CRUSADER VOL. 37 ISSUE 1
Fall/Winter 2023
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A PUBLICATION OF LONG ISLAND LUTHERAN
Educating the Whole Child for a Lifetime of Learning OUR COMMITMENT TO FAMILIES: LuHi is a Christ-centered, college preparatory school whose mission is to glorify God by educating young people in body, mind, and spirit. By the time your child has graduated from LuHi, they will: • Develop a strong sense of joy and purpose as they work to make a positive impact in the world • Build their knowledge, skills, and experiences to successfully go on to a college or career of their choice • Be a compassionate leader who celebrates diverse people, groups, and situations • Desire to serve others as a natural extension of their faith – grounded in Christ and rooted in love
Interested in learning more about the LuHi experience? Scan the QR code or contact the Admissions Office to schedule your visit! Admissions@luhi.org • 516.626.1736
Serving Grades 6-12
A PUBLICATION OF LONG ISLAND LUTHERAN
VOL. 37 ISSUE 1 Fall/Winter 2023
Head of School John Buck ’02 Assistant Head of School | Principal Jessica Raba ’98 Assistant Principal for Student Life Chris Reno Assistant Principal for Academics Laura Callahan Editor Janna Kalin Art Director Jeanine (Kempster) Davis ’88 Photography LTRay Photography Pineapple Shirt Productions Wavelight Photography
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Letter from Mr. Buck
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Around the School
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Academic Village
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Construction Project
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Global Education
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From the Bleachers
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Auction Recap
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Alumni Spotlight
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Alumni News
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Faculty News
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Memorials/Gifts
Board Chris Nicholas ’91, President Thomas Holcomb, Vice-President Elizabeth Bezrutczyk, Secretary Kathryn (Hinsch) Huffman ’05, Treasurer Joanne (Klempel) Llano ’80, Assistant Treasurer Dyan Barton Chang Guan Connie Luciano Erik Olson ’06 Stephen Olsen ’75 Daniel Pugliese Derek Sells ’81 Rev. Harry Schenkel ’87 Robert Schwenkel Rev. Justin Vetrano Lisa Walsh
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A WORD FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Friends, You may be aware that I serve as boys varsity basketball coach at LuHi. For the past eighteen winters, I’ve been in the rhythm of writing practice plans, preparing for games, and leading young men to work together towards a common goal. I’ve taken away countless life lessons through athletics, and many of my mentors are current or former coaches. I’ve learned the power of creating a vision, the importance of improving incrementally each day, the need to pay attention to detail, the growth that comes from pushing beyond normal limits, and the long-term benefits of staying resilient in the face of adversity. I’m thankful to be able to use these skills to help lead LuHi towards a thriving future. Since 2020, we have referenced the goals of our strategic plan, Shine. Over the past three years, an incredible amount of work has taken place behind the scenes to advance these goals. I am beyond excited to share visible progress toward the Inspired Spaces goal in this issue. To deliver our mission to the best of our ability, we determined that our learning spaces must communicate a commitment to excellence and community building. A full renovation of our 30,000-square-foot academic wing will do just that! Demolition inside the building is essentially completed, and state-of-the-art mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems are now being installed. In the fall of 2024, LuHi students will enter one of the most premier learning spaces imaginable! Our theme for 2023-2024 is Stand Firm, inspired by Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. In that letter, Paul encourages us to put on the full armor of God to emerge victorious from spiritual battles. This year, the majority of classes are taking place in our Academic Village, a group of mobile classrooms positioned on the middle courts of campus. Walking outside throughout our beautiful 32-acre campus certainly provides health benefits, and Academic Village classrooms are bright and air-conditioned. However, this major shift in operation has required our community to adjust. Cold and rainy days can be uncomfortable. Science classes have had to be flexible, taking trips to nearby LIU Post to use lab facilities. Change is never easy, but our theme and Christian identity reminds us to approach challenges this year with grace, patience, faith, and great hope for the future. Advancing a bold vision takes the effort of an entire community. Continuous positive momentum will come from the prayers, thoughts, and gifts shared by all who care deeply for LuHi and its mission. This January, we will host a dinner to launch our newest capital campaign, Rise.Shine. An invitation to this special event is found to the right, and I hope you will consider joining us! I am truly grateful to have you on our team and look forward to staying in touch.
God Bless,
John Buck ’02, Head of School
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R I SE.SH I NE. T H E C A M PA I G N FOR LUHI
KICK-OFF DINNER LuHi Classroom Wing
05 . 16 . 2022
100 Level Classroom Corridor
PARAGRAM www.paragram.io
Thursday, January 25, 2024
The Fox Hollow
7725 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury, NY 11797 6:00 pm LuHi Classroom Wing
05 . 16 . 2022
100 Level Robotics Classroom
PARAGRAM www.paragram.io
If you’d like to attend and did not receive an invitation by mail after Christmas, contact Jane Lottes, Head of Advancement at jane.lottes@luhi.org.
RSVP by January 17
Thank You! The LuHi Fund annually supports the LuHi experience for our students — academically, spiritually, socially, and physically. Thank you to all of our generous donors!
Scan the QR code to view a series of videos from Lia ’24 on how funds from this important campaign shape the lives of LuHi students just like her.
Around the School Back-to-School Kick-Off Events As we transitioned into a new school year with the Academic Village in place, LuHi students, families, faculty, and staff gathered together for opening kick-off events that included games on the turf field, tours of campus, and opening worship. Mister Softee was on hand to provide refreshments!
Spirit Day / Pep Rally In October, Student Government leaders planned a fun-filled week of Spirit Dress days, including Pajama Day, Country vs. Country Club, On Wednesdays We Wear Pink (complete with a bake sale to support breast cancer research and awareness), and the traditional School Colors Day! The entire school community gathered together for a spirited Pep Rally to support our fall athletes, complete with competitions between teams. Crab soccer by our football team was a hit! Banners beautifully and festively decorated our gym and contributed to the palpable spirit! Students supported, in droves, our fall teams in their Homecoming weekend contests. Middle schoolers had their first fall event, sponsored by their student government representatives and advisors, where they enjoyed some pizza and worked together to create banners to bring to Volleyball, Soccer, and Tennis events in support of the high school athletes!
Classroom Highlights Our sixth-grade class culminated their study of archaeology and the scientific method with a mini archaeological dig! Each group received a specimen of dirt that had a surprise hidden in each layer. Using their observation and hypothesizing skills, they were able to make interesting predictions about what was beneath the most visible layer! Our AP Environmental class had the opportunity to visit the Waterfront Center in Oyster Bay with their instructor, Mr. Billy Edzards, and Lab Coordinator, Ms. Helen Sher. The East Bay ecosystem became their classroom as they embarked on a 2-hour marine education sail, a captivating way for the students to connect theoretical knowledge from the classroom to real-world observations. Being on a “floating classroom” not only offered a change of environment but also allowed for a more immersive and interactive learning experience. In the sixth and seventh-grade math classes this year, students are experiencing a journey of numerical discovery through the innovative Desmos program. This interactive platform is a game-changer, revolutionizing the traditional approach to math education. As the students dive into the intricacies of mathematical concepts, Desmos breathes life into abstract theories, transforming them into engaging experiences. Through the Desmos program, students not only see and understand mathematical principles but also actively participate in their application. Mr. Klemp and Ms. Cleary and their students give it rave reviews! Dr. Tendler’s English 11 class recently embarked on their study of The Great Gatsby. The exploration started with a unique approach, as students explored the captivating era of the 1920s. The students created small group presentations that delved into comparisons between the Roaring Twenties and contemporary times. As they began chapter one, each group was assigned a character to analyze through that chapter. This activity invited students not only to read but also to actively engage with the timeless themes woven into Fitzgerald’s classic novel.
