broader societal changes will not only come from women, but that men must speak up, too.
Role models and creativity Rachel McKenna is a Catholic school principal in California who wrote her doctoral dissertation on how Catholic schools fare at engaging girls in STEM.
Across the Portland Archdiocese, STEM-based participation also is high among girls in co-ed environments. At St. John the Baptist School in Milwaukie, girls make up about 80 percent of the Lego robotics class. And at Central Catholic High School in Portland there is a new club called Girls Who Code, a national program in which female students learn how to build a website, robot or app using programming languages.
McKenna, whose study was based on schools in Silicon Valley, said she found that Catholic schools have a distinct ability to foster girls’ love of math, science, technology and engineering because they have more flexibility than public schools “to think outside the box when it comes to curriculum.” They also have strong female role models and supportive family environments that similarly strengthen girls interest in STEM.
Pondering creation
The power of role models means it’s “really, really important for us female scientists to be public and be involved,” said Shamieh, adding that is especially true for women of color. Only 11 percent of bachelor’s degrees in science and engineering are awarded to minority women, according to National Science Foundation data.
Catholic schools “should try to create a community school climate that reproduces, as far as possible, the warm and intimate atmosphere of family life,” said Archbishop Michael Miller, then secretary for the Vatican’s Congregation for Catholic Education, in 2005. In her dissertation, McKenna points out that such a climate encourages girls to be risk-takers, collaborate with peers and gain a strong sense of self — all valuable in fostering an interest in STEM.
Shamieh, of Palestinian decent, recalled a recent encounter with a Hispanic student. “She told me: ‘It’s so inspiring to see someone who looks like me doing what I want to do.’”
But Shamieh said that Catholic schools also add another layer to education. Science gives the “how,” religion gives the “why,” and at their best Catholic schools unite the two, providing a holistic understanding of the world in a way that secular education cannot. For girls, as well as boys, said Shamieh, the desire to immerse themselves in the sciences, math, technology or engineering—and perhaps pursue a STEM career—can emerge when students simultaneously grasp scientific facts and experience “that awe, wonder and joy” that comes when they ponder God’s creation.
The widespread influence of women religious on Catholic education also benefits female students. Kalani Efstathiou, sixth- and eighth-grade math teacher at Valley Catholic School, said the Beaverton school’s founding by the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon in 1903 “is empowering to girls.” “The school was established by strong-willed women who are such powerful role models,” he said.
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Student Spotlight Arnob Das '18: Tech Creator and World Changer BY SAM LOUIE '16
Meet recent class of 2018 graduate, Arnob Das. A thoughtful and brilliant young man who wishes to better the lives of others and create social change through his technology. Arnob entered Jesuit’s campus as a humble freshman, lending aid to juniors and seniors in Sandy Satterberg’s Calculus AB class. Since then, Arnob has co-led Coffeehouse, Asian American Club, was captain of Science Bowl, and a member of the Rose Haven Club and Model United Nations. He has risen to be a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) star in the Jesuit community, and has made tremendous strides that extend far beyond the borders of Jesuit’s campus.
Arnob represents team Oregon at the International Science and Engineering Fair sponsored by Intel.
“I want [everyone] to know the incredible value of diversity – of ideas as well as in all other ways,” said Arnob Das. “I believe that everyone brings a unique perspective and can contribute in their own beautiful way to the advancement of the world.”
is admired, respected, and loved by his peers.” This spring, Arnob was elected by his peers to receive the Loyalty Award. The award is given to one male and one female student who best embody the profile of a graduate at graduation.
During his freshman year, Arnob made his mark on the world and placed third in Chemistry at the International Science and Engineering Fair sponsored by Intel. He returned to the ISEF his sophomore year, where he won second place in Materials Science. And, undoubtedly in his element, during his junior year Arnob earned first place in Chemistry.
“Arnob won the award with an overwhelming number of votes,” Principal Paul Hogan said. “At an assembly near the end of the year, when we called Arnob up to be recognized for his accomplishments, the outpouring of affection from his classmates and other students was astonishing and heartwarming.”
In November 2017, he participated in the Siemens Competition, a national contest rooted in innovation and research for ambitious STEM students. Arnob presented his research on metalfree magnets, which could have an effect on certain types of cancer therapies.
Arnob’s loving and compassionate character has made a special impact on the Jesuit community, especially his classmates. “I have met very few people in my short life who have the kind of heart Arnob has. Arnob’s works are amazing and draw attention, but his selfless works are only a product of who he is,” senior class president Andrew Johnson ’18 says of his good friend. “What makes Arnob so special is his constant ability to love others and that it such an innate part of who he is that it can’t help but spill into his life changing and life giving inventions. I have yet to meet a person more dedicated to the betterment of others.”
As one of three Oregon finalists, Arnob continued on to the penultimate stage of the competition: Regional Finals. Out of 4,000 students, he placed within the top five for the West region and top 30 in the nation. Arnob has become a teen hero for advancements made in computer, environmental, and biomedical field. From is research into safer forms of cancer therapy, to fabricating a material that expedites computer processing, Arnob has many outstanding achievements.
Arnob plans to attend Stanford University and major in a combination of chemistry, physics, and electrical engineering. Beginning in the summer of 2018, Arnob will be partnering with the Bill Gates’ Global Good/Intellectual Ventures Lab to make his research commercially viable through his own startup.
“[Arnob] sees beauty and diversity in the world and is the first to acknowledge that beauty in the diversity of others,” said Emily Hagelgans, Dean of Students and Activities. “He is also quick with a hug of support or joy for any of his classmates. He
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News of JHS Jesuits A Message of Prayer as We Embark on Change A MESSAGE FROM FR. JK ADAMS, S.J., FORMER SUPERIOR OF JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL CANISIUS COMMUNITY
Many changes take place at Jesuit High throughout the school year, just as it does so in the Jesuit Community. As July 2018 comes to a close, this year’s shifting of Jesuits is nearly complete.
tiative between the Jesuits West Province and the Portland Archdiocese. While his primary work will be outside of the school, Fr. Ameche will be helping Fr. Couture and Fr. Calderón as much as he can with sacramental ministry on campus. This will be the last article I will be writing for Age Quod Agis. After 12 rich and beautiful years at Jesuit High School, on Ignatius Day I will begin a new ministry at Gonzaga Prep in Spokane.
On July 31 (the Feast of Saint Ignatius), Fr. Pat Couture, S.J., who has been teaching at Jesuit since last November, will become the local superior of our community. As superior, his primary role will be to tend to the spiritual and physical welfare of Jesuits who are missioned here by our provincial.
My years here have been amazing and my heart is filled with gratitude beyond words. I will be leaving many friends and colleagues who have deeply touched my heart. However, this is most certainly not a goodbye, since Jesuit High School will always be a home for me. I will cherish the friends I have made here for the rest of my life.
Alongside that important duty, Fr. Couture will join the school’s leadership team as part of the Board of Trustees and administrative teams. He will oversee the Jesuit presence in all facets of the school, including providing priestly ministry at liturgies, retreats, confessions and so much more. On top of that, Fr. Couture will serve as a chaplain to student teams, groups, and will be full-time teacher in the Theology Department.
Long ago, Jesuits signed their letters to one another Oremus Pro Invicem—“Let us pray for one another.” That is the sentiment I would like to leave this sacred place with. I promise to pray for you all and ask for your prayers as well. With much love and gratitude,
New to Jesuit’s community this year is Fr. Christopher Calderón, S.J. As mentioned in the last issue of Age Quod Agis, Fr. Calderón comes to us from Boston where he completed his Master of Education degree at Harvard. Fr. Calderón will be teaching in the Theology Department, while simultaneously serving in a new role at the school titled Director of Community Outreach. He will also be working with Fr. Couture providing priestly services at school. Also joining the community this year is Fr. Bill Ameche, S.J. Previous to his arrival in mid-June, Fr. Ameche was serving as superior of the San Diego Jesuit Community and was the Associate Pastor at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in San Diego. His assignment includes outreach to Latino Catholics in Washington County— an exciting new joint ini-
Fr. JK Adams, S.J.
Fr. Patrick Couture, S.J. (middle) and our new Jesuits: Fr. Christopher Calderón, S.J. (left) and Fr. Bill Ameche, S.J.
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Athletics
Sara Sanders '19 competes in javelin at a spring track and field competition on Jesuit's Cronin Field.
