Heart & Mind - Winter 2022 by Kellenberg Memorial High School

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The new Writing Lab program at Kellenberg Memorial is giving Firebird students their literary wings so that they can successfully f ly anywhere their academic passions lead them. Page 6

Winter 2022

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In Memoriam Father Philip Eichner, S.M. 1935-2022 Page 2

HEART & MIND

FAT H E R P H I L I P E I C H N E R , S. M .

In Memoriam

Father Philip Karl Eichner, S.M. 1935 - 2022

On January 1, 2022, Father Philip K. Eichner, S.M. died in the service of the Blessed Virgin Mary with 67 years of religious profession. A man of great faith, intellect, and humor, Father Philip served as President of Chaminade High School from 1967 to 1992, President of Kellenberg Memorial High School from 1987 to 2018, and Provincial of the Province of Meribah from 1984 to 1992. In a 2018 interview with Heart & Mind upon which he reflected on 50 years as a school administrator, Father Philip said, “Ultimately, it is the quality of our hearts that counts the most, not our intellectual or personal skills or material achievements.” His legacy shall live on ad infinitum in the hearts and minds of the members of the Firebird Family.

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

Dear Members of the Kellenberg Memorial Family

A Letter from the Principal

few months ago we were discussing the theme of this issue of Heart & Mind. We settled upon The Art of Writing and Its Importance Across All Disciplines, something Kellenberg has always valued as a key pillar in our educational philosophy. I can’t think of a better theme to feature as we reflect on the life, witness, and gifts of Father Philip Eichner, S.M., the founding President of Kellenberg Memorial. He was a linguist who had the utmost respect for words - probably because of his love for “The Word Himself who became man and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Father Philip passed away on January 1, 2022. In 1987 when Kellenberg Memorial opened its doors, Father Philip had already completed 20 years of service as President of Chaminade High School. For the next five years he was president of both high schools. After retiring as President of Chaminade in 1992, he continued as President of Kellenberg Memorial until 2018. His service as the chief administrator spanned six decades. What a blessing! There isn’t any aspect of Kellenberg Memorial that we could not trace back to his influence. He had a vision for what could be; he had the courage to move forward with his vision; and he had the fortitude to follow through with fulfilling the vision. Describe anything unique to Kellenberg, and you will find Father Philip’s influence. Let’s start with the landscaping that surrounds Kellenberg Memorial. I do not think it an exaggeration to say that he is responsible for over a thousand trees planted on the property. He would have liked to have been a farmer. “Atmosphere educates,” and he certainly created a campus that welcomed students and their families to our school. The Queen of Apostles Courtyard, Madonna Pavilion, and Maria Regina Terrace reflect his love of nature and his devotion to Mary, the Mother of our Lord. The “atmosphere” within the building also gleams with his emphasis on beauty. His war against cinder block was won by steady perseverance in applying mosaic butcher block wood panels, vinyl sheetrock, and stucco to cover over the institutional appearance of the building we inherited. More importantly, it was his wisdom in guiding a new and young faculty in methods of educating not only the minds of the students but also their hearts. It was while he was

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constructing the turtle pond in the Maria Regina Terrace that he came up with the acronym COR to guide us in creating a code of discipline that would emphasize Civility, Order, and Respect - a guiding principle that we reaffirm to this day. Kellenberg Memorial is known for its fervent Catholic Identity. We are grateful for Father Philip’s religious sensitivity and formation in faith. Father Philip was a profound spiritual leader and a true gift to our school community. Thousands of students benefited from his popular Latin classes, which most of his students describe as “Life & Latin” with the emphasis on life lessons. Who didn’t go to him for advice and guidance? He was surrounded by owls gifted to him by people who appreciated his deep wisdom. He loved the Book of Wisdom. So many more students benefited from his homilies at school Masses or his retreat presentations at Founders Hollow, a place that was near and dear to his heart. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the many lives he touched by including students and faculty in his cooking adventures at Kellenberg and Founder’s Hollow. On a personal note, I was appointed principal in 1994 at a fairly young age. He was my mentor, spiritual advisor, and friend. I know that many of our administrators and teachers can say the same. G.K. Chesterton wrote,“It is difficult to believe that people who are obviously careless about language can really be careful about anything else.” Father Philip was truly a masterful linguist. He pulled words apart and dug deep into the etymology of each one, whether it was Greek, Hebrew, or Latin in origin. He was exceptionally careful about language. Because he was so careful about words, he could be trusted with everything else. How appropriate that this issue of Heart & Mind should be focused on the Art of Writing. Thank you Father Philip for sharing your life, words, and deeds with us. We are indeed blessed to be able to build on the foundation you have laid at Kellenberg Memorial High School.

To Jesus through Mary,

Brother Kenneth M. Hoagland, S.M. Principal

HEART & MIND

TA B L E O F C O N T E N TS

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

FOREVER FIREBIRDS

SCHOOL NEWS FEED

FAC U LT Y I N T E RV I E W:

C OV E R S T O R Y

SPORTS

CLASS NOTES

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

FUTURE FIREBIRDS &

S T. M A R T I N D E P O R R E S N E W S

A L U M N I B OA R D

A L U M N I AT H L E T E N E W S

ALUMNI EVENTS

IN MEMORIAM

FA L L R E U N I O N S

M R S . D I A N E PAG E

C E L E B R AT I O N S

Heart & Mind, the magazine of Kellenberg Memorial High School, is published twice a year & distributed to all alumni, parents, alumni parents, faculty, administration, & friends of KMHS.

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N Principal Bro. Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. A DVA N C E M E N T Director of Advancement Mrs. Denise Miles Director of Alumni Mr. Thomas Huggard

Sports

A L U M N I B OA R D Anthony Cantelmo ’97, President Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo ’11 Meredith (DePalma) Heine ’02 Eileen (Owen) Henke ’98 Eddie Jordan ’13 Michelle Mastricovo ’11 Adam Rossol ’97 Michael Warner ’04 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 James Campbell ’24 Ernesto Feliciano ’22 Brother Roger Poletti, S.M.

HEART & MIND

Eye on the Latin School

Reunions

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

CELEBRATIONS OF 1

Top: On November 12, members of the freshman and sophomore classes gathered for the CROSS (Christians Reaching Our Spreading Spirituality) Evening of Recollection. The night kicked off in the auditorium, where students listened to talks from their Marianist Mentors, the leaders from the senior class who guide the underclassman homerooms. The event proceeded with prayer, games, activities, and a pizza dinner. Bishop Andrzej Zglejszewski was a special guest for the evening and led students through Adoration in the gym. He spoke about the importance for Catholics to attend Mass regularly. 1. On September 14, the Kellenberg Memorial school community was thrilled to celebrate the annual Triumph of the Cross Prayer Service for the first time in two years. Special guest Archbishop Christopher Cardone, O.P., who is the brother of Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., was the celebrant for the prayer service. Music was provided by the Gregorium Consortium and students enjoyed snacks and free time together outside after the service. 2. On December 8, the Firebird community was blessed by a visit from Most Reverend John Barres, Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre, to celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Bishop Barres celebrated two Masses: one for the freshman and sophomore classes and one for the junior and senior classes. The school was also blessed by the presence of four Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist. The sisters toured the school and shared lunch with members of the Adele Club, which is Kellenberg’s vocation club for young women. Bishop Barres administers Holy Communion to Xavier Da Silva ’23. 3. Sister Mary Dominic, O.P. joins Violette Aboueid ’22 and Katharine Barberi ’22 at the Adele Club lunch in the Millennium Room. 4. As another joyful sign of the return to normalcy, Kellenberg Memorial was able to host Grandparents Days Masses and Brunches for each grade level this fall. Grandparents accompanied their Firebird grandchildren on September 19, September 26, October 3, and October 17 for Mass, followed by socially distanced brunches. Following brunch, students were free to bring their grandparents on tours through the building. Grandparents were thrilled to get a glimpse at the hallways and classrooms where their grandchildren receive a Marianist education of the heart and mind each day. Edward Cosgrove, grandfather of Ryan Varley ’22, showed his KMHS spirit by buying his very own “senior sweater” in the Phoenix Emporium at the Grandparents Mass and Brunch for Juniors and Seniors on September 19. 5. Annie Pugh ’24 and her grandmother, Kathleen Morrongello P’94,’97, were greeted by Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. and Beato at the Sophomore Grandparents Day on September 26. 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

