Logos 2018-2019 The Magazine of Northwest Catholic High School

THE MAGAZINE OF NORTHWEST CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

2 018-2019

The whole is more Than the sum of its PArts.

-Aristotle

LOGOS

The Magazine of Northwest Catholic

The Greek word λόγος or logos (pronounced lo-gaas) is defined as “word” or “meaning.” St. John’s Gospel opens: “In the beginning was Logos (the Word), and Logos was with God, and Logos was God.” The phrase “Word (Logos) of God,” found in John 1:1 and elsewhere, shows God’s desire and ability to “speak” to the human. The Dominican Sisters of St. Mary of the Springs (the founding Order of Northwest Catholic) have been noted for their ability to preach the word. The mission of the Dominicans is to provide intellectual formation, social communication, and service through word and action. Our publication, Logos, conveys our mission and values through this medium of the word.

Logos is published once a year by the Communications Department of Northwest Catholic High School.

Editor’s Letter What I love most about sports is not sweat or glory but its power to unite.

I watched from my living room as Nelson Mandela walked onto the rugby pitch in 1995 wearing a Springboks jersey after South Africa won the Rugby World Cup. Mandela bridged a chasm many thought beyond repair and drew together the fans of the historically white, Afrikaner sport and the millions of black and brown South Africans in his beloved nation. It was a historic and unforgettable moment, for the world and for me.

Sport levels barriers and heals divides. It unifies, restores, liberates, and transforms. It also teaches one of the most important lessons of life: the whole is more than the sum of its parts. When we come together, when we work toward a common goal, when we respect, trust, and support one another, we can accomplish great things.

Please enjoy this edition of Logos and its spotlight on Northwest Catholic’s outstanding athletics programs with a focus on teamwork. Discover how our life-changing athletics programs are not just a nice add-on: they are an integral part of a whole education.

Maureen C. Scudder Logos Editor

Please send comments or suggestions to: Maureen C. Scudder Northwest Catholic High School 29 Wampanoag Drive West Hartford, CT 06117 EDITOR

Maureen C. Scudder

2 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

PRESIDENT & HEAD OF SCHOOL

Christian J. Cashman

DESIGN

GO

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

860-236-4221 ext.113 mscudder@nwcath.org

Table of contents 16

KUDOS TO…

28

NEWS FROM WAMP

42

#GOODWORKS

48

IN THE ARTS

54

ATHLETICS

68

ALUMNI NEWS

82

ADVANCEMENT NEWS

96

IN MEMORIAM

99

THE 1961 SOCIETY

“The whole is more than the sum of its parts.”

– Aristotle

We value

LEADERSHIP & SERVICE

FAITH Respect

Diverse Community

EDUCATION OF THE WHOLE PERSON

We are a diverse, Catholic, co-ed, college preparatory community.

We educate the whole person mind, body, spirit, and imagination.

We develop leaders who faithfully serve God and others.

Our graduates are compassionate leaders

whole people Spiritually aware community focused

intellectually curious

Letter from President & Head of School Dear Friends, At Northwest Catholic, we stand on the shoulders of giants. This image crystallizes in our minds when we speak of our Athletic Hall of Famers, Northwest Catholic legends, whose names fill the plaques and trophy cases that line our athletics hallway. They teach us our history and motivate us to be our best selves, to be whole persons.

In this issue of Logos, you will find a celebration of the rich history of athletics at NWC. You will also find confirmation of what we, at Northwest Catholic, know to be true — the whole is more than the sum of its parts.

Athletics at Northwest Catholic is the place where community comes first and teams become family.

At Northwest Catholic we understand that athletics is the second classroom and an integral part of a complete education. Over 80% of our students play at least one sport at NWC, and most of the remaining students pursue their athletic passions outside of school, whether that be figure skating, squash, fencing, ballet, and more. Educating the whole person — mind, body, spirit, and imagination — means we value the student-athlete experience and its ability to form our students for a life well lived.

Northwest Catholic’s complete education, which occurs on the fields, on the courts, in the pool, on the ice, and on the track is also where we learn to take care of our whole selves. We build the NWC brotherhood and sisterhood in every season. The spiritual practice of sports, an element that is often overlooked, not only reminds but demands we look out for each other at all times.

Thank you for joining in our celebration of athletics at Northwest Catholic and for the support you provide to our vital Catholic mission.

With a grateful heart,

Christian J. Cashman President & Head of School

In lumine tuo videbimus lumen – In Your light we shall see light.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 5

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feature story The mission of NWC is to educate the whole person, mind, body, spirit, and imagination.Â

Playing our part & living our mission

by Ashley Mara ’08, NWC Athletic Director

At Northwest Catholic we talk about how every person has his or her unique, God-given gifts. Sports give people a chance to put

these gifts to use. When everyone gives to the team what he or she has to offer, the whole that is created becomes an almost indescribable experience.

This coming together of gifts to make the whole shapes not only the athlete, but the spectators, the opponents, the coaches, and the entire school community as well.

We enjoy few opportunities in this hectic world to watch a whole unit comprised of different athletes’ individual talents work in harmony to make something new, something better, something stronger.

Where else can you see what everyone has to offer laid out self lessly and courageously and, consequently, see what the whole is then capable of?

In Sports

Not only does each athlete have his or her unique qualities to share, but each sport has its uniqueness as well. Not all sports offer the same experience. From football to golf, horseback riding to swimming, ice skating to soccer, all sports add to the playbook that pulls together individual talents.

Individual talents work in harmony to make something new, something better, something stronger.

With sports there is something for everyone. And when we find our sport, we leave a mark on the sport and the sport leaves a mark on us. The participants take with them lessons they learned, scars they acquired, records they may have broken, and always shared memories. Some take these powerful experiences and use them to teach the younger generations how to capitalize on their gifts. Others may write about their life-changing experiences or share them with audiences.

Generation after generation carry their traditions and pass them on to the next.

When a community bands together and supports something bigger than themselves, great things happen. Miracles can, and have, happened.

Sporting events create community. They bring together families, friends, colleagues, fellow fans, and even rivals. These communities pitch in, pick each other up, stand up for the greater good, and give back. The positive energy generated by sports events has the ability to heal and inspire and transform.

Some sports provide opportunities to create life-long relationships, offer structure that teaches life skills, and create possibilities to work with others from all walks of life and with a range of abilities. These opportunities leave their marks, both big and small, in a person's life.

In sports at Northwest we see our school mission lived every day. Our teams give our studentathletes a chance to live our mission. Some of the students realize it during their time in high school, others don’t truly understand it until later in life. When our football stadium at full capacity turns and waves for a video to send to a children's hospital, our mission is lived.

When we dedicate a volleyball game to cancer survivors, our mission is lived. When our events raise money for our veterans, our mission is lived. All these efforts come together to celebrate how special life is and the value of a strong community. This is the beauty of sports.

When all the parts come together to make a whole, the possibilities are endless.

The mission of NWC is to educate the whole person, mind, body, spirit, and imagination.

Through sports we highlight our student-athletes’ gifts in all these ways. Our athletes have an opportunity to grow through adversity, preparation, leadership, and, perhaps most important, teamwork, and these experiences guide them through their entire lives.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 7

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Less ME, more WE

by Michael Lenz ’91 NWC Head Football Coach

“Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.”

– Vince Lombardi

Teamwork simply stated is less me and more we.

When I returned to Northwest Catholic a little over a year ago to take the position of Head Football Coach, I spent a lot of time thinking about my own experiences over the years as both a player and a coach. The more I thought about it, the more I realized how deeply I had been affected by so many people – from former coaches like John Shukie and Ron Swanson, to the guys I coached with like Mike Tyler ’73 and Thanh Truong ’92 to the players I was blessed to coach like Kevin Egan ’08, Pete Andruszkiewicz ’06, and many more. Through my experiences with these men, I arrived at what I consider to be the pillars of the Northwest Way as it applies to football.

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T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

Family, Trust, Hard Work, and Fun Through these four pillars run the essential lesson that football teaches — a committed group can accomplish much more than its individuals can.

FAMILY

TRUST

HARD WORK

Fun

Through good and bad, families stick together, and in football specifically, the family members have each other’s backs. That means the players are looking out for each other on the field, in the classroom, and everywhere else. This sense of family extends beyond the players’ four years at Northwest Catholic. Football players forge a brotherhood, and they support one another as they move through life. Many players return to NWC throughout their lives for advice and support. They also often return to give back to the current crop of football players as coaches and mentors, sharing their pride in the football community.

The NWC football family shares a lot of love for the program, the school, and one another.

There is no way to be successful in football unless all players are on the same page on every play. There are many great sports, but football is singular in that if just one player out of the eleven is out of position, the team breaks down and cannot be successful. In order to achieve this synchronicity, players must be diligent in learning their assignments.

More important, the players must be committed to building trust. Players must learn to trust one another – a trust that has to be earned. When players show up on time, know their assignments, and try their hardest, other teammates know they can trust that individual. Sometimes if things are not going well in a game, players can start to try to do too much and lose faith in their teammates.

The great teams, however, have built trust amongst their teammates.

There is no way around it – football is a challenging and demanding sport.

Players are expected to commit time to lifting and conditioning year round.

In season, players spend countless hours practicing, lifting, watching film, and even doing Sunday yoga.

Players bond through their shared hardships and build community through their work. Some of my favorite comments I hear from past players is “remember that time we did 100 up-downs,” or “remember when we ran Green Bays.”

The comments are said with a mix of pride and humor. The players have lived it together and have spent a lot of time commiserating, discussing, and joking about the hard work they have put in. The beautiful part is that the players are only able to work so hard and overcome so many obstacles because they are in it together.

Along with their commitment to one another and hard work comes an awful lot of fun! Whether it is re-watching a funny clip during film breakdown, shared team jokes between players and coaches, the annual foliage stroll, or the weekly pasta dinners, players love their time together and many remember it fondly as some of the best times in their lives. The ultimate fun, however, involves strapping on the pads and heading out as a team to play a game on a Friday night. The game nights are intense and enthusiastic – a weekly test to see if all the hard work and effort will pay off with a victory. More often than not, the coaches remind the players to stick together no matter how things go and that is what NWC football is really about. We are a family working together to support each other and to push each other to greater heights than we could ever achieve alone.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 9

03

feature story

Coming Together for the Real Win Alums talk about the power of teamwork and how community helps athletes reach new heights.

Michael Tyler ’73

The power of teamwork is unlimited.

The power of teamwork is unlimited.

We are all involved in teamwork — with family, school, work, sports, clubs, and more. The acronym TEAM, Together Everyone Achieves More, is true. Without teamwork there is chaos, and nothing of true value can be accomplished. The power of teamwork and why it is so important has many aspects so I will share just a couple of short thoughts based on my life experiences of teamwork with family, sports, and work.

Teamwork matters because we don’t live in a bubble. We need each other to survive and, better yet, thrive. Positive teamwork is for the greater good of all involved. I grew up in a family of 10 kids where teamwork was a must. We all had chores and responsibilities that had to be done, and done correctly. We worked together and took responsibility for our own chores and prided ourselves on doing things correctly. Cooperation with each other was a must, and we learned to help each other out when needed. Because we felt we were the “Tyler Team,” we looked out for each other and called each other out if there was a problem. It was important to uphold the family name in a positive light. “We” was more important than “I,” and as always, is exhibited in successful teamwork.

As the head football coach at NWC for 15 years, teamwork was THE most important aspect of our success. Success for our team was seen not just on the field. Our players were taught responsibility and accountability for themselves and each other — yes, teamwork.

All players were clear that they represented themselves, their families, and their school. They learned that the decisions they made on and off the field affected more than themselves. Our motto was “Northwest Pride” and we meant it! Our team was represented not just on the field

but in our hallways, classrooms, and out in public as well. Our goal was to create pride, greatness, and gratitude in all that we did. Our players knew that how they acted and how they carried themselves is what mattered. Teamwork was the essence of our success.

Lastly, I work with the school counseling office at NWC, and we represent the epitome of teamwork – that is relationship. We really care about the well being of each other and all involved at NWC. There is mutual respect and complete support for each other and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done correctly. We challenge each other, respectfully, and do so without judgement or condemnation. We are open and honest with each other and embrace our idiosyncrasies. We laugh and have fun as we work hard at our trade. And we are committed to making NWC be the best school anywhere. This is true teamwork in action.

Michael Tyler ’73: is a licensed clinical social worker and the NWC counseling office liaison for students with special needs. He was the former head football coach from 2000–2015. Michael played football and basketball at Northwest and was a two-time All-State football player as well as an All-American his senior year. After playing football at Syracuse University and Boston College, he went on to coach football at Southern CT State University. He earned his Master’s degree in Social Work from UConn and became a licensed clinical social worker in 1994. As the NWC head football coach, his teams won over 100 games and his players went on to play at schools such as Notre Dame, Syracuse, Boston College, and Yale. He has four children who graduated from NWC, Nathan ’08, Lucas ’10, Jessica ’12, and Owen ’15.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 11

Stephanie Simpson ’02

Ana Cecilia Cantú Félix ’04

I feel more confident, empowered, balanced, present, and connected to those around me.

Renowned yoga teacher B.K.S Iyengar said, “The rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.” I have been fortunate enough throughout my life to engage in practices that have afforded me the opportunity to dive deeper into the mind, body, spirit connection. Being a dancer, I have always been attuned to the messages my body holds. Dance has provided some of my most joyous memories, has brought me to exciting places, physically and emotionally, and has been the catalyst for some of my closest relationships. Dance taught me to be curious, to look at things in a new way, and has been a form of expression, self-care, and connection.

About 10 years ago, my spiritual journey brought me to yoga.

I wasn’t particularly open to yoga at first, but once I allowed myself to lead with curiosity, I found that yoga provided a new way for me to go inward and connect with myself and with others more deeply. The yoga community became a place where I felt supported to be my authentic self. It reminded me that life is a journey; it’s about honoring where I am in each moment and being present.

Years later I needed to make another shift in my life. In 2017 I decided to run the NYC Marathon. I hadn’t played sports since high school and never considered myself a runner, but I decided to take a huge leap outside my comfort zone and commit in a way I had never done before. Running has changed my life. I found that the biggest hurdle I had to overcome was my mind. I had told myself for so long that I wasn’t a runner.

I turned to my sport psychology research and mindset practice to support me. I created a mental training practice to go along with my physical training practice. Most importantly, I reached out for help. Though running can seem like a solo activity, the running community is actually extremely powerful. I would not have been able to finish the NYC Marathon successfully without their support.

As I train for my second NYC Marathon in November 2019, I am reminded of how my mind, body, spirit practices continue to inform one another. Dance, yoga, and running have changed the way I approach all areas of my life.

Stephanie Simpson ’02: is an artist, educator, and coach. Drawing on her background in movement, meditation, and psychology, she guides people to achieve their greatest potential by nurturing the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. An RYT-200 Hour Certified Yoga Instructor, Stephanie holds a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies from Emerson College, an MFA in Dance Performance/Choreography from Smith College, and an MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Spirituality, Mind, Body and a focus in Organizational Change from Columbia University, Teachers College.

12 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

I learned to manage different personalities and different approaches and made them work well together as a community of skaters.

I remember I would get most of my homework done during free periods so I could spend my after-school time doing what I loved. I remember choosing a skating lesson over a party. I had to juggle school, training, and eventually coaching. I also had to learn to be tough and look at setbacks as opportunities of growth. For instance, I was told I would never amount to anything significant in figure skating. Instead of letting the words of an Olympic coach get me down, I proved him wrong. I became the first Mexican skater to ever make the final round at a World Figure Skating Championship.

Not long after, I skated with and coached a synchronized skating team where I think I learned the most valuable lesson that’s helped me in my career: I learned to manage different personalities and different approaches and made them work well together as a community of skaters.

As a coach I have been able to share not only my knowledge of the sport, but also my passion and my anecdotes in hopes of inspiring others to become passionate about what they love and be the best they can be, on and off the ice. Some months ago, while many of my skaters were struggling to train for the Mexican National Championships, I signed up as an Adult Master Elite competitor so I could train with them and push them from the inside. I found that leading by example is the best teacher. I competed at Nationals, showed my skaters to leave everything they feel, their love for skating, where and when it matters — a life lesson for success.

My life has become what it is thanks to the institutions that have supported an integrated, whole education, including physical education and sports, which enhances the many other traditional areas of schooling.

I am grateful that faith brought me to Northwest Catholic as an exchange student where I was supported and where I could follow my crazy dream of representing my country and become someone who mattered in my sport.

Ana Cecilia Cantú Félix ’04: is a World and International Coach for singles and synchronized skating. She has coached several skaters who have represented Mexico, and she created the first Mexican Synchronized Skating team, which has competed in four World Synchronized Skating Championships. As a skater, Ana competed in one Junior World Championship, four Senior World Championships, and four Synchronized Skating Championships.

She became the first Mexican skater to ever make the final round at Worlds in Los Angeles in 2009. Her goals as a coach have always included helping athletes to achieve their personal goals in a healthy and positive environment and create the best training center in Mexico with high level competitors.

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Chris Prescott ’08

Liza Oakley ’14

The proverb “it takes a village” is my mantra.

My mission is to promote, grow, and elevate the game of basketball throughout Connecticut. My company Impact Training Programs is designed to provide resources for student-athletes to achieve at their highest level possible. We aim to provide fun, unique, and innovative youth programs to the community that provide access and opportunity for student-athletes to improve their fundamentals, on and off the court. Our development models include tools, resources, and experiences that focus on the health and well-being of the youth and families in our community. The desire is to enhance participation, development, and the enjoyment of the sport. Ultimately, we aim to create positive experiences and encourage continued participation as players, coaches, trainers, mentors, referees, and fans of the game of basketball.

For my company to succeed, or any team, building community is essential. My success is the product of a foundation of many coaches, mentors, camps, leagues, and community programs I participated in. These special people and experiences played a huge part in my development on and off the court. We need the support of a community.

Young athletes can achieve greatness by having resources to help them become the best people they can be. It’s hard to make an impact alone, but together anything is possible.

Chris Prescott ’08: is a basketball skills development trainer and a professional basketball player, mentor, coach, and community leader.

From Bloomfield, CT, Chris started his career at Northwest Catholic before playing for St. Joseph’s University. After graduating college in 2013, Chris recognized that the opportunities of aspiring athletes in Connecticut to continue their careers at the next level seemed slim. Chris is driven to increase the opportunities for aspiring athletes of all levels. He has played professionally for the national team of Panama and in other countries as well. Chris’s story serves as the ultimate reminder for work ethic, faith, and the consistency student-athletes require to attain greatness.

It’s cliché — there’s no “I” in team — but it has proven true every time I’ve taken the field.

For as long as I can remember sports have been a part of my life. Whether it was soccer, swimming, basketball, softball, or, my first love, lacrosse, I have always been drawn towards sports. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of multiple championship teams and lucky enough to feel the sting of a losing season. From all my experiences from youth, high school, collegiate, and now coaching sports, I have learned that talent, even a group of phenomenal athletes, couldn’t guarantee a winning season. However, a dedicated group of individuals with a common goal, committed to hard work and holding each other accountable, could. It’s cliché — there’s no “I” in team — but it has proven true every time I’ve taken the field.

To truly be part of a team, everyone has to realize they are part of something bigger than themselves, and accept that they have a specific role to play. If individuals can buy into this foundational truth, and give themselves fully to the common goal, big things can happen. Everyone has a part to play. Your role could be a starting player or the player that never gives up or the player that always wants one more try at practice or the “go-to” player at the end of the game or the positive voice from the sideline that never letsa teammate hang her head after a tough play.

The best teams I’ve played on became a family. Every minute of practice, every team meeting, every bus ride, if we gave ourselves to the same goal, we realized we were never alone. We knew someone would be there to celebrate our success, to pick us up when we fell. We felt joy when our teammates succeeded and became their best selves.

There’s no doubt winning a championship feels special, but it’s not what defines success. Inevitably the final whistle will blow, the scoreboard will tell you who won that game on that day, but it won’t answer the question of whether or not you were the best version of yourself. What I know to be true is that when a group comes together, each player understanding she is part of something bigger than herself, success will not be defined by a single shot, missed or made, or a game won or lost. Being part of team that is working toward the same goal will always be successful and unstoppable.

Liza Oakley ’14: played on NWC’s girls soccer and lacrosse state championship teams. She attended Mount St. Mary's University where she earned a BA in Business Finance. At the Mount she was a member of the DI women's lacrosse team. During her senior year, she helped lead the third-best scoring defense in the NCAA. She was named Northeast Conference All-Academic each of her four seasons. Liza is currently pursing an MBA at the University of Lynchburg where she is also the assistant coach for the DIII women's lacrosse program.

She believes that all her achievements would not have been possible without the help and influences of her family, friends, coaches, and teachers. They helped her understand what it means to set goals, work hard, and be humble.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 13

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Sports are the foundation

“NWC Athletics was my first and most memorable introduction to the NWC community. The life-long lessons learned and family gained through sports continue to impact every aspect of my life today.”

– Brendan Jasper ’08, football, track & field

" When a fellow athlete was injured and returned to practice on crutches feeling pretty low, the entire team, unprompted, gathered around her, formed a circle, joined hands, and started praying for her. This is how athletics and a faith community come together to do amazing things.”

– Ashley Mara ’08, field hockey, lacrosse

"Playing sports at Northwest gave me an opportunity to forge great friendships and instilled in me life-long lessons about teamwork, resilience, and decision-making. My greatest memories of Northwest are from the practice and playing fields."

~John B. Shukie ’95, football, baseball

14 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

“It was a privilege and honor to be part of the basketball teams at Northwest. There was an attitude instilled, a sense of pride.

I remember, at the end of every practice, we would gather at center court and shout, ‘We’re the Best, We’re Northwest!’ So true.”

– Bill Egan ’76, basketball

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

“My athletic experience at Northwest Catholic created life-long friendships and memories that have carried far beyond the football field or basketball court.”

~Nathan Tyler ’08, football, basketball

“Playing sports at Northwest Catholic taught me about camaraderie, compassion, loyalty, and family. Many of my favorite memories from high school took place at a practice or game, and almost all of them feature my teammates who remain some of my closest friends."

~Nora Regan ’08, field hockey, swimming & diving, lacrosse

“Northwest Catholic Athletics taught me that although the odds may not be in your favor, character comes when we work through adversity.”

~Claire Carew ’19, soccer, lacrosse

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 15

KUDOS TO...

Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.

– Seneca

KUDOS TO...  Seniors Megan Ferreira ’19

and Mary Velazquez ’19 were honored at the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) High School Outstanding Arts Awards Banquet.

Students Recognized at CAS Outstanding Arts Awards Banquet

 Michael Foster ’19 and Meghan O’Shea ’19

The CAS Outstanding Arts Awards Banquet annually recognizes two seniors in each member high school for their outstanding ability in the performing or visual arts. The banquet, with over 1,300 in attendance, was emceed by Tim Lammers of Fox 61. Author and columnist Dr. Gina Barreca delivered the keynote. Northwest Catholic’s Megan Ferreira ’19 and Mary Velazquez ’19 were among this year’s talented group of artists.

