Moeller Windows - Spring/Summer 2008

A C a t h o l i c S c h o o l i n t h e M a r i a n i s t Tr a d i t i o n

M ELLER

D e v e l o p i n g L e a d e r s h i p i n Yo u n g M e n

SPRING/SUMMER 2008

HOUSE THE MOELLER HOUSE SYSTEM COMES OF AGE

SPIRIT

principal’sdesk Soon we will celebrate our 50th anniversary. In five brief decades, Moeller has accumulated an unprecedented record of achievements, which I’ve chronicled on pages 14-17. And we’ve only just begun.

It is our ultimate vision to lead Moeller to be recognized as one of the top 10 Catholic high schools in the nation. In March we launched a strategic process that will help us develop this long-range plan for the school. Our goal is to engage all segments of the Moeller Family — alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students, and supporters — in this exciting endeavor that will not only strengthen Moeller in every way but bring us to an historic level of achievement.

Administrative assistant Beth Zilch, This strategic plan will be the catalyst chair of the Development and Marketing for enhancing and growing what has always been the core of a Planning Committee, serves as a scribe Moeller Marianist education: forming young men in the Catholic faith during the brainstorming process. (educating for faith formation), challenging students academically and athletically (providing a quality, integral education), enhancing healthy personal relationships (educating in the Family Spirit), inspiring our youth to be humanitarians (educating for service, peace, and justice), and helping them build life-long leadership skills (educating for adaptation and change).

You are cordially invited to join us in this new millennium process — this golden moment in Moeller’s history. Greatness is truly within our reach, so we are reaching out to you to become an integral part of this plan. Please contact me at BCollison@Moeller.org. Your passion, combined with our own, will help Moeller realize its fullest potential as a national leader in Catholic education.

“It is our ultimate vision to lead Moeller to be recognized as one of the top 10 Catholic high schools in the nation.”

Yours in Service,

Blane M. Collison, Principal

M ELLER

VO L UM E 1 2 • N UM B E R 2

S P R I N G / S UM M E R 2 0 0 8

w w w. m o e l l e r.o rg

contents cover story 10 HOUSE SPIRIT The House System Comes of Age

features 14 PREPARING FOR GREATNESS Moeller’s 50th Anniversary

18 A RECORD FINISH Derby Main Event a Winner

Main Event (See story on page 18.)

20 FIELD OF DREAMS BECOMES REALITY

The 2008-09 House System leadership prepares for the upcoming school year.

(See cover story on page 10.)

departments 2 FROM THE EDITOR 3 MOELLER WIRED 22 CRUSADER CONNECTION 24 TRACKING

Field of Dreams becomes a reality.

(See story on page 20.)

fromtheeditor WHO ARE ‘THE MEN OF MOELLER’?

Business leaders frequently talk in terms of “the end in mind.” They ask themselves, What is the “vision” of this company? What do we ultimately hope to accomplish? In education, we ask ourselves the same thing: What type of students do we hope to graduate after four years? Who are these “Men of Moeller”?

MICROSCOPIC VIEW: One way we can answer this is by looking at the school’s “Man of Moeller” recipient, for this award honors the senior who represents the best overall vision of a Moeller graduate. Salutatorian Brent Suter received this year’s honor. He is a Harvard-bound school leader and two-sport varsity athlete. His high school resume is more than impressive — it’s surreal. We’ve profiled him on page 4, but the accolades only tell part of the tale.

And every Man of Moeller recipient has been similarly impressive.

MACROSCOPIC VIEW: Another way we can view this is by looking at the class as a whole. Moeller’s vision of a Man of Moeller is grounded in Father Chaminade’s vision inspired by Mary. He founded the Society of Mary (Marianists), who later consolidated his vision into five characteristics, called the “Marianist Charism.” Using this Charism as its foundation, Moeller aspires to (1) graduate young men who are academically accomplished by educating their mind, body, heart, and spirit; (2) graduate students who are grounded in their faith; (3) cultivate an interdependent community, called “educating in the Family Spirit”; (4) graduate young men who are committed to service, peace, and justice; and (5) develop students who can inspire and adapt well to positive change in our ever-evolving world.

These five elements or “characteristics” define the type of graduate Moeller aims to develop: a Man of Moeller. More simply, we call it “developing leadership in young men.”

So, how do our students stack up against this measure? Qualitatively speaking, 97-99% of our students pursue postsecondary education, and 67% of this year’s graduates have earned scholarship and grant offers. Annually, approximately 90% of our students participate in co-curricular activities, and almost half of our seniors spend part of their summer doing mission work.

Quantitatively speaking, the Moeller "Band of Brothers" is alive and well, with innumerable anecdotes of life-long connections. Most recently, I received an e-mail from Marcus Colosimo '90 about his Mike "Z" Zegarski Foundation.

Mike Zegarski is a '90 grad who suffered a brain aneurysm in March 2006, so Marcus and other friends initiated a golf outing, with the proceeds going directly to the Zegarski family to help defray medical expenses. Since then, the event has evolved to become the Mike "Z" Zegarski Foundation, a non-profit organization, which has been set up to assist other alums and students from Moeller High School and Alter High School who are experiencing similar hardship. Their next event will be a golf scramble this fall, September 27, at Walden Ponds in Hamilton, OH. (Contact Marcus Colosimo at (513) 314-7467 or e-mail him at marcus.colosimo@gmail.com for more information about how to participate or to make a donation.)

As you read through this issue, I hope you’ll see a pattern emerge. I believe you’ll recognize that Fr. Chaminade’s spirit is alive and well. His “end in mind” is fully embraced by our Moeller Family and embodied by our graduates, our Men of Moeller.

Johanna Kremer Editor, Moeller Magazine/Communications Director 2 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

M ELLER VOL. 12, NUMBER 2

SPRING/SUMMER 2008

Moeller Magazine is an official publication of Archbishop Moeller High School for alumni, parents, and friends.

Comments and questions are encouraged. Send your letters to: MOELLER MAGAZINE EDITOR Archbishop Moeller High School Johanna Kremer 9001 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 45242-7780 Voice Mail: (513) 791-1680, ext. 1330 Fax: (513) 792-3343 E-Mail: JKremer@Moeller.org

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Nick Abele ’08 Chris Albrecht ’77 Ginny Bauer Barry Borman ’64 Mark Chalifoux ’03 Blane Collison Tyler Frankenberg ’08, Crusader Editor in Chief Chris Anne Gaier Debbie Geiger Mark Gunza ’10 Sally Nugent Patty Wilkins Rob Winterman ’80

CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITORS Bill Balbach ’72 Cindy Neuhaus

ADMINISTRATION Blane Collison, Principal Carl Kremer, Dean of Students Bro. Ron Luksic, S.M., Dean of Student Life Bill Balbach ’72, Treasurer Barry Borman ’64, Director of Athletic Operations

CREDITS Layout & Design: June Pfaff Daley, Daley Design e-mail: jpdaley@fuse.net Printing: Larry Kuhlman ’81, Bramkamp Printing www.Bramkamp.com Distribution: Ginny Bauer and Chris Anne Gaier ©2008. All rights reserved. Archbishop Moeller High School is owned and operated by the Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati and adheres to its policies.

moellerwired ...for leadership

Principal Announces Three Key Leadership Hires AT THE APRIL strategic planning session, Principal Blane Collison announced three new hires who will be key to implementing Moeller’s upcoming strategic plan. “After an extensive and intensive search process, we believe we have hired three outstanding leaders with a vast amount of experience who will help propel our school to the next level,” he said.

Alumnus Jim Stofko ’85 is returning to his alma mater after more than 17 years in the business world, including Cincinnati Bell, Sprint, and Sibcy Cline, to become Moeller’s director of development. He will be filling the void that Chris Albrecht ’77, current director of development, will leave when he returns to the business world to focus on his executive search and consulting business. (See page 22.) Stofko comes to Moeller with an empowering management style and a reputation as a problem solver. “Jim’s management background in competitive, service-sensitive environments makes him a good fit for Moeller,” said Collison. “We’re glad to have him return to Moeller.”

Steve Ranieri will be Moeller’s director of institutional advancement (DIA), a newly created position. Ranieri spent the last two years as DIA for

Archbishop McNicholas High School. During that time he developed and successfully implemented the school’s strategic plan, which included increasing the alumni giving rate, exceeding revenue goals for the annual fund, increasing the number of donors, redesigning the communications and alumni association programs, and securing the school’s largest donor gift.

Prior to McNicholas, Ranieri worked as director of alumni relations for Thomas More College, was assistant to the president at the University of South Florida, director of marketing for the University of WisconsinMilwaukee, and director of marketing for the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Ranieri has a master’s in public administration from the University of North Carolina and a bachelor’s in athletic administration from St. Thomas University in Miami, FL. He’s a graduate of St. Xavier High School.

Moeller’s new dean of academics will be Chris Wilke. For the past six years Wilke has worked for Purcell Marian High School in a variety of leadership positions. He currently serves as the coordinator of administrative services. His responsibilities include piloting curriculum development, coordinating the Scholars Program, and serving as the director of the Office of Student Success. In addition, he has been Purcell Marian’s summer

Pictured above: Chris Wilke, Moeller’s new dean of academics, sits in on the Academic Planning Committee.

school and transition program principal, social studies department chair, student government moderator, and intercession director for unique culture and service-learning trips.