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11 August 9:59AM

24 Kellenberg students met with Marianist students nationwide to participate in Marianist LIFE, a week-long virtual retreat over Zoom meetings. The main goal of the program was “to build Christian community,” sharing unique ideas of how we can further build community within their own parishes and schools. #ARK #MarianistLife

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2 October 1:33PM

Thanks for visiting us at our Open House! We hope you enjoyed exploring our campus, visiting our new STEM Center, chatting with our students, parents, faculty, and administration (and meeting the dogs)! #ForeveraFirebird #FutureFirebirds. Pictured top: Francesca Mango ’24 shares her Science Olympiad experiences with a prospective family. Bottom: Edward McCann P’21,’22, Andrea (Licari) Petrosky ’91, P’22,’26, Natalie Capasso ’19, and Mrs. Peggy (Ranieri) York ’03 lead a discovery room discussion.

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14 August 6:45PM

KMHS welcomed some of our newest Firebirds at our first “beach chair” Mass commemoriating the Assumption of Our Lady at the end of summer, celebrated by Fr. Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02. #ForeveraFirebird #OneHeartOneMind

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30 October 5:00PM

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5 October 11:35AM

The Kellenberg family had a scary good time at the Firebird Fall Festival. The festival was a way for families to be able to have a fun night while also welcoming them onto campus and introducing them to Kellenberg’s student life. Pictured above is Chrystelle Senatus ’22 and her family enjoying the photobooth. #firebirdfallfestival #halloween

Bishop Thomas Paprocki visited Kellenberg, joined by Bishop John Barres, and spoke with a number of our students about his experience of faith and athletics, running marathons, & growing up playing hockey. @BishopPaprocki @RVCDiocese @BishopBarres 6

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

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

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18 October 12:15PM

Chemistry students celebrate Chemistry Week with iodine clock reaction labs after-school in the Jim & Diane Rowen STEM Center. #KMHSstem #Chemistry Week

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3 December 10:15PM

The Gregorian Consortium takes on NYC! They got to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. The highlight of the night was their performance @RadioCity before the Christmas Spectacular!

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2 November 1:25PM

Dawn DeStefano, Associate Dean of Molloy School of Business, visited with students of the Business & Finance Club to speak on business strategy and marketing. @molloycollege #oneheartonemind

Phoenix Emporium News The school store has been stocking their shelves with new items with you in mind! Take a look through their online shelves at:

shop.kellenberg.org

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21 November 5:15PM

Godspell spreads the Good News as KMHS’s Drama Club presented three weekend performances the weekend of Friday, November 19 through Sunday, November 21. The leading role of Jesus was played by Jake Truncale ’23, Judas was portrayed by Connor Nelson ’22, and the role of John the Baptist was performed by Chase Filandro ’23.

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HEART & MIND

and Its Importance Across All Disciplines

C OV E R ST O RY

Since the doors of Kellenberg Memorial High School opened in the fall of 1987, the school’s curriculum, campus, apostolic activities, athletics, and extracurriculars have constantly evolved in order to prepare Firebirds for success after graduation. Some more recent, pivotal adaptations have included an expanded science, technology, engineering, and mathematics curriculum and the newly created Jim and Diane Rowen STEM Center. As Kellenberg continues to adapt its curriculum to ensure its graduates are ready to succeed in college and beyond, there are certain aspects of the education of the heart and mind that remain absolute in their importance. The most central of these are the teachings of the Catholic Church, the nurturing of each student’s personal relationship with God, and the focus on bringing Jesus’ love to all through acts of service and kindness. This fall, Kellenberg Memorial expanded its curriculum yet again to include a new class called The Writing Lab. The unparalleled liberal arts education that the school provides has historically produced wise, principled graduates with strong writing skills. These writing skills serve as an invaluable foundation for students to flourish in their chosen areas of study in college and beyond.

The Art of Writing continues on Page 10 HEART & MIND

”

The Writing Lab is giving Firebird students their literary wings so that they can successfully fly anywhere their academic passions lead them.

” Firebird Alumni

on the Art of Writing

Jessica Sherman ’98

Biological Science Technician (Soils) at US Department of Agricultural Research Services

HEART & MIND

“Writing is a critical component of scientific research; why do research at all if not to communicate your findings with your peers and community? Writing papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals and serving as a peer editor are what most people think of when they hear “scientific writing,” but there is more to

doing research than that final interpretation of the data, although that is a metric of success. I write every day. Doing field and plot scale research requires copious and detailed note-taking to document essential observational information in addition to quantitative measurements. I regularly use my technical writing skills in developing standard operating procedures that must be easily followed and replicable and in developing project proposals that are reviewed by peers as well as stakeholders of various backgrounds. Understanding one’s audience and using appropriate terminology is another important scientific writing skill. Whenever I write, it’s never just for me; it has to be clear, accurate, and easily understood by my colleagues, peers, and the agricultural community at large in order to make the biggest impact and contribution to society possible. I enjoy what I do because I feel like I’m answering important questions about protecting the environment while maintaining productivity in dairy forage systems, and I couldn’t do that successfully without being able to communicate with the written word.”

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C OV E R ST O RY

After 18 months of upheaval in the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic, most students entering Kellenberg this fall were doing so after a year-anda-half of virtual instruction. The nature of remote learning at the elementary level did not lend itself to sound writing instruction. With the knowledge that the art of writing is the foundation that supports learning across the curriculum, the KMHS English department determined the need to get back to basics by breaking down language into its basic components. Therefore, every freshman student takes The Writing Lab, a new, halfunit course based on a proven instructional strategy called the Hochman Method. Founded by Dr. Judith C. Hochman and carefully outlined in her book

Chris Murray ’95

Gary Jansen ’88, P’21

“Written communication in business is key and is a big reflection on your personal brand, which is paramount for your success. What you communicate and how you communicate it reveal a lot about you. It’s important that you are delivering an authentic message in a clear and concise way. In today’s world where we are all bombarded with media and content, less is always more.”

“Writing is one of the most important skill sets if you want to be successful. Getting good at putting your thoughts down on paper creates focus, improves critical thinking, and lets you tap into your creativity. Each of us is a wellspring of ideas, experiences, thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and when we express something inside of us in an outward way through writing, we create something unique. We create a new reality.

Partner, Executive Vice President, Head of Inside Sales at Wheels Up

Award-winning author, speaker, and editor Director at Loyola Press

In the Gospel of John, we read, ‘In the beginning was the Word.’ Jesus is that Word, and creation begins with a Word. So it is for

The Writing Revolution (coauthored with Natalie Wexler), the Hochman Method enables students to master the skills that are essential if they are to become competent writers. In turn, those skills equip students to become better readers, to communicate more effectively in writing and speaking, and most importantly, to elevate their thinking. Co-chairperson of the English department Mrs. Cathy von Schoenermarck explains the goal of The Writing Lab, saying, “While there is definitely a place for holistic writing, we really need to give our students a sort of writing boot camp after the many months of virtual learning they endured... The Art of Writing continues on Page 31

us. We create through our words, and our words are sacred, though we often act as if they aren’t. We raise people up and tear people down with our words. We determine who we are by our words. Words can change the course of global history or change the happenings of an ordinary day. They can form and destroy relationships, so words are not only powerful, they can be dangerous. When you can use words constructively, however, you assist in being a very special co-creator of the world around you. Don’t believe me? Imagine two people: one says, ‘I’m a winner’ all the time. The other says, ‘I’m a loser.’ Which one is going to succeed in life? My bet is on the one who uses words of ascension. Words have power. Writing helps to unlock that power. On the practical side, if you are a good writer, you’ll excel in all your studies and in your professional life. Why? Because so many people are bad writers, they jumble their words, which means they jumble their thoughts. And confusion never leads to success. To be able to express yourself clearly gives you an edge that can help you write an article, draw up a contract, express your love, and ultimately assist you in fulfilling your dreams.”

