Heart & Mind - Summer 2020 by Kellenberg Memorial High School

T H E

K E L L E N B E R G

M E M O R I A L

F A M I L Y

M A G A Z I N E

HEART & M I N D

While the global pandemic forced many schools and businesses to pause, Firebirds transitioned smoothly to virtual learning.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ESSENTIAL WORKERS Summer 2020 K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

P AGE 19 HEART & MIND

A Letter from the Principal

f you asked me this winter what topics I thought this opening letter to the Summer 2020 issue of Heart and Mind would include I would have mentioned the completion of the Class of 2020 academic work. I would have mentioned the great progress taking place on our construction projects such as the science labs, the athletic fields, the tennis courts, and the parking lot, but instead, I am using words like pandemic, social distance, coronavirus, quarantine, racism, and Black Lives Matter. I would not have imagined our students spending the better part of three months attending virtual classes from home, and I certainly never thought I would have seen the day when our Firebirds had to gather their belongings from campus in small groups wearing masks and gloves. Nor would I have imagined spending hours listening and reflecting on examples of how systemic racism is evident in our own hearts, our school, and our nation. The good news is that our faculty and students negotiated the challenges of remote instruction and learning in a magnificent way. As I told the teachers and parents over these months, I have received nothing but compliments about the efforts of our staff to maintain routine, constructive instruction, and accountability for the academic welfare for all of our students. I can’t say enough about the dedication and commitment of everyone on our staff.

Please feel free to reach out to WeWillDoBetter@kellenberg. org if you would like to be in touch regarding this important issue. In one sense these are indeed unprecedented times at Kellenberg Memorial; yet, in another sense, we have successfully confronted various issues that needed reform for the welfare of our students during our 33-year history.

Greater awareness of systemic racism in our society was brought to our nation’s attention at the death of George Floyd. The ensuing rallies and protests resonated the importance of facing this evil throughout our nation. Many of our own alumni voiced their concern about the curriculum, culture, and atmosphere at Kellenberg that implicitly cooperated in this systemic evil.

In closing, I want to express my gratitude for all of the prayers and support that have played a role in helping Kellenberg Memorial overcome the tribulations posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. We are also grateful for the comments, reflections, and suggestions from parents, students, and alumni in assisting us in correcting the wrongs of racism in our culture. We are truly blessed beyond measure. While we may be apart from each other right now, please know that we are all together in spirit as “One Heart, One Mind” in the Firebird Family.

In dealing with both crises, we look forward to the next six months and for that matter, the next several years, of further enhancing our flexibility in educating our students - not only through technological advances but also through the implementation of improvements that signify a school that embraces all of its students and fights against racism in any way it is manifested. At the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic we used words like an “abundance of caution,” “navigating uncharted waters,” and “unprecedented times.” Four months later at the end of the 2019-2020 school year, we are also presented with the opportunity to build a better Kellenberg Memorial High School with the assistance of outside consultants, internal faculty, parents, students, and alumni of color who can help us navigate the turbulent waters of confronting racism.

HEART & MIND

I highly recommend that all members of the Kellenberg Memorial family read the United States Catholic Conference and Bishops’ Pastoral Letter on racism called “Open Wide Our Hearts.” It is the guiding principle for us as we move forward in addressing this serious sin. The focus of this magazine over the last several months was created around the coronavirus pandemic and the celebration of our front-line workers, parents, and graduates who have risked their own lives for the healing of others. We were able to extend our printing date for this magazine by a few days in order to address the second crisis that manifested itself three weeks ago from the time of writing this letter. Please keep our efforts facing both crises in your prayers. I hope to share with you in our winter issue of Heart & Mind the many efforts at listening, reflecting, and reforming our school to make it a safe place for our students of all races.

To Jesus through Mary,

Brother Kenneth M. Hoagland, S.M. Principal

A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

c o n t e n ts

04 CLASS OF 2020 06 SCHOOL NEWS FEED 0 8 C E L E B R AT I O N S O F FA I T H 0 9 E Y E O N T H E L AT I N S C H O O L 10 SPORTS 11 SPREADING OUR WINGS 1 2 C OV E R S T O R Y 1 6 S T. M A R T I N D E P O R R E S N E W S

1 7 K A PA / M A R I A R E G I N A 18 ALUMNI NEWS 2 0 FAC U LT Y I N T E RV I E W: M R . M A R T Y B R OW N 21 FOREVER FIREBIRDS 2 2 CLASS NOTES 27 IN MEMORIAM

Heart & Mind, the magazine of Kellenberg Memorial High School, is published twice a year and distributed to all alumni, parents, alumni parents, faculty, administration, and friends of KMHS. A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Principal Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M.

Historic Class of 2020

Spreading Our Wings

T H E

K E L L E N B E R G

M E M O R I A L

F A M I L Y

M A G A Z I N E

HEART & M I N D

04 11

On the Cover (From left to right, top to bottom): William Fried ’25 practices

clarinet for Praetorian Band, Molly McGoldrick ’21 performs for Variety Night, Stephen Pieraccini ’23 works from home, The Moulder Family - James, Ann Marie, Elizabeth (Moulder) Knusden ’09, William ’12, Victoria ’16, Colleen ’19, and Teresa ’22, lead the Daily Decade, Wilmarr Saint Surin ’20 received a Congratulations Graduate sign, Lauren Reyes ’26 shows her "Stay Safe" LS CROSS project, Brendan Riordan ’24 attends class, Danielle DePetris ’20 received a special Mickey pretzel on the days of the Senior Trip, Annie Pugh ’24 studies at home, Miss Allyson Frisina shows her teaching set-up, Nahima Michaud ’22 participates in the Day of Athletics Virtual Pass, Michael Fuentes ’22 shows his excitement for online learning, Kevin O’Connor ’23 prays the Angelus with his class, Olivia Carmody ’23 shows her Scripture project, and The Lamoreaux Family - Joseph ’91, Jennifer, Joseph ’19, James ’21, Grace ’24, and Peter ’26, lead the Daily Decade. While the global pandemic forced many schools and businesses to pause, Firebirds transitioned smoothly to virtual learning.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR ESSENTIAL WORKERS

Summer 2020

K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

P AGE 19

A DVA N C E M E N T Director of Advancement Mrs. Denise Miles Director of Alumni Mr. Thomas Huggard A L U M N I B OA R D President Andrea (Licari) Petrosky ’91 Vice President Anthony Cantelmo ’97 Vice President Jenny Delaleu ’94 Vice President Tara (Fitzgerald) Fuentes ’89 Vice President Tom Nasso ’99 Vice President Jerry Silecchia ’88 EDITORIAL Editor in Chief Mrs. Erin (Byrne) Cicalese ’98 Editorial Advisor Mr. Thomas Huggard Editorial Assistant Mrs. Beth Campbell Creative Director Mrs. Trista Harnisch Contributors Mr. Douglas Cioffi ’97 Mrs. Erin (Toscano) Citrano ’03 Mr. Eric Harnisch PHOTOGRAPHY Mr. Jeff Harris ’03, Director Nicolas Castelli ’17 Joseph Ciorra ’17 Alex Cruz ’17 Brother Roger Poletti, S.M. Kamil Szwed ’20 HEART & MIND

Class of 2020

FI REBI R D

F LY BY

Molly Simons ’20

Aidan McBrien ’20

On May 13 th, members of the Class of 2020 were invited to attend a “fly-by” on campus while remaining socially distant. Cars decorated with festive blue and gold decorations drove up and down Kellenberg's driveway and were greeted along the way by faculty members and administrators. The seniors were given their Spiritual Survival Kits and enjoyed being "together" as a class. Music provided by DJOB added to the festive atmosphere!

JP Iregbulem ’20 and Reetz Limonta ’20

Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M., with Beato, and Fr. Thomas Cardone, S.M. greet the Firebirds

Aidan York ’20

Mrs. Jennifer Strauss 4

HEART & MIND

Nathalia Fenelon-Alty ’20

Bro. Michael Gillen, S.M. hands a Spiritual Survival Kit to Andrew Erickson ’20

Grace Cairo ’20

Andrew Torti ’20

Fr. Thomas Cardone, S.M. with Thomas McCartney ’20 A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

C l a ss o f 2 0 2 0

S E N I O R P R AY E R S E R V I C E

After the fly-by, seniors participated in their final prayer service virtually from their homes. With an introduction by Mr. Alex Basile, readings by Mr. Matt Bursig and Mrs. Cathy von Schoenermarck, and a reflection by Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., the virtual prayer service served as an inspirational spiritual “gathering” for the seniors to begin to wind down their time at Kellenberg Memorial in much the same way they began: in prayer. Father Tom shared sound advice with the Class of 2020, saying, “I encourage you - become that love of Jesus Christ. Be able to say ‘yes’ to Mary’s words, where she says, ‘Do whatever He tells you.’ But remember: every relationship leads to mission. May we truly be solid missionaries of Mary- always in relationship and always in friendship for the good of each other, for the good of the world, and for the good of the Church.”

T H E HISTORIC C LASS OF 2 020

The Class of 2020 will forever be remembered in the history of Kellenberg Memorial for its resilience, adaptability, and unwavering faith. The spring months of senior year are unarguably among the most exciting times for Kellenberg Memorial students. This year, however, the global pandemic caused so many special events for the senior class to be either canceled or adapted to a virtual format. Throughout the turmoil of Covid-19-related scheduling upheavals, the members of the Class of 2020 supported and celebrated each other, and remained connected as a faith-filled student body of “one heart and one mind.” As of this writing, the administration plans on celebrating Baccalaureate Mass and Commencement for the Class of 2020 at Hofstra University on August 2 nd (in accordance with NYS guidelines at that time). Every effort is being made to ensure that the senior class can come together for one final time to celebrate, reminisce, and say farewell (for now) to their Firebird Family. K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

S C H O O L N E WS F E E D

kellenberg

16 January 9:22AM

Congratulations to the newest #Firebirds of the Class of 2024! The 8 th grade students from the Bro. Joseph C. Fox Latin School received KMHS shirts as they look towards the next chapter of their time at Kellenberg Memorial! #KMHS2024 #OneHeartOneMind

kellenberg

6 February 3:17PM

24 January 4:49PM

Mr. Kevin Becker spoke to the Latin School students about his miraculous healing through the intercession of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. Thank you for making time for our students!