Fall Theatre Production Under the direction of Mrs. Nicholson and Pastor Vetrano, LuHi’s drama club put on an incredible rendition of Clue. The students poured much time and energy into perfecting their roles and collaborating to provide an entertaining experience for all in attendance! 6 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
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Around the School Christmas Performing Arts Events On Saturday, December 9, LuHi students in Middle and High School Band, Strings, and Choir, under the direction of Mr. Rodis (Band), Dr. Nagao (Strings), and Dr. Brown (Choir) helped the LuHi community usher in the Christmas season with our annual Christmas concerts. The culmination of months of lessons and ensemble work, the musical offerings were received with great enthusiasm! On Thursday, December 14, Ms. Benincasa’s middle and high school dance classes held their Christmas showcase with a wide variety of Christmas-themed dance numbers, some choreographed by LuHi students. Preparation has already begun for the Fine Arts Festival in May 2024! Join us on May 17 for the Dance Showcase and May 19 for Band, Strings, and Choir Concerts as well as our Visual Arts displays!
Co-Curricular Highlights At the start of the school year, students were invited to attend the Co-Curricular Fair during both lunches and speak to club advisors — the fair showcased many opportunities for students to consider and make plans for their after-school activities. We’re thrilled to announce the addition of a middle school Art Club, and in high school, Mock Trial, Pre-Med Club, and Film Club. Other tried and true co-curriculars are continuing to surge with activity! These important organizations help to round out our students’ experience as we educate them in body, mind, and spirit!
6th Grade Intramurals Twice a week after school, our sixth-grade class has an opportunity to learn a different sport and have some competitive fun! Coach Jarred Slawitsky works with the youngest members of the LuHi family to teach skills that they can build upon in their future athletic careers! They can even join in just for fun. Experiences include tennis, flag football, soccer, and much more!
College Day Mrs. Walters and Ms. Ehrlich worked with our sixth-grade students and teachers to host what has become a LuHi tradition, 6th Grade College Day. The day started with an information session about what it is like to look for and apply to a college. Following the information session, students research an assigned college with their pseudoadmissions team and prepare a trifold presentation for a mock college fair held in the cafeteria at the end of the day. This experience is a memorable one for the students as they prepare themselves for the college admissions process in the future.
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LIU Labs While our Science labs are being renovated this school year as part of our classroom wing project, LuHi is enjoying a partnership with Long Island University (Brookville) to ensure that our Biology, Chemistry, and Science Research students can access engaging and rigorous laboratory experiences. At least once a month, each class makes the less than 10-minute trip to LIU, where they engage in hands-on experiences in the college lab setting. Our teachers enrich students’ experiences in the classroom with demonstrations and labs that do not require a full lab setting.
Retreats Sixth graders enjoyed a fun-filled two-day experience in October. On the first day, the class visited the BOCES Outdoor Center in Brookville and sharpened their cooperation and team-building skills on the low ropes courses. The second day was spent on the LuHi campus, which began with a worship service conducted by Pastor Schoepflin. The second day was filled with fun, food, and time spent being grateful for each other and coming together as a class! Seventh Graders traveled to Camp Olmstead in Cornwallon-Hudson, NY. They spent two nights at this beautiful location as returning and new students strengthened bonds and experienced the beautiful outdoors. Again facilitated by Pastor Schoepflin, the group participated in an impactful worship service and returned to campus grateful for new friendships!
Protect Young Eyes LuHi partnered with Protect Young Eyes to deliver engaging, meaningful content about the intersection between adolescent mental health and technology use. Through parent-focused and student-centered presentations, members of our community gained tips and tools to support the healthy growth of middle and high school students in this time of ever-growing technology access.
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Academic Village
Navigating Change:
Life in the Academic Village by Jessica Raba, Assistant Head of School/Principal
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ack in 2019, when the Board of Directors approved LuHi’s Strategic Plan, Shine, the campus master plan was in progress. As a graduate of the class of 1998 hailing from a family of LuHi graduates, it has been no secret that our main classroom spaces (the 100 and 200 hallways specifically) have left room to be inspired these past couple of decades. The strategic plan goal of Inspired Spaces points directly to the first phase of LuHi’s Master Plan, which our community determined to be our classroom spaces. After many years of design work with incredible partners, the renovation of over 30,000 square feet of classroom space began this September. Alongside planning for the construction project, our team was tasked with planning for continued school and summer program operations throughout construction. Last school year, as our Admissions team enrolled the largest number of new students since 2002 and our enrollment grew to surpass the goal, we worked together to design and plan for the construction of a temporary, yet school year-long plan, for learning to continue even while the majority of our classrooms would be under construction. Fast forward to August 2023: as weeks 7 and 8 of LuHi Summer Programs began, daily deliveries of the components of 19 classroom units, 1 faculty room unit, and 2 bathroom units made way for the onsite construction of said units, followed by electrical and plumbing provisions, heating and cooling units, network infrastructure, teaching
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tools, PA system, signage, and finally, desks, chairs, and other items, all ready for the first day of school on Thursday, September 7, 2023. While the star of the show is certainly the renovation of our main classroom wing, now well in progress, the condensed construction of the temporary Academic Village as it is affectionately known was no small feat! Daily campus operations have shifted for this school year to include the flow of pedestrian traffic up and down the main hill. The sidewalk has been cordoned off by gates and cones, and students move from block to block with an extended passing time of 7 minutes, just enough time to make it from the lower level of the Ammerman Center for a music class to the farthest reaches of the Academic Village in AV-20 where AP Environmental Science and Middle School Physical and Earth Science is the focus. Each available square foot of classroom space is in use, including the Library Rotunda, which serves as a Spanish classroom, and the Resource Room shifting to the Mac Lab in order to make way for upper-level Mathematics. Through this all, the heroes have been the teachers and students, who have made the adjustment just about as seamlessly as could have been anticipated. Donning coats in the cold and putting up umbrellas in the rain, LuHi’s outdoor spaces are seeing more movement during the school year than perhaps ever before. And students are
here for it. In a recent conversation, Dominic ’26 and Bernard ’26 shared that they think they may actually miss the Academic Village when we move into the new classroom spaces. Rebecca ’24 shared that the classrooms in the Academic Village are nicer than the spaces where classes like Math and Social Studies used to take place, and students overwhelmingly point to the air conditioning and heating units in each of the classrooms as a major plus, particularly as the temperatures grow colder now as winter has arrived. One of the most noticeable changes to the student experience this year has been the increase in walking expected of students. My Advisory class meets in the Ammerman Center gymnasium, and several students must walk from the farthest reaches of the Academic Village, up the main hill, through the portico separating the main hallway and Chapel, through the senior courtyard, up the stairs to the Mansion Courtyard, then down the Ammerman Center stairs into the building. Phew. Step counts are on the rise, campuswide. There are days when this is welcomed, and others when this feels like a chore, but the students are surviving. Parents have shared positive feedback on the increase in movement, and we are looking at ways to incorporate more and more movement into the daily experience of students even next year when daily operations shift back to the main building. With the entire classroom building out of use this year, laboratory experiences for our science classes, particularly in
Biology and Chemistry, would prove challenging. We explored several options and decided that hands-on, in-lab experiences would be vital to the success of our students. Through our partnership with Long Island University (Brookville campus), which houses our boarding program (Long Island Boarding), we have established a cadence of travel between LuHi and LIU which provides our students the opportunity to use collegiate laboratory spaces to enhance their science learning. On at least a monthly basis, each class travels with the support of Mrs. Helen Sher, long-time Biology teacher who now serves as Lab Coordinator, to LIU. The benefits are many-fold, including regular visits to a college campus. We look forward to continuing our relationship with LIU even after our students have the chance to work in the state-of-the-art Science labs and the Robotics and Innovation Center which is under construction as part of our classroom building renovation. As our current construction work continues and we seek God’s guidance in future steps of our Campus Master Plan, we commend our students, faculty, and staff for adjusting so smoothly to the shift in the daily experience at LuHi. God has created us to be resilient, and this year’s shifts, twists, and turns have proven that our community has resilience in spades. I look forward to sharing more about the student experience in future publications. Please stay tuned to our social media channels for updates! FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 11
Construction
Classroom Wing Construc
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ction Update
Take a sneak peek behind the scenes of our transformational construction project! We are incredibly eager to welcome our students into brand new, premier learning spaces in the Fall of 2024.