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HEART & MIND

S P O R TS

S P O RTS by Mr. Doug Cioffi ’97

HEART & MIND

After 33 years, over 100 wins, and a number of championships, Kevin Hanifan, the Varsity Head Football Coach, has announced his retirement. His dedication and enthusiasm to the football program will be sorely missed. Firebird Nation wishes Coach Hanifan, a man who truly bleeds blue and gold, all the best in retirement. Going forward, the program will be in the capable hands of Mr. Eric Meisse ’06. Go Firebirds!

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The Girls Varsity Crew team may have been cold at practice on November 5, but the sunset did not disappoint. The team worked hard, trying to squeeze in the last few rows of the season. Here’s to a successful winter training and spring season!

The end of an era for the Moulder siblings... Tori ’16 and Colleen ’19 pose with their sister, Teresa ’22, after her last home volleyball game at the Bird’s Nest. Coach Cathy von Schoenermarck said, “For 14 years, the Moulder siblings have graced the court with their athleticism, poise, and leadership.” Part of Kellenberg’s volleyball legacy not pictured are Liz (Moulder) Knudsen ’09 and Billy Moulder ’12.

Firebird track alumni enjoyed catching up at a varsity football game at Mitchel Field on October 22. Left to right: Assistant coach Joe Moncada ’09, Andre Johnson ’10, former coach Bobby York ’01, Quesnel Senatus ’10, and Tony Jones.

F I R E B I R D C OAC H AWA R D S Congratulations to: Mrs. Cathy Von Schoenermarck, Girls Varsity Volleyball Coach, who was named Coach of the Year! & Kevin Drury ’13, Girls Varsity Swimming Coach, who was named Coach of the Year for two years in a row!

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HEART & MIND

S P O R TS

Athletic Letter of Intent Signing Award Winners Congratulations to the following athletes who achieved great success in their respective sports this past spring and fall seasons: Kathleen Healy ’22 won the NSCHSGAA Individual Cross Country Championship with a time of 16:44. Natalie Bottiglieri ’22 was named NFCA Third Team All-American, a first All-American in the softball team’s history! Teresa Moulder ’22 won the Girls Volleyball Championship Game MVP and NSCHSGAA Player of the Year and AVCA All-American. Teresa was also named to the First Team AllLong Island, only one of 12 players on the island to receive that honor.

Lily Anne Darcy ’23 finished 15th out of 35 in the State Swimming Championships. Christian Terranova ’22 was awarded the CHSFL Monsignor Peter’s Golden Eleven award.

On December 10th, Kellenberg Memorial held a ceremony for 15 athletes in the Class of 2022 who will be continuing their athletic careers in college. Front Row:

Jessica Lampasone Skylar Goodman Mikayla O’Brien Mia Devino Katherine Shammas Natalie Bottiglieri

Lacrosse Lacrosse Softball Lacrosse Lacrosse Softball

Towson University Fairleigh Dickinson University Georgian Court University University of Indianapolis Fairfield University Stonehill College

Back Row: Mr. John Fechtmann, Athletic Director

Kenneth Hirschfeld Adrian Nowak Steven Hardiman Caitlin Marten John Kwiatkowski Joseph Moran Brendan McCann Ryan Foley Thomas Nelan

Baseball Lacrosse Baseball Basketball Baseball Lacrosse Baseball Lacrosse Lacrosse

University of New Haven St. John’s University Bentley University East Stroudsberg University Manhattan College Wingate University Pace University University of Tampa St. Leo’s University

Mrs. Jennifer Strauss, NCAA College Coordinator Mrs. Jeanne Ceasar ’93, Assistant Athletic Director

Athletic League Honors Congratulations to the following athletes who were also awarded All-League Honors for the fall seasons:

GIRLS VARSITY SOFTBALL The 2021 Varsity Softball Team finished 2nd nationally for unweighted GPA last school year. This is the first time the team has ever earned team recognition for the GPA competition in NFCA. 14

HEART & MIND

Football - Devin Page ’23, Peter Von Schoenermarck ’22, Timothy McGrath ’22, Brendan Leahy ’22, Jaden Lyons ’22, Sean Cannon ’23, and Aidan Henry ’22. Girls Soccer - Katherine Shammas ’22, Carolina Benitez ’23, Olivia Rinaldi ’23, and Sofia De Vito ’23. Boys Soccer - Adrian Nowak ’22, Brady Schmidt ’24, and Gregory Kenney ’22 (All-State Honors as well). Tennis - Ava Finnegan ’23 and Anjali Edmonds ’24. Cross Country - Jeremy Martinez ’22, Kathleen Healy ’22, and Vincent Franco ’22. Girls Volleyball Teresa Moulder ’22, Alexandra Eakin ’23, Caitlin Monaghan ’22, and Alicia Caracciolo ’22. 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 P O R TS

CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS

GIRLS VARSITY VOLLEYBALL To cap off an undefeated season, the Girls Varsity Volleyball team beat Sacred Heart 5-4.

GIRLS JV BASKETBALL GIRLS VARSITY SWIMMING The Girls Varsity Swimming team completed their amazing season with a 4th place finish at championships.

GIRLS VARSITY BOWLING The Girls Varsity Bowling Team won their fifth straight NSCHSGAA Championship in February 2021. The team went a perfect 10-0 & has remained undefeated over the past few years.

GIRLS JV VOLLEYBALL

The Girls JV Volleyball team also ended with an undefeated season as they beat St. Anthony’s 2-0.

GIRLS JVA SOCCER With a real nail-biter of a game, Girls JV A Soccer beat St. Anthony’s 1-0 on a goal by Erin Occhino ’24 with 3 minutes left.

Newsday Fall & Winter Top Players Kudos to the nine athletes who were honored by Newsday: TENNIS AA Mia Devino ’22 FOOTBALL Rino Monteforte ’22 Ethan Greenwood ’22 SOCCER Lindsay McShea ’23 James Bayley ’22 VOLLEYBALL Teresa Moulder ’22 BASKETBALL Caitlin Marten ’22 James Cavallaro ’22 Greg Kenney ’22 K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