2019 National Merit Finalists

were named National Merit Finalists.

 Michael Baldini ’19,

Luke Connal ’19, President Christian Cashman, Matthew Villani ’19, and William Robinson ’19 in the President’s Office after learning they were named Commended Students.

Last September, the National Merit Scholarship Program named Michael Foster ’19 and Meghan O'Shea ’19 National Merit Finalists.

This spring the National Merit Scholarship Program announced that Foster and O’Shea were Finalists and among the college-bound students who would receive a portion of its $31 million scholarship fund, money provided by hundreds of businesses and universities who share NMSC’s goals of recognizing the nation’s most academically accomplished.

2019 Commended Students Michael Baldini ’19 and William Robinson ’19, both of West Hartford, and Luke Connal ’19 and Matthew Villani ’19, both of Avon, were recognized as Commended Students by the 2019 National Merit Scholarship Corporation. These seniors were among the top five percent of more than 1.6 million students who entered the 2019 competition by taking the 2017 PSAT/NMSQT.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 17

KUDOS TO…

2019 Superintendent’s Summa Scholars Eight outstanding seniors students recognized for their superior academic achievement were named 2019 Summa Scholars by Dr. Michael S. Griffin, Superintendent. During a special ceremony in May each Summa Scholar named a teacher from a Catholic elementary or secondary school who had been influential in his or her education. The Summa Scholars received bronze medallions engraved with their names, the crest of the Archdiocese, and a prayer: "May you find truth through faith, knowledge, and wisdom.”

2019 Superintendent's Summa Scholars and their honored teachers.

Sophia Argay of Avon (Hamilton College) honored Deborah Metzler, NWC math teacher.

“Mrs. Metzler’s dedication to her students is incredible, especially when she holds Calculus Club every Friday morning at 6:30am to answer all of our questions.

I am forever grateful for Mrs. Metzler’s unwavering support and belief in all of her students, and in me.”

—Sophia Argay ’19

18 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

Luke Connal of Avon (Georgetown University) honored Paul Fitzpatrick, NWC Social Studies Department Chair.

Michael Foster of Wethersfield (Fordham University) honored Joan Keating-McKeon, NWC English Department Chair.

“Thank you, Mr. Fitzpatrick, for “Ms. Keating-McKeon is famous encouraging me to be the best among students for being an student I could be, and helping me extraordinarily difficult teacher. get into this position as a Summa She refuses to insult her students Scholar today. Over the past four with low expectations. It’s clear years you have had such a positive that she deeply cares about her impact on me both academically students because she constantly and personally, and I am sad pushes them to improve.” to leave room 301 behind.”

—Michael Foster ’19 —Luke Connal ’19

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Hope Moustakakis of West Hartford (Rice University) honored Daniel Luddy '03, NWC Director of Instrumental Music.

“Mr. Luddy has supported me when I have succeeded and helped me when I have failed. The opportunity to participate in music was given to me by my parents and by my school, but Mr.Luddy was the one who made it a privilege.”

—Hope Moustakakis ’19

KUDOS TO…

2019 Valedictorian Michael Stamm ’19 During his years at Northwest Catholic, Stamm achieved First Honors every semester. He was designated an AP Scholar with Distinction and a Governor’s Scholar Semi-Finalist. Stamm was a member of National Honor Society, Class Vice President, Principle Chair in Wind Ensemble, and Captain of Cross Country.

At the school’s Annual Academic & Service Awards, Stamm was honored with the HILL Award (Honors Institute for Leadership and Life), Honors Latin IV Award, AP Computer Science Award, Excellence in Instrumental Music, CIAC Scholar Athlete Award, and as a Superintendent Summa Scholar.

Michael Stamm is currently pursuing a degree in chemical engineering at Northeastern University.

Joseph DeVito of Enfield (University of Connecticut) honored Kristina Gillespie, NWC Director of Campus Ministry and Spanish teacher.

Michael Stamm of Newington (Northeastern University) honored Fran Laffin, NWC religion teacher and advancement officer.

“Mrs. Gillespie is unlike any other teacher I have ever had. She is an extremely strong, compassionate, and attentive leader who strives every day to share the love of Christ with everyone.”

“Mr. Laffin brings class discussions back to the practical and encourages students to walk the talk. He truly has a passion for helping others grow, and I hope I can emulate this same trait in the future.”

—Joseph DeVito ’19

—Michael Stamm ’19

Matthew Villani of Avon (Northeastern University) honored Sara Avery, NWC Performing Arts Department Chair and English teacher.

“Mrs. Avery is more than just a teacher: she is a mentor, a role model, and the queen of performing arts. She is a powerful educator, with a strong mission, preparing students through literature, writing lessons, and theater, for the world outside of high school.”

“I am thankful for my experiences at Northwest and for all the people who helped me along the way.

Through opportunities in music, athletics, the classroom, and service, Northwest Catholic has helped shape me into the person I am today.”

Meghan O’Shea of West Hartford (Bryn Mawr College) honored Deborah Metzler, NWC math teacher.

“By pushing us, Mrs. Metzler made certain we all achieved our potential. She never gave up on us because she knew we were capable of so much. For me, in particular, she made sure I never felt out of place, and she is the reason I have come to love math.”

—Meghan O’Shea ’19

—Matthew Villani ’19

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 19

KUDOS TO…

2019 Academic & Service Awards Every year the Northwest Catholic community gathers to celebrate students who have excelled in academics and service.

This spring more than 80 students were honored. This year new "NWC Awards of Distinction" were added to the program.

Dominican Sisters Faith and Character Award Sheena Wolliston ’19

In the spirit of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, who were present at the founding of Northwest Catholic, the recipient of this award had an exemplary discipline record, was actively involved in extracurricular programs, and exemplified the five values of Northwest Catholic — faith, respect, diverse community, leadership and service, and education of the whole person. Sheena Wolliston was an outstanding representative of NWC at school and in the community. She had a strong academic record, a responsible faith life, and excellent rapport with staff and students.

Father Frascadore Award Tyler Esposito ’19

This award was named after past Northwest Catholic President Father Henry C. Frascadore. It was bestowed upon Tyler Esposito who best exemplified the characteristics of our graduate profile: intellectual curiosity, spiritual awareness, compassionate leadership, community focus, and is a whole person, in mind, body, spirit, and imagination.

Fr. Bradford Colton Faculty Honor Award Elizabeth Vandal ’19

This award was presented in honor of our founding principal Fr. Colton.

Libby Vandal earned the admiration and respect of the faculty for her contribution to Northwest Catholic. The faculty, staff, and administration recognize this student for hard work both in and out of the classroom, dedication to scholarship and intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to the betterment of self, peers, and school.

2019 Salutatorian Matthew Villani ’19 During his time at NWC, Matthew Villani was named a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student, LEADS Ambassador, a member of National Honor Society, and played a lead role in several school productions, including The Little Mermaid, Into the Woods, and Godspell.

Matthew Villani is currently studying mechanical engineering and physics at Northeastern University.

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T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

“At Northwest, I found what I loved, I found my people, and I found where I belong. ”

Welcome

ENGLISH

President Christian Cashman welcomes the audience.

English Department Chair Joan Keating McKeon presents the Senior English Award to Hope Moustakakis ’19.

WORLD LANGUAGES

MATH

World Languages Department Chair Ana Barrett presents The Connecticut Council of Language Teacher Award for Excellence in World Languages to Lindsey Voelker ’19.

Math Department Chair Claudia Hart ’78 presents the AP Calculus Award to Gabriel Landi ’20.

SCIENCE

SOCIAL STUDIES

Science Department Chair Mark Dodd presents the Biology Award to Lillian Bluestein ’22.

Social Studies Department Chair Paul Fitzpatrick presents the AP Comparative Government Award to Luke Connal ’19.

RELIGION

FINE ARTS

Religion Department Chair Deacon Richard Santos ’82 presents the Religion III Award to Alessandra Good ’20.

THE MAGA ZINE OF NORTHWEST

Fine Arts Department Chair Celina Marquis ’08 presents the Excellence in Theater Award to C AT H O L I C LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 21 Riley Doerner ’19.

KUDOS TO…

2018–2019 Honors Breakfasts Fall 2018 Alumnus Shares Lessons He Learned at NWC When Derek Donnelly opened his address to students at the Fall Honors Breakfast with a reference to Everything I Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, listeners thought they knew what was coming. But Donnelly surprised his audience with: “No, I didn’t learn everything at Northwest.” He continued, “But the most important lessons I learned here are with me today.”

 Attorney Derek Donnelly ’98

speaks at the Fall Honors Breakfast.

First, Donnelly spoke about the importance of service. He explained how lessons of Catholic social justice helped him understand how he could and should serve. He referenced several firsts he had at NWC — the first time he donated blood, the first time he organized a coat drive, the first time he volunteered at a senior center. Today he continues to serve in these three ways, including providing pro bono legal assistance to the elderly who can’t advocate for themselves.

Second, Donnelly told the students about effecting change through collaboration. He gave the example of participating in protests to change the

school uniform and lower prices in the cafeteria.

When the food service personnel raised its prices, he and his classmates protested by bringing bagged lunches day after day. Many students even brought bagged lunches for their classmates until those setting the price points retracted the increase.

Today Donnelly celebrates that collaborative spirit. He told the students it doesn’t matter what political party you belong to or what labels you’ve been assigned: it’s important to come together to make a difference in people’s lives.

Last, Donnelly stressed how the Northwest Catholic community opens doors. The first person who gave him a job, the first client who signed on the line, his first large account — all Northwest Catholic alumni.

Today Derek Donnelly is an attorney at Blackburn & O’Hara. He lives in Suffield with his wife and two children and remains a proud graduate of Northwest Catholic’s Class of 1998.

 Honors students

enjoy a delicious breakfast each fall and spring.  Seniors Kieran Shanley ’19, Kaleb Kristo ’19, and Garret Griffith ’19 have enjoyed many Honors Breakfasts together.

 Honors students gather in community

to celebrate their academic success.

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KUDOS TO…

Spring 2019 Alumnus Reminds Students to Build Relationships Alumnus Kenneth Goroshko ’73 began his keynote at the Spring Honors Breakfast by asking the students, “Do you want to know what I say when people ask me where I went to school?” Goroshko continued, “I don’t answer with the college I attended. I tell them I went to Northwest Catholic.”

 Spring Honors Breakfast

Keynote Kenneth Goroshko ’73 is a professor at the University of Hartford and Quinnipiac University.

Goroshko spoke of how influential Northwest Catholic had been on his life, and he stressed to the students how they would soon join the school’s tremendous alumni community. Goroshko shared how he learned the importance of friendship at Northwest. He learned about relationship-building and encouraged the students to always be asking the fundamental question: "How can I make a difference in another person’s life?”

At the end of his speech, Goroshko delivered powerful advice. He told the students to relax, develop at their own pace and in their own way, let things go, build their resilience and confidence, and always, always work to be an excellent friend.

 Ethan Cheffer ’19 receives his Honors Certificate.

 Shirley Love ’19 receives

her Honors Certificate.

41 SENIORS EARNED FIRST HONORS EVERY SEMESTER AT NORTHWEST CATHOLIC. Front row: Hope Moustakakis, Alexis Smolenski, Meghan Shea, Meghan O’Shea, Meghan Sisk, Annie Alissi, Hadley Waterbury, Clare Doyle, Riley Doerner, Victoria Panagakos. Middle row: Thura Zaw, Lukasz Burkacki, Matthew Villani, Brendan Chan, James Sabia, Tyler Esposito, Michael Stamm, Joseph DeVito, Michael Foster, William Robinson, Sean Macary, Thomas Miller, Joseph Janaskiee.

Back row: Megan Ferreira, Sarah Lazor, Madeline Travers, Francesca Discenza, Luke Connal, Christopher Sniffin, Ethan Cheffer, Michael Baldini, Matthew Shea, Jacob Beaudin, Lindsey Voelker, Sophia Argay, Elizabeth Murphy, Joanna Kuziak, Claire Carew.

Not pictured: Tianhao Huang, Jackson Ringquist, Tianyi Wang.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 23

KUDOS TO…

Sports Awards  Olivia Chappano ’19

and Joseph Janaskie ’19 win the Ron Swanson School Spirit Award for attending the most athletics events throughout the year.

 Isaac Riley ’20

makes All-State in football. Pictured with brother/coach Maleek ’12, NWC Hall of Famer and first football captain Chuck Drury ’65, and Head Varsity Football Coach Mike Lenz ’91.

Star Athletes!

 Michael Stamm ’19 and Meghan O’Shea ’19

are named CAS-CAIC Scholar Athletes.

FALL

WINTER

SPRING

All-Conference: Audrey Bonk ’21 (volleyball) Claire Carew ’19 (soccer) Lorenzo Garcia ’20 (soccer) Michael Stamm ’19 (cross country) Maeve Mullen ’21 (field hockey) Sydney Taylor ’20 (field hockey) Dario Laraia ’19 (football) Skye Dolce ’20 (football) Connor Rich ’20 (football) Isaac Riley ’20 (football) Evan Thompson ’20 (football)

All Conference: Matt Curtis ’22 (basketball) Erin Carucci ’20 (basketball) Lorenzo Garcia ’20 (indoor track & field)

All-Conference: Claire Carew ’19 (lacrosse) Meghan O’Shea ’19 (lacrosse) Nora Staunton ’20 (lacrosse) Sean Macary ’19 (lacrosse) Brennan Horn ’20 (lacrosse) Nico Mazzocca ’20 (lacrosse) Jenna Fahey ’19 (golf) Keagan Ostop ’20 (golf) Michael Baldini ’19 (golf) Justin Mathew ’19 (golf) Justin DeFina ’20 (golf) Chase Rancourt ’19 (baseball) Samantha Scott ’19 (softball) Allison Tessman ’20 (softball) Taylor Popella ’21 (softball) Joseph Janaskiee ’19 (tennis) Skye Dolce ’20 (track & field)

All-State: Audrey Bonk ’21 (volleyball) Claire Carew ’19 (soccer) Sydney Taylor ’20 (field hockey) Michael Stamm ’19 (cross country) Issac Riley ’20 (football) Top All-Academic Team Percentages: Cross Country 100%, Field Hockey 96.2% Girls Soccer 82.4%, Volleyball 76.6%

CCC North All-Conference: Brennan Horn ’20 Sean Macary ’19 Michael Kaliff ’19 All State: Michael Stamm ’19 (indoor track & field) Brandon Drummond ’20 (indoor track & field) Samuel Deveau ’19 (indoor track & field) Justin Tavares ’21 (indoor track & field) Brennan Horn ’20 (hockey) Sean Macary ’19 (hockey) Michael Baldini ’19 (swimming) SCC Coach’s Association Honorable Mention: Annie Alissi ’19 (hockey) Andalena Chancio ’20 (hockey) Riley Esposito ’23 (hockey)

All-State: Claire Carew ’19 (lacrosse) Justin Mathew ’19 (golf) Brennan Horn ’20 (lacrosse) Nico Mazzocca ’20 (lacrosse) Top All-Academic Team Percentages: Girls Lacrosse 100%, Girls Golf 100%, Girls Track & Field 100%, Boys Golf 100%.

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KUDOS TO…

2019 National Honor Society Inductees: Gabriella Alexander, Annie Alissi, MaryCharlotte Barnes, Caroline Bennett, Sophia Boudreaux, Samantha Casciani, Evan Clark, Andrew Colliton, Erin Conway, Haotian (Newton) Deng, Paige DiCiccio, Carly Drusedum, Katherine Dudley, Kateri Fitzsimons, Emma Forster, Emily Geary, Melania Gluch, Alessandra Good, Kelci-Brooke Goodison, Eh Hsee, Tianhao (Michael) Huang, Madison Hubert, Catherine Hurlburt, Reed Jones, Isabella Krocheski, Gabriel Landi, Ashleigh Lane, Benjamin Lee, Trevor Lindberg, Steven Liu, Brianna McDermott, Dominick Mealha, Sarah Monarca, Joseph Morganthaler, Isabel Mortillaro, Hayden Neubert, Kristen Newman, Keagan Ostop, Matthew Querfeld, Connor Rich, Mark Ruddat, Isabella Schuchardt, Caroline Sisk, Nora Staunton, Samuel Stiles, Sydney Taylor, Allison Tessman, Anthony Tran, Tianyi (Arthur) Wang, Catherine Wilcox, Declan Wlochowski, Kiana Woods, Boyang (Nick) Wu, Jiayi Wu, Thura Zaw.

A New Crew Keeps the Torch Burning

by Chris Stuck, Dean of Academics Northwest Catholic takes pride in educating our students to be leaders of faith and character. Character and leadership are two of the four virtues on which NHS was founded.

I challenge our National Honor Society inductees to “Bleed Green, Walk the Walk, and Make a Difference.”

This is what I mean by that: Bleed Green. Have pride in Northwest Catholic. Celebrate your accomplishments and the accomplishments of your peers.

When things need improvement in our community, be a catalyst for change. Be positive. And know that you represent Northwest Catholic in school and in the community.

 Juniors Samuel Stiles, Evan Clark, Matthew Querfeld, Mark Ruddat,

Trevor Lindberg, Benjamin Lee, Steven Liu, and Declan Wlochowski.  Juniors

Walk the walk. Pursue excellence in all that you do. Live the Northwest Catholic Graduate Profile. Be intellectually curious and spiritually aware. Be a compassionate leader. Be community focused.

And develop yourself both inside and outside of the classroom, in mind, body, spirit, and imagination. Most important, model this behavior for your peers at Northwest Catholic and in the community.

Walk the walk.

Make a difference. Leave this school a little better than how you found it. Get involved. Volunteer in campus ministry or in your community. Service to others should not end with the sophomore service project. Make a difference at Northwest Catholic and in the world.

Hayden Neubert, Carly Drusedum, Isabel Mortillaro, Caroline Bennett, and Gabriella Alexander.

 Juniors Catherine Hurlburt, Katherine Dudley, Andrew Colliton, and Gabriel Landi.

I challenge each of you to bleed green, walk the walk, and make a difference.

We are proud to pass the torch as shown in the National Honor Society insignia to this newest group of inductees. Keep it burning brightly and pass it on to others who share your zeal.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 25

Robotics

NWC Robotics Wins Grants then Awards

This year the NWC Robotics Team was awarded a $4,000 FIRST Robotics grant from United Technologies as well as a $4000 Argosy Foundation FRC Rookie Grant.

 NWC

Robotics won the 2019 Highest Rookie SEED Award from the New England FIRST District.

In March the team participated in the “Destination: Deep Space” competition sponsored by Boeing. Nearly 100,000 students worldwide committed to the painstaking and thrilling work preparing for the competition. Each team worked together to raise funds, design their team brand, master sophisticated software and hardware, and build a robot that could accomplish the assigned task.

UTC has been a sponsor of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) for 24 years, contributing more than $10 million in support of the program. Last year UTC sponsored more than 205 robotics teams in 23 states and three Canadian provinces. Last year Northwest Catholic was on the list.

26 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

NWC secured the FIRST Robotics grant with the support of UTC employee and alumni parent Chris Flynn. Flynn applied for the grant and agreed to mentor NWC’s team per the grant’s requirements.

Northwest Catholic teachers and team advisors, Sanchita Maitra and Daniel Luddy ’03 were on the front lines leading the group of young engineers.

FIRST AmericaCorp VISTA also sent a guide, Sean McClusky, to assist the students. NASA Astronaut Daniel Burbank along with additional UTC engineers also jumped aboard.

At the Destination Deep Space FIRST Robotics Competition, NWC won the 2019 Rookie Award along with a record of 6 wins, 5 losses, and 1 tie. In their second competition at the New England District Hartford Event, they won 6 of our 12 matches. Bravo, NWC Robotics!

KUDOS TO...

 Francesca Discenza ’19 talks with

a volunteer from FIRST Robotics.

 NWC Robotics Team, including advisors

Daniel Luddy ’03 (far left) and Sanchita Maitra (far right) as well as mentors from UTC at the “Destination: Deep Space” Competition.

Real Work Means Real Life Lessons

by Justin DeFina ’03 In math and science classes, I sometimes asked myself, “When will I ever use this?”

Like many students, I wondered when I’d need to use the friction equation or cosine. I no longer ask these questions.

After weeks of intensive math, physics, and construction, the Northwest Catholic Robotics Team competed for the first time in the Destination Deep Space FIRST Robotics Competition. We won the 2019 Rookie Award along with a record of 6 wins, 5 losses, and 1 tie. In our second competition at the New England District Hartford Event, we won 6 of our 12 matches. This is a strong showing for a novice team, and we are proud of our standings.

When the process first began, my teammates and I were just a group of students with a rough plan but no idea how to execute.

With the help of dedicated mentors ranging from engineers to NASA astronauts, “Larry” began to take shape.

It was during this stage that our team began to understand what it feels like to be tired after a long day at work. The school day suddenly became three hours longer.

Holidays and weekends became eight-hour workdays. At any time one could walk into the lab and see people talking, thinking, and scribbling on a whiteboard. What our team may have lacked in experience was made up for in hard work and dedication.

With every idea there were pitfalls, which required we try something different.

We were forced to persevere and realized that there was no such thing as a perfect plan. Also important to note: math had to be done at every stage.

Tenacity, creativity, cooperation, and, yes, math and science, provided the real life lessons here, and the NWC Robotics Team ISL is back this year even stronger.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

 Justin DeFina ’20 uses the drill press in the

school’s robotics lab. Justin was part of NWC’s Robotics Team who won the 2019 Rookie Award at the New England FIRST District Competition in March at the University of Western New England.

LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 27

News From Wamp

“This City is what it is because our citizens are what they are.”

– PLATO

NEWS FROM WAMP Father Colton was a classical pianist.

He wrote both the music and lyrics for our alma mater. Not every high school has an alma mater, but Father Colton believed that we should have one to proudly say who we are while here and to remind us from where we came. Every freshman learned it and joined the rest of the student body in singing it at pep rallies, sporting events, Junior Investiture, and many other school functions.  Spanish teacher Barbara Iorillo ’69

gives students a Northwest Catholic history lesson at fall convocation.

From Whence We Came

by Barbara Iorillo ’69

The first line of our song says we are “A fort of truth and honor.” According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word fort comes from the old French word fort or Italian forte or Latin fortis meaning strong, so a fort is a place that is strong. Northwest Catholic is strong in truth and honor. Honor means knowing and doing what is morally right.

Northwest Catholic opened its doors in 1961.

“Stands ‘neath the mountain” is the next line Archbishop Henry J. O’Brien appointed of the song. This refers to Avon Mountain.

