THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021
Explorer
To Strive To Seek To Find
WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURE
6
Explorer THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021
President Brother James L. Butler, FSC Principal James E. Fyke Vice President of Institutional Advancement Daniel L. McGowan Editor Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Contributing Writers Matthew Del Rio
ARTICLES
John P. Young ’83 Editorial and Production Assistance Cathleen P. Winning Photography Bradley Digital Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Flat Tail Photography, LLC Sam Fritch
3 SPORTS REPORT
Lifetouch Photography, Inc. Design Burns Design Group Address
HIGHLIGHTS
Explorer La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 215 233 2350 phone 215 836 4502 fax alumni@lschs.org www.lschs.org
14 PHOTO GALLERIES
The Explorer is published three times a year by La Salle College High School. The Explorer welcomes letters to the Editor concerning alumni, school, and other topics covered by and in the magazine. The Editor of the Explorer reserves the right edit and
DEPARTMENTS
2 FROM THE HIP ( LETTER FROM THE EDITOR)
4 LET US REMEMBER (LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT)
17 WE WELCOME AND REMEMBER ( B I R T H S A N D D E AT H S )
make all decisions regarding the content and information published in the magazine.
DEPARTMENTS
F R O M
T H E
H I P
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
M
y relationship with Mike
In 2001, we became colleagues when I returned
15 State Championships. Mike’s love for Music
O’Toole ’68 dates back
to La Salle as Director of Alumni Relations.
and The Arts is evident in the success of those
over 40 years to September
Four years later, I assumed his responsibilities
programs. Our technology is unmatched, and
of 1980 and my junior-year
in marketing, communications, and public
our AP and National Merit results are at the top
English class. I remember
relations. That summer and prior to Mike’s
amongst Catholic schools in the Mid-Atlantic
Macbeth and The Metamorphosis but am still
departure for Holy Ghost Prep, I published a
Region. More importantly, Mike has positioned
waiting for Godot. I vaguely remember the
short article about him in my first issue as Editor
La Salle well for what lies ahead. I titled that
second-floor classroom but definitely remember
of the Explorer. Fifty-some issues later, a more
first article in 2005, “A Man For All Seasons”.
his beard and command of the curriculum. What
detailed story appears across the pages that
I can personally attest that Mike has been that
I remember most is that he could teach, and
follow. The article by his former student John
and much more at his alma mater.
to this day, I still recall the way that he graded
Young ’83 along with Matt Del Rio tells the
papers with short phases that encouraged,
story of a man that has helped to transform an
almost demanded, great writing.
institution.
Jerry Hartey ’93 was my son, A.J.’s ’20, favorite teacher, so I had no chance in convincing him to take Mike O’Toole for AP English during his
Flash forward nineteen years when we were
Another of his former students, Mike Marek ’80
senior year. It’s a shame because he missed out
members of the Alumni Association Board
recently remarked that Mike O’Toole was
on a legendary teacher. Fortunately, thousands
of Directors. It was then that “Mr. O’Toole”
always “the smartest guy in the room”. While
of other students did not.
became “Mike” and he asked me to co-author
Mike is certainly a man of tremendous intellect,
(with another of my former English teachers, Ed
what I have grown to appreciate is that he is
Molush ’68) a feature article on the history of
more than just an alum or an administrator.
La Salle basketball for the Winter 2000 issue of
Like myself (and many others), Mike is a true
the Explorer. Little did I know that a few years
fan of the school and can be found at most
later I would succeed him as the Editor.
games, concerts, shows, and events. His
CHRISTOPHER M. CARABELLO ’82
passion for La Salle has guided his decisions,
EDITOR
Live Jesus In Our Hearts…Forever!
and since his return, La Salle College High School has excelled in every area. In his nine years as Principal, La Salle has captured 160 championships in sixteen different sports including two National Championships and
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ARTICLES
S P O R T S R E P O R T
IN A YEAR WHERE INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS WAS NON-EXISTENT AT MANY SCHOOLS, LA SALLE DEMONSTRATED A GREAT COMMITMENT TO ITS STUDENT ATHLETES AND THEIR FAMILIES. Competition in the Philadelphia Catholic League did not commence until late fall and no Philadelphia Catholic League Championships were awarded until February, which resulted in La Salle going to extremes to provide competition for its athletic programs. Some programs traveled to remote parts of the state to play games, while others competed against schools in the Suburban One League (District 1). Despite the hardships, the Explorers had a tremendously rewarding athletic year. To ensure that parents and fans could watch and support these programs, the school invested in an intricate network of wireless cameras strategically positioned at venues (gym, fields, pool, and track) throughout the campus that provided live streams for every home event.