EYE ON THE LATIN SCHOOL 1

Top. The members of the Joseph C. Fox Latin School enjoyed WITNESS Day on October 7. This annual day of spirituality and fun included games, field activities, faith talks, and some friendly homeroom rivalry. An aerial shot of the members of Cadets, Tyros, and Squires enjoying WITNESS Day. 1. Tyros Zachary Stennett ’27, Nick Signora ’27, and Bryce Valls ’27 take a break from the festivities to smile for the camera. 2. Congratulations to Squire Matthew Ippolito ’26 (right) and Tyro Gabriel Garo ’27 (left) on placing first and second in the annual Latin School Spelling Bee on October 26! The students pose proudly with Mrs. Christine (Phillips) Agulles ’93, co-chairperson of the English department grades 6-9. 3. On October 12, the Latin School Cadets went on the annual Pilgrimage to Our Lady of the Island Shrine in Manorville, NY. The shrine, which is situated on one of the highest points on Long Island, was established by the Missionaries of the Company of Mary. The shrine represents the powerful renewal of the spirit of Christianity in the hearts of the faithful. Mass was celebrated outdoors at the Rock of Our Lady by Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02, where the Cadets gather for a group photo. 4. The annual Latin School Thanksgiving Food Drive, which took place from November 15 to 18, was the most successful in history with nearly 9,000 non-perishable food items being collected. The food was donated to those in need at St. Brigid’s Parish Outreach in Westbury. Assistant Principal for the Brother Joseph C. Fox Latin School Ms. Maria Korzekwinski noted in an interview with The Phoenix’s Grace Garcia ’23, “It is important for us to realize that what we have has been given to us by God. We, in return, need to pay it forward. If we have received blessings, it is up to us to decide how to use what we have to help those less fortunate.” Tyro Elena Michel ’27 carries food donations to be brought to St. Brigid’s. LS Food Drive. 5. Cadet Christian Morrissey ’28 is all smiles under his mask as he loads soup onto the bus. 6. The Latin School celebrated its annual Halloween Party outdoors on October 29. The creative costumes included full-body inflatables, bumblebees, Harry Potter, detectives, professional athletes, the Grinch, Disney characters, and lifeguards. A ghoulishly good time was had by all! Vincent Castrofilippo ’27, it was just another day at The Office dressed as Dwight Schrute. 7. Tyros Julia Anderson ’27, Isabella D’Agostino ’27, and Veronica Braut ’27 brought home the gold as Team USA. 16

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

FA L L H I G H L I G H TS

AT ST. M A RT I N D E P O R R E S M A R I A N I ST S C H O O L by Mrs. Erin (Toscano) Citrano ’03

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St. m a r t i n d e p o r r e s

1. Fifth-graders were all smiles during field games held on St. Martin’s Day on November 4. 2. St. Martin’s Class of 2018 graduates (and members of Kellenberg Memorial’s Class of 2022) Sebastian Arreaga-Cacao, Donevan Riley, Daniela Ramirez, and Chrystelle Senatus returned to their SMMS roots to help lead the sixth-grade retreat held at Kellenberg Memorial’s Stella Maris Retreat House in Islip, NY. Pictured with them are fifth-grade teacher Mr. Timothy Morris and middle school literature teacher Mrs. Christina (Bono) Crocitto ’02. 3. St. Martin’s is very proud to announce that we now have a cross country team for middle school boys and girls! Our runners worked hard and crossed the finish line of a great first season. 4. St. Martin’s very own Clipper the Dog helped our students get excited during our Fall Sports Pep Rally. 5. On November 9, we wished our eighth-grade girls soccer players well as they competed in their final home game on St. Martin’s own Stella Maris Field. 6. The eighth-grade students took a trip to Kellenberg Memorial’s brand new Jim & Diane Rowen STEM Center and had a great time conducting their experiments. 7. Chromebooks were recently rolled out to all students to use not only as a class resource but also to participate in the i-Ready assessment program. 8. Pre-K student Kaitlyn Barrera used autumn colors to create her leaf painting. 9. Fifth-graders learned about the lives of the saints and presented their new knowledge to the rest of our school. 10. In September, the fourth-graders traveled to Oyster Bay to sail aboard The Christeen, a New England oyster sloop built in 1883. They enjoyed learning all about the marine life of Oyster Bay Cove. 11. Eighth-grader Anthony Custodio-Pena portrayed St. Martin during the celebration of the school’s patron saint, St. Martin de Porres. HEART & MIND

A LU M N I

MEET THE 2021-2023 BOARD In 2014, Kellenberg Memorial established its first official Alumni Association Board, the mission of which is to provide opportunities for Firebird alumni to maintain contact with each other and the school. The officers of the board serve for two years. Please find to the right the members of the 20212023 Alumni Board. We thank them all for their continued support of Kellenberg Memorial.

Anthony Cantelmo ’97, P’24,’26 President Finance Director, American Express St. John’s University, Bachelor of Science in Finance. “Kellenberg Memorial is a place that shaped who I am today. It strengthened my faith and developed my morals and my values. It truly set me up for success in life, and I want to ensure that continues for future generations of Firebirds.”

Adam Rossol ’97 Complex Director in North American Excess Casualty Claims Group at AIG Boston University’s Questrom School of Management, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; St. John’s University School of Law, Juris Doctor degree. “I am honored to serve on the Alumni Board for Kellenberg Memorial. Attending Kellenberg is a special time in a student’s life to discover who they are, explore and strengthen their faith, make lasting friendships, and receive an excellent academic education in a supportive environment. I look back at my time at Kellenberg full of gratitude for what it gave to me and what I one day hope it will give to my son. I look forward to working with my fellow alumni to help the school continue to grow and fulfill its mission.”

Eileen (Owen) Henke ’98 Former media marketing professional, currently a homemaker Marist College, Bachelor in Science in Marketing. “It has been an honor to have been asked to join the Kellenberg Memorial Alumni Board. I am very proud to have attended a school where academic excellence and morality go hand-in-hand. I am impressed to see so many Kellenberg graduates who after college have returned to teach. Fond memories and strengthened faith gained while they were students draw them back and inspire them to pass the legacy on to others. My goal is to reunite alumni with each other in support of KMHS’s ever-growing community.”

Meredith (DePalma) Heine ’02 Independent Advanced Director at Pampered Chef University of Scranton, Bachelor of Science in Accounting. “Having an education rooted in our Catholic faith provided a solid foundation for me to carry throughout life, and despite all the challenges I’ve faced, my faith helped me realize that anything is possible with God by my side. I truly believe my experience at Kellenberg equipped me to make confident decisions in both my professional and personal life, and I’m excited to share how life beyond high school doesn’t come down to black and white decisions anymore because success can be found in many ways.”

ALUMNI HELPING HANDS On October 30, Firebird alumni came together for a day of service at Stella Maris Retreat House, Kellenberg Memorial’s home for day retreats for students in grades six through twelve located in Islip, NY. Spanning over five acres, the property is in constant need of beautification and maintenance. Alumni worked outside on landscaping and gardening projects, as well as cleaning and painting the inside of the house. Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. took part in the day’s activities and noted, “Because of the hard work of our alumni volunteers, we will be able to complete a full renovation of the bathroom in the house in time for winter retreats. I am so grateful for the generosity of time that our alumni shared for this inaugural ‘Helping Hands’ event.” Left to right, then from bottom to top of stairs: Mr. Kevin Hardy, Eddie Jordan ’13, Domenico Carroll ’18, Steven Reiser ’16, Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M., Anthony Cantelmo ’97, Saralee (Martelly) Good ’11, Amanda Green ’11, Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo ’11, Mr. Thomas Huggard, Mrs. Marcy (Fernandez) Fiore ’09, Jada Isaac-Thomas ’21, Kerry Skinner ’19, Diana Sayers ’20, Brianna Cespedes ’18, Jillian Iovine-Riccardo ’18, and Jaide Ednie ’21. 18

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Michael Warner ’04 Vice President of Global Executive Recruitment and Strategic Partnerships at MSCI, Inc. Baruch College, Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics. “My experience at Kellenberg is one that I will never forget. Kellenberg really provided an environment for each individual to develop and thrive in their chosen area of interest. I am honored to be in a position to contribute to the success of the school so that future generations will be able to experience the same life-changing high school experience that I did.”

Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo ’11 Occupational Therapist at Professional Physical Therapy Marist College, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology; New York University, Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. “From day one of Triple A, Kellenberg Memorial became my home. And from then it has provided me the tools to become a wellrounded and spiritually humbled individual, who I am proud of today. I chose to give back to Kellenberg because I want to continue the Firebird legacy so others can share in our faithful community.”

Michelle Mastricovo ’11 Registered Nurse The University of Tampa, Bachelor of Science in Nursing. “The education I received, friendships I built, and faith that I strengthened while in high school served as the perfect foundation for the start of my adulthood. I am truly grateful to Kellenberg which is why I am looking forward to giving back by serving on the alumni board and staying connected as a Forever Firebird.”