As an educator, Wilke has taught AP US government, world civilizations, economics, and issues of democracy and modern US history, and he’s been the lead teacher for developing the school’s technology-based curriculum. For two summers he was a Xavier University staff member of the Xavier Center for Excellence in Education (XCEED). During that time he taught social studies curriculum, methodology, standards alignment, and content to teachers of students with special needs. Wilke has also taught at McNicholas High School, Cardinal Pacelli School, and ChaminadeJulienne High School.

Wilke has a master’s in educational administration from Xavier University and a bachelor’s in history from the University of Dayton.

Pictured from left: Jim Stofko ’85, Blane Collison, and Steve Ranieri.

MOELLER • 3

moellerwired ...academics

Awardee Hopes to Find Alternate Energy Source SALUTATORIAN BRENT SUTER earned the school’s highest overall honor, the Man of Moeller Award. This fall he will attend Harvard University and major in environmental engineering, working to find an efficient alternative energy source. He first became interested in this field after watching Al Gore’s movie, An Inconvenient Truth, and is considering pursuing ideas involving solar energy. “Even if we disagree on the global warming issue, we all can agree that Americans need to decrease our dependence on foreign oil and be better stewards of the earth’s resources,” said Suter. “I’m hopeful that college will prepare me to be part of the solution.”

The Man of Moeller Award is presented to the senior who best exemplifies the type of graduate the school aims to develop: a well-rounded student of good character and academic excellence who demonstrates a solid spiritual life and service orientation and who is actively involved with co-curriculars.

In addition to being the Moeller’s salutatorian, Brent has earned numerous other academic honors: the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Award in Math & Science, OHSAA Scholar Athlete Award, the Greider Memorial Scholar Athlete Award, the Award of Distinction, and the Mathematics and Religion Departments’ four-year academic excellence awards, just to name a few. He’s a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Men’s Chorus and Men’s Vocal Ensemble.

Brent’s service work includes tutoring, MACH 1 (Moeller Advocates of Community Housing who rehab buildings in the Over-the-Rhine), Corryville Big Brothers Program, and summer mission work. The Pastoral Ministry Department honored Brent with the Charlotte McCullough Award for outstanding merit.

As a leader, the faculty and students elected Brent Vice Captain of the school, which is the second-highest honor in the student governance system. He was also a Relay for Life captain and a Big Brothers program leader, and Pillar House honored Brent with its “Man of Moeller” and “Captain’s” awards.

Athletically, Brent played varsity basketball and baseball, helping both teams to four years of GCL championships and accruing numerous athletic honors. “Brent’s one of the finest all-around athletes we’ve had at our school for a long time,” said Carl Kremer, Moeller’s head basketball coach. “Not only does he have great athletic ability in both sports, but he’s also a tremendous teammate.” Brent was listed as a top 100 baseball prospect for The Buckeye Scout, and he will play baseball for Harvard’s Crimson Team. He is the son of Michael & Shirley Suter of Cincinnati.

Moeller salutatorian Brent Suter, his parents, Michael and Shirley Suter, and brother, Troy, pose prior to the graduation ceremony at Landmark Christian.

Valedictorian Offered Half a Million in Scholarships & Grants MICHAEL DICKERT, Moeller’s Class of 2008 valedictorian, received more than half a million dollars in scholarship and grant opportunities. He recently accepted Vanderbilt University’s offer, where he will major in chemical engineering. Besides earning the school’s top academic position, Michael was awarded the University of Rochester’s Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award and two four-year academic excellence awards by the Moeller Science and Social Studies Departments. He is a member of the Academic Team, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Model APEC Delegation, Science Fiction Film Club, Corryville Catholic Big Brothers Program, Hamilton County Teen Court, and Tennis Team. In addition, Michael has served as a tutor, tour guide, basketball referee, camp counselor, and summer mission trip participant. He is the son of Tom and Mary Dickert of Loveland.

4 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

Valedictorian Michael Dickert ’08 with parents Tom and Mary Dickert.

Highest Service Award “WE’RE DONE. IT’S OVER. It’s hard to imagine we’re finished. But this is not the end,” said commencement speaker Nick Abele ’08.

“Now we are to ‘crusade’ forward to our new beginnings...”

While urging his classmates to celebrate new beginnings, Nick had much to celebrate about his last four years. Besides being chosen commencement speaker, he received Moeller’s highest service honor, the Blessed Father Chaminade Service Award, which is bestowed to the senior who has given service to the school, his church, and the community, and who has demonstrated leadership in service activities and programs. Nick has earned numerous honors. He received the Charlotte McCullough Pastoral Ministry Award, four years perfect attendance, four years academic honor roll, three years service honor roll, and the “Mr. Eveslage” House Award. He is a

member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Pastoral Ministry Executive Board, and St. Columban Youth

moellerwired ...for academics

Leadership Team. Nick was elected House Captain and served as a Ronald McDonald House leader, Kairos 61 rector, St. Columban Faith Formation Commission co-chair, a yell man, and the varsity baseball student manager. In addition, he’s actively involved in numerous school activities, such as the Crusader student newspaper, Squire literary magazine, Corryville Catholic Big Brothers Program, and the Homecoming and rally committees.

His service and social justice activities include March for Life, Relay for Life, Moeller’s canned food drive, school liturgies, and summer mission trip work. In his spare time, Nick plays piano and baseball. He specialized in art at Moeller and will attend Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, majoring in communication design and art history. Nick is the son of David and Kathleen Abele of Loveland.

Moeller Seniors Offered 12.8 Million WHERE ARE MOELLER’S TOP 10 GRADUATES HEADED? 1. MICHAEL P. DICKERT will attend Vanderbilt University with grants and an endowment from Vanderbilt’s Engineering Department.

2. BRENT M. SUTER will attend Harvard University with a Harvard Faculty Scholarship.

3. ALEXANDER S. MARTIN will attend Loyola University Chicago with a Trustee Scholarship.

4. DANIEL R. YOUNG will attend Case Western Reserve University with a President's Scholarship and the Ohio Academic Scholarship.

5. ALEX J. HOFRICHTER will attend Stevens Institute of Technology with a Presidential Scholarship and Edwin A. Stevens Scholarship.

6. JAMES R. HUBBARD will attend the University of Notre Dame.

7. IAN J. KOWALSKI will attend The Ohio State University with a Provost Scholarship.

8. GRIFFIN R. NAYLOR will attend the University of Notre Dame with a Notre Dame Club of Greater Cincinnati Scholarship.

9. TYLER S. FRANKENBERG will attend the University of Virginia with a Jefferson Scholarship.

10. MARCUS M. KETCHA will attend Villanova University with a Proctor & Gamble Scholarship.

MOELLER SENIORS received 12.8 million dollars in scholarship and grant offers. Valedictorian Michael Dickert ’08 received more than half a million in scholarship/grant offers.

Annually, 97-99% of the graduating class pursues postsecondary education. This year, 144 of the 214 graduates — or 67% — received offers, with 141 of the scholarship opportunities offered over a four-year period.

Pictured from left: Steven Arnett (will attend the University of Kentucky and received UK's William C. Parker Scholarship); Tommy Armour (will attend the University of Texas at Arlington), and Alex Apking (will attend the University of Toledo).

MOELLER • 5

moellerwired ...for academics A self portait by Vincent Palopoli (photo by Matt Wilson ’08).

Seniors Exhibit Work

‘Sketchbob’ Imparts Wisdom

The University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning invited Moeller’s senior art and photography students to participate in a high school art exhibition. The participants included Vincent Palopoli, Matt Wilson, Chris Lefke, Ben Crist, Nick Faust, John Berry, Luke Effler, John Lavelle, Cameron Fields, Grant Nolte, and Alex Schneider.

YMCA Award SENIOR BRENDAN FISCHER was one of 40 teens chosen out of hundreds of nominees throughout the Tristate area to receive the YMCA Character Award. To earn this honor, students must exemplify YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and they must demonstrate leadership through service to their community. Fischer is a member of the National Honor Society and recipient of the school’s Outstanding Service Award for the 100+ service hours he accumulated. He is a Big Brother in the Correyville Catholic Little Brothers Program and makes bi-monthly visits to tutor and mentor the kindergarten students. Fischer has tutored Moeller students, participated in Relay for Life, rehabbed homes during a Louisiana hurricane relief trip, and worked in the St. Francis Soup kitchen. He is also is a member of Moeller’s Swim Team and earned the team’s Crusader Award. At St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church in Kenwood, Fischer received the Citizenship Award because of his involvement in the school and church community. For example, he taught adult computer classes to the senior citizens and currently serves as a Eucharistic Minister and lector.

‘Crusader’ & ‘Templar’ Earn 1st Place ALUMNUS BOB FISHER ’86, well-known as “SketchBob” in the art world (see SketchBob.com), spent a day with Moeller’s art students offering words of wisdom after spending years as a fine artist, entrepreneur, and marketing expert. True to his roots as an artist at Moeller, his training at college, then life experience, Fisher emphasized the importance of keeping a daily sketchbook. “I carry it with me every minute of every day,” he said.