LA SALLE FIELDED
47 athletic teams in 19 different sports
During 2020-2021, La Salle won: 2 PENNSYLVANIA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
La Salle has
Swimming and Baseball
776
H
student-athletes
357 are multi-sport athletes
103 of La Salle’s athletes are AP SCHOLARS
6 PHILADELPHIA CATHOLIC LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS Baseball, Bowling, Lacrosse, Swimming, Track and Field, and Volleyball H
In the last five years, La Salle has captured
87 championships in 16 different sports
34 members of the Class of 2021 will play 11 sports at 27 colleges and universities
33
9 DISTRICT 12 (CITY) CHAMPIONSHIPS
faculty members coach a sport
Baseball, Cross Country, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Wrestling
17 of La Salle’s 19 head coaches
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are members of the teaching faculty
DEPARTMENTS
L E T
U S
R E M E M B E R
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
DEAR ALUMNI, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS:
I
t was no doubt a stable world and a doubly stable La Salle when Michael O’Toole got off the public bus that made its way from Oxford Circle (with transfers enroute) in September of 1964. While
the name SEPTA itself was only two or three
weeks old, the transportation management model had yet to be implemented. La Salle had
settled into the new campus with a comfortable routine and familiar faces, having produced the first four-year Wyndmoor graduates the previous June. Brother Francis had been principal since the early 1950s. Well-known campus icons like Brother David Albert, Brother Emilian, Brother E. James, and the White Owl had navigated the move from Germantown to what was then the 19118 (though only for the 11 months since zip coding commenced). Obie and Tex were in the middle of their coaching careers. The only player missing from the original squad was Big Joe, who had been transferred off to northern Virginia by a changeminded provincial and replaced by Brother Carl. God was in his heaven, and Father Amandus was in his confessional. Even nationally, value coherence could be found. While they may
Fast forward a bit to September 1974, when
Fast forward a good bit to June 2021, and
Michael O’Toole ’68 began his teaching career
Principal Michael O’Toole is concluding that
at La Salle. Brother Emilian had just died, and
phase of his long career in education. While the
a Brother from the college was brought in to
faculty and staff from that 1975 Blue and Gold
teach out the Latin program then thought an
divide almost equally into the still living and the
anachronism. Brother David Albert and his
living eternally, only Joe Ciccimaro ’57 remains
German Shepherd had been transferred to
on the faculty. Three Brothers will be teaching
Ammendale, where he himself was shepherding
faculty members next year, and three others
the retired Brothers. Gone were the suitcoats,
help out, like me. The ties are back, and the
the ties, and many requirements from the
students know instinctively when an occasion
bygone days of the classical and scientific
requires them to don the (de facto not de jure)
curricula. Gone also were many of the Brothers,
uniform navy blue blazer. The youngest fellow
vanishing in the exodus that followed the
alumnus on staff graduated about 40 years later
Second Vatican Council. Their replacements,
than Mr. O’Toole. The senior English curriculum
now less than half the faculty for the first time
still features a hefty dose of the Greeks and
ever, were themselves a hodgepodge, some
a sampling of the Absurdists, a sign of his
dressed in traditional robes, others in the now
enduring influence as onetime department chair.
nearly normative black suit and collar, others
Interestingly, in the year that just ended, there
in a vertigo-inducing array of plaids, paisleys,
were three sections of Latin I, two of Latin II
and stripes. The yearbooks of this era were
and III, and one of Latin IV with 22 students in
as topsy-turvy as the times. It’s difficult to find
it. No longer anachronistic, I guess.
anything or anyone. Some reject even basic conventions of print media—capitalization, for instance. President Nixon’s resignation the prior month had briefly assuaged the national mood which became inflamed again with President Ford’s pardon on September 8th.
The Class of 2021 concluded their time at La Salle in a period of tumult and anxiety that will likely prove as culturally disruptive as those six years between Michael O’Toole’s graduation and his return to the faculty were. While current discord in the body politic is for a later
not have been wild about Lyndon Johnson
generation to analyze, the COVID-19 pandemic
compared to the urbane and youthful JFK, the
undoubtedly catapulted secondary education
overwhelming majority of Americans rejected
into instructional delivery formats that were
Barry Goldwater’s viewpoint as reactionary.
considered “on the horizon” in the 2018-19 school year. Fortunately, Michael was already there intuitively and had the faculty thoroughly prepared to make the leap—technological and the leap of faith—in March 2020. On the affective side. Mike participated in the team effort that was needed to combat student isolation, anxiety, and motivational deficits as the pandemic dragged on for 15 months.