KMHSrobotic

20 January 3:47PM

Kellenberg's Robotics team competed at Adelphi University, finishing in the top 8 teams out of 35, winning 6 matches, and making it to the Semifinals. #Robotics #STEM @AdelphiU

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7 February 8:32PM

24 January 5:52PM

100 juniors marched today to defend the sanctity of human life in Washington, D.C. at the @March_for_Life! #ProLife #MarchForLife #WhyWeMarch

kellenberg

Former pro-athlete Chris Singleton @csingleton__2 inspired our students this morning with his message of love, forgiveness, and unity in our world. Chris lost his mother in the Charleston, SC AME Church shooting in 2015.

Congrats to our award winners at the Model UN conference @AmericanU: Edward Goodyear ’21 (Most Outstanding Delegate), Isabella Nieminen ’20 (Best Delegate), Benjamin Truncale ’20 (Honorable Mention), & Sarah Rao ’23 (Verbal Recognition)!

24 January 1:25PM

HEART & MIND

Great job by the Class of 2020 at the Senior Blood Drive. Thank you for giving the gift of life! @NYBloodCenter Pictured here are donors Brian Carroll ’20, Madison Savarese ’20, Sarah Killian ’20, Danielle Thomas ’20, and Kate Buttiglione ’20.

What a great night filled with fellowship and prayer for our male students and the father figures in their lives at the St. Joseph's Night! Special thanks to former New York Met Mookie Wilson (pictured here with James Agoglia ’23 and his father, Vincent) & Bishop John Barres for their witness on such a fun night. @RVCDiocese

3 February 4:15PM

kellenberg

14 February 11:07AM

The Business & Finance Club members started their Bloomberg Module training courses @MolloyCollege.

A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

S c h o o l n ews F e e d

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20 February 5:50PM

Over winter break, Kellenberg Memorial students worked hard helping Habitat for Humanity building a home in Brentwood with St. Joseph’s Mission. @Habitat_org #ServiceOverSelf

29 February 4:29PM

Members of the Phoenix & Firebird Choruses had a big day in NYC, visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral, touring @RadioCity and seeing @ WestSideStoryUS on #Broadway!

kellenberg

6 March 8:15PM

The Drama Club’s spring performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream opened to rave reviews! The second show followed the next night, and the cast included those pictured above: Deirdre Ambrosi ’20, Joseph DeMarco ’20, Wilmarr Saint Surin ’20, Danielle Wergiles ’20, and Edward Jansen ’21.

kellenberg

2 March 10:40AM

kellenberg

25 February 12:37PM

Congratulations to Paul Bartolemea ’20, who has been honored as a finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Of the 1.5 million high school juniors who took the preliminary PSAT exam, only 15,000 (~1%) are given this distinction.

Emma Carmody ’21, Gianna Chiariello ’21, Bryce Rahynes ’21, Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02, Alex Scagnelli ’21, Mason Carpentier ’21, and Imani Chung ’21 set out on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Project Understanding.

KellenbergXLT 11 March 9:25PM

A great experience at XLT tonight. Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament and the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe! Thank you to all who attended this wonderful opportunity of prayer, worship, and song.

kellenberg

3 March 12:04PM

KMHSGregsChoir 26 February 11:04AM

Members of Gregorian Consortium are proud of their ashes on Ash Wednesday this morning. #AshWednesday

The Phoenix newspaper wins third place for Most Outstanding Newspaper at Adelphi Quill Awards. Pictured are honorees Angelo Tsassis ’22, Mary O’Connor ’21, Isabella Nieminen ’20, Editor in Chief James Mooney III ’20, Ally Goldsmith ’20, and Ciara Atkins ’21. @AdelphiU

KMCommClub 6 May 3:07PM

Thank you to KMHS class of 2006 alumna News 12 Anchor @tarajoycetv for sharing her time and answering all the students’ questions! @KMHSAlumni

CHECK OUT KMHS SOCIAL MEDIA K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

C E L E B R AT I O N S O F FA I T H

DAY OF PRAYER Kellenberg Memorial's annual Day of Giving, which had been scheduled for Wednesday, March 25 th, was postponed and replaced with a much-needed Day of Prayer. The Day of Prayer began with online streaming of the celebration of the Mass for the Annunciation of the Lord, followed by special prayers being offered online throughout the day by several alumni priests, including Father Jeff Yildirmaz ’04, Father Matthew McDonald ’02, Father Matthew Browne ’11, and Father Michael Plona ’07. Father Thomas Cardone, S.M. offered an online Eucharistic Adoration, and Mr. Alex Basile and Mr. Bryan Finn ’96 led an online reflection and Stations of the Cross. Father Matthew Browne ’11’s reflection on the pandemic focused primarily on how to find positivity in a situation that has wrought so much havoc upon people’s lives. He said, “Maybe through this experience, Jesus is calling us to follow Him in a different way. The Lord is asking you and me to step out of our comfort zones and say ‘yes’ to continuing to bring Jesus into our lives despite the circumstances; to say ‘yes’ to prayer; to say ‘yes’ to continue to live a holy life. God is using these unexpected moments to give us unexpected graces.” A.

THE DAILY DECADE One of the many spiritual resources available to the Kellenberg Family during the pandemic has been the “Daily Decade.” Each day, Kellenberg faculty, students, or alumni prayed a decade of the rosary with their family members, and the video was shared with all to participate. A. The Petrosky Family - Alumni Board President Andrea (Licari) Petrosky ’91 with her daughters, Ava ’22 and Kira ’25. B. The Jackson

Family - Rhonnie and Carline Jackson with their sons, Shane ’18, Noel ’22, and Noah ’23. C. The O’Kane Family - Glenn ’90 and Syndee O’Kane with their children, Jordynn ’18 and Thomas ’23. D. The Hom Family - John and Jeanine Hom with their children, Suzanne ’15, Lauren ’17, William ’19, and Jack ’23. E. The Amador Family - Cristina Amador with her sons, Anthony ’21 and Jonathan. F. The Perrone Family - Jaclyn Perrone with her son, Anthony ’26.

MAY CROWNING

One of the many spring traditions at Kellenberg Memorial that was brought to families virtually was the May Crowning, which took place on May 22nd. This year, Mr. Clark Blanton, who recently announced his retirement after 33 years at KMHS, along with his son, Luke, were selected to crown Mary. Following the crowning, Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. presented Mr. Blanton with a statue of Mary in gratitude for his years of service at Kellenberg Memorial. Members of the sophomore class then recited a decade of the rosary, and Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 rededicated the school community to Mary’s care. The prayer service closed with a special thank you to essential workers and front line responders. As always, we are very grateful to the Floral Park Fire Department for their help! 8

HEART & MIND

A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

E Y E O N T H E L AT I N S C H O O L A.

A. On January 14th, Latin Schoolers took part in the annual Geography Bee. Congratulations to the winner, Sean Cullimore ’25, and the runner up, Marco Macaluso ’25! Pictured (left to right): Ms. Kelly Westerman ’11, Mr. Michael Duffy ’16, Sean Cullimore ’25, Marco Macaluso ’25, Mrs. Penny Riiska, Mr. Patrick Miles ’05, and Mr. Joe Fiore ’09. B. On March 11th, the Squires took part in a field trip to New York City. The day kicked off with a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, where Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 celebrated Mass for the eighth graders. Following Mass, students received a tour of the iconic cathedral. The group then made its way to Broadway to catch a production of The Lion King. It was an unforgettable day in the Big Apple! Emma Barnes ’24, Sophia Stoma ’24, Alisa Tarasovskaya ’24, Elena Brutus ’24, and Ava Vultaggio ’24 pose in front of the Minskoff Theatre prior to seeing The Lion King. C. Squires pose for a group photo in front of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. D. The Latin School gathered as one body in Christ to pray the Stations of the Cross on March 6th. E. During the weekly Wednesday “Virtual Activity Day” on May 6th, members of the Latin School’s General Student Organization (GSO) created a variety of “Stay Home, Stay Safe” signs for their homes during this time of the pandemic. GSO members Eva McLaughlin ’26 and (F.) Marco Arena ’25 display their “Stay Home, Stay Safe” signs. G. On May 28th, faculty members, coaches, and administrators took to the roads to hand deliver congratulatory lawn signs to the Squire Class of 2020! Mr. James Walsh ’11 delivers a lawn sign to Lindsay Trum ’24.

NINE STUDENTS EARN PERFECT SCORE ON NATIONAL LATIN EXAM In February and March, over 140,000 students took the National Latin Exam across the globe. The young Latinists at the Brother Fox Latin School did exceptionally well on this very rigorous exam that tests grammar, vocabulary, etymology, culture, and translation skills. Of the 375 Cadets and Squires that took the exam, 49% earned some type of award for high achievement. In fact, one out of every three squires received either a Gold or Silver Medal! Special acknowledgment should go to those students who earned a perfect score: Ava Alperin ’25, Eileen Benenati ’24, Delaney Clark ’25, Emily Connelly ’24, Julia DeMaro ’24, Joana De Oliveira ’25, Xavier Milano ’24, Michelle Paszek ’24, and Jason Veletanga ’24. Congrats to all! K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

NCAA COMMITMENTS S P O R TS

NATIONAL LETTERS OF INTENT

Congratulations to these 17 scholar-athletes who have committed to the colleges they wish to attend and have agreed to participate in collegiate athletics at the highest level. Bila Bonifacio SUNY Oneonta Cheerleading Anthony Tucker Bradshaw Western Connecticut State Football Isabella Cascone Hofstra University Dance Elisabeth Casey St. John's University Dance Joseph Contino Western New England Lacrosse

Alexis Kotanidis Molloy College Bowling

Daisha Howard Felician University Bowling & Softball

Congratulations to Daisha Howard ’20 and Alexis Kotanidis ’20 who signed National Letters of Intent formally committing to the colleges they will attend and agreeing to participate in collegiate athletics at the highest level.