“It serves multiple purposes: a visual journal, a repository of ideas. I experiment with materials and techniques. It helps me stay in shape creatively. Like push-ups, repetition is a critical element of being an artist. If you want to get in shape, would you strive to do 50 push-ups a day or one perfect-push up? If you want to draw, which will make you more successful, five drawings a day or one absolutely perfect drawing? The answer is 10 drawings.”

6 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

MOELLER’S YEARBOOK, the Templar, and student newspaper, the Crusader, earned 1st place awards from the American Scholastic Press Association’s (ASPA) national competition. The Templar received 1st place with special merit, earning a perfect score in creativity and a nearly perfect score in photography.

The yearbook staff included Britt Raymond (advisor), Joe McGinnis (editor), Steve Bohné, Mike Franz, Josh Jasso, Brian Powell, and Eric Schaeper.

Coach Cameron illustration received a This is the Crusader’s fourth special award. consecutive 1st place award. Senior Patrick McDonough’s illustration of Coach Cameron for the newspaper’s first issue received a special ASPA award for “Outstanding Original Art.” The Crusader team included Geoffrey Girard (advisor), Tyler Frankenberg (editor in chief), Luke Bishop, Zach Bortolotto, Joshua Emig, Mark Gunza, Matt Henties, Sam Osborne, Will Schneller, and Austen Verrilli.

moellerwired ...for academics

English Teacher Publishes 3rd book

Brendan Fischer also received St. Vincent Ferrer’s Citizenship Award because of his involvement in the school and community.

MOELLER ENGLISH TEACHER Geoffrey Girard recently published his third book in his Tales of… series, entitled Tales of Eastern Indians, which contains 13 original short stories based on the history and myths of the Eastern American Indians. “Within the pages…you will meet an unforgettable cast of timeless heroes and fantastic beings, dreamers and adventurers, daughters and brothers,” says one editorial review.

“Revealing and authentic, engagingly written, steeped in American history, and at turns fun and dramatic, Tales of the Eastern Indians will charm readers of all ages to discover, remember, and celebrate this unique culture and its storied people of both yesterday and today.” * Girard’s two previous books are Tales of the Jersey Devil and Tales of the Atlantic Pirates.

worked in several Moeller names and personalities. He said he selected the topic of Indians because he wanted to learn more about the subject. “I probably read about 50 books to prepare for this project,” he said. “After pirates and the Jersey Devil, I wanted to study something a bit more real and complex.”

Girard is also Moeller’s journalism teacher/Crusader advisor and moderator for both the Creative Writing Club and the Chess Club.

In 2003 he was awarded the International Writers of the Future prize for fiction.

A fourth book on the American colonies is scheduled for next year.

Girard wrote the book last year in approximately three months, he told the Crusader, Moeller’s student newspaper, and he

* Review from Amazon.com.

Girard’s books are available in local bookstores and online at Amazon.com.

Government Students Celebrate ‘Super Tuesday’

By Tyler Frankenberg ’08, Crusader Editor in Chief MORE THAN 60 Moeller government students gathered at Willie’s in a reserved section to experience the excitement of the most important round of primary elections in recent history. The scene buzzed with the excitement of a major sports contest with spurts of heated political debate thrown in the mix. “A year ago Hillary Clinton was a lock for the Democratic nomination,” Moeller government teacher Bob Tull said,” and McCain was dead in the water…not just floundering, but already drowned. It’s interesting now that both McCain and Obama are not only competitive, but in positions to win.”

The Cincinnati community got a glimpse of Moeller’s political prowess on Channel 19’s 10 O’clock news. Seniors Nick Faust and Alex Sabo were interviewed, and the last few stragglers of the evening got to see the two on the big screen hours later. Sabo noted the importance of getting students, a group traditionally underrepresented in voter turnout statistics, out to the polls. “I think the event is great because it’s promoting an interest in politics,” he told reports. Tull says he is pleased with the eagerness of Moeller students to become more politically involved. He hopes to hold a similar event next November on election night.

MOELLER • 7

moellerwired ...for service, peace and justice

Moeller Students ‘Unify for UNIFAT’

By Nick Abele ’08 FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS, Moeller students have dedicated themselves to helping the children of Uganda, and for the past two years they have sponsored UNIFAT

School (Upper Nile Institute for Appropriate Technology).

UNIFAT is dedicated to serving children who without a safe place to go would likely be abducted by rebel armies as a part of an ongoing civil war.

As a part of the ongoing initiative, many Mentor Groups have decided to sponsor children throughout this school year. Students have pulled together to finance their childrens’ education and support their basic needs. Recently, Unified for UNIFAT, the student group organizing the initiative, encouraged Mentor Groups to create care packages to send to their child.

The care packages included pictures from Moeller and Moeller t-shirts.

In February, Moeller welcomed Denis Okema, UNIFAT alumnus and advocate for the school and its mission. At an all-school assembly, Mentor Captains were able to

meet Okema and give him the care packages. “I cannot express enough thanks for what you all have done for the children of Uganda,” he said as he addressed the student body. Connie Ring (Unified for Unifat moderator) and Eric Werner ’09 also presented Okema with a $12,486 check, this year’s fundraising total from the Men of Moeller.

On March 1, Unified for UNIFAT held its second annual Uganda Overnight experience. Okema spoke to hundreds of students from high schools around the city who attended the overnight to learn more about the social justice issues that continue to plague Uganda. “This year’s overnight really opened people’s eyes to the injustices occurring in Uganda, but it also got many people excited about helping UNIFAT and getting more involved with the initiatives we are making,” said Eric Werner ’09, student leader in Unified for UNIFAT.

Moeller Honors Teachers & Alum with Founder’s Day Award

Teacher Honored by OTR Community Housing During Catholic Schools Week, Moeller held its Founder’s Day celebration.

Following Mass, the school honored two teachers and an alum with the Founder’s Day Award for their dedication to the Marianist philosophy of education: Gustavo Benedetti (Spanish teacher), Alberto Delgado (Spanish teacher), and Dan Leugers ‘77.

8 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

ENGLISH TEACHER/ZARAGOZA DEAN Mike Moroski was recently honored by the Over-the-Rhine Community Housing organization with their Mary Johnson Award for volunteerism. He is pictured far left during the ribbon cutting ceremony of Choices Cafe, which is a community gathering place for residents in Overthe-Rhine. This project was one of the latest rehab projects spearheaded by the MACH 1 crew. Moroski is their advisor.

moellerwired ...for service, peace and justice

Moeller Students To Visit Ugandan Brother School

By Tyler Frankenberg ’08, Crusader Editor in Chief THIS JUNE, a small group of Moeller students, faculty, and parents affiliated with the dynamic service organization, Unified for UNIFAT, will undertake a ground-breaking summer service trip to the war-torn and famine-ridden Central African nation of Uganda. The trip will mark Moeller’s first visit to its Ugandan brother school, the Upper Nile Institute for Appropriate Technology (UNIFAT).

Those visiting Uganda include Billy Yates ’08, Eric Werner ’09, alumnus Will Tardio ’07, Unified for UNIFAT moderator Connie Ring, religion teacher/alumnus Paul Kindt, and Sycamore High School Unified for UNIFAT student coordinator Megan Marth. Parents Chris Tardio and Tom Marth will accompany the students on the trip.

The purpose of the trip is to strengthen Moeller’s bonds with the students at UNIFAT. This school located in Gulu, Uganda, provides a refuge for its students who would otherwise be vulnerable to abduction by factional armies waging civil war. It also provides students with the highest-quality educational opportunities available in the severely impoverished African nation.

This year, 30 Moeller Mentor Groups sponsored an individual UNIFAT student, paying the $300 that cover school tuition, meals,

clothing, and school supplies. Many Mentor Groups have also sent care packages with letters and badly needed pencils and paper, as well as photographs and Moeller T-shirts.

The members of Unified for UNIFAT will use high-definition video equipment purchased from a grant from Moeller’s Youth Philanthropy Council to make an informational video about Students of Abitimo Odongkara’s school in Northern Uganda.

UNIFAT and Uganda through which they can better inform students at Moeller and bites that often transmit deadly diseases like elsewhere in Cincinnati about the school and malaria, which is rampant in underdeveloped its needs. They hope that this video will allow African countries.

Moeller Mentor Groups to see the change Now, in only its third year, Unified for they have made through their donations and UNIFAT has become one of Moeller’s most care packages. dynamic service organizations. “This has been With proceeds from the Guitar Hero a great year for Unified for UNIFAT,” Ring tournament, Unified for UNIFAT hopes to commented. “We set a goal at the beginning purchase a mosquito net for every student at of the year to raise $40,000 for UNIFAT, UNIFAT. Mosquito nets are a cheap but effecand we anticipate that we’ll be very close to tive protection against nighttime mosquito hitting this mark.”

‘Shantytown’ Teaches About Homelessness “WE ARE NOT HERE to simulate being homeless because that would be silly,” said Mike Moroski, moderator of Shantytown and MACH 1 (Moeller Advocates for Community Housing). “We are here to learn about homelessness and be advocators for (the homeless) as well.”