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“For your faithful people, Lord, life is changed, not ended”: this beautiful line from the Roman Missal aptly describes
As do the members of the Class of 2021. Despite facing greater adversity and disappointment than any class since those of the Second World
the transition that goes on in Michael O’Toole’s life now,
War, the 241 members of that class on earth,
even while you read (Though I can just see him roll his eyes
achieved much, enjoyed much, and conquered
when he appreciates this line comes from the Preface to the Eucharistic Prayer in the funeral liturgy.). After a brief sabbatical and having handed over the reins of day-to-day leadership to long-time teacher and capable administrator James E. Fyke, Mike will be back, faithfully assisting in college advising, library management, and, naturally, by teaching English. Like his predecessor Dave Diehl ’55, Mike still has more to contribute as he turns his energies to the
with one watching over them from heaven, have much. Their prom and graduation, under the stars and sky respectively, were occasions celebrating not only transitions, but victory. Their record may have a couple of asterisks in it—for example, they won three more District XII (City) Championships than PCLs due to the vagaries of fall and winter competition. But their legacy will endure as they exemplify for us the truth of that alliterative Latin aphorism: per aspera ad astera —“from hardship to the stars.” Fraternally,
next chapter of his La Salle story. BROTHER JAMES L. BUTLER, FSC PRESIDENT
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ee ARTICLES
To Strive To Seek To Find BY JOHN P. YOUNG ’83
WITH MATTHEW DEL RIO
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ek Michael O’Toole entered La Salle in September, 1964, from Saint Martin of Tours Parochial School in Northeast Philadelphia, three months after his brother, Jack ’64, graduated. He traveled via the PTC (pre-SEPTA) three hours round trip each day, including a final halfmile walk from Willow Grove Avenue. The experience proved worth the time and the walk. His Class of 1968 encountered an experience that
“introduced us to a larger world, transforming my life.”
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His first year at Penn, Mike taught honors
Brother James explained the philosophy
algebra at Saint Martin’s on Monday nights.
of the La Salle Brothers in the 1960s, noting
Six years later he joined the faculty at
they were teachers who “wanted to move
La Salle, embracing the traditions of the
past rote learning toward more critical
Christian Brothers over a five-decade career
thinking.” Mike’s early teaching years in the
culminating in his return to La Salle as Principal
English Department brought him under
in 2012. Four months into his first term,
the influence of Gerry Tremblay, Bernie and
Hurricane Sandy disrupted school operations.
Eddie McCabe and he developed a reputation
During his last two years, COVID 19 shattered
as a challenging teacher. To long-time colleague
expectations of normality. As the Class of 2021
Joe Ciccimaro ’57 “He was a tough teacher,
graduates, Mike will complete his final term and
but he embraced the Lasallian tradition of
return to teaching and advising it. In many ways,
making sure that all kids, no matter their
his La Salle career has both paralleled and
skill level, have the opportunity to learn. This
impacted the evolution of the school
rang true whether Mike developed a special
which nourished his drive for excellence
arrangement for two top trumpet players to fit
and leadership.
AP English into their schedules or worked with John Grace ’73 to develop a cross-curricular
President Brother James Butler, FSC, who has worked with Mike since 2012, recalled his own work as a La Salle student-teacher in the early 1980s: “I have great memories of those
course for kids with minor learning challenges.”
Mike was elected English
days and those kids as my first introduction to
Department Chair at the age of
teaching under Brothers David Rogers and Tom
30 and ten years later, became
Speakman.” While the Brothers maintained a dominant presence, a growing number of
Director of the Summer Program.
lay faculty began impacting the school. Mike
His 11-year tenure as Director
recalled the Brothers’ charism and methods
FACULTY CREED We, the teachers of La Salle College High School, are challenged by the mandate of Saint John Baptist de La Salle to be actively involved in the ministry of touching hearts. Continually striving to embody the Lasallian Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher, we embrace our mission to provide a quality education to the young men in our care. Giving life to the legacy of La Salle, we support education which realizes the excellence, dignity, and connectedness of each and every person in the La Salle College High School community. We believe and affirm that through the practice of… RESERVE We remain respectful of the student-teacher
coincided with the first decade of
relationship, as we create an openness in our
us how to think critically and introduced us to
Saint Michael Hall, where a new
a world of service. Brothers Paul, Joseph (Jim
inclusive.
library, computer center and air-
from his student days, “The Brothers taught
Roche) and Jerome Taylor challenged us to open our minds, at the same time fostering a
conditioned classrooms offered
friendly, supportive communal spirit.”
room to expand the program sixfold. He also initiated an outreach
classrooms which is both professional and
GENTLENESS We discipline with consistency and compassion, striving to develop each student’s mind, heart, and judgment.
program to Northwest Philadelphia
HUMILITY
neighborhoods. Current Summer
our students, and our colleagues as we work
We acknowledge our own gifts, the gifts of
Session Director Barbara Chesnik
towards a success shared in community.
touched on Principal O’Toole’s
PRUDENCE
ability to share his insights:
We strive to attain a balance between the expertise of our subject areas and the
“I was extremely fortunate to
commitment we have made to the total
rely on Mike’s prior experience
development of each student.
which offered me several
ZEAL
ideas for expansion. He always
We bring a devotion and passion to the everyday responsibilities of our ministry,
understands the importance of
believing that our efforts for the students, both
establishing a strong foundation
in and out of the classroom, are continuing
for incoming freshmen.”
God’s love in their lives.