The Scoreboard, the Psyche and the Soul automatically instill character any more than it teaches math skills? However, if we as coaches and parents talk to our athletes about the life skills we want them to learn in athletics, then it is likely they will.
BY MIKE HUGHES ’79, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
It is often stated that sports develops character, but I wish to contradict that widely held belief. Research shows that sports— in and of itself – does not develop character. In fact, long-term studies have shown that competitive team sports actually correlates to lower moral judgment in students. Multiple surveys and documented research have proven that sports does not guarantee ethical nor character growth. Before we go any further, I need to nuance these comments. As an athletic director, I firmly believe that sports have an amazing POTENTIAL to develop character. Sports can teach critical life-skills such as dedication, teamwork, poise, emotional maturity, determination, timemanagement, leadership, resiliency, honor, and so on. Multiple studies, life experiences, and numerous life-changing stories indicate that athletics can change lives for the better. However, and this is the critical difference, sports teach character ONLY IF coaches and parents are intentional about the process.
With coaches and parents, I like to discuss three levels of coaching at Jesuit: the scoreboard, the psyche and the soul. Some call it the informational, formational and transformational levels of sports. I believe it is important to be organized and intentional about all three levels so that an athletic program is holistic and profoundly shapes the lives of our youth. If so, coaches and parents will be on the same team coaching for character.
Level 1: Informational Every coach rightly spends a majority of their time here. This is the level where coaches teach the fundamentals of their sport: the offensive plays, defensive sets and other sport-specific strategies. To be a good coach at Jesuit, one must be an expert in their sport. They need to know the X’s and O’s, methodology and skills to teach technique and strategy to our youth.
Consider the following example: A group of Jesuit students walk into their first day of AP calculus and the teacher tells them they are going to prepare throughout the year to take the AP test in May. Then the teacher only has the students play basketball for the next 8 months. How are they going to do on the AP exam? Likely, they will fail and the reason is obvious: the teacher has not taught them calculus. They have not learned calculus because the teacher was not intentional about teaching them the math. Why then, do we think character development naturally occurs with sports? Does dribbling a basketball
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For parents, the biggest challenge from the grade school to high school transition is to let this level of coaching be accomplished by the coach. Since many parents are elementary and middle school coaches, there is a natural tendency to keep coaching their child throughout high school. Usually, that is not a formula for success. Students often speak of “the dreaded drive home,” when parents review with their child all their mistakes
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in the game and what techniques and skills they need to do better to improve their game. As students enter high school, we ask parents to step away from level 1 of coaching, to trust Jesuit coaches to develop proper technique and tactics with their children. However, that does not mean that the parent’s job is done. There are still levels 2 and 3, which is where coaches and parents must work together.
Level 3: Transformational. This soul level of coaching goes beyond the athletes’ goals and focuses on their purpose and essence. Here coaches and parents uphold values that help our youth become humble, trustworthy, empathetic, justice-oriented, unselfish and respectful. These traits also make for better teammates and athletes, but the effect is more indirect. At first glance, some may believe encouraging these attributes does not help win games, but I believe differently. Little things matter—in sports and in life. They matter in relationships, at work and on the playing field.
Level 2: Formational. The second level involves the shaping of the emotional and psychological aspects of our youth. A good coach quickly learns technique and tactic are not enough. If a basketball coach has a strong, 6’7 power forward, but that athlete lacks the confidence to finish at the rim, he is not going to be very effective. If a soccer coach has an amazingly fast dribbler and scorer who constantly gets red carded out of games, she must teach poise, sportsmanship and emotional maturity to this athlete.
When Coach Brian Valley challenges his track and field athletes to take a moment during the meet to thank at least one parent for their help volunteering, does that help us win track meets? I think it does. When our basketball players, after each game, make sure they do not leave any trash behind, does that help us score more baskets? Yes, discipline matters. What about when one of our star basketball players, Sam Handley, tells a confused referee that he was the last one to touch the ball before it went out of bounds? Does that help our team succeed? Honesty counts. When Jenny Marnin encourages a struggling teammate who plays the same position, which could mean more bench time for herself, does that selfless act help us win more games? Absolutely. When games come down to one point, ace, or one fraction of a second … little things matter. Teamwork, humility, sportsmanship, integrity, discipline. These are not only lifelong skills that make the world better, but in sports, they are the characteristics that give teams that certain edge.
The initial focus of the second level is to instill skills that form better athletes. Key areas of character growth in this stage include resilience, courage, work ethic, and teamwork. These important life skills will not only make our youth more competitive, but create better students, collaborative co-workers, more loving parents, and upstanding citizens of the world. Many instructors call this “double-goal” coaching, where the coach instills the fundamentals of a sport, but also promotes character traits that shape athletes into better people. Parents and coaches must work together because learning life skills can be challenging and painful. If a student comes home and complains their coach benched them for lack of hustle, do we as parents undercut the coach or do we tell our children that the coach is teaching them an important lesson about dedication and work ethic? If our athlete receives a technical foul, do we as coaches blame the referee or do we support the goal of emotional maturity and grace? Parents and coaches need to work as teammates to develop students at the psychological level, but especially at the third level of the soul.
At Jesuit, coaches and parents can focus solely on the trophy, or on both the trophy and temperament. The more I coach, the more I believe they go hand-in-hand. We need to be excellent students of the game, teach exceptional fundamentals, train relentlessly and plan strategically. But we must also touch the psyche and soul of our athletes and instill proper athletic habits. We must nurture in them the virtues of respect, humility, and collaboration. If we do, we all win just a little bit more. Not just on the court, in the pool, or on the slopes, but in the game of life.
The Crusader women's soccer team took home last year's state championship title.
Last year's varsity football team has a handful of new grads who are playing at the collegiate level this fall.
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Diversity Update
Jesuit students attend OES's 2018 Culture Shock.
A Year of Diversity, Inclusion and Action Multicultural Week
BY MELISSA LOWERY, DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Throughout Multicultural Week, students, faculty, and staff enjoyed many events. From Brown Bags to assemblies, campus was filled with an array of opportunities to share and learn about the cultures of our community.
This year has blessed us with times of grace and many learning opportunities. With a focus on understanding inclusion and diversity on campus, members of our community were able to engage in conversations that led to meaningful learning, growth and self-awareness.
The week kicked off with a schoolwide activity called The Locker Project. Throughout the week, halls transformed into beautifully diverse multicultural exhibits. Lockers and classroom doors were decorated with pictures, family trees, and flags— all items that celebrate the diverse families and cultures of our community.
Black History Month February brought many fun informative and interactive activities that provided our students with opportunities to learn about Black History Month. By giving the library’s Black History Month Activity Wheel a spin and filling out a questionnaire, students could learn more about black leaders in history and win a prize from the Diversity Office.
Multicultural Week assemblies provided students with the chance to perform cultural dances and songs, as well as share eye-opening experiences, while Brown Bags allowed our community to share their cultural heritage through word trees and discussions of diversity awareness.
Lights, camera, action! Due to the generosity of a few donors, students were treated to a showing of the blockbuster Marvel film, Black Panther. Our students were extremely excited to be part of a historical moment, and had a wonderful time seeing themselves represented on the big screen!
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As the week progressed, the opportunity for students to share their culture increased. Students and faculty received an open
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invitation to dress in traditional cultural attire, an absolutely stunning sight! Students also brought their favorite cultural family dishes to share for our lunch event, Tastes of Culture. Multicultural Week 2018 created new perspective into how diverse our school truly is, and it illustrated and encouraged the importance of community dialogue. Summits and Conferences Every year we have the opportunity to attend various inspirational summits and conferences. This year we were ecstatic to take students to the Latino Summit, the Jesuit Leadership Conference, the Asian and Pacific Islander Leadership Conference, OES’s Annual Culture Shock, and many more. For the first time in Jesuit’s history, 20 of our students attended the Black Student Summit, hosted by Westview High School, where they were able to dialogue and work with other students. Full of activities and inspirational keynotes, these events promoted meaningful learning, leadership and awareness. Students returned excited and ready to apply the tools they learned. Young Women’s Empowerment Summit In April we held our first Young Women’s Empowerment Summit, hosted by students from Gender Equality Club and Girls Inc. Attendees participated in workshops that highlighted topics such as feminism, body positivity, and women in the workforce. Keynote speaker Theresa Maxie ’97 discussed challenges women face in the workplace, perseverance, confidence, and more with attendees. We look forward to this year’s summit as we celebrate 25 years of coeducation at JHS. Day of Silence Jesuit’s Unity Club supports our LGBTQ+ student community. Club leaders and faculty collaborated to organize our annual Day of Silence, a student-led event that brings awareness to anti-LGBT name calling, bullying and harassment in schools. To demonstrate solidarity and support, students and faculty wore red on the Day of Silence. Unity Club participated in courageous conversation with faculty and students by hosting a Brown Bag about the importance of the event and sharing their own personal testimonials. African American Luncheon One of our favorite events of the year occurred on May 15—the annual African American Luncheon. This event brings together Jesuit alumni and current students to share life experiences during and after their time at Jesuit. Our current students greatly appreciate the words of encouragement and are thankful to have this opportunity every year.