Jake Cosgrove SUNY Maritime Basketball Thomas DeStefani SUNY Plattsburgh Lacrosse Bossuet Jules Farmingdale State College Track & Field Maxwell Kramer St. Michael's College Swimming

Island Harvest

Dance Nationals

Samantha Lombardi SUNY Plattsburgh Lacrosse

Kudos to the Varsity Dance Team who went to Nationals in Florida and made it to finals in all their categories (Jazz, Team, Hip Hop, and Pom)!

Kevin Marroquin SUNY Brockport Soccer Ryan Murphy St. John's University Lacrosse Claire O'Regan Adelphi University Track & Field

Scholarship Award Winner

Rain didn't stop Ceili Donnelly ’20 from dropping off all the food donations to Island Harvest that the girls varsity track team collected during their drive by parade for Coach Brown!

Nicole Aponte ’20 is the 2020 recipient of the Greater Long Island Running Club 2020 Scholarship Award. This award goes annually to a member of a Long Island track team who has done extraordinary community service work. Nicole on her own, got her teammates to help volunteer, and started a “Special Olympics Track Team” called the “Rockets.”

Congratulations! Firebird baseball alum Kevin McCarthy ’10, now a pitcher with the Kansas City Royals, took the time to send a video of encouragement to the Class of 2020!

Perfect Season Congratulations to the Latin School Boys Basketball Team on their perfect 10-0 season and a middle school championship!

Nathan Revere Ithaca College Baseball Daniel Settino Fairleigh Dickinson Football Jillian Simonelli University of Rhode Island Dance

Senior Lawn Signs

James Watterson Hofstra University Wrestling

Kori Key ’20 is one of many happy spring sports seniors who received congratulatory lawn signs and t-shirts.

HEART & MIND

Richard Meyers Cup With their win over St. Mary’s in February, the Varsity Hockey Team won the Richard Meyers Cup Challenge. Congratulations! A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

S PREADING O UR W INGS TH E VI S I O N F O R TH E F U T U R E OF K E L L E N BE R G ME MOR I A L

There is much excitement on campus as facility enhancements continue to progress towards the strategic goals that have been laid out as part of Spreading Our Wings: The Vision for the Future of Kellenberg Memorial. The strategic plan is moving along nicely with two new turf fields installed in our Athletic Complex on the corner of Glenn Curtiss Boulevard and Hempstead Turnpike, construction of a six-court Tennis Center at the Athletic Complex, and a new parking lot with 214 spots located on the former Saint Mark’s Field. In addition to a newly resurfaced track, ADA-compliant bleachers were erected on Saint Matthew Field, along with a press box.

360-degree view of the Chemistry Lab under construction

Phase II of the strategic plan is well underway with the creation of a new Science Wing featuring all newly renovated science labs. Construction began in April and is targeted to be completed by September. Firebirds will be greeted in the fall by state-of-the-art science classrooms and laboratories ready for STEM exploration and learning in the areas of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Science Olympiad. While much progress has already been made regarding facility enhancements, there are still many exciting projects on the horizon as part of Spreading Our Wings: The Vision for the Future. A 28,000 square foot multi-purpose building behind the cafeteria in 2021 Three new art rooms/studios above the girls locker room A grand new entryway to campus at the driveway on Glenn Curtiss Boulevard Stella Maris (our new retreat house in Islip) projects including a new outdoor fire pit that was built by Kevin Reiser ’20, who donated the feature as his Eagle Scout project; outdoor Stations of the Cross built by a KMHS carpenter; a new roof on the care taker’s house; and installation of a portable dock for our crew teams l

Architect’s rendering of the Chemistry Lab K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

Cov e r St o ry

As schools across the country have been challenged to navigate the rapid implementation of remote learning due to the global pandemic, Kellenberg Memorial High School has found itself uniquely positioned to transfer the education of the heart and the mind to a virtual atmosphere almost seamlessly.

As Covid-19 cases began being reported in the tri-state area, Kellenberg immediately ensured the safety of the Firebird Family by closing campus and implementing a remote learning plan that would not sacrifice any of the core tenets upon which the education of the heart and mind is built. D.

A. Peter LoPiccolo ’23 attends virtual classes from his home. B. The Carman

Family leads the Daily Decade, faculty member Mrs. Deborah Carman and her husband, Michael, with their children, Michael ’16, Chris ’18, and Jenny ’21. C. Colleen Costello ’23 proudly displays her Freshman Scripture project. D. Nikolaos Stamatelatos ’23 wears his full uniform while completing assignments. E. As a member of Firebird Swing, Megan Zabrouski ’20 helps virtually close out the show with the classic Route 66.

E. 12

HEART & MIND

A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

With all students and faculty members already equipped with iPads (a strategic initiative undertaken by the school beginning in 2014), the school quickly transitioned to virtual classrooms by utilizing the Schoology learning management system. The comfortable rhythm of a typical day on campus was maintained by providing students with the continuity of following their regular nine-period academic schedule, albeit remotely. As always, each class begins with a prayer, students pray the Angelus at noon, and all ninth period classes are concluded with the traditional Marianist Three O’Clock Prayer. Parents and students alike have expressed appreciation for the stability that Kellenberg’s remote learning plan has offered during this stressful time in history. Tara (Fitzgerald) Fuentes ’89, a current parent of three Firebirds, Michael ’22, Catherine ’24, and Mario ’26, says, “Never before has the value of maintaining a daily routine been as valued as during this unprecedented time. Thankfully, our students have been able to sign on remotely from home and resume their lessons without missing a day.” Kellenberg students have proved to be remarkably adaptable to learning in unique new ways. Gabriel Blanco ’24, shares, “It’s very different and very new. I think it’s pretty cool that we’re in such an advanced lifestyle now that we can still connect through our screens and communicate.” Sarah Goez ’20 echoes the success of Kellenberg’s transition to web-based instruction, saying, “Even though we don’t see each other at Kellenberg, we still, as a community, join every day to check in on each other and see how things are going.” Sarah also appreciates how members of Firebird Swing, Kellenberg Memorial’s performance choir, connect every Wednesday to sing a song together over Facetime and have a chance to connect over their love of music.

Faculty members have fully embraced the implementation of remote learning and report resounding successes in their “classrooms.” Mrs. Alice Accardi, a veteran member of the Math Department, says, “I’m thrilled, but not surprised, by the response of the Kellenberg student body to this unexpected turn of events. My students have been incredibly patient with me, with their classmates, with themselves, and with technology as we adjust to the new class setups. Real learning is taking place. They’re asking after my family and those of their classmates. They’re keeping up with their assignments. In short, they’re doing as Kellenberg kids always do - going above and beyond with a smile. I’m humbled by the kids that I teach.”

A. Isabella Yew ’23 displays her freshman scripture project. B.

JP Iregbulem ’20 serves as Lector for the Mass for the Class of 2020 held on Sunday, June 7 th . C. Michael Panasci ’21 dressed up for the High School Jazz Night, which was held virtually. D. Ava Belen ’26 studies with her adorable sidekick, Lady. E. Scarlett Frisone ’25 practices lacrosse ball handling during her gym class. K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

E. HEART & MIND

Cov e r St o ry

" Real learning is taking place. They’re asking after my family and those of their classmates. They’re keeping up with their assignments. In short, they’re doing as Kellenberg kids always do going above and beyond with a smile."

Apostolic activities have also found success in congregating virtually. Faculty member Mr. John Ruhl remarks, “My sodality, as well as many others, have continued to meet virtually. We’ve also been hosting successful Aquinas League meetings online. But most impressive, I think, was a recent CROSS meeting myself and the other moderators hosted. We weren’t sure how many students we would attend, but we decided that it would be worth it even if only a few people showed up. The students blew us away with their participation - 80 students logged into our virtual CROSS meeting to pray the Stations of the Cross and the rosary with the Pope! It was a real testament to the spiritual life at Kellenberg and the commitment these students have to their faith, their school, and each other.”

Ever-dedicated to the growth of the faith-lives of Firebirds, the school paused classes on March 25th so that the entire Kellenberg family was able to participate in a Day of Prayer, which was organized by the A.R.K. (Apostolic Response at Kellenberg). The day began with online streaming of the celebration of the Mass for Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, followed by special prayers being offered online throughout the day by several alumni priests, including Fr. Jeff Yildirmaz ’04, Fr. Matthew McDonald ’02, Fr. Matthew Browne ’11, and Fr. Michael Plona ’07. Fr. Thomas Cardone, S.M. offered an online Eucharistic Adoration, and Mr. Alex Basile and Mr. Bryan Finn ’96 led an online reflection and Stations of the Cross. Additionally, every day a Kellenberg family leads the school in a recitation of the rosary.