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Leadership skills evolve with new learning
In 2000, Mike was appointed Vice President
WISDOM
and new challenges. During the 1990s,
at La Salle, having declined a leadership offer
We communicate the knowledge of our
La Salle named Mike Curriculum Associate
from another independent school, and assumed
subject areas with a Lasallian dimension,
and simultaneously Director of Academic
responsibility for a portfolio of projects, from
presenting content in a way that best
Technology. He relocated to an office in the
editorship of the Explorer to school liaison
suits the individual student.
new computer center. “Bob Russell taught
during the construction of Sterner Hall to
programming classes on one side.” he
oversight of admissions for which he was asked
recalls, “The other side became a place for
to build upon his previous community outreach
interdisciplinary learning. La Salle was
programs. With seminal funding from the FSC
thinking bigger.”
Foundation, he created the Northwest Scholars
PATIENCE We accept the things that occur throughout the school day as part of God’s greater plan, trusting that through the continuing nature of imparting knowledge to our students His plan
Mid-career, Mike O’Toole also thought bigger.
for their salvation will unfold.
In 1994, he earned a year-long fellowship to attend the Klingenstein Center for Independent
VIGILANCE
School Leadership at Columbia University.
We demonstrate a singularity of purpose,
The program attracted teachers from schools
always remaining mindful of our commitment
such as Collegiate (NYC), St. Mary’s (OR),
to Lasallian education as we face the sometimes-difficult tasks of opening hearts and minds to God’s Love.
We share with our student’s love, hope, and an excitement for “living” out the “Good News” of the gospel, as we model how to be a person
value diversity and students will
Sterner, FSC and Principal Dave Diehl not
encounter a more diverse world
only supported Mike’s application but also
in college and their professional
tasked him with developing the school’s first Concurrent with La Salle’s first web site, the
endeavours.” Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council member Nary Smith notes that “Mike has been an amazing advocate and supporter for the DEI program, a visionary
Another important 1990s program responded to
who promotes the appropriate professional
decreases in the number of Christian Brothers:
development to ensure that we gain the
the La Salle Graduate Volunteer Program.
knowledge and are prepared for the job we do!”
encountering on their life journey.
The Brothers recognized the importance
GRAVITY
Saint La Salle through the formation of lay
We instill in our students the sense of the
faculty. Jim Tate ’94 and Chris Holwick ’94
seriousness of purpose in studying their
joined the program’s inaugural group and
subjects, and the importance of reflecting in
then the faculty in 1999, two of many current
their lives both a love of God’s creation and
teachers who re-entered La Salle through
their responsibility for keeping it sacred.
this program. Brother James emphasizes,
SILENCE
“The La Salle Volunteer Program
We center ourselves in order to hear the
is important with respect to the
Spirit leading us to know what is best
Management Kevin Dougherty ’00 notes,
to be diverse. The Brothers
plan debuted in 1995.
with them in the struggles they may be
the school. Vice President for Enrollment
educational issues in leadership, curriculum,
GENEROSITY
the spirituality of our life experience
program and enhance their roles in
School. His graduate cohort collaborated on
technology plan as his sabbatical project.
with the gift of ourselves, available to share
to African American Alumni to assist the
“The future of La Salle needs
for others.
We grace our colleagues and students
as the Drexel Program. He also reached out
Oxbow (CA) and Hong Kong International
mission, and equity. President Brother Rene
PIETY
Program, a program that continues today
of carrying on the spirit and traditions of
Mike enjoyed these varied leadership tasks, but desired a return to the daily school environment, and accepted an offer in 2005 to become Principal at Holy Ghost Prep.
“It was tough to leave La Salle after 31 years, but, like Odysseus, I wanted ’to strive, to seek, to find….’”
for our students, and also to be receptive
legacy of the Brothers. There is
to the spoken and unspoken language
a distinct La Salle culture, one
working to accentuate it within both
that people need to understand
academic and service programs,
and have enthusiasm for. Culture
core academic offerings, diversity and
of their hearts.
needs to evolve since teaching
He embraced the Spiritan school mission,
led a technology upgrade, and expanded service programs.
is a vocation where the teacher/ student relationship is at the center.” EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 9
ee In 2012, a new La Salle opportunity beckoned
Fundamentals of La Salle’s master school
and Mr. O’Toole became the School’s fourth
schedule had changed little since 1967.
lay Principal and Brother James Butler, FSC
Mike and his administrative team initiated a
the new President. The two were a formidable
process of schedule revision that continues
team. Joe Ciccimaro notes, “I was very excited
today, facilitating cycles of instruction, student
that they would be here together; they are both
participation, feedback, and follow-up teaching
academically and administratively experienced.”
within longer but less frequent class periods.
Kevin Dougherty knew Mike from his own
In 2017, the Glaser Center opened, facilitating
student days and was eager to work with him:
both schedule change and student opportunity.
“Mike was a La Salle guy through and through.”