Eddie Jordan ’13 Director of Building and Grounds at St. Martin de Porres Marianist School Franklin Pierce University, Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. “Kellenberg Memorial has truly been a beautiful place to grow which has shaped me into the person I am today. From the supportive coaches to the diligent teachers, the Marianist Community continues to help all past and present students flourish in all aspects of life. My goal in being on the KMHS Alumni Board is to continue this precedent and help bring all Firebirds back to the Bird’s Nest!”

THANKSGIVING EVE MASS & BRUNCH

On November 24, over 500 Firebird alumni returned to the Bird’s Nest for Thanksgiving Eve Mass, followed by brunch. Since there were no classes for the day, faculty members were able to spend quality time with their former students. Tours of the new Jim & Diane Rowen STEM Center were given, and alumni learned about Kellenberg Memorial’s latest campus and curriculum enhancements. Above: Mass was concelebrated by Father Thomas Cardone, S.M., Father Albert Bertoni, S.M., and Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02, with Nicolas Castelli ’17 serving as acolyte. 1. Thomas McCartney ’20 enjoys catching up with Mr. Rich Marone ’91. 2. Emma Carmody ’21 and Matthew Duffy ’20 give the event a thumbs up. 3. Mrs. Penny Riiska spent some quality time with Bryce Blount ’21 and Terry Savaille ’21. 4. Mrs. Jen Strauss, Christie Anglade ’21, and Kendall Riley ’21 are all smiles with the Firebird. 5. Thomas Silecchia ’20 and Jake Metzner ’20 catch up while waiting for Mass to begin.

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REUNIONS This fall was busy for the Alumni Office as the school hosted special 25 and 30 year reunions for the classes of 1996 and 1991, as well as belated 25 and 30 year reunions for the classes of 1995 and 1990. The highlight of all four gatherings was a tour of the new Jim & Diane Rowen STEM Center. In addition to reconnecting with classmates and teachers, alumni enjoyed seeing how the campus has changed over the years. 1. 1990 Group Shot. 2. 1991 Group Shot. 3. Glenn O’Kane ’90 and Christopher Wilson ’90 enjoy catching up under the tent. 4. Mr. James Campbell ’91 receives communion from Fr. Albert Bertoni, S.M. as classmate Andrea (Licari) Petrosky ’91 prepares. 5. Paul Campbell ’90, who traveled all the way from California to attend the reunion, reconnects with Mrs. Ann Marie (Tolle) Reardon ’90 and Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. 6. Pamela (Rando) Maffettone ’90, Allison Pricci ’90, and James O’Rourke ’90 pose with the Firebird while touring the Jim & Diane Rowen STEM Center. 7. Mr. Rich Marone ’91 says hello to Jennifer Wasielesky ’91 and her husband, Michael. 8. Mr. Kevin Buckley and George Cannon, Jr. ’90 share a laugh. 9. Freddy Rivera ’91 and Christian Meserino ’91 take a break from chatting for a photo. 10. Andrea (Carty) Abrahams ’91 and Yesenia (Garcia) Plock ’91 say hello to Mr. Kevin A’Hearn.

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1. 1995 Group Shot. 2. 1996 Group Shot. 3. Faculty member and reunion committee member Mr. Juan Estrella ’95, Robert DeCillis ’95, and reunion committee members Gina (Manzo) Robalino ’95 and Christian Rocca ’95 with Brother Kenneth Hoagland, S.M. 4. Tarril Roberts-Lanzaga ’96 and Director of Alumni Mr. Thomas Huggard catch up. 5. Bryan Peranzo ’96, Brian Nevin ’96, Rosanna (Cracchiolo) Caruso ’96, and Josephine (Tuosto) Prestigiacomo ’96 have a blast catching up. 6. Kimberly Korduba-Hunter ’96 and Ann (Costello) Feyrer ’96 reminisce about their high school years. 7. Assistant Alumni Moderator Mr. Chris Alfalla ’94 and Brian Twomley ’96 share a laugh. 8. Matthew Casalinuovo ’95 and Natalie (Dyszler) Casalinuovo ’95 met as students and are now married “Forever Firebirds!” 9. Pamela (Crepeau) Gollin ’95 and Michael Zaccardi ’95 pose for a photo. 10. Laura (Ianucci) Connolly ’96, Varnell Bien-Aime ’96, and Cerria (Orientale) Torres ’96 are all smiles celebrating their 25 year reunion.

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FOREVER FIREBIRDS Lori (Sollitto) ’06 & Anthony Catanzano ’06 Lori & Anthony have been married for six years and currently reside in Durham, North Carolina, with their daughter, Jocelyn (3 1/2), and son, Leo (2). Anthony is an orthopaedic surgeon at Duke University, specializing in pediatric orthopaedics and scoliosis surgery. Lori is a registered nurse, who also spent time working within the orthopaedic surgery department as a nurse clinician. After spending five years in Durham, NC for Anthony’s residency training, they moved to San Diego, CA, to enjoy a year on the beach while he completed advanced fellowship training in orthopaedics. Since returning to North Carolina, they have continued their faith development and practice at Holy Infant Church in Durham.

When & how did you meet? We met a long, long time ago… in the eighth grade. After middle school, we both chose to attend Kellenberg for high school and rode the bus to school together every day (until we could drive)! We remained together through high school and beyond, developing friendships with our classmates that have lasted a lifetime. When & where were you married? We were married on May 30, 2015, at St. Frances de Chantal in Wantagh, NY. Eric Meisse ’06 served as the best man and Colleen (Sheridan) Meyers ’06 served as the maid of honor. Many other Firebirds stood by us that day, both on the altar AND the dance floor! 22

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What is one of the best lessons you each learned during your time at Kellenberg? Kellenberg taught us both so much, but one of the most important lessons we’ve kept to this day is the importance of community over self. In order to live fulfilling and happy lives, we’ve tried to always be active members of the communities around us. Whether it be where we live and work or our children’s schools and activities, we try to dedicate our time and efforts to help others, especially those who are in need. 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 & keep the promise of being “true to your spouse in good times & in bad, in sickness & in health?” Kellenberg’s commitment to faith development has been the cornerstone of our marriage. By building our faith at Kellenberg we learned the importance of trust and unconditional love. Whenever we are faced with challenges, we remember the love we have for one another and trust that we are always doing what is best for one another.

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come with a history. More and more, there are certainly many aspects in kids’ personal lives that impact who they are as students. The emotional piece is a very important part of the equation to consider. There are so many things to navigate beyond your subject matter with students today. There are a lot of challenges, so it’s important to work with parents in communion. Everything goes better when we’re working together.

A Few Minutes with

MRS. DIANE PAGE When & how did you end up teaching at Kellenberg? I taught in the Brooklyn Diocese before I got married and had my children. I took a break from teaching for several years to raise my family. I returned to the classroom in my children’s school, St. Raymond’s, in the Diocese of Rockville Centre for eight years before I moved over to Garden City Public Schools. I really missed the faith component when I was in the public school system. I knew Father Tom from when St. Raymond’s used to have retreats here at Kellenberg. So I sent him a letter saying how much I would love to teach here. My daughter (Tara ’10) was a student and I loved the school so much. I just felt very spiritually empty when I was teaching in Garden City. It was so difficult not being able to talk about God or faith. I was so happy when I was hired here for the 20092010 school year, and I’ve been happy ever since. I have remarked to Brother Kenneth that Kellenberg is the country club of teaching. I’ve taught in other places, so I can say quite confidently that this is a very special and beautiful place to be. What have you taught & moderated or coached during your time here? I’ve taught sixth-grade reading since I arrived. Additionally, I’ve taught seventh-grade English for five years and eighth-grade English for six years. I currently teach Reading 6 and English 7. I was an assistant moderator for Junior CROSS and Latin School CROSS for many years. I spearheaded the Latin School Academic Quiz Bowl, which I just handed K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

off to Miss Victoria LaMonica ’09 this year. This year, I am moderating Latin School GSO and a Sophomore Sodality. I started the Latin School Book Club, and I am continuing as an assistant moderator of Junior CROSS. I have been doing guidance for approximately ten years, as well as retreat work in the Latin School. What is your favorite thing about teaching at Kellenberg? The best part of my work is that I get to talk about God every single period of every single day! I feel that is the reason I came here. I like teaching English, but I love being involved with retreat work and the faith aspect of my job. The best thing about being here is that God is here in everything we do. Personally, I love that Mass is available to me here every day; it is a great gift! I really enjoy praying the rosary with students during midday prayer, which is a great grace. These opportunities help me to continually grow in my faith. I also love seeing how comfortable kids are expressing their faith here. You can be a student-athlete or a chess expert but also do the “God stuff.” You can do it all here! What is so unique about an education that impacts both the heart & the mind? I think the teachers here are tuned into the students as whole people. Of course, everyone wants to see positive performance in their subject area; everyone wants to see excellence. But we all know it is important not to lose sight of the fact that students come with a whole family behind them - they