From April 6-8, 30 Moeller students made and lived in cardboard shanties in front of the Brisben Center… In the end, Shantytown had a drastic effect on most of the people who participated this year. Sophomore Brendan Nelson, who attended Shantytown and is also active in MACH 1 said, “Shantytown has affected me so much in a positive way, I will never look at a homeless person the same way again.”

*Source: Crusader, Issue 4, page 3, by Mark Gunza ’10.

MOELLER • 9

THE MOELLER HOUSE SYSTEM COMES OF AGE

HOUSE

by Johanna Kremer, Editor

Pictured, to Pictured, to Camp Kern team-buildi Pictured be the Crusade of "serious"

10 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

SPIRIT

op left: The 2008-09 House leadership. op right: The Amazing Race held in May at during Junior Leadership Week begins the ng process among the new class of seniors. low: A culminating House System event is er Games, where Houses compete in a series battles of tug-of-war, dodgeball, and more.

T

his fall will mark Moeller’s full implementation of one of its most ambitious and innovative projects to date: the House System. The House System is a British-style form of student governance that Moeller introduced in the fall of 2005.

Instead of homeroom divisions separated horizontally by class year, Moeller students from all grade levels are now divided vertically into six “Houses.”

The House System is overseen by a “House Director,” and each House is led by a “House Dean,” who is responsible for the overall development of his or her House. Within each House are “Mentor Teachers,” who are faculty and staff members that are responsible for a “Mentor Group” of approximately 20 students (freshmen through senior). Students within these Mentor Groups stay together throughout their years at Moeller.

Mentor Groups gather daily, like a homeroom, only the time is extended every other day (on B-Days), and the objectives are different.

“Unlike the old tradition of homeroom, there is now time set aside for building community,” explains Carl Kremer, Dean of Students. “Teachers and students are asked to turn off their laptops and participate in a variety of activities that foster interpersonal relationships and community.

These activities can vary from the Mentor Teacher checking on grades to a group discussion to a video game tournament. But the ultimate goal is to bring the Mentor Group together.”

Overall, the House System accomplishes three important goals: 1. Builds strong interpersonal relationships among students, faculty and staff; 2. Increases pastoral care to all students, and 3. Proactively develops students’ leadership skills.

Enhancing Relationships “This has been a huge cultural change,” says House Director Ed Jamieson. “We’ve already seen positive changes, such as improved relations between divisions of classes.”

Zaragoza House Dean Bruce Nelson agrees. “I believe the best result of the House System so far has been the continued breaking down of barriers between the classes,” he says. “Each year I see more activities that include all four of the classes working and playing together.”

“The best thing about the House System is that it has brought the students and faculty closer together,” says Mike Moroski, Zaragoza House Dean. “When our relationships are tighter, our goals become more attainable. The House System has indeed softened barriers between the students, barriers that have traditionally come to be associated with ‘typical’ high school life. Additionally, it has softened the barriers between faculty, bringing them closer together over the common goal of bettering our students’ high school experience. These relationships have always existed at Moeller, but the House System gave them an organization that serves to promote them in a self-perpetuating way.”

MOELLER • 11

“I think the House System has created real opportunity for students to develop genuine relationships — social relationships with their peers and pastoral relationships with significant adults in their lives (Mentor Teachers),” says Eveslage House Dean Karen Matuszek.

Improving Pastoral Care Pillar House Dean Dan Shannon lauds the pastoral care component of the new system. “I really notice that the Mentor Teachers’ relationship with their Mentor Students has been one of ongoing growth and pastoral care,” he says. “There is a genuine love and care displayed that once set in place perpetuates because of the way the system is.”

Jim Champlin, Trinity House Dean, also believes that the pastoral care component has been a hallmark of the program. “‘Pastoral care’ means focusing on and taking an active interest in the well being and needs of each student on a more individualized basis and from a more holistic perspective,” he says.

Increasing Leadership Opportunities In addition to improving the quality of relationships, Quiroga House Dean Connie Ring believes the best thing about the House System is the proactive leadership development. “The unity that we have seen between the divisions is amazing,” says Ring, “as is the amazing number of leadership opportunities that are in existence now as a result of the House System.”

“One of the core principles of the House System is that leadership is a choice, not a position,” says Jamieson,” and the system offers more opportunities than ever for students to pursue leadership roles.”

Specifically, in the old system of student government, only one person could be president, with a limited number of additional

12 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

leadership roles. Now, there is a School Captain (1), two Vice Captains (2), and two House Captains for each House (12) who assume primary leadership positions. Then each Mentor Group elects a Mentor Captain, and there are seven Mentor Groups (42) in each House. That means there are approximately 57 leadership roles in the House System alone, and this doesn’t include the vast array of co-curricular and athletic opportunities.

Promoting School Spirit

ing event of the Marianist Cup and loved by the students.”

During the last week of school, the House System holds its Junior Leadership Week. Part of that week is spent at Camp Kern where primary team building takes place with a House competition called The Amazing Race.

“The Amazing Race is significant because it kicks off the

younger students highlight how beneficial the caring support of our upperclassmen has been and the huge difference this has made in their successful transition into high school life,” says Champlin.

The spirit of the House System is palpable, especially in several new Moeller traditions. One such tradition is winning the Marianist Cup, as Bro. Ron Luksic, S.M., Dean of Student Life, explains.

“Throughout the year, Houses vie for points through many types of competition, giving every student in the school an opportunity to participate,” he says. “Competitions range from placing on the Honor Roll to tug of war. The winning House has their name inscribed on the Marianist Cup. It becomes a matter of pride with each student in the school being involved in some way.”

Another new tradition is the Crusader Games, which are held in May. This competition involves all Houses, including Deans and

“

When our relationships are tighter, our goals become more attainable.

Mentor Teachers, in a series of fierce battles, such as a scooter race, a whipped-cream-andgummy-worm face off, a flippersand-goggles dash, and dodgeball.

“The Crusader Games were initiated by the School Captains in 2007,” said Jamieson. “The 2007 class of seniors designed this event to be inclusive and involve the participation of all the other divisions…that is the spirit of the House System! This is a culminat-

competition for the Marianist Cup with the new class of seniors competing in an event where unity and teamwork are essential!” says Jamieson.

Ensuring Successful Freshman Year Transition One of the primary beneficiaries of the House System is incoming freshmen. “A recent school-wide survey indicates that an overwhelming majority of our

”

“The students have a system when they walk in the doors freshman year that seeks to provide them with whatever they may need to be all they can,” says Moroski. “The students have gained advocates in their Mentors. They have an adult in the building that knows their name and is aware of where they are, what they do, and who they want to be.”

Strategic Planning Produces Results Each year the Deans convene and determine a theme or strategic focus for the year. “The theme is to remind ourselves what’s most important and to

and fewer detentions, said Jamieson. For example, to improve communication with the Dean of Students, the House Deans met regularly and went over detention reports. The House Deans would then report

Pictured, top left: The 2008-09 School Captains, from left — Brian Vonderhaar, School Vice Captain; Patrick Blanks, School Captain; and Sam Kornau, School Vice Captain.

Pictured, top right: Eveslage House wins the 2007-08 Marianist Cup! Pictured, bottom left: House Director Ed Jamieson tallies up the points at the end of the Crusader Games while referee Paul Kindt (far left), School Captain Tyler Frankenberg (middle left), and Crusader Games MC Doug Rosfeld await the news. Pictured, bottom right: Pillar House watch their members compete during one of the Crusader Games.

make decisions based on those things,” said Jamieson. This year the Deans dubbed “the year of pastoral care.” Their goals were to increase communication among administration and teachers, integrate more studentoriented House activities that build camaraderie, and provide students with more leadership responsibilities for planning House and Mentor Group events.

The outcome of their focus this year was quantifiable.

The Deans were able to show a noticeable improvement in attendance, an increase in the number of students on the Honor Rolls,

back the data to the appropriate Mentor Teachers.

This kind of constant communication and intervention proved effective. For example, the data on detentions showed a 16% drop in detentions compared to the same period of time last year.

“There can be many factors for this drop off,” says Jamieson. “I certainly believe that the Mentor Teachers and Deans constantly holding their guys accountable is part of it.”

In addition to pastoral care, the Deans focused on improving students’ academic achievement.

They provided Mentor Teachers

with at least one 30-minute Mentor Group dedicated to academic intervention, and the Deans also devoted House days to academic intervention, providing a 90-minute block of time for students to meet with their teachers. “The structure of the Mentor Group, combined with time allotted during M-Blocks, provides more opportunities for teachers to intervene on the behalf of students as it relates to their academic performance and progress,” says Principal Blane Collison. “It is one method of ensuring that no student ‘falls through the crack’ academically.”

To measure their progress, they monitored the number of students who made the Honor Roll. “The number is up from 1508 to 1547. This is an increase of 4%,” says Jamieson. “Once again, this can’t be attributed to the House System solely, but the numbers are pointing in the right direction.”

‘Adaptation and Change’ Challenges Moeller’s Marianist mission ensures that “adaptation and change” is part of the evolution of the school. Nevertheless, as with any major change, there have been challenges along the way. Ring said the original buy-in from the faculty and students was difficult, “but every year that challenge disappears more and more.”