Brother James recalls initial conversations about
Like many other independent schools since
the new center. “Mike advocated for a new
2012, La Salle has faced demographic hurdles
facility since it would give us greater flexibility
and has risen to the challenge. Brother James
in scheduling by reducing the number of lunch
explains, “The previous administration left
periods.” He also led an inclusive faculty
La Salle in a good place but there were still
effort to refine another Strategic Plan goal:
places to go. Technology, while strong, needed
defining “excellence in teaching,” a multi-year
to be placed in the hands of all students.
Teachers needed to use it as a resource.
undertaking inspired by the Twelve Virtues of a Good Lasallian Teacher. Extensive professional
Lasallian formation was key. The number of
development in assessment, technology and
Brothers was decreasing and growing the
feedback design accompanied schedule
endowment was vital to the future of
changes, which served La Salle exceptionally
the school.”
well during the challenges of COVID 19. Mike
Emerging school priorities prompted a
rethinking of teaching and learning toward
increased student-centered instruction, starting
with the one-to-one laptop program in 2013. As
reflects, “Changes in school life due to both
pandemic and generational shift have caused us to focus more sharply on what is essential and what is not.”
a new accreditation cycle approached, Mike
Kevin Dougherty describes curricular
articulated this rethinking, leading La Salle’s
changes during the past decade, such as the
transition to the more challenging protocol of
introduction of AP Human Geography (Grade
the Pennsylvania Association of Independent
9), as “fantastic strategic moves soon copied
Schools (PAIS). The accreditation committee
by other schools as testaments to creativity
recommended a revised master schedule, a
and effectiveness.” The School Administration
task fleshed out by the school’s subsequent
further accented the Lasallian philosophy of
Strategic Plan for the Third Decade of the New
“meeting students where they are,” expanding
Millennium. Brother James remarks, “Change
opportunities while continuing to be a place
was a major factor with respect to schedule.
for both rigor and innovation. Increased access
We needed one to meet the needs of teachers
to AP classes soon followed: enrollment
and students.”
in those classes more than doubled over the past decade while high levels of test scores continue. The number of technology courses has doubled, and the robotics program, originated in 2013, reached an important milestone in 2021: the District Chairman’s Award.
Mr. O’Toole’s senior English class resembled a college-level writing course as he guided us daily in developing our critical reading and analytical and persuasive writing skills. Clichés were unacceptable and the red notations on student writing papers early in that school year demonstrated that Mr. O’Toole recognized the life-long importance of these essential skills and challenged us in class to be active readers and precise writers. S C O T T H . W O L P E R T, E S Q . ’ 8 4 M A N A G I N G P A R T N E R , T I M O N E Y
K N O X ,
L L P
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ek, EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 11
I went to Mr. O’Toole for every issue when I was at La Salle – financial, academic, and social. For Black students who were part of the Katharine Drexel Scholars Program, he was the person who kept us sane, focused, and committed. When he became principal of Holy Ghost Prep, he surprised us at our prom to wish us well. He was with us from the beginning as our greatest champion and mentor and ensuring us that we had the ability to be excellent in all that we did. A N T H O N Y A . P H I L L I P S ’ 0 6 E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , Y O U T H
A C T I O N
TEACHING AND LEARNING IN ACTION Affirmed by La Salle Academic Council, April 14, 2021 Through planning and execution of professional assignments and responsibilities, the La Salle Teacher: • demonstrates active engagement with the full life of the school, both supporting and participating in Mission and Ministry and extra-curricular programs. • endeavors to understand and support students through dedicated awareness of their backgrounds, interests, talents, abilities, and participation in school life. • understands and promotes student-centered learning, prompting students to articulate their own feedback, understanding, and learning processes, constructing knowledge together with teacher and classmates. • empowers students to think critically, to analyze and synthesize content, and justify personal positions and opinions with reasoned arguments. • demonstrates and implements effective uses of multiple digital technologies in teaching • demonstrates the ability to pivot and change direction as needed based on student understanding and response. • facilitates multiple forms of feedback: instant and general concept feedback, meaningful formative assessment, and ongoing feedback on learning progress, providing a pathway for students to learn from their mistakes and take ownership of their own learning. • demonstrates the ability to model real life applications for topics and lessons and allows the opportunity for students to reflect and apply their own learning processes. • collaborates with teachers of varying instructional styles to learn and adapt new teaching methods on a continuing basis. • demonstrates engagement with her or his ongoing professional growth through careful planning of lessons as well as life-long learning and professional development.
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I remember the journals that we were required to keep one semester. Initially I looked at them as just another academic task. Over time though the exercise began to impact me the way I think Mike probably intended. I looked forward to writing about things that were on my mind (girls, college, the competition for grades, how the sky looked one day, contemplation about a new haircut) knowing that someone would read them. Mike wrote encouraging and sometimes funny notes that I think coaxed me to think and write more clearly. It also led me to write longer pieces based on a germ of an idea that Mike identified in his comments. R I C H A R D C AT R A M B O N E , P H D ’ 7 8 P R O F E S S O R O F P S Y C H O L O G Y G E O R G I A I N S T I T U T E O F T E C H N O L O G Y
( G E O R G I A
T E C H )
Maintaining its Philadelphia area dominance
Focus on future Explorers is crucial. Building
As he now transitions to a six-month break
during this time, La Salle’s athletic program
each new freshman class, Kevin Dougherty
and a return to teaching and advising at
spawned three new teams: rugby, volleyball,
encounters many grade school communities,
La Salle, Mike is grateful for opportunities
and squash. Director of Student Activities
“We currently have the strongest enrollment
to serve La Salle over many years.
