Logos: The Magazine of Northwest Catholic High School

THE MAGAZINE OF NORTHWEST CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL

S P RIN G/S UMM ER - 2015

Looking Back

Northwest Catholic’s First Graduating Class Celebrates 50th Reunion

L E T TER F ROM THE PRESIDE NT /CHIEF A D M I NI STR ATO R

Dear Friends,

Since I last communicated with you, I wanted to report on some absolutely wonderful academic results. Last year, when we said goodbye to the Class of 2015, we knew they were an extremely strong academic class. What we didn’t know until this past fall, was how truly good they were. They set the all-time record at Northwest Catholic for SAT scores and Advanced Placement test scores – an incredible feat! Many of them went on to their first choice college or university and they have set the bar extremely high for those classes to come.

After 28 years, the school now has a brand new roof, adding to the many capital improvements we have made over the past three years. Our environmental footprint has been reduced significantly with the new roof, new windows and doors, and a completely new heating system using natural gas. The next big initiative will be synthetic turf on our athletic fields. New laws concerning fertilizer and pesticides have made it tougher and tougher to maintain a quality grass playing surface that can stand up to our multiple teams using them each day.

We are currently in full swing recruiting our next freshman class, the Class of 2020! Our goal is to enroll 150 9th graders next year and keep our enrollment right around 600 students. The first year of our iPad initiative has gone very well! Gone are the days of students walking around with 50 pounds of books in their backpacks!

Spring sports are in full swing, and our spring concert and dance show will be here before you know it! Stop by and catch a game or a show if you are in the area. We would love to say hello! Have a wonderful 2016!

David C. Eustis President & Chief Administrator

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Contents SPRI NG/ SU M M E R- 2 0 1 5

g n i k Loo Back About t he Cove r Th

is cover fe atures pho tos from the 1965 e dition of the Northwest Catholic Yea rbook Nowe ca.

From left to right – Rich ard Ryter ’65 and Bo b Czarney ’6 Wall ’65; the 1964-1 5; Tom 965 Boys’ Basketball tea Rev. Bradfo m; NWC Principal rd Colton; S Gilbert and Phil Lawto r. Mary n ’65; and Jim Tolve ’65

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NORTHWEST CATHOLIC HOLDS 51ST COMMENCEMENT

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NWC DRAMATEURS’ PRODUCTIONS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE

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NWC HOSTS 8TH ANNUAL JAZZ CABARET NIGHT

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ALUMNI ATHLETICS

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NWC WEDDINGS:

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THE 1961 SOCIETY

Look Who Got Married!

DEPARTMENTS

Send us your e-mail address!

Help us cut down on paper and postage, while still keeping you posted about NWC news.

Send to jleary@nwcath.org.

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NEWS FROM 29 WAMP

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ADVANCEMENT NEWS

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SPORTS NEWS

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ALUMNI NEWS

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E D ITO R ' S NOTE

LOGOS 50 years! Fifty has been the theme of many issues of Logos over the last few years – the 50th anniversary of Northwest Catholic’s founding, the school’s 50th graduating class, and now the 50th reunion of NWC’s first graduating class. Over one hundred people turned out for this great event. Be sure to check out the photos, beginning on page 5.

We’re also looking forward in this issue – as Northwest Catholic rolls out a brand new mascot – the Lion. Learn more about this transition beginning on page 10.

As always, thank you to all the alumni who submitted content for this issue – it is wonderful sharing your updates with the wider Northwest Catholic community. Keep them coming!

The Greek word 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 effective 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 twice a year by the Communications Department of Northwest Catholic High School. Please send comments or suggestions to: Kimberly Sanders Spera ’03 Northwest Catholic High School 29 Wampanoag Drive, West Hartford, CT 06117 860.236.4221 x133 kspera@nwcath.org Editor: Kimberly Sanders Spera ’03 President/Chief Administrator: David Eustis Design: GO media

UPCOMING EVENTS

Photography: John Alissi

Malta House of Care

SPRING INSTRUMENTAL AND CHORAL CONCERT

Art Rich Photography

Kate Morran

Sara Avery

Noweca

Alexandra Taylor Billick ’02

Politico

May 17 at 7pm

Keith Blum

Lindsey Pelletier Ramsdell ’02

Ken Carpenter ’65

RDK Photography

ART SHOW AND DANCE RECITAL

Ashley Combs ’05

Jeff Slomski ’02

May 19th at 6:30pm and 7:30pm

Katiria Delgado ’00

Kimberly Sanders Spera ’03

Tara Doyle

Will Stanwick ’15

David Eustis

Mark Sullivan ’75

Melissa DeLeon Foryan ’02

Chris Thorner ’02

Bob Gagnier ’65

Lily Vincens ’15

G&B Photography

Jessica Stone Wile ’02

Rivkah Freeman-Dasent Harding ’06

Margaret Williamson

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CLASS OF 1966 50 REUNION TH

June 4th

RELAY FOR LIFE

Hartford Courant

June 11th - June 12th

Gabriela Hoefer ’15 Jane Leary

39TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Miriam O’Leary Maloney ’95

June 14th

4TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP SCAMPER 5K June 25th

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK In an effort to go green, the Northwest Catholic Annual Report will now appear online only.

To view it, visit: www.NorthwestCatholic.org/AnnualReport

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SE ARCH FOR :

Northwest Catholic High School!

OR VISIT:

www.Facebook.Com/Pages/NorthwestCatholic-High-School/157439657624549

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COV ER STORY

Looking Catholic’s back: Northwest First Graduating Class Celebrates 50th Reunion Members of Northwest Catholic High School’s first graduating class, the Class of 1965, returned to their Alma Mater on June 6, 2015 to celebrate their 50th reunion. One hundred ten alumni and guests toured the school to see how things had changed over the last 50 years.

“The additions to the school are amazing, and the physical plant in general is in great shape,” said Cathy Zunner Kennelly ’65.

Mass was then celebrated by the Rev. Chris Cleary, C.P. in the Rev. Bradford Colton Memorial Atrium and deceased members of the Class of 1965 were remembered. After Mass, the event

moved to Wampanoag Country Club, where the alumni enjoyed an evening of food, fun, dancing and renewing old friendships.

“It was so much fun reconnecting with classmates, some of whom I immediately recognized and some of whom I definitely needed help from the name tags,” said Kennelly.

“The NWC 50th reunion was perfect from start to finish,” said Kathi Johnson Barry ’65. “Our name tags with our yearbook picture on it were perfect… Now that the pace has been set we wish the following classes a fabulous time at their 50th.”

The 50th r eunion o f the Class of 1965!

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brated in Mass is cele rd Colton fo d the Rev. Bra trium.

Memorial A

ol teachers – 65’s high scho 19 of s as Cl e d Ron Ferrii.

Some of th e Callahan an Le , ey rn Ca Dan Members of the Class of 1965 tour the halls of Northwest Catholic.

Class of 1965 Challenged to Create 50th Reunion Scholarship As part of the 50th reunion of the Class of 1965, Laura Connelly Allen ’65 and her husband, Richard, offered a challenge to the class. They would make a $50,000 gift to the Northwest Catholic endowment if the Class of ’65 collectively donated $50,000 to create the “50 th Reunion Scholarship!” The 50 th Reunion Scholarship Fund will be used in the year the funds are received to award financial assistance in the form of annual scholarships to students who would otherwise be unable to afford a NWC education. Each succeeding 50th Reunion Class will have the opportunity to increase the funds available for the 50th Reunion Scholarship Fund.

“Our class has a unique opportunity to perpetuate a tradition we began in 1961 – we can continue to be trailblazers and leaders for all those classes who have succeeded us,” said Laura Connelly Allen ’65. “We were the first class to enter NWC as expectant, nervous freshmen; the first to learn in its classrooms and laboratories; the first to attend Mass in its chapel; the first to publish Northwest Passages and NOWECA; the first to perform on its stage and to applaud those who did; the first to compete on NWC’s playing fields and courts and to cheer those athletes on; and the first to graduate as mature, confident seniors in 1965.

What better way to celebrate and give back to Northwest Catholic than to make the privilege of attending NWC possible for more of today’s students?”

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We are very happy and grateful to report that due to the generosity of the Allens and many members of the Class of 1965, the 50th Reunion Challenge was achieved! Thank you to all those who contributed! The Class of ’65 has again distinguished itself in giving back to NWC and in establishing a wonderful tradition for future 50th Reunion classes to follow.

Laura Connelly Allen '65

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Graduation Day Memories

by Richard Hussey ’65 My recollection of graduation day (perhaps fittingly enough) centers around an historic NWC sports memory.

Northwest’s first graduation day dawned bright and beautiful on that day in June of 1965, but is was doubly memorable, because on that day Charlie Larson’s Indians were set to face off against Farmington High in the CIAC Class B State Championship baseball final at Muzzy Field in Bristol. A historic day in the NWC sports annals, the Indians were making their first appearance in a state championship game – in just their second season of varsity competition.

The Indians entered their first state championship game with a glittering 15-3 record, including eight straight wins en route to the title game.

Though he struck out four batters, Brad Behan ’65 was slightly off form in the two plus innings he pitched, surrendering four hits and three runs. Farmington took a 1-0 lead in the first and extended its lead to 2-0 in the second. Behan’s afternoon ended when a lead-off homer in the third made it 3-0.

Charlie Larson handed the ball to lefty Pete Curran ’65, who was sensational in relief, shutting the Farmington Indians down the rest of the way, striking out nine, while walking none, and giving up a lone single in the third in his five innings of work. Meanwhile, Northwest hit the ball hard that afternoon – though right at Farmington defenders.

The Indians threatened often in the later stages of the game, managing to leave 10 on base. NWC went down to a bitter 3-0 loss.

What else do I remember about the rest of that day? A quiet bus ride home to the Northwest campus, followed by a mad scramble to make

graduation at the Cathedral of St. Joseph. As I roared up Albany Avenue in my trusty 1960 Ford Falcon, I managed to blow the clutch at the stop light near St. Mary’s. Abandoning the car, I must have hitch-hiked the rest of the way (although I cannot say for sure). Memories are selective, no?

Richard Hussey ’65 was the co-sports editor for Northwest Passages, and was the NWC correspondent for the Hartford Courant – handling varsity game reporting for the Hartford Courant. He went on to a career in the sports media industry: first at Fordham University as an undergrad in the sports information office, and then after graduation as the assistant director of public information at Wesleyan University. A six year stint as an assistant commissioner for the Eastern College Athletic Conference followed, before he made the move to the electronic sports media industry, capped off with a 25-year run at NBC Sports, where he earned five Emmy awards (four for Olympic coverage, and one for the NBA on NBC).

Northwest Catholic Memories Noreen Sylvester Guildner ’65 One of my memories was being part of our Glee Club. Sister Dolores was the director and did a marvelous job with our group. It was definitely a challenge but she was marvelous! One of our star singers was Virgina Cocolla, who passed away at a very young age. She had a beautiful soprano voice!

On the light side, all of us girls would roll those green skirts over our knees on the bus but before walking into school roll them down to regulation length! Heads would roll if Father Colton caught us!

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In 1965…

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WE ARE THE LIONS In October of 2015, Northwest Catholic began a new chapter in its history, ending a 50-year association with the mascot and team name “Indians” and becoming the “Lions” for all sports teams and events. The change followed 2-3 years of research and discussion within the school community, as momentum grew among groups of students, school leaders and alumni who believed that “Lions” was more in keeping with Northwest Catholic’s mission statement. One student of Native American descent said simply, “We are people, not mascots.”

The final look of the Northwest Catholic Lion was determined by a student-led design contest, with more than two dozen entries submitted. The winning design was created by Kai Fleming ’18, who worked with Vie’s design team to digitize the image. The logo will be added to athletic uniforms as the uniforms need replacing.

“It’s exciting to be part of this historic change,” said Northwest Catholic Student Council President Matthew Sottile ’16. “I think this new sense of identity is going to bring about an even greater sense of school pride.”

“When I was notified that I won the contest for the school mascot I was ecstatic,” Fleming said.

“Without the support of my friends and family, I wouldn’t have accomplished this.”

Voting Day

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“IT’S EXCITING TO BE PART OF THIS HISTORIC CHANGE” Student Council President Matthew Sottile ’16

Winning design created by Kai Fleming ’18

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N E WS FROM WAM P NORTHWEST CATHOLIC HOLDS 51ST COMMENCEMENT Most Rev. Peter A. Rosazza, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Hartford, presided at the 51st graduation ceremony of Northwest Catholic High School on Wed., June 3, at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Hartford.

The commencement began at 7:30 pm with the procession of the 141 members of the Class of 2015. James Jordano ’15 of Avon was the valedictorian, and Sarah McLaughlin ’15 of Suffield was the salutatorian. Rev. Henry C. Frascadore, Past President of Northwest Catholic, delivered the Commencement address.

honors (a 3.67 cumulative GPA) and thirty-two graduated with honors (a 3.33 cumulative GPA). The graduates come from 26 towns across Connecticut.

The class included one National Merit Finalist; eight other students honored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation; seven students who were named “Summa Scholars” by the Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Hartford; four Division I athletes; and eighteen students who plan to play Division II or III sports in college.

“As we bid goodbye to these 141 wonderful graduates, we feel confident knowing that we have laid the groundwork for them to continue their journey to higher education,” states Northwest Catholic High School President and Chief Administrator David Eustis. “They have grown from freshmen four years ago to young adults that have studied their faith, excelled in athletics, performed on stage, and left a mark on their community.” Mr. Eustis also recognized several members of the Northwest Catholic class of 1965, the first class in school history to celebrate its 50th reunion.

Rev. Frascadore challenged the students to consider an important question “What would you do for the world if you could do anything?” He told the graduates that each of them is “matchless” and “incomparable to every other human being that ever was or that ever will be” and that they should use their minds, bodies, imagination, senses and spirit to “become the person that God intends you to be”.

Salutatorian Sarah McLaughlin opened the ceremony by encouraging her classmates to remember all the wonderful times they have had together. She stated that “Our memories are amazing because of the NWC community, which gave us more than an education; we were given inspiration to grow academically and spiritually, and we were given courage to meet new people.”

Valedictorian James Jordano quoted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “If you cannot fly, then run; if you cannot run, then walk; if you cannot walk, then crawl – but by all means, keep moving.” James encouraged his classmates to learn from Dr. King and fashion their lives in a way that they might one day be quotable too and have achieved something great.