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Global Education
GLOBAL HORIZONS: by Jessica Raba, Assistant Head of School/Principal
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n a world that is increasingly interconnected, the development of compassionate, educated leaders for the future must include an emphasis on both language skills and cultural awareness. Through a variety of curricular and co-curricular offerings and the growth of our international student programming, LuHi students have opportunities to experience an education increasingly focused on global perspectives.
World Languages Offerings LuHi’s World Languages graduation requirement exceeds that of New York State and thereby most other schools in the area. Why? Requiring at least three high school credits in a continuous language learning sequence, LuHi students experience both an introduction to the language and a move toward increasing fluency both in expressive (speaking, writing) and receptive (listening, reading) skills. Over three years, they have the opportunity to grow, not only in their language and communication skills, but also begin to build cultural awareness. And, the offerings don’t stop at Level 3. For students who choose to continue their world language education, LuHi provides Level 4 and Advanced Placement French and Spanish Language courses. In the 2023-24 school year, our Spanish program expanded to include a half-year Level 5 course for those students interested in continuing to develop their language skills but unable to fit an additional AP course into their schedule. Occasionally, students will engage in language learning that includes both French and Spanish, and at times, students have elected to pursue AP Literature courses in Spanish or French, demonstrating a keen interest in language learning well beyond LuHi’s requirements. We are grateful for teachers who foster such a love of language learning in LuHi students. LuHi’s middle school provides students with rich opportunities to both select their language of focus as well as to earn a high school credit in language. Starting in 6th grade, students engage in language and culture study, focusing on each of the two offered languages for a semester at a time. With students entering LuHi from varied world language backgrounds, this structure provides an opportunity to equalize the language learning experience as well as spark interest in decisionmaking as groundwork is laid to meet the three-year requirement. In 7th and 8th grade, students participate in coursework that breaks the Level 1 language course into two years. Successful completion of the two-year sequence results in a high school credit. 14 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
Nurturing Compassionate Leaders at LuHi Teachers in our World Languages department are not only passionate about their language area, which at present includes French and Spanish, they are well-versed and studied in the cultures of the various countries where the language is spoken. The embedding of vocabulary study and grammatical structures within cultural contexts, the examination of current events and historical shifts that have led to shifts in the languages over time, and the increasing ability to leverage technology to bring the world into the classroom are all approaches our dedicated teachers take in an effort to make the learning more relevant and engaging for students. Outside of classroom study, LuHi’s World Languages department provides multiple opportunities for student engagement. Middle and high school French and Spanish clubs, and more recently the addition of our World Languages Honor Societies in both languages, provide opportunities for both relaxed learning outside of the classroom structure as well as the chance to, in the case of our World Languages Honor Societies, challenge themselves to meet academic and service requirements for membership and contribute meaningfully as leaders in our school, furthering the study of world languages here on our campus.
International Travel International travel opportunities for our high school students include an annual international mission trip and a recreational international trip. Past mission trips to Nicaragua, Tanzania, Mexico, and more locally to Puerto Rico, which our alumni will remember, give way to this year’s planned mission work in Guatemala. Campus Pastor Adam Schoepflin ’05, along with several faculty chaperones, will supervise the work and guide our students as they engage as Jesus’s hands and feet in the world. Year over year, students return humbled and changed after this mission work, largely because of the opportunity to connect with local residents and build relationships. Our recreationally focused travel opportunities occur every other year and most recently travelers spent a week in Italy, immersing themselves in the culture with LuHi chaperones and support from a local tour guide. In June 2025, students in our high school will have the opportunity to travel to England and France for a packed itinerary that incorporates historical and cultural experiences.
Be the focus of student travel mission or enjoyment in nature, students are guided, in each case, to appreciate the nuances of culture as they engage meaningfully and respectfully with those they meet and the land they inhabit during their visit. While the focus of these travel opportunities is not on language development, our students have had the chance to use their skills authentically. Beyond that, we are proud that they bring LuHi’s core values of Christian Love, Excellence, Community, and Family with them as they represent their school and enrich their individual learning.
International Population LuHi has long enjoyed a tradition of welcoming international students and continues that tradition in a robust homestay program, where international students live with host families in the area. In recent years we have developed our own boarding program, Long Island Boarding. Housed at Long Island University just down the road in Brookville, the program, overseen by a residential life staff, the program has grown in recent years to include more than 20 students in grades 9-12. With 9 countries, including China, South Africa, Ukraine, and Spain, represented, at present, in LuHi’s student population, the opportunity to develop global perspectives is present in most classroom, passing time, co-curricular, and athletic interactions.
Impact and Future Planning Kaitlyn ’24 credits this feature of the LuHi experience as contributing to her awareness of the experiences of other students and the building of empathy in forming connections and relationships with her peers. Jamir ’24 agrees and shares that LuHi is preparing him to enter college life with a more expansive understanding of the world. As LuHi continues to move forward with the vision of developing compassionate and educated leaders for the future, our faculty, staff, and administration continue to explore ways to infuse global education opportunities in the daily experience of our 6th-12th grade students. From the blossoming of our International Relations course to interdisciplinary Beyond Boundaries courses that infuse global perspectives and varied cultural contributions in coursework like World Drumming and courses on French cuisine, as well as consideration of potential additions to our World Languages coursework, LuHi students will continue to be nurtured in global perspectives and educational opportunities both on campus and beyond. The future is bright! FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 15
From the Bleachers
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s we returned to school in September, team tryouts and workouts were already well underway, setting the stage for an exciting fall sports season. From football and soccer to cross country, volleyball, tennis, cheer, and dance, our student-athletes brought their dedication to the fields and courts.