Marie Stott adds, “Mike has always advocated
in school history,” he observes. “Mike’s
Always eager for new challenges, he recalls
for new clubs to respond to student interest
dedication to La Salle and the Brothers is
joining La Salle’s emerging championship
and has been open to innovative ideas. During
evident in his leadership of the school, in his
swim team mid-season in 1986 as moderator,
the lockdown, he pushed for clubs to move
tireless commitment to developing 21st century
responding to an unexpected need. “I never
online so that students could stay engaged
skills in our student body, and in fostering and
imagined this long path, but in retrospect, it all
in their extracurricular activities.” Service
cultivating music, service, athletics, and the
seems to make sense. With grace and faith,
programs at La Salle also maintain high levels
IT program. Brother James and Mike work
many things are possible.”
of participation, from the long-running father-
very well together. “Families are aware of
son work at Face to Face Germantown to
Mr. O’Toole and the variety of options and
new projects in Puerto Rico and the Christian
opportunities made available because of his
Brothers school in Scampia, Italy.
work.” Brother James adds, “His strength lies
Mike also observed Saint La Salle’s injunction to “touch hearts.” “He was at his best in times of distress and turmoil,” offers thirty-year veteran and Guidance Chair Marty Jackson, noting close consultations between Principal and Counselors for students in serious emotional or psychological trouble. “His calm and thoughtful insights in dealing with several serious student mental health issues during his nine years as Principal were admirable. His experience and wisdom aided students during their duress.”
in his willingness to accept and perhaps seek change, professionally or culturally. The people he has brought into the school focus on academic excellence and school mission. La Salle compares favorably with the best schools in the state. We have worked well together with great respect for one another. Parents also have a great deal of respect for him.”
After departing the Principal’s Chair, Mike will continue his work on the Advisory Board for De Paul Catholic School and as a member of the PAIS Commission on Accreditation. He is especially eager, however, to be able to spend more time with son Daniel ’05 in Washington, DC, and daughter Lara and grandchildren Lucy (age 5) and Julian (age 2) in Austin, TX. Most importantly, he hopes to be able to “repay forward” his constant companion, supporter, and, at times, necessary loving critic, his wife of 44 years, Mary Louise Castaldi. There will be more time
When asked about his accomplishments over
for dinner on time and household projects to
the past nine years, Mike points to “mission and
be finished. “Without Mary Lou’s love, advice,
people:” dedicated transmission of the Lasallian
and support, none of my school adventures
charism support and guidance for the teachers
would have been possible,” observes Mike.
who impact the lives of students. Roughly forty percent of current faculty have joined La Salle
“Mike’s leadership, especially during this
during his tenure, representing arguably the
pandemic, helped La Salle flourish when
most diverse set of backgrounds in school
other schools stumbled. His mandate to
history. Central to their professional orientation,
’maintain speed in the tunnel’ never was
a recently enacted three-year formation program
more prophetic. He led by example,”
highlights Lasallian history, pedagogy, and spirituality, modelled on the Buttimer Institute for Lasallian Education, a program Mike completed
notes Marty Jackson. Mike himself also credits frequent conversations with his
at Saint Mary’s College of California. Long-
sister, Maureen, director of a retirement
time Religion teacher, Mark Collins, comments,
community in Massachusetts, during
“When Mike became Principal, I began to
the pandemic. Another La Salle veteran,
appreciate and respect his embrace of Lasallian
Joe Ciccimaro, concludes, “Whatever
education. A person of great faith and intellect,
he attempts he puts his best into it.
he is highly professional yet practical and deeply committed to the well-being and success of our students.”
He is always at games, concerts, and activities. He has positioned La Salle to be a preeminent leader in all aspects of secondary education.”