The vast majority – 98% – of the graduating class are attending college, at such schools as Emory University, Williams College, Tufts University, the University of Notre Dame, Villanova University, Clemson University, Pepperdine University, Boston College, Boston University, to name just a few. Forty-six graduated with highest

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NORTHWEST CATHOLIC’S JOHN CAREW NAMED GOVERNOR’S SCHOLAR John Carew ’16 has been named a 2015 Governor’s Scholar – one of only 30 juniors in the state to receive this prestigious honor.

Carew, the son of John and Kirsten Carew of Simsbury, was chosen from a pool of academically outstanding juniors from throughout Connecticut. The students, who were nominated by their principals, must rank in the top 5% of their class, must complete an essay, and must submit scores from standardized tests. The winners are chosen by a committee of professional educators selected by the Connecticut Association of Schools, which sponsors the program.

Carew is active in numerous extracurricular activities at Northwest Catholic, including the Mock Trial Team, Model UN, Unified Theater and Relay for Life. He is also a member of the Cross Country and Indoor and Outdoor Track teams and the National Honor Society. In addition, Carew serves as an International Student Ambassador.

“We are delighted that John has been recognized for his outstanding scholarship,” said Northwest Catholic Principal Margaret Williamson. “He is an integral part of the Northwest Catholic community and we all congratulate him.”

The Governor’s Scholars were honored at a luncheon at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington on May 21, 2015. Carew is the fifth Northwest Catholic student since 2003 to receive this award and the second to receive the award in the past two years. Sarah McLaughlin ’15 was named a 2014 Governor’s Scholar.

John Carew ’16 with (left to right): Rita McDougald-Campbell, Governor’s Scholars Committee Chair and Donna Schilke, President of the Connecticut Association of Schools and Principal, Smith Middle School in Glastonbury.

NORTHWEST CATHOLIC STUDENTS GET FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE WITH THE DANGERS OF DISTRACTED DRIVING Northwest Catholic partnered with the Distracted Driving Program, a subsidiary of the National Save A Life Tour, for a special presentation to students on the dangers of distracted driving on December 18, 2014. The presentation began with a school-wide assembly featuring videos of accident scenes and testimony from people who have been involved in distracted driving accidents – both distracted drivers who caused the accidents and families of victims who have been either killed or permanently injured in distracted driving accidents.

Throughout the day, juniors and seniors used interactive simulators to experience firsthand what can happen when a person drives while distracted. Using the simulators, students would drive through various locales, receiving a text message every 30 seconds that required an answer. According to the Save A Life Tour, it takes an average of 4.6 seconds to read and respond to a text message. Someone traveling at 55mph would travel about 100 yards – the length of a football field – in the time it takes to answer a text.

Most of the students found the simulators challenging, with many students crashing their vehicles during their test drive. Those students who did not crash frequently broke many traffic laws during their drive – running red lights or stop signs, swerving into oncoming traffic, or driving off the road onto the shoulder or sidewalks.

Ryan Sands '15 attempts to text while driving a simulator.

“This was a tremendous opportunity to educate our students in a very realistic and meaningful way about a behavior that is frequently deadly and often tragic,” said Academic Dean John Cusson. “Having the juniors and seniors actually experience in the simulator a loss of concentration which led to their inability to control their vehicle or have an accident really brought home the dangers of distracted driving.”

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NWC DRAMATEURS’ PRODUCTIONS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE From December 5 through December 7, 2014, NWC’s Dramateurs presented Metamorphoses by Mary Zimmerman. Metamorphoses brings Ovid’s epic poem of mythology to stunning visual life. Set in and around a large pool of water onstage, the play juxtaposes the ancient and the contemporary in both language and image to reflect the variety and persistence of narrative in the face of inevitable change. The production featured an ensemble of over two dozen students in multiple roles and was directed by Sara Avery.

Both Metamorphoses and Once on this Island were honored at the 12th Annual HALO Awards, which recognize excellence in high school theater. As a program, the Dramateurs were nominated in fifteen categories total – with three nominations for Metamorphoses (including Best Acting by a Cast in an Ensemble Production) and twelve nominations for Once on this Island (including Best Contemporary Musical and six acting nominations). Once on This Island won “Best Chorus” and Sarah McLaughlin ’15 was selected as “Gypsy of the Year.” The gypsy award recognizes a member of the ensemble who shines both on and off stage but is not necessarily the leading actor/ actress. This distinction is a tradition on both the professional and educational stage.

This production marked the 10th anniversary of the first time Metamorphoses was staged at Northwest Catholic. To mark the occasion, several members of the 2004 cast attended a reception prior to the December 6th performance and shared stories with current cast members after the performance.

In the spring of 2015, the Dramateurs presented the musical Once on This Island. The musical tells the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl, who rescues a wealthy boy from the other side of the island, Daniel, with whom she falls in love. Unbeknownst to Ti Moune, the pompous gods who preside over the island make a bet with one another over which is stronger, love or death, the stakes being Ti Moune’s life.

The show featured Lauren Mangine ’16 as Ti Moune, John Sullivan ’18 as Daniel, Alexandra Murillo ’15 as Asaka (Mother of the Earth), David Ogbonna ’17 as Agwe (God of Water), Olivia Fenton ’15 as Erzulie (Goddess of Love), Elijah Warner ’17 as Papa Ge (God of Death), Jacquelyn Collas ’16 as Mama Euralie and Anthony Lenczewski ’16 as Ton Ton Julian. The production was directed by Sara Avery, with choreography by Kate Morran.

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CASUAL DAYS FOR CHARITY For the 2014-2015 school year, Northwest Catholic implemented a monthly casual day for charity. One day each month, usually the last Friday of the month, students would be able to dress in casual clothes if they donated at least $2 to the school’s chosen charity. Over the course of the year, the school raised over $7700 for charity, including

Ramone Clahar ’15, Allison Coffey ’15, NWC staff member Debra LeBel, NWC President David Eustis, NWC school nurse Marilyn Adamo, Kathleen Waterston ’15 and David Kalamarides ’15 present Amy Griffin Buzzell ’97 (center), Director of Special Events, Grants and Operations for the Saint Francis Foundation, with a check for St. Francis Hospital’s Comprehensive Women’s Health Center.

Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, St. Francis Hospital’s Comprehensive Women’s Health Center, St. Francis Hospital’s Men’s Health Institute, Marycare Nigeria, the Connecticut Chapter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Helping Hands, Trumpets Not Guns and the Malta House of Care Foundation.

NWC President David Eustis, NWC teacher Sara Avery and NWC Director of Finance Richard Puskarz present NAMI Connecticut Communications Manager Thomas Burr (second from right) with a check for NAMI Connecticut.

NWC STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO BE PART OF THE BULLYING SOLUTION “Laws cannot fix bullying; you can.” That was the message of John Halligan to students at Northwest Catholic. In two separate presentations on April 8, Halligan spoke to students and parents about bullying, cyberbullying and depression. Halligan lost his son, Ryan, to suicide on October 7, 2003 at the age of 13. At the time of his death, Ryan was a student at a middle school in Vermont. It was revealed in great detail after Ryan’s death that he was ridiculed and humiliated by peers at school and on-line. In memory of his son and in just a few months after Ryan’s death, Halligan spearheaded the Vermont Bullying Prevention law in 2004. He also led the passing of a law in 2006 pertaining to suicide prevention education in public schools.

Halligan told students not to be bystanders, but to be up-standers – to call friends out when they’re being a bully and to encourage friends to get help when they’re being bullied or dealing with depression. He also encouraged students “not to forget that you are loved by more people than you think.”

We had an opportunity to remind students that they are loved and that they have the power to stop bullying and meanness.”

Kevin Dudley ’15 said Halligan’s story motivated him and some of his friends to sit with students at lunch who otherwise sit alone, noting that students often don’t know what other students are going through. “The presentation got people to wake up and get involved with other people,” he said.

Mia Christie ’15 called the presentation one of the best ones she’s seen throughout her four years of high school. “He was very real and very straightforward about his experiences,” she said. “It really showed how one person can make a difference in the world.”

In his evening presentation to parents, Halligan shared some of what he considers the mistakes he and his wife made when it came to how they handled their son being bullied. He also spoke about ways parents can take a more active role in their children’s online lives and monitor for incidents of cyberbullying.

“Mr. Halligan’s presentation was as real and heartfelt as it could be,” said Northwest Catholic Principal Margaret Williamson. “You had to come away feeling sad for his family and yet, moved to try to make a difference.

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Halligan has been outspoken about the need for more education and prevention of bullying, cyber bullying and teen suicide throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America. He and his wife Kelly have appeared on several national TV programs including Primetime with Diane Sawyer, PBS Frontline and Oprah.

More information is available at www.RyanPatrickHalligan.org.

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STUDENT DIRECTORS TAKE THE HELM OF ONE-ACT PLAYS

For the 2014-2015 school year, NWC students took on the challenge of directing their peers for the Dramateurs’ one-act plays.

In October 2014, Charles Faselle ’15 and Olivia Fenton ’15 directed a one-act, comedic adaptation of Homer’s epic The Odyssey. In Tom Smith’s adaptation of the classic work, Odysseus (Anthony Lenczewski ’16) and his crewman Pete (Charles Gfeller ’18) must overcome many perils on their long voyage home from Troy, including an awkward teenage Cyclops named Polly, some Sirens crooning elevator music, and various other gods and monsters. Along the way, they both learn some hard lessons in trust, humility, and the power of brains over brawn.

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In February 2015, Haley Higgins ’15 and Jacquelyn Collas ’16 directed Carolyn Lane’s adaptation of Tales of Hans Christian Andersen. From an assortment of surprise packages come some very special gifts – the gifts of storyteller Hans Christian Andersen to the children of the world. Out of a bright birthday box steps “The Steadfast Tin Soldier” to tell of his undying love for a paper dancing doll. From a basket of eggs comes the well-loved story of “The Ugly Duckling.” The trio of tales concludes with the touching romance of “The Little Mermaid” who loves a human – the story discovered in an ancient sea chest.

Both productions featured the talents of over a dozen NWC students.

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ARCHDIOCESE NAMES SEVEN NORTHWEST CATHOLIC STUDENTS AS “SUMMA SCHOLARS” Seven outstanding seniors from Northwest Catholic were named “Summa Scholars” by Dr. Dale R. Hoyt, Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Hartford, in recognition of superior academic achievement.

Each Summa Scholar was invited to name the teacher from a Catholic elementary or secondary school who had been the most influential in the student’s education. These teachers were also honored during the ceremony.

To qualify for the award, which was given to 54 seniors from the eight Catholic high schools in the Archdiocese of Hartford, students needed to be in the top 5% of their graduating class through the first semester of grade 12. The students were honored during a ceremony and reception at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield on April 27.

Northwest Catholic’s Summa Scholars, and the teachers they selected, are:

Back row (from left to right): Summa Scholars Brendan Fahey ’15, Anna Case ’15, James Jordano ’15, Ryan Sands ’15, Abigail Visintainer ’15, Sarah McLaughlin ’15 and Caitlin Nicholas ’15 Front row (from left to right): Honored teachers Joan KeatingMcKeon, Deborah Metzler, Ronald Swanson, Ana Barrett and Sister Angela Marie Castellani, F.S.E.

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Anna Case of Glastonbury – enrolled at Colgate University; honored Deborah Metzler, NWC Math teacher

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Brendan Fahey of Enfield – enrolled at Tufts University; honored Joan Keating-McKeon, NWC English teacher

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James Jordano of Avon – enrolled at Emory University; honored Ronald Swanson, NWC Latin teacher

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Sarah McLaughlin of Suffield – enrolled at Williams College; honored Ana Barrett, NWC Spanish teacher

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Caitlin Nicholas of Avon – enrolled at Boston College; honored Sister Angela Marie Castellani, F.S.E., NWC Religion teacher

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Ryan Sands of Avon – enrolled at Brandeis University; honored Deborah Metzler, NWC Math teacher

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Abigail Visintainer of Burlington – enrolled at Hamilton College; honored Deborah Metzler, NWC Math teacher

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.”

The students presented certificates of recognition to their mentor teacher.

GET YOUR NEWS LIVE ON TWITTER Now you can stay connected and updated on all the News from 29 Wamp, just follow @NWC_NEWS

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NORTHWEST CATHOLIC HONORS SERVICE OF U.S. VETERANS Northwest Catholic’s celebration of Veterans Day began early in 2014, as the school honored six alumni and one former faculty member for their past and current service in the United States Armed Forces at the Homecoming Football Game on October 18, 2014.

Those honored during the special halftime ceremony include former NWC teacher Ron Ferri (Army), Kenneth Cahill ’65 (Air Force), John King ’65 (Army), Barry Lazlo ’65 (Navy), Chris Gauthier ’82 (Navy), Raul Castro ’13 (Army) and Jesse McLain ’14 (Army).

Castro was represented by his mother, Norma Rodriguez.

“Veterans make up an important segment of our alumni base, and we were thrilled that they came back to see us so that we could thank them for their service to the country” said Northwest Catholic President and Chief Administrator David Eustis.

That recognition continued on November 11, 2014, when Northwest Catholic welcomed two U.S. veterans for a special Veterans Day assembly. Colonel Kelly Murray, USA ’83 and Commander Ray Fitzgerald, USNR, Ret. ’84 addressed the students about their own experiences in the military and how that influenced their lives.

Colonel Murray entered active duty in 1987 with a Regular Army Commission in the Medical Services Corps, graduating as Distinguished Military Graduate from Drake University with a B.S. in Biology. She received her M.D. in 1992 from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and is presently attending the Navy’s Senior Service College in Newport, RI where she is earning a Master of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies.

Colonel Murray spoke about her role in the military as a physician on her deployments to Iraq and Korea – both in treating the sick and wounded as well as training both soldiers and civilians in a variety of medical areas. What she loves most about her work, she said, is that its impact lasts far beyond the time she spends treating a patient or training medical personnel; it changes the lives of those she helps heal and improves the lives of civilians in the countries she serves in through better-trained medical personnel and better-staffed medical facilities. Colonel Murray said her military service around the world has also taught her that while people might speak a different language, practice a different religion, or dress differently, they are all fundamentally the same.

Commander Fitzgerald was awarded a US Navy ROTC Scholarship in 1986 and graduated from the Catholic University of America in 1988. He was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy that same year. Cdr. Fitzgerald was a US naval aviator from 19902013, flying over 3000 hours and making 200 carrier landings with planes including the A-6E Intruder and F/A-18 Hornet. He also was the Aviation Director for Navy Special Warfare Development Group from 2005-2008. Cdr. Fitzgerald is now retired from the Navy and is the founder and President of BroadBay Group, a Special Mission Aviation company.