VARSITY FOOTBALL The Varsity Football team competed on an independent schedule and finished the season with a phenomenal record of 8 wins and 2 losses. The team had victories over three opponents who went on to win their respective league titles: 41 - 22 over Hamden Hall (NEPSAC), 35 - 0 over St. John the Baptist (CHSAA class AA ), and 34 - 6 over Rye Country Day School (MIFL). The team was stacked with 17 stellar seniors led by MVP Thomas “TJ” Bacon, Jr. ’24, and finished ranked #18 in the entire state of New York by Max Preps. The season ended on a thrilling victory over Pennington of New Jersey when quarterback Jeremy Alexandre ’24 threw to Jadis Chenet ’24 for a 56-yard touchdown pass with under a minute to play, turning a 15 to 10 deficit into a 16 to 15 victory. Coach Reno and his team will undoubtedly have many happy memories when reflecting on the amazing 2023 season. VARSITY CHEER AND DANCE The Varsity Cheer team and the Varsity Dance team again showed their school spirit at games with high energy routines and cheers that always excite the crowd. The fall Pep Rally is always highlighted by performances from both teams that elicit cheers and smiles from our student body. Special congratulations to two dance team members, seniors Nia Maco ’24 and Tasheanna Wilson ’24 for five spectacular years on our dance team. VARSITY BOYS SOCCER While the Boys Varsity Soccer team did not light up the scoreboard with wins this year, Coach Bevan focused on skills and teamwork that laid the foundation for future success in the PSAA. Senior Ian Pagán ’24 led the team and also doubled as the kicker on the Varsity Football team. VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER The Girls Varsity Soccer team unfortunately suffered multiple injuries throughout the season which caused issues with the depth on the team. A big tip of the Crusader cap to Coach Mandolese and her team for staying together and fighting to the very last game. Senior goalie Sophia Waney ’24 was a bright spot for the Crusaders as she turned away many shots on goal by their opponents. VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS The Varsity Girls Tennis team was also an improved team this fall. Tatum Stanziale ’24 played #1 singles and brought determination and professionalism to each match. Newcomer Angelica Leon ’26 played #2 singles, went undefeated in league 16 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
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From the Bleachers play, and earned All-League honors. Coach Pursoo is looking forward to working with the girls for years to come. VARSITY CROSS COUNTRY The Varsity Cross Country team, under the direction of firstyear coach Sean Phillips, was a very young team and once again hosted a successful meet at LuHi on a gold star fall day. The runners from all the participating schools loved it and the team got a taste of what next year will bring. Nolan Radics ’25 paced the boys for LuHi and Juliana Fuller ’28 led the girls. JUNIOR VARSITY VOLLEYBALL The JV Girls Volleyball team was arguably the most improved team this fall! Coach Maurantonio used her wonderful relationships with the girls to motivate them to become the PSAA champions for 2023 taking down The Stony Brook School 2 games to 1 in a breathtaking final. Congratulations to the team and their eighth-grade leaders Faith Virgilio ’28 and Terri Bess ’28. MIDDLE SCHOOL Middle School sports are not focused on wins and losses but rather on fun, team building, and skill development for future high school years. The MS Flag Football team and the MS Boys Soccer team were a joy to watch as Coach Scannell, Coach Abrams, and Coach Edzards instilled the ideals of sportsmanship and community. Alex Encarnacion ’28 was awarded the Coach’s Award for the MS Soccer team and Frankco Harris ’28 earned that honor for the MS Flag Football team.
FALL ATHLETIC SIGNING DAY On Tuesday, November 14, LuHi celebrated athletes from this year’s senior class with a signing day in the Hahn Center. Congratulations to the following athletes and their families: Godswill Erheriene - Seton Hall University, Men’s Basketball Ka’Shya Hawkins - Syracuse University, Women’s Basketball Kayleigh Heckel - University of Southern California, Women’s Basketball Kateryna Koval - University of Notre Dame, Women’s Basketball Syla Swords - University of Michigan, Women’s Basketball Sophia Waney - Niagara University, Women’s Soccer Madeline Willocks - Howard University, Women’s Lacrosse
Follow us @LuHiAthletics on Instagram!
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LuHi Varsity Volleyball
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he Varsity Volleyball team, under first-year coach and LuHi Science teacher Mr. Noah Smitelli, set goals at the beginning of the season to recapture the PSAA title and make some noise in the NYSAIS Tournament. Behind the strong senior leadership of Olivia Nicolas ’24, Ella O’Hara ’24, and Kaitlyn Joseph ’24, the LuHi Varsity Volleyball team rolled through the league regular season with a perfect 16-0 record and defeated Catholic power Our Lady of Mercy Academy (OLMA) 3 games to 2 and St. Dominic 3 games to 0 for Homecoming en route to an 18 and 1 regular season. LuHi lost the first two games of the OLMA match but rebounded to take the next two forcing a game five. Riding the momentum of the match, LuHi won the fifth game 15 to 8 to complete the comeback and notch an impressive W. In the playoffs, LuHi toppled Stony Brook 3 games to 0 for a third time to capture the PSAA title for 2023. Juniors Samara Hughes ’25 and twins Kiera and Maya Stephenson ’25, along with sophomore Olivia Smitelli ’26 provided plenty of power on the court with their relentless spikes. The Crusaders received the #4 seed for the NYSAIS Tournament and hosted The Dwight School in the opening round. In an exciting atmosphere, the Crusaders won 3 games to 0 and advanced to the Quarter Finals against the #5 seed Columbia Prep. Again LuHi came out strong and won the first game, but unfortunately lost 3 games to 1 in a close and intense match. It was such an impressive season and watching the games was exciting and motivating. The team chemistry was obvious and with the talent coming back for next season, the Crusaders will be poised to repeat! Go Crusaders! FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 19
Bid for Kids
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Auction Action at Bid-for-Kids XXXIX!
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ights, Camera, Auction was a show-stopping success as hundreds of LuHi parents, alumni, and friends joined together with energy and excitement to support our LuHi students on November 10 at the Crest Hollow Club in Woodbury. Topping the list for the night – red carpet, show-stopping outfits, lively conversation, vying for the winning bid on top prizes, and engaging support for LuHi service opportunities. Special thanks to Auction Chairs Rebekah Pappachen, Karen Chavez, and Donielle Welti for their servant leadership and to the hundreds of LuHi family and friends involved in sponsoring, donating, and volunteering. Excitement reigned as big raffle prize winners were announced, including – $1000 Apple Raffle – Heather Ross, Ring Raffle – Donielle Welti,
$1000 Cash Winner – Theresa Ross, and the Pick-A-Prize Winner – Neina Vetrano who chose a fishing trip in Montauk with her prize paddle. The night’s biggest success includes a heartfelt thank you to Elizabeth Alvarez, Krista and Paul Hinsch, an anonymous donor, and 32 LuHi friends who raised $40,500 for the Guatemala Service Trip and our Annual Meal Packing Event. LuHi is blessed by each of these special givers. A net income of $125,000 supports the LuHi Fund and the experience of all LuHi students and also provides essential financial support to families in need of tuition assistance. Revenue from the night brings our 39-year total over $4 million! We welcome you to celebrate our 40th Bid-for-Kids Auction on Friday, November 15, 2024. Plan to join us for an incredible night where everyone is a winner!
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Alumni Spotlight Jason with sister and LuHi alumnus, Jamie Carter-Jorif ’87 Jason representing the USA at the Council of Europe
Please give us a glimpse into your college and career journey since graduating from LuHi.
Jason Carter ’85 Please share with us a brief overview of your professional history.
After LuHi, I attended Columbia University and NYU School of Law. Although the bulk of my career has been spent in Washington, DC, I also have traveled the world for work. I’m now living parttime in Manhattan, where my wife is a lawyer at the U.S. Mission to the United Nations. (Yes, we are both international lawyers working for the United States.)
What advice would you give to LuHi students considering a career in your field? Call me! I love to talk. In the meantime, get as much international experience as possible, including travel, internships, and study-abroad programs in college.
I am an Associate Director at the U.S. Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Office of International Affairs. I’ve been in various roles at DOJ since 1997, and I currently head the unit that works with the countries of Europe and Central Asia. I regularly participate in meetings in Europe with the Council of Europe and the European Union, as well as with the Attorneys General of the UK and its territories (Cayman Islands, Bermuda, etc.). In addition to working on matters involving the extradition of fugitives (often high-profile ones) and evidence gathering, I also negotiate treaties with our foreign counterparts. Through work and personal travel, I am blessed to have visited 75 countries (and counting!).
