Matters
MARIAN A N EWSLETTER
FOR
M ARIAN C ATHOLIC A LUMNI , PARENTS AND F RIENDS . . . B ECAUSE M ARIAN C ATHOLIC R EALLY D OES M ATTER SPRING 2007
‘SR. TERESA'S TRAVELS’ REACH OUT TO CAMPUSES
Sr. Teresa’s Travels included Millikin University, where she met Elizabeth Lynch ’06, Lori O’Connor ’05, Laurie Prohaska ’05 and Lauren Weber ’03
From gardening, to reading, to service for parish and beyond, the Marian Catholic faculty is involved with many interesting hobbies. Director of Campus Ministry Sr. Teresa Marron, O.P. has initiated an interesting “hobby” that's both enlightening and serves as a reconnection with Marian alumni. While many Marian Catholic alums would love to experience college life again, Sr. Teresa is actually doing it with “Sr. Teresa's Travels.” A full year in the making, Sr. Teresa began her college visits to see alumni in September. In just a few months of the first semester, she visited 13 colleges and met with 115 current college students and four college graduates from Marian. “It is with great honor and privilege that God planted this seed in me on a beautiful fall day as I was driving along Interstate 72 watching the farmers harvest the corn and beans,” Sr. Teresa explained. “A student had emailed me two days before I was going to be in St. Louis and begged me to stop by for a cup of coffee and to chat.” Conflict prevented the meeting from occurring, but the seed had been planted for "harvest." “My first thought was to keep in touch with students who might have a vocation because I know many students who would be
TC2L Takes Shape!
UPDATE
Justin Thirstrup ’08 from Marian Megaphone, January 2007
This month, I again sat down with school president Sr. Mary Paul to get an update on the status of The Courage to Lead Capital Campaign. The past month has been another busy one for the campaign, and exciting things continue to happen every day. Work continues on the Marian Catholic High School Leadership Center, and current plans still call for the Center to be completed some time around Easter, with the Center being used by the end of this year for a career mentor program and other Leadership Center programs. From the outside, the center almost looks complete, but take a look inside, and a whole new flurry of activity is taking place. Work is now being done to complete the interior of the building, and, so far, everything looks great. Much gratitude is owed to the talented construction workers and crew who have been working tirelessly to make such tremendous progress during these cold winter months. In addition to the progress of the Leadership Center, Continued on page 2
Continued on page 3
5th Marian Madness NCAA event set for March 31
Caitlin Toner, Dave Mattio ’66, Andy DeLaurentis ’95, Kerri Evans ’96 and Cristin Evans ’99 enjoy the camaraderie at Marian Madness.
Tim Swanson ’86 checks in with alumni parent Diana Rhode at the fourth Marian Madness.
Marian Catholic High School will host the fifth annual “Marian Madness” NCAA Final Four celebration on Saturday, March 31. The event will feature both men’s NCAA national semifinals from the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on three huge 12-foot screens. “It’s a very good opportunity to get together with some fellow alumni and friends while watching some great basketball games,” according to Ed Ziltz ’80. “For the price, it’s well worth it for the fun and to see so many people. There will also be some outstanding food, great silent auction items and an opportunity for everyone to go home a winner.” Tickets for the event are only $25 and feature unlimited food and drink, as well as loads of fun. Marian Madness is co-sponsored by the Alumni Association, Athletic Boosters and Marian Athletics, and will also feature games of chance and several exciting silent auction items. The fund-raising and friend-raising event will benefit Marian Athletics. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. “It’s a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family at a fun, local event while supporting Marian, and who doesn’t watch the Final Four,” explains committee member, Nancy Lynch Virene ’81. Marian Madness can’t ensure the local flavor of a University of Illinois semifinal victory this year, but it can guarantee a great evening of fun and excitement for all. For more information, please contact Carol Burke Swanson ’81 at 708-756-9775 or cswanson@marianchs.com.
center. However, as Sr. Paul told me in our interview, it is important to note that none of these decisions are final and that things can change very quickly. It is nice to have plans, but plans mean nothing until they are put into action, and what will drive this action is funding. At this moment in time, however, the Leadership Center still remains the number one priority on the Campaign list, so there will be much time to plan further projects once this first one is completed. With that in mind, it is clear that only good things remain in store for Marian Catholic High School, thanks to The Courage to Lead Capital Campaign.
TC2L UPDATE Continued from page 1
$4 million in 14 Months! How did we get there?
The TC2L Leadership curriculum team discusses plans, including Director Bobby Lambert and Program Faculty Committee members Mary Mesterharm, Tony Waznonis ’98, Faye Predny, Linda Savick, Jennifer Klopp and Kerri Evans ’96.
The optimism and enthusiasm of the Marian Catholic community brought the Campaign to an aggressive milestone towards the preliminary goal of $5.25 million.
other aspects of the TC2L Campaign are starting to fall into place. A new emphasis on endowed scholarships has begun, and this is a part of the Campaign we will be hearing more and more about as we continue to move through the upcoming months. In addition, a copyright for the Leadership Program has come through Washington, D.C., making the program an official and true part of the Marian experience. Now, future Marian students have another positive to look forward to when they walk through the doors on their first day of classes—they will be leaving in four years better prepared to lead in the world than when they first had entered. This is a truly amazing and novel idea, and the gratitude here is owed to the members of the Advisory Board who came up with such an ingenious idea.
Generous hosts and ambassadors among our TC2L leadership helped spread The Courage to Lead vision. Eight constituenthosted small group gatherings and our campaign-hosted events provided gracious settings to explore the Campaign’s priorities with our Marian Catholic family and friends. Reaching out in the months ahead to the full school community is essential to fully fund all of the TC2L priorities. The Courage to Lead October 2006 general mailing extended an invitation to invest to the entire Marian Catholic community. General commitment options include a mailed remittance, the MCHS website which features a TC2L link to process online pledges, and phone follow-up in January and February to selected constituents.