A. Sarah Goez ’20 begins her remote learning at home. B. Gabriel Bianco ’24 starts the day learning at home. C. Mario Fuentes ’26 shows his glowing recommendation of his iPad. 14

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A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

C ov e r St o ry The Guidance Department at Kellenberg Memorial continues to play a critical role in the development of the students. Individual counseling sessions are taking place remotely, and all students have direct access to a wealth of mental health and wellness resources via the school’s social worker and website. In keeping with our commitment to fully prepare students for higher education, college counselors are busy digitally conferencing with seniors as they decide upon their colleges of choice. Kellenberg’s college counselors are also busy arranging their individual appointments with members of the junior class to ensure a coherent and seamless college research and application process. In addition to ensuring that students have access to all the support resources available to them during the course of a normal school year, the Guidance Department has also introduced new initiatives to help students prepare for the future. In May, the “Firebird to Firebird Career Connections” initiative began with over 150 members of the junior class participating. The program connects current students to Firebird alumni in many professional fields, such as television production, psychology, special education, elementary education, finance, cybersecurity, engineering, music, pharmacy, speech pathology, and medicine. Assistant Principal for Guidance Mrs. Ruth Marconi explains the program, saying, “Essentially, we have taken the traditional Career Night and created a new concept that can be easily accessed virtually. Director of Information Technology Mr. Jim Campbell ’91 has endless creativity and passion and provided the infrastructure support. All presentations have included a Faculty Moderator, and we are using multiple platforms to advertise - the most effective of which has been the enthusiastic explanations provided by our junior religion teachers, who provide both details and encouragement. I am sure their intercession has been the reason that in the first two weeks alone we have had approximately 300 students participate! Each session is recorded so that if a student has a new area of interest or was unable to attend, they can go back and access the program. It has been a great success!” Knowing that a Marianist education of the heart and mind would not be complete without extracurricular activities, Kellenberg has made a prudent decision to eliminate class meetings each Wednesday so that activities can be built into students’ virtual schedules for the remainder of the school year. Each Wednesday, students meet virtually with the various clubs and activities that over 80% of students participate in regularly at Kellenberg Memorial. The school has also hosted a Day of Athletics, featuring workout challenges and a virtual pass challenge, and a Blue & Gold Spirit

Day, featuring dance and dramatic performances, all to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the efforts of the school’s athletic and creative endeavors this spring. Kellenberg Memorial is also proud to offer students free mini-courses in a wide range of disciplines and hobbies throughout the summer months in order to keep Firebirds engaged and learning! At a time when the country’s schools are asked to educate “together, but apart,” the resiliency, dedication, and love that permeates the Kellenberg Memorial family has transcended the physical aspects of “school” as we know it. The classrooms, fields, hallways, and chapel may be temporarily shrouded in silence, but the deeply infused Marianist education of the heart and mind is louder (and stronger) than ever.

D. Fr. Jeff Yildirmaz ’04, E. Fr. Matthew McDonald ’02, and F. Fr. Thomas Cardone, S.M. lead prayers during the Day of Prayer on March 25th.

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HEART & MIND

SPRING HIGHLIGHTS AT

ST. MARTIN DE PORRES MARIANIST SCHOOL S t. m a r t i n d e p o r r es

A. First-graders work on their "how-to" assignment, How to Make a Root Beer Float, which was a most delicious project! B. Second-grade girls prayerfully paint their icons of the Blessed Mother in the Art Studio. C. Eighth-grader Quinn O'Grady shows off his outstanding science fair project about water filtration. D. Elle Ade works on mixing and writing the colors of the rainbow in Pre-K. E. “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” Brother James Conway, S.M. distributes ashes to kindergartener Arianna Ludewig. F. Even though the second-graders’ First Holy Communion Day was postponed due to the pandemic, St. Martin’s families were still able to “be together while apart” by attending a drive-through Eucharistic Blessing offered by Father Thomas Cardone, S.M. and Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02. G. The fifth graders did an outstanding job presenting their Living Museums. Pictured is Jaslyn Chavez presenting her project on Clara Barton, founder of the Red Cross. H. The annual Mardi Gras celebration kicked off with the revealing of the 2020 King and Queen, eighth-graders Justin McKenzie and Kennedy Solis! I. The kindergarten classes were happy to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday with a story read by our reading specialist, Mrs. Kenney. J. Getting ready to hit the runway, eighth-graders Darlennys Guillermo, Givanny Cruz, and Adenike Adeyemo are all smiles at the Ladies Tea & Fashion Show. K. The eighth-graders were happy to provide service with a smile during Ash Wednesday services. L. At the Lenten Prayer Service, Brother James Conway, S.M. teaches students that Lent is a great time to clean up the messiness that can sometimes disguise us. M. The S.M.M.S. Laser Sharks, the Lego Robotics Team, took home the Core Values Teamwork Award at the 1st Lego League Robotics Tournament! 16

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K A PA & M a r i a R e g i na

NIGHT AT THE RACES A.

K A PA On February 29th, members of KAPA came together for an evening of fun at Night at the Races. A. Liz Boylan P’08,’11,’14 with Faculty Member Mrs. Penny Riiska P’13. B. John and Laura Butler P’24, Joe Kuppelmeyer, KAPA Board Members Bob and Lori Kuppelmeyer P’11,’14,’16,’19, Mark and Kathy Wetzel; and Lorraine Kuppelmeyer. C. Diane Scotton P’00, Maryann Scatamacchia P’97,’00, and Kathy Paternostro P’96,’98.

F LO R I DA C O C K TA I L RECEPTIONS Christie Catterson ’14, KMHS Advisory Board Member Linda Talbot P’12,’13, Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M., Mary and Ken MR’79 Cotty, P’05,’10, Dan Breen P’06, KMHS Advisory Board President Phil Westerman P’11,’13,’17, Walter Wright P’99,’02,’08, Alva Breen P’06, Alice McGowan GP’12, Denise Miles P’05,’07,’09, Joanne Wright P’99,’02,’08, and Tom McGowan GP’12 enjoy the warm weather in Naples.

In March, Kellenberg Memorial alumni, Maria Regina alumni, all alumni parents, as well as Firebird grandparents, were invited to attend two evenings of “Winter Cocktails” in Florida. Brian and Linda Talbot P’12,’13, who are members of Kellenberg Memorial’s Advisory Board, hosted the first event at their home in Naples on March 3rd. The following day, John and Margaret Fiore P’09,’11,’13,’15, also members of the Advisory Board, hosted a reception in their Fort Lauderdale home featuring a live cooking demo with Fr. Leo Patalinghug, best-selling author, and host of “Savoring Our Faith” on EWTN.

On January 25th, Maria Regina alumni gathered for the annual Tom Crotty Classic at Kellenberg Memorial High School. This year's tournament featured an 83-48 Firebird Boys Varsity Basketball win over St. John's Preparatory High School. Following the game, Maria Regina alumni, the Varsity Basketball team, and their families gathered in the Millennium Room to celebrate the life of Tom Crotty ’77, who was tragically killed during the September 11th attacks. Patrick Caffrey ’77, Peter Espina ’77,

Ken Harkins ’77, Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M., Jeannie (Moratti) ’77 and Jim Madelmayer ’77, P’06,’08,’11,’14, Kevin Kenney ’77, John Hastings ’77, Mike Scully ’77, Robert Brant ’77, Gerry Stoll ’77, and Jim McCutcheon ’77. K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

M a r i a R e g i na

TOM CROTTY CLASSIC

The Class of 1970 will celebrate its 50-year reunion on Sunday, October 4, 2020. To ensure you receive your invitation, please send your updated mailing and email addresses to alumni@kellenberg.org.

T h a n k Yo u !

FRESHMAN THANK A LU M N I E S S E N T I A L WO R K E R S As part of the English 9 Honors courses taught by Mrs. Ruth Marconi and Mr. Ryan White, students wrote thank you letters to Firebird alumni essential workers. Below please find an abbreviated version of a thank you letter crafted by one member of the freshman class. Dear Essential Worker, First of all, thank you for your bravery. The state of the world is as far away from calm as it can be, and knowing you are fighting to keep us all healthy means so much to not only me, but the rest of the world. We are all cheering for you on the sidelines, because your help has given us comfort and safety and right now, that is very much needed. Dealing with all of this craziness has been challenging, but to keep my head straight I’ve just kept repeating Deuteronomy 31:8 over and over. It goes: “The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” I find comfort in this quote, but I’m sure you do as well. Though I don’t know what it’s like fighting on the front lines, I’m sure it is very scary and overwhelming. But understand that the Lord will always be by your side, and he will never abandon you. You may feel lost and alone, but you are not. God brought you to this very moment because he knew you could help thousands of people. And you can! We believe in you, and God does too. A lot of my family members are working in the medical field, and seeing how stressed they are really makes me sad. I can’t imagine it’s any easier for you, so when I say this I mean it with my whole heart: you have been so brave that I really cannot thank you enough. Every little thing you have ever done to help others is so greatly appreciated, because though you may see it as small, it could be life-changing to another. Thank you for keeping others safe, thank you for staying brave and not giving up, and lastly, thank you for reading. I hope that this letter brought you comfort, made you smile, and made you feel loved - because you are. You are not alone. Keep fighting, we’ll all be cheering. With much love, Future Kellenberg Alum ’23

A L U M N I N O T E s of G R A T I T U D E Bianca Costanzo ’15: Radiologic Technologist, Northwell Health, Orlin and Cohen Thank you for the kind words, and thank you to the Kellenberg student body for reaching out to all the essentials workers. I received the letter this morning at work and it instantly made my shift better! I hope the faculty and students remain healthy and safe!

Michael Mayer, RN ’11: Mather Hospital, Port Jefferson, NY I want to thank the student(s) of Kellenberg Memorial for sending such a wonderful email. These past few months have been difficult for so many people. Reading the student’s letter brought a smile to my face and it truly touched my heart. Working as a nurse caring for patients afflicted with the virus has not been easy. But I will carry the words written by the student and the attached scripture quote with me as I continue to work and care for these patients. It will surely give me the strength and courage I need to continue. I am so thrilled to be an alumnus of Kellenberg Memorial during this time. Feeling that support makes all the difference. When things return to normal, I’d be happy to speak with any student interested in the medical field, especially nursing. It’s the least I can do. Teri (Messina) Albanese, RN ’94, P’20,’22: Radiologic Technologist, Northwell Health, Orlin and Cohen You know how they say things appear when you need them the most? After a very hard shift this note was the first thing I read. Chills up my spine and tears in my eyes, I get to rest with a full heart tonight. “Be not afraid” is one song that has touched my heart, for it was a song my father had always sung to me as a little girl when I had feelings of insecurity. So to the very eloquent freshman, please send my sincere love, thanks, and appreciation for all they have given me. I am a proud parent of two Kellenberg students and a forever proud Firebird myself! The lessons of love and peace from my Kellenberg family have touched me in a profound way, and for that I am forever grateful!