Cdr. Fitzgerald talked to students about his experience landing planes on aircraft carriers as well as his work as a pilot for the Navy SEALS. He also spoke about the training his company provides and the technology it helps develop for the military, telling the story of one Navy SEAL who told Fitzgerald that the training BroadBay

(From left to right): John King ’65, Barry Lazlo ’65, Kenneth Cahill ’65, NWC President/Chief Administrator David Eustis, Charles Faselle ’15, Chris Gauthier ’82, NWC Athletic Director Matthew Martorelli ’03, Norma Rodriguez, Alexandra Hernandez, Jesse McLain ’14, and Ron Ferri

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Group provided him saved his life and the lives of his team in the field. Cdr. Fitzgerald said stories like that affirm that his work and commitment to the military are making a difference in people’s lives.

“We were so proud to welcome back to Northwest Catholic these two great alumni,” said Eustis. “They embody the word ‘service’ and we cannot thank them enough for everything they have done for our country.”

During the course of the day, Northwest Catholic students also wrote personalized “thank you” cards to the dozens of Northwest Catholic alumni who are veterans.

Commander Ray Fitzgerald, USNR, Ret. ’84 shows a video illustrating the work of a naval aviator.

Colonel Kelly Murray, USA ’83 discusses her work as a physician in a war zone.

NWC HOSTS 8TH ANNUAL JAZZ CABARET NIGHT The NWC Music Department held the eighth annual Jazz Cabaret Night on May 9, 2015. The sold-out event included performances by NWC's Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Singers, Jazz Combo, Jazz Orchestra and Big Band, with guest performances by NWC faculty members Dan Avery ’97, Sara Avery and Kate Morran. There were gourmet desserts, coffee, and a silent auction, all helping to raise funds to support the Music Department activities.

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NORTHWEST CATHOLIC CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH Northwest Catholic welcomed Louisiana saxophonist, composer and bandleader Calvin Johnson Jr. for a special Black History Month presentation on February 24, 2015. He spoke about jazz music, its origins in New Orleans and the importance of music in the lives of young people.

Johnson called jazz music “the only true American art form,” citing its origins in New Orleans. He spoke about the role musicians played in helping develop and spread jazz around the world over the last century and how that role continues today as musicians share their knowledge and talent with young people, saying, “Mentoring is how jazz has been passed down through the generations.”

Johnson also performed some jazz music with several Northwest Catholic student-musicians and the students participated in a New Orleans-style second line musical parade through the auditorium.

NWC musicians jam in New Orleans’ Musicians’ Village.

“We are very blessed to have the opportunity to host Calvin Johnson Jr. as a presenter during Black History Month,” said Elizabeth Lynch Oates ’94, Dean of Students and Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department. “Mr. Johnson’s presentation was dynamic and truly brought the feeling of New Orleans and jazz to our school. His message of the continuity of Jazz Music through cultural tradition, community and mentoring reverberated with our students and was an inspiration to our music students as they embarked on their service project with Trumpets Not Guns.”

Johnson is a clinician with the Jazz Foundation of America, has served as a faculty member of the Louis Armstrong Summer Jazz Camp, and is an active supporter of music in New Orleans and the youth of that city through the non-profit “Trumpets Not Guns,” which works to help local schools and other music foundations provide instruments for children in the hopes of keeping them away from violence. The Northwest Catholic Music Department collected more than 100 instruments and raised over $3000 for Trumpets Not Guns. Northwest Catholic music students traveled to New Orleans in March of 2015 and presented the instruments to the students of the Ellis Marsalis Center.

NWC Instrumental Music Director Daniel Luddy ’03 and musicians Emily Driscoll ’17 and Megan Grandell ’16 with the first recipient of NWC’s donated instruments and his mother.

NWC musicians with students at a New Orleans school. The students were recipients of many of the donated instruments.

Calvin Johnson Jr. performs with Northwest Catholic student-musicians.

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KUDOS TO...

The NWC school winners of the American Mathematics Contest – held on February 25th and sponsored by the Mathematics Association of America. In the AMC 10, given to 9th and 10th graders, Katharine Jessen ’17 took first place. Rounding out the top 5, in order, were Yiwei Yuan ’17, Sarah Jessen ’17, Zachary Kozar ’17 and Gabriela Doskos ’17. In the AMC 12, given to 11th and 12th graders, David Kalamarides ’15 and Guangkuo Liu ’16 tied for first place.

They were followed by Brendan Fahey ’15, James Jordano ’15 and John Carew ’16.

Kalamarides was awarded a special medal by the Mathematics Association of America for winning the AMC 12 two years in a row.

The 77 students inducted into the National Honor Society on January 8, 2015. To be invited into membership in NHS, students must maintain a 3.5 grade-point average and must demonstrate exemplary character, leadership, and service to their school, parish, or town.

The staff of the 2014 edition of Northwest Catholic’s yearbook, Noweca, which was awarded First Place in the American Scholastic Press Association’s Annual Review and Contest Awards. The 2014 yearbook was edited by Katherine Marti ’14 and Kristen Marti ’14.

The NWC Big Band, which earned the distinction of Honorable Mention at the Berklee High School Jazz Festival in Boston on January 31, 2015. Individual Judge’s Choice Awards were also presented to Olivia Fenton ’15 of the Jazz Singers and Sarah Jessen ’17 of the Big Band.

The NWC students, faculty and staff who donated to the freshman toy drive in December 2014.

Hundreds of toys were collected and distributed to families in need in the Greater Hartford area.

The six NWC French students who earned ratings of silver medal and honorable mention on the National French Exam.

The NWC Relay for Life team, which raised over $3500 for the Relay for Life held at NWC in June 2015.

Members of the NWC Jazz Choir, who performed in the Annual Vocal and Instrumental Jazz Ensemble Recital Series at the legendary Apollo Theater in New York City on April 11, 2015. The group was one of only eleven to perform in the event and had to submit video recordings in order to be considered for the performance.

Meredith Oakley ’17, who was selected as the winning designer for the Hartford County 4-H Camp’s Birthday T-Shirt Design Contest, in honor of the camp’s 50th birthday.

The 20 NWC Latin students who earned ratings of cum laude, magna cum laude, maxima cum laude or summa cum laude on the 2015 National Latin exam. More than 150,000 students took the exam this year.

The NWC students, faculty and staff who supported the 2014 NWC Turkey Drive and Thanksgiving Food Drive. The school collected $7,620 for turkeys - a new record and almost $100 more than the previous year - plus cartons of canned and boxed food and fresh vegetables for the Catholic Worker House’s Thanksgiving Food Boxes.

Matthew Masciocchi ’15 and Emma Barnes ’16, who were named Rising Stars in the West Hartford Press. They were chosen for academic excellence, service within the school community, and leadership qualities.

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The donors to NWC’s two Red Cross blood drives. Fifty donors came to the fall drive and 70 donors turned out for the spring drive.

Aaron Belletsky ’18 of West Granby, whose poetry was featured in the book, A Celebration of Poets (Summer 2014). Inspired by his summer vacation to Maine, Belletsky’s poem “The Beach” was judged to be a high merit poem by a panel of teachers and educators from among other entries submitted by students all across North America. Less than 50 percent of the submissions are accepted for publication.

Justin Drisdelle ’15 and Miranda Matos ’15, who were NWC’s honorees at the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) High School Outstanding Arts Awards Banquet, which honors two seniors from each Connecticut high school for their excellence in the arts.

The 40 students inducted into the World Language Societies on May 20, 2015. Students were honored for their achievements in Latin, French, Spanish and Chinese. This year marked the inauguration of the Chinese Honor Society.

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IN THE CLASS OF 2015, 26 STUDENTS EARN FIRST HONORS EVERY SEMESTER In the Class of 2015, 26 students belong to an exclusive community of scholarship: They earned First Honors (a minimum 3.67 grade-point-average) in every semester at Northwest Catholic. These students, along with many others in grades 9-12, were recognized for this accomplishment at the Honors Breakfast in March 2015, where the guest speaker was Dr. Anita McIlveen Kelsey ’82, Director of Echocardiography, Medical Director of the Hoffman Heart School of Cardiac Ultrasound and the Director of the Phillips Women’s Heart Program at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

Kneeling: Robert Place ’15 Front row (left to right): Cameron Young ’15, Logan Wolf ’15, Adam Vancisin ’15, Caitlin O’Sullivan ’15, Sarah McLaughlin ’15, James Jordano ’15, Jessica Jordano ’15, Brendan Fahey ’15, Kathryn Doyle ’15, Grace Hayes ’15, Taryn Loftus and Angela Miguel ’15

Back row (left to right): Abigail Visintainer ’15, Dr. Anita McIlveen Kelsey ’82, Alicia Susi ’15, Michael Valentine ’15, Michael Pascoal ’15, Ryan Sands ’15, Shannon Greene ’15, Sean Kearns ’15, David Kalamarides ’15, Justin Drisdelle ’15, Anna Case ’15, Kyle Brooks ’15, Christopher Allen ’15 and NWC President/Chief Administrator David Eustis.

Not pictured: Caitlin Nicholas ’15

SUPPORT NWC WHILE YOU SHOP Want an easy way to support Northwest Catholic, at no additional cost to you? Now you can support us when you shop on Amazon. Visit https://smile.amazon.com/ and log-in to your Amazon account. Then select the Northwest Catholic High School Foundation as your charitable organization and go shopping.

Northwest Catholic will receive 0.5% of every eligible purchase. Just make sure you do your shopping through https://Smile.Amazon.com/, not amazon.com.

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NWC STUDENT-MUSICIANS SHARE TALENTS AROUND THE STATE AND COUNTRY NWC student-musicians have been busy sharing their talents in elite performing groups around Connecticut and the United States.

Seven NWC student-musicians performed as members of the 2014 Connecticut Music Educators Association’s Northern Region ensembles. Kyle Brooks ’15 performed in the Band, while Kevin Kearns ’16 performed in the Jazz Band. Katharine Jessen ’17, Sarah Jessen ’17, and Ying Jiang ’16 all performed in the Orchestra. Emily Driscoll ’17 and Ryan Sands ’15 sang in the Choir.

Four NWC student-musicians performed as members of the 2015 Connecticut Music Educators Association’s All-State ensembles. Kevin Kearns ’16 (bass) performed in the Chorus, Katharine Jessen ’17 (clarinet) performed in the Concert Band and Sarah Jessen ’17 (trumpet) and Ying Jiang ’16 (oboe) performed in the Orchestra. Kearns earned the highest score for his vocal section and was part of a select group that sang the National Anthem at the beginning of the concert.

Two NWC student-musicians were selected to perform in the 2015 NAfME All-National Honors Ensembles. Kevin Kearns ’16 (bass) performed in the Mixed Choir and Sarah Jessen ’17 (trumpet) performed in the Symphony Orchestra.

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A DVA NC E M E N T NE WS FOUNDERS’ CIRCLE DINNER HONORS TOP DONORS AND EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING NWC Director of Library and Media Services Helga Phillips was honored with the Rev. Henry C. Frascadore Teaching Chair Award for her professional excellence during the school’s annual Founders’ Circle Dinner on Oct. 1, 2014.

Mrs. Philips came to Northwest Catholic in 2002 and has helped to implement many changes and upgrades in the library and media services area over those years, including the renovation and expansion of the Gelormino Library and John G. Martin Foundation Information Technology Center in 2005. She also founded and moderates the school’s book club and ping pong club!

In her announcement of the 2014 Teaching Chair Award, Principal Margaret Williamson praised Mrs. Phillips, saying, “Her

greatest gifts and contributions to the community are her faith and her patient willingness to help any of us whenever we need it! I know that whenever I need to ask for help on a project or for equipment to accomplish something, she is always ready to make it happen!”

During the dinner, the school honored many of NWC’s most generous benefactors who donated $1,000 or more to the Northwest Catholic Fund in the 2013-2014 fiscal year.

President/Chief Administrator David Eustis thanked the 22 new members of the Founders’ Circle, as well as several people who have been members for at least ten years: Edward E. Guillet ’69, Jeffrey and Maribeth Mortillaro, Robert and Roseanne O’Hara, Ralph Roosevelt ’65 and Jill Roosevelt, and Ana and Winston Barrett.

Current NWC President and Chief Administrator David Eustis (left) and former NWC President Rev. Henry C. Frascadore (right) present NWC Director of Library and Media Services Helga Phillips with the Rev. Henry C. Frascadore Teaching Chair Award.

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FOUR ALUMS AND ONE COACH INDUCTED DURING ELEVENTH ALUMNI ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME CEREMONY NWC’s Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame welcomed its 11th class of outstanding alumni athletes on April 25, 2015 with a special ceremony attended by the inductees’ families, friends, and former coaches and teammates. The members of the 11th Hall of Fame class are: Matthew Hogan ’67 – Matt was a multi-sport athlete during his time at Northwest Catholic, playing baseball as a freshman, basketball as a freshman and sophomore, and football from his sophomore through senior years, as well as running for the track team as a senior. He was a team captain for track and defensive captain for football during his senior year, earning All-Conference honors in football in 1966. Matt also helped start a weightlifting program at Northwest Catholic. Following Northwest Catholic, he ran indoor track and played football at the University of Connecticut. His career took him to the United Nations, where he worked as a Systems Analyst from 1975 to 2009. At the UN, he started a weightlifting club and was a member of the United Nations Soccer League for 10 years. Matt has competed in local weightlifting competitions, track meets, races and triathlons, including running the New York City Marathon three times. He is retired now and lives in New York state.

Larry Hogan ’68 – A talented football player over his four years of high school, Larry also played basketball as a freshman and was a member of the school’s track team his junior and senior years. He was team captain for both the football and track teams his senior year. In his senior year of football, Larry received both All Hartford County Conference and 2nd Team All-State honors and was selected as an alternate in the Nutmeg Bowl All-Star game. In track, he was the team MVP his senior year and qualified for the State Track Meet in shot put, discus and javelin. Following Northwest Catholic, Larry played four years of Division I football at Villanova University. He currently lives in Honolulu, where he is a Senior Staff Instructor for Island Divers Hawaii.

Carolyn Hughes LaMonaca ’75 – A star track athlete and a pioneer for girls’ athletics at Northwest Catholic, Carolyn was a team captain her senior year, also earning the team’s Coaches’ Award. During her time at Northwest Catholic, she set a school record for the 80 yard hurdles and was a member of the school record-setting 4x110 yard relay team. She was also a member of the state champion 4x110 yard relay team in 1975. Carolyn went on to attend Wesleyan University, where she continued to run track, serving as a team captain. She is now retired and lives in Georgia with her husband Frank. They have three sons – Frank, John and Matt.