In addition to the Leadership Center, one of the goals of the TC2L Campaign is to promote further campus growth. For example, with the Leadership Center replacing the old cafeteria and kitchen, many students are curious as to what will happen to this space and how it will be used. At the current moment in time, the kitchen area is still in question, but it appears that the cafeteria will become the new study hall area. If this idea pans out, this plan could create space where the study halls are now for other campus growth projects. These projects that are still “up in the air” include a new, expanded weight room and a broadcasting
To date, the Marian Catholic Campaign Team personally visited over 250 individuals, including long distance contacts. To date over $4.3 million has been pledged. Local and national TC2L outreach will continue as it is critical for TC2L to reach its goal. For further information see www.marianchs.com/TC2L/investment
2
‘SR. TERESA'S TRAVELS’ REACH OUT TO CAMPUSES wonderful sisters, brothers or priests,” Sr. Teresa explained. “I also want to keep other students connected so they still feel a part of Marian by listening to them if they are struggling with the usual college problems and to hear about all the activities in which they're involved. “I want to bring a little bit of home to them and hopefully all of this will keep them coming back to Marian.” With strong added encouragement from several Dominican Sisters, Sr. Teresa set out to put her plan into action as the school year began. “One year later, almost to the day, I At Notre Dame, Sr. Teresa (middle) visited with Steve Tortorello ’04, Erin Dolan ’06, Britney Johnson ’06 and Ali DeJong ’03. was walking around St. Louis University with the student who begged me to stop and have that cup of coffee with her, chatting about her involvement with campus ministry, her boyfriend and how she loves being in the nursing program.” The visits were under way, and the personalities were inspiring and had great stories to tell. Those four college graduates? They possess quite charismatic resumes, including Joe Urschel ’70, Executive Director of the Newseum in Washington; Nick Naughton ’00, who works at the White House as a Presidential Analyst and gave Sr. Teresa The St. Mary’s/Notre Dame reunion included Christina Hill ’03, a tour of the West Wing; Shubha Christina Golubski ’05, Angie Ellison ’03, Kevin Marvinac ’05 Sastry ’96, a lawyer for immigration in and Sr. Teresa. Washington; and Leanne Lessard ’01, who will graduate with a Master's in Latin American Studies in May and would like to volunteer in Peru for a year, perhaps with Dominican Sisters. While a visit from Sr. Teresa brings a little bit of “home” to the college students, the traveling has been enlightening and rewarding for Sr. Teresa as well. “It has been inspiring to see so many of the students carrying on the mission of Marian Catholic by putting their faith in action through the leadership activities in which they are involved,” Sr. Teresa explained. “Many of them are majoring in areas that will make a difference in the lives of other people. “It is so refreshing to visit graduates and spend time with them. I treat them to a meal or an afternoon snack during the visit and before I leave I give them a medal of St. Dominic to remind them of their roots. It is a very rewarding experience for me to help keep our graduates connected to the Marian Catholic Family.” The first semester saw visits to Loyola, University of Illinois, Milliken, Missouri-Columbia, St. Louis University, Illinois Wesleyan, Illinois State, Yale, Notre Dame, St. Mary’s College, Georgetown, George Washington University and Howard University. Others on the short-term horizon include: University of Missouri, St. Ambrose, Northern Illinois University, Purdue, Indiana University, Rose-Hulman, Eastern Illinois and Creighton. Sr. Teresa looks forward to continuing her college travels well into the future. “God did have a plan and I am honored to be a part of it,” Sr. Teresa said. “I see hope for the future as I visit these students and see the good they are doing. I am grateful for having the opportunity to encourage them and give them Marian’s blessing and let them know they always have a home with us. My last words to the students before I leave them are ‘keep the Kairos spirit alive.’ ” Note to alumni in college: If you didn’t hear from Sr. Teresa, it is because she could not find your email or you didn’t check your school email address. If you would like to contact Sr. Teresa, you can email her at srteresa@marianchs.com 3
UPCOMING EVENTS MARIAN MADNESS NCAA FINAL FOUR GAMES Saturday, March 31, 2007 Doors Open 4:30 p.m. Marian Catholic High School East Gymnasium $25 Admission includes Unlimited food, drinks and fun. If you have any questions please contact the Alumni Office. CAREER DAY Monday, May 7, 2006 Marian Catholic High School If you are interested in talking to Marian students about your career, please fill out form on back page or contact the Alumni Office. 2007 REUNIONS The following classes will be celebrating their reunions in 2007: 1962 1967 1972 1977 1982 1987 1997 2002
- September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007 - September 28 & 29, 2007
If you are interested in helping plan your reunion, please contact the Alumni Office (708-756-9770) or via email, gyoung@marianchs.com.
MARIAN CATHOLIC
If you would like to serve on a Planning Committee for our
50th Anniversary please contact Carol Burke Swanson ’81 at (708)756-9775 or cswanson@marianchs.com
MURZYN, RODEY AMONG HONOREES
ADVISORY BOARD PROFILE
Michelle Feldner Lancaster ’77 Barb Murzyn, a University of Chicago Outstanding Teacher honoree, explains a scientific concept to her class.
Social Studies teacher Bob Rodey is a finalist in the Chicago area for the prestigious Golden Apple Award.
Science teacher Barb Murzyn was honored in November by the University of Chicago with an "Outstanding Teacher Award," through the recommendation of a former Marian student. The award honors teachers who have opened new vistas and realms of discovery, challenged students intellectually for the first time, or channeled their private interests into productive paths for intellectual growth. A graduate of Illinois State in both Medical Technology and Biology Education with a Masters from Purdue in Instructional Design, Murzyn began teaching at Marian in 1993. In 1993, she had her first daughter, Elizabeth, who will join the Class of 2011 next fall and her second daughter, Sarah will join the class of 2014. “I’m excited that my oldest daughter will be a student at Marian in the fall and will get to experience the MCHS environment,” Murzyn said. Murzyn’s labs stay current: recently in her AP Biology class, students genetically engineered E-coli bacteria and made them fluorescent green by incorporating jellyfish DNA. “My experience in the hospital laboratories has added to my teaching,” Murzyn explained. “I am able to draw from it when teaching AP Biology or Chemistry. I love to add new labs and experiences that will get students excited about chemistry.” Social Studies teacher Bob Rodey is one of 32 Chicago-area finalists for the 2007 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching for grades 9 through 12. In his 14th year at Marian following a career at Rich East, student favorite Rodey currently teaches American Government, American Studies and AP U.S. History. A total of 941 teachers from the Chicago area were nominated for the award and ten Gold Apple winners will be announced in mid-March. Winners will be honored at an awards ceremony on May 12 at the Hyatt Recency Chicago, which subsequently will be aired as a one-hour prime-time special on WTTW/Channel 11. Each of the 10 Golden Apple Award winners will receive a tuition-free fall-term sabbatical at Northwestern University, a personal computer, $3,000 and membership in the Golden Apple Academy, which has inducted 210 expert teachers in the past 21 years to ensure that all children have the excellent teachers they deserve. Social Studies teacher and 14-year men’s golf coach Jim Mendenhall was named East Suburban Catholic Conference Coach of the Year by his peers. Mendenhall led the Spartans to an 11th place state finish, as well as an 11-1 overall record and second place finishes in the ESCC, IHSA Regional and Sectional.
7th Graders Invited to
Cinderella SHADOW SPRING MUSICAL
Contact Sr. Dorothy Marie by May 4, 2007 708-756-9762
Friday, March 30 ~ 7:30pm Saturday, March 31 ~ 7:30pm Sunday, April 1 ~ 2:00pm
4
START OF TERM: Fall 2004 FAMILY: Husband Hilary; daughters Jessica ’06 and Shannon ’06 both attend Illinois Wesleyan University; and son Neil ’10. Parents, Dr. Ronald & Phyllis Feldner of Schererville sent all 5 of their children to Marian Catholic: Dr. Mark Feldner ’75 of Schererville and his wife have 2 grown children and 2 children planning on attending Marian; Dr. Barry Feldner ’80 of Kearney, Nebraska and his wife have 6 children; Mona Feldner Bajzek ’81 of Tinley Park and her husband have 5 children; and Carla Feldner Schwartz ’84 of Naperville and her husband have 2 children. OCCUPATION: Dentist, New Lenox Dental Group COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member of the American, Illinois, Will County, and Cook County Dental Associations, past coach of youth soccer and softball, assistant for Marian's fencing club, Appalachia the last two years, traveled to Poland for Snowball, Snowball staff member this year. HOBBIES: Family, running, tennis, cooking, piano, completed the Chicago Marathon with my daughters, plan to complete a triathlon with all three of my children this summer! VISION FOR MCHS FUTURE: Marian Catholic's future is EXCITING! Academic accolades validate the outstanding college-prep program, activities are abundant, travel opportunities are plentiful, and the Christian atmosphere is safe and energized. The Leadership Center is nearing completion which will support the school's dedication to nurturing leadership ability and strength of character in each and every one of its students. Marian Catholic has accomplished so much in its young lifetime of almost 50 years - there's no limit for what the vibrant community of students, families, faculty, and staff will accomplish down the road! God has blessed, and may He continue to bless Marian!