ALUMNI PHOTOGRAPHER RAISES OVER $5,000 FOR FRONT LINE WORKERS Mr. Jeff Harris ’03, who serves as Director of Technical Productions at Kellenberg Memorial, has six front line workers in his family who worked tirelessly to help those impacted during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, including his wife, Caitlin (Schechter) FNP-BC, MSN ’03, a case manager at North Shore University Hospital; his brother, Brian ’07, a corrections officer at Nassau County Correctional Center; and his parents, Donald and Wendy, RN, P’03,’05,’07, Manager of Key Foods Supermarkets and a registered nurse at North Shore University Hospital, respectively; and his mother-in-law, Shelly Schechter, RN, P’03,’08, Director of Maternal Child Health Services at the Nassau County Health Department. With so many loved ones at the forefront of the Covid-19 fight, Jeff was dedicated to finding a way to show his appreciation for all those who put their lives on the line to help others during this time of uncertainty in our world. So Jeff did what he does best: he took his camera and started capturing memories. He offered “Front Porch Photography” to families who wanted to have their photo taken on the front steps of their homes from a safe, social distance. In return, Jeff asked only for a small donation. With over 70 families taking part in the initiative, those “small donations” added up to just over $5,000! He was thrilled to be able to use the funds to team up with Rialto Restaurant in Westbury, owned by Tara (Fitzgerald) Fuentes ’89, P’22,’24,’26, who is a member of Kellenberg Memorial’s Alumni Advisory Board, and her husband, Mario, (pictured left with Jeff and his son, Luke) to bring over 150 meals to the correction officers at the Nassau County Correctional Center. Jeff says, “With six family members working on the front line, I needed to do something to show my support! I discussed who I should help with Caitlin, and we thought helping the corrections officers would be the best. Over 100 corrections officers at Nassau County Correctional Center suffered from Covid-19, and they are doing so much behind the scenes work.” (Pictured right: Brian ’07 and Jeff ’03 with their sons, Hunter and Luke, respectively, pose with members of the CO Union.) 18

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T H A N K YO U !

While While most most have have been been urged urged to to stay stay home home during during the the Covid-19 Covid-19 pandemic, pandemic, many many Firebird Firebird alumni alumni have have found found themselves themselves on on the the front front lines lines of of stopping stopping the the spread spread of of the the virus virus and and tending tending to to the the health health of of those those who who have have been been impacted. impacted. The The Marianist Marianist education education of of the the heart heart and and mind mind has has been been on on full full display display as as alums alums sacrifice sacrifice the the health health and and safety safety of of themselves themselves to to protect protect others. others. The The entire entire Kellenberg Kellenberg Memorial Memorial family family sends sends a a collective, collective, heartfelt heartfelt

thank you to to our our essential essential worker worker alumni! alumni!

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HEART & MIND

Fac u lt y I n t e rv i ew

When and how did you end up teaching at Kellenberg? I was coaching at Chaminade and also in sales at an outside agency. I was doing well in sales, but I started wondering, “What am I really doing in the great cosmos of the world?” I felt like I was selling products that one doesn’t really need, but its value is based on trends and manipulation of marketing and thought processes. Then in the afternoons I’d go to Chaminade to coach and I witnessed the Marianists and knew they had something of real substance they were putting out there. They were promoting or ‘selling’ something that people actually need. So that's when I started wishing I could be involved full-time. In 1998, a teaching job opened up at Kellenberg, and I was honored to be offered the job. I went and got my master’s in English and the rest is history. What have you taught and moderated during your time here? When I first came here, I taught three English classes and physical education. Then I moved to teaching English full-time with SAT Prep, and now I also teach College Writing. In terms of coaching, I was interested in coaching boys, since I was used to that from my time at Chaminade. But they made me head coach of girls cross country, winter track, and spring track in 1999, and it’s been great - I wouldn’t change a thing. I love it. We turned around the culture of the team. The girls program was a little less well-defined at that time. I remember talking to the girls the first week, and they were looking at me like I had five heads. I was talking about discipline and dedication, when before it was definitely more of a casual environment. Thankfully I had a really strong group of freshman leaders. Not only were they amazingly talented, but they were also very mature. From there, it was a revolution where the unwavering message was, “Track is a serious sport. We’re going to have fun, but we're also going to work really hard.” People say it takes five years to build a program. Well, in 2003, we won our first of many Long Island Catholic Championships. What has been the best part about teaching and coaching at Kellenberg? I think both my colleagues and the kids are the best part. We’re all different, but we’re all really committed to the kids. I remember before I was teaching here I would be at track meets, and I obviously met a lot of teachers and coaches from other schools. I remember a lot of teachers talking about their “steps” or their contracts. 20

HEART & MIND

A FEW MINUTES WITH MR. MARTY BROWN

Members of the girls track and field program surprised Coach Brown with a “driveby of appreciation” on May 15, 2020.

Mr. Brown teaches his sophomore English course.

Here, we’re talking about how to make a lesson better or sharing ideas. Our faculty is highly professional and talented, but of course I have an affinity for the English department. Look at someone like Denis Murphy. His drama productions are flawless. I’ve been going to them for years, and nobody ever misses a line or misses a cue. There is a level of excellence there that I really look up too. I was lucky to have a great mentor in Diane O’Neill when I first started. She was a true educator; tough but fair. She kind of molded me. And of course I admire Cathy von Schoenermarck as a leader. She is passionate about English and dedicated to her coaching. And the kids here at Kellenberg are great. They really are world-class. What is so unique about an education that impacts both the heart and the mind? Again, the faculty here is more concerned with how they can be better teachers than anything else. They are collaborative and have a level of passion and excellence that speaks to success. I’ve worked in the private sector, and I’ve seen excellence and the pursuit of excellence, as well as the culture of weakness and failure. The pursuit of excellence here is inspiring and incorporating spiritual life is central to the mission. We are a Catholic school that not only talks the talk but walks the walk. What do you hope to instill in your students and runners? I hope to instill in them a passion for life; or, as Henry David Thoreau said, “to suck the marrow

out of life.” For me as an athlete, the greatest lesson learned is that there’s always a new day. Everybody falls, but you have to get up the next day and try again. Nobody’s perfect. I try to tell my athletes that you give it your best effort, and if it doesn’t go right, nobody’s going to blame you. We’re all still going to love you. I still have the mind of an athlete. I’ve been through cancer, injuries, a hip surgery… but I knew I was going to come back from them. I knew I’d be back running, teaching, and functioning fully. My favorite quote is Saint Irenaeus: “The glory of God is man fully alive.” I think that the environment here allows for that. The culture of life and the culture of enthusiasm for what you do is promoted. That culture extends to relationships with those who have graduated, as well. There’s always a support system here for anyone who wants to come back and visit. Take for example Fr. Tom. He is so spiritually real and approachable. Students are always jammed into his office; everyone knows they can go to him and he’ll listen. What does the phrase, “Kellenberg Family,” mean to you? That’s why I’m here! It’s not just a phrase here. People come back after they leave as you would in a family. I had a nice time in high school, but I wouldn’t say I have that level of affinity. Once I graduated I almost felt intimidated to go back. It’s so different here. Even though you may graduate and move on, you’re always part of the Firebird family.

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FOREVER FIREBIRDS Maria (Puswald) ’01 & Sean Hansell ’01 Maria (Puswald) and Sean Hansell have been together since they graduated from Kellenberg Memorial in 2001. They married in 2007 and welcomed their daughter, Seane, to the world in 2014. In 2018, they moved to the Big Island of Hawaii. Sean is the Technical Lead for an IT services company based in New York. Maria is an elementary school teacher in Kona. When and how did you meet? Sean and I met early on during freshman year at KMHS. We didn’t have classes together but had a lot of mutual friends. It wasn’t until the end of junior year that we really became close friends. We had history class and lunch together senior year and that brought us together even more. I had no plans of ever dating Sean, but one of the school secretaries (who shall remain nameless) told me that she could tell he was in love with me and that I should eventually think about giving him a chance to be more than a friend. Her words stuck with me because it was extremely out of character for her to say something like that. I took her words to heart and over the next few months realized that she was correct. At the end of our senior year, I decided to give a relationship with Sean a try. We have been together ever since... 19 exciting, loving, adventurous years and counting! When and where were you married? We were married on May 6, 2007, at St. Raymond of Penafort Roman Catholic Church in East Rockaway. Sean had worked there in the rectory for many years and had a deep connection to the church and its people. He went to St. Ray’s for elementary school from 3rd grade through 8th grade, and many of his classmates also attended KMHS. One of our K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

best friends, even to date, Adam Gennari ’01, was at our wedding. We have been so blessed to have him in our lives since freshman year. He was kind enough to help set up some of the decorations at our reception and took one of the most beautiful wedding photos of us on that day. He framed it and gave it to us as a gift and it is one of our favorite treasures, just like our friendship. What is one of the best lessons you each learned during your time at Kellenberg? We learned that working hard will always pay off in the end. We worked so hard during our years at KMHS that college and life after college have basically been a breeze. KMHS taught us how to be lifelong learners and teachers. The faculty and staff taught us that kindness and having an open heart will take you as far as you want to go. You can achieve anything you put your mind to and it will always be more rewarding and memorable if you spread and share your kindness along the way. We never envisioned ourselves living in Hawaii at 35-years-old with our daughter, Seane (6)... but with a few months of careful planning, strategizing, and research, we made it happen. Moving to Kona in May of 2018 was by far one of the best decisions we have ever made. We bought a home here where we gaze at the ocean and sunsets daily and plan

to be here for the rest of our lives. The people here are peaceful, love God, and always spread kindness and aloha. There are many Firebird alumni who have entered into the covenant of marriage together. What about your time at Kellenberg helped prepare you to make and keep the promise of being "true to your spouse in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health?" The adults at KMHS taught us many things about life, love, commitment, and so much more. We learned to never give up on each other, to work as a team and always work hard, apologize when necessary, and to compromise, love, and respect each other. The phrase “Treat others as you want to be treated” floated around KMHS on a daily basis. The more we heard those words, the more we thought about them, and the more we practiced them. We have been through so many ups and downs in life, but we can always count on each other to be there for the help, love, and support that we need. God has definitely watched over us and blessed us in a plethora of ways. We are forever Firebirds and forever grateful for all of the relationships, friendships, and lessons that the Kellenberg family brought to our lives. HEART & MIND

C L A SS N O T ES

RyLeigh ’26 & Tom Nasso ’99

Anthony ’97 & Julianna Cantelmo ’24

’88

Mike Anderson is a retired United States Air Force Colonel. He recently completed his comprehensive exams for a Ph.D. in history at the University of New Hampshire. Mike is currently working on his dissertation and plans to graduate May 2021. He is also teaching online for UNH and Middlesex Community College.