Reverend Bradford Colton as its first principal. Father Colton served from 1961 “It is a shrine of wisdom / That we hold so to 1968. He was a well-educated man, dear to heart.” It is not enough to just learn who had earned degrees from both Trinity some things in our courses. We are active College in Hartford and Catholic University seekers of knowledge. We look to grow wise in Washington, D.C. Father Colton defined in many areas of study and in our daily lives Northwest Catholic. He set the tone and by seeking the truth — in science, in religion, the character of our great school. He hired in history — the truth in all our courses Dominican sisters from Ohio, known as and, also, in our social interactions. outstanding educators. He also hired priests “For Northwest Catholic High stands as well as laypeople to round out the faculty firm / On bases of faith and love.” and staff. So from the beginning Northwest Our faith in God and our caring for one Catholic has been a school with a diverse another are the foundations of who we are. nature yet united in a central purpose.

“May our Northwest never change / May The original leaders of our school gave she carry on / To persevere in truth.” of themselves to one another and to their Father Colton envisioned a Northwest students on a daily basis and well beyond Catholic community that would continue official school hours. They created the to value the truth and do what is morally caring nurturing environment of learning right even when it is difficult or unpopular. that we still have today, 57 years later.

The second verse says, “As students of Our school, on Wampanoag Drive, Northwest / We guide our lives by her ideal. is built on what Father Colton referred / We pledge our faith and loyalty / To keep to as the “sacred ground” of its original her banner high.” This means we must stay inhabitants, known as Indians and now faithful to our belief in God and our service called Native Americans. The first to others, to seek truth in all that we do and Thanksgiving was celebrated with the to live honorably forever.

Pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians.

“For Northwest Catholic High / Can claim With this in mind, our first Athletic our zeal to bring her fame!” Although a Director, Mr. Charlie Larson, named us word that is not commonly used these days, the Northwest Catholic Indians. We wore zeal means great energy and enthusiasm that name proudly on our sports uniforms in pursuing a course or objective. for more than 50 years, respecting and upholding the original Americans, who The graduates of Northwest Catholic believed in a Supreme Being and were continue to seek truth and to live by doing grateful for God’s many gifts, respecting what is morally right in their varied careers. nature and the environment.

Some examples include the more than

There is also Mr. Terrence O’Connell ’69 as Vice President of Time-Warner, Mr. Richard Lamb ’67 a reporter with CBS News, Major General Paul E. LeFebvre ’71 of the United States Marine Corps, the various graduates who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces, including those like my student, Rupert Townsend ’78, who gave his life for his country, Father Richard Frechette ’71 a priest and physician working in Haiti, Molly Budds ’99, who is an oncology nurse advocating for breast cancer patients, my daughter Sarah Iorillo ’02 who teaches special needs students, and so many more.

I am proud to be a Northwest Catholic graduate, and I am proud to serve as one of your educators. We have a 57-year legacy of students who go on to live and promote the ideals of Truth and Honor. I know that our current students will continue this fine tradition. So I ask our students to focus on the words of our alma mater when they sing it. Stay true to our ideals, represent our school well and go on to be, as so many before you are, proud graduates of Northwest Catholic High School.

Alma Mater A fort of truth and honor

Stands ‘neath the mountain; It is a shrine of wisdom That we hold so dear to heart; For Northwest Catholic High stands firm On bases of faith and love.

May our Northwest never change May she carry on To persevere in truth.

As students of Northwest We guide our lives by her ideal.

We pledge our faith and loyalty To keep her banner high, For Northwest Catholic High Can claim our zeal to bring her fame!

by Rev. Bradford Colton Northwest Catholic High School Founding Principal, 1961–1968

20 members of our faculty and staff.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 29

NEWS FROM WAMP

The Rhythm AUGUST

Welcome Class of 2022!

SEPTEMBER Link Crew makes the Class of 2023 feel welcome during Orientation 2018.

NOVEMBER

Maeve Mullen ’21 and Jessica Akin ’21 collect money for the Annual Turkey Drive.

Veteran Ronald Ferri as the keynote at this year’s Veterans Day Celebration. Mr. Ferri began teaching at NWC when the doors opened in 1961.

JANUARY Northwest Catholic celebrates MLK Day with a “Peacemaker in Your Pocket Day.” Every student and staff member was given a peacemaker to be held in their pockets during the entire day.

Religion teacher Chris Haddad and students in the Campus Ministry Office hold up their peacemakers.

NAACP Hartford Chapter 1st VP Joan H. Gibson speaks at NWC’s Black History Month Presentation.

30 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

During the school’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, Justin Tavares ’21 gives a history lesson of King’s contributions to the Civil Right’s Movement and ties King’s message back to Northwest Catholic’s diverse community.

A dance troupe from Studio 860 gathers on the Rice Auditorium stage after their hip hop performance for Black History Month.

Alex Murillo ’15 and Brandon Couloute ’10 are among the dancers.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

of the Year OCTOBER Dawn Kennelly ’95 and her daughter at NWC’s Trick or Treat.

The Annual Halloween Party

DECEMBER Link Crew and their freshmen make gingerbread houses at Christmas time.

Matthew Martorelli ’03 and Daniel Luddy ’03 at the Christmas Concert.

FEBRUARY

Freshmen collecting Christmas gifts for the Toy Drive.

Evan Thompson ’20 delivers the keynote at the school’s Black History Month Convocation.

International student Steven Tian ’21 gives the keynote at NWC’s Chinese New Year Convocation.

Newton Deng ’20, plays the flute at the Chinese New Year Celebration.

MAY Spirit Week at NWC

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 31

NEWS FROM WAMP

 Isabella Krocheski ’20 places a candle

on the altar during Junior Investiture.

Junior Investiture: Be a Light for the World

by Christian Cashman At Junior Investiture we honor our juniors who become formally invested as upperclassmen in our community. At our all-school Mass and evening prayer service, we gather in community and stand in support of our juniors as they take this important step of deep commitment to their academic, spiritual, and physical lives at NWC. During Junior Investiture these young men and women join the ranks of decades of NWC students who have embraced their call to excellence and servant leadership.

At this year's Junior Investiture, I challenged the juniors to answer the call of Jesus in Matthew’s Gospel to be a “light for the world,” a world that desperately needs their light.

They were called to be excellent in mind, body, spirit, and imagination; to practice justice, to engage in service, and to show concern for the dignity of all persons; to show compassion, patience, and forgiveness for their NWC brothers and sisters; to be servant leaders who demonstrate love in action.

They were accompanied by the senior class to the altar to receive their investiture crosses — a sign of God’s grace and presence and a symbol of their call to follow in the footsteps of Christ, to serve and to become men and women for others — at Northwest Catholic and in the world.

During the evening prayer service we confirmed and affirmed the light in the entire junior class. We confirmed them in our school’s motto and shield that “In your light, we shall see light.”

I left the juniors with one final message (what I might say is the great secret of living in the light) that I shared via a short parable from the ancient Zen tradition.

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In 4th century China there was a young monk named Tokusan.

He was an intellect and ambitious scholar. He wanted to be enlightened more than any other thing on earth. In this pursuit, he sought out the greatest teacher of his day, the great Master Yutan.

Tokusan and Yutan finally met. They tore into the sutras with great zeal and tremendous fervor all day, and into the night they argued and studied. Just before dawn, almost dead from exhaustion, Tokusan turned to leave the little hut of Master Yutan. Yutan handed him a candle and said, “Here, you will need this to light your way.”

Tokusan took the candle, stepped out the door, turned to his teacher to bow in respect, and as he did, Yutan leaned over, blew out the candle, and slammed the door! Tradition says it was in that moment that Tokusan was enlightened.

What was his insight? It is the same insight that we teach.

It is the great secret of faith:

The light of Christ is within you, not outside of you.

These signs and symbols of candles and light are reminders.

They point to the deeper truth that God’s light is always, always available to us.

I urge all our students to remember this great secret of faith.

All the light you need, the light of Christ, is within you at every moment, in every breath. Let the light, this cross, and this community, be a constant reminder that you are vessels of God’s light and let it shine always and everywhere.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

Coming in: Visitors to Northwest Catholic Students Learn from Tolton: From Slave to Priest Last September students enjoyed a live performance of Tolton: From Slave to Priest, a reenactment of the life of Fr. Augustus Tolton, the first African American Catholic priest in the U.S. The touring play was created by Saint Luke Productions of Battle Ground, WA, a Catholic theater ministry that creates plays and movies about the Gospels and saints. The mission of the theater company is to teach audiences about Jesus and to support those in theater and the arts.  Stage Manager Sean Hanus, Actor Jim Coleman,

and Father Ed Nadolny, the man responsible for bringing the live performance of Tolton: From Slave to Priest to Northwest Catholic.

The man behind bringing Tolton to Northwest Catholic is Fr. Ed Nadolny.

For the past five years, Fr. Naldony has brought plays, such as St. John Vianney and Thérèse: The Story of a Soul, to Connecticut schools.

Students Encouraged to Make Good Choices In the weeks leading up to prom and graduation, the student body heard the message again and again — make good choices. Emt opened his speech last May with three important pieces of advice:

about these important years with great fondness and gratitude. He described his experiences as “incredible,” confident he was at the top of his game with many choices before him.

1. Celebrate your successes; 2. Learn from your failures; 3. Make good choices.

But on March 24, 1995, Emt made a terrible decision. He got behind the wheel of his pick-up truck drunk and rolled his vehicle on I-84, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.

As his lecture unfolded, Emt offered even more words of wisdom. He told the students people will come into their lives — “guides” he called them — and they will give them good advice. Listen to them.

Emt travelled back in time to describe his athletic career before his life-altering accident.

An exceptional high school and college athlete, Emt regaled the audience with his storied career as a three-sport high school star who headed to West Point in 1988. That November his father died unexpectedly and the brave Emt tried tricking himself into believing he could continue on the same path without respite. Emt described the loss of his father as his “first major obstacle.”

Emt eventually left West Point and returned home to enroll at the University of Connecticut where an assistant basketball coach saw him play in a pick-up game.

Soon after, Jim Calhoun called Emt and invited him to be a walk-on. Emt reminisced

Emt’s story held Northwest Catholic’s community riveted. To see Emt, an athlete, a UConn graduate, a young man with his future bright, lying near-dead in a ditch because of a tragic and terrible choice, made its mark. Every detail Emt painted, from the Life Star transport to the six-hour surgery to his mother’s heartbreak, colored an image the students could not erase.

 Paralympic

curler and Connecticut native Steve Emt visited in May to deliver a powerful message — make good choices.

Still, Emt’s story was not bleak.

His first message might have been about bad choices, but his second about fighting back was equally potent. After conquering feelings of hopelessness, Emt rehabilitated, recovered, and continued to tackle tasks before him with intractable competitiveness.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

Coming in: Visitors to Northwest Catholic Author Steve Rushin Visits Northwest News Staff  Writer Steve Rushin

stands with members of Northwest Catholic’s newspaper staff: (from left) Cate Wilcox ’20, Sophia Argay ’19, Lidia Anderson ’19, Brandon Drummond ’20, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Alton Grange ’19, and MaryCharlotte Barnes ’20.

Last February journalist, novelist, memoirist, and all-around great guy, Steve Rushin visited the Northwest News team to share his insights on journalism, podcasting, and the writer’s life.

Rushin is the author of the guide, Pool Cool; the travelogue, Road Swing: One Fan's Journey Into the Soul of America's Sports; the essay collection, The Caddie Was a Reindeer; the novel, The Pint Man; the who-knows-what-kind-of-book, The 34-Ton Bat: The Story of Baseball as Told Through Bobbleheads, Cracker Jacks, Jockstraps, Eye Black, and 375 Other Strange and Unforgettable Objects; the memoir, Sting-Ray Afternoons; and another memoir, Nights in White Castle, which was published last spring.

Many of us know Steve Rushin because of his storied career at Sports Illustrated.

He joined the staff of SI in 1988, only days after graduating from Marquette.

Three years later he became the youngest senior writer on the staff. Rushin traveled the globe, covering some of the biggest sporting events in the world. His weekly column, Air & Space, ran for almost a decade; and although Rushin left his full-time gig at SI in 2010, he continues to be a contributing columnist.

The young journalists of Northwest News were prepped for Rushin’s visit, but it’s still unclear whether or not they understood they had the real deal before them.

This uncertainty was crystallized when one student asked, “Wait, are you married to Rebecca Lobo?” Mr. Rushin began his talk at Northwest Catholic harkening to his

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start as a writer. He mentioned the time his mother fished from the trash a crumpled story that she circulated through her bridge club. When Rushin returned home to the hoopla, he was mortified. But as the women complimented him, he realized he’d just met his first audience and the experience wasn’t half bad. Rushin continued his chat with the students reminiscing about countless hours writing as a child, filling up pages, publishing a “fake” newspaper, and practicing the discipline of the writing life.

Rushin had his audience shaking their heads in disbelief when he said he was squeezed out of his high school journalism club and chuckling as he described sweating and staring at a phone, mustering the courage to call a source.

He told the story of his father encouraging him to join Marquette’s newspaper staff and the verve with which he dived into his first assignment — four paragraphs on the school’s flag football intramural. Rushin likened his enthusiasm to the thrill of writing a lead story for Sports Illustrated.

As the years unfolded, and Rushin’s nerves evaporated, he came to see that a press pass gave him license to ask questions and that, with patience, he could get anyone, even a petulant Dustin Pedroia, to open up. He mentioned breakthrough stories like his 1991 account of the Minnesota Twins winning the 7th game of the World Series and his articles that have been the longest pieces published in single issues of Sports Illustrated.

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As the meeting wound down, Rushin’s final remarks centered on his podcast with wife, Rebecca Lobo, (yes to the student who asked!) and what it’s like to carve out time from work, their four children, and a myriad of responsibilities to sit at T.V. tables in the basement and, well, to put it simply, talk.

He explained to the students the process of recording a podcast, the contributions of his sound editor, and maybe the most exciting part of the project — seeing how it reaches across the world. Rushin appreciates how it resonates with strangers everywhere and checks the number of downloads with humility and awe.

On that February morning at Northwest Catholic, Rushin’s central messages were clear — write anything and often, talk to anyone about everything, eschew fame for passion and purpose, and, remember, the best stories are about people. Still, the biggest takeaway might not have been his sage advice: it might have been that there are good people doing good work (and good works) everywhere, and Steve Rushin is one of them.

NEWS FROM WAMP

West Hartford School Nurses Teach CPR When Northwest Catholic School Nurse Beth Bornstein RN, NCSN, invited students to take a CPR class, they leapt at the chance. Within minutes the roster was full and Nurse Beth was recruiting colleagues to help her teach the course.

Last March 12 students and three West Hartford non-public school nurses gathered in Northwest Catholic’s Gelormino Library for the Heartsaver CPR and AED course.

Lori Flaherty, RN, lead nurse of West Hartford non-public school nurses, and Cindy O’Laughlin RN, school nurse at Hebrew High School of New England, joined Bornstein to teach the course. All three nurses are American Heart Association CPR instructors. They co-taught the course content and broke into small groups to lead the hands-on portion.

Sam Deveau ’19 signed up for the course because he knows how useful the skill can be. Deveau said, “Something can happen to someone at home or out in public, and a trained person would know what to do. I can be that person.”

Deveau plans to pursue a degree in the medical field.

 Cindy O’Laughlin, RN, nurse at Hebrew High School of

New England, tells Yuqing Cheng ’22 where to press.

Sheena Wolliston ’19 echoed Deveau’s remarks and added that she especially liked learning about the AED and appreciated how it tells the user what to do.

Wolliston said, “The directions make it less nerve-racking. You can calmly follow what the machine tells you.”

Northwest Catholic educates the whole person, mind, body, spirit, and imagination. The school prepares students for life, and that’s precisely what a CPR course can do.

 Lori Flaherty, RN, lead nurse of West Hartford non-public school nurses looks on as

Sheena Wolliston ’19 and Sam Deveau ’19 practice performing CPR on dummies.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

Coming in: Visitors to Northwest Catholic  World Language Department Chair Ana Barrett and her former student Judge Donna M. Wilkerson-Bryant ’83.

 The Honorable Donna M. Wilkerson-Bryant ’83 of the

Ansonia-Milford Judicial District returned to her alma mater on Law Day, May 1, to present a First Amendment lesson to NWC's civics classes as well as share stories about life as a judge.  James Nicholas ’19,

Bishop Peter Rosazza, Meghan Shea ’19.

 Bishop Peter

Rosazza visited Maria Price’s French class during his visit last spring. Bishop Rosazza taught French, Spanish, and Italian at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield and was Episcopal Vicar for the Spanish speaking Catholics in the Archdiocese of Hartford.

 Danté Jeanfelix ’11 visited Sara Avery’s acting class

 Brandon Couloute ’10 was a guest artist in Kate Morran’s

to discuss his career. Jeanfelix recently performed in Playing Hot by Pipeline Theatre Company at Theater 511 in NYC. Other credits include Balls by Stages Repertory Theatre, If on a Winter's Night... by Everyday Inferno Theatre Company, The Tempest by The Classical Theatre of Harlem, and many more.

dance class. Couloute is a director, dancer, choreographer, and teacher. He has choreographed for organizations such as Hartford Stage, the Harlem Globetrotters, and the Trinity International Hip Hop Festival. He has taught at Central CT State University, Trinity College, The G.R.I.N.D. Intensive, and more.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

NWC Students: Adventures In the World!  Before the school

year begins, HILL (Honors Institute for Leadership and Life) students go on retreat, which usually means a trip into the woods!

 NWC’s international students and student ambassadors

at the top of Heublein Tower in Simsbury.

 Students attending the Close Up Conference

 Director of Admissions Andrew Selig ’06,

 Mock Trial members at Quinnipiac University’s

in Washington D.C. took time out to see the Georgetown vs Villanova game!

Academic Dean Christopher Stuck, and English Department Chair Joan Keating-McKeon judging the annual speech contest at St. Gabriel School in Windsor.

School of Law.

 NWC student-musicians

at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

 HILL students in the Netherlands with Scott Cullen ’95.

 President Christian Cashman and former President

Fr. Henry Frascadore out for breakfast in West Hartford.

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NEWS FROM WAMP

NWC Students: Adventures In the World!

NWC Heads to the Capitol, Libby Vandal ’19 Speaks Last March students attended Women and Girls’ Day at the Capitol. The event, scheduled in March in honor of Women’s History Month, was centered on empowering young women to lead. Workshops and keynotes included discussions regarding advocacy, community engagement, and civic responsibility. Eleven students from Northwest Catholic attended the special event, and senior Libby Vandal was one of four student speakers.  Libby Vandal ’19 speaks

at Women and Girls’ Day at the Capitol.

Vandal addressed the audience of women with a tribute to JK Rowling, world famous author of the Harry Potter series. Vandal began, “Today JK Rowling and Harry Potter are names tossed around in casual conversation all over the world, but it wasn’t always like that.” Vandal went on to talk about Rowling’s struggles with poverty and difficult home life. Vandal told the audience of Rowling’s challenges as a single mother and her battle with depression.

Students at the Women and Girls’ Day at the Capitol.

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The clincher? “When Rowling completed her manuscript in 1995, she sent it to 12 publishing houses, all of which rejected it.”

Vandal told her audience she chose to speak about JK Rowling because of the author’s persistence.

Vandal could see how both personally and professionally, despite a myriad of hardships, Rowling never gave up. Vandal shared her own personal story of being rejected by her first-choice college and how she is already learning from the experience. Vandal said, “Rejection redirected me and helped me to get on the path I am on today.”

To her peers from the various middle and high schools, Vandal said, “I always remind myself that although things may seem rough right now, I am on the cusp of something great, and each obstacle is simply just a speed bump on the road of life.”

NEWS FROM WAMP

Celebrating the Class of 2019!

College T-shirt Day

 Look who’s headed to Catholic

colleges and universities across the country!  Seniors pin the map to

show where they’re headed for college.

Junior-Senior Prom

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It’s a Family Affair!

Bishop Juan Miguel Betancourt

Yael Santiago

Justin Matthew

Eymee Salazar

Jackson Ringquist & Yoshika Tsuruki

Michael Stamm

NEWS FROM WAMP

Graduation June 5, 2019

Commencement Speaker Molly Rees Gavin ’67 The Small Man

Builds cages for everyone He Knows.

While the sage,

Who has to duck his head When the moon is low

Keeps dropping keys all night long For the

Beautiful Rowdy

Prisoners.

This exquisite verse was written in the 14th century by a Sufi, Islamic, Muslim poet and mystic, Nafiz.

Northwest Catholic High School provided you with opportunities beyond measure: academically, athletically, spiritually, artistically, so you could begin to find your place as citizens of this world, a world in desperate need of your energy, commitment, smarts, and compassion.

I graduated from Northwest right here in this Cathedral, during the Vietnam War, shortly after the assassination of JFK, at a time of rising awareness of racial and gender injustice. I thought those would be the darkest, bleakest moments in my personal historic timeline, and I believed that for some fifty years, until now, today, the time of your graduation.

The world needs you.

So we have a very needy world and 140 passionate, committed young people and a Sufi poet from the 14th century. Are you beginning to see any connections?

So many of you have already begun to share your keys of empowerment and hope with others in need. You have done this through your work with Manna Meals, the Hartford Catholic Worker, ConnectiKids, and the Cathedral Food Pantry.

I'm going to take a risk here and offer a suggestion of one final homework assignment. When you return home tonight, or in the wee hours of the morning, find an old key around your house or apartment. Every household has at least one junk drawer with old keys. No one remembers what they open, so take one. Put it on your keyring.

That's your talisman, your symbol and reminder, everyday, that you are dropping keys, as often as you can, to empower and nurture others.

 Molly Rees Gavin ’67 tells

graduates to give keys to others.

If you decide to go into medicine, nursing, physical, occupational, or speech therapy or an allied health profession, you will have boundless opportunities to drop keys for your patients and their loved ones. If you decide to enter the education profession, you can drop keys for hundreds of children and families. If your path is that of military service, you will be giving keys to those with whom you serve. The professions of law, social work, counseling, just to name a few, provide opportunities to drop those keys.

And note that I never said, and neither did our Sufi poet, that we are unlocking doors for others; no, we respect and honor and empower everyone to open his or her own door when he or she sees fit.

Your parents, grandparents, teachers, administrators, coaches, clergy, and other loved ones gave you the key to your Northwest Catholic door. Each of you opened that door yourself and now stand ready to give that key to others.

Many keys.

Many gifts.

One Spirit.

Congratulations.

Your future awaits you.

Empower and nurture others.

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#Goodworks

“Day by day, what you choose, what you think, and what you do is who you become.”

– HERACLITUS

#GOODWORKS

Where Two or More

by Christian J. Cashman, President & Head of School

When I was recently asked, “Why do we gather for Mass?” I was a bit floored and at a loss for a succinct answer. The obvious answer is, “Well, we’re a Catholic school. That’s what we do.” But I understand the question was coming from a deeper place. It comes from a place of seeking, and of a desire for understanding the transcendent mystery and practice of Eucharist.