How did LuHi live out its mission, for you personally, of creating “compassionate, educated leaders?”
I split my time between DC and NYC when I’m not traveling overseas or spending time at the beach in Delaware, where I can be found fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the views.
As for the Core Values, we must always keep family close. Family of course means one’s parents, siblings, spouse, and children, but it goes beyond that. It also means our greater family, including our friends and classmates and teachers. It even means our coworkers and neighbors with whom we are close. It means those with whom we choose to worship. If we cherish those relationships and treat those people with respect, our world and their world will be brighter, and that will have an exponential impact on the community and beyond. Cherish your small and big families.
When you look back at your LuHi experience, what are some memories or experiences that stick out the most? I loved pretty much everything about it. I owe much to LuHi, and I still have many friends from my time at LuHi. Among those good friends are Stacy Parker ’85, Kelly (Hughes) Bonsignore ’85, Gerald Vincent ’85, Linda (Sorensen) Ludecker ’86, Lisa (Von Bargen) Mueller ’85, and many others. All of my teachers were excellent, and the environment was friendly and conducive to learning. My top teachers were Dr. Trinklein, Mr. Beers, Mr. Koch, and Mrs. Wenger.
How did your experience at LuHi prepare you for success in college? With thanks to teachers like Mr. Beers, I was a pretty strong writer. I attended a school that focused on that, and I was well prepared for it. 22 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
I like to think that I’m a leader in the area of international criminal justice. And I hope that I am compassionate. I simply follow the leads of those who taught me, whether those persons are my parents or my teachers.
Looking back on your LuHi experience, which of the current LuHi Core Values (Christian Love, Family, Excellence, and Community) resonates the most?
As for excellence, we must always do our best. Someone close to me, but of a younger generation, recently said that he would “try” to do his best. In Yoda-like fashion, an elder in my family told him that he must not try, he must do. Indeed, if you make the effort – that is, if you try – then the result will necessarily be that you have done your best. And your best is often enough. That applies to school, work, and community. Let your excellence serve as an example to others. As with family, this will have an exponential impact.
Homecoming Welcoming our alumni home is always special! Despite inclement weather and a last-minute change to the football game, Homecoming 2023 festivities were moved to the Visscher Gym and over 75 alumni from the classes of 1971 to recent 2022 graduates came home to reconnect. The event featured spirited performances by the cheer and dance teams, heartfelt acknowledgments of football seniors, and an impressive showcase/scrimmage by the Varsity Boys Basketball Elite team. Afterward, alumni moved to the cafeteria for their annual all-alumni reception and anniversary classes gathered in different spots on Long Island for their own reunion events. Class of 1998
Class of 1983
It is never too early to begin planning your reunion for Homecoming 2024! Classes ending in 4 and 9 have anniversaries coming up— reach out to Jane Lottes to get started. Note: The class of 1973 kicked off their year of celebration at the all-school reunion and will be hosting a summer event. Please be sure to email Robert Carpentier at info@racpclegal.com to be sure you have all the most up-to-date information. Class of 1988
June 20, 2024
Brookville Country Club Are you ready to tee it up for LuHi again this year? Mark your calendars and secure your spot at our outing. Golfers at all levels of experience are welcome! Early sponsorships are available – please reach out to jane.lottes@luhi.org if you are interested in supporting via sponsorship. Registration will open in April – be sure to return your RSVP early as we sold out last year!
FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 23
Alumni News 60s Charles (Chuck) Dhyne ’65 is a retired teacher who worked in special education his entire career. Chuck is the founder and director of the South Jersey Field of Dreams, a program he started 20 years ago to give people of all ages with special needs a wonderful experience on the baseball field. Chuck lives near Atlantic City and his South Jersey Field of Dreams. (Dhynefam@aol.com; southjerseyfieldofdreams.com) We are sad to report the July 2023 passing of Loretta (Lloyd) Oelerich ’64, classmate and wife of Tom Oelerich ’64 and dear friend of so many of her classmates. A celebration of life was held in September and was attended by a few of her classmates. Sandra (Mitchell) Endersby ’67 and brother Jamie stopped by LuHi over the summer and ran into Head of School John Buck on their visit. See photo with brother Jamie ’77. Albert Kirchner, friend of ’67, lives in Annapolis, MD where he serves as Curator for the Engine 61 Museum. (coltoncrew@verizon.net)
70s Janet Jones ’79 and Greg Mass live in Somerset, NJ. She has retired after a fabulous 38-year career with Rutgers University. What’s next for her? Consulting, Mentoring, Coaching, Teaching, Gourmet Cooking, Boxing, Writing, Golfing, Traveling, Grandparenting, and enjoying friends and family as much as possible! (jbjones@echo. rutgers.edu) We are saddened to report the passing of Harry Cypher ’70 in May 2023 as a result of a traffic accident. His wife, son, and grandson miss him as does brother Alan ’72. Harry served in the teaching ministry for 36 years as both a teacher and principal in schools in Chicago and Anaheim. 24 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
We are sad to report the passing of Harold (Hal) Mayer ’70 of Bayville, NY on October 20, 2023. Harold will be missed by his wife Carole, his children, and his grandchildren. Jamie Mitchell ’77 and sister Sandy stopped by LuHi over the summer and ran into Head of School John Buck on their visit. (jamiemitchell1016@gmail.com) We are saddened to announce that Janine (Tappen) Woodrome ’77 of Cortland, NY passed away on August 26, 2023. She will be missed by her mom Joyce, her husband Richard, children, grandchildren, and family members including her sister, Diane Stammel ’71.
80s Michael Anderson ’81 lives in Roosevelt and is part of Game Over Sports and Entertainment LLC, which has been involved in afterschool programs throughout the City and around the country to support inner-city schools - Buckets and Bytes, Buckets and Robotics, Buckets and Books. (manderson@gameovernyc.com)
Alison Rabil ’82 lives in NC and continues to work in college admissions and financial aid. She also has her own business presenting to schools/families regarding the ins and outs of the process. In addition, she counsels individuals, relieving some of the angst and pressure in the process. (alison@financialaid-sense.com) Peter Baerenklau ’83 lives in IL and is self-employed with MP Logistics, Inc. (peter.b@mplogistics.biz) We are sad to report the passing of Gregory Johnson ’83 of Concord, NC on May 7, 2023. He will be missed dearly by his wife and two children. We are sad to report the passing of Stanley ’Stan’ Davis ’84. A celebration of life was held in August in South Hempstead. Jan Ganzel ’87 continues to travel from his home in Michigan each year to be involved with the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and their run, raising funds for Gold Star and fallen first responders and veterans. This year, he met up with LuHi Summer Programs staffer Jarred Slawitsky. Marie Dana ’88 works in sales and marketing for WVRC Media and lives in Martinsburg WV. (mdana171@gmail.com)
90s Heather Turco-Deak ’91 lives in Oakdale, NY and just remarried! (htplus3@aol.com)
LuHi classmates of Bob Gugliotta ’81 stopped by Freedom Brewing in Holbrook, his new business venture. Pictured L to R: Josh Gervey ’81, Jamie Trope ’81, Bob, Mike Satow ’80, John Brandtstetter ’80. (info@ FreedomBrewingCorp.com) We are saddened to report the passing of Richard “Rick” Gooch ’82 from cancer. Rick lived in Evans, CO and was involved in worship through Shelter Rock Church on Long Island.