Top: Members of the Class of 2018 at the African American Alumni Reception in May. Bottom: Students perform at the annual Multicultural Assembly held in March.
Welcome Back We held our Annual Diversity Family Welcome Back Picnic on Sunday, August 26 at 4 pm in the Gedrose Student Center. This picnic allowed our current and incoming families of color to gather together as a community for support and fellowship.
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Auction News
The 2018 Auction, "Fiesta Del Sol: Radiating Love," raised more than $1 million thanks to generous sponsors and donors. Left: Auction Chairs Randi and Pat Reiten and Molly and Matt Bordonaro. Right: Live music by Al-Andalus Ensemble and flamenco dancers in Hayes Plaza enhanced the event's theme.
Radiating Love: 50 Years of Generosity Fifty years ago, in May of 1968, an audience of dedicated parents, faithful alumni, and devoted friends came together to launch our very first Auction. Although there have been changes in the past 50 years, two facts remain. One is the dedication of Jesuit High School’s mission to form students of conscience, competence and compassion, and the second is the generosity of our school community in ensuring its success. Thank you!
In addition to recognizing the wonderful work of many, we turned our attention to the work of one man, our much-loved Fr. JK Adams, S.J. Surrounded by family and friends, Fr. Adams was serenaded by students singing a montage of iconic Disney songs and given a basket filled with Disney swag and a special VIP Disneyland experience. Because a Jesuit education is defined by the concept of cura personalis and our belief that our students’ spiritual life is just as important as their academic and athletic pursuits, our special appeal video featured our Campus Ministry program. All special appeal contributions were directed toward the Foundation Endowment Fund.
In celebration of 50 years of generosity, Jesuit High School’s Auction Gala honored the tradition with a Fiesta del Sol, which included live music performed by Al-Andalus Ensemble, flamenco dancers and colorful décor. It was an energized celebration of the Jesuit mission.
Bound together in a great continuum of generosity and a tradition that changed lives then, and now, and will continue to change lives in the future, the Auction raised over $1,026,000! Jesuit High School thanks you for your kind hearts and your tremendous example of giving.
Before the Live Auction began, JHS President Tom Arndorfer shared deep gratitude to all the volunteers and internal staff who spent endless hours keeping our largest fundraiser successful. Seizing the opportunity, we paid tribute to special guest Vince Teresi who was integral in spearheading Jesuit’s very first Auction in 1968, as well as past and current Auction Chairs for their leadership and tireless effort—Ted and Boni Halton (1998, 1999), Jennifer Bryan (2006), Joe and Roxanne Stapleton (2008, 2009), Kim Grimme (2016), Gina O’Neill (2016), Wendy Pernas (2017), Matt and Molly Bordonaro (2018) and Pat and Randi Reiten (2018).
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A special thank you to our 2018 Presenting Sponsors: Clearview MRI, Gerding Edlen, and Touchmark and Colleen and Werner Nistler. We are grateful to all of the sponsors, donors and countless volunteers who have made Jesuit's largest fundraiser successful for 50 years. Please save the date of Saturday, May 4, 2019 for this year's Auction!
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Thank You to Our Dedicated Presenting Sponsors Founded in 1980, Touchmark is an award-winning company providing Gold Standard hospitality in full-service retirement communities in the U.S. and Canada. The company has developed and built 13 communities with more on the way. Touchmark also formed and operates the Touchmark Foundation, an all-volunteer nonprofit. The foundation addresses key issues affecting the lives of seniors by granting scholarships, providing food boxes, funding research and more. 5150 SW Griffith Dr Beaverton, OR 97005 Touchmark.com Years supporting the JHS Auction: 20
"Touchmark’s core values ask our team members to be Allies, Friends, and Givers. In addition to its strong academics, Jesuit’s culture cultivates individuals with these same characteristics." - CEO Marcus Breuer "We are blessed to have had a Jesuit education for all of our six children. We have always been impressed with the faculty and administration and very grateful for all of their work, dedication, and love." - Founder and Chairman Werner Nistler Jr. and Vice Chair Colleen Nistler
Clearview MRI offers state-of-the-art medical imaging and a dedicated clinical staff that can provide quick, easy diagnositc services.
Mt. Scott, Bridgeport, Gresham, Cornell ClearviewMRI.com Years supporting the JHS Auction: 5
"We recognize each year that there are a myriad of very worthy recipients of every corporate sponsorship dollar, but we have developed a special place in our hearts for Jesuit. With the ever-changing and challenging field of healthcare, to hear remarkable stories of young people fills us all with hope and wonder about the future. High school students who are embarking on the precipice of their futures are the most amazing people. They remind us that everything is possible—and that is the foundation we strive for at Clearview MRI." – CEO and Managing Partner Darcy Orin
Gerding Edlen is a leading real estate investment, development and asset and property management firm recognized for its expertise in creating and owning highly sustainable, urban infill, office, residential and mixed-use properties.
1477 NW Everett St. Portland, OR 97209 GerdingEdlen.com Years supporting the JHS Auction: 4
"Jesuit’s goal of educating men and women for others compliments the mission of our Firm, which is to make our communities and neighborhoods better. With our support of Jesuit’s Auction, we are pleased to help extend the opportunity of an education at Jesuit High School to as many students as possible." – Managing Partner Molly Bordonaro
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Legacy Club
Matt '95 and Sara Wilkins Stewart '97 and their children: Carter (11), Savanna (13) and Colton (9)
Family Values Started in the Halls of Jesuit pus ministry, clubs, and service contributed to the cultivation of the compassionate, caring individuals Matt and Sara are today.
BY ANNE ROBINSON, MAJOR GIFTS OFFICER
Going to Jesuit had always been a dream for Sara Wilkins Stewart ’97.
“Matt and I would have never met if it wasn’t for Jesuit,” says Sara with a smile.
She remembers her dad, Mike Wilkins ’69, coming home from a meeting at Jesuit and announcing that the school would soon admit young women. After receiving news of her acceptance, Sara’s dream became a reality.
Matt lived on the eastside of Portland and at that time only a few students came from across the river. “We grew up together and our lifelong friends are from high school,” says Sara. “We all have a close connection to one another and to Jesuit.”
Fast forward to September of 1993: Sara’s freshman class at Jesuit made history as the first class admitted with the same number of young men and young women.
After high school, Matt attended Pepperdine University and Sara went to Loyola Marymount University. Despite the distance, the two stayed together. After college, Matt returned to Portland, sparking a successful career in sales while Sara pursued elementary education in Los Angeles and later at St. Clare’s School.
“It was a big story in Portland,” says Sara. “There were TV cameras and reporters on campus our first day of school and we were surprised by all the publicity.” Sara played varsity soccer and participated in a variety of clubs during her freshman year at Jesuit. That spring she met junior baseball player, Matt Stewart ’95, and they began dating. Cam-
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In 2002 the couple married and began a family. After taking
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time off to be with her children, Savanna, 13, Carter, 11 and Colton, 9, Sara found her true passion at De La Salle North Catholic High School as their Events and Corporate Outreach Manager. “Advocating for others is who I am,” says Sara. Matt and Sara strongly believe faith-based education gives children a foundation that, although they might not realize until later in life, is instrumental in how they view the world. “It is a challenge today to raise responsible children who have empathy and compassion for others,” says Sara. “Jesuit instills this concept of social justice and service to others that we hope our children will experience firsthand as future Crusaders.” Savanna, Carter and Colton attend Cathedral School where Matt and Sara are active volunteers. The family finds joy in volunteering together and continuing the tradition of service at the annual JHS Alumni Food Drive. “Sara and I try to live our lives as men and women for others and to teach the values that we learned here at Jesuit to our three children,” says Matt.