Another challenge was reorganizing and integrating a diverse range of functions and activities into the House System, says Champlin. “For example, the Deans and Mentors are directly involved with tracking student academics, discipline, service hours, campus life participation, student government and leadership, pastoral ministry, retreats, co-curricular program, intramural sports, the Main Event, even major social events, such as the Prom,” he explains. “While most of these were considered when

the House System was being planned, incorporation of some functions and activities into the House System has been more evolutionary.”

“Of course, any change worth making, whether personal or professional, is not seamless or comfortable,” said Moroski.

“How-ever, there are no obstacles, only challenges and opportunities, and I believe the Moeller Family has weathered the eye of the storm and is moving steadily into the future.”

Bro. Ron recalls how far this program has evolved. “When our first exchange students to Australia in 2002 reported on their experience, they talked about the ‘House System.’ Right away I felt it was the perfect compliment to the Marianist Characteristics of Education,” he says. “Now, starting our fourth year of the program, it has exceeded my expectations.

I am confident it will continue to grow.”

House System Revolution!

The House System is only three years old, yet it has been a revolutionary school-wide change.

Based on its current progress, the future looks bright. “There really is no better way to oversee the development of the students,” says Jamieson. “The House System places two significant adults in the life of every student.

Amazingly, it works both ways.

I think a number of our faculty have benefited from more interaction with students.”

“The House System’s potential has not even yet been tapped,” says Moroski. “I foresee a day when the Mentors and Deans fine tune their skills so that we truly are leaving no student unnoticed. I can see a time when all our students at least see their potential through an adult’s eyes and understand that there are resources available for them to reach that potential.” M

MOELLER • 13

Preparing for Our 50th anniversary is only two years away, yet consider how far we’ve come.

’60s ’70s ’80s The first freshmen walked through the doors of Moeller in the fall of 1960. Within one brief decade they would begin to build a national reputation for athletic excellence.

During the ’70s, as Moeller’s football fame was on the rise, the school was also on the leading edge of curricular innovation, successfully launching the School-WithinA-School and Humanities programs.

Moeller’s first freshman class pictured above.

14 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

One decade later, the administration founded Moeller’s first external advisory board, the Education Commission, who in turn formulated the school’s first long-range plan. Following their recommendations, Moeller began a decade of intensive fiscal growth, creating the Alumni & Development Office, Annual Fund, and Main Event Charity Auction.

In 2002, IBM selected Moeller as one of four schools in the nation with outstanding technology programs.

Greatness ’90s

The initiatives of the ’80s provided a solid foundation for the school’s second strategic planning process one decade later called “The Crusade for Moeller.” During this campaign, approximately 200 people participated in a thorough evaluation of the school’s needs, called the CASE Review Process. The result led to an unprecedented evolution in the ’90s, and Moeller’s most ambitious dreams to date were initiated: the student laptop program; numerous capital improvement projects, such as the state-of-the-art science and technology wing, the O’Connor Center for Wrestling & Weight Training, and the Brisben Educational Center; and the expansion of the Pastoral Ministry Program. Because of the school’s ministry and mission initiatives during this decade, the Catholic Campus Ministry Association named Moeller one of the top 10 high school programs in the nation.

by Blane Collison, Principal

Pictured above: Moeller’s Main Event Charity Auction was established in the ’80s.

and beyond...

THE NEW MILLENIUM Now, as we approach 2010, we can look at Moeller’s fifth decade and begin to celebrate a school that is becoming fully realized in multiple areas of educational excellence. While our football program first led us to national prominence, our athletic program now is multidimensional, with numerous sports being recognized at the local, state, and national level.

Academically, we have always been committed to serving the whole person — mind, body, heart, and spirit. This vision of a Marianist education is fully embodied in the five Last year Moeller was awarded the Characteristics of a Marianist prestigious GCL All Sports Trophy for Education or CMEs. Our implethe stellar performances of its athletic programs. Four sports earned state mentation of these characterischampionship honors: basketball, tics, which form the core of our swimming, wrestling, and volleyball. culture, is the primary reason for our continued success. During this decade we were recognized by the Society of Mary as being “a Father Michael Leshney came to Moeller in premier leader in Catholic education in the nation.”

1991 and spent nearly a decade enriching the school’s Pastoral Ministry Program.

MOELLER • 15

Because “adaptation and change” is one of our core CMEs, we have led the way in implementing technology throughout our curricular programs. In doing so, we have been recognized as a leader in technology education

by IBM. This fall we continue our commitment to constant improvement, and our freshmen will be receiving state-of-the-art tablet computers.

While the ‘90s was a period of exceptional growth in Moeller’s Pastoral Ministry programs, with the innovation of the House System, implemented in the fall

of 2005, we now have a structure that enables the pastoral care of

Bro. Ron Luksic, S.M., initiated Moeller’s connection with Corryville Catholic Elementary in 1992. Since that time the program has grown to include the Big Brothers mentoring program, the Little Buddies tutoring program, and Christmas on Campus, which involves a Christmas Mass celebration, fun & games, a pizza party, and a special appearance by Santa.

Moeller’s Pastoral Ministry Program Top 10 in Nation IN THE LATE 1990s, the Catholic Campus Ministry Association named Moeller’s Pastoral Ministry Program one of the top 10 high school programs in the nation.

Social Studies Teacher Bob Tull said, “I think the ’90s saw tremendous change in the emphasis Pastoral Ministry played in the school: Father Mike, Kairos, mission trips, the change in Fall Raffle, the Corryville connection, and more. It was interesting to watch the Pastoral Ministry Board become as popular as Student Government.”

16 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

every student. Each student is now part of a Mentor “Family” for four years. During this time, he has an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships, while also enhancing his academic education. Research shows that learning to work well with others will be a key component in our students’ lives. These Mentor Groups help ensure that our faculty and staff have a better understanding of our students’ personal needs.

The physical plant improvements that were initiated in the ’90s have continued through this decade. Most recently, we have completed the Gerry Faust Athletic Complex, which will benefit our students and programs in numerous ways. (See page 20 for more information.)

And more dreams are in the works. A state-of-the-art training facility will be completed in August to honor Dr. Ed Kremchek’s 27 years of dedication as Moeller’s team doctor.

This facility will provide our students with the very best care for their athletic injuries and physical therapy rehabilitation needs. We will hold a dedication ceremony on Saturday, August 9, to celebrate these two new projects.

You are cordially invited to join us as we officially dedicate the

Dr. Ed Kremchek Training Facility and the Gerry Faust Athletic Complex.

TOP 10 IN THE NATION As we approach this golden milestone in Moeller’s history, we can honestly say we are on the cusp of greatness: We are now poised to take every fundamental area of operation to the next level. Our ultimate vision is to be recognized as one of the top 10 Catholic high schools in the nation. And it is within our reach.

The Characteristics of a Marianist Education The Key to Moeller’s Success

In the summer of 2000, Moeller received permission to construct the south wing, pictured above.

In March, we launched a strategic planning process that will ensure our vision becomes a reality. Working with CEO Frank Donaldson of the Institute of School & Parish Development, we are embarking on our most ambitious campaign to date. Our goal is to engage as many people as possible — alumni, current and past parents, faculty and staff, and friends of Moeller — to examine every facet of our operation. Once we’ve identified our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges (known as the SWOT process), we plan to collaborate to create a strategy

that will address each area in a comprehensive approach to make sure our vision becomes a reality.

You are invited to join us in this process. We will be meeting throughout the summer.

Please contact me at BCollison@Moeller.org to offer your feedback, your support, or your participation in this collaborative endeavor. We also ask for your prayers for all of us as we prepare Moeller for greatness: May the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be glorified in all things through the Immaculate Virgin Mary. M

EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH shows that establishing strong, positive, collaborative school cultures is the most important key to a school’s success (Bower, 1966; Deal & Peterson, 1999).

Moeller’s culture is grounded in the Society of Mary — or Marianist — vision of education, called the “Marianist Charism,” originally articulated by the founder of the Marianists, the Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, in the early 1800s.

By the 1990s, the number of vowed religious educators was dwindling, so the Society of Mary set up a national committee comprised of Marianists around the world to develop a program that would enable lay administrators, teachers, and staff members to proactively implement the Marianist vision of education. The end result of their efforts was the development of the Characteristics of a Marianist Education (CMEs). The CMEs simplified the Marianist Charism to the following five components, articulating the core values of a Marianist culture: CHARACTERISTICS OF A MARIANIST EDUCATION 1. Educate for faith formation 2. Provide a quality, integral education 3. Educate in the Family Spirit 4. Educate for service, peace, and justice 5. Educate for adaption and change During the following decade, an evaluation team from the Society of Mary reviewed Moeller’s progress in implementing the CMEs program. In their final report, they concluded, “Archbishop Moeller High School is a premier leader in Catholic education in the nation. A strong, clear mission and heritage guides (the school)… The CME are strong, living characteristics that permeate every activity. Staff, students, parents, and alums value the Marianist Charism and affirm its importance… We commend the Moeller Family for their commitment to excellence in Catholic education — a commitment energized by the Marianist Charism.”