Kim Napolitano-Perry ’92 was recently awarded the Maine Home Based Business of the Year for 2023 by the US Small Business Association. She shares that she owes much of her success to her time at LuHi, not just for the education but for the values and sense of community instilled in her. Mrs. Weaver played a significant role in her love for making, while Mr. Beers and Mrs. Kast helped her develop her writing skills. (ksnapolitanoperry@gmail.com) David Glassman ’98 lives in Brooklyn NY and works as a Principal Software
Engineer. (davidglassman@fastmail.com) Jonathon Knox ’98 is a dad of three children and a Financial Advisor at Empire Wealth Strategies. (jonathanjwith3@gmail.com) Jaime Pena ’98 lives in Wesley Chapel, FL and works at APTIM Environmental. (jeuse316@yahoo.com)
00s After corporate fundraising for Asheville Humane Society and running their most successful annual fundraiser to date (Dine To Be Kind), Dan Gruhn ’03 has accepted a position as Accounts Manager for The Blood Connection, a local blood donation nonprofit serving North Carolina, South Carolina & Eastern Georgia. (danielgruhn@gmail.com) Aaron (A.O.) Baker ’05 is a copywriter for Atlantic New York. His team was recently awarded 3 Cannes Lions awards for their Super Bowl campaign with The Last Blockbuster Video Store in Bend, OR. (aaronomarbaker@gmail. com) Erik Olson ’06 was recently elevated to partner at CBMS Law. Erik became an Associate in 2014, counseling clients on appropriate estate planning and estate administration strategies to ensure clients preserve assets and protect their legacies. As a partner, Erik will continue to advise clients with additional responsibilities and mentoring of junior associates. Jessica Ellerbe ’07 is serving as the first female chief of the Uniondale Fire Department. She will focus on recruitment, upgrading technology, and increasing mental health awareness. (jessica_ellerbe@yahoo.com) Matthew Fili ’07 lives in Nashville, TN and works as Director of Sales Engineering for Trilliant Health. (mattjfili@gmail.com) Kathleen (Duffy) ’08 and Alex Grene ’08 are parents to sweet daughter Sarah. Kathleen is in her last year of
medical school at Tufts, graduating in May 2024 with an MD/MPH, pursuing pediatrics. She just finished a research year on gun violence prevention policy research. John Anglin ’09 married Clara Wendland on July 15, 2023. John works for the Colorado Department of Natural Resources as a Wildlife Viewing Specialist writer/ artist and the couple lives in Lafayette, CO. (apegreatness@gmail.com) Congratulations to Alexandra Fili ’09 and her husband Matt on the birth of their daughter Riley Bell Bissonette, born on November 22, 2023. Allie is a dentist (DMD) in the Nashville area.
10s Jordan Channer ’10 is married, and they have a 3 year-old. The family lives in Hempstead. Jordan is enrolled in the NY School of Ministry to become a Certified Minister within the Assemblies of God Denomination. Lauren (Klose) LaPoint ’10 and her husband Tim welcomed beautiful baby girl Mathilda Loretta on December 10, 2022, a few months after they closed on their home. She was recently promoted to Director of Communications & Marketing at her job. (laurenklose14@gmail.com) Kristen Klose ’15 is an Occupational Therapist NHS and has moved to London to practice OT, travel Europe, and make a long-distance relationship more local! (klosekristen@gmail.com) Adriana Vollono ’15 married Noah Carles on June 29, 2023. They live in Leesport, PA where Adriana works as a teacher. LuHi grads were
abundant at the wedding! Cathy (Moyse) Vollono ’81, Danielle Vollono ’13, Zachary Vollono ’17, Dorothy (Smith) ’81 and Steve ’83 Viole, Katie Flomer ’16, Kristen Klose ’15, Dominick DeRosa ’15, Tyler Revan ’15, and Jessica Roberts ’15. Jon-Michael Channer ’18 is a professional guitarist, certified personal trainer, professional chef as well as an entrepreneur undergoing two projects in development. (jmac5020@gmail.com) Matthew Harrison ’18 lives in Freeport and is an FDNY EMT. (mattyjim6@ gmail.com) Justine Sweeney ’18 is completing her Doctor of Physical Therapy at Sacred Heart University in 2024 as she completes her last year of clinical rotations. (justinesweeney14@ gmail.com) Emma Smitelli ’19 graduated in May 2023 Magna Cum Laude from the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology with a B.A. in
Psychology. She is continuing her education at Adelphi to earn a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling. (emmagracesmitelli@gmail.com)
Alumni Graduated? Got married? Welcomed a new baby? Moved or changed jobs? We love to share your updates with the LuHi Community! Please reach out to jane.lottes@luhi.org with any updates to share in the next Crusader!
FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 25
Faculty News Welcome New Faculty/Staff Brian Abrams Social Studies
Josh Corbin ’02 PE/Health
Brian comes to us with over fifteen years of teaching experience in Social Studies, at varied grade levels. Brian spent eight years teaching in Arizona before returning to Long Island. His experience in education has also included coaching, mentoring, and serving on various committees. This year, Brian is co-advising one of our newest clubs, Mock Trial.
Josh is certainly not new to our campus. Many of you will remember him as a student, graduating in 2002, as well as the Associate Head Varsity Basketball Coach for our boys’ varsity team. He also works for LuHi Summer Programs as the Director of the Summer Basketball Program. He will now be joining our faculty, teaching the Strength and Conditioning class, as well as assisting in the grades 7 and 8 PE classes.
Kentaro (Ken) Kolbert Science
Amrit Kolekar Summer Programs
Ken joins the Science department as our Biology and AP Biology teacher. Ken is a Long Islander who started his career in the Biotech Research space on Wall Street but found his way to teaching after completing his Masters at Iona University. Ken is a first-year teacher and is very enthusiastic about his students and their learning.
Kristy NixHirsch Summer Programs Kristy has joined the LuHi Summer Programs as an Assistant Director! Kristy brings athletic strength to the team, with a background in competing in high-level athletics as well as coaching at all levels. Her leadership experience and interpersonal insights have brought value to the many young people that the Summer Programs’ team serves, and we’re excited to see her impact increase.
Amrit has joined the Summer Programs team as Camp Administrator! Amrit has brought a strong skill set to the team, adding value to our family customer base and administrative team with her efficient and endearing work style. Her professional experience in pharmaceuticals, fundraising, and nonprofits, combined with her personal experience in family life, has provided a unique perspective that continues to push our team toward excellence. Alexandra Rebolledo World Language Alexandra Rebolledo joins our World Language Department this year teaching Spanish 1B, 1, and 2. She completed her Masters in Hispanic Language and Literature from Stony Brook University and has previously taught in the Riverhead and Huntington school districts. Alexandra’s talents are a welcome addition to our already stellar World Language Department!
William Edzards Science Billy joined us as a new addition to our Science Department. He comes to us from Archbishop Molloy High School, with experience in teaching Earth Science, Conceptual Physics, as well as Health and PE. He was previously a science teacher, Coach, and Athletic Director for many years at St. Martin de Porres Marianist School. Billy will be teaching seventh grade Science and Earth Science, as well as AP Environmental. Roy Labrador ’84 Development We are pleased to introduce Roy as the newest addition to the Advancement Team at LuHi, where he will serve as our Engagement & Major Gift Officer. Roy’s primary focus will be to connect with alumni, friends, and external organizations, inviting their support for the enriching Christian educational journey of LuHi students. Roy is enthusiastic about joining the LuHi team!