At some point, the question finally got out of my head and into my heart and imagination. I remembered the passage from Matthew’s gospel about gathering. Why do we gather at Mass? We gather to encounter Jesus our teacher. And as he himself taught, when you gather with just one other beloved soul, let alone 500, you encounter Jesus in the face of your neighbor, your classmate, your sibling, your teacher, your mentor or coach. This too is the real presence of Jesus, enfleshed in the body and spirit of the community at the table.

Put another way, we gather at Mass to remember who we are and to whom we belong. As I remind the Northwest Catholic Community every time we gather for Mass, let us never forget the privilege we enjoy to gather as a faith community, to give thanks, to honor our joys and sorrows, pray for the needs of our families and our community, and break the bread that feeds our souls.

The late Monika Hellwig once said, “It is nearly impossible to teach the fullness of the Eucharist and the Mass to a person who has never experienced a raucous, lavish, all night family meal around a table together.” (This is one of the reasons we introduced round tables of ten in the NWC dining hall and ditched the cell phones during lunch, so that we could remind ourselves what it is like to see your brothers’ and sisters’ faces around the table).

“For where two or more are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them.”

—Matthew 18:20

When we gather at the Mass, we share the ancient salvation stories that sustain us, and then we bring our own story for a blessing to the table of the Eucharist. And we always remember as well the generations of giants who have gone before us in faith as our models at Northwest Catholic, as we read the list of deceased alumni and friends. It is this long and unbroken chain of meaning that makes our gathering so essential to the formation of the whole person at NWC. May our gatherings at Mass be as raucous, joyful, sorrowful, and spiritual as our greatest family meal in memory. God bless Northwest Catholic and all who meet each other here, in Church.

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#GOODWORKS  Boys Tennis

participates in Hartford’s Walk Against Hunger.

 MaryCharlotte Barnes ’20 spearheads annual Helping Hands event

when the community gathers to pack 10,000 meals for Burkino Faso.

 The ACTS (A Chance to Save) class delivers turkeys for the hungry and embarks on their five-day service immersion.

Being the Hands and Feet of Christ

by Chris Haddad, Religion Teacher Occasionally, we might hear a saying so frequently that we risk becoming immune to its meaning and it threatens to become a platitude. One such phrase is the idea of “being the hands and feet of Christ.” What exactly does this mean? Without some real intentional thought and reflection about the meaning of the words, it might become too easy to miss its significance.

In a very powerful prayer, Saint Teresa of Avila reminds us that “Christ has no body now but yours, no hands, no feet on earth but yours.”

Let that powerful idea sink in for just a second. Christ has no body but yours. Look at the hands at the end of your arms — according to Saint Teresa, Christians will recognize that while they are attached to our bodies, they belong to Christ. And not just our hands, but our whole bodies, the entirety of our being.

That idea reflects both an incredible privilege as well as an awesome, perhaps intimidating, obligation.

It is a privilege because we get to be Christ’s representatives in this world that is thirsting for Christ’s mercy and compassion.

We often read in scripture of the transformational nature of people’s encounter with Christ. To have been in Christ’s presence was to have been fundamentally changed in the most profound way.

When we embrace the opportunity to be Christ’s representative in the world, each of us also has the opportunity to bring that kind of transformational experience to those around us.

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When we reach out to a person in their suffering to show him or her compassion, when we feed someone who is hungry, when we talk to someone who is lonely or has been marginalized, when we fight against injustice, we help to bring Christ’s mercy and compassion to those who are suffering as if He is standing before the person Himself.

It is truly a privilege to be the vessel that helps to deliver the love and mercy and compassion of Christ to those who need it.

But while it is a privilege, Saint Teresa also reminds us that it is a weighty obligation. If we accept that Christ really has no body now on earth but our bodies, then that raises the stakes for us. Do we dare allow those hands and feet of ours to rest idle, knowing that every opportunity we pass up to serve those in need is the same as denying them the mercy and compassion of Christ that they might otherwise experience through us?

So, when reminded by Saint Teresa that we are Christ’s hands and feet in this world, we must respond with a life of service in all that we do, recognizing that we help to animate Christ in a world that is so desperate for His love and mercy and compassion.

Living in our world is difficult. Suffering exists all around us.

To even think about attempting to meaningfully address this suffering threatens to overwhelm even the boldest among us.

At those times when we might feel overwhelmed, we are well served to remember that we can only be where we are, with the people that we encounter. And in that encounter, we bring our hands, our feet, our eyes, our mouths, our minds and our hearts – our whole selves, and we bring Christ with us wherever we go.

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#GOODWORKS  The Student Council

organizes the blood drives that yielded 75 pints for the American Red Cross last year.

 Global Awareness Club cleans up Collinsville.

 Girls Lacrosse participates

in team-building activities with students from Grace Academy.

 Students and staff who travelled to Haiti last summer on a service

 Students collect donations

immersion trip share their experiences with the NWC community.

for Hurricane Florence relief.

 Students make

care packages those in need.

 Volleyball captains deliver blankets

to The Village for Families & Children.  Girls Lacrosse

participates in Unified Sports.

 Football players unload the Foodshare

truck and restock the pantry at the Cathedral of St. Joseph.

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#GOODWORKS

Empty Bowls is a national grassroots organization that works to fight hunger. NWC's Empty Bowls Club hosts an ice cream social and donates its proceeds to Hartford's House of Bread.

 NWC has its own hydroponic greenhouse to grow food for the hungry.

During his senior year, Christian Heiden ’17 spearheaded the construction of the greenhouse.

Today he leads Levo International, a non-profit that advances food stability in the developing world.

Here Benjamin Lee ’20 is working in the greenhouse.

 Healing Meals is

a non-profit based at Auerfarm in Bloomfield and was established to provide healthy meals to people with serious health concerns.

NWC students volunteer for the organization.

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#GOODWORKS  Hayden Neubert ’20

grows vegetables in the school’s hydroponic greenhouse and St. Isadore Garden.

 NWC community

members volunteer their time for Manna Meals.

Food is LOVE

by Kristina Gillespie, Director of Campus Ministry

Made with love and served with love.

The first Monday of the month is always a busy day in the Campus Ministry Office and a favorite day at Manna Community Meals on Church Street in Hartford. For almost two decades, students, teachers, parents, siblings, and friends of Northwest Catholic have gathered each month to prepare dinner for the guests at Manna Community Meals.

The visits to Manna began after one student, Shana Moynihan ’05, suggested cooking dinner at a soup kitchen as an activity for Campus Ministry. After several visits to Manna that first year, we made the decision to commit to a regular time every month. The fund to support the Manna Meals program was established in memory of Linda Glascock by her husband, John, and her son, John ’15.

Linda passed away in October, 2015, and her family requested that memorial gifts be directed to NWC for Campus Ministry’s Manna Meals program in which Linda had been very involved while John was a student here.

Over the years our menu has evolved, based on the ideas of our guests and of our students. One year a student suggested that chocolate milk might be a nice addition, and so we added that. That student knew what she was talking about – the chocolate milk is very popular, and I believe we are the only group that serves it. We have made an effort to serve root beer floats every August, and one guest a few years ago asked why we don’t serve ice cream every month. Ice cream is expensive and hard to buy ahead of time. However, the establishment

of a memorial fund for our Manna Meals has allowed us to serve ice cream almost every month. Brownie sundaes are now the standard dessert.

We love when a guest says to us, “I am stuffed!” Along with the chicken and noodles, we serve mixed vegetables, garden salad, fruit salad, bread and butter, chocolate milk, and dessert. Some guests tell us that while they don’t eat at Manna Meals every night, they make a point of coming on the first Monday of the month for our meal. The best compliment we ever received was a guest who told us, “This all tastes homemade. I can tell it is made with love.”

Our meal is made with love and served with love. The love we serve with might be the most important item on the menu. Poverty, and homelessness in particular, can make a person invisible.

Think about how often we encounter people in need on the sidewalk as we go about our day, and how often we turn away and try not to look at them. This is how people in need become invisible. But when we serve dinner at Manna, we look our guests in the eyes, we smile, we talk with them. And if the serving goes smoothly and we have enough food, we make plates for ourselves and we sit down and eat dinner with our guests.

It is important that physical hunger and the hunger for friendship and human interaction are addressed in equal measure.

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IN THE ARTS

“Wisdom begins in wonder.”

– SOCRATES

IN THE ARTS

Create • Visual Arts

 Mary Velazquez ’19 in front of her piece.

Mary’s work was also on display at the Monastery Gallery of Art.

 Each winter and spring NWC artists under the guidance of Celina Marquis ’08 put together a stunning art show.

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IN THE ARTS

Delight • Music  Sarah Lazor ’19

and Lindsey Voelker ’19 at the Annual Jazz Cabaret Night.

 Kathryn Morelli ’19 sings at the

Spring Performing Arts Showcase.

 All of NWC’s choirs perform

at the Annual Holiday Concert.  The Big Band

performs for the student body during NWC’s Christmas Assembly.

UPCOMING ARTS EVENTS 2019 Fall Play:

2019 Spring Musical:

November 15, 16, 17, 2019

March 27, 28, 29, 2020

Performing Arts Showcase

Annual Jazz Cabaret Night

December 12, 2019

May 2, 2020

Dancing at Lughnasa

The Sound of Music

Christmas Concert December 19, 2019

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IN THE ARTS

Belong • Theater Become • Dance  William Kasheta ’21

dances in the foreground during the Spring Performing Arts Showcase.

 Ben Stone-Zelman ’21

 Myia C

happell ’2

0

avis ’22 Cecilia D ’21 and ie wcase. w o o h B S r s Taylo  rming Art o rf e P r inte at the W

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IN THE ARTS

Belong • Theater Dramateurs Start a Conversation with The Arsonists Last November the Dramateurs mesmerized audiences with its production of Max Frisch’s The Arsonists.

For example, Northwest Catholic Social Studies Teacher Joseph Ohlheiser ’05 gave the actors lessons on fascism and the rise of totalitarianism in Western Europe during rehearsals.

Directors Sara Avery and Kate Morran led the talented group of students in the production of this evocative, dark, and timely comedy. Both directors quoted lines from the play as they discussed With the help of Costume Designer Linda Milton and Lighting the powerful innuendoes in the script. The repeating question Designer Will Sanders ’05, Technical Director Rorie Fitzsimons, “don’t you trust us,” the obsequious and manipulative “it’s your house,” also a teacher at the school and retired Senior Technical Director and the self-interested “thank goodness it isn’t here” smacked of Undergraduate Production at Yale University, the directors of events in history, even recent history, that audience members brought the message to light. couldn’t ignore. Morran emphatically said of the characters in the play: “When you willfully ignore evil, evil prevails.”

And light it sparked. Set in a town being attacked by arsonists, disguised door-to-door salesmen talked their way into people’s homes and settled down in their attics where they planned the destruction of the houses. The action centered around Mr. Biedermann (a name that loosely translates from the German to “Everyman”) and his sense of propriety and quest for belonging.

“Art is a conversation,” Avery concluded, and they had many conversations surrounding the play and its messages. The adults and the students who produced this stirring story talked history, not politics. They talked universal truths and Catholic teachings, not dogma. They talked about what is good and right and safe and just.

Director Sara Avery explained how the school’s Dramateurs tackled social justice issues this year.

She said their work was “to start conversations and ask questions about what it means to be responsible citizens of the world.”

Co-director Kate Morran echoed Avery’s remarks, adding that the goals included more education underpinning the pieces and collaboration with colleagues.

 Isabella Morsheimer ’21

performs a monologue at the Spring Performing Arts Showcase.

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 Ben Stone-Zelman ’21 as

Schmitz and Jordan Pita’20 as Beidermann in the fall production of The Arsonists.

IN THE ARTS

Belong • Theater

NWC and the Intensive Education Academy in Unified Theatre’s production of “Dear Diary, when I grow up….”

We are UNIFIED! Unified Theater brings together students with disabilities and typical students. They all work together to create a theme each year, and everyone is encouraged to bring suggestions to the table then figure out ways to incorporate the various ideas. Together they put on a production to delight their audience.

“Unified Theater embodies the purpose of every single club or activity at Northwest — to build community. Everyone involved in the program looks forward to rehearsal, despite their actual role or job. It’s just a good time where you’re able to be comfortable with yourself and where others are able to be comfortable around you.”

—Gabriel Landi ’20

Another Ten Years of Godspell The Dramateurs put on Godspell in 1971, 1981, and again in 2009. Directors Sara Avery and Kate Morran produced the show in 2009 and have known for a decade they would be presenting a fresh rendition of the beloved show again in 2019.

Every piece of last year’s production of Godspell pointed toward community.

Director and Choreographer Kate Morran said, “Our Dramateurs understand community, so we hinged all our rehearsals, production design, and staging around the idea that this cast is a village of people following a wonderful teacher — Jesus. This work required an incredible amount of reverence and responsibility, and we partnered heavily on this project with our colleagues in Campus Ministry to solidify the connection to our faith.”

Northwest Catholic’s rendition of Godspell shined a light on community and what it can and should mean. The show highlighted the fundamental belief that diversity is vital for a healthy community and asked the essential question of what community should strive toward. Each actor, each crew member, each volunteer, every single person who touched the production brought something unique and rich and necessary to the show. They were all part of the village.

 The cast of Godspell.

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 53

ATHLETICS

“First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.”

– EPICTETUS

Hudd le up

ATHLETICS

A Message from Athletic Director Ashley Mara ’08 I am humbled and honored to be the new Director of Athletics for Northwest Catholic. Athletics is a unique community that leaves a mark on a student-athlete’s life forever. Our mission at Northwest Catholic is to educate the whole person, mind, body, spirit, and imagination. Athletics covers all aspects of the mission for our student-athletes and promotes wellness in their daily lives. In the always moving and changing lifestyle that our students are living every day, athletics plays a constant role that helps them to grow and to lead through success and adversity. We are fortunate at NWC to have more than 80% of our student population participating in athletics. We are blessed to have the alumni that came before us pave the roads for our current athletes to have the same experiences and even more. These alumni along with our coaches, parents, and current students make up a community of people who are the embodiment of Northwest Catholic.

The positive experiences, relationships, and accomplishments that the Northwest Catholic student-athlete takes away from their four years at Northwest shapes the person each one becomes in the world.

SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

FALL 2018 Football Record: 4-6 Head Coach: Mike Lenz ’91 Seniors: Paris Carpenter ’19, Tyler Connell ’19, Dean Edwards ’19, Marcelino La Bella ’19, Dario Laraia ’19, Thomas Miller ’19, Christopher Sniffin ’19, Pierce Vaughns ’19, Valentino West ’19

 Girls Field Hockey makes a run for the championship.

Boys Soccer

Field Hockey

Captains: Paris Carpenter ’19, Dean Edwards ’19, Dario Laraia ’19, Thomas Miller ’19

Record: 2-11-3

Record: 11-5, Postseason 0-1

MVP: Dario Laraia ’19

Head Coach: Terry Phillip, Sr.

Head Coach: Jeffrey Cahill

Coach’s Award: Thomas Miller ’19

Seniors: Jacob Beaudin ’19, Tyler Esposito ’19, Joseph Janaskiee ’19, Alexander Kamansky ’19

Seniors: Taylor Armstrong ’19, Hope Moustakakis ’19, Meghan O’Shea ’19, Elizabeth Rogers ’19, Elizabeth Vandal ’19

Captains: Tyler Esposito ’19, Brenden Bellinger ’20, Lorenzo Garcia ’20

Captains: Meghan O’Shea ’19, Elizabeth Vandal ’19, Sydney Taylor ’20

MVP: Tyler Esposito ’19

MVP: Meghan O’Shea ’19

Coach’s Award: Alexander Kamansky ’19

Coach’s Award: Elizabeth Vandal ’19

All-Conference: Lorenzo Garcia ’20

All-Conference: Sydney Taylor ’20, Maeve Mullen ’21

All-Conference: Dario Laraia ’19, Skye Dolce ’20, Connor Rich ’20, Evan Thompson ’20, Isaac Riley ’20 All-State: Isaac Riley ’20

Girls Soccer

All-State: Sydney Taylor ’20

Record: 5-9-2

Volleyball

Head Coach: Todd Sadler Seniors: Claire Carew ’19, Olivia Chappano ’19, Madison Coté ’19, Zoe Shapiro ’19  Isaac Riley ’20 and Valentino West ’19

(photo credit Brett Longdin)

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Record: 3-17 Head Coach: Mary Swetcky Seniors: Teagan Dillon ’19, Francesca Discenza ’19, Hannah Dunlavey ’19, Jenna Fahey ’19, Joanna Kuziak ’19,

ATHLETICS Aundraya Pagan ’19, Alexis Smolenski ’19, Sona Torosyan ’19, Lindsey Voelker ’19, Sheena Wolliston ’19

Captains: Annie Alissi ’19, Clare Doyle ’19, Meghan Shea ’19

Captains: Teagan Dillon ’19, Jenna Fahey ’19, Alexis Smolenski ’19, Lindsey Voelker ’19

Coach’s Award: Clare Doyle ’19, Meghan Shea ’19

MVP: Lindsey Voelker ’19 Coach’s Award: Hannah Dunlavey ’19 All-State: Audrey Bonk ’21

Boys Cross Country Record: 1-6 Head Coach: Cory Carlson Seniors: Lukasz Burkacki ’19, Brendan Chan ’19, Joseph DeVito ’19, William Robinson ’19, Michael Stamm ’19, Christian Walker ’19 Captains: Joseph DeVito ’19, William Robinson ’19, Michael Stamm ’19 MVP: Michael Stamm ’19

MVP: Annie Alissi ’19

Cheerleading Head Coach: Courtney Ramos Seniors: Jenny Loveland ’19, Keily Murillo ’19, Jordan Baldwin ’19, Nicole McFarlane ’19, Kris Olivera ’19 Captains: Jenny Loveland ’19, Keily Murillo ’19

Boys Ice Hockey

MVP: Nicole McFarlane ’19

Record: 17-2, 1-1 Postseason

Coach’s Award: Jordan Baldwin ’19

Head Coach: Dan Melanson ’93

WINTER 2018–2019

Seniors: Luke Connal ’19, Tyler Esposito ’19, Michael Kaliff ’19, Sean Macary ’19, Alec Pringle ’19, Nicholas Salcedo ’19, Colby Tuttle ’19

Boys Basketball

Coach’s Award: Joseph DeVito ’19

Record: 9-11, 0-1 Postseason

All-Conference: Michael Stamm ’19

Head Coach: John Mirabello

All-State: Michael Stamm ’19

Seniors: Matthew Bordiere ’19, Nicholas Gomeau ’19, Marcelino La Bella ’19, Dante Mirabello ’19, Jonah Obi ’19

Girls Cross Country

 Erin Carucci ’20

Record: 0-7

Captains: Nicholas Gomeau ’19, Jonah Obi ’19

Head Coach: Cory Carlson

MVP: Matthew Curtis ’22

Seniors: Annie Alissi ’19, Clare Doyle ’19, Meghan Shea ’19

Coach’s Award: Guy Ragland Jr. ’20 All-Conference: Matthew Curtis ’22

Girls Basketball Record: 8-12, 3-1 Postseason Head Coach: Al Phillips Seniors: None Captains: Caroline Rutenberg ’20, Nora Staunton ’20 MVP: Erin Carucci ’20 Coach’s Award: Nora Staunton ’20 All-Conference: Erin Carucci ’20 All-State: Erin Carucci ’20

Captains: Tyler Esposito ’19, Sean Macary ’19, Nicholas Salcedo ’19, Colby Tuttle ’19, Brennan Horn ’20 MVP: Brennan Horn ’20 Coach’s Award: Michael Kaliff ’19 All-Conference: Michael Kaliff ’19, Sean Macary ’19, Brennan Horn ’20 All-State: Sean Macary ’19, Brennan Horn ’20 All-Courant Player of the Year: Brennan Horn ’20

Girls Ice Hockey Record: 2-17-1 Head Coach: John Alissi Seniors: Annie Alissi ’19, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Meghan Sisk ’19 Captains: Annie Alissi ’19, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Meghan Sisk ’19 MVP: Annie Alissi ’19, Meghan McClellan (Mercy) Coach’s Award: Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Meghan Sisk ’19

 Brendan Chan ’19

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LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 57

ATHLETICS Swimming Record: 1-6 Head Coach: Tammi Haynes Seniors: Michael Baldini ’19, Ethan Cheffer ’19, Jackson Ringquist ’19, Elizabeth Rogers ’19, Matthew Shea ’19, Meghan Shea ’19 Captains: Ethan Cheffer ’19, Elizabeth Rogers ’19, Meghan Shea ’19 MVP: Michael Baldini ’19 Coach’s Award: Meghan Shea ’19 All-Conference: Michael Baldini ’19, Ethan Cheffer ’19, Jackson Ringquist ’19, Matthew Shea ’19 All-State: Michael Baldini ’19 Class S Swimmer of the Year: Michael Baldini ’19

Boys Indoor Track Head Coach: Will Sanders ’05 Seniors: Paris Carpenter ’19, Samuel Deveau ’19, Rui Shi ’19, Michael Stamm ’19 Captains: Samuel Deveau ’19, Michael Stamm ’19 MVP: Michael Stamm ’19 Coach’s Award: Lorenzo Garcia ’20 All-Conference: Lorenzo Garcia ’20 All-State: Samuel Deveau ’19, Brandon Drummond ’20, Michael Stamm ’19, Justin Tavares ’21

 The Baseball Team at Dunkin’ Donuts Park.