Phonathon: It’s All About Good People Thank you very much to all who answered the call during our 2007 Phonathon to pledge over $54,000 to the Annual Fund. This amount does not include “your decisions,” those who may yet participate but who are not committed to a pledge amount. These “your decisions” are being received daily (last year totaling over $42,000). Funds raised this year for the Annual Fund will be targeted for updating the Theatre and Art Room and wireless technology and may be restricted by donors. Thanks to you, we will surpass our Phonathon ’07 goal of $75,500. Last year’s goal of $75,000 was surpassed with a collection of $88,000…we anticipate the same or more this year. In addition, on the last night of our Student Phonathon, precipitated by a call made by one of our students, a gift of $100,000 was pledged by an alum to The Courage to Lead Capital Campaign! Those families we were unable to reach and those not available when our phonathoners called still have an opportunity to participate. Please send your check noting it for the Annual Fund Phonathon and payable to Marian Catholic High School (fully tax deductible). You can send it with your student or mail it to the attention of the Advancement Office. If you wish to pay over twelve months or charge your gift to Visa, Discover, or Master Card, please call Phonathon Coordinator, Peg Massucci (708.756.9427). Our returning volunteer Co-Chairs, alumni parent Sue Dawson, and current parent, Nancy Hathhorn, are to be commended for being so incredibly generous with their time, as well as sophomore Kaitlyn Hathhorn for the time she gave coordinating the processing at all four sessions of the Parent Phonathon. The Phonatahon Committee, parent and student callers and processors made it possible to contact over 8,500 members of the MCHS community, more than 900 of whom pledged with hundreds of “your decisions” being made. Parents called current and alumni parents and students called alumni raising over $54,000 over seven calling sessions. Without each and every one of you, we could not have reached our goal. It should be noted that many of our volunteers are alumni parents who return year after year long after their students have graduated. Thanks also to Carlo Gozzi ’00 and Cassandra Gray ’00 who came back to help at the Student Phonathon. Special thanks Rita Beukema who helped so much “behind the scenes” and to Jenn Purcell ’02 who helped at all three student calling sessions and to Kaitlyn Hathhorn ’09, T.J. Purcell ’10 and Alex Staniec ’10 who helped at parent and student calling sessions.
Phonathon Coordinator Peg Massucci gives a “high five” to senior Melissa Harmon after gaining another pledge.
Jenn Purcell ’02, freshman Val Finnin and sophomores Meaghan Dee and Kate Kohler light up the lines during another successful Phonathon.
Sophomores Jackie Tuskan and Julie Rzeszutko ring the bell to celebrate a conversation with Mark Weishaar ’76.
Deepest gratitude goes to the following Phonathon volunteers: ’07 Parent/Alumni Parent Committee Mrs. Mary Pat Bertrand Mrs. Shari Bruno Mrs. Kathy Caffarelli Mr. & Mrs. Larry Campbell Mrs. Kathy Clark Mrs. Millicent Collier Mrs. Joni Crosetto Mr. Mark DiSanto Mrs. Julie Doane Mrs. Kathleen Doyle Mrs. Ruth Finlayson Mrs. Cindy Grabiec Mrs. Chris Hutter Mrs. Denise Johnson Mrs. Yulanda Johnson Mrs. Susan Kaczmarczyk Mr. Ray Kowalczyk Mr. & Mrs. Jim Kowalkowski Mrs. Karen Kuehr Mrs. Maureen Marthaler Mr. Tom Marvinac Mrs. Joanne Middleton Mrs. Mary Mundee Mrs. Deborah Orr Mrs. Lynn Ostrowski Dr. & Mrs. Nick Pallotto Mrs. Theresa Phillips Mrs. Mary Lu Plonczynski Mrs. Mindy Purcell Mrs. Sharon Stillman Mrs. Sharon Sypole
Mr. George Toth Mrs. Shirley Uhll Mrs. Mary Walter Mr. & Mrs. Dave Watson Mrs. Judy Wohadlo Mrs. Marielle Zagone Mrs. Karen Zerante ’07 Parent/Alumni Parent Callers Mrs. Karen Banach Mr. & Mrs. Paul Beck Mr. & Mrs. Chet Bojarski Mr. & Mrs. David Bond Mrs. Vanessa Bradley Mrs. Karen Brodzik Mrs. Maureen Burns Mrs. Terri Bustos Mrs. Kathy Caffarelli Mr. and Mrs. Larry Campbell Mrs. Sarah Ceragioli Mr. John Ciszewski Mrs. Janet Coleman Mrs. Millicent Collier Mrs. Pia Conte Mrs. Kevet Davis Mrs. Jennifer Denton Mr. Mark DiSanto Mrs. Michaelene Edgeworth Mrs. Marueen Furjanic Mrs. Olivia Garcia-Cioffi Mrs. Denise Gurley Ms. Nancy Hayes Mrs. Lynn Hilger
Ms. Carrie Jackson Mrs. Jessica Jackson Mr. and Mrs. Keith Jackson Mrs. Denise Johnson Mrs. Hope Johnson Mrs. Pat Jonikaitis Mrs. Susan Kaczmarczyk Mrs. Debra Kobel Mr. & Mrs. Richard Kordys Mr. Raymond Kowalczyk Mrs. Beverly Kowalkowski Mr. Dick Linde Mrs. Judy Longo Mr. Jerry Luehrs Mrs. Mary Lou Markert Mrs. Maureen Marthaler Mr. & Mrs. Tom Marvinac Mrs. Janet McMahon Mrs. Katrina Mendez Mrs. Katherine Michels Mrs. Joanne Middleton Ms. Camille Msall Mrs. Kathy Nickel Mrs. Patricia Ogbeide-Ihama Mrs. Deborah Orr Mrs. Lynn Ostrowski Dr. & Mrs. Nick Pallotto Mrs. Anne Palmisano Mrs. Paulette Paquette Mr. & Mrs. Steve Payne Ms. Theresa Phillips Mrs. Reena Pietraszak
5
Mrs. Mary Lu Plonczynski Mrs. Sarah Policchio Mrs. Mindy Purcell Mrs. Ida Reid Mrs. Pam Roe Mrs. Carolyn Rudolf Ms. Alisha Salley Mrs.Barbra Schumann Mr. & Mrs. John Semik Mr. & Mrs. Alphonso Slaughter Mr. Robert Staniec Mrs. Barbara Steinbach Mrs. Sharon Stillman Mrs. Debra Surrett Mrs. Mary Sweeney Mr. & Mrs. Michael Sypole Ms. Ella Tambrini Mr. George Toth Mrs. Shirley Uhll Mrs. Colleen VanderHye Mrs. Karen Walsh Mrs. Mary Walter Mrs. Marilyn Ward Mrs. Polly Weiss Mrs. Beth Wilson Mrs. Judy Wohadlo Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Zagone Mrs. Karen Zerante ’07 Alumni Callers Carlo Gozzi ’00 Cassandra Gray ‘00 Jenn Purcell ’02
Akey ’97 a top eight ‘young fashion designer’ Ed Miniat, Inc. represents one of the first large advertising sponsors in Marian’s West Gym.
Marian Facilities Offer Ad Signage
Jessie Krumb ’07 wore a Thread design to this year’s Turnabout Dance in February.