“Sara and I try to live our lives as men and women for others and to teach the values that we learned at Jesuit to our three children.” – Matt Stewart ’95, Legacy Club member
Several years ago the couple felt the responsibility as parents to have a plan in place for their children’s future. “During the process it was a natural and easy decision for us to include Jesuit in our estate plans,” says Sara. Matt emphasizes that it is not a requirement to be a particular age or have a certain amount of money in the bank to be a part of the Legacy Club: “It is about supporting the Jesuit mission and the students of today and tomorrow any way we can,” says Matt. “Jesuit is a very special place to us; our education helped shape the foundation of our marriage and family.”
WE ARE GRATEFUL TO LEGACY CLUB MEMBERS LIKE SARA AND MATT WHO ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE FUTURE OF JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP CREATE A LEGACY FOR JHS, PLEASE CONTACT DIANE SALZMAN, VICE PRESIDENT FOR DEVELOPMENT, AT 503-291-5497 OR VISIT JESUITPORTLAND.PLANMYLEGACY.ORG.
Top: Carter, Savanna and Colton Stewart Bottom: Matt and Sara during their college years in Southern California
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“People can do one kind act ... and it can snowball.” – Brock and Bryson Thompson
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GIVING BACK WITH
FAITH, HOPE & KINDNESS BY KATHY BAARTS, ALUMNI DIRECTOR
Life is a mixture of joys and challenges, and sometimes, our greatest joys come from the challenges. For Aristotle ’96 and Sarah ’98 (Brock) Thompson, this proved to be the case in their family of six. Two years ago, their family experienced a day that will forever be etched in their memory. While playing in the backyard with Brock, 4-year-old Bryson fell to the ground and began shaking. Bryson's seizure was the longest 15 minutes Sarah had ever experienced. Later in the ER, doctors diagnosed Bryson with epilepsy. The pediatric neurologist gave the young boy medication and thus began the rollercoaster of ups and downs in their lives. On a good day, Bryson would experience nine grand mal seizures. On a bad day, he might have more than a hundred. Their family tried everything – numerous doctors, intense research, and a strict ketogenic diet, which seemed to help. Last May, Bryson underwent surgery to have a vagal nerve stimulator (VNS) placed in his chest. The device sends a signal to his brain every three minutes to help reduce the frequency of seizures. And when a seizure does occur, Sarah and Aristotle are able to stop the episode by swiping a special magnet across Bryson’s chest, where the VNS is implanted. While a change in nutrition, medication and the VNS have helped, the seizures continue and they are unpredictable. Bryson can go five days without one, and then have 15 in one day. His doctor describes the aftermath of each seizure as making Bryson's body feel like “running a marathon with a migraine and, upon finishing, getting hit by a truck.” They are all amazed that Bryson can bounce back so quickly after each episode. “He is a strong little guy,” says his mom, Sarah. After one of his worst days – 100 seizures within 18 hours – Bryson was prescribed a helmet to protect his head. But, as most young boys would, he quickly outgrew the head gear. His parents were left to battle with insurance, who deemed the helmet as medically unnecessary. Luckily, Sarah and Aristotle learned about Jack’s Helping Hands, a non-
profit in the San Luis Obispo area that helps families with cancer and special needs. The organization stepped up and fit Bryson for a helmet the following day. And for every out of town appointment, they helped the family with lodging, food and gas. As Jesuit alumni, both Sarah and Aristotle grew up with a strong sense of faith and a drive to do all they can to touch the world with kindness and hope. They raised their children with these same values, and it shows. The two boys, Bryson and eldest Brock, wanted to give back to Jack’s Helping Hands in return for the help their family received. With help from their grandpa, Stan Brock ’76, and great uncle, Pete Brock ’72, both former NFL players, they reached out to current players and shared their story. The boys requested signed helmets to donate to the upcoming Jack’s Helping Hands auction. "As a parent, to see your children wanting to give back in such a big way, even when one of them is in the fight of a lifetime, is an absolute honor and touches me to my emotional core," Sarah said. "The fact that they want to be able to help kids nationwide and someday worldwide is unbelievable." The outreach was successful. Their signed helmet donations multiplied quickly and word about their good deeds spread. The young boys created their own charity organization called Helmets4Helmets. The Thompson family was invited to appear on The View, attend a We Day celebration in Los Angeles, and be featured on an upcoming primetime television special in August. Some of their favorite signed donations include helmets worn by Tom Brady and Odell Beckham, Jr., a jersey from Kobe Bryant, a basketball from Erik Spoelstra ‘88 and the Miami Heat, and a helmet from Vikings player Mike Remmers ‘07.
The Thompson family at a New Orleans Saints football game in 2017. L-R: Payton, Brock, Sarah '98, Lennon, Aristotle '98 and Bryson.
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Helmets4Helmets' initial efforts at the Jack’s Helping Hand auction raised $18,000. Age Quod Agis is alive and well in the Thompson family. Brock and Bryson continue their acts of kindness by helping to provide protective medical equipment to children nationwide. Their goal is to help millions of children get the medical equipment they need and deserve. They are truly young men for others.
Class of 2018 VALEDICTORIAN Robin Tan SALUTATORIANS Jude Augustine Archita Harathi NATIONAL MERIT SEMI FINALISTS Carter Strear Vikrant Sharma NATIONAL MERIT FINALISTS Jude Augustine Leo Deng Nicolas Enriquez Archita Harathi Britney He Neha Iyer Aparna Jayakumar Dean Santos
Joshua Schumacher Aaron Sha Robin Tan Andrew Tung
Emily Shannon Molly Shields Guy Symonds Burke Wilebski
NATIONAL MERIT COMMENDED STUDENTS Katelin Amann Andrea Bian Savannah Castaneda Evan Chandlee Arnob Das Claire Devine Josie Donlon Darke Hull Sahana Jayaraman Samir Johnson Nikita Lalwani Griffin Langsdorf Caroline Lee Alec Schuler
SENIOR SPEAKERS Nathaniel Jack Clevenger IV Nicole Goffena
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SENIOR LOYALTY AWARDS Arnob Das Brigitte Mepham FR. HENRY SCHULTHEIS, S.J. CHRISTIAN COMMITMENT AWARD Katelin Amann JESUIT SCHOOLS NETWORK AWARDS Gabrielle Reiten Luke Stream
DEPARTMENT AWARDS Band: Darke Hull Campus Ministry: Meghan Gorman & Justin Manahan Chinese: Lauren Paglinawan Choir: Madeleine Smith Christian Service: Anna Rask & Claire Devine Computer Science: Cruz Barnum Diversity: Archita Harathi & Judith Pacheco-Lujano Drama: Paul Danowski English: Aedan Mills French: Sahana Jayaraman History: Carter Strear Journalism: Andrea Bian Mathematics: Archita Harathi Photography: Nicholas Nelson Physical Education: Julius Correl & Trevor Gewant Science: Carter Strear Spanish: Anna Rask Student Government: Katelin Amann Technical Theatre: Annjolina Wessels Theology: Brigitte Mepham & James Pecore Yearbook: Kathleen Tobin & Regan Rice
CLASS OF 2018 STATS 12 National Merit Finalists 18 National Merit Commended Students 202 Presidential Academic Award Winners 130 National Honor Society Members (3.60+ GPA plus service and leadership) AP Exams – Spring 2018 533 AP Exams to 331 students 89 percent of students who took AP tests received a score of 3 or more. 65 percent received a score of 4 or 5, the highest possible score. Total Hours of Christian Service: 41,575 Average Christian Service Hours per Student: 136 (only 65 hours of service per student is required) College Bound: 99 percent +
TEACHER RECOGNITION Educator of the Year: Dan Falkner Sandy Satterberg Award for Excellence in Ignatian Pedagogy: Megan Mathes
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2018 GRaDUaTIOn aWaRD WInneRS The following recognition is awarded by the president each year and presented to the recipients at Commencement. The Alumnus of the Year Award, Age Quod Agis Award, Pedro Arrupe, S.J. Award, and St. Peter Canisius Award all honor individuals whose deep dedication and commitment to Jesuit High School have left an indelible mark on the school and its community.
ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR AWARD Michael Casey '70 Each year, Jesuit High School presents the Alumnus of the Year Award to an individual whose actions and deeds represent the values of Jesuit High School as found in the Profile of the Jesuit Graduate at Graduation: open to growth, intellectually competent, loving, religious, and committed to doing justice. This year, Jesuit High School is pleased to present the Alumnus of the Year Award to Michael (Mike) Casey ’70. Mike’s ties with Jesuit High run deep. He and his seven siblings grew up in the Raleigh Hills area of Portland. Their father, John, provided invaluable legal assistance with the Jesuits’ initial purchase of land and the establishment of Jesuit High School on the property in the 1950s. Three of Mike’s older brothers attended Jesuit (Tim ’62, Pat ’63 and Dennis ’66), making it inevitable that Mike would follow in their footsteps. During his time at Jesuit High, Mike ran cross country and track, and played basketball and football. He was a member of the football program that tied for Jesuit’s first football state championship in 1967 and won the state championship outright in 1968. He was on student senate for three years and involved in the service organization Sodality for three years. “Jesuit felt a lot like home,” says Mike. “Some of my best memories from my years as a student are closely tied to our dedicated teachers and coaches, and their abilities to steer us in the right direction during a critical time in our lives.”
for Blue Ribbon, which officially became Nike one year later. Mike and Mary continued moving as they worked abroad. Over the next 13 years, they had the opportunity to live and work in Bangkok, Thailand; Shanghai, China; Belgrade, Yugoslavia; Tokyo, Japan; and Auckland, New Zealand. Mary, Nike’s first female expat, worked at Nike until 1984. Their daughter, Emily, was born in 1985, and son Conor was born in 1988.
After graduating from Jesuit in 1970, Mike attended the University of Oregon where he played football. He met his wife, Mary, in college and they were married in 1973. Mike earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Park Management in 1974. He worked a variety of different jobs before landing at Blue Ribbon Sports in 1975, a choice inspired by close friend and running legend Steve Prefontaine. Mary joined Mike at Blue Ribbon in 1977.
The Casey family returned to Beaverton to establish roots in 1993. Mike, who continued working at Nike, reconnected with his Jesuit High classmates and became integrally involved with the Alumni Food Drive, now in its 33rd year and guided by fellow devoted alums like Dave Kopra ’73 and Bobby Keerins ’73. “Many hands make light work,” says Mike, who ferries hun-
In January 1979, Mike and Mary moved to South Korea where Mike was involved in footwear development and production
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dreds of packed food boxes from the Gedrose Student Center to curbside each December to ensure that more than 1,800 families receive food during the Christmas season. Mike was part of Jesuit’s Alumni Council for several years and was involved with procurement when Mary was the school’s Auction Director for the 2004-2006 auctions. Mike views his nearly three decades of volunteerism at Jesuit as a natural extension of his experiences in high school. “It was that spirit of camaraderie and of being ‘men for others’ (now ‘women and men’) that resonated with me,” recalls Mike. “It is better to give than to receive.” Mike worked at Nike until he retired in August 2017. Besides volunteering his time at Jesuit, he remains active in the surrounding community and internationally. He and Mary have gone on nine medical missions to Guatemala with Faith in Practice, led by Mike’s classmate Dr. Jim Stempel ’70.
Dan, Emily (Casey) '03 and Michael Keller, Mike '70 and Mary Casey and Conor Casey '07
Mike also coached an impressive 14 seasons of youth basketball and baseball when his children were growing up. Both Emily ’03 and Conor ’07 are continuing the family tradition at Jesuit—Emily (Keller) as a teacher and Conor as a coach with the baseball team.
Mike has been a server at Blanchet House for more than 25 years and helps with the non-profit’s fundraising breakfast each year. Mary was on the fundraising team for Blanchet House’s $13 million campaign for a new building in 2008. Mike served on the Police Activities League of Greater Portland Board of Directors for 20 years.
Mike has these words to impart to the Class of 2018: “Every day is a new opportunity to experience, explore and help.”
AGE QUOD AGIS AWARD Carol Wyatt The motto of Jesuit High School is Age Quod Agis, “Do Well Whatever You Do.” The President’s Age Quod Agis Award recognizes individuals who have “done well” in the context of their association with Jesuit High School. This year, Jesuit High School is proud to present the Age Quod Agis Award to Dr. Carol Wyatt. Carol grew up in North Portland and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1990. Carol recalls always excelling at math. She took every math class offered at Jefferson and participated on the school’s accomplished dance ensemble team. While working at Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour her junior year in high school, Carol met her future husband, Todd. After graduating from high school, she attended the University of Oregon. Three months later Todd was called to serve in the Gulf War. The couple moved to Portland and married in December 1990. Carol graduated from the University of Portland in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education. She taught math and science at The Catlin Gabel School and Oregon Episcopal School and co-directed Summerbridge, a program for underrepresented gifted children, until 1997. Carol spent the next few years at home with her two young children. In 1999, she began teaching math to
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Ignatian Pedagogy in 2012 for her use of Ignatian principals in educating the whole student. In 2013, Carol’s assumed the role of Vice Principal of Professional Development and Instructional Technology. That fall, she helped to successfully launch Jesuit’s 1:1 program, a massive endeavor precipitated by extensive research and planning on the part of the school’s 1:1 team, of which Carol was an integral part.
Carol Wyatt assists Davis Chimento '15 with his new iPad during Jesuit's inaugural iPad rollout.
middle schoolers at Holy Trinity while earning her Masters Degree in mathematics from Portland State University.
Carol went on her first Encounter in 2003, which she calls a “transformative life experience,” then helped coordinate other Encounters for the next 13 years. Drawing on her past experience in dance, for three years Carol oversaw the JHS cheerleading program. She also fueled the spirit behind the Social Committee, coordinated the Grad Night Party Committee, and helped with countless other initiatives, including leading her department through an analysis of options for electronic textbooks as the school stepped further into a digital future.
Carol was hired as a math teacher at Jesuit in 2001. Although initially she did not know much about Jesuit education, she quickly learned and embraced its tenants. Together with such notable educators as Teri Stroschein, Peggy Lucas, Dr. John Gorman and Karen Love, Carol joined a department that was determined to make Jesuit’s math program one of the best in the state. In 2006, she established the school’s first statistics program. “I thought it was important for our students’ futures for them to have experience with statistics at the high school level,” says Carol. “It is very rewarding for me to now see how our students apply those mathematical concepts.”
In 2016, Carol became Dr. Carol Wyatt when she obtained her Doctoral Degree in Organizational Leadership and Development at the University of Portland. In the words of one of her colleagues, “Carol is an exemplar of the harmonious development of human gifts: spiritual, religious, intellectual, physical, emotional, and aesthetic.”
In 2010, Carol earned her Masters Degree in statistics from Colorado State University. She juggled her online classes while teaching full time and raising her children. When it became clear that Jesuit would be transitioning to one-to-one computing where each student would have an electronic device to access digital course materials (called “1:1”), Carol was a natural fit to become Jesuit’s Director of Professional Development in 2012. This role allowed her to work closely with teachers and provide them with technological tools to be successful in the classroom.
When Carol transitions from Jesuit this summer, she and her husband will be enjoying the scenic beauty on their 103-acre ranch in Union, a small town in Eastern Oregon. This fall will find her back in the classroom teaching at nearby Baker City High School and cheering on Paul ’15, a junior at Oregon Institute of Technology, and Jessica ’13, a nurse in Montana.
“I was excited about helping teachers with technology while still being able to teach a class,” she says.
Carol has these apt words for the class of 2018: “The three most important things are God, family and math. Trust your faith. Invest in your family. Follow your passions.”
Carol received the Sandy Satterberg Award for Excellence in
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Carol has also been instrumental in coordinating workshops and summits on campus, including the Teaching Mindfully Conference keynoted by John Media, the Coaching for Character Conference with John Brown, and TEDx Youth for students and alumni.
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PEDRO ARRUPE, S.J., AWARD Gail Fleenor Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJ served as Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1965 until 1983. He gave one of his most famous speeches in 1973 when he proposed the educational objective to form “men and women for others.” Jesuit High School’s Arrupe Award honors and recognizes those whose service is a model of what it means to be a person for others. This year we are pleased to present the Pedro Arrupe, SJ Award to Gail Fleenor. Gail grew up in a large, extended family in Cheyenne, Wyoming. She attended the University of Wyoming on an academic scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. She subsequently obtained her teaching certificate at the University of Wyoming and taught for 14 years at a junior high school in Cheyenne. In 1989, Gail’s husband, Chas, accepted a work transfer to Oregon and the family moved to Portland. Gail took a part-time position as a guidance counselor for ninth graders at YamhillCarlton High School. After one year, she began teaching art at Oregon Episcopal School. In the early 1990s, all-boys Jesuit High School was on the precipice of coeducation and hiring more teachers across various disciplines. When Gail heard about a part-time opening for an art teacher in 1991, she thought it posed an interesting challenge and applied. After she was hired by principal Dick Gedrose, Gail recalls thinking, “This is where I am supposed to be.”