Girls Indoor Track

SPRING 2019

Head Coach: Will Sanders ’05 Seniors: Sheena Wolliston ’19, Kiana Woods ’19 Captains: Sheena Wolliston ’19, Kiana Woods ’19 MVP: Kiana Woods ’19 Coach’s Award: Sheena Wolliston ’19

Cheerleading Head Coach: Courtney Ramos Seniors: Keily Murillo ’19, Nicole McFarlane ’19, Jordan Baldwin ’19, Ashley Ponce ’19

Baseball Record: 6-10 Head Coach: Cory Carlson Seniors: Benjamin Manzi ’19, Dante Mirabello ’19, Chase Rancourt ’19, James Sabia ’19, Patrick Walsh ’19, Andrew Wendorff ’19 Captains: Benjamin Manzi ’19, Chase Rancourt ’19, Patrick Walsh ’19 MVP: Chase Rancourt ’19 Coach’s Award: Benjamin Manzi ’19 All-Conference: Chase Rancourt ’19

Captains: Keily Murillo ’19, Nicole McFarlane ’19 MVP: Emily Drain ’21 Coach’s Award: Luciante Dulaire ’21

Softball Record: 4-16 Head Coach: Rick Smith Seniors: Francesca Discenza ’19, Elena Murphy ’19, Samantha Scott ’19, Alexis Smolenski ’19 Captains: Francesca Discenza ’19, Samantha Scott ’19, Alexis Smolenski ’19, Allison Tessman ’20 MVP: Samantha Scott ’19 Coach’s Award: Alexis Smolenski ’19 All-Conference: Samantha Scott ’19, Allison Tessman ’20, Taylor Popella ’21

 Annie Alissi ’19

58 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

 Winter Cheerleaders at the pep rally.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

ATHLETICS Boys Tennis Record: 1-15 Head Coach: Jeff Cahill Seniors: Joseph Janaskiee ’19 Captains: Joseph Janaskiee ’19, Gabriel Landi ’20 MVP: Joseph Janaskiee ’19 Coach’s Award: Zilin Liu ’22 All-Conference: Joseph Janaskiee ’19

Girls Tennis Record: 7-10 Head Coach: Stan Piorkowski  Sean Macary ’19

Boys Lacrosse

Seniors: Olivia Chappano ’19, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Elizabeth O’Neil ’19, Pawta Shu ’19

Record: 7-9, 1-1 Postseason

Captains: Olivia Chappano ’19, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Elizabeth O’Neil ’19

Head Coach: Peter Vlahakis

MVP: Elizabeth O’Neil ’19

Seniors: Dean Edwards ’19, Tyler Esposito ’19, Joseph Flammini ’19, Sean Macary ’19, James Nicholas ’19, William Robinson ’19

Coach’s Award: Elizabeth Murphy ’19

Captain: James Nicholas ’19 MVP: James Nicholas ’19 Coach’s Award: Dean Edwards ’19 All-Conference: Sean Macary ’19, Nicolo Mazzocca ’20, Brennan Horn ’20 All-State: Nicolo Mazzocca ’20, Brennan Horn ’20

Girls Lacrosse Record: 8-8, Postseason 0-1 Head Coach: Ashley Mara ’08 Seniors: Claire Carew ’19, Meghan O’Shea ’19, Meghan Sisk ’19

 Joseph

Janaskiee ’19

Girls Outdoor Track Record: 0-7 Head Coach: Will Sanders ’05 Seniors: Sophia Argay ’19, Victoria Panagakos ’19, Sheena Wolliston ’19, Kiana Woods ’19 Captains: Sheena Wolliston ’19, Kiana Woods ’19 MVP: Kiana Woods ’19 Coach’s Award: Sophia Boudreaux ’20

Boys Golf

Boys Outdoor Track Record: 0-7 Head Coach: Will Sanders ’05 Seniors: Lukasz Burkacki ’19, Paris Carpenter ’19, Loren Davis ’19, Samuel Deveau ’19, Nicholas Finno ’19, Garret Griffith ’19, Thomas Rizzo ’19, Christopher Sniffin ’19, Michael Stamm ’19, Matthew Villani ’19 Captains: Sam Deveau ’19, Michael Stamm ’19, Christopher Sniffin ’19 MVP: Skye Dolce ’20 Coach’s Award: Matthew Deneen ’21

Record: 13-5 Head Coach: Scott Fletcher Seniors: Michael Baldini ’19, Ethan Cheffer ’19, Justin Mathew ’19, Matthew Shea ’19 Captain: Justin Mathew ’19 MVP: Justin Mathew ’19 Coach’s Award: Michael Baldini ’19 All-Conference: Justin Mathew ’19, Michael Baldini ’19 All-State: Justin Mathew ’19

All-Conference: Skye Dolce ’20

Girls Golf Record: 12-3-1

Captains: Claire Carew ’19, Meghan O’Shea ’19, Meghan Sisk ’19

Head Coach: Jeff Przech ’93 Seniors: Taylor Armstrong ’19, Madison Desrosiers ’19, Hadley Waterbury ’19, Mikayla Zordan ’19

MVP: Claire Carew ’19 Coach’s Award: Meghan Sisk ’19 All-Conference: Claire Carew ’19, Meghan O’Shea ’19, Nora Staunton ’20

Captain: Jenna Fahey ’19

All-State: Claire Carew ’19

Coach’s Award: Caroline Mugno ’22

MVP: Jenna Fahey ’19

 Nora Staunton ’20

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

All-Conference: Jenna Fahey ’19, Keagan Ostop ’20 LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 59

Sacrifice

Self-Discipline

Respect Dedication commitment Healthy Living

Loyalty

Pride

Support

Unity

Spirituality

Friendship

Dependability

60 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

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ATHLETICS

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

by Elizabeth Murphy ’19, Northwest News Sports Editor

Megh an O’Shea ’19

J ulia N icholas ’21 Pa r is C

against girls soccer team played ch, hot ben the on Berlin with no subs cu lt diffi d an er, and hu mid weath ond goal sec the red sco ia competition. Jul game the ich sent to tie the game 2-2, wh al fin d an second into overtime. In the ing nn wi e the gam overtime, Julia scored ach Co . ing ain rem goal with 2.7 seconds did an amazing lia “Ju d, sai ler Sad dd To starting the m fro job of transitioning ving up front to mo to er game as a defend e. She showed great get us back in the gam se her initia l shot determination becau ck with it and poked didn’t go in, but she stu forgettable win.” in the winner for an un

a r pen

ter ’19

The 

the field hockey game against rival school East Catholic, Meghan scored two goals. She had an outstanding performance and played a crucial role in helping her teammates succeed. With her hard work and encoura gement, Northwest beat East 7-2! Coach Cahill said, “Even when Meghan’s efforts do not show up in the box score, she does so much to set up her teammates for scoring opportunities. Meghan’s accomplishments this season are confirming why she was one of only 35 players statewide to play in last year’s CT Junior Select Game.”

In 

Joanna Kuziak

 Paris pla yed a vit al football team’s firs role in the t win of th Northwe e season. st played under th at Avon H e lights igh Scho ol and sh out 33-0 ut them . Paris sc ored two touchdow stunning ns to help the team first win. get their Fellow te ammate Miller ’1 Thomas 9 said, “P aris is a h who is d ard work edicated er to the team pushes u and s to keep focused a Paris’s se nd on ta lf-discipli sk. ne and d are unm edication atched o u t on the an extrem field. He ely loyal is and supp always lo ortive gu oking ou y, t fo and mak r the team ing sure ’s needs e v e r fun on a yone is h nd off th aving e field.”

’19

 She may be #7 on the court, but Joan na Kuziak is a #1 Joanna had 12 ki athlete! lls in the girls volle yball game again Her teammate H st New Britain. annah Dunlavey said, “Joanna is a both on and of f th great friend e court. She is alw ays in a good moo been keeping the d and has team positive thro ughout our season keeps her team de . Joanna termined despite di fficult opponents.”

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 61

ATHLETICS

Lorenzo Garcia ’20  At

centerback, Lorenzo led the defense for the all boys soccer team. He also helped the offense by being the second top goal scorer. Fellow teammate and captain Tyler Esposito ’19 said, “Lorenzo is the type of guy you can always trust to be there for you. Whether it’s at an 8am Saturday practice, recovering for a coverage you blew in a game, or just a guy to provide moral support, Loren zo is alway s there. There aren’t many with the athletic ability of Lorenzo and even fewer who are a better teammate and friend.”

Micha el Sta mm ’19 Championship cross country meet Stamm ran a huge race in the All-State he’s out 16:49 and third place overall! Even when for Class SS, coming in with a time of mates team his up cheerful and positive spirit lifts of breath from his own race, Stamm’s ing work hard mely Carlson said, “Mike is an extre and helps them keep running. Coach ram prog the in kids ger youn a great mentor to the individual who leads by example. He’s n.” seaso this him for have really paid off and his hard work and determination

Michael 

Sarah Lamberty ’21  Sarah

Lambert y scored the firs t field hockey goal aga first round of the state inst New Fairfield in their tournament. The team ultimately lost 5-2, bu up a good fight. Sarah t the girls put stepped up when her tea m needed it whether it goals, assists, or encou be with ragement. She is not on ly a ver y strong and fas also exceptionally strate t player but gic on the field. Coach Cahill said, “Sarah wa goal scorer this season s our leading with 16 goals in 17 gam es, including a big gam in our tournament gam e-t ying goal e at New Fairfield. Sh e was among the top fiv in the CCC (15 teams e scorers ) and a big reason why we were able to finish th standings. Sarah could 5 in the have scored even more, but she played ver y un and often looked for an selfishly open teammate before taking a shot.”

r a in ’2 Emily D  As a freshman, cheerleader Emily Drain was a base, but this year, she changed roles and became a flyer. One thing you may not know about Emily is that she has a fear of heights, but she is so dedicated to her team that she confront s her fears to help her team and is lifted up into the air! Captain Jenny Lovelan d ’19, said, “Emily has always been a vital team member. Her ability to try new skills and cheer on her teammates are the qualities a cheerleader should always have.

She always has a good attitude and is prepared for tough practice s.”

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1

ATHLETICS

Caroline Rutenberg ’20  Back

from injury and better than ever, Caroline Rutenberg put up 18 points in the girls’ basketball game against Conard. In a close game, the Lions came out on top, beating the Conard Chieftains 59-56. Their win was in part becau se of Caroline’s talent. She is one of the team’s best shooters on the offensive side and hustles back to guard the opponent on defense. With skill on both ends of the court, Carol ine has proved to be a large reason for the team’s success. Grace Morgantha ler ’22 said, “Not only is Rut a great basketball player but she’s also an awesome captain. She’s consta ntly giving everyone high fives and has been really helpful to us freshmen.”

Br ia nn a McDer

mott ’20

 Having lost to Ridgefield-Danbury in the first game of the season, Northwest-Mercy ice hockey team knew how important the second game would be. Brianna McDermott rose to the occasion. The determined goalie played an incredible game in net. Brianna made over 16 saves and helped lead the girls to a 2-1 victory. Captain Annie Alissi ’19 said, “Bri is a dedicated player and a fun girl to be around. In challenging times, we can always count on Bri to lighten the mood. As the goalie, she’s a big part of our team, and she’s really supportive of all the girls on the ice.”

arcia ’20 Lorenzo G

 Kiana Woods ran the 55 meter dash and finished in 7.63 seconds in the pre liminary round and in just 7.52 seconds in the finals at the CCC Girls Indoor track + field championshi p in New Haven, CT. Her time was only 0.01 seconds off from her per sonal best time running a 55m. Sh e finished in 5th place ove rall in the meet and sets a great example for the other run ners of how hard work and dedica tion pay off. She is a very loyal and positive teammate, alw ays seen and heard cheerin g on the other runners when she is not competing.

Kiana W oods ’19

 At

the Boys CCC Indoor track + field championship Lorenzo qualified for the 55 meter hurdle race and finished in 3rd place with a time of 8.10 seconds. He also placed 5th in the boys long jump competition. In addition to his outstanding individual accomplishments, Lorenzo ran with his relay team (Brandon Drummond ’20, Justin Tavares ’21, and Sam DeVeau ’19) and helpedlead them in the 4x2 all the way to 4th place! Lorenzo supports his team not only on his own but also with his relay teammates, and it is clear he has a passion for running.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 63

ATHLETICS

ulaire ’21 D e t n ia c Lu

past weekend the cheerleaders represented the Lions at the Compete for a Cure Competition. Lulu Dulaire ’21 not only supported her team from the foundation of the pyramid, but also spread her passion and heart to the audience as well.

She kept spirits high and positive as the squad went out to perform for the competition.

Coach Courtney Ramos said, “Lulu Dulaire is a main base!” In their outstanding competition routine, Lulu was the foundation of the pyramid, lifting and holding up the flyer in a single base lib. Lulu was also the center dancer because of her wonderful th stunting skills. With Lulu at the team’s core, the cheerleaders placed 4 out of eight competition. the of teams in the most competitive division

This 

Siobh a n Rush in ’22

ns o i L Go

Jonah Obi ’19

case you missed it, Jonah Obi had an amazing dunk off a pass off the backboard from teammate Nick Gomeau ’19 during Senior Night.

The dunk pumped up the crowd and his teammates, which sparked energy moving toward the end of the game. The boys beat Southington on Monday, and Obi had 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks! Coach Mirabello said, “Jonah is the consummate team player. He is unselfish, works very hard, and is a terrific teammate. He has been playing the best basketball of his career during this final stretch of the season. It has been great coaching Jonah as he has been a big part of our program for four years.”

In 

 In an ove rtime thri ller Siobh Rushin st an epped up and made ba skets to crucial help lead the tea m the sem ifi to na l rou n d of the G Basketba irls ll Class S State Tou Last winte rnament. r saw a hu ge impro from a w vement inless sea son the p year, and revious the star fr eshman S has playe iobhan d an imp ortant ro team’s su le in this ccess. In their last game, she playoff had 8 poin ts in the w over East in Hampton (ranked # Her flawle 4). ssly execu ted free th helped bri rows ng the un d erdog Lio (ranked # ns 28) to the lead in th minutes o e final f regular time and the team give some mo mentum into overti going me. The g irls beat E Hampton ast in overtim e 49 to 44 .

Michael Kaliff ’19  In

the boys hockey game against Notre-Dame, Michael Kaliff took over 30 shots in net.

Throughout each period, Kaliff made clutch saves to keep the Lions in the game.

He had an amazing season as starting goaltender with five shutouts, including one against New Canaan to lead the team to the semifinals at Yale. Overall, Kaliff’s outstanding saves helped the team gain seventeen wins this season. He is a leader on the team. Captain Tyler Esposito ’19 said, “Having Mike in net is like having an extra life because he has the ability to make one or two big saves to keep the team in the game. Mike’s also a great locker room guy who can always get the boys buzzing and laughing.”

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ATHLETICS

Nico Mazzocca ’20 Mazzocca ’20 has led the boys lacrosse team this season. Against Tolland, Nico scored 7 goals to drive the Lions to a victory 15 to 8. Against RHAM the starting forward put up 2 goals and 4 assists and pushed NWC on top 8 to 5.

But perhaps his best performance of the season so far was against Southington.

Nico’s pivotal goal sent the boys into overtime and he finished the game with 4 goals and an assist. Captain James Nicholas ’19 said, “When Nico is in his right mind, he is unstoppable. I look forward to watching him develop the rest of the year and someday into a college player.”

Nico 

Kenzi Lee ’20 the girls tennis match against Woodstock Academy on Tuesday, Kenzi Lee came to play. After Isabel Mortillaro ’20, Elizabeth Murphy ’19, and doubles team Isa Krocheski ’20 and Kelsi Goodison ’20 won their matches, the star third singles player became a comeback kid as she battled back from being down nearly the entire match. Kenzi fought back from 2-5 in the first set to win it 6-5. Captain Elizabeth Murphy ’19 said, “Kenzi is a fighter. I admire how she puts so much passion and effort into her game. When she is playing, I can hear her down the courts cheering for everyone and brings a lot of spunk to practices. We know we can count on Kenzi to pick up the team’s spirits to push on and finish our matches strong.”

In 

Support the NWC Athletics Booster Club!

To join the NWC Athletics Booster Club, please visit

NorthwestCatholic.org/ AthleticsBoosterClub For more information, please contact Athletic Director Ashley Mara ’08 at amara@nwcath.org.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

LOGOS 2018 – 2019 • 65

ATHLETICS DI, DII, DIII SIGNINGS

Northwest Catholic Sends 11 Students to Play College Sports

Jackson Ringquist ’19 (swimming at Iona College), Michael Baldini ’19 (swimming at Georgetown University), Claire Carew ’19 (soccer at College of the Holy Cross), Marcelino La Bella ’19 (football at Salve Regina University), Jonah Obi ’19 (basketball at Colby College), Meghan O’Shea ’19 (field hockey at Bryn Mawr College), Chase Rancourt ’19 (baseball at Nichols College), James Nicholas ’19 (lacrosse at Vassar College), Samantha Scott ’19 (softball at Southern CT State University), Sheena Wolliston ’19 (track & field at Union College), not pictured: Matthew Shea ’19 (swimming at College of the Holy Cross)

 Michael Baldini ’19

was named CIAC Class S All State Swimmer of the Year.

Baldini is swimming for Division 1 Georgetown University.

 Michael Shea ’19 is

swimming for Division 1 College of the Holy Cross.

 Jackson Ringquist ’19 is swimming for Division 1 Iona College.

66 • LOGOS 2018 – 2019

 Claire Carew ’19 is playing soccer for

Division 1 College of the Holy Cross.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

ATHLETICS

NWC Inducts Five Alumni to its Athletic Hall of Fame Wampanoag Country Club was abuzz with laughter and hugs as Northwest Catholic alumni and their family and friends gathered to honor five new inductees into the Northwest Catholic Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame. Gerard Pilkington ’69, Ellen Rodgers Fox ’85, Sean Gant ’85, Tricia Murray Parris ’96, and Christopher J. Thorner ’02 were the honored inductees.

After friends, old and new, reconnected during a lively cocktail hour, guests who had come to celebrate these legends in Northwest Catholic athletic history enjoyed dinner and inspiring tributes.

The most senior among the inductees, Gerry Pilkington ’69, was the first to receive his award. In his acceptance speech, Pilkington set the evening’s theme of gratitude in motion. These five alumni from four different decades at Northwest Catholic, who had continued their education at five different universities, who had followed different careers paths and landed in different parts of the country, all shared a similar message — give thanks to those who hold you up.

Pilkington, one of Football Coach Walter Stosuy’s “Cardiac Kids,” helped Northwest Catholic win its first Conference Championship in 1968. Listing scores during pivotal matches against opponents like Pulaski High School in New Britain and Penney in East Hartford, Pilkington brought the crowd back 50 years. When he spoke of a memorable 23–22 win against East Catholic, the crowd knew history matters and memories from high school endure.

After reflecting on the 1968 winning season, Pilkington asked the central question: “Who are the real heroes tonight?” His answer: “The defense. The guys who kept us upright.” Pilkington continued, “They’re not here getting a plaque tonight, but every time I look at this award, I will think of them.” He listed names from half a century ago — Griffin, Gillette, Lyons, Grimes, and the list went on. Pilkington’s message was clear — his fellow players get the credit tonight, and he is deeply grateful for his teammates, the guys who held him up.

A spirit of humility continued when former NWC Soccer Coach and Teacher Edward Noonan introduced the second inductee, Ellen Rodgers Fox ’85. Fox opened her speech with Meister Eckhart’s famous quote: “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough." Fox honored her mother, her six sisters, her brother, her husband and sons. She also asked the central question: Who are the real heroes? And hers were her siblings, who she said she quietly observed and emulated so she could become the athlete she was and the person she is. Fox acknowledged how family holds us up and remembered God in all of it, sports included, closing with:

“At Northwest Catholic, we played with all our heart.”

Former NWC Athletic Director and Football Coach John Shukie introduced the next inductee, Sean Gant, also from the Class of 1985.

Like Pilkington, Shukie listed matches and scores and yards and touchdowns. He recalled the specifics of Gant’s 97 yard run as

 Northwest Catholic Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame inducted five members

on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at Wampanoag Country Club in West Hartford. From left: Christopher J. Thorner ’02, Tricia Murray Parris ’96, Ellen Rodgers Fox ’85, Gerard Pilkington ’69, and Sean Gant ’85.

a sophomore in a game where NWC lost. You can imagine his memory for the games Northwest won. In a heartfelt conclusion, Shukie admitted, “If someone said I could go back to 1984 and coach Sean and his teammates again, I would.”

Like Pilkington and Fox, Sean Gant ’85 gave thanks to everyone who guided and supported him. He reminded the audience, “God puts people in your life at just the right time. The trick is to know what to do with the lessons they teach you.” Gant listed many teammates’ names from 33 years ago and acknowledged that he would never have had the chance to run all those yards if not for the players clearing the way.

When it was time for Tricia Murray Parris ’96 to receive her award, the crowd knew what was coming — gratitude for every opportunity afforded her. This star soccer player from the Class of 1996 spoke of the School’s motto where you know you belong, explaining how true these five simple words were for her. Parris said, “I belonged in both the classroom and on the soccer field at Northwest.” She continued, “I carried the lessons I learned at Northwest Catholic to Princeton, into work, into marriage, and into parenting.”

To close the evening, Patrick Connors ’80, former football coach and NWC alumnus, introduced Chris Thorner ’02. Although students at NWC 22 years apart, Pat reflected fondly on how the two men became friends on Brewer Field, and how they remain friends today. Thorner, who went on to play football for Syracuse, thanked his mother and sister for traveling to his games, and to his wife and three children, who are “everything” to him.

Northwest Catholic launched its Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame 14 years ago. To read a complete list of the inductees to Northwest Catholic’s Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame, visit NorthwestCatholic.org/HallofFame.

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ALUMNI NEWS 1960s Paul Castagno, PhD ’68 was honored at the Oslo International Acting Festival (OIAF) for his work to advance the theory and practice of polyvocal playwriting.

Paul received the festival’s prestigious Pedagogical Award, which recognized an educator’s lifetime contribution to pedagogy and practice in theatre.

Dr. Castagno teaches theater at the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

“What a tremendous honor!” After working for 38 years as a senior vice-president in sales at the Hartford Insurance Group, Steve retired to northern NH. He recently built a log cabin on the First Connecticut Lake and is on a quest for the elusive lake trout found there. Steve continues to volunteer in his community.

1970s Danielle Weatherby Abrams ’76 and her husband F.M. celebrated their 40th anniversary on August 18, 2019. Danielle and F.M. were high school sweethearts and went to Danielle’s junior and senior NWC proms together!

Balkun ’74 is an artist whose woodcarvings were on exhibit at The Clare Gallery last fall. The show was titled Homage to Saint Joseph. Saint Joseph is the patron saint of craftsmen. The show included an artist talk and hands-on workshop. Steve’s three children are also NWC alumni — Mark ’03, Stephen ’05, and Nick ’08.

 Steve

Rees Gavin ’67 was recently presented the Primary Care Leadership Award for her Outstanding Contributions to Community Service and Advocacy.

Corsillo ’68 is the co-owner and art director of a design studio in New Haven.

In July, George’s More is More show was on display at Kehler Liddell Gallery and included his album covers of Grease, The Original Movie Soundtrack as well as his covers for Pat Benatar, Bon Jovi, Luther Vandross, and John Mellencamp.

The collection also included his book jacket of the Pulitzer Prize-winning Lonesome Dove.

The show included an artist talk, a panel discussion with “Team Doonesbury,” and a conversation between George and Gary Trudeau.

Allen 

 Molly

 George

Bill Eckert ’65 recently received boxes of socks donated during NWC’s Day of Giving. Bill volunteers for Houston’s Bay Area Homeless Services where every year more than 350 individuals find shelter, case management, and employment opportunities. Bill wrote, “Know that the seeds of social responsibility sown at NWC during those early years have taken root and spread to South Texas.”

Steve Ellis ’65 recently celebrated his 50th Reunion from Saint Anselm College in NH. After he graduated, Steve served on the board of trustees for 21 years. His commitment to Saint Anselm and other volunteer work was recognized at graduation this past May when the school presented him with an honorary doctorate degree in business. Steve said,

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Latham ’65 moved to Wilmington, NC in 2005. Ten years later he moved aboard an old 27’ Bristol sailboat with his K9 American, Max. In 2018 Allen upgraded to a 33’ sailboat. Allen plans to get north and far away from hurricane season. (He weathered three hurricanes in the last three years!) He said, “I am planning to go south for the upcoming winter. After that it’s anyone's guess.”