In her nearly ten years since graduating from Marian, 1997 grad Melissa Akey has become one of the eight young fashion designers in the world to watch, according to Glamour magazine. With degrees in graphic design and photography from the University of Michigan, Melissa landed her first job at Barney’s New York where she worked closely with stylists in the movie and music industries within the Image Studio division. She then joined Thread in New York as a sales manager and assisted in both design and marketing. Melissa was instrumental in opening a Chicago store location in 2003. An original partner left the organization which opened the door for Akey to assume an ownership role as well. Thread designs elegant bridesmaid dresses, and more recently has introduced the Thread social line which is geared towards the New York girl on the go who needs a look that will take her from day to night, no matter what the occasion. For the Spring/Summer 2007 season, Melissa and her business partner, Beth Blake, have designed dresses using inspiration derived from the multi-cultural graffiti art found in New York City. High contrast graphic prints on delicate chiffon are often paired with crocheted, rope intertwined lace and punctuated with blasts of color on the mostly black and white palette. The partners will be in Paris in late February to showcase their designs for the European market. Visit www.threaddesign.com to view the complete line of bridesmaid dresses and, according to Melissa, the Thread social collection website will be available soon.
There’s something new in the West Gym at Marian Catholic High School! If you have attended a recent home basketball game or any other function in the West Gym you will have seen a new “sign of support” mounted on the wall above the home bleachers. The sign with it’s simple “Go Spartans” message and logo of Ed Miniat, Inc., the sign sponsor, is the first of hopefully many that will offer visual support for Spartan teams and financial support for the Athletic Department. The program was suggested by Marian parent Mike Caruso and approved by the MCHS Advisory Board. Under this sponsorship program signs may be contracted for and placed in the West Gym, Spartan Football Stadium, the Brzozowski Baseball Field and the softball field. Signs can be sponsored for one to three years with significant discounts for terms of more than one year. Signs contracted now will be placed in the specified venue, but the contractual term will not begin until July of 2007 as a bonus for early participation in this new program. All proceeds will be used for the MCHS Athletic Department. For additional information and to order a sponsorship sign please contact Pete Ruhl in the Advancement Department (708-756-9403).
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Metro Alumni & Friends The Metropolitan Club ~ Sears Tower ~ Chicago
June 7, 2007
•
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Alums, Alumni Parents, Current Parents and Marian Friends Invited
8TH GRADE SCHOLARS Each year, Marian Catholic ranks among the best in Chicago’s Southland for AP Scholars, National Merit recognition and Illinois State Scholars. With 21 area eighth graders earning academic scholarships based on their STS/HSPT Entrance exam scores, the future looks very bright as well. Adam King (Lansing, IL) earned a $5,000 Marian Catholic Scholarship for his test score (in the 99th percentile). Meanwhile, seven others earned $2,500, including Brandon Downs (Chicago Heights, IL), Patricia O’Hara (Thornton, IL), Emily Arvia (Thornton, IL), Robert Fink (South Holland, IL), Nathan Hart (Homewood, IL), Miloni Hernandez (Steger, IL) and Nicholas Connolly (Flossmoor, IL). More than 650 students tested at Marian in January with the school accepting 430 for the Class of 2011. Seven students received $1,000: Michael Basile (Chicago Heights, IL), Judith Howard (Matteson, IL), Megan Murday (Frankfort, IL), Uzoma Nwabara (Olympia Fields, IL), Colin Parsons (Park Forest, IL), Brian Rybarczyk (St. John, IN) and Madeline Tolish (Flossmoor, IL), while those earning $500 included Collin Clarke (Ford Heights, IL), Alexander Jackson (Dolton, IL), Conor Keane (Oak Forest, IL), Kathleen McMillen (Hobart, IN), Michael Spear (Mokena, IL) and Anthony Sulli (Lansing, IL).
6
GIRLS BASKETBALL ELITE 8 - AGAIN! Sweet 16 is fantastic for any high school student, but the Elite 8 is even better. Neither concept seems to get old. That’s certainly the philosophy of the Marian Catholic women’s basketball team. With a 75-60 victory over ESCC rival Marist in the St. Xavier Supersectional, the Spartans advanced to the IHSA Class AA Elite 8 for the fifth time in six seasons. The win over Marist proved to be the rubber game in the 2006-07 series, as the teams had split earlier meetings. Marian is the lone school to advance to the IHSA state quarterfinals in five of the last six years. “It’s been a dream of mine ever since I was little to play for Marian,” explained senior Caitlin Pauley, who has been with the varsity for all four campaigns. “Out of my four years, the team has advanced to the supers three times. It’s been an amazing experience and I couldn’t have asked for a better high school career. We’re very excited and can’t wait for the chance to go downstate.” A regular in Illinois’ women’s basketball elite landscape, Marian visited the sectional finals for a seventh straight year and improved its dominance against the traditional SICA/ Southwest Suburban rivals to 57 victories in the last 58 tests. Things continued to roll throughout the year for one of the state’s premier programs, as the Spartans posted an 8-1 mark to capture a tie for their third ESCC crown in six years. The regular season also included a fourth straight Maine West Tipoff Classic crown and a sixth consecutive visit to the Hillcrest Holiday Classic championship game.
Marian gained more all-ESCC representatives than any other team (four), including senior Sarah Pillon, juniors Suzanne Grossnickle and Patrice King, and sophomore Kaila Turner. Pillon and King also earned recognition on Star Newspapers’ All-Area team. Youth was served this year for Marian Catholic’s wrestlers, as the Spartans qualified a freshman, sophomore and junior for the IHSA Class AA state tournament, the most Marian entries to qualify for state since 2002-03.
The Marian women’s basketball team honors God and America before another victory in a 27-win campaign leading to the elite 8.
Freshman Matt O’Boyle (103 pounds) followed up an ESCC and IHSA Regional championship by winning one of his state tournament matches to finish the year with a 35-7 record. Sophomore Mark Marianovich was defeated in his only state tourney match at 119 pounds, but gained ESCC, Regional and Sectional titles to his credit on the way to a sterling 36-2 record. Another regional champion, junior Kyle Wright notched a pin in one of two state tournament matches and concluded the year with a 37-6 mark. In just its second competitive season, the Marian co-ed fencing program continues to gain interest and make impressive progress. Sophomore fencer Mary (Maggie) Halpin captured third-place for her age class in tryouts at Northwestern University and qualified for the Junior Olympics competition in Denver, Colo. in February.
Junior Alysha Ferry drives to the basket during the Spartans’ ESCC championship season in women’s basketball.
Halpin earned 132nd place in the nation in Denver, earning a victory over a Central California foe and advancing out of pool play into the Direct Elimination Round.
St. Xavier football coach Mike Feminis ’86 displays his Schutt Sports NAIA Coach of the Year Award. Feminis guided his Cougar squad to the national semifinals and a playoff upset of defending national champion Carroll College. Marian freshman Matt O’Boyle already has an IHSA state tournament win under his belt.
Spartan sophomore Mark Marianovich earned ESCC, regional and sectional wrestling titles.
7
Fine Arts Presents Command Performance IV Mark Your Calendars – Thursday, April 19 at 7:00 p.m. Get your tickets now for best seats at The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University!
Showcasing some of the top Fine Arts programs in the State of Illinois, Marian Catholic will present Command Performance IV: A Celebration of the Arts. Tied to Marian’s The Courage to Lead Capital Campaign and Leadership Training Program, Command Performance IV is a celebration of talent, beauty and discipline that will feature the Marian Symphonic Band, vocal and instrumental ensembles and forensic performances. A visual arts display and auction will also be a part of the experience. This evening is a great opportunity for the community at large to experience our young performers and artists in the outstanding professional theatrical setting. • Main floor and limited mezzanine tickets $25 each; balcony $15 per ticket. Sorry, no senior or child discounts. • Tickets available for purchase at Marian Catholic beginning February 20 through March 16 by calling 708-755-6579. • Beginning March 20, 2007, all tickets available for purchase ONLY through the box office at The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University. For phone or mail requests, The Center will charge $6 per order (not per ticket). Please call The Center (708.235.2222).