Joshua Tendler English Joshua joins our faculty this year in the English Department. He formerly held the role of English teacher, as well as English Department Chair at HANC Brookdale High School. Here at LuHi, he teaches the junior English classes, as well as Reading and Study Skills for 10th and 11th grade.
Former Faculty and Staff Congratulations to Katherine Gibson, former business teacher, who received the Lifetime President’s Volunteer Service Award for volunteering more than 4000 hours to support non-profit organizations – St. Brendan’s HS in Brooklyn, Bayville-Centre Island Rotary Club, and the Operation-Initiative Foundation.
Congratulations to Dr. David Hahn, longtime Head of School, and Janet Hahn, longtime LuHi middle school teacher, on receiving the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from Concordia University Chicago at the Maroon and Gold Dinner on October 13, 2023. They received the award in recognition of their extraordinary efforts in advancing Lutheran leadership, growth, and development.
Congratulations Bob McKillop, former Summer Programs Director, onetime Interim Executive Director, and longtime LuHi Boys Basketball Coach can be seen in “Stephen Curry: Underrated.” In the words of former Head of School David Hahn, “It is exciting, inspiring, and full of clips and commentary from our own Bob McKillop!” Hahn shared that McKillop was also a guest speaker at The VanLunen 2.0 Conference, a conference for Christian school administrators from across the country.
Janna Kalin, our Director of Admissions, and her husband, Dan, joyfully welcomed their first child, Sawyer, into the world on June 23, 2023. They are completely smitten! John Rodis celebrated his 25-year anniversary as Band Director at LuHi by directing a group of alumni and former players in a surprise event/ concert put together by the LuHi Arts Academy.
LUHI DATES TO REMEMBER Meal Packing
March 10-12, 2024
Graduation June 15, 2024
LuHi Open
June 20, 2024
FALL/WINTER FALL/WINTER 2023 2023 the CRUSADER 27
Gifts for the Good of God’s Children Many thanks for gifts received from these friends, recorded from 6/1/23-11/30/23, as well as the many matching gift corporations that support our donors and school. Anonymous Shefali and Nitin Ajmera Elizabeth Alvarez Sandra and Warren Aplin ’72 Jocelyn and Stephen Appel Justin Barton ’99 Laura Bauer and Leonard Diana Paula Oyarce and Joseph Baumgarn Diane and William Beardslee ’71 Kelly and Paul Becht Maria and Timothy Beckett ’95 Darlene and Jeffrey Benz Elizabeth and Paul Bezrutczyk Rosanna Perotti and Mohammed Bouzaidi Joseph Bracconier ’99 Gina (D’Errico) ’87 and Michael Brennan Suzanne and Christopher Briller ’92 Jennifer and Eric Brown Kasey and John Buck ’02 Kenneth Byrne ’87 Kathryn Cammarata Susan (Cusick) ’78 and Jeffrey Carpenter Dorothy and Jason Carter ’85 Alexa Cavacchioli ’09 John Cottrell Julie (Hahn) ’00 and JT Cox Barbara and Rev. Dr. Gary Danielsen ’65 Mark Delluomo Donna and Edmund Dunn Alex Ebanks ’08 Pamela Ellison ’75 Allison (Hahn) ’05 and Ed Elowson Tina and Randy Fairhurst Sharon and Larry Faust Deisy Fernandez and Mario Diaz Lauren Fix ’65 Marjorie and Patrick Fortune Milka Rodriguez-Francisque and Patrick Francisque Kathy and Rev. Charles Froehlich Sam and Samara Ginzburg Kaitlin Goldgraben ’05 Diana and Johnson Graham Nora and Howard Graves ’69 Pat and William Griffith Magalie and Hugh Hackett Janet and David Hahn Karen and Bryan Hallock Bryan Hallock ’16 Gary Hecker ’67 Kathy and Shephard Hill ’71 Anna Hinsch ’09 Lisa (Schuller) ’79 and James Hinsch ’80 John Hinsch ’65 Krista and Paul Hinsch ’70 Jana and Paul Homer
28 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
Kathryn (Hinsch) ’05 and Anwau Huffman Janna and Daniel Kalin Kristin (Hahn) ’03 and Matt Kehoe Noreen and Daniel Kern ’75 Haeyoung Ahn and Stanley Kim Jacquelin and Jonathan Klemp Brianna Klenkel ’14 Jane Kramer Eva and Stephen Kratzke ’69 Anissa and Roy Labrador ’84 Deborah Lang ’87 Doris Lezny Xiaocheng Wang and LiYan Li Joanne (Klempel) ’80 and John Llano Jane and John Lottes Denise Louther-Williams and Derri Williams LuHi Class of 1988 Nancy Manigat Simone Manigat ’23 Kara (Schwenkel) ’03 and Nathanael Martone ’03 Lori (Sauter) ’72 and James Mason ’71 Caryn (Gettler) ’64 and Patrick McDermott Rosemary and Griffith McNair Kathy (Treiber) ’64 and Gil McNally Jennifer McNamara Denise Merkle Barbara and Kenneth Michaelsen ’66 Janice and Jeffrey Moeller Alycia and Raymond Morell Pamela and Brian Murphy ’74 Barbara (Mutz) Muze ’78 Mary and Bill Nader Dana and Chris Nicholas ’91 Laurel (Cammarata) ’04 and Rory O’Mara JoAnn and William O’Brien John Olita ’08 Erik Olson ’06 Ann (Tyson) O’Neill ’66 DeDe and John Passeggio Gretchen (Trinklein) ’68 and Bob Patti Brendale and Corey Pegues Samantha Perovich ’06 Christopher Petrullo ’08 Vincent Piazza ’09 Denise and Daniel Pugliese Carla Quatraro-D’Arcy ’94 Jessica (Hinsch) ’98 and Douglas Raba Kerin and Douglas Rausch ’89 Kelly and Christopher Reno Kerri and Timothy Ressmeyer ’78 Judy and Joseph Riley William Roberts ’01 Denise Rosario and Donald Rivas Loretta and Frederick Ruff Rebecca and Dwayne Russell Lisa and Rev. Harry Schenkel ’87
Maria Rom-Schmidt ’83 and Kenneth Schmidt Catherine and Jeffrey Shaw ’72 Karla and Christopher Sorenson ’99 Meredith and Daniel Stanton ’94 Susan Stegmeyer ’73 Shamar Stephen 2009 Jamelle (Watson) ’88 and Michael Straker ’91 Lauren (Hoffmann) ’72 and Richard Straub ’68 Allison (Ruff) ’83 and James Sweeney Marietta and Anthony Tartamella Lisa and Thomas Thiets Christene Tucker ’01 Neina and Rev. Justin Vetrano Pimonphan Vodkrathok Catherine (Moyse) ’81 and Anthony Vollono Barbara Ward Grala and Louis Warren Jeff Weigand ’85 Joan (Bischoff) ’69 and Brian Welcker Margaret and Paul Wenger Stacy Scott-Wilds and Jonathan Wilds Stephanie Wollenburg and Tom Arapidis Akin Gump Bank of America Charitable Foundation Caribbean Diaspora United, Inc. CyberGrants SPV The Daphne Seybolt Culpeper Foundation, Inc. Goldman, Sachs & Co. Good Shepherd Lutheran School Gray Recovery, Inc JC Martone Consultants, LLC LCMS Foundation - Oliver W. and Emma W. Allen Scholarship The Life Church LuHi Open Martone Family Foundation The Melinda and Marlin Fitzwater Foundation The Milton and Fannie Brown Family Foundation, Inc. Nanoia Recycling Equipment Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Prescient Enterprises LLC Primary Research Consultants, Inc. Rising Stars, Inc. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Thrivent Financial UKOGF Foundation The Victor H. Nelson Revocable Living Trust The William Raymond Motz Family Charitable Trust
Thank you!