Susan Whalen McKeown ’66 will graduate in January with an MFA in nonfiction writing from Southern New Hampshire University. Her second book, Beyond the Tango–A Couple's Guide to Preventing Divorce during the Chaotic Years of Careers, Kids, and Keeping House, is due out next year.

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Bourret ’73 was recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the College Sports Information Directors of America. Although “retired,” Tim continues to work part-time for Clemson Athletics.

He is the color commentator for Clemson’s football and basketball radio network and is a scorer and research assistant for NBC Sports.  Tim

ALUMNI NEWS Callahan ’73 traveled to Fatima and Medjugorje last year with members from his parish St. Michael the Archangel in Auburn, AL. Jim said, “I’ve always wanted to visit Fatima, my core miracle of faith.” Jim was a student in Religions of the World at NWC. He said, "I have met so many others from so many different faiths that being educated on their religion as well as my own has been a blessing…I seem to be a leader of many impromptu discussions. I've tried showing my faith by example.” Jim owns Callahan Aircraft Services, LLC. He is married to Cecyle and together they have four children.  Jim

 Amy Hughes ’71 and Joanne Graham ’71

while visiting on Block Island, in July 2019.

McGarry ’79 is a black belt martial arts instructor at Villari's Martial Arts in Natick, MA. With the help of his 11 year old daughter, also a black belt, he heads up the martial arts program at the YMCA Metrowest. Devin is a Reiki Master and practices Qigong. He has worked for Louis Roederer Champagne since 1994.

He is married to Samantha and also has a 14 year old son Gabriel.  Devin

John Flannery ’79 is the new Advisory Director of Charlesbank Capital Partners, LLC. John was most recently the chairman and Chief Executive Officer at General Electric.

Morgan ’79 is returning for his third season with The Sunsationals, The Connecticut Sun WNBA team's Senior Dance Team. They perform at games and events throughout the year representing the Connecticut Sun.  Michael

Palm ’74 was elected in 2018 as State Representative for the 36th Connecticut General Assembly District, which includes the Connecticut River towns of Essex, Deep River, Haddam, and Chester.

Palm ran on a platform of environmental protection, women's rights, gun safety, and better healthcare options.

As an elected official, Palm enjoys working frequently with her friend, U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney ’71. In 2018 she founded Sexual Harassment Prevention, LLC, through which she gives mandated trainings to the corporate, academic, and non-profit world.

Palm is still in touch with many of her NWC teachers, including Lee Paquette, Dan Marcus, and Charlie Farrow. Christine lives in Chester with her husband, the painter James Baker. They have four sons Seamus, Colin, Daniel, and James.



Christine

Jim Turner ’74 is a senior Vice President at UBS Financial Services and lives in Bedminster, NJ with his wife of 34 years, Janice. Janice is an equestrian, his son Jeff is a biomedical engineer, and his son Andrew is Jim’s partner at UBS. His daughter Renee is a senior at Villanova. James enjoys a golfing vacation and is a long-time attendee at the NWC Golf Tournament every June.

He welcomes contact from classmates at jim. turner@ubs.com.

Haris-Williams ’77 (second from right) with her children Raymond, Regina, and Matthew at Gail’s 60th birthday Soul Train 70s party!

 Gail

 Susan

Grimes ’74, Dolores (Mathis) Pertillar ’74, Carla Patrick ’74, and Ida D. McGhee ’74 recently met for lunch in Waterford, CT.

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ALUMNI NEWS 1980s  Kerry Cronin, PhD ’83 is the Associate Director of the Boston College Perspectives Program and the Faculty Fellow of BC's Center for Student Formation.

For the past 20 years, she has taught in the Boston College interdisciplinary Perspectives Program and works with undergraduates in retreat programs.

Kerry is a regular speaker on college campuses, addressing topics of student culture and formation.

1990s K. Baptiste ’98 was promoted to Training Lieutenant in the Hartford Fire Department where her father retired from three years ago as a pump operator and where her oldest son Shane has worked as a firefighter for the last two years.

 Candia

Budds Tsipouras ’99 is UConn Health Center’s breast nurse navigator, helping patients make their way through the health care maze. She was recently featured in Seasons’s Fast-track Back to Health.

 Molly

Joseph Fulliero II ’99 is an environmental and sustainability manager for Shire Human Genetic Therapies in Lexington, MA. Joseph graduated Keene State in 2003 with a BS in Safety and UMass Lowell in 2006 with an MS in Industrial Hygiene.

Wiggins Lyles ’99 recently rejoined Democracy Prep Public Schools as the vice president of external affairs.

Democracy Prep is a national charter school network serving 6,500 students across NYC, Camden, Baton Rouge, San Antonio, and Las Vegas. Princess is responsible for all external matters, including student enrollment, family engagement, governmental affairs, strategic partnerships, media/communications, and fundraising/ development. Before starting her career in education, Princess served as a corporate attorney with the law firm of Shipman & Goodwin LLP. Princess lives in Harlem with her husband Ernie and daughters Milan and Nina.

2000s Conway Chatterjee ’07 graduated in June with her MBA from Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business. She is now a digital strategy consultant at IBM. Liz and her husband live in Boston.

 Liz

 Princess

McKenney ’80 is the fundraising/ communications manager at AIDS Delaware.

Along with all communications, Iris manages AIDS Delaware's events, including the annual AIDS Walk Delaware. Iris recently completed a 200-hour certified yoga instructor course.

 Iris

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Dr. Danielle Lawrence-Montague Moye, PhD ’04 was recently featured in an article How to Move on From a Best Friend Breakup in Oprah Magazine.

ALUMNI NEWS Pearson ’02 is a parole counselor for the CT Department of Corrections. Clive earned a BA in Criminology from Central CT State University and an MA in Human Resource Development from American International College. After graduate school, Clive began working as a social worker for the Department of Children and Families, advocating and protecting abused and neglected children. Today as a correctional counselor, Clive works inside the prison, facilitating various treatment programs to assist with successful reintegration into the community. For the past 15 years, Clive has also worked part-time with individuals with mental and physical disorders in the residential program at Connecticut Institute for the Blind/Oak Hill.

Haley Massie Chakalos ’11 recently graduated with an MS in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan University.

She was honored with the Maximizing Human Performance Award. Haley has a BS in Biology from Stonehill College.

 Clive

Swetcky ’03 is an assistant professor of theater at Penn State. He is the technical director and production manager for Home, which toured the world with a stop at Yale University Theater in June.

 Chris

Jack Wagoner ’07 was recently sworn into the Manchester, NH Police Department. Jack earned his Associate’s in 2009 from Petersburg College and his BS in Criminal Justice from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2011. After graduating, Jack pursued a professional baseball career and was a pitcher for the Cleveland Indians as well as several independent professional teams before deciding on a career in law enforcement.

 Fran Rogers ’04 sings the National Anthem at the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Red Sox games.

Last fall he performed for an audience of over 12 million on ESPN’s Monday Night Football.

2010s Lee Alexander ’10 created the digital exhibit featured on the Google home page in February to launch Black History Month. Kerri Lee is an education and public history fellow for the National Women's History Museum. She is also a PhD student in History at Howard University, where she serves as a teaching associate. Kerri Lee earned her BS in Arts Administration from Wagner College and an MA in Theological Studies from Princeton Theological Seminary.

Connelly ’12 has worked for the National Park Service at Yosemite, Cuyahoga Valley, and Glacier Bay for the past two years. She is currently a park ranger at Arches National Park in Moab, UT and studies wilderness management in graduate school.

Kat 

 Kerri

Jourdan Smith ’01 is the global creative director of Amazon Alexa Hardware.

He is also a founding partner in the new FlyAvia iOS app, which allows private jet owners and operators to sell dead-legs.

His sister-business to FlyAvia is Quantam Jets, now the second largest broker of private jets in California.

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Dodds ’14 graduated from the University of Scranton in May 2018.

He joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and worked in the Don Bosco Cristo Rey School in Tacoma, MD. He lived at the Ramos House in Washington, DC with six other Jesuit Volunteers. Tim (third from the right) pictured with housemates.

 Tim

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ALUMNI NEWS

Weddings

Dodds ’08 and Allison Hannon were married in Pittsburgh last July.

The couple met at Duquesne University and graduated in 2012.  Will

Hickey ’09 and Heather Modenese were married last June at St. Thomas Church in Thomaston followed by a reception at The Lyceum in Terryville. Back row: Mary-Beth Cooke Fairchild ’76, Stephen Sweeney ’76, Kathy Dunn Bassett ’79, Mary Dunn Miner ’79, Amy Randall Lynch ’78, Elaine Blondin Mello ’65, Craig Hickey ’83, Sharon Sweeney Bruce ’84, Sally Scully ’77, Maura Eagan ’09, Mike Conway ’09, Maura Graham’09, Drew Kearns ’79, Maura McNally Kearns ’79, Jim Scully ’79, Lynn Hickey Kovolski ’72, Father Joseph Crowley. Front row: Shevon Sweeney Hickey ’79 (mother of groom), Ryan Dowd ’09(best man), Tom Hickey ’78 (father of groom), Garrett Hickey ’09 (groom), Dan Lynch ’09 (groomsman), Andi Dombek Lynch ’09, Casey Lynch ’10, and Caitlin Kearns ’09 (bridesmaid).  Garrett

Hatch ’13 made BuiltWorlds’ list of top 50 leaders of innovative technology adoption in 2018 because of his work with Imajion, the mixed reality company he cofounded in 2016.

 Adrian

Shania Lapsey ’18 received the 2018 Nina Poeta Trail of Glitter CT Cheerleader Award and Scholarship. She was presented the award and scholarship by John and Dorie Poeta, parents of Nina Poeta, who passed away in 2014 from a brain tumor. Shania was chosen for her kindness, enthusiasm, leadership, and community service.

Stay in the loop!

Update your email and mailing address at NorthwestCatholic. org/alumni/stay-connected.

Gillespie ’13 and Connor Reck were married in June 2019. From left: Deacon Richard Santos ’82, Renee Roberts Santos ’81, Jacqui Denver ’13, Connor Reck, Sarah Gillespie ’13, Gabrielle Giangreco ’13, Kristi Gillespie, Ellie Hart ’76, Claudia Hart ’78, Terrie Giegel Bournique ’84.  Sarah

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 Cara Ledwidge ’12 and David Lawton ’11

were married in January at Saint Mary's Star of the Sea in Unionville, CT followed by a reception at Elizabeth Park in West Hartford. Cara and David met on Mr. Ken's bus in 2008! Allison Kerwin ’07 (sister of the groom), Catherine Lawton, Megan Baker ’12 (best friend of the bride), Caroline Davenport ’12 (best friend of the bride), Mary Lucey, Brynna Ledwidge ’17 (sister of the bride), Cara Ledwidge Lawton ’12 (bride), David Lawton ’11

ALUMNI NEWS

BABIES (groom), Kyle Girard, Kevin Lawton, Keelan Ledwidge ’10 (brother of the bride), and Neal Kerwin.

’08 and John Cline were married in November in Frederick, MD. They live in California and work at Stanford University and Google, respectively.

Taylor Knortz ’08 and Stephanie Frazao ’08 were in attendance.

Purple ’11 and Peter Gohn were married in June at the Church of St. Ann in Avon, CT. They met as undergraduates at Catholic University and graduated together in 2015. Sarah earned her Master’s in Theology at the Augustine Institute.

She and Peter live in Charlotte, NC where he works in marketing and she teaches theology at Charlotte Catholic High School.

 Sarah

 Julianne McAndrews

Mary Ellen Sullivan Connors ’68 and her husband Larry welcomed their 4th grandchild Theodore Lawrence this year. He joins his cousins Thomas, Mary, and Colleen.

Egan ’76 welcomed his first grandchild Henry James Fernandes on May 18, 2019. Bill works at Perspecta, Inc. and lives in West Melbourne, FL with his wife of 32 years, Cindy. They have two children, Alicia (Paul Fernandes) and Shawn (Nicole Fiorey). From left to right: son Shawn, daughter-in-law Niki, Bill, son-in-law Paul, Henry James, daughter Alicia, wife Cindy.  Bill

Reilly ’02 and Elizabeth Holman were married in February in Washington DC. Pictured are James Reilly ’05, Janice Reilly (mother of the groom), Tim Reilly ’02 and his bride Elizabeth Reilly, Joe Reilly (father of the groom), and Kristen Reilly ’12.

Also in attendance was Mike Yagmin ’02.

Tim 

O’Hara ’07 and Julia Telfer were married in September 2018. John’s sisters Elizabeth O’Hara ’15 and Kathleen O’Hara ’11 and his parents are pictured.

John is a lawyer in Washington, DC and Kathleen finished her first year of medical school at the University of Vermont. John’s father Robert O’Hara is a past chairman of the NWC board, and his mother Rosanne also volunteered for many years at NWC.

 John

R Foerster ’68 welcomed his second grandson Paxton Alfred on the 4th of July.

Pax joined older brother Cash. Mark and his wife split their time between Durban, South Africa and Michigan.

 Mark

Recently married?

Had a baby? Get a bib!

We’d love to include your photo in a future issue of Logos.

Send a photo of your wedding to Maureen Scudder at mscudder@nwcath.org.

Request your bib from Jane Leary at jleary@nwcath.org.

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ALUMNI NEWS

BABIES O’Leary ’00 and and her husband Dennis welcomed Áine Josephine O’Leary on April 9, 2019, weighing 4lbs 7oz. Áine came seven weeks early but is doing wonderfully and growing strong!

 Keara

DeRusha Pelton ’08 and her husband Bill welcomed their first child Nathan in September 2018.

 Hannah

Poirier Levesque ’11 and her husband Craig had a baby boy Emmett Levesque on May 26, 2019.

 Nicole

Kapral Roberts ’12 and her husband Charlie welcomed twin boys Oliver and Elliot in February while living in London, England.

 Emily

Maisano ’04 and his wife Megan welcomed identical twin girls Luna Rose and Vera Wren on June 5, 2019.

Hello, instant family!

 Adamo

Ozark Mangene ’03 and her husband welcomed their third child Peter Anthony Mangene on October 18, 2018.

 Jacquilynn

 NWC

Pearson ’02 and his wife welcomed son Jace on September 8, 2018. Jace joined big sister Nala.

 Clive

Mastronardi Miller ’98 and her husband Justin welcomed their first child Joseph William Miller on July 5, 2018.

science teacher Patrick Smith and his wife Cady welcomed Maeve Ellie February 23, 2019.

 Anne

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Mastronardi Yakovich ’96 and husband Dave welcomed Adrienne Margaret on September 14, 2018. Adrienne joined big sister Chloe.

 Julia

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ALUMNI NEWS

In Search of Sage Advice: Jack Carew ’16 shadows Dr. David Grew ’00 at St. Francis Hospital

by Jack Carew ’16 Needless to say, I do not find myself vibing with these folks and would go as far as saying they give me a sense of unease.

This phenomenon is akin to my inability to understand the sacrosanct feeling manifest during the college admissions process when a student professes to know indubitably that a certain university is right upon setting foot on the campus. My desire for the gumption to make a decision in such a way is only overshadowed by my fear of irrationally making the wrong choice. The thought of which postgraduate path to embark upon is no exception. Call it my unabashed love of counterculture or my learning to unapologetically embrace my orientation, I like to think that I have a penchant for questioning the dominant narrative.

So, I found myself excitedly awaiting chatting with and learning from Dr. Grew whilst on a snowy drive from Simsbury to Enfield.

Luckily, we were able to spend some time getting to know each other before we saw any patients. I briefed Dr. Grew on my academic interests, reasons for considering medical school and other graduate life sciences programs, and my dilemma between pursuing a wildlife-ecology-based career or embarking on a more medical track.

In February I had the opportunity to shadow Dr. David Grew ’00 at the Enfield satellite of St. Francis Hospital. While attending one of my younger brother’s freshman basketball games, I chatted with Mrs. Pat Walsh who offered to ask Dr. Grew whether he might allow an undergraduate to shadow him. So set off a flurry of emails between Dr. Grew and me, in which I quickly realized that his academic interests and path toward medical school and his current profession (as well as his age!) are far closer to my own than many other doctors whom I have learned from. While I am grateful for the myriad, of stories and viewpoints I have been fortunate enough to hear, I especially appreciated hearing Dr. Grew’s story and reasons for coming to the medical profession.

In order to understand the depth of my appreciation, it is key to note that I am not, and never was, an individual who knows, or knew, that he always wanted to become a doctor. My professional goals have ricocheted from dreams of paleontology to opening a restaurant for human and canine customers — all in the name of increased accessibility, of course — to my current, amorphous interest in the life sciences. To draw the comparison even more explicitly, my experience over the past six years has been one of meeting many students both at Northwest and Middlebury who have known from day one that they hoped to not only attend medical school but to graduate with that higher degree a mere four or five years after completing undergrad.

“My plan is to somehow combine my interests in life sciences with my passion for languages, specifically my proficiencies in Arabic and Spanish. After this chat, Dr. Grew offered his own story, and we traded book recommendations.”

Naturally, we saw patients, and I learned about the process and techniques behind building a plan for radiation treatment, but frankly I found Dr. Grew’s story about following medicine far more interesting and relevant than any specific oncological information I gleaned the day.

To clarify, Dr. Grew’s somewhat circuitous path toward medical school involved first beginning in a Master’s of Public Health program, before switching to a joint MPH/MD program and electing to specialize in radiation oncology. He described a very similar choice he made to forgo a more ecologically-focused career after attending a program studying tropical diseases while an undergraduate at Fordham, but then finding some of those very interests resurface while working on his MPH in post-Katrina New Orleans.

My day with Dr. Grew was gratifying, and I would even say — much to Ms. Keating-McKeon’s chagrin — fun. I am not sure what the next steps hold for me, but I certainly possess more clarity in terms of available options, and my belief that there is nothing wrong with being pre-med light has only been strengthened.

Jack Carew ’16 is a senior at Middlebury College. He spent semesters studying in Amman, Jordan, and Viña del Mar, Chile.

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NWC Class of 2015 Crosses the Stage!

Most members of the Class of 2015 earned their Bachelor’s degrees in May. Some finished early, a few are still wrapping up, but most 2015ers crossed the stage, tossed their caps, and are headed toward more great work! Here is a sample of their successes.

Congratulations, Class of 2015!

Marino Boccuzzi ’15 graduated from Quinnipiac School of Communications with a BA in Public Relations and a minor in Marketing.

Mackenzie Collyer ’15 graduated from Roanoke College with a BS in Sports Management and minor in Communications. She’s now working for Washburn University Athletics.

Nicholas Boccuzzi ’15 graduated from Quinnipiac University’s School of Business with a BS in Accounting.

Doyle ’15 graduated from Providence College with a degree in English.

She is working at Fidelity Investments in Boston. Pictured here with brother Joe ’13 and sister Clare ’19.

Kathryn 

Dudley ’15 graduated from Stonehill College with a degree in Sociology.

He is now working as a City Year Americorps Volunteer in Providence, RI. Here he is with his brother Jack ’17 and sister Katie ’20.  Kevin

Carew ’15 graduated from Villanova University. Her siblings, also NWC grads, Caroline ’12 is at Providence, Will ’13 from Syracuse, and Claire ’19 is at Holy Cross.

Charlotte 

Sabrina Carreira ’15 graduated magna cum laude from Anna Maria College with a BS in Sports Management. Sabrina is now in a Master’s program at Anna Maria while working as a graduate assistant to the softball team.

John Glascock ’15 graduated from Catholic University in 2019 with a BA in history and is now in a graduate program at Cornell University.

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Keating ’15 graduated from Norwich University in VT with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. He was in Norwich's Corp of Cadets/ROTC and is an active duty 2nd LT in the Army's Chemical Corp. Here he is with his grandparents following his commissioning oath ceremony.  Daniel

Sarah Kosha ’15 graduated from Sacred Heart University with a double major in Sports Management and Business Management. Sarah is now at the University of Rhode Island pursuing a Master’s in College Student Personnel.

Lorenz ’15 graduated from Iona College’s LaPenta School of Business with a degree in Business Administration Information Systems. Here he is with brother Cooper ’18.

 Preston

Brendan Fahey ’15 graduated from Tufts University with BS degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. Brendan is working for Redline Trading Solutions and living in Cambridge’s Harvard Square.

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ALUMNI NEWS

O’Hara ’15 graduated from Fairfield University. She’s now in a Masters in Social Work program at the school. Here she is with brother John ’07 (Fairfield ’11) and sister Kathleen ’11 (Holy Cross ’15) as well as John’s wife Julia.

 Elizabeth

Marshall ’15 graduated from Fairfield University’s Dolan School of Business with a degree in Marketing.

He’s now working at NBC’s Page Program at 30 Rock where he’s rotating through departments in the media giant, gaining experience in the industry. Here he is with his sister Delaney ’20.

 Matt

Miranda I. Matos ’15 graduated cum laude from the University of San Francisco with a BA in Environmental Studies. Miranda is on to law school.

 Elijah Riley ’15 graduated from Assumption College with a BA in Accounting and a minor in Finance.

Elijah played for Assumption’s football team. Over the summer Elijah was an accounting/finance intern for the YMCA Greater Hartford and is now in an MBA program at Assumption.

O’Sullivan ’15 graduated summa cum laude from Loyola University Maryland with a degree in Finance and minors in Math and Information Systems. Caitlin joined Stanley Black & Decker’s Leadership Program in Finance.

Caitlin 

Fiona Travers ’15 graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University with a BS in criminal justice and forensic psychology.

Vaughn ’15 graduated from Salve Regina with a BS in Social Work and Spanish. She is now in Chile with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Here’s Hope with her brothers JK ’06 and Ryan ’08.

 Hope

Kathleen Waterston ’15 graduated from Queen’s University, Kingston Ontario.

Young ’15 graduated summa cum laude from Assumption College with a degree in Biology. He plans to head into a PhD/MD program. Pictured with brother Spencer ’10 and sister Kristen ’13.

Cameron 

Miguel ’15 graduated cum laude from Quinnipiac University’s School of Nursing and is working as an RN at the Bone and Joint Institute at Hartford Hospital. Here she is with her parents and brother Justin ’18.

 Angela

RJ Place ’15 graduated from the College of the Holy Cross with a BS in Economics.

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Emma Deneen ’14 Americorp Volunteer at Grace Academy When Northwest Catholic alumna Emma Deneen of Windsor left for North Carolina’s Elon University five years ago, she wasn’t certain what major she’d pursue. She was sure, however, that she would find a way to serve the world, one way or another.

“The message is always there at Northwest — that the way you act affects others.”

At first Emma considered international relations and political science. After spending her formative high school years at Northwest Catholic, learning to look outward rather than in, Emma figured coursework about global economics and ethics was a good start. But after her first year at Elon, Emma found herself drawn to psychology and neuroscience and could already see their connections to community development.