MOELLER • 17

A Record Finish T Principal Blane Collison with Honorary Chairs, Barb and Carl Reisen, enjoying the success of the Main Event.

Pictured right: Trinity House Dean Jim Champlin shows off his Moeller Derby House Horse.

18 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

THE “RUN FOR THE RACES” Derby-themed Main Event Charity Auction was a winner! Once more Moeller’s premier event netted a record profit, raising more than $263K for student programs, tuition assistance, classroom desks and projectors, and facility renovations.

“I’m amazed and grateful for the generosity shown by the Moeller Family,” said Principal Blane Collison,” especially given our current economy.”

Auctioneer Lance Walker agrees that Moeller “beat the odds” in this economic slowdown. “That’s a huge amount,” he said, “but it’s also the quality of the evening that counts. Yours has an elegance and pizzazz. I travel all around the country doing these events, and I do a lot for private schools. Yours is one of the best.”

Collison attributes the auction’s success to the leadership of the event’s director, Debbie Geiger. “Debbie has an extraordinary understanding of what we’re trying to accomplish with this event,” he said. “This isn’t just a fundraiser — it’s a way for the Moeller community to come together to celebrate the school and to support a cause we all believe in. It’s a way to build relationships and connections in the spirit of our Marianist principles. Her enthusiasm and energy inspires so many diverse members of the Moeller Family to get involved — from parents to students to faculty & staff to alumni — she —Mark Nugent ’09, one of the engages and embraces them all in a meaningful many student volunteers. way. Debbie has a way of bringing out the best in others and allowing them to share their gifts.

“The Main Event was a lot of fun, and it felt great to raise money for the school,”

Moeller students had fun dressed as jockeys while they volunteered their time to the Main Event.

Winner’s Circle

PIctured to left: Ted Catino ’79 helps support Moeller with his top bid for graduation seats.

DERBY GRAND PRIZE WINNERS $9K Tuition Raffle Winners Keith & Kim McCluskey Key Club Winners (Diamond Necklace & Earrings from Welling Jewelers) Tom & Char McGill Car in the Live Auction Winners Paul Clermont & Lisa Wolf $36,700 Education Enhancement Fund Winners and $263,000 Net Profit Winners Moeller Students!

Pictured above: Moeller mom Sue Leyman accepts a rose from senior Troy Stehlin during the Live Auction Romance Package.

Pictured to left: Guests David and Stacey Fuller. Stacey won the Hat Contest.

Grand Raffle Kentucky Derby Trip Bobby Henderson

HOUSE CAPTAIN AWARDS

Derby Main Event a Winner For an entire year, Debbie has put her heart and soul into every aspect of this endeavor…and it shows.”

Geiger, on the other hand, attributes the event’s success to the experience and expertise of her massive army of support. “Our volunteers have been incredible,” she said. “Patty Wilken, my administrative assistant, was invaluable.

We couldn’t pull this off without her dedication. Carl and Barbara Reisen

(Honorary Chairs) worked tirelessly, and the parent House Captains, Executive Board, and committee chairs really stepped up and worked like a team.

Also, the longevity and efficiency of our volunteer staff made everything easier.

Almost everyone had two to four years of experience, and it showed from set up to shut down. Altogether, it was a great example of the Moeller Spirit in action.” M

Donation Award Quiroga House Captains Curt & Linda Curran Tom & Liz Knipper Participation Award Zaragoza House Captains Mike & Karen Haggerty Dean & Jill Yates Spirit Award Eveslage House Captains Bob & Judy Schmitt Leadership Award Pillar House Captains Jim & Cathy Holmes Patrick & Laurie Joyce Achievement Award Zehler House Captains Scott & Laura Williams Chris & Mary Morrison Sponsorship Award Trinity House Captains Dave & Peggy Schlueter SPECIAL RECOGNITION Beyond the Call of Duty Award Betsy Morgan, Curt Curran, & Dean Yates MOELLER • 19

Field of Dreams Becomes

I

by Barry Borman ’64, Athletic Director

20 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

IN EARLY APRIL a former Moeller football coach of over 25 years who now lives in Florida was visiting his family in Cincinnati and decided to stop by to see the new fields.

As he stood looking out at the fields, a tear began to stream down his cheek. The Gerry Faust Athletic Complex is the fulfillment of a dream of almost every coach who has ever coached his team on the back fields or track.

It is as if all the hard work, sweat and pain that were spent over the past 48 years by our coaches and players have built these fields. I don’t know if fields can embody a spirit, but there have been several people already who have expressed that they feel the tradition and the spirit of the past when they are on

the fields. How great would it be if every future Crusader who plays on those fields could be inspired by that spirit.

Teachers and coaches are hailing the completion of Moeller’s back field project. “I cannot possibly express how thankful I am to now have a facility where our track and field athletes can work out every day in conditions that will provide them even more opportunity to continue to be one of the best programs in the city,” said Kevin Kohls, head varsity track and field coach. “We now have a facility where we can practice immediately after school... We are able to walk out our back door and onto the track any day of the week, which gives us great flexibility for ALL of our

THE

Reality

Gerry Faust

ATHLETIC Complex Drive behind Moeller and the first thing that will catch your eye is a bright yellow goal post, a look that is quite different than the original metal standard. But walking up the steps and through the gates, more colors abound — the brilliant green turf surface of two playing fields, the white stripes outlining the competition areas, and the vivid blue and gold of the Moeller “M.” The finest high school athletic program in the nation now has a facility that matches its reputation. Its use is underway, so take a look!

Dedication Ceremony of New Facilities

The DeTemple brothers (from left, Tommy ’07, John ’05, and Willie ’03) check out the progress of Moeller’s “field of dreams” while they were home during Thanksgiving last fall.

athletes: sprinters, hurdlers, jumpers, throwers and distance runners.”

Mike Cameron, PE teacher and former head varsity baseball coach, lauds the educational and safety benefits to the students: “No more cancellations of activities because of wet muddy fields. We now have a playing surface that will reduce the risk of injury, and fields that will always be properly lined and marked,” he said. “The new fields and track will also serve as motivator for the students to participate in physical education sports and activities.”

Tim Held, head varsity baseball coach, believes the fields have already given his program an advantage. “There have been numer-

ous times this spring where all the baseball fields in the area have been too wet to practice on, but because of our turf surface we have been able to go outside and have a full infield and outfield to work on,” he said.

“I feel the program is ahead of where it has been in the past because of all the extra work we have been able to get in by utilizing the back fields.”

Lacrosse and soccer are reaping the same benefits, and our youth sports camps will put these fields to good use all summer as well.

This project greatly enhances the Moeller Athletic Tradition for our current and future Men of Moeller, and we are already experiencing the results. M

You are cordially invited to attend the formal dedication of the Gerry Faust Athletic Complex and the Dr. Ed Kremchek Training Facility on Saturday, August 9, 2 PM, 2008.

TIMELINE OF EVENTS: 10:00 AM – Moeller vs. Oak Hills JV Football Scrimmage 12:00 PM – Moeller vs. Oaks Hills Varsity Football Scrimmage & Moeller vs. Opponent Varsity Soccer Scrimmage 2:00 PM – Official Dedication of the Gerry Faust Athletic Complex & the Dr. Ed Kremchek Training Facility 3:00 PM – Football Meet the Team

MOELLER • 21

crusaderconnection LET’S FACE IT… “Cincinnati Moeller” is arguably the most well-known high school in the country. That is quite an accomplishment, given the fact we are not even 50 years old as an institution. And we got that recognition after only 15 or so years of being in existence. Sure, football got us on the national map, but it was the dedication, commitment to excellence, and the belief in the Marianist philosophy of education of all the people back in 1960 — faculty and staff, parents, and students — who laid the foundation for that success to happen. Not only the success and recognition that came in 1975, but the success and recognition we enjoy today.

In 1975, football gave us a reason to come together as a school and develop a sense of family pride for what we accomplished. Today, we have even more reasons to be proud. From great academics, pastoral ministry programs, and technology initiatives to success in all sports, Moeller is even more worthy of being the most well-known high school in the country, especially as we remain true to our mission as an inclusive Catholic school in the Marianist tradition.

So, as we look toward 2010, we do it with a tremendous sense of pride.

Regardless if you are an alum, parent, student, faculty or staff member, be dedicated, commit to excellence for Moeller, and believe in the Marianist philosophy of education. Be a part of laying the foundation for the next 50 years of success.

It will not be without its challenges — we still have capital improvements that need to be funded, and we have to keep tuition reasonable for all families and have assistance available for those who can’t afford a Moeller education — but with everyone’s help, those challenges can be overcome. And when they are, you’ll be even more proud of Moeller, because you played a role in making it happen.

I informed Blane that I will not be renewing my contract next year, so I can refocus my attention on my executive search and consulting business. Looking back to when I was a student here, I wish I would have made more of a conscious effort to leave Moeller a better place. Over the past several years, because of your support and passion for the school, Moeller is a better place for our sons, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done, and for what I know you will continue to do, for “Cincinnati Moeller.”

Onward go, Crusaders!