What do you hope to instill in your students? I want them to know the most important thing is that they have a relationship with God. If they walk away knowing that, I truly believe everything else will fall into place. I just said to them today while we were discussing All Saints’ Day - be a lawyer, doctor, engineer, teacher, chef, dancer, professional athlete, be whatever you want - but use your gifts to be a saint first. If you don’t have God in your life, there will be an emptiness no matter how much success you experience. I always tell them, “God, people, then stuff. If you put God first, then the people in your life and finally, all the other things, life will flow better.” Your life should start and end with prayer. You need to have a relationship with Christ, and with Mary, too - she always points us to Christ. If they walk away saying they feel close to God, then I did the right thing. Teaching is vocational; it is a ministry. Teachers can have very positive impacts on their students’ lives. What does the phrase, “Firebird family,” mean to you? I would say we are a family here. The faculty and the staff are all working toward a common goal; we are all working to teach the faith. Everyone in this building is working in community to spread the faith. We have a common mission. People feel connected to each other here. I feel very connected to my colleagues, and I know I can rely on them. The Latin School is really a school within a school, and we all have different things we bring to the table. The younger faculty members bring amazing energy, expertise, and beauty to everything, and I bring some experience. Together, we really complement each other. The faculty strikes a great balance between maintaining tradition and exploring new horizons. Father Tom and Brother Ken always make a point of saying that we are lay Marianists working in communion with their order. There is a constant welcome and invitation to be part of the Marianist community. It is a great blessing to be here! HEART & MIND

CLASS NOTES

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1990

Daniel Hagerman recently got engaged and started a new job working for the federal government.

1991

Daneen Carroll currently serves as a program manager for IBM CIO in the Cybersecurity Resiliency Center (CRC). She holds a Master of Public Administration degree in international comparative studies, policy, and non-profit management from New York University and resides in Charlotte, NC. Daneen is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., has an amazing group of family and friends, and adores her baby niece, Isa (whom she loves to spoil endlessly). 1

Jared Santangelo retired from the NYPD in 2020 as a detective with 26 years of service. He moved to Summerville, SC in the summer of 2021.

1996

Timothy McCarthy is proud that his daughter, Keira, is a member of Kellenberg Memorial’s Class of 2025.

1997

Coleen (Quinn) Zabala, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and her husband, Marc, welcomed their fourth daughter, Madeline Jane, in October 2021. Big sisters Lily (10), Fiona (7), and Cora (4) are thrilled with the new addition! 2

1999

Stephanie (Larosiliere) Guthrie married her husband, Marlon, on August 5, 2021, at The Village Club at Lake Success in Great Neck, NY. Despite having to postpone multiple times due to COVID-19, Stephanie said, “It truly was the most perfect and magical day!” 3

2002

Sean Glander was promoted to the Vice President of Taxation and Accounting Processes at Big V Property Group in Florida, NY. Big V Property Group invests and manages commercial retail real estate for long-term wealth preservation and growth. 4 Danielle (Kovolisky) Sforza and her husband, Frank, took a leap of faith and became owners and operators of a snack route franchise, Ceasar Snacks Inc., that services western Nassau and Queens counties. The corporation was named after Danielle’s late grandfather who was the guiding force behind her attending Latin School and joining the Kellenberg family. They live in Massapequa Park and have three children: Frankie, Lia, and James.

2003

Phil Mauro was invested as a Knight of Magistral Grace in the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes, and of Malta at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, D.C. on October 19, 2021. 5

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2004

Shaun Moran, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Colleen, welcomed Emilia Therese to their family in October 2021. Emilia joins proud big siblings James (8), Elizabeth (7), John (5), and Emma (2). FF&C Kristina (Seligson) Zuvich and her husband, Ron, welcomed their second Future Firebird, Logan, in March 2021. Big sister Alexandra (2) is thrilled with the new addition to the family! Kristina is a seventh grade English teacher at Herricks Middle School and the family resides in Garden City, NY. FF&C

2005

William Earley became engaged to his fiancée, Taylor, in Belize in February 2020. They look forward to being married in October 2022. Mary Beth (Cotty) Farrell, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and her husband, Brian, welcomed their third child, Andrew Patrick, to the world in September 2021. Big siblings Christopher (4) and Lindsey (2) are thrilled with the new addition to the family! FF&C Cristina Hernandez, an emergency medicine physician in San Diego, CA, was married in 2021 and also welcomed her first child, Ellie. FF&C Pat Miles, faculty member and head coach of the Varsity Baseball team at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Lisa, welcomed their first baby, Ailís Thérèse, in June 2021. FF&C Conor O’Brien, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Jaclyn, welcomed their second child, Ryleigh Theresa, in August 2021. Big brother Carter (2) loves his new baby sister. FF&C

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2007

Christopher Lyons, a guidance counselor at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Megan, welcomed their second son, Brooks Michael, in September 2021. Big brother Bryce (17 months) is thrilled with the new addition! FF&C Lauren Rosato married her husband, Michael Woodrow, on June 3, 2021, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. James in Brooklyn, NY with friend and fellow Firebird, Elizabeth Seitz, serving as a bridesmaid. FF&C Elizabeth Seitz recently became engaged to be married to her fiancé, Craig. Elizabeth is an associate wealth manager/ fiduciary specialist at BNY Mellon. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Stony Brook University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of New Hampshire School of Law.

2008

Lt. Ryan Mahon, USN is stationed at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA, where he serves as an instructor pilot on the F/A-18 Super Hornet. He was pleased to meet up with USMMA’s Katie Sweeney ’18 in June 2021 for her first flight, which was officially named Kellenberg 11 in USN flight logs. 6 Mike Sorkin, a faculty member at Kellenberg Memorial, and his wife, Noelle, welcomed their first child, Michael Edward, in September 2021. FF&C

2009

Maggie Seitz married her husband, Danny Duenas, in November 2021. Maggie is director of sales at Helix Hospitality and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business management from Stony Brook University. Danny is project

lead/mechanical engineer at Hillrom and holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in biomedical engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology. Stephen Tomaselli married his wife, Alyssa, on September 20, 2021. Their nuptial Mass was celebrated by Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 at the Our Lady of Mercy Chapel at Salve Regina University, where the couple met as students. FF&C

2010

Dan Brandon and Johanna Sullivan ’11 became engaged in August 2021 while visiting Lake George, NY. 7

Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo, who is a member of Kellenberg Memorial’s Alumni Board, married her husband, Frank, on September 4, 2021, at St. Mary of the Isle Church in Long Beach, NY. The Nuptial Mass was celebrated by Father John Crozier. FF&C Emily (Law) Fontano married her husband, Robert, at St. Frances de Chantal RC Church in Wantagh, NY, on October 16, 2021. FF&C Becky (Furboter) Russello was married to her husband, Anthony, on Friday, April 23, 2021, at St. Catherine of Sienna Church in Franklin Square, NY... Class Notes continued on page 28

Lauren (O’Grady) and Owen Hammond ’14 were married on July 2, 2021, at Our Lady of Victory Church in Floral Park, NY. FF&C

Kathryn LeMonda is a practicing pediatric occupational therapist with dual specialization in pediatrics and neurorehabilitation. She recently earned her clinical doctorate, through which her research focused on the efficacy of alternative and complementary approaches to intensive training and rehabilitation amongst the pediatric neuromotor populations. Kathryn’s work with the Neurological and Physical Abilitation (NAPA) Center has afforded her the opportunity to travel throughout the US and internationally. She recently relocated to Australia, where she will serve as the Director of Rehabilitation for the newest NAPA Center clinic in Melbourne.