FORENSICS The Forensics Team captured 12 of 13 first place awards at regionals and will be featured at Command Performance IV.
Marian Forensics, including junior, Courtney Cooper performs for classes as a tuneup for an eventual eighth-place finish at IHSA state.
“
Sophomore Chris Skurka was one of six Marian entries to qualify for state en route to an eighth place team finish.
By winning a second consecutive regional, we are blazing down the path of success as a finale to this year’s highly successful speech season.
”
Michelle Pritchett ’07 (State Champion in Broadcasting)
BAND State of the Art Champions yet again, the Symphonic Band will be featured for the fourth time in Command Performance IV on April 19.
“
I enjoy my exposure to different kinds of music, various composers from different eras and the preparation for life which the Symphonic Band has afforded me.
”
MCHS percussionist Chris Chaisson ’07
Seniors Ryan Reid and Alison DeLuca perform during a recent band concert.
MARIAN BAND WELCOMES CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FOR SCHOOL WORKSHOP (Left) Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Chris Martin (CSO principal) with trumpet explains technique to Marian Band members. (Below) Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Jennifer Gunn critiques junior, Erica Collins.
In a continuing process of Marian Catholic High School’s The Courage to Lead (TC2L) Initiative, the nationally known Marian Catholic Band welcomed one of the world’s finest orchestras, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, for a workshop with students on Tuesday, January 16, 2007. The visit extends Marian’s new copyrighted leadership program, which will be based in the $3.5 million TC2L Leadership Center to be completed this spring. The visit also serves as some of the beginning preparation for the Marian Band’s appearance in the 2007 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York. CSO musicians worked with Marian band members in four lecture/ demonstration groups. The instrumental clinics were sponsored by the Sage Foundation. Assistant Director of Bands Bobby Lambert, hopes to continue the relationship from a leadership standpoint. Lambert also serves as a catalyst in Marian’s TC2L Leadership program. “The Chicago Symphony is one of the premiere music organizations in America,” Lambert said. “Their visit solidified to our students the idea that great people make great musicians. We stress the value of hard work and kindness. These CSO musicians could not have embodied that vision more.”
8
Art IV senior Nicole Zack admires some of her finished works. Senior Ryan Reid, juniors Ashley Sypole and Jim Slawnikowski, sing during the Christmas Madrigal Dinner.
Art V senior Maribeth Hudzik displays some of her work and talents.
Junior, Tim Blewitt performs at the annual Madrigal Dinner, a very popular holiday event.
ART
CHORAL
“
To me art is not just a hobby, but a way of life, a deep and personal look into the soul of an artist.
The Madrigal Singers will perform for the fist time at Command Performance IV.
”
Maribeth Hudzik ’07
“
Everyday is like entering your own stage. With all the time and effort we spend to create such beautiful pieces, and the joy we can bring to the crowd, not only shows but perfectly displays the song that is Marian Catholic Chorus.
”
James Slawnikowski ’08
THESPIAN / STAGE TECHS New lighting for the Theatre is one of the Command Performance IV goals.
“
Being a part of the MCHS Theatre Department and Stage Techs isn’t just about acting on stage or building a set; it’s about building family.
”
Mary Jones ’09 Marian Stage Techs, headed by Hall of Famer Bernie Jablonski, own a long-standing tradition of making Marian productions successful.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR The Seventeenth Annual Marian Catholic
ENDOWMENT GOLF CLASSIC will be held on
Monday, August 13, 2007 at Idlewild and Ravisloe Country Clubs.
Information about golf or sponsorships may be obtained by calling Janet Noth at 708-755-6579.
MARIAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Elementary and Junior High School
2007 Athletic and Enrichment Camps ATHLETIC CAMPS Boys Baseball Boys Basketball Boys Football Boys Volleyball Girls Cheerleading Girls Basketball Girls/Boys Summer Running Girls Softball Girls Volleyball Girls/Boys Soccer Girls/Boys Tennis Girls/Boys Track & Field Fencing
9
Grades 5-9 Grades 4-9 Grades 5-9 Grades 5-9 Grades 2-9 Grades 4-9 Grades 6-12 Grades 5-8 Grades 4-9 Grades 5-9 Grades 4-9 Ages 11-18 Grades 7-8
ENRICHMENT CAMPS Mixed Media Art Weird Chemistry Technology Camp Movie Making
Grades 6-8 Grades 6-8 Grades 6-8 Grades 6-8
Students entering 9th grade or current high school students must be enrolled at Marian Catholic. Campers register for grades they are entering in the fall. For more information on these camps check our website at www.marianchs.com or call Diana McDonnell (708.756.9418) with questions or to request a camp booklet.
...What’s Happening Around Marian
With helping hands from Marilyn Fried, Pat DeGregorio and Laura Rogers, the annual Mothers Club Silver Tea honors the Dominican Sisters.
Gary Kopycinski and senior Tim Spear chat during Kopycinski’s educational religious tour of the “Abrahamic Trifecta.”
Former Marian college counselor Sue Biemeret (middle) reunites with Tom Perozzi ’80, along with his wife Agnes and their two sons, Joe and Tommy. Sue was Tom’s college counselor when he was at Marian and now she is son Tommy’s college counselor at Stevenson High School – a first for Sue, having counseled a father and then his son!
Sophomores Jim and Mike Panozzo, with their sister Sarah, who suffers from neurofibromatosis (NF), share a moment before the “Smiles for Sarah” Take a Hike for NF Research fundraiser. Jim and Mike, along with the Marian varsity women’s basketball team and several members of the boys baseball program participated in this years “Smiles for Sarah” to benefit NF.
Marian sophomores, Doug Tolish, Bryan Golubski, (Colin Cortes, St. Ignatus student), Nick Payne and David Brost meet with the Chicago Bears’ Virginia McCaskey at the first Champions of Faith event in early February. The Champions of Faith Project is a Catholic evangelization mission which hopes to showcase the intersection of sports and faith by profiling many of the most accomplished and devout figures in sports both on and off the field.
The Hall of Fame Class of 2007 was honored on Feb. 28, including Gregg Bendrick ’80, Mary Jensen Camp ’83, Jim McAteer ’89, Anne and Connor Loesch, and Mary Ann Daviera Angellotti ’85.
Ann Naughton, First Lady Laura Bush, President George Bush, Sarah Naughton and Nick Naughton ’00 gather at the White House for the Holiday Party. Nick began working as an intern at the White House over a year ago, and after the internship was hired as a Presidential Analyst.
10
This year’s College Day welcomed back many 2006 grads, including Amanda Dawson, Lauren Kowalkowski, Nicole Padula and Whitney Knight. This event gives juniors and seniors the opportunity to ask questions about college life in an open forum.