Gail led the campuswide art therapy project on Ruby Tuesday. Pictured with her are Sam Arnot '17 (left) and Donald Joyce '16 (center).
gram. Gail’s creativity and design skills are evident throughout the fabric of the school, from the PAC to the chapel remodel to the cross design to the beautiful creations for the annual Christmas Anticipation Mass.
When Gail assumed the reins of Jesuit’s art program, the school had not had an art teacher for some time and the program consisted of a hodgepodge of different classes. She first taught two freshman art classes and a combination class of Art I and II. Not too long afterwards, she began teaching full-time and another art teacher, Maurice Fykes, was hired.
During many schoolwide projects, Gail ensured that her students were also involved. “One of my goals has always been to help students understand that with their gifts, they also have an obligation to be generous. Viewing one’s gifts as an opportunity for service is something that we have always tried to incorporate as a fine arts department.”
As Jesuit’s student population grew after coeducation occurred in the fall of 1993, Gail was instrumental in a complete renaissance of the art program. “Teaching in a coed environment allowed for additional opportunities,” says Gail. “From drawing to painting to printmaking, we were able to experiment with art in a lot of new and different ways.”
In addition to guiding the art program to unprecedented heights at Jesuit, Gail has also been instrumental in the life of the school. She successfully coached chess for many years despite having no initial experience. Her responsibilities grew over the years at the helm of both the chess club and chess team, which placed several times at the state tournament.
Gail was integral in the design and planning efforts for Jesuit’s state-of-the-art Alex L. Parks Performing Arts Center (PAC), which opened in 1998 and allowed for even greater opportunities for all facets of the school’s rapidly growing fine arts pro-
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Gail—in tandem with fellow educator Lloyd Thacker—established Coffeehouse around 1995. Over two decades later, Cof-
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feehouse is a thriving space for students to perform in front of their peers on Friday nights. Gail also moderated Cantos, Jesuit’s literary journal, for a few years and was involved with Unity Committee, Art Club, and a multitude of hiring committees and retreats. Gail was named Jesuit’s Educator of the Year in 1996. One of her former students eloquently sums up some of her most enduring qualities: “Mrs. Fleenor is the rare educator who seeks to build understanding and passion in her students. She truly inspired me to not only pursue my passion for art, but also for life. She is more than a teacher; Mrs. Fleenor is an example and an inspiration.”
Gail and her good friend, Al Kato.
friends at the University of Wyoming, may very well get involved with their art department in the future.
When Gail retires from Jesuit this June, she will join her husband in Wyoming, where he has been building a new house on their 40 acres. They will be living only 50 miles from their daughter Hannah and her family. Gail, who still has
Gail’s advice to the class of 2018 is powerful: “Look for someplace you can be you, and be the person God made you to be.”
ST. PETER CANISIUS AWARD Fr. J.K. Adams, S.J. St. Peter Canisius, SJ is the patron saint of Jesuit High School. A contemporary of St. Ignatius of Loyola, he was a famous scholar, preacher, writer, and teacher. The Catholic Church canonized him in 1925. This year we are pleased to present the St. Peter Canisius Award to Fr. JK Adams, SJ.
entered the Novitiate in Portland, Oregon. In 1987, Fr. JK professed his first vows, then attended St. Michael’s Institute where he earned his undergraduate degree in Theology and Philosophy. He began teaching Theology at Jesuit High School in the fall of 1989. After two years of teaching, Fr. JK left to undertake studies at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley in 1991.
Fr. JK grew up in Great Falls, Montana. He graduated from high school in 1974 and attended Pacific Lutheran University from 1974-78. During college, Fr. JK decided to take a year off and travel to Africa with the Lutheran Church. While in Africa, he had the invaluable opportunity to visit the Holy Land.
In 1994, Fr. JK earned his Master of Divinity at Berkeley and was ordained a Deacon. He subsequently was missioned to Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane to teach Theology and work in campus ministry. He was ordained a priest at St. Aloysius Church on Gonzaga University’s campus in 1995 and spent the next five years teaching at Gonzaga Prep. He became Superior of the school’s Jesuit community in 1999 and the Provincial’s Assistant for Secondary Education (all of this on top of teaching two periods each day!). On January 12, 2001, Fr. JK professed his final vows as a Jesuit.
In 1978, Fr. JK went to live with his sister in Havre, Montana. He was first introduced to the Jesuits through the parish of St. Jude’s Church in Havre. Fr. JK was impressed with the Jesuits and eventually converted to Catholicism. He was hired as the church’s Director of Religious Education in 1979, a position he held for the next six years. Fr. JK loved and admired the Jesuits at St. Jude’s. “The idea of ministry was already in my head, but they reinforced and solidified it,” he says. He joined the Society of Jesus in 1985 and
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In 2003, Fr. JK embarked upon a new chapter in his life as Provincial Assistant for Secondary Education and Formation
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(then Assistant for Formation when a new Provincial’s Assistant for Education was designated in 2004). Fr. JK added Province Treasurer to his job duties in 2004.
teams, including the varsity football team and the varsity men’s lacrosse team. He fondly recalls serving alongside Teri Stroschein and then Elaine Forde as coordinators on many November Men’s Encounters.
Fr. JK returned to Jesuit’s campus in 2006 to teach. “I loved coming back and teaching at Jesuit,” says Fr. JK. “Teaching is what God called me to do.”
This summer, Fr. JK will come full circle when he is missioned to return to Gonzaga Preparatory School. He will be reuniting with many family members and friends, and with Jesuit High alumni who attend Gonzaga University. “There are many Jesuits that I know, love and respect in Spokane,” says Fr. JK. “I am looking forward to living and working with them.”
While he taught at Jesuit High, he remained Province Treasurer until 2008. He was also named Superior of the school’s Jesuit Community. Fr. JK has been teaching Theology at Jesuit for the past 12 years.
“I’ve enjoyed all the places that I’ve been over the years,” says Fr. JK. “I’ve been able to become great friends with students and their families and with the people I meet and work with every day.” To the class of 2018, Fr. JK offers these words, “Love everyone the way Jesus loves you!”
In addition to teaching, Fr. JK has served two terms on the school’s Board of Trustees and was on the Board of Members of the Province for 13 years. He has led the Knights, Jesuit’s faith formation group for young men, since 2006. Among his countless duties in campus ministry, Fr. JK attends and ministers on Encounters and the Freshman Overnight and Sophomore Overnight Retreats and acts as chaplain on the Pilgrimage, the 12-mile spiritual walking journey for seniors.
Fr. JK is a beloved Jesuit priest, who has faithfully followed in the footsteps of Saint Ignatius, serving as a role model for Catholic values and embodying the Jesuit mission. Fr. JK has made an indelible impact on all of us at Jesuit High School, both personally and as a whole. He will leave our community a much better place than when he arrived.
Fr. JK has also served as chaplain for a variety of athletic
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WORDS OF
WISDOM
Career Day presenters share journey with JHS juniors BY KATHY BAARTS, ALUMNI DIRECTOR
With alumni, parents and friends representing 21 different industries, Career Day was filled with stories and advice for our future Jesuit grads. Keynote speaker Brittany Leaverton ’08 started the day by giving our students permission to change the course of their journey at any time. She shared the story of her decision to stop playing soccer in college. That decision opened the door to her study abroad experience, where she discovered her passion for education. "It's okay to change your path," she said. Brittany assured students that self-reflection and being your own advocate can help make those tough decisions. Her good advice didn't stop there: “Use your networks, whether it is friends, family, schools, to gain accessibility into your passions. Stay involved and stay true to your village.” The rest of the day was full of equally positive and inspiring messages for our students.
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WORDS OF WISDOM
Jeremy Burroughs ’95 What college did you attend and what was your major? I attended the University of Washington. My major was Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (Accounting Concentration). What is your occupation? As ESCO Corporation’s Vice President of Tax and Treasurer, I oversee the Company’s global tax and treasury functions. With respect to tax, I work with my team to ensure that all tax filings are filed in an accurate and timely manner and that external financial reporting is performed in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Further, I work to ensure that ESCO’s operations are structured in a tax efficient manner. From a Treasury perspective, my team and I work to efficiently deploy capital throughout the world to grow in our chosen markets, while maintaining compliance with financial institution covenants. What do you love about your job? I love the pace of change and operational complexity faced by global organizations like ESCO. It is fulfilling when I am able to offer solutions that allow the Company to achieve its goals through efficient and effective operations. What are your challenges? Maintaining personal and professional balance has been a challenge throughout my career. Rapid change and complexity can be both a blessing and a curse, especially when coupled with the connectivity offered by modern technology. There is never a shortage of work to be performed, but it is equally important to be vested in the personal lives of family and friends. What advice do you have for our students? Throughout your career, maintain a long-term perspective. Put forth full effort on daily tasks while positioning for the future. Celebrate successes and be open to learning from mistakes.