Ann Marie Menna is a practicing attorney, specializing in trusts and estates, elder law, and real estate law. She is proud to announce that her daughter, Amanda, was recently accepted into the musical theater program at the Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS) in New York City.

’89

Christine (O'Hal) and Tom Allen ’88 recently celebrated 27 years of marriage. The couple has five children, and they are proud to announce that their son, Brian, graduated from Marine Corps Basic Training on May 8, 2020. Tom retired from the NYPD in 2012 as a Sergeant Special Assignment, and now works as a solo-practitioner attorney in the area of Federal Employment Law.

’90

Roxana (Fernandez) Lugo and her fellow Firebird class of 1990 alums, Marie (Arlia) Vargas, Kerry (Leahy) Sprague, Michelle (Velasquez) Almonte, Gio Cipriano, and Joe Cox, as well as Sabrina Fernandez ’91, recently caught up on a Zoom call. Roxana said, “That’s friendship and Firebirds. We are so blessed we can still connect even though we are all miles away from each other.”

HEART & MIND

Brianna Stabile ’35 & Mario Lombardo ’24

Michael Annunziata ’01

Adam Coons ’00

’95

Jean-Philippe Charles enlisted in the Marine Corps after graduating from Kellenberg Memorial. He served approximately eight years and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. Upon being honorably discharged, he continued to work for the U.S. government as a contractor for a number of years until being offered the opportunity to join the U.S. Secret Service. He was recently promoted to the rank of Police Lieutenant, U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division. JeanPhillipe writes, “I am hoping to be able to come to the 25-year reunion this year as long as the election/ campaign year schedule doesn't interfere. Take care.” Suzanne (Dlugolonski) Macaulay was recently appointed as the Assistant Director of the Pioneer Library System in Canandaigua, NY. The Pioneer Library System serves the 42 public libraries in Ontario, Wayne, Wyoming, and Livingston counties.

’97

Jay Asparro was named an "Unsung Hero" honoree by the Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center. He has raised over $100,000 for the center. He will be honored later in the year. Mariel Badillo-Pacific and Pietra Noto-Rivera harnessed the power of technology to join together with Mr. Clark Blanton to provide the Firebird Family with a beautiful rendition of "Behold the Lamb of God” in April 2020.

 Kathleen (Coffey) and Anthony Cantelmo are proud that their daughter, Julianna, is a member of Kellenberg Memorial’s class of 2024! Anthony and Julianna are pictured at Registration Night in January.

Tanya (Santiago) and Terrance Jennings welcomed their daughter, Teagan Isabel, in November 2019. Katherine (Moore) Kenney has been a registered nurse on the front lines for over 19 years. She is married to the love of her life with five small children. (Broghammer) and Dominic Stabile are proud to share a #FirebirdFamily photo of their daughter, Future Firebird Brianna ’35 with their nephew, Mario Lombardo ’24.

 Amy

’98

Stephen Canzoneri and his wife, Melissa, welcomed their second child, Nicholas, in November 2019. Big sister Amelia (2) is thrilled to have a partner in crime!

’99

Nasso was proud to escort his daughter, RyLeigh ’26, to her very first Pop Hop dance on January 30, 2020. The moment brought back beautiful memories for his wife, Shane (Wehrum) ’98, from her times with her own dad at the annual fatherdaughter dance!  Tom

’00

Nicole (Jean-Jerome) and Joseph Brennan currently live in Rockville Centre. Nicole teaches science at an elementary school in Ozone Park, and Joe works for an architecture firm in New York City. The couple has two children, Natalie (7) and Joey (1). Jennifer Chung was appointed by Attorney General William Barr as an immigration judge and began hearing cases in January 2020.

Joseph Bacigalupo ’04  Adam Coons, who is an investment adviser with Daniel Investment Associates, LLC, survived an attack by a 15-foot shark while surfing on December 21, 2019. He is truly grateful for the “Christmas miracle” that gave him a new lease on life with his wife, Jackie, and stepson, Tosh. The family resides in Santa Barbara, CA.

Eileen (Higgins) Crosby recently welcomed a beautiful baby girl, Quinn Hope. Danielle (Rutherford) Giossi lives with her husband and two children in South Carolina, where she works as a Senior Vice President at Bank of America. Christina (Tedesco) Joseph has been married for ten years and has two amazing children, Hunter (4.5) and Meadow (2). Christine holds two master’s degrees and has been teaching science for nearly 15 years in Brooklyn. Kristin (Murphy) Kalbaugh and her husband, Gary, were thrilled to welcome their fifth child, John Frederick, to the world on February 13, 2020! Lauren (Rubin) Mehrpour and her husband, Bobby, welcomed their baby boy, Justin Benjamin, to the world on Christmas Eve 2019. Erin (Bates) Ropelewski moved to Fort Sill, OK, in July 2019 with her husband, Adam, who is an Army Officer, and their four daughters. Erin is currently working in the local hospital’s emergency department as a registered nurse and is an adjunct professor for The University of Oklahoma’s Nursing Program.

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C L A SS N O T ES

Chris Kahn ’06

Jennifer (Walsh) Auriemmo ’05

Robert ’05 & Claudia Bacigalupo ’21

Nancy St. Louis was recently a fulltime social worker and a part-time makeup artist. She is now enjoying being a full-time mother to her 8-month-old son.

’01

 Michael Annunziata recently

graduated from the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California. After earning his MBA, Mike joined the Trammell Crow Company in Newport Beach, CA. Before business school, Mike completed seven years of service as an Officer in the US Navy.

’02

Steven Portela is an experienced mechanical engineer and has developed a food prep tool called Roo. Roo is a 100% food-grade silicone mat with a builtin pouch that grips your counter and sits under your favorite cutting board. Roo’s patent-pending pouch drapes over the counter for you to easily collect food scraps to discard later, while the silicone mat prevents your cutting board from sliding around while chopping. To learn more about the project, visit thisisroo.com.

’04

 Joseph Bacigalupo and Karina Solar were married on March 7, 2020, at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Westbury. They reside in New York City, where Joe is a CPA and Karina is an RN at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.

Liz (Onorato) O'Rourke, RN, a registered nurse at North Shore Manhasset Hospital, has been serving as a "surrogate family member" by visiting with those infected with Covid-19 while their loved ones are not permitted to be with them. She K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

Mike Jokinen ’05

and her colleagues also organized donations of iPads to the hospital so that patients can stay connected with their loved ones while in the ICU.

’05

Edwin Aristor married his wife, Lauren, on September 14, 2019. He currently resides in Manhattan and works at LinkedIn. (Walsh) Auriemmo and her husband, Anthony, welcomed their daughter, Cosette Lynn, in March 2019. The family resides in Massapequa Park.

 Jennifer

 Robert Baciagalupo, D.D.S. served as a guest speaker for Kellenberg Memorial’s STEM cluster on February 5, 2020. Dr. Bacigalupo presented on his career as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, while also providing sound information for those considering attending medical school to become a doctor and other careers in medicine. He is pictured after the lecture with his sister, Claudia ’21. Robert and his wife, Kara, welcomed a baby girl, Vivian Grace, into this world in October 2019.

Patrick Booth is a board-certified behavioral analyst and a current doctoral candidate at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. William Earley is engaged to be married to his fiancée, Taylor. Jokinen enlisted in the United States Coast Guard upon graduation from Kellenberg Memorial. He has proudly served for 15 years and has achieved the rank of E6 (1st Class Petty Officer). He is currently serving as an engineering petty officer in Lake Tahoe and is working on advancement to E7 Chief Petty Officer. Mike and his wife,  Mike

Renee Miller ’05 Sarah, are expecting their first child this summer. Trista (Garttner) Kay and her husband, Bryan, welcomed their second daughter, Isabel Grace, in April 2019. They, along with their older daughter Veronica Rose (3), reside in Parsippany, NJ. Erica (Hanley) Keyser has been living in Denver, CO since 2009. She is a Water Resource Engineer for a small consulting firm in San Diego and is raising a family in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Erica and Adam married in 2014 and together have a son, Sean (2). The family visits New York from time to time but calls Colorado home. Sean was baptized in February 2019 at St. Helen's Church in Howard Beach, NY. Krista (Pecoraro) Magno resides in South Carolina, where she recently started a construction company, Rocked Out Construction LLC. Miller, a realtor with The Corcoran Group, was the recipient of the the 2019 President's Council Award, the 2019 Platinum Circle Award, and the 2019 Silver Award. Renee says, “I'm proud to be a recipient of these amazing honors and cannot wait to continue working with commitment, passion, and integrity in the real estate business.”

 Renee

Andrew Nelson graduated magna cum laude from Adelphi University with a Master’s Degree in Physical Education in December 2019. John Orr was recently promoted to lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy. He is married with three children and is currently attending Navy Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA.

Christina (Bonke) Arbogast ’06 Kelly Sullivan started a new job in July 2019 as a Professional Development and Implementation Success Associate for Greatminds working with the Eureka Math curriculum. Pasquale Tolomeo was married in May 2017. He recently graduated an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency at NYU Langone Health in June 2020 and is attending a full body cosmetic fellowship.

’06

 Christina (Bonke) Arbogast and her husband, Travis, welcomed their daughter, Liesel Noelle, into the world in March 2020.

Patsy (Coppola) Graham, RN, wife of faculty member Mr. Dennis Graham ’03, was honored at the opening of the NY Stock Exchange on April 6, 2020. Patsy has been on the front lines battling Covid-19 at North Shore University Hospital. The news was proudly reported by Tara Joyce, anchor at News 12 (and Patsy’s best friend)! Kahn, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Colleen, welcomed their first son, Gavin Christopher, in April 2020.

 Chris

Julia Schuble recently accepted a new position with the United States Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration. She works in Washington, D.C. as an Industry and Business Analyst, specifically in investment security.