After talking with Emma Deneen in her office at Grace Academy in Hartford, it became increasingly clear that she’s an interdisciplinary junkie. Emma finds a way to pull all her interests together with a BS in Psychology and as a lifelong student of community development with all its intersecting influences, including poverty, trauma, and resilience, Emma is now positioned for a successful career on the global scene.

But this past year, rather than travel the world or dive into graduate school, Emma stayed close to home to make a difference right here in Hartford. Emma worked as an Americorp Volunteer serving as assistant teacher and administrative support at Grace Academy, a school in Hartford for girls in grades 5 through 8.

Grace Academy is a tuition-free, college preparatory program. True to the Nativity Miguel model, the school’s committed staff provide a holistic education and guide the girls toward high-performing public and private high schools and even follow them on to college. Serving low-income, highly motivated girls in small classes with extended schedules, Grace is making a difference in their families’ lives, and Emma was part of that difference.

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In June, Emma completed her stint at Grace.

She immediately flew to Denver to begin her next chapter with the Public Interest Network, the parent organization for groups such as Green Corp, Pesticide Watch, and Community Voters Project.

PIN has a “vision of a better world,” which is a good fit for Emma Deneen. And after a year at the Public Interest Network, Emma already has a plan. She’s been accepted into the University of Denver’s Masters of Social Work program. Denver’s MSW has a special focus on community development and sustainability, another perfect fit for Emma.

When asked about her experiences at Grace Academy, Emma immediately pointed to the school’s many gifts. She spoke of how Grace’s staff share a common goal and “all work together toward something bigger,” of how her colleagues follow the families “all the way through.” She described the importance of relationships at Grace and how the staff truly care, how they are removing barriers everyday.

When Emma reflected on her experiences at Northwest Catholic, she immediately drew lines back to Mrs. Gillespie and Campus Ministry. She talked about her afternoons at the Catholic Worker House and Monday nights at Manna Meals. In retrospect, she can see how the foundation was laid with Northwest Catholic’s focus on compassion, reflection, and prayer. Emma also appreciates how Northwest rewards service. She said, “People at Northwest really care that you’re serving others.”

She reminisced about a meal-packing project that she started with her classmate Victoria Gleixner ’14, a project that has become an annual tradition at the school.

When Emma and Victoria won the service award as seniors, she remembers feeling elated. She said the recognition meant so much to her.

Emma went on, “The message is always there at Northwest — that the way you act affects others.” She added, “We learned about investing in society. We were always being reminded of what our place in the world could be.”

ALUMNI NEWS

Jesuit Volunteer Corps member Rose O'Brien ’14 with her preschool class on graduation day at the Pio Decimo Center, Tuscon, AZ.

Challenged & Transformed

by Rose O’Brien ’14 In the spring of 2018, I graduated from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. A few months later, I was on a plane to Loyola Chicago for a week of orientation with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps.

Finally, on August 5th, my three roommates and I landed in our new home of Tucson, Arizona. For the past year, I worked at an early childhood education center and after school program called the Pio Decimo Center where I had the opportunity to work with kids ages three to twelve.

Over the past few weeks, I have been asked many times about my Jesuit Volunteer year. During the first few conversations, I found myself at a loss for words. How could I articulate my experiences without accidently unpacking my entire year? I tasked myself with two adjectives to describe my year and ended up with challenging and transformative.

“aha! I’m transformed” moment. Instead, I suppose that this was a gradual transformation, and will continue from this point forward.

That being said, I can affirm that locally grown food always tastes better, that next Halloween at the Pio Decimo Center there will be approximately thirteen Avengers characters and at least four Black Panthers, and that any snowfall in the desert is miraculous and mysterious, even if you have seen snow throughout your entire life.

Rose O'Brien ’14 graduated from St. Joseph University in Philadelphia with a degree in Psychology. She spent a year in the JVC working at the Pio Decimo Center, a large Catholic social services agency in Tuscon, AZ. Today Rose is taking prerequisite classes in hopes of attending Physician Assistant school.  Tim Dodds '14 and Rose O’Brien '14

at Loyola Chicago JVC Orientation August 2018.

Much to my surprise, above all, this year was a challenge. I was challenged by my community to accept that sometimes it’s okay to agree to disagree on where to buy groceries or how often we should have community meals. I was challenged by my placement to lean in and engage with the kids when they told me stories about a movie they had seen, or on November 1st, listening to the millions of Halloween costume ideas they had for the years to come. I was challenged by Tucson to appreciate the little things such as the dry heat, the monsoons, and the snow that fell for the first time in years.

Throughout the last month of my volunteer year, I found myself split between feelings of relief and uneasiness about my imminent return to the East Coast. I felt prepared to begin this next chapter of my life, and having a paying job definitely wasn’t going to hurt. On the other hand, I had developed relationships with kids who had barely started kindergarten. I couldn’t fathom leaving the kids and staff that had impacted my year. I cannot pinpoint a time as the

 Hope Vaughn '15 and

Rose O’Brien ’14 at Saint Joseph's University JVC Orientation August 2019.

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ALUMNI NEWS

Alums Return for Accepted Students Night Dr. Danielle Lawrence-Montague Moye, PhD ’04 is a counselor, social justice advocate, psychotherapist, and licensed marriage and family therapist.

Molly McCormack Spolarich ’07 is a business change manager at Beazley Insurance Group. She recently earned an MBA from the University of Connecticut.

Keating McKeon ’08 is a PhD candidate in Classical Philology at Harvard University. Keating is a nine-time winner of Harvard's Certificate of Distinction in Teaching.

Ted Terrion ’10 is a portfolio manager for Founders Capital.

Julia Mastronardi Yakovich ’96 is the director of service learning at the University of Connecticut.

Dramateurs return for 10th Anniversary of Godspell

 2015 graduates spoke to seniors about

college (left to right): Fiona Shea, Fordham University studying French and Communications; Nora Holland, Fairfield University studying Communications; Gigi Giannone, Sacred Heart University studying Nursing; Anna Mirabello, Belmont University studying Songwriting; Adam Mendoza, University of Connecticut studying Economics.

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ALUMNI NEWS

Alums LEAD the Next Generation Welcome Home

Want to be an Alumni LEADS Speaker?

This year NWC instituted its new Alumni LEADS program, which included inviting alumni back to Northwest Catholic to speak to current students about their experiences in college and beyond.

Contact: Beth Boyle ’96 at bboyle@nwcath.org

 Kristina Gillepie and

 Adam

Liz Stafford Kurantowicz ’00.

Vancisin ’15 and Joyce O’Rourke.

 Brooke Denver

Brigham ’09, Mark Dodd, and Jacqui Denver ’13.  Elizabeth Carpenter

Brantley ’96 and Director of Alumni Beth Boyle ’96.

 John Mirabello and

 Paul Fitzpatrick, Leon Babcock ’15,

Pedro Rivera ’96.

and Cory Carlson.

Elizabeth Carpenter Brantley ’96 talked about her path to Loyola University, Maryland, then into a career at Travelers Insurance that carried her to the West Coast, to the Southeast, then back to Hartford. Brantley said it was at Northwest where she learned how to speak her mind without arrogance and without diminishing someone else’s point of view.

Adam Gooley ’03 discussed his work as a corrections officer at the Hartford Correctional Center. During his time at NWC, Adam played football, hockey, and baseball.

Brittany Hayes ’00 talked about earning her JD from Catholic University and her work as a lawyer. She also earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science from Catholic University.

Garrett Hickey ’09 talked about his work as a middle school social studies teacher in Bridgeport, its challenges and its rewards.

Liz Stafford Kurantowicz ’00 spoke about her career in politics.

After graduating from Fordham University in 2004, Kurantowicz dived headlong into politics. She discussed interning for Nancy Johnson, working for Governor Jodi Rell, starting the first independent expenditure political action committee, talking on a weekly WTNH show, and being a guest pundit on WNPR. Alex Mortillaro ’12 discussed his work for the NCAA. Alex attended Villanova Unveristy where he dedicated hours with boys basketball program. His efforts helped him to land his current position as coordinator at Championships and Alliances for the NCAA.

Ally Mullings ’10 talked about her four years of D1 basketball at Siena College where she earned her degree in Biology before getting her degree in Nursing from Quinnipiac. Ally works in the Emergency Department at St. Francis Hospital and is working toward her doctorate in Nursing Practice.

Erin Neagle ’08 discussed her work in hospitality management.

She described her unique path to becoming the Catering Manager at Delamar, an upscale hotel and banquet facility in West Hartford.

Colleen Riley ’12 talked about her work as a pharmacist at CVS and she shared stories of her road to Duquesne University’s School of Pharmacy. She encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones and take risks until they find their place. Riley also discussed the challenges of pharmacy work, the opioid crisis, and why she likes working one-on-one with patients to improve their health.

Pedro Rivera ’96 talked about his path to public service and the many rewards and challenges of police work. He talked about the skills required to be a fair and effective police officer. He stressed the importance of showing respect, remaining impartial, employing one’s ethics, following protocols, and being accountable for one’s actions.

Adam Vancisin ’15 shared his knowledge of the accounting field as well as general career planning and professional development.

Adam studied Accounting and Quantitative Economics at the University of Connecticut.

Leon Babcock ’15 talked about his experiences in the University of Connecticut’s Air Force ROTC program.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”

– PERICLES

ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Be part of something bigger We asked and you answered! As we approached the end of our fiscal year, we shared a challenge with our generous community: Help us reach a new benchmark of $1.5 million in giving to the Northwest Catholic Fund and earn up to $60,000 in matching gifts, thanks to two anonymous benefactors.

We are delighted to report that, with your help, we surpassed our original goal of $1.4 million for the annual fund and achieved a new milestone of $1,530,933 for 2018-19!

We are deeply grateful for your generosity and willingness to invest in Northwest Catholic and our students. Your annual support for the Northwest Catholic Fund enables us to fulfill our mission to educate the whole person — mind, body, spirit, and imagination.

Northwest Catholic is proud of its reputation as an institution of outstanding academics where students are instilled with a sense of moral purpose and a commitment to God and others. We are able to fulfill this important mission with your continued support of our capital projects and of the Northwest Catholic Fund, our annual fund. Your gift ensures that every student is able to live up to his or her full potential — in the classroom, through athletics, on the stage, or in serving the community. We are so grateful to all our benefactors.

Because of you Northwest Catholic continues to thrive.

Make your next gift to Northwest Catholic at northwestcatholic.org/giveonline.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

You Decide The Founders’ Circle and Gift Clubs The Founders’ Circle is made up of donors who display exceptional interest in the advancement of NWC by virtue of their gifts of $1,000 or more. Their generosity serves as an inspiration.

Every year members of the Founders’ Circle are invited to a special dinner to thank them for their support of NWC.

Founders’ Circle Gift Clubs

Special Giving Opportunities Occasions arise when there are special projects to be accomplished at NWC or when donors wish to honor an individual or group with a gift. You are invited to participate in any of the current special efforts underway:

Many alumni, parents, and friends of NWC have chosen to honor an individual or a family while helping students in financial need by funding an endowed scholarship.

You may honor someone special by contributing to these funds.

• John P. Scully ’73 Memorial Scholarship

Endowed Scholarships

• NWC Indians Legacy Scholarship

• Rev. Lawrence R. Bock Scholarship

• Margaret R. Williamson Scholarship

• Boudreau Family Leadership Scholarship

• Legacy Society $100,000+

• South Catholic Scholarship

• Presidents’ Society $50,000 - $99,999

• Adam M. Lawton ’99 Memorial Scholarship

• Rev. Frascadore Society $25,000 - $49,999 • Rev. Colton Society $10,000 - $24,999 • Archbishop’s Society $5,000 - $9,999 • Green & White Society $2,500 - $4,999 • Dominican Order Society $1,000 - $2,499

Endowed and Annual Named Scholarships

• Nora E. O’Brien ’82 Memorial Scholarship • Michael Tyler ’73 Family Scholarship • Rice Auditorium Seat Naming Opportunity

• Bourret Family Scholarship • Rev. Bradford Colton Memorial Scholarship • Paige Ann Corrigan Memorial Scholarship • Carol Cunningham Memorial Family Scholarship • The Honorable & Mrs. John J. Daly Family Scholarship • The Maurice and Phyllis Guillet Memorial Scholarship • Regina Guilmartin Memorial Scholarship • Indians Legacy Scholarship • Stephen Lennox ’69 Memorial Scholarship • McGuire Family Scholarship • Patricia Mittica Memorial Scholarship • Russell Morrisett ’73 Scholarship • Nora E. O'Brien ’82 Memorial Scholarship

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

• Salvatore S. Piacente, M.D. Memorial Scholarship • Catherine Malloy Pintavalle ’75 Memorial Scholarship • Paul Reardon Memorial Scholarship

• Damuth Music Scholarship • Foundation for the Advancement of Catholic Schools Scholarship • Rev. Henry C. Frascadore Scholarship

MORE WAYS TO GIVE In addition to sending a check or donating online, you may give in the following ways:

• The Fund for Greater Hartford Scholarship

• United Way

• Rooney Family Scholarship • William M. Sanders, M.D. and Louise K. Sanders Scholarship

• Greater Hartford Catholic Education Association Scholarship

• Bequest by Will or Trust

• John P. Scully ’73 Memorial Scholarship

• Greenwood/Melanson/Gartland Memorial Scholarship

• Real and Personal Property

• Rev. John T. Shugrue and Shugrue Family Memorial Scholarship

• Dr. William Hart Memorial Scholarship

• South Catholic High School Scholarship

• Hartford Inner City Scholarship

• Walter Stosuy Memorial Scholarship

• Maximilian E. and Marion O. Hoffman Scholarship

• Trina Sullivan Memorial Scholarship

• Knights of Columbus Scholarship

• Elizabeth P. Sweeney Memorial Scholarship

• Adam M. Lawton ’99 Memorial Scholarship

• Bruce N. Torell Memorial Scholarship

• Matthew 25 Scholarship

• Michael Tyler ’73 Family Scholarship

• Men of Covenant Women of Grace Scholarship

• United Technologies Corporation STEM Scholarship • John T. Ziewacz, Sr. Memorial Scholarship

• Erick Molden ’91 Memorial Scholarship • NWC Faculty & Staff Financial Aid Scholarship

Annual Scholarships

• Bishop Peter A. Rosazza Scholarship

• 50th Anniversary Scholarship

• Joseph F. Reilly Memorial Scholarship

• Archbishop’s Scholarship

• St. Ann’s Scholarship

• Minnie Bartolucci Scholarship

• Thomas and Anne Sarubbi Scholarship

• Cancellarini Trust Scholarship

• The Albert L. Spelas Scholarship

• Rev. John P. Cook Scholarship

• John G. Tully ’68 Memorial Scholarship

• Covenant Preparatory School Scholarship

• Securities • Life Income Gift

Make your next gift at NorthwestCatholic.org/ giveonline.

NWC community gives $1.5 million to the 2018-2019 Northwest Catholic Fund, our annual fund!

• Michele and Donald D'Amour Scholarship

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Senior Parents’ Legacy Gift Thank you to the parents of the Class of 2019! These committed parents collectively contributed $22,498 to the Senior Parents’ Legacy Gift! Thanks to their generosity, Northwest Catholic upgraded and added to the projection systems for the Mortensen Theater, the Fr. Bock Room, and the Library Conference Room.

Special thanks goes to Co-Chairs, Rob and Lisa-Anne Foster, Michael Moustakakis and Emily Daponte, and Michael and Patricia Sisk, whose leadership and guidance were invaluable assets to the project.

Green Day of Giving APRIL 30, 2019 The Northwest Catholic community came together for the school’s annual Green Day of Giving and raised:

$64,983!

Proceeds from this community-wide effort were directed to the Northwest Catholic Fund.

This essential annual fund makes up nearly 10% of the school's operating budget.

Gifts to this fund allow us to: • Support and invigorate the caliber of teaching • Ensure that financial aid remains at the heart of the school’s mission • Build an environment that emphasizes academic excellence, faith in God, and service to others

We are grateful to all the donors who stepped up on April 30, 2019 and showed their pride!

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 Wayne Malefant (Barrieau Oil), Dan Filomeno (Acoustics, Inc.), Lindsay Boland

(Lessing’s Food Service), Chip Loree (Lessing’s Food Service), Marc & Karen Belletsky (Class of 2018 Senior Parents’ Gift Co-Chairs), Robert Roach (Friar Architecture, Inc.), Roanne Marquardt (Belknap White Group), Cristin Auten ’00 (Friar Architecture, Inc.), Kathy and Steve Cloud (M. Frank Higgins & Co).

Pride Café Grand Opening In February Northwest Catholic held a grand opening for its new Pride Café.

The newly renovated space is home to a café serving coffee, beverages, sandwiches, and snacks. Before the renovation, the dimly-lit alcove housed vending machines and storage. Today the bright, inviting space offers students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to grab coffee or a snack before or after school, during a free period, or while meeting with a visitor. The Pride Café creates yet another way for Northwest Catholic to come together in community.

We are deeply grateful to the many benefactors who made this project a reality, including the Class of 2018 Senior Parents’ Legacy Gift donors, Lessing’s Food Service, Acoustics, SFA Group, Ronnie Demeo Construction, Friar Architecture, The Belknap White Group, M. Frank Higgins & Co., Barrieau Oil Company, and Venora Electric, Inc. At the grand opening, President Cashman welcomed the guests and honored all those who helped make the dream of the Pride Café a reality. Cashman said, “The Northwest Catholic spirt is about community,” and the new café helps illustrate that commitment. Cashman concluded, “The Pride Café is at the heart of Northwest Catholic.”

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Northwest Catholic Receives One Million Dollar Gift Northwest Catholic recently received one million dollars, the largest single gift in school history. This donation came on the heels of the school’s most successful annual fund campaign, which raised $1.5 million.

These successes inspired two more donors to step up and pledge another $1.1 million.

These gifts are helping lay the foundation for the school’s extensive NWC Vision 2021 master plan, which will include providing financial aid, advancing programs and professional development, and providing seed money for a multimillion, multiphase renovation.

The late Dr. Lee and Adeline Damuth, West Hartford residents and loyal supporters of Northwest Catholic, understood the school’s mission and imprint on the community. In their planned giving, through the Dr. R. Lee and Adeline J. Damuth Foundation, the couple left in bequest one million dollars to Northwest Catholic High School.

Dr. and Mrs. Damuth’s generosity has been felt at Northwest Catholic since the 1990s when the annual Damuth Music Scholarship was established. This annual scholarship rewards accomplished musicians and provides access — one of the school’s top priorities — to students who otherwise might not be able to attend.

What’s as remarkable as the couple’s generosity is the fact that they were not Northwest Catholic alumni nor were they current or alumni parents. The Damuths weren’t even Catholic. The late Dr. Damuth was a dentist in West Hartford, and his wife Adeline, who passed in 2012, ten years after her husband, supported Northwest Catholic because they were impressed by the Northwest Catholic community.

Northwest Catholic’s President and Head of School Christian Cashman learned last spring that the gift would be given to the school this summer. The trustee of the The Dr. R. Lee and Adeline J. Damuth Foundation chose this time to release the gift as the school is positioning itself for the future. Cashman said, “The gift is a launching pad. It’s a gift to garner other gifts.” He continued, “In fact, two other donors have already stepped up and together have pledged an additional 1.1 million.” Cashman reiterated, “We have already raised 2.1 million against our 3.5 million dollar goal for NWC Vision 2021.

The message of this gift from the Damuth Foundation is invest in Northwest.”

Cashman said, “It’s such a resounding endorsement of the school and takes the longview of Catholic education in the region.” He went on to explain how the gift will endow programs and ensure

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access. “Northwest provides between 1.8 and 1.9 million dollars in financial assistance every year. We are committed to the school’s socioeconomic diversity.

Catholic institutions weren’t founded to be elitist organizations. That’s why access is so important. We don’t want a single family who wants Catholic education to be shut out.”

The gift will also support the school’s Catholic identity, specifically its commitment to service and to faculty formation and development, and funding its extensive co-curricular programs that help to educate the whole person.

Third, the gift will be the seed money for a multimillion facilities upgrade, which will respond to the needs of students, including extensive upgrades to the school’s STEM classrooms and athletic fields and facilities.

Northwest Catholic is immersed in a two-year self study and strategic planning process. They have put into action surveys, interviews, focus groups, and institutional research instruments to map out a comprehensive strategic plan.

Cashman said, “We are exactly where we expect to be, and we are hitting all targets.” Cashman continued, “Our mission hasn’t changed. We are Catholic, college prep, and whole person, and we aren’t backing off that.”

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

 The Fr. Henry Frascadore Teaching Award recipient Betsy Quinn.

 Brendan

Wlochowski ’18 and Christian Cashman.

 Betsy Quinn with her husband John and children Jennie ’03 and John Jr. ’98.

 Michael Griffin,

Fran Laffin, and Linda Griffin.

 Colby Thresher, Anita Thresher, and Kate Foley ’71.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Founders’ Circle Dinner Honors Donors and Celebrates Teaching Last October Northwest Catholic hosted its annual Founders' Circle Dinner, a special event to honor those who gave $1,000 or more to the school the previous year. The Founders' Circle is comprised of donors committed to moving NWC forward.

Their vision is clear and their generosity inspiring.

At the event Board Chair Doug Waterston and Superintendent Dr. Michael Griffin thanked the guests for supporting NWC in a myriad of ways. Alumnus Brendan Wlochowski ’18 addressed the audience as well, explaining what financial aid meant to him personally and what it means to every recipient.

During this annual event, a NWC faculty member is given the Excellence in Teaching Award. This award recognizes the unique contributions of the recipient to the mission, values, and ideals of NWC, and to the young people the school serves. The 2018 recipient of the Fr. Henry Frascadore Teaching Award was NWC School Counselor Betsy Quinn.

Betsy Quinn’s loyal service as an English teacher, school counselor, AP coordinator, mentor, and leader are known to all at Northwest Catholic. For twenty-six years Betsy has been a fierce advocate for the care of the whole person, a core value of Northwest Catholic’s mission.

The Excellence in Teaching Award alternates each year between the Rev. Henry Frascadore Award and the Dr. Michael S. Griffin Award.

Previous recipients of the Rev. Henry Frascadore Award are:

1998 – Claudia Hart ’78 2000 – John Mirabello 2002 – Jim Shugrue 2004 – Patti Juda 2006 – Joyce O’Rourke 2008 – Kristina Gillespie 2010 – Nita Vitaliano 2012 – Deborah Metzler 2014 – Helga Phillips  Michael Tyler ’73 and Ed Jason ’71.

2016 – Timothy Crowley 2018 – Betsy Quinn Previous recipients of the Dr. Michael S. Griffin Award are:

2007 – Ron Swanson 2009 – Ana Barrett 2011 – Elizabeth Lynch McCarthy ’94 2013 – Beth Casey Boyle ’96 2015 – Joan Keating-McKeon 2017 – William Tressler  Eileen Walsh Neubert ’85 and Carolyn Murphy.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Thank you for Celebrating Northwest!