NWC Principal Margaret Williamson, Matthew Hogan ’67, Franklyn Chang ’86, Carolyn Hughes LaMonaca ’75, Dennis McCormack, Larry Hogan ’68 and NWC Athletic Director Matthew Martorelli ’03

Franklyn Chang ’86 – A talented runner, Franklyn participated in Indoor and Outdoor Track for four years, as well as running Cross Country his junior and senior years and playing soccer his freshman and sophomore years. He was a team captain for Cross Country, Indoor Track and Outdoor Track his senior year, earning All-Conference honors in both Indoor and Outdoor Track his senior year. In 1985, he was recognized at the Hartford Public Invitational as the Best All Around Athlete. Franklyn’s track career continued at Manhattan College in Riverdale, NY, where he was named track team captain and Academic AllAmerican his senior year. After graduating Manhattan College, he went on to earn his MBA from the University of Chicago in 1995. He is currently a Managing Director at Investcorp and lives with his wife, Sandy Lee Chang, in New Haven. They have three children – Naomi, Alexis and Talia.

Dennis McCormack, Honorary Member – After a distinguished running career as a student at East Catholic High School and the College of the Holy Cross, Dennis turned to coaching, serving in a variety of coaching capacities at Northwest Catholic from 1973 to 1977, including Head Coach for the Boys’ and Girls’ Cross Country teams, Head Coach for the Indoor Track team and both Assistant Coach and Head Coach for the Boys’ Outdoor Track team. The 1976 Boys’ Cross Country team won the State Open Championship under Dennis’ leadership.

Following his career at Northwest Catholic, he coached the Men’s Cross Country team at the University of Hartford from 19861989. Dennis is currently an attorney and lives in Tolland, CT.

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NWC HOSTS 3RD ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP SCAMPER 5K ROAD RACE On June 20, 2015, Northwest Catholic High School hosted the Third Annual Scholarship Scamper 5k Road Race, beginning and ending on the Northwest Catholic campus. Nearly 200 runners and walkers of all ages, including alumni representing every decade of NWC’s history, participated in the event. The 5K and its affiliated Adam M. Lawton ’99 Memorial Scholarship raised $18,000 for the Northwest Catholic Fund, providing scholarships for NWC students. The race was followed by a free family picnic and children’s games.

Joseph Doyle ’13 was the overall race winner, while Margaret Molloy ’07 was the top female finisher. For the second year, the top high school student finishers, male and female, were awarded the Adam M. Lawton ’99 Memorial Cup. The 2015 winners of the Lawton Cup were Kathryn Shea ’18 and Adam Vancisin ’15. Complete race results and more photos are available at www.NorthwestCatholic.org/5kScamper.

Be sure to save the date for the Fourth Annual Scholarship Scamper 5k, which will take place on June 25, 2016. Visit www.NorthwestCatholic.org/5kScamper for more details.

Margaret Molloy ’07 is happy to be the first female finisher.

Joseph Doyle ’13 heads to the finish line to win the race for the second year in a row.

Alumni from every decade of NWC’s history took part in the 5K.

Top female high school finishers (from left to right), Caitlin Nicholas ’15 (third place), Christina Colliton ’16 (second place) and Lawton Cup winner Kathryn Shea ‘18 (first place) with members of the Lawton family.

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Top male high school finishers (from left to right), Lawton Cup winner Adam Vancisin ’15 (first place), Brian Waterston ’17 (third place) and Patrick Daly (second place) with members of the Lawton family.

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RAIN DOESN’T HAMPER THE 38TH ANNUAL NWC GOLF TOURNAMENT The threat of rain for the 38th Annual NWC Golf Tournament could not dampen the spirits of its enthusiastic participants and volunteers, who enjoyed another great day at Wampanoag Country Club on June 9, 2015 before a thunderstorm hit in the late afternoon.

The first gross winners enjoy their afternoon on the golf course.

The first net winners are all smiles.

The foursome of Will Lorenz, John Murphy, Steve Wade and John Rusckowski took first gross honors among the golfers, with the team of Steve Merkel, Walter Hussey ’81, Jack Bracken and Mike Rice taking second gross honors.

The team of Phil Bonee ’72, Andy Bonee, Lenny Burke ’72 and Chris Bonee took first net honors, with the foursome of Fran Laffin, Chuck Harding ’71, Pat Terrion and Joe Spalluto taking second net honors.

Eighteen sponsors, over 100 registered golfers, and many live and silent auction donors helped raise over $42,000 for the Northwest Catholic Fund to provide tuition assistance for NWC students. Be sure to save the date for the 39th Annual Golf Tournament, which will be held on the second Tuesday in June – June 14, 2016. It is a great way to reconnect with friends and former teachers and coaches, as well as enjoy the beautiful Wampanoag Country Club golf course. Visit www.NorthwestCatholic.org/Golf for details.

The day’s second gross winners take a break from their game.

The tournament’s second net winners relax on the course.

Many young alumni also attended the tournament, including (left to right) Brendan Fox ’13, Ryan Coursey ’13, Chris Grenham ’13, Walter Hansen ’13, Sean Oleasz ’15, Demitri Yao ’14, Will Horigan ’15, Tad Link ’14 and Tyler Stites ’13.

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$10K RAFFLE DRAWING AMONG THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 31ST ANNUAL SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE The drawing of Northwest Catholic’s inaugural $10K Raffle was among the highlights of the 31st Annual Saturday Night Live, held on November 22, 2014. Northwest Catholic student Naomi McPherson ’17 won the grand prize of $10,000, Sarah Wallace of Avon won the second prize of $2,500 and Katie Rose of West Hartford won the $1,000 third prize. All of the available 2,500 tickets were sold, with proceeds from the raffle benefitting the Northwest Catholic Fund, which annually supports the school’s operating budget and the educational programs and significant aid program which distinguish Northwest Catholic.

Grand prize winner Naomi McPherson '17 and NWC President and Chief Administrator Dave Eustis

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Saturday Night Live also featured the return engagement of West Hartford band Lonesome Eddie and the Bird Dogs, with special guests The Brass Puppies, as well as a performance from comedianhypnotist Peter Gross. Both the Silent and Live Auctions were successful, with prizes including sports tickets and memorabilia, electronics, gift baskets, jewelry and a week in Hawaii. Patrons enjoyed fine food in the Starlight Dessert Café and the International Food Court, as well as performances by a local gospel choir in the chapel.

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GRANDPARENTS’ DAY ’15 Members of the Class of 2018 showed off their school to their grandparents during NWC’s annual Grandparents’ Day, held on May 13, 2015. The grandparents enjoyed a presentation from President/Chief Administrator David Eustis as well as performances by NWC student musicians. They also toured the school and had lunch with their grandchildren.

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S P O RT S NE WS FROM THE DESK OF ATHLETIC DIRECTOR MATTHEW MARTORELLI ’03 Former Olympic gymnast Mary Lou Retton, who is best-known for her gold medal performance in the 1984 Summer Olympics, coined the phrase, “Trophies carry dust. Memories last forever.”

What she is trying to say is that the memories of the special moments that she had been a part of during her journey as a female athlete will mean the most to her – not the medals or trophies that she won along the way.

During my time as a high school and collegiate student-athlete, the memories that I still hold close to my heart have nothing to do with championships and victories. The memories that I have are from

the relationships that were fostered during my extracurricular, or as I like to call it, co-curricular, activities.

So while I do tend to agree with Mary Lou Retton’s statement, most of the time, the 20142015 sports seasons were ones for the record books… and I wouldn’t mind dusting off those trophies for many years to come.

Northwest Catholic ended the 2014-2015 year with two championship trophies – Class S Champions in both Girls’ Tennis and Baseball! The Girls’ Basketball team was also the runner-up in the Class L Basketball State Tournament! Not a bad year, and one that NWC students, and I, will remember for years to come.

WINTER �14 BOYS’ BASKETBALL The Northwest Catholic Boys’ Basketball team had a terrific year under Coach John Mirabello. Finishing with a record of ten wins and ten losses during the regular season, the team cruised through their first two Class S State Tournament games to face powerhouse and soon-to-be champions, Sacred Heart, in the CIAC Class S State Quarterfinals.

The Girls’ Basketball team celebrates their Class L championship appearance. great moments of the year. The team came up short, but held their heads high as they gave their all. The team had big wins against Conard (twice), Hall (twice), Farmington, and Simsbury. The team is looking forward to the 2015-2016 with a strong senior class and a talented group of underclassmen.

Christian Thomas ’15 looks for a chance to score, with Owen Tyler ’15 right behind him.

Senior captains Christian Thomas ’15 (MVP, All-Conference, All-State) and Owen Tyler ’15 (Coaches Award) provided great leadership all season long and into the State Tournament. Juniors Connor Daly ’16 (AllConference), Patrick Lazor ’16, Stephen Laffin ’16, and Aaron Renker ’16 provided great depth for the team and added to the

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GIRLS’ BASKETBALL If you had asked Head Coach Sean O’Brien ’02 before the season if the team would be playing in the championship game in the Class L tournament, he probably would have said, “keep dreaming.” Well, little did he know, that dream came true twenty wins after the start of the season. The team finished with a record of fifteen wins and five losses 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

during the regular season. After losing in the second round of the CCC Tournament (to South Windsor), the girls went on a magical ride all the way to Mohegan Sun! After being down the entire game to Bristol Eastern in the second round of the CIAC Class L State Tournament, the team fought back to take their first lead of the game with only five seconds remaining and managed to hold on for the victory. The team next defeated Kennedy High School in the quarterfinals and New Fairfield High School in the semifinals to make it to the championship game. Behind their three captains, Haley Connors ’15 (MVP, All-Conference), Mackenzie Collyer ’15 (Coaches Award), and Madison Borowiec ’15, the dream season came to an end when the team faced powerhouse Capital

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Prep at Mohegan Sun Arena. Playing key roles were Mackenzie Tibball ’16 (All-Conference), Elysia Calloway ’16, Erin Feeney ’16, Lauren Murphy ’17, Elizabeth Jacobs ’17, and Hannah Borowiec ’17.

BOYS’ INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD With Head Coach Patrick Williamson ’99 at the helm, the 2014-15 Boys’ Indoor Track & Field Team placed 14th overall in the CCC and 4th in the CCC West. Captains James Jordano ’15, Andrew Doran ’15, and Adam Vancisin ’15 (Coaches Award) led a hardworking team that included 16 seniors with a wealth of talent and experience. The 4x400 meter relay team at the Yale Invitational – Nick Ravosa ’15 (MVP), Marino Boccuzzi ’15, Jayden McAdams ’16, and Christian Mackay-Morgan ’16 ran their best race of the season to win their heat and come in 3rd place overall at the prestigious meet and broke the 12-year-old school record by almost 3 seconds. Christian MackayMorgan ’16 was voted onto the All-Conference team for his performances in the 4x2, 4x4, 400m dash and 300m dash. Asa Guest ’17 took 5th in the 55 hurdles at both the Conference and Class S championships. Adam Vancisin

Micayla Hopson ’15 clears the high jump bar. ’15 capped a four-year career with a 5th place finish in the 3200m race at the Class S State Championships. Other contributing seniors were: Josangel Badillo ’15, Niles Ball ’15, Christopher Caddle ’15, Justin Drisdelle ’15, John Glascock ’15, Dinesh Palety ’15, William Stanwick ’15, Marco Torelli ’15, Michael Valentine ’15 and Logan Wolf ’15.

GIRLS’ INDOOR TRACK AND FIELD Under the direction of Head Coach Patrick Williamson ’99, the Girls’ Indoor Track & Field team was especially strong this year, with talented athletes qualifying in multiple events at the conference and state levels. The group took 9th place overall in the ultra-competitive CCC championship meet, 4th place in the CCC West, and were the 10th place team at the Class S Championship meet. The five team captains were truly indistinguishable from each other in terms of leadership – Lauren Cenci ’15, Kelsey Geddes ’15 (MVP), Micayla Hopson ’15 (Coaches Award), Chiara Santavenere ’15 and Carly Walsh ’15. The other seniors on the team were Fiona Shea ’15, Madison Rowe ’15 and Fiona Travers ’15.

both the CCC and Class S meets and qualified for the State Open – run by Cenci, Claire Hurtado ’16, Maddie Hasson ’17 and Alicia Palmer ’16. Cenci also ended her career as the secondfastest 1000m runner in school history. Hopson and Geddes each medaled at the Class S meet in the High Jump and Long Jump, respectively, qualifying for the State Open in those events as well. These seniors capped their careers with a phenomenal season, aided by a promising group of younger contributors.

ICE HOCKEY Head Coach Don Melanson ’84 and his Boys’ Ice Hockey team finished the regular season with ten wins and ten losses, finding their way back to the CIAC Division I State Tournament.

The team had big wins over Glastonbury, East Catholic, Notre Dame-Fairfield, and Conard during the regular season. After splitting games with Glastonbury during the regular season, the team would have to face them again in the first

The talent extended beyond the seniors. The 4x200m relay team of Brittney Lundy ’16, Hopson, Geddes and Rachael Ogbonna ’16 ran blistering times all year – winning their heat at the Yale Invitational and placing 3rd overall at

Christian Mackay-Morgan ’16 helps give his relay team the lead.

the Class S meet, qualifying for the State Open Championship. The 4x800 relay team scored at

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Patrick Conway ’15 takes the puck.

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S P O RT S NE W S round of the Division I state tournament, possibly one of the most exciting high school ice hockey games this area has seen in a long time. Leading 1-0 in the game, the team lost a heartbreaker in overtime. Coach Melanson could only be proud of the team, as they left it all on the ice. The team was led by their tricaptain seniors – Patrick Conway ’15, Tyler Noll ’15 (Coaches Award), and Joshua Stumpf ’15. Goalie Michael Camasso ’16 (MVP, AllConference) and forward Anthony Ceolin ’17 (All-Conference, All-State) provided much needed clutch play all season long.

SWIMMING Under first year Head Coach, Tammi Haynes, the Northwest Catholic Swim team finished with a winning record of seven wins and six losses. Competing as a co-ed team, during the CIAC Boys’ scheduled season, the team faced many obstacles on the way to their first winning record in many years. The team was led by their three senior captains – Matthew Masciocchi ’15 (Coaches Award), Christian Smith ’15 and Lillian Vincens ’15. Sophomore transfer Mitchell Karangekis ’17 (MVP, All-Conference, All-State) was just what this young team was looking for and was the spark all season in many different events.

The team had key victories over East Catholic, Suffield, and Granby and started off the season at 5-1, losing their first meet and then winning five in-a-row. The 2015-2016 team is projected to have a strong outlook with a lot of talented underclassmen returning.