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Career Day Presenters Thank you to all of our presenters! You made the day such a success, and we are grateful that you were here. Joel Augee '85 Jennifer Barr Kevin Barton '96 Sgt. Jeff Boivin Julianne Brands '08 Jeremy Burroughs '95 Andrea Casey' 97 Criag Cooley Alecia Darm '04 Jerry Davis Kathy Dodds Patrick Duffy '68 LEFT: President Arndorfer watches the Career Day keynote speaker with our students. RIGHT: Brittany Leaverton ‘08 started the day with an inspiring message.
Kayl Enders Bart Ferguson '84 Ted Ferguson '87 Patrick Foley '06
Emily Whiting ’04
Larry Jackson '86 Amanda Jewett
What college did you attend and what was your major? University of Oregon, Journalism: Advertising What is your occupation? Nike App Business Director, Nike Digital Commerce What do you love about your job? I love working in a field that is constantly changing. I have to read, ask questions and evolve daily to be successful in my role. I also enjoy working at a company that fosters a teamwork mentality because I truly cannot accomplish anything on my own. I have to work cross-functionally to accomplish my professional goals. What are your challenges? At a large company, there can be so much stuff that gets in the way of what really matters. Regularly re-prioritizing and identifying top priorities help me stay on track. What advice do you have for our students? Be open to the journey. I started at one university and finished at another. I started in one career and am now in another, which will probably not be the career that I'll retire from. The journey is not linear and every experience gained will help you with the next.
Mark Kreutzer '77 Mike Kroon '85 Matt Markley '04 Trevor McBride '05 Dr. Dave McBride '76 Dr. Mark Mertens '73 Sean Milstead '96 Mike Pranger '74 Adam Pranger '98 Valerie Rice Rob Skokan '86 Monica Spoelstra Metz Brian Sullivan '82 Marianna Thielen '00 Jordan Turel Elliott Waksman Michael Washington '80 Emily Whiting '04 Matt Wilcox '05 Our next Career Day will be April 4, 2019
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WORDS OF WISDOM Patrick Duffy ’68 What college did you attend and what was your major? BA Occidental College 1972, major in Religious Studies. MBA Harvard University 1976 What is your occupation? I am President of three manufacturing companies, American Machine & Gear, Nu-Tech Machining and North American Mechanical Services, as well as their holding company, Duffy & Kinne. What do you love about your job? I love serving the needs of our customers and our employees. It’s all about helping people. I also enjoy finding new and different ways to better serve their needs. What are your challenges? My challenges right now are finding enough people with the right skills to do the work that our customers need and getting the new machinery and skills in place to better serve the customers. What advice do you have for our students? It is very unlikely that someone your age already knows what your career path will be. If you think you already know, you are probably going to be wrong. With all due respect, you don’t have enough experience and exposure to the world to make a good choice. Your career may not even exist yet! Instead of deciding now whether you want to be a doctor, lawyer, teacher, business executive or whatever, you should think carefully about what skills you have and what type of things you like to do. For example, I was not very good at geometry, so when I knew more about what careers there were, I knew that becoming an architect wouldn’t be right for me. On the other hand, I am very organized, so setting up systems and procedures as a business owner seemed to fit me. One more thing for right now: Continue taking math every year, as painful as it may be at times. If you don’t, you will arrive at college with a large number of career paths effectively already closed off to you.
Julianne Brands ’08 What college did you attend and what was your major? Santa Clara University, double major in Political Science & Economics What is your occupation? Venture Capital. I’m a Partner with the Oregon Venture Fund, where I run research and analysis for our investment team. What do you love about your job? Every day, I meet with entrepreneurs who are building businesses that are their passions. I have the pleasure of never being the smartest person in the room on the given topic because the entrepreneurs we work with are the best in class in their fields. There’s always an opportunity to learn something new, explore a different problem, and glimpse what the world might look like in 10 years due to new technologies and ideas. What are your challenges? Every hour is a new (and usually very different!) problem to solve. It keeps us on our toes. What advice do you have for our students? Endless curiosity will serve you well. Never stop asking why things are the way they are and how you can change them for the better.
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TOP: Members of the Jesuit community – alumni, parents and friends – joined us to share advice and experiences from 21 different industries. LEFT: Patrick Foley '06, senior software engineer for Intel, shares advice about the hi-tech industry and data science. Co-presenter Matt Markley '04, men's footwear merchant for Nike Digital Commerce, looks on.
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ALUMNI & PAST PARENT Local and Regional Events
ABOVE: Alumni and past parents gather in the Windy City for an Alumni Meetup in July. Crusaders from the classes of 1961 to 2006 were on hand for some authentic Chicago grub and conversation! RIGHT: Members of JV EnCorps enjoy paella and fellowship at their end-of-year retreat in June. JV EnCorps is a group of JHS alumni and alumni parents who meet regularly throughout the year to do service projects in the Portland-metro area.
Alumni returned to campus to offer advice and fellowship to current students at the annual African American Luncheon on May 15. Attendees honored George Weatheroy ’75 for his many years of leadership and mentorship in the Jesuit community. •
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Los Angeles alumni embraced the spirit of being “men and women for others” at a volunteer beach clean-up in Santa Monica last March. Thanks to Chad Cook ’99 and Nicole Sprunk ’05 for generously hosting Alumni Meetups in San Clemente and Santa Monica.
LEFT: It was a family affair at this year’s Crusader Crunch alumni basketball tournament on April 6-8. Congrats to the classes of 1996 and 2009/10 for their wins in the Schattenberg and Potter brackets! Pictured: Coed game and 2012 team with Coach Gene Potter. ABOVE: Past parents Ron and Anita Kutella (Doug ’94) and Cascade Lakes Brewing Co. hosted our first annual Jesuit Alumni Meetup in Central Oregon on March 14. •
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In Memoriam The Jesuit High School community joins in prayerful remembrance of those who have died. May the family and friends of those who are no longer with us in body be held in our prayers and hearts, and may the departed rest in eternal peace with God.