2011

Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo, Shannon O’Brien, Rebecca (Furboter) Russello, Michelle Mastricovo, Emily Hanifan, Maria Biondi, and Erin (Seiter) Carman gathered for a group photo at the wedding reception of Brittany (Woloszyn) Ball. FF&C

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FEATURED FIREBIRD Logan, son of Kristina (Seligson) ’04 and Ron Zuvich, with sister, Alexandra

FUTURE FIREBIRDS 1

Ellie, child of Cristina Hernandez ’05

Ailís Thérèse, child of Pat Miles ’05 and his wife, Lisa

Michael Edward, child of Mike Sorkin ’08 and his wife, Noelle

Ryleigh Theresa, child of Conor O’Brien ’05 and his wife, Jaclyn, with brother, Carter

Brooks Michael, son of Chris Lyons ’07, and his wife, Megan, with brother, Bryce

Emilia Therese, daughter of Shaun Moran ’04 and his wife, Colleen, with siblings James, Elizabeth, John, and Emma

Andrew Patrick, child of Mary Beth (Cotty) ’05 and Brian Farrell, with siblings, Christopher and Lindsey

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CELEBRATIONS

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Becky (Furboter) Russello ’11 was married. She is pictured with her 2011 classmates Emily Hanifan, Maria Bondi, Brittany (Woloszyn) Ball, Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo, and Catherine Masticovo.

Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo ’11 married her husband, Frank, celebrated by Fr. John Crozier ’11.

Lauren (Rosato) Woodrow ’07 with bridesmaid, Elizabeth Seitz ’07

Stephen Tomaselli ’09 married his wife, Alyssa. He is pictured with his father and Fr. Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02

Lauren (O’Grady) ’10 married Owen Hammond ’14

Kasey (Pote) Forte ’12 married her husband, Brendan

Amanda (Moncada) Gutierrez ’13 married her husband, Armando

Melissa Walsh ’13 married her husband, Peter

Niamh McLoughlin ’13 married Glenn Peters ’13

Emily (Law) Fontano ’11 married her husband, Robert

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10 Representing the class of 2011, Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo, Shannon O’Brien, Rebecca (Furboter) Russello, Michelle Mastricovo, Emily Hanifan, Maria Biondi, and Erin (Seiter) Carman at the wedding reception of Brittany (Woloszyn) Ball.

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CLASS NOTES

A reception followed at The Mansion at Oyster Bay. Although COVID-19 regulations kept the guest list to 150 people, Becky was thrilled to have her closest friends and fellow Firebird alumni at her side for her special day, including Emily Hanifan, Maria Bondi, Brittany (Woloszyn) Ball, Becky (Furboter) Russello, Alexia (Santiago) Giampaolo, and Catherine Mastricovo. FF&C

2012

Kasey (Pote) Forte married her husband, Brendan, in October 2021, at Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church in Deer Park, NY. The couple celebrated with their friends and family at a reception at Water’s Edge in Centerport, NY. Kasey was thrilled to have a number of Firebird friends as a part of her wedding: Lauren Talbot, Allison Morello, Kerrin Morello, Haviland Dunne, Casey Fitzgerald, Ryan Pfingst, and Amy Quinn ’13. FF&C

2013

Amanda Moncada married Armando Gutierrez on May 1, 2021. The couple met while doing mission work in Haiti with Family Missions Company and are expecting their first child at the end of January 2022. FF&C Glenn Peters and Niamh McLoughlin ’16 have dated since 2014 and became engaged in June 2019 in St. Mark’s Square in Venice, Italy. The couple was married at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Malverne, NY, on October 30, 2021. Glenn said, “The first thing we ever talked about was church history class. Without Kellenberg we would have never met.” FF&C Melissa Walsh married her boyfriend of six years, Peter, in June 2021. FF&C

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2014

Mary Grupp graduated from The George Washington University Law School with honors in May 2021. She began working at the New York City Law Department’s Tort Division in September 2021. Rose Haslbauer has been teaching freshmen and sophomore religion at Archbishop Molloy High School since January 2020. In September, she began teaching theology on the college level as an adjunct instructor at St. John’s University. Krista King (pictured with former coach Mr. Kenneth Conrade) was inducted into the NYS High School Softball Hall of Fame in Herkimer, NY, in June 2021. Krista is only the third Long Island CHSAA softball player to be inducted and first position player (non-pitcher). 8 Christian Pettinato graduated from The United States Army Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning in Georgia in September 2021 and will serve as an infantry officer in the New York Army National Guard. As a civilian, he is a project manager for Amazon in New York City while working on a Master of Science degree at American Military University.

2016

Danielle Santevecchi recently accepted a job offer to be a part of the opening team of the brand new Walt Disney World hotel, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, where guests will embark on a first-of-its-kind immersive Star Wars adventure.

2017

Gerard DeAngelis was one of 14 novices who received the habit of St. Dominic on August 7, 2021, at the vigil of the Solemnity of St. Dominic, at St. Gertrude Priory in Cincinnati, OH. As a friar in formation in the Order of Preachers, he has taken the name Brother Gerard Rosario. 9

2018

Paige Rieger is in her senior year at Florida Institute of Technology, where she is pursuing a double major in aeronautical science with flight and air traffic control and recently received her flight instructor certification. Paige is also president of her sorority, Alpha Phi. 10

2019

Mishelle (Mejia) Falcon, who is a member of the New York Army National Guard assigned to the 107th Military Police Company, received a promotion to the rank of specialist on August 6, 2021.

2020

Alexandra Goldsmith, a sophomore at Tufts University, organized a school supply drive in August 2021 to help Long Island children in need. Through the generosity of others, she was able to collect 2,000 school supply items to donate to St. Martin de Porres Marianist School.

2021

Caitlin Noonan, a firstyear student at The Cooper Union in New York City, won third place in the High Tech category of the Spellman High Voltage Electronics Clean Tech Competition, which is an international engineering and sustainability competition that received entries from 36 nations this year, in August 2021. Caitlin developed an open-source, sustainably designed, solarpowered swimming robot that can be used to forecast and monitor harmful algae blooms in Long Island waterways for public health benefit.

FF&C on pages 24-25

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KM HS ALUMNi at Sa lve Regina While on the Salve Regina University campus for the wedding of Stephen Tomaselli ’09, Father Daniel Griffin, S.M. ’02 was pleased to meet up with current Salve Regina students Brandon Farrell ’21 and CJ Peknic ’21, as well as Joseph Tallini ’19 and Matthew Moncada ’21.

Have you recently celebrated a milestone in your life, such as a college graduation, an engagement, a marriage, a new job, the expansion of your family, or a promotion?

Submit a

CLASS NOTE! Updates & photos (at their highest resolution) should be submitted to

ALUMNI@KELLENBERG.ORG.

Professional Directory

We are acutely aware that the repercussions of Covid-19 reach far & 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, & 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.