SPRING �15 BASEBALL If you had asked Northwest Catholic Head Baseball Coach, Cory Carlson, after the opening day loss to Glastonbury “are you ready for the ride of your life,” he would have responded with his standard “you bet fella.” For anyone who followed along last year, it certainly was a crazy ride, a first in Connecticut High School Baseball history. After starting out the year with a four and six record, Coach Carlson and his seniors knew that they all had a tough task ahead of them, if they wanted to achieve their goal of returning to the State Tournament.

Hunter Tralli ’15 (MVP, All-Conference, AllState), Evan Michalek ’15 (All-Conference), Trent Kowalec ’15, Zachary Niziolek ’15 and Nicholas Trifari ’15 helped spark the defense during the second half of the season, while Leon Babcock ’15 (Coaches Award) became a

nightmare for opposing pitchers when he got to the plate.

During the second half of the season, the team found a way to sneak into the state tournament with a regular season record of nine wins and eleven losses. Two fewer wins and the team wouldn’t have made it into the CIAC State Tournament. Being the #27 seed in Class S, it seemed as though the cards were stacked against Northwest Catholic, and it would take a lot of strategy and careful planning if the team wanted to make a run. And make a run is exactly what they did. Anchored behind junior pitcher, Justin Gallicchio ’16 (All-Conference) with some help from freshman pitchers Luke Fox ’18, Shayne Rice ’18 and Drew Hungerford ’18, the team took down Cromwell, Old Lyme and Thomaston, all on their home fields.

Making it all the way to the State Semifinals was an unbelievable task for a team that had a sub .500 regular season record. But it was clear

Mitchell Karangekis ’17 powers through the water.

The Baseball team celebrates the final out of their Class S Championship victory!

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S P ORT S NE W S and worked extremely hard day in and day out to be the best they could be. Some of the great moments included big wins over RHAM (ten to six) and Newington (nine to six), and even some close losses against Hall and South Windsor, both by one goal. The team was led in scoring by junior Connor Murphy ’16 (MVP, All-Conference, All-State) and had great performances by the five very talented players who were named AllConference: Gibbons, Klein, Murphy, Cameron Von Hollander ’17 and Spencer Merkel ’18.

The future looks good for the 2016 season as they return a solid amount of underclassmen.

GIRLS’ LACROSSE

Sabrina Carreira ’15 waits for the perfect pitch.

The Boys’ Lacrosse team huddles up before the game.

when they took to Sage Park in Berlin against Career that they did not come all this way to have their season finish, just one win short of the title game. In a battle of pitching, a two to zero Northwest Catholic victory sent the team to Palmer Field in Middletown for their CHAMPIONSHIP game vs. Morgan. Freshman Luke Fox clearly has nerves of steel and an arm of the same as he took to the mound against Morgan and helped show the state of Connecticut that you cannot count out NWC, no matter what their record or seed. A couple of hours after the first pitch, and five runs for Northwest Catholic later, Coach Carlson held up the State Championship trophy to his team and immediately spoke about the memories and life lessons that they learned along the way.

eight wins and twelve losses – four of those losses were only by one run. Hardy (outfield), Kayla Midney ’18 (pitcher) and Taylor Pane ’17 (outfield) helped anchor the defense, while Carreira, Kathleen Yorio ’16 and Caela Daly ’17 led the offense with powerful bats and base running ability. The team got into the State Tournament and won their first round game vs. Wilcox Tech handily by a score of twelve to two. With only two graduating seniors, Coach Rick Smith is excited to start his 2016 campaign with his relatively young but experienced squad.

SOFTBALL Under the direction of first year Head Coach Rick Smith, the Northwest Catholic High School Softball team had to rely heavily on its seniors, Sabrina Carreira ’15 (MVP, All-Conference) and Anna Hardy ’15 (Coaches Award), to get back into the State Tournament. Playing in the very difficult CCC West Conference against opponents like Southington and Conard, the team finished with a regular season record of

The Girls’ Lacrosse team had a very successful 2015 season under Head Coach Bill Mullady ’66.

Winning four out of their last six games of the season, the team qualified for the State Tournament with nine wins in total, a task not many programs would have been able to complete. Through hard work and dedication to the program, this group of eight seniors (Lauren Cenci ’15 (MVP), Shannon Greene ’15, Grace Hayes ’15, Caitlin O’Sullivan ’15, Lillian Vincens ’15 (Coaches Award), Abby Visintainer ’15, Kathleen Waterston ’15, and Christina Wilson ’15) was not ready to end their season in late May, they were headed into June! In the first round of the CIAC Class S State Tournament, the team faced a very tough Stonington team on the road and pulled off an amazing come-from-behind victory, 11-9. The team next faced a difficult Somers team in the quarterfinals. The game was back and forth

BOYS’ LACROSSE Coach Peter Vlahakis and the Boys’ Lacrosse team finished their season with five wins, full of great moments and memories for the talented group of seniors. After graduating seven seniors the year before, including the Hartford Courant Player of the Year Chris McLaughlin ’14, an even bigger group of seniors, eight of them in total, wanted to show the newer members of the program what it meant to be successful, and that’s exactly what they did. Seniors William Klein ’15, James Gibbons ’15 (Coaches Award), David Kalamarides ’15, Zachary Houldcroft ’15, Taylor Roth ’15, Devin Sukhram ’15, Logan Wolf ’15 and Benjamin Worley ’15 led by example

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Lauren Cenci ’15 looks to send the ball downfield.

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and was the most exciting game of the season.

NWC came up one goal short of reaching the semifinals, losing 15-14. Senior captain Cenci had a spectacular season and career, as she etched her name in the record books. Three players were named All-Conference: Cenci, Hayes and Elena Hynes ’17, while Cenci and Hynes were also named All-State.

sending NWC back to Newington High School for the State Championship match vs. St. Bernard the very next afternoon. Seniors Anna Case ’15 (MVP, #1 Singles), Angela Miguel ’15 (#2 Singles), Charlotte Carew ’15 (Coaches Award, #3 Singles) and Kathleen Craig ’15 / Gabriella Giannone ’15 (#2 Doubles) helped the team become the first Back-to-Back State Champions in Girls’ Tennis in school history – defeating St. Bernard six to one.

BOYS’ TENNIS The Boys’ Tennis team had another very successful season under Coach Timothy Crowley, making it back to the State Tournament in multiple areas. The team racked up eleven wins during the regular season, three of which were shut-out seven to nothing victories against East Hartford, Bulkeley and Manchester. The team also had big wins over Newington, Rocky Hill, and Middletown and won their last four regular season matches, which qualified them for the State Tournament. Senior captains Adam Mendoza ’15 (Coaches Award) and Kyle Brooks ’15 (MVP), along with Niles Ball ’15, Wenjia Dong ’15, Andrew Doran ’15, Christian Smith ’15 and Liam Walsh ’15 brought great leadership that helped lead the team on a great run in the State Tournament. The doubles team of Brooks and Patrick Lazor ’16 made it all the way to the State semifinals! Oliver Hasson ’16 was named All-Conference and also made a long run in the singles tournament.

GIRLS’ TENNIS We are the Champions... AGAIN! It’s not something many schools have the ability to say, but Head Coach Stan Piorkowski knew going into the season that he had another special season coming his way – one year after the team won it all in 2014.

After starting out the 2015 season with back to back wins, the Northwest Catholic Girls’ Tennis program faced some adversity early on in the season with losses to Glastonbury and Farmington, but managed to rebound throughout the remainder of the year, finishing the regular season with a record of fourteen wins and two losses as they headed into CIAC

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Kyle Brooks ’15 returns his opponent’s serve.

State Tournament play. Cruising through the first two rounds of the tournament with wins over Plainville and Litchfield, Northwest Catholic faced its toughest challenge on the way back to the State Championship in the CIAC Class S Semifinals where they met a very powerful team from Weston. After losing the first three matches that day, there was a sense of panic in the crowd – could they do it again, just like they did before? Weston only needed to win one more match in a best of seven series, but slowly Northwest Catholic crept back and was tied with Weston, three to three. The only match left, the most important one, was going to decide the fate of both teams. In the NWC corner was Kathryn Shea ’18, fighting through pain, facing match point numerous times and coming away, eventually, a winner in a third set tiebreaker –

The Girls’ Tennis team poses with their second Class S Championship plaque in two years!

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Andrew Hesketh ’16 watches his golf ball fly.

BOYS’ GOLF Coach Scott Fletcher and his Boys’ Golf Team had a goal this season – to qualify for the State Tournament, a goal which they accomplished.

Playing in such a tough division, your overall record doesn’t qualify you for the State Tournament, how good you are does. And this team was good!

Shooting a low round of the year, 158, on May 8 at Rockledge, Coach Fletcher knew he had something special with this group of young men. The team took to Tallwood Country Club for the State Tournament where the team finished in 9th place

and earned All-Conference honors, while Lavoie received the Coaches Award.

BOYS’ OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD

Zoe Lavoie ’15 is ready to sink her putt. overall in Division IV. The team was led by their two senior captains, William Horigan ’15 (MVP) and Sean Oleasz ’15 (Coaches Award) as well as Alex Baczewski ’15 and Brendan Fahey ’15.

The Boys’ Outdoor Track & Field team had a phenomenal season under Head Coach Patrick Williamson ’99, culminating with a fourth place overall finish at the Class S State Championship meet. Captains Adam Vancisin ’15 (Coaches’ Award) and James Jordano ’15 led a team filled with senior leadership and underclassmen talent to some phenomenal performances. Other contributing seniors were: Josangel Badillo ’15, Christopher Caddle ’15, Nicholas Ravosa ’15, Elijah Riley ’15, Kauron Thomas ’15 and Marco Torelli ’15. The 4x400m relay team won the CCC West Championship, earning All-CCC Honors for Asa Guest ’17, Christian MackayMorgan ’16 (MVP, All-Conference, All-State), Jayden McAdams ’16 and Ravosa. Guest was also the CCC Champion in the 110m hurdles and Mackay-Morgan won the 400m dash at the meet. At the Class S meet, that same 4x400 team took second place overall and qualified for the State Open.

Mackay-Morgan was also the Class S champion at 400m, placing fourth in the event at the State Open

and seventh at the New England Championship Meet. The future is very bright for Mackay-Morgan and this talented team.

GIRLS’ OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD The Girls’ Outdoor Track & Field team placed sixth in the CCC West and competed in the Class MM State Championship Meet. Captain Micayla Hopson ’15 (MVP, All-Conference) qualified for the State Meet in the 100m dash, high jump and 4x100m relay team. She took third place in the High Jump at the CCC West meet and scored sixth place points in the 100m dash. Captain Kelsey Geddes ’15 (Coaches Award, All-Conference) qualified for the State Meet in the 200m dash, long jump, triple jump and 4x100m relay. In her best event, the triple jump, Geddes broke a 21-year-old school record, was the CCC West Champion in the event, took fourth at the Class MM Meet, sixth at the State Open and competed at the New England Championship.

Captain Chiara Santavenere ’15 also ran in the 4x100m relay at the State Championship Meet. Other contributing seniors were: Mia Christie ’15 and Diana Mignott ’15.

Katherine Jacobs ’18 and Alicia Palmer ’16 were named All-Conference.

GIRLS’ GOLF Under the direction of Head Coach Jeff Przech ’92, the Girls’ Golf team had a very successful spring season, finishing with an overall record of eleven wins and ten losses and qualifying for the CIAC Girls’ Golf State Tournament. Behind strong leadership from their captains, senior Zoe Lavoie ’15 and junior Megan Weiss ’16, the team held their own in an extremely tough CCC division. The team had big wins against Conard (twice) and Avon, and shot a team low, 189, twice during the season – against East Hartford and Plainville. The team made it back to the State Tournament where they competed against the best teams in the state at Orange Hills Country Club. Sophomore Katherine Mullen ’17 was named team MVP Asa Guest ’17 leaps over the hurdles.

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Brittney Lundy ’16 shows determination to win.

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S P O RT S NE W S

NORTHWEST CATHOLIC ANNOUNCES CREATION OF MICHAEL TYLER ’73 FAMILY SCHOLARSHIP of the school’s 50 All-State football players, brought Northwest Catholic to a very impressive nine State Playoff appearances (including one trip to the State Finals), and was named Coach of the Year in 2005. In his final season, he eclipsed the 100 win mark during a 26-7 victory at home against Tolland.

Northwest Catholic has announced the creation of an endowed scholarship to honor Northwest Catholic football coach Michael Tyler ’73, who retired from coaching at the end of the 2014 football season.

During his time at Northwest Catholic, Coach Tyler led his teams to an overall record of 105-61-1, coached 34

Through the generosity of initial donors, over $50,000 has been raised to create the Michael Tyler ’73 Family Scholarship, which enabled a deserving Northwest Catholic student to receive a $2,500 scholarship beginning in the 2015-16 academic year. Additional gifts in honor of Coach Tyler are most welcome and appreciated. Donations to the scholarship can be made securely online via credit card at www.

NorthwestCatholic.org/Tyler or by mailing a check made out to “Northwest Catholic High School” (please include a “Tyler Scholarship” memo) to the Northwest Catholic Advancement Office, 29 Wampanoag Drive, West Hartford, CT 06117.

NWC’S PLACE, MCLAUGHLIN ARE NAMED CIAC SCHOLAR-ATHLETES Robert Place ’15, an outstanding soccer player, and Sarah McLaughlin ’15, a talented field hockey player, were named Northwest Catholic’s CIAC Scholar-Athletes for 2015.

Place, of West Hartford, was a member of the Varsity Boys’ Soccer team since his freshman year. He was named AllAcademic all four years of high school, and All-Conference from his sophomore through senior seasons. RJ was named All-State as a junior and a senior, and served as a team captain during his senior year. He played in 62 Northwest Catholic soccer games, 60 of which he was a starting player. He also scored 42 goals for the team, and netted 24 assists. RJ plays Division I soccer at the College of the Holy Cross.

McLaughlin, of Suffield, played field hockey since her freshman year, earning All-Academic honors every year. A midfielder, Sarah was a starting player for three out of her four years, earning All-Conference honors in 2013. She was also part of the Northwest Catholic Field Hockey team that made it to the Class S Semifinals in 2013. Sarah attends Williams College and plays field hockey there.

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S P ORT S NE W S

NWC ATHLETES NAMED TO ALL-COURANT TEAMS FOR 2014-2015 SPORTS At the end of each season, The Hartford Courant names the best athletes from throughout its circulation area to its “AllCourant” teams for each sport. Northwest Catholic was well represented on these teams for the 2014-2015 winter season and 2015 spring season.