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HIGHLIGHTS
P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
GRAND REUNION A P R I L
10-Year Reunion – Class of 2010
3 0 ,
2 0 2 1
35-Year Reunion – Class of 1986
5-Year Reunion – Class of 2015
15-Year Reunion – Class of 2006
10-Year Reunion – Class of 2011
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30-Year Reunion – Class of 1990
30-Year Reunion – Class of 1991
5-Year Reunion – Class of 2016
35-Year Reunion – Class of 1985 EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 15
HIGHLIGHTS
APPLIED TO
296
colleges and universities in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, China, Ireland, and Scotland
CLASS OF 2021
241 SENIORS GRADUATED ON MAY 27, 2021 came to La Salle from and
84 elementary schools
65 zip codes and China
ENTER TO LEARN 75% of the Class of 2021 was accepted to one of the Top 50 Most Competitive Colleges/Universities*
9
84
Members of the National Honor Society
National Merit Finalists
8
National Merit
Commended Students
ACCEPTED TO
LEAVE TO SERVE
240
3 graduates will attend the US Air Force Academy
colleges and universities
1 graduate will attend the US Naval Academy
the District of Columbia,
3 graduates have earned full ROTC Scholarships
in 40 states, Canada, China, and Ireland
34 young men will play 11 sports at 27 colleges and universities
ENROLLED AT
99 colleges and universities
in 25 states, the District of Columbia, China, and Ireland
83% OF THE CLASS OF 2021 earned in excess of
54 are private institutions 20 of which are Catholic colleges or universities 5 are Pennsylvania State System
in documented scholarships and grants
3 are Pennsylvania state-related universities 1 is a community college
$41 million
of Higher Education public universities
* Barron's Most Competitive and US News & World Report Top 50: National, Liberal Arts, or Public Colleges/Universities
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P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
SENIOR AWARDS CEREMONY – CLASS OF 2021 M AY
2 4 ,
2 0 2 1
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HIGHLIGHTS
P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
B A C C A L A U R E AT E M A S S E S – C L A S S O F 2 0 2 1 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH DOYLESTOWN, PA M AY
2 5 ,
2 0 2 1
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HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES – CLASS OF 2021 M AY
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2 0 2 1
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HIGHLIGHTS
P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
G R A N D PA R E N T S ’ D AY J U N E
2 ,
2 0 2 1
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HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
D A V I D T. D I E H L ’ 5 5 S C H O L A R S H I P G O L F O U T I N G WHITEMARSH VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB LAFAYETTE HILL, PA J U N E
2 1 ,
2 0 2 1
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P H O T O
G A L L E R I E S
SENIOR PROM M AY
2 1 ,
2 0 2 1
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DEPARTMENTS
W E
W E L C O M E
A N D
R E M E M B E R
(BIRTHS AND DEATHS AS OF JUNE 25, 2021)
WE WELCOME
JAMES P. CATALINO ’56, grandfather of William Warrender ’06, Ryan Warrender ’08, James Catalino ’09, Shawn Warrender ’10, Christopher Catalino ’11, Colin McIntosh ’11, Michael Catalino ’13, Nicholas Catalino ’15, Ian McIntosh ’15, and Andrew Rakow ’24.
BRETT FOLEY ’00 and his wife, Ali, welcomed a daughter, Rowan Marie, on October 10, 2020. MARK D’ANGELO ’02 and his wife, Gretchen Schulz D’Angelo, welcomed a baby girl, Dylan Hope, on February 1, 2021.
BERNARD A. FLANNERY ’56 SAMUEL MARTIN HERB ’56
THOMAS LITTLE ’05 and his wife, Ashlyn, welcomed a son, Bennett Reed, on April 24, 2021.
ROBERT W. LYONS, MD ’56, son of the late William ’26.
ROBERT STOTT ’06 and his wife, Marie (Science Department and Director of Student Activities), welcomed a son, Bryson Anthony, on September 17, 2020.
EUGENE F. DIRE ’45 JAMES J. PHELAN ’47 WILLIAM C. SEIBERLICH ’47, grandfather of Jack ’19 and Connor ’22 Seiberlich. JAMES J. BELL ’48 PAUL A. MULLIN ’49, grandfather of Thomas ’12, Michael ’14, and Matthew ’25. MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM F. BURNS, USA (RET) ’50, brother of the late John ’52 and James ’55.
JOSEPH F. KILROY, father of Michael ’95.
FRANCIS J. DUVAL ’63
MARY KLING, mother of Theodore ’80, Neill ’81, and Bernard ’86.
EDMUND SWIACKI, JR. ’63 JOHN M. DALY, MD ’65
THOMAS E. CROWE, ESQ. ’70 VICTOR A.E. POSPISCHIL ’77 THOMAS J. CONNOR ’81, brother of James ’79. SEAN JOSEPH MAHONEY ’17
HOWARD BAILIN, grandfather of Arthur Bailin ’13. DOLORES BARANOWSKI, grandmother of Thomas Winning ’06 and Brian Winning ’09.
WILLIAM J. QUIGLEY ’50
PAUL BENYOVSZKY, father of Paul ’78 and Christopher ’82; grandfather of Paul ’08 and Nicholas ’12.
FRANCIS X. DONOHOE ’51, father of Patrick ’78 and Michael ’79
JUDITH A. CIRELLI, mother of Charles T. Cirelli (Dean of Student Life).
WILLIAM T. MULLIGAN, SR. ’51
JOSEPH C. CIRELLI, father of Charles T. Cirelli (Dean of Student Life).