MOELLER 2008 REUNION WEEKEND October 3 & 4

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH Golf Outing, Mass, & Reunion

22 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

WE MEN OF MOELLER HIGH, Crusaders till we die…

Profound words and a reminder that still today, we are all part of Moeller High School.

Over time, things have changed, and many of you have impacted these changes through your time, talents, and treasure. I thank you and encourage your continued support.

Great things are happening at Moeller, and the Moeller Men’s Club (MMC) is an active part. I invite you all to be part of the MMC. Your participation is welcomed. MMC activities occur throughout the year. Look for the upcoming summer and fall events on our website (www.Moeller.org). Come join us.

It is never too late to get involved!

God Bless,

Robert G. Winterman ’80 Men’s Club President P.S. Our next reunion will be October 3-4.

Call Ginny Bauer, Associate Development Director, for more details (791-1680, ext. 1300).

Chris Albrecht ’77, Director of Development

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3RD Alumni Tailgate Party and Football Game

From the Alumni President

Classes of 68, 73, 78, 83, 88, 93, 98, 03

crusaderconnection Moeller’s 2008 Stag ON WEDNESDAY, February 20, well over 500 Men of Moeller enjoyed a “Guy’s Night Out” at the Annual Sports Stag. The evening began with a cocktail reception in the Activities Center and moved into the new gym for dinner. The program started with a tribute to the late Harry Oliver ’78, who passed away in August, 2007 after a courageous battle with cancer. Although known for his last second, game-winning 51 yard field goal in the Notre Dame — Michigan game in 1980, Harry was a true Man of Moeller — a man deeply rooted in his family and his faith. Harry received a standing ovation after a video replay was shown of “the kick.”

To show what kind of programs benefit from the proceeds generated from Men’s Club events, another video was shown that recently aired on Fox19’s Teen Driver Safety segment concerning the “Buckle Up for Bessey” keychain program. Events like the Stag not only support and impact the school, but hopefully will impact the lives of our young men.

Pictured above: Featured After the Hall of Fame Class of 2008 was introduced, Master of Speaker Brian Kelly.

Ceremonies Dan Ledford took control of the evening and entertained the crowd, using his dry wit to turn the Stag into a Moeller version of the old “Friar’s Club Roast.” The Men’s Club, Basketball Coach Carl Kremer, and of course, our speakers, were not left unscathed.

Our Guest Speaker, former Bengal and current network broadcaster and Moeller dad, Solomon Wilcots, did a remarkable job tying in the issues troubling pro sports today with the positive influence Moeller has on the development of young men. Solly was genuine in his praise for Moeller and how much he and his son are enjoying their Moeller experience.

Brian Kelly, Head Football Coach of the U.C. Bearcats, picked up where Solomon left off by explaining what they are trying to establish in terms of the direction of the football program and what he looks for in a recruit — and that Moeller is a great place to find those student athletes.

Thanks go to Ginny Bauer, Chris Anne Gaier, Joe Hodge, Phil Kreiner, and all the Men’s Club volunteers who made the evening a success.

Moeller’s 2008 Hall of Fame

KEN HANSEN ’72 Wrestling & Football

RICK BELL ’97 Baseball & Basketball

PAT KENNEDY ’97 Lacrosse

By Chris Albrecht ’77, Director of Development

GREG ULLAND ’97 Volleyball

MARCUS MATT BLANKS ’01 SYLVESTER ’01 Football & Wrestling Basketball

THE MEN’S CLUB INDUCTED the alumni pictured above into Moeller’s Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place in February at a luncheon at Montgomery Inn. In addition, Mike Habegger ’88 received a new award: The Moeller Student Service Award. During his four years at Moeller, Habeggar served his classmates and fellow students as a student manager in three sports — never taking a season off — and he continues to be a tremendous supporter of Moeller athletics to this day. The Men’s Club will continue to include this new award in their Hall of Fame presentations. The award will recognize former student managers who put forth the same dedication and effort demonstrated by Mike Habegger.

MOELLER • 23

tracking 1960s Lawrence Michael Heglin (’64) received a BS from the University of Dayton and an MBA from Xavier University. He currently lives in Florida with his wife, Suzanne (Hatcher), after spending time in California and Michigan.

The couple recently celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary.

Mikeheglin@aol.com Don Apking (’68) is selfemployed as a consultant for Water & Wastewater Industry and works with government regulations and registrations (USPEA and FDA). He and his wife, Julie, married in 1980 and had a son, Brad, a year later. Brad graduated from Auburn University in 2003 and married Sarah in 2006. djapking@bellsouth.net

SEC registered public offerings, mergers, and acquisitions.

Paul Keels (’75) recently was named the Ohio Sportscasters of 2007 by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association.

Steve Melink (’76), founder and president of Melink Corp., owns the first building in Ohio that has become a showpiece for energy efficiency. The building achieved a gold certification under the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Utility costs for the building are about 67 cents per square foot, while the national average is approximately two dollars. He has also

he commanded a squadron on the USS Abraham Lincoln deployed to the Pacific and Persian Gulf, and he spent four months during that time flying over Iraq. From 20002004 McCarthy worked with Navy staff in the Pentagon. His office was destroyed during the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon. Since 2004 he’s been running the Department of Defense Antiterrorism Programs deploying antiterrorism teams around the world. He is retiring from the Navy this year and is going to work for the Department of Homeland Security running similar antiterrorism programs. He and his wife, Pam, married in 1989, and they have three girls: Jessica, Katelyn, and Meghan. ktmac82@aol.com

weddings

1970s Arnie Engle (’73) recently ran for Ohio House 54th district and lost, but he said he will consider running again in 2010.

He currently serves on the Fairfield Board of Education and is up for re-election next year. Engle and his wife, Susan, have a son, Josh, and live in Fairfield. aeswjosh@fuse.net

Moeller extends its best wishes to the following graduates and faculty who have/will “tie the knot”: developed a prototype for “solar power in an hour” in hopes of providing the consumer with a solar power option.

Dan Neyer (’77) was featured in Cincinnati.com’s Business Tipsheet on December 14, 2007.

It touted the growth of Neyer Properties as being “far from done.” One of his firm’s many developments is Keystone Parke in Evanston.

(See picture above.)

Jay Rains (’74) was named the 2007 Community Champion by the Hall of Champions for his work to bring the 2008 US Open to Torrey Pines. Rains is a partner for DLA Piper. His focus is corporate finance, venture capital, strategic partnering, 24 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

Kevin McCarthy (’78) graduated from the US Naval Academy and received his commission as an Ensign in 1982. He graduated from flight school in 1984 and spent the next 16 years flying off Navy aircraft carriers deployed to the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Pacific, and Persian Gulf. From 1998-2000

Rebekah and Andy Groeber (’98) married in August 2006.

(See picture to left.)

Amanda Hughes and Mark Chalifoux (’03) will marry May 16, 2009, in Cincinnati, OH.

bir ths Congratulations to the following couples: Wendy Ungard and Scott Ostholthoff (’92), daughter, Elle, 2/15/08.

Colleen and John Bodin (’96), daughter, Winifred Mae, November 30, 2007. (Photo) Elizabeth and Erick Geers (’98), son, Sean Michael, 8/25/07.

tracking Dino Richardson (’78) attended college at Lake Forest, IL, then pursued a business degree at San Diego State University.

He has been an on-air DJ and radio announcer on three stations in two different markets and is currently the marketing manager with the US Department of Defense.

He and his wife, Susan, have two sons (Jordan and Parker) and are sending them to Catholic school, “so they can get the same educational benefits I received,” he says. dprsmr@cox.net (See picture to left.)

Tom Schroeder (’78) owns Trinity Printing Co., started in 1995. He has been married to Patty for 18 years, and they have two children: Jay (16) and Julia (13). trinityprinting@fuse.net

198 0s Larry Kuhlman (’81), co-owner of Bramkamp Printing Co. Inc., has relocated his business to Blue Ash. The move allows Bramkamp to triple its size and continue to grow and explore additional opportunities in the printing industry. He and his wife, Karen, have three children and live in Loveland.

Bob Browning (’83) received a bachelor’s degree in music from CCM and a master’s degree in orchestral conducting from James Madison University.

Browning taught in Indiana and Tennessee before returning to Moeller in 1994 to lead his alma mater’s band programs. In 2002 he was listed in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.

Browning has two children: Ashley (8) and Elizabeth (6). (See picture to right.)

Doug Giebel (’83) graduated from Miami University in ’87 and moved to Cleveland in ’93.

He currently works for HBM Architects, LLC, and is a registered architect designing public libraries. He married Eva Vitale in 1996, and they have two boys, Dominic and Anthony. The family lives in Lakewood, OH, and Giebel coaches his sons’ football, baseball, and basketball teams.

Larry A. Ray (’83) remarried last March and currently lives in Sykesville, MD, with his wife, Priscilla, and their children: Nathen Ray (18), Lindsey Ray (16), Justice Guthrie (13), and Mackenzie Guthrie (11). He spent 12 years (1987-1998) in the US Air Force doing satellite signals analysis at the National Security Agency (NSA) in Ft. Meade, MD, and Misawa Air Force Base in Northern Japan. Ray provided support for the war in Iraq. He also played on three military world championship softball teams and was named Most Valuable Player twice. For the last 10 years he has been working as a software test engineer for the CIA and NSA in Maryland.