’07

Chris Lyons, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Megan, welcomed their son, Bryce Patrick, in May 2020. HEART & MIND

C L A SS N O T ES

Victoria (Pisciotta) ’08 & Dan Brennan ’09

Kathleen Ackert ’12

Kim (Lastig) ’09 & Eddie Crean ’09

Flo Maroney ’08

’08

 Victoria

(Pisciotta) Brennan, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, married fellow faculty member, Daniel Brennan ’09, on November 8, 2019. A Nuptial Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Robert Brennan, Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., and Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 at Notre Dame Parish in New Hyde Park. Many Firebird alumni were in attendance at the reception, which was held at The Royalton Mansion in Roslyn Heights. Maroney ran 50 miles over the course of the weekend of May 16, 2020, in order to raise money for The Henry Chapin Food Bank at Long Island Cares during the Covid-19 pandemic.  Flo

’09

(Lastig) and Eddie Crean were married at Maria Regina Church in Seaford on November 1, 2019. A reception followed at the Heritage Club at Bethpage State Park. Many members of the Firebird family were in attendance!

’10

Michael Brodnansky is graduating from New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine and moving to San Diego, CA, to transition to active duty as a U.S. Navy physician. Wayne Bryce recently began a new job at Hofstra University teaching Experimental Biology. Jennifer Drummond recently graduated from the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra-Northwell and is completing her residency in internal medicine at Tufts Medical Center.

 Kim

Alyssa D'Antonio was recently honored with the 2020 Young Leader Award by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. She received the award on March 25, 2020, at Sixty LES in Manhattan at the Spring into Action event. Alyssa reflected on the honor saying, “The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation does amazing work, and I am honored to have been involved with them for over 10 years.” Luke Heneghan and his sister, Kiera ’11, opened Bright Eye Beer Co., a brewery in Long Beach, in February 2020. Visit brighteyebeerco.com for updated hours of operation. Maggie Seitz and Danny Duenas were engaged on October 5, 2019. 24

The couple met on Kellenberg Memorial’s Science Olympiad team and look forward to getting married next year.

HEART & MIND

Dave Fitzpatrick and Christopher La Rosa co-founded a video ad agency called Genmotion in 2017. They work with brands around the country and are based on Long Island. Chris and Dave are celebrating three years in business this year. Colleen Meenan completed her first marathon, the 49th TCS New York City Marathon, on November 2, 2019. Nick Meoli is engaged to be married. Jillian Muhlbauer was a proud member of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine’s class of 2019. Lauren O'Grady and Owen Hammond were engaged on January 19, 2020. Maria Ostermann is engaged to be married. Jennifer Rizza is getting married on June 27, 2020, to Martin W. Abrams III.

’11

Arthur Morales is a Class Officer and Navigation Instructor at Officer Training Command Newport, RI. He recently graduated a class of 85 of the U.S. Navy's newest officers.

 LeeAnna (Matarazzo) Pachter was married on August 3, 2019, in Washington, D.C.

Elizabeth Sarian, a mezzo-soprano Artist-in-Residence with The Atlanta Opera, has been recording special "Singing Telegrams" to lift the spirits of those in need during the Covid-19 pandemic. Elizabeth hopes to continue this work in the New York area as well.

’12

 Kathleen Ackert, DO graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine with her Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine degree in May 2020. She was named the most Outstanding Graduating Medical Student in her class and was honored with the "Soul of Medicine" Award by the Philadelphia Chapter of Physicians for Social Responsibility. Dr. Ackert will be moving to Bethlehem, PA to complete her residency in Obstetrics & Gynecologic Surgery. She is pictured with Dr. Jay Feldman, President & CEO of PCOM, and Dr. Ken Veit, Dean of PCOM.

Lippolis is manager of Shin’s Ninja Athletes, an American Ninja Warrior studio in Garden City. Matt is assisted by fellow alumni, Mark ’17 and Matthew ’19 Franolich. The state-of-the-art facility recently celebrated its one-year anniversary and is always looking to add more additions from the Firebird family.  Matthew

LeeAnna (Matarazzo) Pachter ’11 Madeline Strack was recently highlighted on WJLA, the local ABC affiliate for the greater Washington, DC area, as part of their coverage on healthcare during the Covid-19 pandemic. Madeline is a registered nurse in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Children's National Hospital in Washington, DC.

’13

 MaryKate

McGovern graduated from Molloy College School of Nursing and is currently an emergency room nurse at Northwell Health Long Island Jewish Hospital. She has been treating COVID patients and prays that all of her fellow Kellenberg classmates and faculty are healthy and doing well.

Pappalardo has earned the official title of licensed and NYS registered Occupational Therapist. She says, “I am overjoyed to dedicate my life to helping others participate in the activities most meaningful to them, despite any illness or disability!”

 CapriAnna

Colleen (Thornton) and Lawrence Vacchio were married on April 18, 2020. The couple, who met during Triple A in 2009, can’t wait to celebrate with friends, family, and fellow Firebird alumni once the pandemic is over!

’14

Kayla Fernando will attend Duke University this fall to pursue a Ph.D. in neurobiology. After graduating from Kellenberg, Kayla attended Boston College and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology in 2018. She has been working as a research assistant at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston for the last two years. During college, Kayla spent two summers interning at the Feinstein

A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

C L A SS N O T ES

Christian Pettinato ’16

Courtesy of Barry Williams, NY Daily News

CapriAnna Pappalardo ’13 & Nick Adamo ’12

Mark Franolich ’19, Matthew Lippolis ’12, & Matthew Franolich ’17

Institute for Medical Research in Manhasset before completing a senior honors thesis in an on-campus lab. She's been closely following the upgrades to Kellenberg's STEM curriculum and facilities, and is very excited to see the community grow and inspire a new generation of scientists. Haslbauer returned to campus on March 5, 2020, to speak to Freshman/Sophomore C.R.O.S.S. (Christians Reaching Out Spreading Spirituality) about her faith development that started at Kellenberg and continued at St. John's University as a Catholic scholar in undergrad and in her Theology graduate studies.  Rose

Krista King, a three-time CHSAA State Champion, was recently elected into the New York State Softball Hall of Fame by the New York State Sportswriters and Coaches Organization for Girls Sports (NYSSCOGS). Krista is only the third hall of famer chosen from the NSCHSGAA, and the first honoree in Kellenberg Memorial's history. Melissa O'Brien graduated from Stony Brook University in May 2019 and is now working for the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce as the Marketing and Communications Manager.

’15

Leila Burbar graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Molecular and Cell Biology. She now attends University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. Joseph Del Vicario is currently in his first year at Fordham University’s School of Law. He is also a research

K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

MaryKate McGovern ’13

fellow at the Center on National Security at Fordham. Jazmine Fray recently won two NCAA championships for Texas A&M and signed a professional running contract with Under Armour. Jazmine writes, “I want to give a huge thank you to my high school coach at Kellenberg Memorial, Marty Brown, for always believing in me and pushing me to do my best. Without him I do not believe I would be where I am today. I’m so excited for this new journey and chapter in my life. I couldn’t have asked God for a better start for the new decade of 2020.” Gabrielle Harvey recently graduated from Fairfield University and is now working as a Financial Analyst at ViacomCBS. Cara Lee graduated summa cum laude from Fairfield University with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature, as well as Film, Television and Media Arts, with additional concentrations in Digital Journalism and Women and Gender Studies. Cara has temporarily moved to Orlando, FL for a position working for The Walt Disney Company in Walt Disney World. John Liguori was recently elected to the position of 2nd Lieutenant of Tally Ho Chemical Engine Company No.3 of the Lynbrook Fire Department. Rudd Lowry recently graduated from Molloy College with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He also got married and bought his first home! Andrew Manzo recently graduated from Pace University's Lubin School of Business with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing- Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications. While

Bro. Patrick Cahill, S.M., Mrs. Trista Harnisch, Rose Haslbauer ’14, & Mr. James O'Brien

attending school, he completed a communications internship at the Hillary for America campaign, as well as public relations internships at Moschino & Jeremy Scott and Versace. In October 2019, he began a position with Cartier as a Celebrity and Influencer Management Assistant. Thomas Mascia recently graduated from the New York State Police 209th Basic School and is now a NYS Trooper. Andrew McPherson recently accepted his first post-graduate, full-time job working as an Electrical Engineer with Lockheed Martin. He says, “I feel very blessed receiving this opportunity. I will continue to work hard and let the Marianist mission guide me along the right path. One Heart & One Mind, God Bless!” Derrick Okunpolor, who holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with a minor in marketing from Molloy College, currently serves as Assistant Negotiator, Media Investment at GroupM/Mediacom. During his time at Molloy, Derrick consistently made the dean’s list and was an athletic honor roll student. He helped lead Molloy to the program’s first-ever mens East Coast Conference Championship, as well as its inaugural NCAA tournament appearance. Derrick is currently working on a master’s degree and serving as an assistant coach for Molloy’s men’s basketball program. Samantha Pajonas graduated from Fordham University with a bachelor’s degree in visual arts and architecture in May 2019. Denise Pasculo is currently earning a master’s in education degree to become a certified elementary special education teacher.

Dylan Sandas created the “Empire State Sports Show” at WRHU, Radio Hofstra University, in October 2016. It became the most popular sports talk show at the station, and the only one and a half hour weekly talk show on the WRHU. In December 2019, he was named Associate Producer of NBAtv for the Long Island Nets, which entails going to Nassau Coliseum for Nets home games and handling things such as spell checking graphics, working with graphics coordinators, coordinating with the NBA and ESPN for livestreams, and working with industry professionals from MSG. Emma Schroeder graduated summa cum laude from Hofstra University with a bachelor of science degree in exercise science in May 2019. She then began an accelerated nursing program at Stony Brook University, from which she graduated with a bachelor of science degree in nursing in May 2020. Stephanie Smith graduated from Marist College in May 2019 with a bachelor of science degree in human resources and now works at BlackRock in Talent Acquisition Operations. Rob Stewart graduated from Fairfield University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and accepted a full time position with Deloitte. Kristie Thilman graduated with honors from St. John’s University in May 2019 and accepted a job offer with Broadridge Financial Solutions as an Information Technology Service Delivery Engineer.