REV. MSGR. JOSEPH W. MURRAY ’51, son of Ignatius ’18; brother of Rev. Msgr. Ignatius Murray ’48, John Murray, MD ’49, and Rev. Msgr. Thomas Murray ’59; uncle of the late John P. Murray ’76. ROBERT R. BRAY, JR. ’52 JAMES J. CANALICHIO ’55 JOSEPH W. RUMER III ’55 JAMES J. WARD ’55, brother of William ’56.
HARRY HARTMAN, father of Christopher ’88.
RAYMOND L. WEINMANN ’59
MICHAEL P. FRIEDBERGER, PHD ’65
WE REMEMBER
MARY GUMROT, mother of Michael ’61 and Robert ’66.
LEO C. RODGERS ’58
STANLEY B. LOREK ’63
BRIDGET WHELAN (Mathematics Department) and her husband, Jack, welcomed a daughter, Scarlett Rae, on May 6, 2021.
DAVID T. GRAY, SR., father of David, Jr. ’19 and Dermot ’25; son-in-law of Edward J. Murphy ’51.
MARY K. KELLY, grandmother of Thomas ’00, Robert ’03 and Colin ’06 Miller; Robert ’09, Timothy ’17, and Daniel ’18 Kelly.
RICHARD L. HEPP ’57
D’JUAN LYONS (World Language Department) and his wife, Kerrin, welcomed a daughter, Consuelo “Sway” Elaine Lyons, on June 11, 2021.
CAROLYN J. GOZDECKI, mother of Mrs. Nancy Matthews; mother-in-law of William Matthews ’86; grandmother of William ’16, Christopher ’19, Zachary ’22, and Charles ’25.
CHARLES T. CONROY, grandfather of Thomas ’15 and Nicholas ’17 Conroy. PATRICK EELLS, nephew of Brother Francis Xavier Eells, FSC. JOHN M. ELLIOTT, father of Kyle Elliott ’01. TERESA ENGLER, mother of Past Mothers Club President Mary Jean Carabello; mother-inlaw of Christopher Carabello ’82; grandmother of A.J. Carabello ’20.
ATTRACTA (MISSY) MEENAN, mother of Patrick ’15 and Shane ’17; aunt of Ryan ’10, Christopher ’11, Timothy ’14, Conor ’17. and Brendan ’20 McElroy. FRANCIS J. MCCANN, JR., father of Francis, III ’93, Peter ’97, the late Terrence ’03, and Brendan ’05; grandfather of Francis IV ’24. CLARENCE MCGOWAN, father of Daniel McGowan (Vice President of Institutional Advancement) BROTHER EMERY C. MOLLENHAUER, FSC (Former Trustee) WALTER F. NORRIS, SR., father of Walter, Jr. ’80 and Brian ’82; grandfather of Spencer Norris ’17, Owen Norris ’21, Benjamin Herron ’21, and Sean Herron ’22; father-in-law of Drew Sweeney ’82. FRANK D. O’DONNELL, father of Jeffrey ’78 and Craig ’80; grandfather of Kevin ’13. FRANCES “JANE” PAUL, mother of late former Trustee John Paul; mother of Joseph Paul ’76 and Thomas Paul ’78; grandmother of J. Christopher Paul ’94, Jeffrey Paul ’01, and Daniel Paul ’09. MICHAEL P. ROCKWOOD, father of Michael ’04. EILEEN ROWLEY, wife of the late Edward ’49; mother of E. Mark Rowley ’82. KAREN MARIE SABATINI, mother of Kevin Nolan ’22; wife of Peter Nolan ’78. JOHN J. SKARBEK, father of Jason ’88.
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HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2021 THE TRADITION CONTINUES
SEPTEMBER 10 – 12 F R I D AY SEPTEMBER 10
S AT R D AY SEPTEMBER 11
Y O UNG A LUM NI G OLF OUT ING
Alumni Basketball Game (Gym) Alumni Lacrosse Game
HA LL OF AT H LET IC S INDUC T ION H
Varsity Baseball Blue vs. Gold Intersquad Game (Ward Field)
ATHLETES
Varsity Soccer vs. Christian Brothers Academy
Joseph C. Meade ’97 Basketball
Game Day Live (with Bob Long ’09 and Special Guests)
Garrett A. Miller ’95 Rowing/Crew
Varsity Football vs. Imhotep Charter (Springfield High School)
Donald M. Quinn, Jr. ’94 Ice Hockey and Baseball
Pre-Game 9/11 Tribute
Gavin Muir, MD ’87 Soccer, Wrestling, and Rowing/Crew
Halftime recognition of the athletes, coaches, and teams inducted into the Hall of Athletics.
H TEAMS
Game Streamed Live on WEXPtv
Football 2009-2010
Commemorative Gear For Sale
Tennis 1977-1978
H
Family BBQ
LEADERSHIP
Happy Hour at MaGerk’s Pub (Fort Washington, PA)
William L. “Bill” Leahy III Lacrosse
S U N D AY SEPTEMBER 12 Alumni Row (Boathouse No. 4)
Explorer La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 Change Service Requested
Saturday, November 6, 2021 www.lschs.org/auction