The Northwest Catholic community pulled together to raise more than $100,000 at February’s Celebrate Northwest!

Thank you for your outpouring of support!

It was a spectacular event, full of enthusiasm, generosity, and the love and affection that define the Northwest Catholic community.

Thank you to all who donated their time, creativity, and resources. Thank you to all who attended and all who could not but were with us in spirit. Thank you to all who bid at the event or online from their homes.

Thank you to the entire Advancement Team, but especially Jane Leary and the Celebrate Northwest! committee.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

 Current parents Bridget and Steve Tavares, Marsha and Tim Bryant, and Kevin Deneen ’78.

 Current parents

Betsy Gunsalus, Paula Fahy Ostop, Matt Conway, and Beth LaChance.

 Current parents

Theresa and Bill Lindberg at Celebrate Northwest!

 NWC Girls Basketball Coach Al Phillips with current parents

 Current parents Beth and Gary Olin and alumni parents

Rebecca Lobo and Steve Rushin.

Ken and Ann Grzesiuk Bach ’70.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Athletics Booster Club Hosts Fish Fry! In March the Athletics Booster Club held the school’s first Lenten Fish Fry. Guests enjoyed crispy fish and fries, coleslaw, beverages, and dessert. Campus Ministry also offered the Stations of the Cross in the chapel. And if all this weren’t enough, March Madness games were being broadcasted in the Navin Dining Hall.

 Volunteers behind the scenes at NWC’s first fish fry.

Raffle Winners $10,000 Allie Strid ’17 $2,500 Sophia Boudreaux ’20 $1,000 Erin Geary  Allie Strid ’17 with her brothers Justin ’10 and Ryan ’12.

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2019 Freshman Grandparents’ Day Members of the Class of 2022 showed off Northwest Catholic to their grandparents during the school’s annual Grandparents’ Day held in May.

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

2019 Golf Tournament: 42 Years of Fun!

The Winners!

1st Place Gross Winners Kevin McHugh ’78, Tom Bisson ’78, Fred Kask, Mark McGoldrick ’78 Score: 61

2nd Place Gross Winner Dominic Lopreato, Michael Sapere, Tom Bryant, Sean Preston Score: 62

1 st Place Net Winner Dan Melanson ’93, Bob LaChance, Pete Burke, Tony Giusto Score: 54.8

2nd Place Net Winner Michael Bordiere, William Campbell, Mark Landry, Bob Brochu Score: 56.9

Closest to the Line #1 Dick Callahan

Longest Drive #12 Patrick Williamson ’99

Closest to the Pin #16 Mark Murnane ’88 7’4” from pin

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Class of 1969

Celebrates

50th Reunion

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

Upcoming Reunions Class of 1979 40th Reunion Saturday, October 19, 2019 Rockledge Grille, West Hartford Questions? Please contact Maura McNally Kearns at kearnsm1@yahoo.com or Michael Morgan and michaelpmorgan@aol.com.

Class of 1999 20th Reunion Saturday, November 2, 2019 Hartford Golf Club Questions? Please contact a member of the reunion committee: Alicia Whilby-Babula, Courtney Jason Driesch, Loren Griffin Dickey, Amy Delligan Ferrer, Princess Wiggins Lyles, Heather Vaicekauskas Locklear, Nadia Rahaman, Mary Beth Slavin Reiss, Catie Talarski, Patrick Williamson, Trent Wilson.

Class of 2014 5th Reunion Wednesday, November 27, 2019 McLadden’s, West Hartford Questions? Contact Owen Eagan ore2@georgetown.edu or a member of the reunion committee: Chris Gosselin, Melissa Nenninger, Maggie Rose.

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In Memoriam Northwest Catholic extends its prayers and sympathies to the families of those in our community who passed away during the 2018-19 school year. Please send newspaper obituaries to Jane Leary at jleary@nwcath.org, and please notify mscudder@nwcath.org of any error or omissions. Thank you.

Alumni

Keith Stuart Cimiano ’10.

Margaret A. Riley ’69, sister of Lauren Riley Roy ’75, Michael Riley ’77, and the late Mary Riley Emswiler ’68; aunt of Maura Riley ’85, Daniel Riley ’86, Brendan Riley ’03, Taylor Riley ’05, Danielle Riley ’07, and Colleen Riley ’12.

Brendya Onelia Cole ’75.

Judith Ann Merritt Rowean ’67.

Doreen E. (Cotter) Amodio ’67.

Ginny Leigh Boland ’68, mother of Jack Boland ’00.

Carolyn Davis ’75, sister of Alyce Davis Knapp ’83; stepsister of Bridget Gleason ’76, Meg Gleason ’83, and Colleen Gleason ’86.

Mark Andrew Fioretti ’69.

Kathleen Marie Gorman ’66, brother of James Gorman ’72.

Lauren (Sayadoff) Gromak ’73, sister of Robert Sayadoff ’67, Carol Sayadoff Sarkozy ’70, Peter Sayadoff ’75, John Sayadoff ’77, and sister-in-law of Sally Tracy Sayadoff ’79.

James Peter Greene, Jr. ’69, sister of Sharon Greene Carrier ’68.

Todney Harris ’88, brother of Tesha Harris-Shannon ’88.

Ricardo A. Herrera ’93, husband of Jessica Rivera Herrera ’92, brother of Adriana Hilerio ’95; brother-in-law of Pedro Rivera ’94 and Melissa Rivera Molden ’97; uncle of Tatiana Hilerio ’18.

Robert F. Krieger ’72, brother of Barbara Krieger Ronan ’83 and Elizabeth Krieger Regele ’84.

Cynthia (Laputz) Larkum ’75.

Katherine Lilly ’98, sister of Bridget Lilly ’01, Maeve Lilly ’01, Patricia Lilly ’03, and the late John Lilly ’99.

Joseph Paul Liss III ’82, brother of Eileen Liss ’83, Rori Liss Sughrue ’86, and Suzanne Liss ’87.

Everett T. A. Pelkey ’65.

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Current & Alumni Friends & Family William Adams, father-in-law of Michael Lenz ’91.

Mary Ellen (Martin) Ashe, grandmother of Kevin Dudley ’15, Jack Dudley ’17, and Katie Dudley ’20.

Christopher Sullivan Barrett, father of Christopher Barrett ’79, Michael Barrett ’80, Peter Barrett ’81, Kelly Barrett Andrew ’83, Donal Barrett ’85, Elizabeth Barrett Clevenger ’89, and Daniel Barrett ’89; father-in-law of Richard Andrew ’76.

Norma Little Barry, mother of James Barry ’65, Barbara Barry Milligan ’68, and Karen Barry LeBlanc ’77; mother-in-law of Kathryn Johnson Barry ’65.

Stanley Bartus, father of Beth Bartus Cahill ’81; father-in-law of Jeff Cahill, NWC faculty member.

Lucille (McCarthy) Bellizzi, mother of Mary Bellizzi Halloran ’71, Jane Bellizzi Brockaway ’73, Peg Bellizzi Prato ’74, Ann Bellizzi Ragazzi ’78, and Kate Bellizzi McGuinness ’81; grandmother of Kate Halloran ’98 and Sean Halloran ’04; mother-in law of Michael Halloran ’70.

Raymond James Bellock, father of Kristi Gillespie, NWC faculty member; grandfather of Sarah Gillespie ’13 and Amy Gillespie, member of the Class of ’15.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

Winifred A. Berberick, grandmother of Michael Gualtieri ’04, Tyler Gualtieri ’06, and Ali Gualtieri ’09.

Edward F. Bourdon, uncle of Tim and Carrie Frederick Bourdon ’03, Peter Bourdon ’05, Michael Bourdon ’07, Tom Bourdon ’10, and MaryKate Bourdon ’13; brother of Peter Bourdon, former NWC board member.

Dawn H. Burke, wife of Leonard Burke ’72.

John J. Burnett, uncle of Francis Burnett ’89 and George Burnett ’16.

Elaine Burke, aunt of Claudia Hart ’78, NWC faculty member.

Clare M. Buzzell, mother-in-law of Amy Griffin Buzzell ’97.

Francesco John Calitri, grandfather of Nicholas Calitri ’10, Tyler Calitri ’12, and Samantha Calitri, member of the Class of ’14; mother-in-law of Cindy Hesketh Calitri ’81.

Jennie K. Calitri, grandmother of Nicholas Calitri ’10, Tyler Calitri ’12, and Samantha Calitri, member of the Class of ’14; mother-in-law of Cindy Hesketh Calitri ’81.

Edwin Barton Campbell, grandfather of Brenden Bellinger ’20.

Kevin P. Canny, brother of Anne Canny Wargo ’84 and Brendan Canny ’86, former NWC faculty member.

Mary Agnes (Bergeron) Carey, grandmother of Madeleine Gauthier ’12, Brigid Gauthier ’16, and Coleen Gauthier ’18; mother of Kathleen Gauthier, former NWC faculty member; mother-in-law of Christopher Gauthier ’82.

Raoul William Carrier, husband of Sharon Greene Carrier ’68; brother of David Carrier ’74.

IN MEMORIAM John H. Casey, stepfather of David Dupuis ’76, John Dupuis ’79, Carol Dupuis ’80, and Ellen Dupuis Dudek ’85.

Mary Lorayne (Golden) Chamberland, mother of Mary Chamberland ’70, Michael Chamberland ’72, Valerie Chamberland Donovan ’73, and Susan Chamberland Anderson ’75.

Joan Chaves, mother of JoAnn Chaves Cotter ’76, the late Arthur Chaves ’78, and the late Peter Chaves ’78.

Damon Burke Clemow, son-in-law of John Hussey ’65.

Beth-Anne Daly, aunt of Maeve Daly ’07 and Bridget Daly ’10.

George Howard Dean, father of Carol Dean Gilbert ’67, Priscilla Dean Prior ’70, George Dean ’76, James Dean ’78, and Jacqueline Dean Kiefel ’81.

Irene Cesanek Desmarais, grandmother of Nicholas Desmarais ’06, Gregory Desmarais ’08, and Emily Desmarais ’12; mother-in-law of Denise Bouvier Desmarais ’77.

Edward Diemente, father of Deborah Diemente ’68, Eric Diemente ’70, and Greta Diemente Sibley ’75.

Dorothy Ada Dillworth, mother of Drew Dillworth ’85.

William E. Dowden, DDS, father of William Dowden ’82 and Lee Dowden ’83.

Laurie J. Drisdelle, grandfather of Nathaniel Drisdelle, member of the Class of ’13, Justin Drisdelle ’15.

Patricia H. Droney, mother of Ann Marie Droney David ’82; grandmother of Caitlin David ’22.

Helen (Csenge) Dropick, mother of Dr. Ann Dropick ’73.

Olive Mulroney Elliott, grandmother of Kathleen Waterston ’15 and Brian Waterston ’17; mother-in-law to Doug Waterston, NWC board chair.

Alycia Brierley Evica, mother of Mariana Evica ’84.

Joseph James Fiume, father-in-law of Adam Gooley ’03.

Trevor Michael French, father of Austin French ’05 and Keegan French ’07.

Maureen Dunn Fox, mother of Cathleen Fox Laffin ’77, Ellen Fox Spalluto ’77, Brendan Fox, Jr., former NWC board member; mother-in-law of Ellen Rodgers Fox ’85; grandmother of Maureen Spalluto ’06, Carolyn Spalluto ’08, Caitlin Spalluto ’12, Michael Laffin ’11, Matthew Laffin ’13, Stephen Laffin ’16, Brendan Fox ’13, John Fox ’14, and Luke Fox ’18.

Mitchell P. Gajek, grandfather of Aaron Hatch ’03, Austin Hatch ’07, Adrian Hatch ’13, and Avery Hatch ’16.

Marcia Murphy Geary, grandmother of Emily Geary ’20.

Lawrence Gloekler, father of Ellen Gloekler Murphy ’78.

Jennie Gorra, grandmother of Dillon Meehan ’12.

Geraldine Reynolds Green, mother of Mark Green ’82 and Kelly Green ’88.

Lauren (Sayadoff) Gromak, sister of Robert Sayadoff ’67, Carol Sayadoff Sarkozy ’70, Peter Sayadoff ’75, John Sayadoff ’77; sister-in-law of Sally Tracy Sayadoff ’79.

Edward Gilday Healey, uncle of John Healey ’10 and Meghan Healey ’13.

Eileen Hemond, mother of Nancy Hemond Brown ’70, Elizabeth Hemond Cannone ’77, and Richard Hemond ’79; grandmother of Alyson Cannone ’07 and Kaitlyn Cannone ’10.

Benito Ulpiano Hernandez, father of Alejandro Hernandez ’01.

Mary Mazurek Heslin, mother of Mary Ellen Heslin Taub ’72, John Heslin ’76, the late Joanne Heslin Laverty ’70, and the late Thomas Heslin ’73; grandmother of Julie Lavery ’03, Thomas Heslin ’06, Jack Heslin ’09, and Haley Heslin ’10; mother-in-law of Tracey Preston Heslin ’76.

Robert R. Holmes, father of Tim Holmes ’73, Noreen Giannini Holmes ’76, and Patrick Holmes ’86.

Margaret Burek Hughes, mother of Michael Hughes ’73, Carolyn Hughes LaMonaca ’75, and Kevin Hughes ’77.

Dorothy A. Kachnowski, grandmother of Will Kachnowski ’11 and John Kachnowski ’15.

Michael Joseph Kandrysawtz, Jr., father of Michael Kandrysawtz ’78.

T H E M A G A Z I N E O F N O R T H W E S T C AT H O L I C

Anna May Kelliher, great grandmother of Emma Chipps ’23.

Philip F. Kelly, father of Laura Kelly ’77; stepfather of Elizabeth Forand Morrisroe ’83; grandfather of Jacqueline Tanzella ’01.

James Michael Klingman, grandfather of Jacqueline Klingman ’14 and Nicholas Klingman ’17.

Carol (Jordan) Lantz, sister of John Jordan ’66 and Mary Sanford Jordan ’68.

Lynch, Patricia A., former NWC faculty member; mother of Stefanie Lynch Wood ’91, Elizabeth Lynch McCarthy ’94, Nathaniel Lynch ’98, and Aislinn Oates member of the Class of ’20.

Timothy Lynch, grandfather of Jack and Allison Whalen Frailey ’05 and Mary Frailey ’10.

Michael J. McAndrews, father of Julianne McAndrews Cline ’08 and Joe McAndrews ’10.

Joan McCooey, mother of Patricia McCooey ’78.

E. Merritt McDonough, grandfather of Emily McDonough ’10, Merritt McDonough, member of the Class of ’12, and Natalie McDonough member of the Class of ’16.

John Joseph McMahon, former NWC softball coach; father of Kyla McMahon ’97.

Judge Kevin P. McMahon, husband of Patti Romano McMahon ’71.

George Harrison Merritt, father of Judith Merritt Rowean ’67.

James Morena, grandfather of Michael Boya ’07 and Kevin Boya ’09; father of Teresa Boya, former NWC staff member; father-in-law of Mark Boya ’77.

Angela G. (Strazza) Morganthaler, grandmother of Joe Morganthaler ’20 and Grace Morganthaler ’22.

Thomas Michael Murphy, grandfather of Grace Sawka ’18 and Harrison Sawka ’20; father-in-law of Mary Beth Shimkus Murphy ’79.

Joan Patrice (Barry) Natale, grandmother of John O’Hara ’07, Kathleen O’Hara ’11, and Elizabeth O’Hara ’15; mother-in-law of Robert O’Hara, former NWC board chair.

Patricia S. O’Grady, grandmother of J.K. Vaughan ’06, Ryan Vaughan ’08, Tanner Vaughan ’12, and Hope Vaughan ’15.

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IN MEMORIAM Ronald C. Pascavis, grandfather of Madeleine Pascavis ’21.

Mary L. Vaughan, aunt of Christopher Molloy ’95 and Jennifer Molloy Dinardo ’98.

Lucille Mary (Franco) Pezzulo, mother of Alex Pezzulo ’69.

Marie Joyce Willenbrock, grandmother of Rebecca Molin ’16.

Lila (Corrado) Pitek, mother of Martin Pitek ’79, Joan Pitek Hijeck ’80, and the late Richard Pitek ’84.

Current & Former Faculty, Staff, Administration

Reverend Francis X. Reese S.J., uncle of Margie Williamson, former NWC administrator, great uncle of Patrick Williamson ’99, Megan Williamson Lawson ’03, and Kate Williamson ’08.

Francis Abate, father-in-law of Miriam Abate, NWC staff member.

Mary Virginia Roto, grandmother of Mark Filomeno ’04, Joe Filomeno ’06, and Madelyn Filomeno ’09.

Jane Bellizzi Fischetti, mother of Marie Frischetti Landon, former NWC faculty member.

Julian J. Senko, grandfather of Will Dodds ’08 and Tim Dodds ’14.

Judith Ann Gurganus, mother of Jeff Gurganus, former NWC faculty member.

Mary Margaret Shea, grandmother of Matthew Querfeld ’20; mother of Kathy Querfeld, NWC board member.

Carlos Sierra, brother of Desmond Sierra ’15 and Savanna Sierra ’18.

Winifred Stabile, grandmother of Robert Donohue ’12 and Ryan Donohue ’14, mother of Karen Donohue, NWC staff member.

Newell A. Stamm, grandfather of Michael Stamm ’19.

Michael Alexander Berges Stewart, son of Margaret Berges ’92; nephew of Elizabeth Berges ’90, Kari Boswell ’92, Matthew Berges, a member of the Class of ’96, and Patrick Berges, a member of the Class of ’97.

Julie Ann (Boczar) Story, mother of Juliana Story ’08; aunt of Christopher Delphia ’99 and Alexandra Delphia Wittner ’02.

Howard T. Svensson, grandfather of Tyler Esposito ’19 and Riley Esposito ’22.

Vilma B. Szilagyi, mother-in-law of Meghan Wentworth ’87; step-grandmother of Mackenzie Tibball ’16 and Nolan Tibball, member of the Class of ’19.

Dr. Anthony N. Maluccio, husband of Janice Maluccio, former NWC faculty member.

John J. Mancini, father-in-law of Bill Tressler, former NWC faculty member.

Anthony Michael Massaro, son of Linda Massaro, former NWC Advancement Director.

Felix McDonald, uncle of Catherine Curran, NWC faculty member.

James Moran, uncle of Dan Avery ’97, NWC faculty member.

James Mark Quinn, Jr., father-in-law of Madonna Burke, NWC faculty member.

Gordon Robinson, husband of Virginia Robinson, former NWC faculty member.

Friends Helen T. Molloy

Barbara E. (Rhodes) Tanguay, grandmother of Patrick Tanguay ’09, Katie Tanguay ’12, Sean Tanguay ’16, Libby Vandal ’19, and Laney Vandal, member of the Class of ’21.

Haydee Tardino, great grandmother of Kris Olivera ’19.

Barbara A. Tracey, mother of Kathleen Tracey Bulger ’84 and Megan Tracey ’85.

Margherita Troy, grandmother of Gianna Weidman ’21.

Joseph Vaughn, grandfather of J.K. Vaughn ’06, Ryan Vaughn ’08, Tanner Vaughn ’12, and Hope Vaughn ’15.

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IN MEMORIAM

Northwest Catholic faces our second half century with justified enthusiasm. The history of its first 50 years of accomplishments is exceptional. Graduates of our school have achieved notable success and leadership in education, religious life, business, military service, law, medicine, and other fields.

They have also given back generously to support their school’s mission. The 1961 Society is established to encourage future support of Northwest Catholic through planned gifts to increase endowment. This effort assures a continued strong

financial future and allows us to provide financial aid to deserving students, as well as keeping future costs of a Northwest Catholic education as manageable as possible.

Below is a list of current members of the society. We would be pleased to learn of others who may have made this provision, or are considering it. Please contact Pat Walsh, Director of Advancement, at 860-236-4221, ext. 138 or pwalsh@nwcath.org. You can also inform us directly at NorthwestCatholic.org/The1961SocietyEnrollment.

MEMBERS OF THE 1961 SOCIETY Theresa Notte Becker ’76 and Clint Becker (AP) Drs. Catherine Foley Bodak-Gyovai ’65 and Levente Bodak-Gyovai Phil Bonee ’72 and Valerie Bonee (AP) +Clarence Bourret (AP) Timothy F. Bourret ’73 +Maureen Dennehy (Former Faculty) Rev. Henry C. Frascadore (Former President) Karen L. Fritsche (Friend)

Karen L. Fritsche, A Friend to Northwest Catholic One of the biggest regrets of my life is that I was not able to attend Northwest Catholic.

When my father was transferred to Connecticut from Pittsburgh, I was a year too old to join NWC's first graduating class.

I had attended Catholic schools in Pittsburgh for ten years and was accustomed to character and religious formation as part of the curriculum and appreciated having classmates with a strong work ethic. Conard High School was a good school but very different from Vincentian High School in Pittsburgh, which I attended, and Northwest Catholic.

Frank Genovese ’65 and Susan Genovese +Rev. Leonard T. Goode (Friend) Kevin Grenham ’78 and Beth Grenham (AP) +Martha Johnson (Friend) Philip F. and Susan Kelly (AP) (GP) Jean Lam (Friend) William Murphy ’67 and Katherine Murphy Jane Z. Reardon (AP) (Former Faculty Spouse) +Anne F. Satriano (Friend)

My sister, five years younger than I, had the privilege of graduating from Northwest Catholic, a school she loved. In addition to her moral formation, NWC provided her with an education in art, music, and athletics, all of which she continued in college. She also loved being part of a big, caring family — the Northwest Catholic community.

After graduating from Saint Joseph College in West Hartford, I taught French for one year at Granby High School and for 34 years at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High in Sudbury, MA. I earned a Master's degree from Middlebury College in Vermont and Paris, a licence ès lettres from the Sorbonne, and a certificate from the Ecole d'interprètes et de traducteurs in Paris, which enabled me to work on translating projects at UNESCO. My work teaching and translating helped me pay my way at Middlebury. (Imagine being able to pay off three degrees and have no debt with savings from only one year of teaching and some translating projects!)

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+Francine M. Sider (AP) Dennis P. Sullivan (AP) +William C. Sullivan (Friend) Ronald E. Swanson (Faculty) +Elizabeth P. Sweeney (Friend) Colby and Anita Thresher (AP)

+ Denotes Deceased

Years later I earned an MA in Spanish from Middlebury and spent a semester in Madrid.

Although I loved teaching at Lincoln-Sudbury and am still in touch with many of my students, Vincentian High School, like Northwest Catholic, had a more family atmosphere.

I have endowed awards at Lincoln-Sudbury because I loved my career there.

I have also funded awards at Northwest Catholic in art in honor of my sister Nancy, who died six years ago, and a service award in honor of my father. I have also funded an award at the Catholic nursing school my mother attended.

By designating money in my will to The 1961 Society, I have funded awards at Northwest Catholic in perpetuity. Because of my dream to help future Northwest Catholic students, I am, in a very special way, part of the Northwest Catholic family.

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