Spring ’15 Sports Kyle Brooks ’15 and Patrick Lazor ’16 – Boys’ Tennis (Doubles) Anna Case ’15 – Girls’ Tennis Justin Gallicchio ’16 – Baseball

Honorable Mention Lauren Cenci ’15 – Girls’ Lacrosse

Winter ’15 Sports

Kelsey Geddes ’15 – Girls’ Outdoor Track and Field

Haley Connors ’15 – Girls’ Basketball

Oliver Hasson ’16 – Boys’ Tennis (Singles)

Anthony Ceolin ’17 – Ice Hockey

Elena Hynes ’17 – Girls’ Lacrosse Zoe Lavoie ’15 – Girls’ Golf

Honorable Mention

Christian Mackay-Morgan ’16 – Boys’ Outdoor Track and Field

Michael Camasso ’16 – Ice Hockey

Evan Michalek ’15 - Baseball

Mitchell Karangekis ’17 – Boys’ Swimming

Kit Mullen ’17 – Girls’ Golf

Mackenzie Tibball ’16 – Girls’ Basketball

Connor Murphy ’16 – Boys’ Lacrosse

Christian Thomas ’15 – Boys’ Basketball

Hunter Tralli ’15 – Baseball

ALUMNI ATHLETICS Allison Connors ’13

Sadie Martinez ’13

(Springfield College – Basketball): Ali had a great summer coaching basketball for the Maccabi Games in Florida; winning a bronze medal with her team and receiving “Coach of the Tournament” recognition.

(University of the Cumberlands – Golf): Sadie was a member of the University of the Cumberlands Women's Golf team that won the Bill Sergent Invitational in the spring of 2015; Sadie finished tied for 7th place. The team also won the MSC Championship.

Nick Gaynor ’13 (Trinity College – Football): Former Northwest Catholic student-athlete, Nick Gaynor appeared in six games as a freshman. Nick had five catches for 40 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns. During his sophomore year, Nick was 4th on the team in receptions and third on the team in receiving (166 yards). He also caught two touchdown passes.

Alejandro Tobon ’13

Joe Doyle ’13 (Bates College - Track & Field): Joe has been a long distance runner at Bates College since he first walked through the doors, competing in the Cross Country and Track and Field programs. During his sophomore year, he finished 13th in the Division III Championships in the 5000m race. He has since improved upon his finishing position, finishing in 6th place in the 5000m Maine State Championships in the spring of 2015.

(Eastern Connecticut University – Soccer): Alejandro has played in 38 games during his two years at Eastern Connecticut. He has started in 6 games while netting three goals and totaling 8 points in his first two seasons.

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S P O RT S NE W S

JOHN ALISSI NAMED MERCY-NORTHWEST CATHOLIC GIRLS’ ICE HOCKEY COACH

College, where he was named MVP his senior year, as well as ECAC Player of the Week. He went on to play and coach for EV Bruckberg in Germany from 1993-1994.

Since 2003, he has been the head coach or assistant coach of various Connecticut hockey teams and is a USA Hockey Level 4 Certified Coach. His most recent coaching positions include Head Coach of Boys U18 & U16 High School/Midget Spring & Summer League Teams (2011-2014), Head Coach of Connecticut Polar Bears Girls U12 Tier I Team (2012-2013), Head Coach of Connecticut Polar Bears Girls U14 Tier II Team (2013-2014) and Head Coach of Connecticut Polar Bears Girls Tier I U14 Team (2014-2015). He is also a Power Skating Instructor and Hockey Skills Instructor for both Summer Camps and Clinics.

“It is an honor to be named the first head coach of the new Mercy/Northwest Catholic Co-op Girls Hockey Team,” said Alissi. “I am extremely excited for the season and it is great to help with the expansion of girls’ high school hockey in Connecticut. My goal is to make Mercy/ Northwest Catholic Co-op Girls Hockey a competitive high school hockey program, to continue to develop the skills and understanding of each individual player and to build a team that the players, schools and parents are proud to be associated with.”

West Hartford resident John Alissi, father of Northwest Catholic students Tucker Alissi ’17 and Annie Alissi ’19 has been named coach of the new co-op Girls’ Ice Hockey Team of Northwest Catholic High School and Mercy High School for the 2015-2016 season.

Alissi played hockey for two years at the United States Military Academy and another two years at Williams

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“Northwest Catholic and Mercy are excited to bring another girls’ high school hockey program into Connecticut, and we couldn’t be happier that John will lead us as our head coach,” said David Eustis, President and Chief Administrator at Northwest Catholic. “John has extensive experience playing and coaching, and I truly think the girls that play for him will benefit from his knowledge and passion for the game.”

The team will play in the Southern Connecticut Conference, with their home rink at Champions Skating Center in Cromwell.

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S P ORT S NE W S

NORTHWEST CATHOLIC SENIORS ANNOUNCE PLANS TO COMPETE IN COLLEGE SPORTS Twenty two members of the Class of 2015 committed to continue playing sports in college. Of these students, four committed to Division I athletic programs. These students are: Madison Borowiec – Quinnipiac University (Soccer) Haley Connors – Bryant University (Basketball) Robert Place – College of the Holy Cross (Soccer) Owen Tyler – University of Delaware (Football)

Christopher DeNapoli – Western New England University (Football) Shannon Greene – St. Michaels College (Lacrosse) Patrick McCormack – St. Bonaventure University (Rugby) Sarah McLaughlin – Williams College (Field Hockey) Evan Michalek – La Salle University (Baseball) Zachary Niziolek – Univ. of Rhode Island (Baseball) Elijah Riley – Assumption College (Football)

In addition, eighteen students committed to compete in Division II or Division III college athletics, including several students attending NESCAC schools. These students are:

Delano Robinson – Dean College (Football) Barrett Shea – College of the Holy Cross (Rowing)

Errol Alexander – Hampden-Sydney College (Football)

Christian Thomas – Nichols College (Basketball)

Leon Babcock – UConn-Avery Point (Baseball)

Hunter Tralli – Assumption College (Baseball)

Sabrina Carreira – Anna Maria College (Softball)

Hope Vaughn – Salve Regina University (Field Hockey)

Liam Cavanaugh – Susquehanna University (Soccer)

Christina Wilson – Maine Maritime (Lacrosse)

Mackenzie Collyer – Roanoke College (Basketball)

Together, these 22 students who will be playing sports in college represent 16% of the Class of ’15.

NWC’s college athletes from the Class of 2015 (left to right): Owen Tyler, Elijah Riley, Christopher DeNapoli, Evan Michalek, Delano Robinson, Errol Alexander, Christian Thomas, Patrick McCormack, Zachary Niziolek, Christina Wilson, Leon Babcock, Sabrina Carreira, Liam Cavanaugh, Mackenzie Collyer, Barrett Shea, Madison Borowiec, Hope Vaughn, Hunter Tralli, Sarah McLaughlin, Robert Place, and Shannon Greene

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NWC President/Chief Administrator David Eustis, Haley Connors ’15 and NWC Athletic Director Matthew Martorelli ’03

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A LU M N I NE WS As in every school, some people who enroll at NWC as freshmen do not remain here for four years, for a variety of reasons. However, we still consider them part of the NWC family. For record-keeping purposes, NWC has followed the lead of many other schools in defining “when an alum is an alum.” The policy is that if a student completes one year at NWC, we consider them to be part of the class with which they entered, and they will be identified as “a member of the Class of ’xx.”

A person in this category who wishes to be removed from or added to our database should contact Director of Constituent Relations Jane Leary at jleary@nwcath.org.

1960’S Patricia Killington Thompson ’65 retired in 2011 after a career of 33 years in transportation and now enjoys organizing retiree gatherings five times a year. Twelve years ago she also co-founded a cancer support group for which she serves as secretary and facilitator. In addition, she serves as a breast cancer mentor through a local hospital program, “Women Mentoring Women,” and drives patients to treatments each week.

Dan Montano ’69 retired in June 2015 after 41 years of selling pharmaceuticals. He plans to move to Old Lyme, CT.

1970’S Tim Bourret ’73 broadcast his 1,000th Clemson basketball game on February 10, 2015. He has been on staff with the Clemson University Athletic Department since 1978 and is currently the Assistant Athletic Director and Sports Information Director.

Rob Leeds ’73 has been voted the Associate Scout of the Year by the MidAtlantic Baseball Scouts Association. He has been an Associate Scout for ten years, including the past two years with the San Diego Padres. He received the award at the annual end-of-year Mid-Atlantic Association banquet at Ripken Stadium.

Casey Sabella ’73 has been married to his wife Patti for over 30 years. They have two daughters, two sons, and three grandkids. He is currently the pastor of Christ Community in Waterbury, CT and recently launched a podcast on iTunes called Minister’s Toolbox, designed to help church leaders with tools to be successful in ministry.

Michael Flaherty ’75 has been named Chief Executive Officer and President of Duncan Solutions LTD, headquartered in Milwaukee, WI. Duncan Solutions is a transportation services company specializing in account management for both the parking and EZPASS industries. Michael resides in Ocean City, NJ with his wife of 33

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years, Karen and has 4 children and 4 grandchildren.

Jim Lizzi ’76 recently retired from a 33-year-long, private and public sector career as a Registered Traffic Engineer in Southern California, and was also recognized by the Orange County Employees Association for career service and dedication to the organization and fellow members. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1981 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He resides in Costa Mesa, CA, enjoys tennis and travel photography, and has plans to record an album of acoustic guitar music.

Dr. George B. Curry ’77 was elected the 18th president of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA) in May 2015. Practicing as Curry Chiropractic, with offices in Windsor and East Windsor, Dr. Curry also has served outside the U.S., performing chiropractic mission work in Poland. His children, Dr. Jackie Curry ’04 and Dr. Collin Curry ’06, practice alongside their father at Curry Chiropractic.

1980’S Holly Stauber ’81 had a busy summer.

She attended longtime friend Ed Asner’s FDR show in Lancaster, PA and attended a book signing with her two daughters for the author Lisa Scottoline in Collegeville, PA. She has been living in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania for the past 13 years.

John Kennedy Hampton ’84 was re-elected to the Connecticut General Assembly on November 4, 2014. He has represented the 16th District in the state legislature since 2012. Representative Hampton was appointed Assistant Majority Leader and Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Children. He is also a member of the Banking, Aging and Planning and Development Committees.

Robert Curis ’85 was named President and Chief Administrator at Notre Dame High School in West Haven as of July 1, 2015.

Elizabeth Carter ’87 was promoted and transferred her job as an IT Project Manager to the Nationwide Insurance office in Scottsdale, AZ. She has worked 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

for Nationwide Insurance for almost 10 years. She moved from Columbus, OH to Scottsdale in July after months of traveling back and forth.

1990’S Jeff Przech ’92 released his debut solo record Sounds Like Fresh in March 2015.

The record has received airplay on internet radio as well as on WPLR and WAPJ in Connecticut. He spent much of the summer touring the East Coast to support the record but will be focusing on New England and New York in the fall and winter.

Jenn Scagel Siegel ’94 was recently promoted to Resource Sharing Coordinator in the Brandeis University Library.

Gwendolyn Hall Thames ’99 was recognized in Doing Business in Connecticut for her work as the manager of both Connecticut Innovations’ Small Business Innovation Group and CTNext. She was also elected to serve on the Hartford City Council.

2000’S Christopher Hayes ’01 is a puppeteer on the Emmy award-winning show Sesame Street.

Jourdan Smith ’01 is the Director of Design + User Experience at Tribune Publishing. The portfolio includes 200+ National publications and Apps including the Los Angeles Times, Baltimore Sun, Chicago Tribune, and Hartford Courant. He teaches art direction and copywriting at The Chicago Portfolio School and also founded two new companies this year – The Brothers Crisp, a handmade shoe company based in Hartford CT, and The Looking Glass, a beauty app based in San Francisco.

Stephanie Hendricks ’03 graduated in May 2015 with her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of St. Joseph. She recently moved to Atlanta, GA. Mike Eagan '04 recently earned his CT Home Inspection license. Mike

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has started his own company called CT Complete Home Inspections LLC. Mike and his wife Elizabeth welcomed a baby boy in July of 2015.

After working for four years as an RN, Michelle Donaghey ’06 is studying to get her master’s degree in biology from Central Connecticut State University and is enrolled in the Nurse Anesthesia Program of Hartford. She will graduate in October 2016 as a nurse anesthetist.

Rivkah Freeman-Dasent ’06 passed her state exam to become a CT Licensed Clinical Social Worker in June 2015.

Taylor Knortz ’08 was honored as one of “Hartford’s Finest” by the Connecticut Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The distinction is given to professionals who show exemplary leadership, are active in their community and have excelled in their career. Taylor is a marketing communications coordinator at The Hartford.

Janae Frazier ’09 is now a reporter at WLTX in Columbia, SC. She spent the previous two years as a producer, reporter and fill-in anchor at WECT News in Wilmington, NC, after graduating from Elon University in 2013.

Bridget Kiley ’09 of Villanova University has been offered a Fulbright U.S. Student Program grant to Greece for an English Teaching Assistantship. She is one of over 1,900 U.S. citizens who traveled abroad for the 2015-2016 academic year through the Fulbright U.S. Student Program. Recipients

of Fulbright grants are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement, as well as demonstrated leadership potential.

2010’S Nico Greco ’10 was named the Male ScholarAthlete of the Year at the LaSalle University Athletic Department’s Student-Athlete Recognition Ceremony, held on April 21, 2015.

Tim Waltman ’10 and Sarah Wizner ’10 became engaged on April 24, 2015.

Nicole Poirier ’11 will be getting married to Craig Levesque on June 25, 2016.

Gabrielle Bonk ’14 was named to the Spring 2015 Dean’s List at Providence College.

She is majoring in marketing.

NWC ALUM HONORED WITH NATIONAL EDUCATION AWARD Desi Nesmith ’97 was surprised on October 9, 2014 when he was named a 2014 recipient of the Milken Educator Award and awarded $25,000.

Nesmith, in his 4th year as principal of Metacomet Elementary School in Bloomfield at the time, was the only educator in Connecticut to receive the award in 2014. He used part of the award to fund a college scholarship each year for four years to a Bloomfield High School senior interested in becoming an educator. In September of 2015, he accepted the position of chief school turnaround officer for the Connecticut Department of Education.

The Milken Educator Awards program rewards and inspires excellence in the world of education by honoring top educators around the country with $25,000 unrestricted awards. The Milken Educator Awards target early-to-mid career education professionals for their already impressive achievements and for the promise of what they will accomplish in the future. More than 2,600 Awards have been given out since the initiative began in 1985, totaling over $65 million.