11/01/06 through 2/14/07
GIFTS IN MEMORY OF... William Agnew
Holly Dingler
Steven Kadish
Robert J. O'Meara
Dorothy Semith
Ann Allegro
Raymond A. Dockus
Kerry Ann Keca
Deborah O'Neill
Thelma F. Sikora
Patricia Jean Allen
Edwin Doerr
Jan "John" Kmiecik
Louis Olszowy
Mary Ann Skibbie
Pasquale Angelini
John Donahue
Maybelle Krech
Marion Overtoom
Victoria Skiscim
Theresa Angellotti
Dan Doolan
Leonard Kruger
Louise S. Pachol
Raymond F. Smaron
Lawrence Aprati
Michael Doyle
Marge Kruse
Lynn Baumgartner Panici ’84
Audrey Sowa
Josephine Argento
Opal Ewing
Michael D. Lambke
Arthur Paquette
Lawrence A. Stapleton, Jr. ’70
Marrie Cae Ashmore
Douglas L. Fansher
Philip Landolina
Chris Paredes ’79
Chris T. Stella
Mary Jean Atwater
Ben Fellerhoff
Anthony F. Landowski
Mark Paredes ’74
Ronald Stillman
Jerome P. Baron
Michael Flanagan
Joseph J. Laschober, III
Rosemary Parker
Peter Stratta
Linda I. Bava
Marjorie Fleming
Eugene Leer
Norma Payne
Patti Jo Quattrocki Sugden
Alma Bean
Lawrence "Babe" Frazzini
Gary Lewis
Dean Perozzi, Jr. ’94
Daniel Swetlik
Conrad Bednarek ’62
Manuel Mancera Galvan
Thomas Liesen
John Pettenon
Vincent Sylvester, Jr.
Robert S. Bednarek
Antoinette C. Gasbarro
Ann LoBue
Charles A. Pickens
Alex Tait
Robert Beedy
Daniel A. Gehr ’78
Nancy Mackenzie
Ruth Pillman
Giovanni Testolin
Timothy Benker ’90
Felicia Giannetti
Brian F. Maher ’93
Michael Plesha
Ivan S. Thacker
Wayne Berens
Jim Gibbons
Mary Catherine Malloy
Evelyn Popelka
Curtis Thurston
Kevin Beukema ’97
Louis Glowney
John A. Martin, Sr.
Nancy Molander Price ’71
Annette Timko
Evelyn Barker Bohr
Leonardo Gonzalez
Louie Martinez
Judy Prisco
Paul Udchitz
Jewel Bonner
James E. Goudie
Mary Mascitti
Andrew Racz
James Venturi
LaVerne Bredelis
Eva Greene
Lloyd Mason
Maria Radigan
Ed Verst
Ryan Brothers ’98
Albert U. Grohman
Emil J. Mastandrea
Marcia Ramsey
Mike Virus
Nellie Brown
Christine Guzzo
Sharon McCalles
Eileen Randall
Philip Vogt
Andre Bruce
Lottie Hajda
Edward McDermott, Jr.
Emma Reading
Richard Wagner
Irene Bruen
Mary Halaburt
Victoria McGrath
Stanley Reindl ’82
Mark A. Waldron, Jr.
Mary Ann Bullaro
Cal Harris
George McNamara, Sr.
Peg Reindl
Toni Marie Capretti Wall ’72
Reverend Joseph M. Burns
Franics A. Harrison
Edith Meade
Basil Rippey
Lyndon "Stretch" Waller
Joseph Butitta
Judith A. Hartung
Ruth Michalski
Florence T. Rogers
Lyndsey Whittingham ’02
Clifford Butz, Jr.
Bernice J. "Bea" Hattemer
Norman "Hots" Michels
Merril Ronsick
Joseph A. Wicinski
Dave Campbell
Bill Hayes
Wanda Mikolajczyk
Raymond S. Rossetto
Mother of Ruth Ann Winkin
Margaret Carter
Gary Hedger
Francis J. "Hank" Moffatt
Joseph Russo
Joseph J. Wojdula ’64
Shirley Chavez
Leonard G. Hering, Sr.
Elpida Molina
Richard Sacchetti
Cecelia A. Wozniak
Analina Coers
Joseph Herman
Cecelia S. Molo
Arthur Sainz
Marion Wozniak
Alvurnia Conway
Clementine Hincka
Edward Morin
Harold J. Santori
Joe Zagar
Marie Covelli
Charles Ingolia, Jr.
Patrick Murphy ’81
Joseph E. Sargent
Jessie Zajeski
Louise Crook
Helen Januchowski
Daniel Murray
Helen Sassar
Linda Zybak
Richard T. Davis
Margaret Mary Joerger
Megan Coe Muzzo ’78
Ray Scampini
Frank DiCosola
Robert Joerger
Albert C. Naal, Jr.
Anna Schassburger
Barbara Dietz
Beatrice Johnson
Joanne Brennan Nirchi ’89
Madeline Sheu
Frank R. DiMaggio
Richard Johnson
June O'Connor
Daniel Scofield
11
ALUMNI NOTES
Dr. Lynn Manning ’64
A.J., Jimmy, Cecile, John Paul and Michael Theo, children of Dan Schuller ’87
Megan and Shannon Clemons, daughters of Marijo (Murphy) Clemons ’81
Michael, Cara and Lauren Kucharski, children of Joy (Olzewski) Kucharski ’91
appreciation for those who taught me during my youth. My daytime job is spent in a financial services office in which I sometimes prepare proposals for many of our clients. I cannot begin to enumerate the countless times I am using skills I learned over twenty-five years ago in your calculus class and I wanted to finally say 'Thank you.' Besides teaching me word problem solving skills and encouraging my love of math and love of learning, your class also taught me many life skills that I continue to use today."
Dr. Lynn (Berglind) Manning ’64 is Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Bloom Township High School District 206. She received the Jim Montgomery Instructional Leadership Award at a presentation October 11, 2006 in Downers Grove, IL. The Illinois Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) gives the award annually to recognize educators who "excel in instructional leadership." Dr. Manning has been instrumental in developing a number of Bloom District 206 curriculum improvements and in-service training initiatives.
Tami Wiencek ’80 was elected to the Iowa House of Representatives in November 2006. She was the only Republican to unseat a Democratic incumbent of 24 years in the entire State of Iowa. At the first caucus held by the House, she was given a standing ovation for this feat. Tami lives in Waterloo, Iowa with her two greyhounds and is a member of St. Edward's Church.
Alan Zeller ’64 has retired from Agilent Technologies and Hewlett Packard after 35 years. He now has time for travel, flying model airplanes, his grandson, and home remodeling projects. Art Blakemore ’66 has been appointed the Assistant Provost of Arizona State University while retaining his role as Chairman of the ASU Department of Economics.
Marijo (Murphy) Clemons ’81 lives in San Diego, California with her husband, Lonny, retired Navy and their 6 year old twin daughters who are in first grade. Marijo is a Requirements Analyst at Cardinal Health.
Robert Beckman ’72 is President and CEO of Wicab, Incorporated a company whose focus is biomedical engineering, research and development of biomedical technology. The company was featured on the CBS Evening News with Katie Couric on Thursday, January 18, 2007. The report focused on new technology, called Brainport, which was developed by Wicab. The technology allows a person to regain balance when the normal balance function, provided by the ears, is not functioning properly. This technology, already in place in Europe, is going through an approval process in the United States.
Ann Marie (O'Neill) Foster ’81 currently teaches Biology and works for Kansas University and Haskell Indian Nations University for the National Institute of Health Supported Research Initiative for Scientific Enhancement. She and her husband Bryan, a professor at KU in the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department, live in Lawrence, KS with their two sons Tom and Jack. Mark ’82 and Doris (Compagnoni) ’82 Santschi lived in Wales for two years and returned in June of 2003. They welcomed their eighth child Cecilia Marie in October of 2004 and they now reside in New Lenox, IL.
Wilfred Chapleau ’73, recently left as Chief of the Chicago Heights Fire Department to embark on a new opportunity as Worldwide Coordinator of Trauma Training Programs for the American College of Surgeons. He will be training in Pakistan in April. Thomas Martello ’74 has been appointed Chief of the Chicago Heights Fire Department, following the departure of former chief Wilfred Chapleau ’73. Tom has been with the department for 23 years. He is also the Coordinator of and an instructor for the Fire Science Program at Prairie State College.