Jesuit High School Alumni Gary Brink '64 David Fraser '72 Michael Mulkey '66 Casey Puterbaugh '04 David Paul Ryan III '67 Richard Ziglinski '61
Joann Lum
6/27/2018 3/17/2018 5/24/2018 7/7/2018 6/14/2018 12/19/2016
Thelma Magno
Margaret Maves
4/1/2018
Gilbert Meigs
Grandmother of Christine '09 and Michelle '10 Doran
Sue Hering Clark
5/5/2018 Joan Osko
5/30/2018
Gary Poppinga
Leigh Pratt
6/20/2018
Robert Scearce
3/3/2018
Mary Scott
5/6/2018
William Seal 1/27/2018
6/23/2018
Father of Scott '86 and Craig '87 Seal
Thomas F. Hunt
Grandmother of Kealani '15, Kamaile '17, and Kanela '19 Shand
2/6/2018
Grandfather of Noah '15 and Lili '17 Paxton
Oscar Specht
1/10/2018
3/4/2018
3/5/2018
Grandfather of Madeline '11 and Mathew '11 Specht
Father of Andrew James '88
4/2/2018
Ronnie Villareal
Father of Demetri Kalomiris '87; Grandfather of Evan G. '13 and Stella '17 Kalomiris and Savannah '14, Graham '16 and Robert '20 Savage
John Kleinheinz
6/15/2018
Mother of Michael '64, Kelly '67 and Casey '70 Scott; Grandmother of Kevin '93, Jennifer '96, Molly '99 and Shaughn '02 Scott
Mary Anne Shand
Evan Kalomiris
3/27/2018
Grandfather of Sophia '15 and Ty '19 Scearce
Grandmother of Rachel '05, Matthew '08, Jessica '14 and Rebecca '17 Finn
Arthur James
1/29/2018
Grandfather of James '03 and David '09 Tabata
Father of Brian Dooney '08
Anna Finn
5/8/2018
Grandfather of Scott '05 and Christopher '06 Nye
Grandmother of Brian '91, William '93 and Margaret '98 Dehen, Angela '01 and Joseph '06 Scotto, Ben '04, Lucas '06, Thomas '08, Sam '10 and Olivia '12 Artaiz
Sean Dooney
4/30/2018
Grandmother of Collin Moore '15
Mother of Don Jr. ’77, Ross ’79, and Jack Hering ’81
Lou Ann Dehen
1/28/2018
Grandfather of Robert '14 and Catherine '16 Truszkowski
Wife of Henry Becker '63; Mother of Jeff '88 and Mike '93 Becker
Dorothy Chvatal
3/23/2018
Grandmother of Erin Muessle White '00 and Rebecca Muessle '07
Father of Rachel Bany Sneddon '08 and Anna Bany '11
Carolyn Becker
3/7/2018
Mother of Richard Humphries '01
Friends, Family, Faculty & JHS Staff David Bany
2/5/2018
Wife of Mr. Gregory Lum, JHS Librarian
3/5/2018
Father of Rene Villareal, JHS teacher; Grandfather of Conrad Villareal '17
Charles Wilkins
5/24/2018
Father of Clinton '64 and Michael '69 Wilkins; Grandfather of Sara Wilkins Stewart '97 and Amy Wilkins Carnahan '00
Father of John B. '80 and Mike '81 Kleinheinz; Grandfather of Jane '12, Andrew '14 and Katherine '16 Andersen
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6/22/2018
Remembering Gary Stanley Brink '64 March 28, 1946 - June 27, 2018 Gary was born March 28, 1946 to Melvin and Shirlee Brink. A lifetime resident of Milwaukie, he attended St. John the Baptist grade school and graduated from Jesuit High School in 1964. Gary was a ROTC graduate at Oregon State University where he met the love of his life, Jeannette Davis. They married in 1968 and recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Upon graduation from OSU, Gary entered the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant and was assigned as a Medical Service Officer. He was an Honor graduate of the U.S. Army Rotary Wing Flight and Basic Officer Course. He served in Vietnam 1969-1970 as a medical evacuation pilot with DMZ Dustoff, 237th Medical Detachment Air Ambulance where he flew 890 combat hours and rescued 2500 injured soldiers. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star and numerous Air Medals with Valor. He went on to command two Army Medical Companies, two Dustoff units, introduced military air ambulance service to the civilian market, acted as the Aviation Officer of operations for the Army Medical Command in Europe and graduated from the Command and General Staff College. He developed lifelong relationships with those he served alongside and flew 4100 total hours earning the distinguished Master Aviator Wings. Upon retiring from the military, Gary and his family returned to Milwaukie where he began his second career as a Financial Advisor, spending the next 30 years building individual financial portfolios and retirement strategies. He successfully completed his career in 2017 as a very respected and highly regarded manager. Gary is survived by his wife; three children, Kristina Hopp, Karen Hiatt and Jack Brink; seven beloved grandchildren; and his brother, Paul Brink. His smile was contagious and his love for his family abundant. He enjoyed nothing more than his travels to visit friends and family in an endless goal to create memories for everyone he loved. His life was a life of service to everyone he knew. He served as President of the Portland Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) and is a life member of the Dustoff Association. He was dedicated to his Catholic faith and highly involved in St. John the Baptist parish and school. We will remember him for his selfless devotion to his family, love for the beach, clamming, geocaching and volksmarches.
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Lt. Col. (Ret.) Gary Stanley Brink
Class Notes 1963 Patrick Harpole ’63 was part of the first class that had seniors upon entering as freshmen. Harpole is practicing family medicine and enjoys spending time with his patients. Jesuit’s motto, Age Quod Agis, reminds him of his Family Practice Residency Class’ motto: “Do the common things uncommonly well.”
1966
1972
1999
Edward R. Polich ’72 was elected by unanimous ballot to State Deputy of the Virginia Knights of Columbus on Saturday, May 5, 2018 in Roanoke, VA. Polich began serving as CEO of the world’s largest Catholic family fraternal service organization on July 1.
1983
Gregory Robbins ’66 is retired, but continues to substitute teach in Canby and is a cabin attendant at Portland Aerial Tram. He is riding in the 7 day 550 mile New England Classic Tour de Cure to raise funds for the American Diabetes Association.
1967
Bill O’Brien ’67, retired trial lawyer, lives with his wife Ann and works parttime as a mediator and arbitrator in the Seattle area. Last fall he enjoyed his 50year JHS class reunion. O’Brien spends his winters on the mountain working his dream job with Sun Valley Guest Services (a “Yellow Jacket”). He has three children and nine busy grandchildren.
Jim Wasko ’83 has switched industries after 28 years in the hi-tech computer field (Sequent Computer Systems and IBM) and now works for OCP (Oregon Catholic Press) as the Chief Product Officer. He is able to blend his Catholic faith with his professional expertise in helping create worship aids for the Catholic Church. OCP is a fantastic place to work!
1997 (and 2001)
Jonathan ‘97 and Margot Strauhull ‘01 welcomed their third son, Jonah, on September 14, 2017. He joins big brothers, Henry (6) and Leo (3).
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Kendra (Butler) Lacroix ‘99 is making a big move from the Big Apple to the Big Durian: Jakarta, Indonesia. After 14 years, Kendra is leaving her position as account manager at Orange Business Services in New York. Kendra and her husband, Florent, are excited to travel to Southeast Asia with their children (Lisette, Eloise and Oscar) and learn a new language, Bahasa. There will be plenty of room for guests in their new expat home!
2002
Joey Jenkins ’02 recently published his first book, Never Hit the Snooze Button: Why the Little Things Matter – And Why You Should Care. Full of advice on commitment, Joey’s book breathes inspiration: “Joey doesn’t just give advice and coaching sessions—he gets in the trenches with you,” said Jonathan Reed in the foreward.
2005
Ric Mortera ’05 was recently named head coach of the Fresno State women’s tennis program. Mortera has spent the past three years as assistant coach at Texas Tech, helping increase the program’s winning percentage to 81.1 percent, the best in university history. For his outstanding work, Mortera was awarded Wilson/Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Texas Region Assistant Coach of the Year in 2016 and 2017. In August, Mortera will earn his masters in sports management from Texas Tech.
2006
Pat Conroy, S.J., Katey Houck, and Scott Williams. On the right from front to back: James Huddleston, Kyle O’Keefe, Jen O’Keefe (formerly Monk), Kelsey Hall, and Sam Conchuratt.
2010
and building relationships has been a huge joy in his life. When finished, he will be returning to Mt. Angel Seminary to begin his second year of studies.
2011 Céline De Clercq ’11 is currently an interdisciplinary master’s student at the University of Oregon. Her program combines cognitive neuroscience, media studies, and educational leadership and provides significant insight into how the brain interacts with technology and how these tools can be utilized best in learning environments.
Justin Echevarria ’10, upon completing his first year of seminary, was assigned to work at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tillamook for the summer. Being among the parishioners
2009 Spotlight Carrie (Buchholz) Ghizzone ’06 and her husband, Cole, welcomed their first child, Cade Christopher, weighing 8 lbs. and 3 oz., on March 12, 2018. “He is a perfect mix of the both of us. He is so loved!” – Carrie Ghizzone ’06
2009
Last year, Zach Krahmer ’09 began a two-year graduate program at Syracuse University. He will complete an Executive Masters of International Relations and a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Conflict Resolution at the Maxwell School, and a Masters in Photography at the Newhouse School in 2019. After graduating, Zach plans to apply for a Fulbright research grant to explore issues regarding compliance with climate change. Recently, Zach was awarded one of 10 Nikon storyteller scholarships out of 1,000 applicants, and last year, won the interpretive project category of College Photographer of the Year.
Representatives from the class of 2009 joined Fr. Pat Conroy, S.J., at Sixth Engine in Washington, D.C. On the left from front to back: Harnoor Singh, Fr.
Zach has spent his summer working as a videographer in Pakistan, making videos and learning about civil society with an organization called Accountability Lab. During his time at Jesuit, Zach learned to think critically about structural issues and has been able to apply this in his work.
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JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF COEDUCATION 9000 S.W. Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway | Portland, Oregon 97225 Ph: 503-292-2663 | jesuitportland.org
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Choir Director Carol Young created a choral program that soared to new musical and artistic heights during her 25 years at Jesuit High School. Ms. Young, who received a standing ovation at Commencement, retired from Jesuit in June.