“Desi truly epitomizes a Northwest Catholic graduate – a strong leader with a passion for helping others in the community he grew up in,” said Northwest Catholic President, David Eustis. “All of us at NWC are proud to call Desi a family member and graduate.”

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Bob Gagnier ’65 and former NWC Athletic Director Charlie Larson caught up over lunch in Englewood Beach, FL in June 2015. The two talked about old times at Northwest Catholic.

Northwest Catholic Hockey Coach, Don Melanson ‘84, was sworn in as the new Chief of Police in Windsor, CT on August 3, 2015. Melanson was a 20-year veteran of the West Hartford Police Department, heading up the investigative division in addition to the training and traffic divisions.

Dr. Anita McIlveen Kelsey ’82 (left), Director of Echocardiography, Medical Director of the Hoffman Heart School of Cardiac Ultrasound and the Director of the Phillips Women’s Heart Program at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, was honored as a Malta House of Care 2015 “Wonder Woman” for her leadership and community service.

Marsha Barrett ’01 is an assistant professor of history and African American Studies at Mississippi State University and is completing a book manuscript on Nelson Rockefeller and the decline of moderate Republicanism. Her article on the subject was published in Politico in May of 2015.

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Ashley Combs ’05 was recognized as the Outstanding Early Career Professional by the Neag School of Education Alumni Society and the faculty of the Neag School of Education at UConn. She is the executive assistant to the senior vice president, basketball and client services manager at Excel Sports Management in Beverly Hills, CA.

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Ken Carpenter ’65 received the Coach’s Award from the Connecticut District of the Amateur Athletic Union for his involvement in girls’ basketball. He received the honor from Connecticut AAU District Governor Jack Bethke at the 11th Annual Connecticut AAU Awards Banquet on June 16, 2015.

Former NWC School Board Chair Robert O’Hara, Mark Sullivan ’75 and Brien Horan ’71 participated in a pilgrimage sponsored by the Knights of Malta to the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA in September of 2014.

Over 130 people took the trip, which included Reconciliation, Mass with the Anointing of the Sick, and Benediction.

REUNIONS 2016

If you graduated from NWC in a year ending in 1 or 6, your reunion year is 2016!

We know that each class likes to celebrate in their own way. In the past, NWC alums have held reunions with a variety of events: • Lunch or dinner at a restaurant • A cocktail party or BBQ held at a classmate’s home • Happy Hours at local venues in Hartford Class reunions are planned by the members of each class. If you would like more information or would like to plan your reunion, contact Jane Leary, Director of Constituent Relations, at 860-236-4221 x131 or jleary@nwcath.org

The Class of 1966 will celebrate their 50th Class Reunion on Saturday, June 4, 2016 at Wampanoag Country Club.

For more details, visit:

www.NorthwestCatholic.org/50thReunion

The Class of 1976 will celebrate their 40th reunion the weekend of September 23-24, 2016.

For more details, visit:

www.NorthwestCatholic.org/Reunions

Help us find lost alums! Visit NorthwestCatholic.org/Alumni Update your e-mail address so you are kept in the loop. Contact Jane Leary, jleary@nwcath.org.

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Weddings

Melissa DeLeon ’02 married Jason Foryan on March 14, 2015 in Oxford, CT. Pictured, from left to right, are Hilary Flanagan ’05, Julie Laverty ’03, Heather Flanagan ’03, Owen Davis ’00, Jessica Stone Wile ’02, Emily Phillips Gordon ’02, Jessica DeLeon ’03, Melissa DeLeon Foryan ’02, Brian DeConti ’00, Brian Flanagan ’08 and Lindsey Pelletier Ramsdell ’02.

Michael Lombardi ’03 married Lorraine Wentworth on October, 24, 2015 in Hartford, CT. NWC alumni in attendance included Mark Filomeno ’04, Sean Halloran ’04, Marianne DeConti LaSala ’03, Matt Martorelli ’03, Josh Sider ’03, Bret Clancy ’03, Adam Gooley ’03, and Dan Luddy ’03.

Michael is a Financial Service Manager at People’s United Bank.

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Alexandra Taylor ’02 and Stephen Billick, a filmmaker, were married in a private courtyard ceremony surrounded by family and closest friends in the small mountain town of San Miguel de Allende, Mexico on September 6, 2014. A reception was later held stateside for the couple, where fellow alumna, Emily Phillips Gordon ’02, was in attendance. The couple now resides in Austin, Texas, where Alexandra recently accepted a position at the University of Texas at Austin as the Program Coordinator for Campus Visits and Assessments and Stephen a position as a lecturer for the Austin School of Photography. Their film company is currently in post-production on its second film, Olé, slotted for release in fall 2015.

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Jessica Stone ’02 married Jamie Wile on August 15, 2015 on Block Island. Pictured, from left to right, are Heather Flanagan ’03, Melissa DeLeon Foryan ’02, Jessica Stone Wile ’02, Lindsey Pelletier Ramsdell ’02, and Jessica DeLeon ’03.

Rivkah Freeman-Dasent ’06 married Matthew Harding on September 11, 2015 at The Greater Hartford Wesleyan Church in Bloomfield, CT with a reception at Maneeley’s The Lodge in South Windsor, CT. NWC alumni in attendance included Brittany Kitt ’06, Angelique Pryor ’06, McKenna Flash ’06, bridesmaids Janell McCovey ’06 and Shyrelle Brown-Zhetkov ’05, and maid of honor Tzivia Freeman-Dasent ’07. Virginia Brown ’10 did the makeup of the bridal party.

Recently Married?

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

E-mail KSpera@nwcath.org a photo and some details about the wedding and your family.

With Colorado's dramatic red rocks as a backdrop, Kate Curran ’00, daughter of Lisa Meehan Curran ’71 and Joseph B. Curran, married Eric Hunter on July 11, 2015. The ceremony and reception were held at Arrowhead Country Club in Littleton, CO. Sister of the bride, Kelly Curran ’04, served as Maid of Honor.

NWC alumni in attendance included the bride's uncles, Peter A. Curran ’65 and Kevin B. Meehan ’72, as well as cousins Michelle Bruyette Melander ’73 and Dillon Meehan ’12. Kate and Eric live in Morrison, CO. Kate is a middle school math and science teacher in the Denver Public School system. Eric is a project manager with Colorado Barricade.

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NWC Babies

Katiria Delgado ’00 welcomed her son Malachi on April 26, 2015.

Lindsey Pelletier Ramsdell ’02 and her husband, Darrin, welcomed their second child, Callie Marie, on June 2, 2015. She joins her big sister, Claire, who is three years old. The couple resides in Portland, Maine.

Miriam O’Leary Maloney ’95 and husband Ted Maloney welcomed daughter Maeve Catherine Maloney on January 2, 2015.

Jeff Slomski ’02 and his wife Nicole welcomed triplets Matthew, Lana and Evan on May 22, 2015. After a stay in the NICU, all three babies are home and doing great.

Had a baby?

Get a bib!

Chris Thorner ’02 and his wife Lauren welcomed daughter Kendall on June 26, 2015. Kendall joins big brother Jack at the family’s home in Somers, CT. Chris currently works at Traveler’s and is pursuing his master’s degree in accounting from the University of Hartford.

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We’d love to include a photo of your baby in a future issue of Logos. Please request your bib from Jane Leary at JLeary@nwcath.org. Send a photo and some details about the baby and your family afterwards to KSpera@nwcath.org.

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IN MEMORIAM Northwest Catholic extends its prayers and sympathies to the families of those in our community who passed away between October 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015. To ensure accuracy, we require that In Memoriam notices be accompanied by a newspaper obituary. Please notify KSpera@nwcath.org of any errors or omissions.

REVEREND PETER S. DARGAN The Reverend Peter S. Dargan, who taught religion at Northwest Catholic from 1971 to 1977, passed away peacefully at the Masonicare Health Center, Wallingford on Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at age 80, surrounded by his family and the spiritual group from Holy Trinity Church, Wallingford.

Father Dargan was born on August 24, 1934 in West Haven, a son of Robert S. Dargan Sr. and Marie Murphy Dargan. Since graduating from Notre Dame High School in 1952, Father Dargan dedicated his life to God, the priestly ministry and Catholic education. A graduate of St. Mary’s Seminary and

University in Baltimore, Father Dargan received his Bachelor of Sacred Theology in 1961, the year he was ordained. He served at the Cathedral in Harford and many parishes including St. Rose in East Hartford, St. Ann in Milford, St. Pius X in Wolcott, and St. Bernard in Tariffville. Father Dargan served as Dean of the West Shoreline Deanery and also taught at Sacred Heart High School in Waterbury and East Catholic High School in Manchester. Father Dargan was Pastor of Holy Infant Church in Orange from 19902012. Thereafter, he served as Pastor Emeritus. He was a member of the Notre Dame High School Board of Directors and served on the Board of the Archdiocese’s Office of Urban Affairs. For his dedication to the Church and to Notre Dame High School, in 1994, Father Dargan received the Knights of Honor Award and was inducted into the Knights of Honor Society. He is survived by his siblings, Sister Mary Faith Dargan, O.P. Dominican Sisters of Peace, Mrs. Richard T. Doyle Jr. (Virginia), Mr. Richard P. Dargan (Nancy) and Mr. Robert S. Dargan Jr. (Margaret). He is survived also by several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

JANET (RUSSO) CEKOVSKY A math teacher at Northwest Catholic from 1979 to 1980, passed away at her home on Wednesday, November 26, 2014 after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in New Haven on November 7, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Camille (Formichella) Russo. She graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Hamden, CT and Anna Maria College in Paxton, MA, earned a Masters in Math Education from Boston College and taught at schools in MA and CT. She also enjoyed tutoring students in math out of her home. She was a Southington resident for 34 years and an active

parishioner at St. Thomas Church. Besides her husband of 35 years, William Cekovsky, she is survived by her children Anthony and his wife Charlene Cekovsky of Middletown, Richard and his wife Jacqueline Cekovsky of Brooklyn, NY, William and his wife Kelly Cekovsky of Prospect, Valerie Cekovsky and her boyfriend Tyler Smith of Boston, MA, three grandchildren Amber Sekoll, Andrew and Myla Cekovsky, a sister Diane and her husband Robert Bixler of Irmo, SC, a step sister Elisa Bernardo of Vail, CO, and several nieces and nephews.

Though her time at Northwest Catholic was brief, Janet was remembered fondly by her students. “Mrs. Cekovsky was my math teacher at Northwest Catholic High School and she was one of my favorites,” said Denise Salone Zalaski ’81. “I fondly remember her as a gentle, kind spirit who was always so patient.

She always greeted us with a friendly smile and was an excellent teacher of mathematics.”

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IN MEMORIAM (CONTINUED) ALUMNI David Philip Bernabeo ’65, formerly of West Hartford, CT passed away unexpectedly on March 29, 2015 at age 68. He was born in Hartford, CT, and was a graduate of the University of Hartford where he was a member and president of Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity. David was an active volunteer for many youth and athletic programs from his college years through his adult life. His advice was often sought due to his wealth of knowledge acquired through his career experience in insurance, mortgages, sales and marketing.

Robert Boland, III ’74 passed away in early 2015. Brother of Deborah Boland Lefebvre ’71, Cheryl Boland Vallee ’72, Timothy Boland ’81 and Theodore Boland ’84 LuAnne M. Bordonaro ’84 of Clarksville, TN, formerly of West Hartford, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 22, 2015 at age 49. Born in Hartford to Paul T. and Natalie (Melluzzo) Bordonaro on September 8, 1965, she was raised in West Hartford. LuAnne was employed at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN, as a cameraman and was also the producer of her own local television show called Country Time Today. Sister of Paul Bordonaro ’81 Peter F. Boyle ’70, of Norfolk, CT, passed on from this life Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at age 62. He was the son of William and Kathleen (Kennedy) Boyle, born on November 29, 1952 in Hartford, CT. He graduated from St. Michael’s College in Colchester, VT and went on to earn a Master’s degree in Psychology from George Washington University in Washington, DC. Peter also earned a Master’s degree in Communications from the University of New Haven. During his 35 year career as a Rehabilitation Counselor with the State of Connecticut, Peter helped tens of thousands of people realize their dreams. He also taught Psychology for 20+ years at Naugatuck Valley Community College and served on the Norfolk Board of Education. Brother of Michael Boyle ’69, Stephen Boyle ’72 and Maria Boyle Des Biens ’78 Michael Banes D’Amico ’85 died May 12, 2015 at age 47. Born in Milford, Mass., on September 22, 1967, to Stephen and Sandra (Banes) D’Amico, he grew up in the Hartford area and moved to New Hampshire in 1998.

Mike worked as a prison guard for the Fort

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Devens Federal Prison. Brother of Christopher D’Amico ’91 and Jason D’Amico ’92 Gail Doherty Foss ’65 of Zephyrhills, FL passed away November 14, 2014, at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills at age 67. Gail was born in Hartford, Connecticut and worked at Aetna in Connecticut for many years starting at the age of 16. She was a long-time resident of South Windsor, CT until relocating to Florida after her husband’s retirement, where she was an active member of her church community at the Alliance Church of Zephyrhills. She was the beloved daughter of the late Edward J. Doherty and Josephine Moylan.

Sister of John Doherty ’74 Patricia (Patty) Brewer Hall ’81 of Cary, NC passed away after a long and difficult battle on Wednesday June 3, 2015. She was born February 28, 1963 in West Hartford, CT the daughter of Edward and Carol Brewer.

Patty graduated from Eastern Connecticut State University in 1985. Patty spent most of her career working as an Executive in Health Care Compliance for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Bravo Health Care and Cigna. Sister of Stephen Brewer ’79, Edward Brewer ’80, Thomas Brewer ’82, Maribeth Brewer Morrissey ’84, and Alison Brewer Jamin ’88 Carolyn Perfido Hogan ’65 passed away January 23, 2015 at Hartford Hospital at age 67 following a brief illness. The daughter of Ronzo and Blanche (Goulet) Perfido, Carolyn was raised in West Hartford. She attended Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York and graduated cum laude from Central Connecticut State University before settling in Manchester. A profound lover of children, she was dedicated to the staff and students at Bowers Elementary School as a paraprofessional for over 20 years.

Paula Bradley Mitchel ’71, 61, of Ivoryton, died suddenly at her residence on Saturday, October 4, 2014. Paula was born in Hartford, daughter of the late Paul and Katherine (Scherbakoff) Bradley.

She graduated from the Mohegan Community College RN program and worked at Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist in Meriden.

Joyce Ann Matijczyk Morgen ’65, of San Rafael passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 6, 2014 at age 66, surrounded by her family. She was an insurance underwriter for over 30 years.