Michael McDonald ’83 has recently moved to St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands where he works for Hovensa Refinery as a Terminal Superintendent.
Vincent Schrementi ’74 was recently the subject of a Star Newspaper article showcasing his home built mostly of concrete.
Sean Perry ’86 is currently a Platoon Staff Sergeant with "D" Company in the U.S. Marines, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division. He is scheduled to deploy back to Iraq in early 2007, having already made six deployments of six or more months overseas. Sean has been awarded 18 different commendations and
Robert Branka ’77 checks in with news about his daughter Brandi who is now 16. Brandi is a three-sport starter in basketball, volleyball and track for Bishop McNamara High School in Kankakee. She played on the Elite 8 basketball team in Bloomington in 2006. Bernadette (Wiscons) Hoffman ’79 sent a lovely Christmas card to Sr. Blaise with the following note: "This past year, I agreed to volunteer as a 7th grade catechist at Infant Jesus of Prague teaching 12-13 year olds one hour a week every Wednesday evening. This small foray into the world of teaching has given me a whole new 12
Michael, Gabriel, Daniel, Emma, Joseph, Mary Grace, Anna and Cecilia, children of Mark ’82 and Doris Compagnoni ’82 Santschi
Rianna, Alyssa, and Jaden Reichert, daughters of Andrea (Ross) Reichert ’90
Lauren and Kiley Walton, daughters of Joy Finnegan Walton ’91
Rodney Scott Harrison II, son of Rodney Harrison ’91
Eli and Oliver Lupien, children of J. Chris Lupien '92
Michelle (Flamini) DiBitetto ’92 and her husband Nick welcomed their son, Gianni James DiBitetto, on August 4, 2006 at 8:17 a.m. He weighed in at 7 pounds 13 ounces and was 19 inches long. He has a full head of curly hair like his daddy. Michelle and her family are all doing well.
medals during his career. He and his wife Amanda have three children, Sean Patrick, Dusten James and Lillian Kay. The family resides in Oceanside, CA. Daniel Schuller ’87 and his wife Susan are pleased to announce the birth of their fifth child, Michael Theodore on November 16, 2006. Michael weighed 6 pounds 11 ounces and was 20 inches long.
J. Chris Lupien ’92 and his wife Heather are the proud parents of twin boys born January 8, 2007. Eli weighed in at 6 pounds 2 ounces and 18-1/2 inches long, and Oliver weighed in at 6 pounds 3 ounces and was 18 inches long. Chris and Heather both work at the NBC affiliate in Lexington, Kentucky where he is a reporter and she is an anchor. Proud Grandpa is J. Ward Lupien ’69.
James ’89 and Julie (Katula) ’90 Flamini proudly announce the birth of their daughter Alayna Carmen Flamini on December 18, 2006. Baby Alayna weighed in at 6 pounds 5 ounces and was 18 inches long. Andrea (Ross) Reichert ’90 shared a picture of her three daughters, Rianna Lucia (7) Alyssa Lauren (5) and Jaden Lourdes (2). Martin Conroy ’91 and his wife Christine welcomed the birth of their daughter Kathryn Louise on July 15, 2006. Kathryn was 19-1/2 inches long and weighed 7 pounds 3 ounces.
Marianne Quandt ’92 and fiance, Tra Lowell of Gunnison, CO are planning a May wedding. Marianne is the daughter of Holly Geis Lee, of Naperville, IL. and Thomas Quandt of Downers Grove, IL. Marianne is the owner of the Corner Cupboard in Gunnison.
Rodney Harrison ’91 and his wife Erika are pleased to announce the birth of Rodney Scott Harrison II on January 11, 2007. Young Rodney entered the world weighing 8 pounds 3 ounces and was 20 inches long.
Sheila Conroy ’93 married David Canmann on November 25, 2006. Her sister Marianne Conroy ’00 was her maid of honor and brother Martin Conroy ’91 was a groomsman. Brothers Michael ’98 and Tom served as ushers. Picture on page 15.
Joy (Olzewski) Kucharski ’91 and her husband Michael are thrilled to announce the birth of Cara Grace Kucharski on December 13, 2006. Cara weighed 7 pounds 10 ounces and was 20 inches long. Her siblings, 8 year old twins Michael and Laurel think she's pretty terrific.
Mickey Griffin ’93 was inducted into the East Suburban Catholic Conference Sports Hall of Fame in late 2006 as a standout athlete in wrestling. Angela (Segvich) Matushek ’93 along with her husband Joe and four year old Oskar welcomed the birth of Augustus "Augie" on August 17, 2006.
Joy (Finnegan) Walton ’91 and her husband Larry were blessed with a healthy daughter, Lauren Margaret, born August 23, 2006. Big sister Kiley (2) is thrilled! Lauren weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces and was 21 inches long.
Michael ’93 and Tara (Murphy) ’93 Singler are proud to announce the birth of their 2nd child Kaitlyn Christine Singler. She was born on July 21, 2006. Kaitlyn is the little sister to 3 year old Brant Mitchel Singler. Mike is employed by Trade Press Publishing as a Western Regional Sales Manager for the Progressive Railroading magazine division. Recently, Tara earned her master's degree in PE from Chicago
Mia (Angellotti) Allen ’92 and her husband Justin celebrated the first birthday of their daughter Taylor Rose on December 5, 2006. The family is awaiting the arrival of a new member in April 2007.
Taylor Rose Allen, daughter of Mia (Angellotti) Allen ’92
Kaitlyn and Brant Singler, children of Michael ’93 and Tara (Murphy) ’93 Singler
Augustus and Oskar Matushek, sons of Angela (Segvich) Matushek ’93
13
Jacob Terry Guler, son of Jeremy Guler ’94
ALUMNI NOTES
Matthew McCarthy, son of Daniel McCarthy ’94
Jack Aaron Ruswick, son of Toni (Chiappini) Ruswick ’96
Rocco Pilotto, son of Abby (Chapleau) Pilotto ’98
Brad Wisowaty ’04 with his mom, Jennifer Wisowaty after completing the Chicago Marathon last fall.
State. She is in her 10th year as a math teacher and varsity softball coach at Plainfield South High School. The Singlers reside in Plainfield, IL.
Brian Beddigs ’01 was conferred the degree of Bachelor of Music Education on December 16, 2006 from Illinois State University.
Jeremy Guler ’94 and his wife Amanda welcomed their third child, Jacob Terry "JT" on October 23, 2006. He was 10 pounds 4 ounces, 21-1/2 inches long. Jeremy is a Business teacher at Riverside School in Fishers, IN, and coaches 7th grade boys basketball and varsity baseball.
Sharon Pagorek ’02 spent her fall '06 semester in New York City as an intern for ABC. She graduated from Purdue in December. Erik Skurka ’03 finished up his undergraduate degree this past fall and was accepted into the Masters of Accountancy Program at the University of Colorado in Boulder. His expected graduation date is May 2008. In addition to graduate school, Erik has a busy-season internship at the Denver office of Price Waterhouse Coopers LLP in the tax department. This summer, he will return to the Chicago area for summer employment at Legacy CPAs, LLP.
Daniel McCarthy ’94 and his wife Melanie welcomed their first child into the world on March 8, 2006. Matthew Joseph McCarthy weighed in at 6 pounds and was 18 -1/2 inches long. Kathryn (Puch) Grund ’95 was married to Jeffrey Grund on November 18, 2006. They currently live in the Lincoln Park area of Chicago. Kathryn graduated from DePaul University in June of 2006 with an MBA and now works in Northbrook, IL for Allstate Insurance as a project manager.