Kellenberg’s official LinkedIn group has over 1,600 members! There are always new job opportunities in a variety of fields being shared within the group. You may join the group by searching “Kellenberg official” on LinkedIn and clicking “Request to Join.” Please also consider asking other Firebirds in your network to join by clicking “Invite connections,” which appears to the right of the cover photo. Thank you for all that you do to continue to strengthen our Firebird Nation! K E L L E N B E RG .O RG

HEART & MIND

A LU M N I AT H L ET E S

Dylan Willis ’18 served as the sole student speaker at St. John’s University’s President’s Dinner, which is the institution’s largest scholarship fundraising event. An exemplary studentathlete at St. John’s, Dylan plays on the men’s lacrosse team. On the field, the midfielder has appeared in 26 career games and notched 19 points. In the classroom, Dylan is a three-time BIG EAST All-Academic Team honoree and a Chi Alpha Sigma National Honor Society inductee. Dylan is slated to graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in finance and has already secured a full-time job in the industry.

Chris Cappas ’17, who played college baseball at The University of Pittsburgh, stopped by Kellenberg Memorial in June 2021 to talk to all the pitchers at the baseball summer camp.

College Alumni Athlete Kudos! Teddy Healy ’21, a first-year goalkeeper at Plattsburgh State, was named SUNYAC’s Men’s Soccer Defensive Athlete of the Week for two consecutive weeks in October 2021. He finished the season on a five-game winning streak and recorded shutouts in three of his last four matches played to end the season.

Jason Diaz ’19 and Joe Durso ’21 continue to make the Firebird baseball program proud as they keep the tradition of excellence alive on the Red Storm baseball team at St. John’s University.

Elisabeth Casey ’20 was named Rookie of the Year for the St. John’s University Dance Team in August 2021.

Bridget Lapham ’18 and Clare Posillico ’18, a nursing major and an accounting major, respectively, and members of the cross country team at Fairleigh Dickinson University, led their team to victory in the over six-kilometer course at the twenty-team Mount St. Mary’s Collegiate Invitational in September 2021. Bridget finished third overall and Clare finished eighth, running as the top two girls for their team. On November 6, 2021, Bridget claimed the individual title and led the Devils to a third place overall finish at the ECAC Division III Championship. This was the college’s first female individual champion in this race. Bridget and Clare were teammates on Kellenberg Memorial’s 2016 and 2017 NSCHSGAA Championship teams. 30

HEART & MIND

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In Memoriam The Art of Writing, continued from Page 9

In The Writing Lab, we follow Hochman’s recommendations and begin by constructing sentences - what Hochman calls ‘the basic building blocks of writing.’ Then, as explained in her book, we make sentences more complex by incorporating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and appositives. Step by step, we teach the students how to enrich the sentence and have it carry more information. We dig so deeply into how to create meaningful sentences that by the end of the first trimester, our primary goal was simply to have students be able to outline and draft a single paragraph that featured a solid topic sentence, three or four worthwhile supporting details, and a clear, discernible concluding statement.” The Writing Lab at Kellenberg Memorial is the only class that does not use the iPad. As part of the “back to basics” approach of the class, it is important for the students to awaken their fine motor skills. Mrs. von Schoenermarck notes, “There is an almost imperceptible pause which takes place between the thought developing and the student writing it on the paper that is an important part of this process.” The class also employs an interdisciplinary approach, utilizing relevant lessons from history, science, or religion classes in writing drills in order to reinforce what students are learning in other subject areas. As the famous writer Flannery O’Connor once said, “I write to discover what I know.” While all enhancements across the curriculum are important, giving students the power to harness and express their ideas using the written word is paramount. Without the proper tools to think critically and craft coherent written ideas or responses, one’s ability to truly excel in other subject areas is hindered. The same is true for one’s ability to reach his or her full potential in a professional capacity on a chosen career path. By deconstructing the core elements of a simple sentence or paragraph and teaching students to build a linguistic expression one word or clause at a time, The Writing Lab is giving Firebird students their literary wings so that they can successfully fly anywhere their academic passions lead them.

Annual Report Update As many may know, the winter issue of Heart & Mind traditionally includes Kellenberg Memorial’s Annual Report detailing the philanthropic support from the previous fiscal year. The Shepherd’s Fund, Kellenberg Memorial’s annual, unrestricted fund, continues to experience healthy growth thanks to the generosity of dedicated benefactors. As a result, the expanded Annual Report will arrive as its own separate publication shortly. We are forever grateful to all those who support the Marianist education of the heart and mind with their time, talent, and treasure.

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The Kellenberg Memorial family extends its deepest sympathy to the loved ones of recently departed alumni & 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, & let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, & all the souls of the faithful departed, through Your mercy, rest in peace. Amen. Mary Andrews, mother of KMHS staff member Eileen Fechtmann, mother-in-law of KMHS staff member John Fechtmann, and grandmother of KMHS faculty member Kevin Fechtmann Kevin Caporaso ’99, son of Barbara Caporaso (Emmanuel Retreat House and the One Heart One Mind Benefit Office) Father Philip Eichner, S.M., President of Chaminade High School (1967-1992), President of Kellenberg Memorial High School (1987-2018), and Provincial of the Province of Meribah (1984-1992) Richard Frank Feminella, father of Richard C. Feminella ’92 and Catherine A. Feminella ’96 Donald Hartung, grandparent of Greta Hartung ’17, Ava Hartung ’21, and Eli Hartung ’24 Stephen J. Huggard, father of faculty member Tom Huggard and grandfather of Anne Marie Bernhart ’15, Elizabeth Huggard ’18, Megan Huggard ’19, Kelly Anne Huggard ’20, and Ella Huggard ’25 Andy Jones, KMHS maintenance Louise Jones, wife of James Jones, retired KMHS maintenance Kenneth V. Karchinski ’01, husband of Lori (Dengel) Karchinski ’02, brother of Pamela (Karchinski) Voelker ’05, and brother-in-law to Nancy (Dengel) Cipp ’95 and Stephen Dengel ’98 Neil McLaughlin ’92, brother of Kevin McLaughlin ’88, Thomas McLaughlin ’89, Jack McLaughlin St.A ’84, and Mary Gwen McLaughlin St.A ’83 (deceased), and uncle of Anna McLaughlin ’20 and Timothy McLaughlin ’23 Joseph Quinn, father of faculty member Coleen (Quinn) Zabala ’97, Moira (Quinn) Torres ’95, Brendan Quinn ’99, and Liam Quinn ’05 Joseph Ra, Sr., father of Joseph Ra ’00 Alred Reimer, father of KMHS staff member Marietta Tartamella and grandfather of KMHS athletic staff member Justin Tartamella Terence H. Reynolds, father-in-law of KMHS faculty member John McCutcheon and grandfather to Keely McCutcheon, SMMS faculty member Lauralyne Wells, mother of Kevin Wells-Hardy, KMHS maintenance Scott Werner, father of Jeanne Werner ’02 HEART & MIND

KELLENBERG MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL 1400 GLENN CURTISS BOULEVARD UNIONDALE, NY 11553 SMALL HEADING Change service requested

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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

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HEART & MIND

MONDAY, JUNE 6, 2022 ONE HEART ONE MIND BENEFIT OUTING FRIDAY, JUNE 10, 2022 KMHS ALUMNI REUNION CLASS OF ’12 - 10 YEAR REUNION CLASS OF ’17 - 5 YEAR REUNION SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2022 KMHS ALUMNI REUNION CLASS OF ’02 - 20 YEAR REUNION CLASS OF ’07 - 15 YEAR REUNION MORE INFORMATION & OTHER EVENTS AT

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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

Heart & Mind - Winter 2022

Articles inside

ALUMNI ATHLETE NEWS

CLASS NOTES

IN MEMORIAM

FACULTY INTERVIEW

COVER STORY

ST. MARTIN DE PORRES NEWS

CELEBRATIONS OF FAITH

SCHOOL NEWS FEED

ALUMNI BOARD

EYE ON THE LATIN SCHOOL

FOREVER FIREBIRDS

SPORTS