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Denise Haylon O’Neal ’73 of Roanoke, VA and formerly of West Hartford, succumbed to her lifelong battle with Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy on January 20, 2015. Denise was born February 11, 1955 in New York City and grew up in St. Louis, MO. and West Hartford, CT. She set an example for her siblings by graduating from the University of Notre Dame and receiving an MBA from George Washington University. Sister-in-law of Carol Dupuis ’80; aunt of Anne Haylon ’03 and Lisa Haylon ’06 Sandra Lecis Stack ’78, died November 10, 2014 at her home at age 54. Born and raised in Hartford, daughter of the late Adolf and Gertrude (Zaune) Lecis, Sandy worked for the Travelers Insurance Co. and Hartford Hospital.

She was a great cook, and loved to entertain her friends and family.

Kathleen A. “Sully” Sullivan-Pentalow ’74 of Berlin, CT passed away January 13, 2015 at age 58 at home surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Hartford, daughter of the late Michael J. and Nancy (Donlin) Sullivan and lived in the area all of her life. Kathy had a life-long career with American Airlines. She started as a Reservations Clerk and rose through many positions before retiring as a Customer Service Agent and Training Coordinator for American Airlines at Bradley International Airport after 33 years of dedicated service. Kathy then went on to volunteer with The Hospital of Central Connecticut as a receptionist and with the Sacred Heart Food Pantry of East Berlin.

John Joseph Walsh ’75 of Somers died peacefully on Sunday, April 5, 2015 at age 57 at home surrounded by his loving family. With unwavering strength and positivity, John battled brain cancer for 14 months. He was born in Hartford on July 16, 1957, the son of the late John and Mary (O’Neil) Walsh. John grew up in West Hartford and then moved to Somers in 1984. He obtained a BA in Public Administration from the University of Hartford. He began his career as an industrial paper salesman at Georgia Pacific in 1981 and then worked as an account executive for International Paper from 2000 to 2014. Husband of Betsy Chesnut ’76; brother of Nora Walsh Schachter ’72, Patrick Walsh ’72 and Elizabeth Walsh Haynes ’75; brother-in-law of Susan Chesnut Stone ’72, Nancy Chesnut Gautier ’73, Caroline Chesnut Blair ’78, Sara Chesnut Prete ’79 and Amy Chesnut Crowley ’82; uncle

ALUMN I N E W S

IN MEMORIAM (CONTINUED) of Suzanne Gautier ’05, Jacqueline Gautier ’07 and Augusto Gautier ’08

CURRENT FAMILIES

ALUMNI FAMILIES Helen Jean Albrecht, grandmother of Mark Albrecht ’98; grandmother-in-law of Debbie George Albrecht ’99

Nunzio Basile, great uncle of Olivia Mirabello, member of the Class of ’13, Anna Mirabello ’15, Luca Mirabello ’18 and Dante Mirabello ’19; uncle of NWC faculty member John Mirabello

Catherine K. Alquist, mother of Jeff Alquist ’83 and Michael Alquist ’84; mother-in-law of Beth McNulty Alquist ’87

Mary Catherine “Kitty” Horigan Boscherini, aunt of Will Horigan ’15

Josephine (Gulino) Angelico, grandmother of Maria Angelico ’06 and Joseph Angelico ’08

Anna M. Burns, grandmother of Patrick Tanguay ’09, Kathleen Tanguay ’12 and Sean Tanguay ’16

Linda M. Barrett, wife of Robert Barrett ’68

William James Dalo, uncle of Ellen Dalo ’16 Edward F. “Ed” Dillon, grandfather of Louis Dillon ’17 Gloria J. Ferranti, grandmother of Christina Bray-Smith ’95; grandmother-inlaw of David Smith ’96; great-grandmother of Joseph Smith ’17 Phyllis Carol Giannone, grandmother of Gabriella Giannone ’15 and Anthony Giannone ’17 Leonora “Lee” (Krasniewski) Goroshko, mother of Ken Goroshko ’73; grandmother of Colleen Goroshko ’15 Valle P. Lattanzio, Sr., grandfather of Kerre Lattanzio ’16

John M. Ambruso, Sr., father of John Ambruso ’76

Clarke Bassett, husband of Kathy Dunn Bassett ’79; brother-in-law of Edmund Dunn ’68, Ruth Dunn Moschella ’73, Peter Dunn ’76 and Mary Dunn Miner ’79

Felecia Draines, sister of Holli Draines ’93 Aynesse Farrah, mother of Rhonda Farrah ’76, Rommerro Farrah ’77 and Albert Farrah ’85 Anne Bernadette Conley Funcheon, grandmother of Anne Dante Carroll ’78, Anthony Dante ’81 and Joan-Ellen Dante ’01; great-grandmother of James Carroll ’05, Katherine Dyson ’05 and Matthew Carroll ’06 Frank Gallagher, father of Eileen Gallagher Donahue ’77 and Brian Gallagher ’81 Joseph Frank Gaspar, father of Sarah Gaspar ’93

Harry Price Black, husband of Janet Lynch Black ’72; brother-in-law of Kathy LynchMussen ’69 and John Lynch ’72

Elizabeth “Betty” (Kocot) Henry, mother of Laura Henry Buda ’05

Saverio Catalano, father of Helene Catalano Fusco ’73 and Robert Catalano ’78 Patricia Mary (Read) Carpenter, mother of Kenneth Carpenter ’65, Douglas Carpenter ’67 and Keith Carpenter ’68; mother-in-law of Barbara Blanchfield Carpenter ’72 and Stephen Quish ’74; grandmother of Jill Carpenter Devor ’99 and Kelly Carpenter Habif ’99 Robert F. Cleary Sr., grandfather of Thomas Cleary ’06 and Julie Cleary ’09; father of the late Robert Cleary, Jr. ’70

Gary A. McNeil, father of Carrie Herron, NWC Board Member; grandfather of Evan Herron ’11 and Abby Herron ’16

Charles W. Cobb III, uncle of Richard Cobb ’75, Michael Cobb ’77, Mary Cobb Gothers ’80 and Christopher Cobb ’83

William P. Murphy, father of Robert Murphy ’76 and Dan Murphy ’80; father-inlaw of Alison Kearns Murphy ’80; grandfather of Christian Murphy ’12 and Anderson Murphy ’17

Walter “Walt” J. Curtin, father of Michael Curtin ’85 and Kathleen Curtin Scherer ’89

Barbara A. Wade, grandmother of Katharine Jessen ’17 and Sarah Jessen ’17

Dr. William Downes, father-in-law of Tina Downes ’75; grandfather of Billy Downes ’05

Fernand J. Berube, father of Diane Berube Purcell ’77

Marie Manzione, grandmother of John Manzione ’16

Anthony (Tony) Poniatowski, grandfather of Chris Poniatowski ’17

Bernard Dowd ’69, Gregory Dowd ’73, Kevin Dowd ’77 and Thomas Dowd ’78; father-in-law of Thomas Cullen ’68 and Joan Davoren Dowd ’73; grandfather of Scott Cullen ’95, Christopher Cullen ’98 and Brian Cullen ’01

Dominick John “Bobby” D’Amato, father of Kathleen D’Amato Cezus ’68, Maureen D’Amato ’72 and Mary Ellen D’Amato Mosher ’74; father-in-law of Vincent Cezus ’73; grandfather of Michael Daly ’96, Jennifer Daly ’99 and Eric Cezus ’99

Constance F. Wilcox, grandmother of Abigail Wilcox ’18

Ann M. Davis, mother of Elaine Davis Charette ’71, Gail Davis Cardwell ’73, Nancy Davis Mainelli ’77 and James Davis ’80

Alfred W. Zanelli, grandfather of Katie Krocheski ’18

Michael Edson Debboli, father of Michael Debboli ’05 Donald Richard Dowd, D.D.S., father of Lisa Dowd McGinley ’66, Donna Dowd Cullen ’68,

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Francis D. “Shanty” Hogan, father of Mary Frances Hogan ’74, Ellen Hogan Cazzetta ’75 and Joyce Hogan ’77 Mary Brewster Jason, wife of Ed Jason ’71; mother of Courtney Jason Driesch ’99, Ryan Jason ’02, Lindsey Jason ’05 and Clayton Jason ’07 Patia M. Kinnicutt, mother of Patia Flaherty Haverty ’84; grandmother of John Haverty, member of the Class of ’15 James Joseph Leary Jr., father of James J. Leary III ’65, Colleen Leary ’66, Joan Leary Thomas ’69 and Patricia Leary Badeau ’72; grandfather of James J. Leary IV ’05 and Sean Leary ’07; father-in-law of Paul Badeau ’71 and Jane Leary, NWC Director of Constituent Relations Ann (Nan) K. Lenihan, mother of Mary Lenihan ’69 and David Lenihan ’70; motherin-law of Paul Faulkner ’76 Preston Dean Liebig, father of Mary Liebig ’75 and Christopher Liebig ’83 Diane M. Maciejewski, mother of Kayla Maciejewski ’10 Dominic Marandino, Sr., grandfather of Alexandria Marandino ’08 and Gabriella Marandino ’10 Colleen Barry Michelson, mother of Katherine Michelson ’06 and Robert Michelson ’08

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Mary (Betty) Yerrington Moran; grandmother of NWC faculty member Dan Avery ’97 and Brian Avery ’02 Rudolph Remigino, uncle of Michael Remigino ’87 Judith (Wilbur) Scalise, grandmother of Robert Scalise ’10 Louise Mary Russo Goodwin Shea, mother of Patricia Shea Lovell ’78

Urban ’67 Kevin Ciprian Choi Vitale, son of Dr. Marie Pauroso Vitale ’81; nephew of Roseann Pauroso Gomez ’77, Meg Pauroso Blair ’79, Cathy Pauroso Partridge ’85 and Beth Pauroso Marcioch ’87 Floyd W. Webster, grandfather of Chris Griebel ’03, Paul Griebel ’05 and Stephanie Griebel ’08

FACULTY, STAFF, AND ADMINISTRATION Lois A. Fletcher, mother of Scott Fletcher, NWC faculty member Katherine (Polansky) Kentfield, aunt of Debra LeBel, NWC Advancement Assistant Marie (Ratti) Mancini, mother-in-law of Bill Tressler, NWC faculty member

Dr. Edmund Thomas Welch, father of Jan Welch Norwood ’71, Leslie Welch Rogers ’76, Louise Welch Daves ’79 and the late Edmund Welch III ’73; grandfather of Ted Welch ’93

Ruby Sutherland, mother of Deacon Jeffrey Sutherland, NWC faculty member

Mary R. Sposato, grandmother of Reverend Michael Rogers SJ ’98, Francis Rogers ’04 and Mary-Kathryn Rogers ’14

Mildred E. (Funk) Whalen, grandmother of Allison Whalen Frailey ’05 and Daniel Whalen ’06; grandmother-in-law of Jackman Frailey ’05

Rev. James G. Fanelli, Former Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of Hartford

Lucille Flanigan Urban, stepmother of Stephen Urban ’67 and Ronald Urban ’71; stepmother-in-law of Maggie McCormack

Annette Gloretta Womack; mother of Keith Womack ’05

Alan James Sheehan Sr., father of Maryann Sheehan Schuppe ’78; grandfather of Kate Schuppe ’11 and Megan Schuppe ’13 Francine Mary (Willick) Sider, mother of Justin Sider ’01 and Capt. Joshua Sider ’03

FRIENDS

Paul H. Nelson, husband of Leslie Nelson, staff member for the Office of Catholic Schools of the Archdiocese of Hartford

DOUBLE YOUR GIFT TO THE NWC FUND – WITHOUT SPENDING AN EXTRA DIME! How? Through a Matching Gifts Program that your employer may offer. In many cases, a company will match the same amount you give, and you get the credit for the company’s gift, too! Contact the human resources or benefits administration department at your company for more information and the necessary forms.

Simply include the matching gift forms when you mail your gift to NWC. If you make your gift on-line at www.NorthwestCatholic.org/GiveOnline,

50 • L O G O S

simply check “yes” on the Matching Gifts question, indicate your employer’s name, and email or mail the form to us.

Not sure if your employer offers a Matching Gifts Program? Visit www.

NorthwestCatholic.org/MatchingGifts and type in your employer’s name. NWC Advancement Assistant Debra LeBel (dlebel@nwcath.org, or 860-236-4221, x 139) is also always happy to assist with any matching gift questions.

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

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 listing 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 Colby Thresher, Planned Giving Officer, at 860-236-4221, ext 156, or cthresher@nwcath.org. Or Pat Walsh, Director of Advancement, at 860-236-4221, ext 138 or pwalsh@nwcath.org. You can also inform us directly at www.

NorthwestCatholic.org/The1961SocietyEnrollment.

MEMBERS OF THE 1961 SOCIETY Theresa Notte Becker ’76 and Clint Becker Drs. Catherine Foley Bodak-Gyovai ’65 and Levente Bodak-Gyovai Phil Bonee ’72 and Valerie Bonee +Clarence Bourret (AP) Timothy F. Bourret ’73 +Maureen Dennehy (Former Faculty) Rev. Henry C. Frascadore (Former President)

Karen L. Fritsche (Friend) Frank Genovese ’65 and Susan Genovese Kevin Grenham ’78 and Beth Grenham +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) +Francine M. Sider (AP) Dennis P. Sullivan (AP) Ronald E. Swanson (Faculty) +Elizabeth P. Sweeney (Friend) Colby and Anita Thresher (AP)

+ Denotes Deceased

THERESA NOTTE BECKER ’76 AND CLINT BECKER Theresa Notte Becker ’76 and Clinton Becker believe there is no greater gift one can give a child than a Catholic education, which is why they sent their children, Matthew Becker ’11 and Mary Becker ’13, to Northwest Catholic as well. “Being true believers in a Northwest Catholic education where the administration, faculty, staff and board are dedicated to teaching excellence combined with the teachings of our Catholic faith, we decided to become members of The 1961 Society. Through planned giving

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

we will be able to give other children the gift and blessings of a Northwest Catholic education. We are honored to be an ongoing part of this school and this wonderful community.”

Theresa graduated from Bowdoin College and retired from a career in reinsurance and asset management. She has served on the NWC School Board, the last three years as Chair of the Board. Clint graduated from Central Connecticut State University and recently retired from the Travelers Insurance Company, where he was a Regional V.P. for National Accounts Property Underwriting.

S P R I N G / S U M M E R - 2 0 1 5 • 51

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If you receive a copy of Logos for your son or daughter who has established a separate permanent address, please notify us at jleary@nwcath.org or 860-236-4221, x131

www.NorthwestCatholic.org

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