Joe Carlasare '04, a junior at Loyola University is majoring in both philosophy and political science. He recently was recognized as founding a student group called Democracy which is a young activist group aiming to increase the youth's participation in America's democracy, especially elections.
Robert Velo ’95 has produced the motion picture, Lovewrecked which was broadcasted on the ABC Family channel for the month of February. For those who missed the theatrical release and don’t have ABC Family, the film will be out on DVD this spring.
Tim Kelly ’04 is a junior at Eastern Illinois University and was named to the ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA Academic All-District 5 Football team. The Region 5 team is voted on by sports information directors from Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and Wisconsin. To be eligible, a player must have a 3.2 cumulative GPA and be a major contributor to their team. Kelly, a junior defensive tackle, makes his first Academic All-District appearance. He is credited with 31 tackles, including six for losses this season. Tim is a business major and holds a 3.73 GPA.
Justin Opiola ’96 earned his Masters in Education and is in his second year of teaching in District 170 where he has been asked to represent their effort to strengthen home-school connections at the America's Choice Conference. Toni (Chiappini) Ruswick ’96 and her husband Aaron are pleased to announce the birth of their first child, Jack Aaron Ruswick, on December 30, 2006. Baby Jack weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces and was 21 inches long.
Steve Tortorello ’04 continues his studies at Notre Dame. During winter break, he spent time in New York City as an intern with the "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" show. Erin Dolan ’06 a freshman at Notre Dame, participated in the Aidan Project, an event inspired by ND Sophomore Aidan Fitzgerald who was diagnosed with cancer on September 25, 2006. Fitzgerald's roommate and friends began the fleece blanket and hat making project to raise awareness of cancer in young people. Each item made is tied with a tag which reads "The Aidan Project.” This blanket was made with love and care, for each who receives one knows it comes with a prayer. Fitzgerald was also Erin's flag football coach and had to quit because of the cancer.
Gina Sanek ’98 married Michael Anaclerio on July 22, 2006. She and her husband are both employed at Thornton Fractional North High School in Calumet City, IL. Abby (Chapleau) Pilotto ’98 and her husband Alfred are proud to announce the birth of their son, Rocco Fixari Pilotto, on July 28, 2006. Rocco weighed 6 pounds 4 ounces and was 20 inches long. Carlo A. Gozzi ’00 has been promoted to the position of Assistant Vice President for Park National Bank, a subsidiary of FBOP Corporation, Chicago, IL. Carlo is a 2004 graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and holds a bachelor's degree in economics.
Shannon Lancaster ’06 contributed an article to the November issue of Reptiles Magazine telling a strange story about how her kingsnake, Damara had started eating herself, tail first, and was about halfway back up the length of her body. While on the way to the reptile store for help, the snake spat herself back out. Shannon received a new stackable Visionarium for her story and some advice on what might have happened and how to avoid the problem in the future. Katelyn Campbell ’10 was awarded by Catholic Digest as one of America's Top Young Leaders. The publication awarded 12 scholarships to students around the country who are leaders among their peers and who give freely of their time and energy in service to their schools and communities, all the while juggling academics and school activities.
Brenna Kyner ’00 appeared on the season opening episode of "American Idol" on January 16, 2007. Adrienne Pope ’00 has completed a two year teaching assignment in Houston, TX through Teach for America and was named Teacher of the Year in her school district this past May. She has now returned to Chicago and is doing a public relations internship at Legal Fish. 14
Marianne Conroy ’00, Maid of Honor; Martin T. Conroy, father of the bride; Sheila (Conroy) Canmann ’93, bride; David Canmann, groom; Rosann Conroy, mother of the bride. Back row: Michael Conroy ’98, usher; Thomas Conroy, usher; Martin P. Conroy ’91, groomsman; Christine Conroy, bridesmatron (wife of Martin P.); Baby Kathryn Conroy.
W H A T ’ S T H E N E W S W I T H YO U , A L U M ? Tell us any interesting news, events, or milestones in your life (marriage, children, promotions, service, career moves, etc.) that you would like to share with your fellow alumni. Also, please be sure to use this form to update information. Name(s) ____________________________________________________________________________________Class of _____________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ Is this a new address? Yes No City ____________________ State ________ Zip _______________ Email _________________________________________________ Home Phone _____________________________________________ Business Phone __________________________________________ Occupation / Position _____________________________________________________________________________________________ NEWS _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________
send to: Marian Catholic High School, Alumni Relations Coordinator 700 Ashland Avenue, Chicago Heights, Illinois 60411 fax: 708.756.9759 • email: alumni@marianchs.com
✁
W O U L D YO U L I K E T O S H A R E YO U R E X P E R T I S E ? ❑ My name / address on reverse is correct. ❑ Please make corrections as needed.
Email ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Best phone to reach me _______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Career Day ❑ I would be willing to place my name on the Career Day Speakers’ Bureau list. (A time commitment from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. one day in the spring is necessary.)
My specific focus would be ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Career Mentor ❑ I would be willing to host a student to “shadow” me at my work place at a mutually agreeable time. Job / Career / Field ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Phone _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ❑ I live out of town (or have a career where job “shadow” is difficult), but would be willing to serve as a resource by phone / email to the MCHS
Guidance Department should a student wish to explore my field of expertise which is: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
✁ 15
MARIAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION 2006-2007 Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ’67 President Sr. Kathleen Anne Tait, O.P. Principal William Hogan Chief Financial Officer Peter Ruhl Vice-President for Institutional Advancement John F. Heneghan Assistant Principal, Operations John F. Kozojed Assistant Principal, Student Activities Dr. Shirley Morris Assistant Principal, Academics
Office for Institutional Advancement M ARIAN C ATHOLIC H IGH S CHOOL 700 Ashland Avenue Chicago Heights, IL 60411 708.755.6579
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage
PAID Permit No. 274 Tinley Park, IL
www.marianchs.com ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
ADVISORY BOARD 2006-2007 Sr. Marcelline Koch, O.P. Dominican Sisters’ Liaison Peg Massucci Recording Secretary Kevin Larson Chair Peter Kroner Vice-Chair Patrick Dolan ’72 Past-Chair Genevieve Boesen Michael Botelho Michael Caruso Wilfred Chapleau ’73 William Cleary, III ’75 Charles Gallagher ’77 Sr. M. Janice Greenwood, O.P. Joseph Hamann ’79
Harry Howisen ’93 Jeffrey Johnson Sharon Kiehl Vincent Krydynski ’81 Michelle Feldner Lancaster ’77 Stanley Pagorek Dwight Snow ’87
OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Peter Ruhl Vice-President for Institutional Advancement Carol (Burke) Swanson ’81 Director of Development Peg Massucci Assistant to the President Gail Young Alumni Relations Coordinator Kevin Kelly ’80 Public Relations Coordinator Janet Noth Office Manager Cindy Dupczak Database Coordinator Kathleen Dalton Assistant Database Coordinator Sr. Dorothy Marie Solak, O.P. Diana McDonnell Recruitment Mary Moffatt Consultant
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Colleen (O’Neill) Ranieri ’83 Chair Nancy (Lynch) Virene ’81 Vice-Chair
OUR MISSION AT MARIAN CATHOLIC Marian Catholic, under the sponsorship of the Springfield Dominican Sisters, is a coeducational, college preparatory high school where students seek truth, exhibit personal responsibility, cultivate their individual talents, and demonstrate Christian service and leadership.