’16

Pettinato is currently completing a bachelor's degree in security systems from Farmingdale State College with plans to begin an MBA program in the fall of 2020. He is also activated  Christian

HEART & MIND

C L A SS N O T ES

Andrew Ammazzalorso ’17

Rebecca McCallin ’17 with the Army National Guard with Task Force Empire Shield working on operation Covid-19 by providing security at testing sites at multiple local testing sites. Patrick Pallisco graduated from The Catholic University of America with a bachelor of arts degree in Classical Humanities, Phi Beta Kappa and summa cum laude, in May 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, his plans to travel to Amelia, Italy, this summer to complete a postgraduate certificate in Cultural Heritage and Art Law have been postponed until summer 2021. Following his time in Italy, Patrick will spend a year of studying Modern Greek at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece before heading to law school.

Gabby Buissereth ’18

’17

 Andrew

Ammazzalorso, a pitcher for the Nassau Lions, founded The Keep Smiling Foundation to raise awareness and funds in support of fighting pancreatic cancer. The foundation is in memory of Andrew's father, Michael, who lost his battle with the disease in 2015. Deirdre Buckley was inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athlete Honor Society on April 16, 2020. Deirdre, who is majoring in Childhood Education, is a member of the Lacrosse team at SUNY Oneonta.

McCallin, who is entering her senior year as a biology major at Duquesne University, is putting the Emergency Medical Technician certification she earned at Kellenberg to good use by serving as an EMT at the Port Washington Volunteer  Rebecca

Caitlin McDaniels ’18 & Arielle Francois ’18

Erik Brown ’19 & Fred Zenny ’19

Fire Department. She serves as the technician in charge and was recently EVOC certified to drive the ambulance.

’18

 Gabby Buissereth recently completed her sophomore year at Adelphi University. Following her first-place finish at the Spartan Invitational, Gabby was named Track Athlete of the Week by the Northeast-10 Conference in January 2020. She was also the recipient of the Cecil K. Watkins Award at the Adelphi Athletics’ 18th Annual Black History Month celebration on February 6, 2020. At the NE10 Indoor Championships in February, Gabby won two first-place medals, anchored the winning 4X400 relay team, and received two major awards— Most Valuable Female Athlete of the Meet and Track Athlete of the Meet.

 Caitlin McDaniels and Arielle Francois are both proud members of St. John's University's Dance Team, which won the National Championship on January 19, 2020.

Sydney Proux recently received the SUNY Oneonta 2019-2020 Susan Sutton Smith Award for academic excellence, which is awarded to students with a grade-point average of 3.9 or higher. Sydney is entering her junior year at Oneonta and majoring in psychology.

’19

Brown and Fred Zenny, who run for the Fordham University and Stony Brook University track programs, respectively, were happy to see each other at the Robert Elkin Invitational at Fordham on January 10, 2020.  Erik

F irebird A lumni faculty Four Firebird alumni are proud teachers at Our Lady of Victory Elementary School in Floral Park, NY. Pictured together are Brendan Gilroy ’13, who is teaching seventh and eighth-grade history and eighth-grade religion; Julianne DeLay ’12, who is teaching fifth and sixth-grade ELA; Katie Howfield ’12, teaching Pre-K; and Carly Montgomery ’13, teaching sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade health and physical education for all grade levels.

Professional Directory

Lac rosse Alum n i Stephen McAllister ’19, Joe Grimm ’17, P.J. Darmody ’18, Joe Tallini ’19, Marco Mongelli ’17, and Brendan Kelly ’17 met up with Lacrosse Assistant Coach Mr. Mike Tahany at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy vs. Salve Regina University lacrosse game on February 29, 2020. 26

HEART & MIND

We are acutely aware that the repercussions of Covid-19 reach far and wide to all the members of the Firebird Family. In particular, those who own or operate small businesses are suffering greatly right now. We are encouraging all alumni, alumni parents, current parents, and friends of KMHS who own businesses to visit kellenberg.org/business-directory-listing/ to be featured in our business directory, or to search for a business to support! This directory will give those in the KMHS community who are looking for a particular good or service the opportunity to support a fellow Firebird. Stay in touch by sending your Class Notes to alumni@kellenberg.org! A K E L L E N B E RG M E M O R I A L FA M I LY P U B L I CAT I O N

CONGRATULATIONS & FAREWELL TO

In Memoriam The Kellenberg Memorial family extends its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of recently departed alumni and friends. To inform the school of the death of a member of the Firebird family, please contact alumni@kellenberg.org. Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, and all the souls of the faithful departed, through Your mercy, rest in peace. Amen.

MR. CLARK BLANTON

This spring marked the culmination of Mr. Clark Blanton’s teaching career at Kellenberg Memorial. He is one of the original members of the founding faculty and staff of Kellenberg Memorial in 1987. Mr. Blanton’s work has put the school on the map for the talent of its Music Department. We are grateful for his 33 years of service as the chorus director, music teacher, founding moderator of the Firebird Swing Jazz Ensemble, and Chairman of the Music Department. Congratulations and best wishes for the next step in your life’s journey, Mr. Blanton!

A LU M N I N O T E S of G R AT I T U D E Amy (Scatamacchia) Russo ’97: I am grateful for delicious and comforting food and the means to obtain it. I am grateful for the technology that keeps us connected and has even allowed long-distance relationships to strengthen during this time. I am grateful for books and music and the talented people who create them for our enjoyment and enrichment. I am grateful for all of the people who put their health and safety on the line every day to do above and beyond what was ever expected of them. I am grateful for God staying near us and not abandoning us, even in the darkest moments. CapriAnna Pappalardo ’13: I am deeply proud and grateful for all my OT and healthcare friends and colleagues for their daily sacrifice and hard work to keep our community safe and well taken care of! I am also extra proud of Nick Adamo ’12 for getting an amazing new job this year and for being an essential civil engineer contributing to the structural necessities of this current crisis. We’re all in this together - Go Firebirds! Caroline Fenton ’14: I am so grateful for the home Kellenberg provides for its students and for the formation that has allowed so many to enter into helping professions on the frontlines of COVID-19. I am especially grateful for the health of family & friends and for the community I continue to find in the relationships I formed at Kellenberg. Thank you to each member of the Kellenberg family who is working to support one another and lift others up during this time. Ann Vogel ’16: I am grateful for my friends and family who embrace technology as a means of communication. Keeping in touch with loved ones is something that I have always valued, but now more than ever I am more thankful for everyone in my life. Andréa Goodman ’17: Just as Jesus carried His cross, we all have our cross to carry. During this time, it is our fellow Kellenberg Alumni that are handling this head on. They are carrying the cross with their heads held high. The journey is rough but the result is gratifying. Thank you to all those who are handling this that put others before themselves. Meredith Kass ’19: During this time of uncertainty, I’ve found so many things to be thankful especially as a member of the Kellenberg family. I’m extremely thankful for Bro. Kenneth and the Marianist family for keeping the faith and Firebird spirit alive. It also warms my heart to see so many alumni on the front lines working so hard to help those affected by Covid-19. As a future healthcare worker, I find it so inspiring to see so many past Firebirds serving others during this crisis. I am absolutely honored to be an alumna and now coach at such an amazing school that I can confidently call home. Thank you to the entire Kellenberg family! And thank you especially to all the healthcare workers on the frontlines! K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

James Anfolisi, father of Giana ’26 Daisy Rodriguez Baez, mother of Andrew Baez ’07 Michael Banks ’07 Elias Beyrouty, father of faculty member Mr. Joseph Beyrouty ’92, father-in-law of Meghan (Gaven) Beyrouty ’92, and father of Christine Beyrouty ’94 Kathleen & Joseph Haller, parents of Kimberly (Haller) Berg ’89 Joseph Camillery, father of Christoper ’92 Marion Conrade, mother of Mr. Kenneth Conrade and grandmother of Stephanie Conrade ’19 and Latin School alumnus Ken Conrade Peter Cummings, husband of Carol, former KMHS staff member, and father of Kerry (Cummings) Shimaitis ’91 Don DeFino, member of the athletic staff and father of Joanne ’98, Jaclyn ’02, and Jennifer ’06 Naishad Doctor, father of Kieran ’08 and Sean ’12 Joseph Farrell, father of Catherine ’21 and Joseph, Jr. ’22 Devin Finneran, son of Christine (Ferrier) Finneran ’92 Tara Foley ’92 Kathleen Garcia, mother of Richard ’06 and mother-in-law to Katherin (Graves) Garcia ’06 Kathryn Griffin, grandmother of Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 Daniela Hernandez, daughter of Frank Hernandez ’91 Brother Ray Kane, S.M., friend of KMHS Tara Knox ’14 Father Ernest P. Lorfanfant, S.M., brother of Jacqueline Klimkowski, retired faculty member, and uncle of Christine ’97 and Margaret ’06 Klimkowski Rachel Lozano, friend of KMHS Fred McCants, KMHS Staff Member Michael Messina, father of Michael ’19 and Kaitlyn ’23 Lawrence Moderno, father of Matthew ’96 and Carmela ’97 Robert Nemeck, father of Robert ’20 Matthew Pokalsky ’92 Amy Rasch ’96 Emmanuel Roco ’89 Carl Soller, husband of staff member Anne Soller and father of Katie ’04 Catherine Turner, mother of Colleen ’08, Thomas ’11, Liam ’15, and Bryan ’21 HEART & MIND

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Parents of Alumni, If your son or daughter no longer maintains permanent residence at your home, please notify the Alumni Office of his/her new mailing address at 516-292-0200 x 396 or alumni@kellenberg.org

SAVE THE DATE Class

1995

25 Year Reunion

Class

1990

30 Year Reunion

S aturday , O ctober 24 TH

S aturday , N ovember 7 TH

Reunions

for the Classes of 2000, 2005, 2010, & 2015

S aturday , N ovember 28 TH

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