Thrivent Choice Thrivent Choice lets members help choose where Thrivent Financial gives back. Members eligible for “Choice Dollars” help direct Thrivent Financial’s charitable dollars to Lutheran non-profit organizations and congregations enrolled in the program. We thank the following individuals who have directed Choice Dollars to Long Island Lutheran from December 2022–November 2023. Christine and Elias Anchundia Sherry and George Anderson Laura Bauer and Leonard Diana Susan and Charles Beers Dell-Ann and Thomas Benson Kasey and John Buck ’02 Stephen Dettling ’03 Laura Bauer and Leonard Diana Erica (Larsen) D’Urso ’93 Michele and Douglas Endorf ’79 Christian Erickson ’69 Janet (Sluder) ’72 and David Fitzpatrick Linda Fix Lauren Fix ’65 Nora and Howard Graves ’69 Catherine Heinzerling ’71 Marite Hennessey
Krista and Paul Hinsch ’70 Jean and David Hornung ’71 Doris and Rev. Christopher Hoyer Todd Huebner Kathryn (Hinsch) ’05 and Anwau Huffman Linda (Nunziata) ’68 and George Jablon ’65 Bettyann and Frank Jacovino Lynn and Donald Jaeger Christine and Brian Kaatze Jacquelin and Jonathan Klemp Carla and William Koch Peter Konrad ’71 Grace and Edward Lichtenwald Jane and John Lottes Kathie (Tobin) ’68 and Albin Martin ’68 Gabrielle (Smitelli) ’11 and Anthony Maurantonio ’11 Kathy (Treiber) ’64 and Gil McNally
Kristina and James Messerschmidt ’77 John Messerschmidt ’74 David Needham ’98 Jessica and James Needham ’87 Laura (Peter) ’69 and Rev. Thomas Noon Cathy and Peter Oberg Carol (Warren) ’65 and Richard Otto Nancy and Thomas Perovich Robert and Anne Rickmeyer Nancy Rose Capps ’68 Rev. Douglas Rosenvinge ’72 Lisa and Rev. Harry Schenkel ’87 Joyce Tappen Jean and Rev. Charles Vogeley Catherine (Moyse) ’81 and Anthony Vollono Debre (Harring) White ’83 Stephanie and Richard York ’66
ESTATE COACHING THROUGH LUHI
A new year ushers in the perfect time to visit your estate plan. Write or update your will and make important decisions instead of putting them off again this year. And what better reason to do it? LuHi offers free and confidential estate coaching with a knowledgeable estate coach for our LuHi families, alumni, alum parents, and friends! If you don’t have a will or haven’t updated yours in a while, Craig Mellendorf of SFC Estate Coaching will help you understand your options and every aspect of your estate. He will also help ensure your money and assets go to those you care about. These one-on-one virtual coaching sessions are free, educational, and completely confidential. He is there to help you make your plans a reality.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY. Scan the QR code or if you have further questions, contact Jane Lottes, Head of Advancement at jane.lottes@luhi.org or 516.626.1700 x549. FALL/WINTER 2023 the CRUSADER 29
In Memory and Honor We express our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the following people in whose memory LuHi received contributions between 12/1/22-5/31/23. GIFTS IN MEMORY OF Grace Berry
Philip Haas ’01 and Jason Koth Jane and John Lottes Laurel (Cammarata) ’04 and Rory O’Mara Abigail Simpson ’01 Sara Vargo Catherine (Moyse) ’81 and Anthony Vollono
Susan Devine
Catherine Brumsey
LuHi Faculty & Staff Kasey and John Buck ’02
Florence Davis
Lee and Bruce Davis ’73 Beth Flatley
Lauren Fix, 1965
LuHi Faculty & Staff Shirley Halterman and Family
Audrey Hebling
JoAnn and William O’Brien
Judith R. Hinsch ’70
Lisa (Schuller) ’79 and James Hinsch ’80
Lauren Iamascia Haynes ’01 LuHi Faculty & Staff Laura Bauer and Leonard Diana Linda Briganti Kasey and John Buck ’02 Laura and Ralph Bulle Kathryn Cammarata Mary Jane and David Cassaro
Barbara (Brown) Simms ’84
Ed Visscher
Harold Mayer ’70
Joyce Tappen
Lorraine Merkle
Stephanie and Richard York ’66
LuHi Faculty & Staff Kasey and John Buck ’02 Jane and John Lottes Rosemary and Griffith McNair Donna and Scott Orleman Linda and Gregory Pietrzak Catherine (Moyse) ’81 and Anthony Vollono
Gene Halterman
Robert Threadgill ’84
Marilyn Marcinco-Kent and Geoffrey Kent
Janet David and Elaine (Carle) Koop ’75
Emma and Frank Fix
Earl Thomas ’84
Nancy Kuck ’71
Edward Kuck ’71
Rev. Elmer and Ruth Eggold
Pauline Thomas
Warren Olsen
LuHi Board of Directors Kasey and John Buck ’02 Rosemary and Griffith McNair
Nancy Louise Ressaissi LuHi Faculty & Staff Kasey and John Buck ’02
Brooks Thomas
Donna Coogan and Jack Coogan ’22
Join us for Meal Packing 2024
Janine (Tappen) Woodrome ’77 Herman & Loretta York
GIFTS IN HONOR OF Avery, Paige, and Raina Cutwright Grala and Louis Warren
Daniel Doyle ’89 Robert Kopp Nick Pizzutello Erick Weinstein
Bukari Spann ’27 Gwendolyn Fortes
Matthew A. Stoddart ’23
Stephanie (Zacek) ’96 and Jonathan Brienza ’96
Charles R. Vogeley
Katelyn (Berti) and Eric Doyle
Fred vonBargen
Lisa (vonBargen) ’85 and John Mueller
OVER 3 MILLION MEALS PACKED IN 12 YEARS! March 10-12
Scan the code to register or learn more → 30 the CRUSADER FALL/WINTER 2023
Play. Discover. Create. LuHi has been the home and camp choice for thousands of Long Island children for over 60 years. Providing a fun-filled learning experience in Athletics, Arts, Recreation, & STEM, LuHi creates opportunities for campers to explore their talents and discover their passions! With over 25 diverse Specialty Programs to choose from, campers from all across Long Island and NYC find their home at LuHi Summer Programs. Traditional Day Camp & Specialty Programs available for campers entering PreK - 12th Grade! Summer 2024 Options Available Now! Learn more about how you can customize your camper’s experience at LuHi.com
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Register no
LuHi.com Email: SummerPrograms@luhi.org Phone: 516.626.1100 Instagram: @luhisummerpro ARTS
ATHLETICS
RECREATION
STEM
Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School 131 Brookville Road, Brookville, NY 11545 516.626.1700 | www.luhi.org
ATTENTION ALUM PARENTS! Did you receive multiple copies of this Crusader? Please tell your kids to email
Cathy Vollono at cathy.vollono@luhi.org with their current address so they can receive their copy at the correct address as well as be invited to regional events near their current home.
Please Keep in Touch Here are a few ways to stay connected:
@LuHi facebook.com/LiLutheran Long Island Lutheran High School Alumni and ask to join!