Larryray13@hotmail.com

James Steele (’83) earned a master’s degree and is executive director of Halom House, Inc. He says he is “still rocking and rolling” every weekend with his new band The Vibe (www.vibeband.com), which features three other Moe grads. He and his wife, Christine, have four children: Kelcey, Cassidy, Cian, and Aine. jamiesteele@fuse.net (See picture above.)

Steve Ventre (’83) graduated from Wittenberg in 1987 with a bachelor’s degree in history and economics, then attended law school for one year before he realized that “neither the law nor additional school held much interest,” he says. So Ventre returned home and landed a job at Cincinnati Financial Corp where he is director of project management and just celebrated his 20th employment anniversary.

In his spare time, Ventre serves on his fraternity alumni board, plays golf, and spends time with family and friends. He has been married to Kathy for 18 years, and they have three children: Corinne (15), Anna (12), and Joe (9). They are parishioners at St. Margaret of York in Loveland. steve_ventre@cinfin.com John Hartman (’84) was featured in the 2008 Super Bowl Pepsi commercial. (He was the one carrying the large flat screen TV.) Bob Puthoff (’85) is a professional storyteller and voice actor in the Cincinnati area. He is self employed as Bob the Voice Actor (www.bobthevoiceactor.com) and is married to Sangeete Nayak. bobputhoff@aim.com

Nicholas Dopp (’87) is a clinical applications manager with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and a captain with the Ohio Army National Guard (19 years). He and his wife, Emily, have two children: Nicole (3) and Louis (1). doppn@ccf.org Timothy O’Brien (’87) is a partner in the creation of E-velocity, which specializes in expert integration services for Cisco Systems.

The company works in partnership to configure and service networking communication systems.

New technology makes it possible for companies to use their computer system to link distant offices. The company is listed by Inc. magazine as number 563 on its list of the 5,000 fastest-growing independent companies in the US.

Jeffrey Pawlow (’87) received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Creighton University. In 1999 he formed The Growth Partnership Inc., and it has grown to be the only full-service, multidisciplinary consulting firm serving the accounting profession. He currently is the chief executive officer and managing shareholder of the company, and he was recognized as one of Accounting Today’s Top 100 Most Influential People in the accounting profession. Pawlow is the second youngest member of this prestigious group. He has been named one of Inside Public Accounting’s “Most Recommended Consultants” since 2004.

Pawlow coaches youth baseball, manages youth hockey, and is involved at St. Teresa Catholic Church.

He and his wife have four children and reside in Swansea, IL. (See picture above.)

MOELLER • 25

tracking Greg Huntington (’88) earned an economics degree and played college football at Penn State (a childhood dream) with Moeller classmate Bill Spoor. Huntington was drafted by the Washington Redskins in the 5th round of the 1993 draft and played six seasons in the NFL with three different teams (1993-1999): Redskins, Jaguars, and Bears. During that time, he fulfilled a childhood dream of playing with the Steelers in their training camp. In 2000, he went into full-time Christian ministry, and a year later he married Tara. They had their first child, Phoebe, in 2002 and their second child, Kate, in 2007. Currently, Huntington is pursuing a master’s degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. The family lives in Tallahassee, FL. gregcfc@aol.com Andy Kamp (’88) earned an A.A. in communications from the University of Cincinnati, then worked for various companies as a DJ and voice-over specialist. (He still freelances from time to time.)

Now Kamp works with GSI Commerce Solutions in Richwood, KY, the world’s largest Internetbased order fulfillment company, where he manages outbound operations. He lives in Erlanger, KY, with his fiancée, Tracy, and their five children: Ciara (14), Taylor (10), Delaney (9), Cody (7), and Brianna (6).

Robert Medl (’88) attended the University of Dayton from 19841988, then went to Binghamton University in Binghamton, NY, for a master’s degree in cognitive psychology. During that time, he began interning at IBM in San Jose, CA, and was hired in 1992 as a human factors engineer. He stayed at IBM through 2000 and worked on a variety of software products. One of the data mining products that he worked on yielded four US patents on which he was the primary inventor. In 2000, he left IBM and joined eGain in Sunnyvale, CA, as senior usability engineer responsible for the usability of the company’s entire software portfolio. In 2005, he joined Microsoft in Redmond, WA, and stayed there until 2007, when he relocated to the Greater Cincinnati area to be closer to his family. Currently he is self employed as the owner of the Online Casino Gambling Directory, a website dedicated to providing information about online gaming. robertmedl@robertmedl.com Jeff S. Vollmer (’88) works for Smith Barney as a financial advisor. He and his wife, Tiffany, have two children: Jake (4) and Max (8 months). jeffrey.s.vollmer@smithbarney.com

Daniel James Williamson (’88) works for Ohio National Financial Services as a BOLI proposal and administration technician.

He married Brenda Lee, and they have two boys: Daniel James Jr. (4) and Ryan Robert (1). He says that he is “enjoying life on the farm, peaceful and quiet, except for the two wonderful boys.” leinad70@aol.com (See picture to left.)

26 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

19 9 0 s Pete Rhoda (’90) is the development director for the Community Foundation of Bloomington & Monroe Company. He and his wife, Jennifer, live in Bloomington, IN, and they had a baby boy in May.

Justin Molloy (’96) received a master’s degree in architecture from Columbia University in 2003. Four years later, he and his wife Rachel started HYALINE LLC, a boutique design and technology studio that specializes in motion, Web, & identity design, and technology, strategy, & process consulting. The couple married in December 2005 on the island of Oahu, Hawaii (Rachel’s hometown), and recently relocated to Cincinnati after living in Seattle and New York City. us@hyalinestudios.com (See picture above.)

Greg Schnittger ('92) graduated from the University of Dayton in 1997 and works as a project engineer for Motoman, Inc. in Dayton.

Last May he married Janet, a graduate of the University of Maryland who is currently studying graphic design at Sinclair College. They live in Oakwood, OH. (See picture above.)

JD Heilmann (‘93) works for Xavier University as a recruiting coordinator/assistant coach and lives in Batavia with his wife, Raegene, and their two children: Dax and Ryley. heilman@xavier.edu Daniel Paul Gallagher (’94) is a graduate of The Ohio State University and the Christ Hospital School of Nursing. He works as a registered nurse at Christ Hospital and is attending the University of Cincinnati. Gallagher married Ann Marie Sherman in May 2008.

Andrew Hueber (’97) is a graduate of Ohio University with a degree in international business and communications. He is currently building custom homes in the Cincinnati area as vice president of John Hueber Homes. He and his brother Marc (Moeller Class of ’99) are currently on the forefront of the green/sustainable home building movement in Cincinnati, achieving LEED for Homes SILVER designation for their Hyde Park infill projects.

Andy Groeber (’98) is a 2005 graduate of Wright State University and currently works for American Honda Motor Company as a national accounts coordinator for the Power Equipment Division.

He and his wife, Rebekah, are living in Atlanta and expecting their first child.

Andrew_groeber@ahm.honda.com Michael Kaiser (’98) is self employed as partner/owner in Kaiser Siding & Roofing CCC. bgsukaiser@yahoo.com

tracking Sean Scallar (’98) graduated from Indiana University and spent the next five years living in Boston managing food and beverage operations for Marriott. He recently moved to Charlotte, NC, to take a sales role for Marriott International. sscallan1979@yahoo.com

Dan Shannon (’98) graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY, in 2006. He currently works as garde mangé under the direction of Dan Barber, owner/chef of Blue Hill at Stone Barn restaurant in Sleepy Hollow, NY. Blue Hill is ranked #15 as a must-eat restaurant in North America and Europe and ranked #38 in the Top 1000 Things To Do Before You Die book.

In the kitchen, Shannon’s job includes prepping all the vegetables and creating sauces and stocks.

His job on the property includes gathering produce from the 22,000 sq. ft. greenhouse as well as raising the livestock (lamb, pigs, chickens) used by the restaurant.

(See picture below.)

Dan Shannon is pictured (from left) with his Aunt Margaret, his mother Lily, and his father Dan (who is the Pillar House Dean and a biology teacher at Moeller).

Michael Currin (’99) graduated from the University of Dayton with a degree in finance and accounting and is working on an MBA from Xavier University. He currently is a finance manager at Luxottica Group. Currin is engaged to Michelle Schindler, and they have planned a November 8 wedding.

2000s Tony Buyniski (’00) received his master’s in education with a focus in guidance and counseling in January 2007. He currently works with the University of Illinois football team as an assistant video coordinator.

Dave Candy (’02) graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in April with a doctorate in physical therapy and is now working at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton. He was the bantamweight class winner at the 2007 NPC National Bodybuilding Championships, thus earning IFBB professional status. This followed a 2nd place finish at the 2007 USA Championships, a 3rd place finish in the lightweight class at the 2006 Nationals, and a 2nd place finish in the bantamweight class at the 2005 Nationals. He is engaged to Alison Vernon, and they plan a December 6 wedding in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

Mark Chalifoux (’03) graduated from Ohio University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and has been working at The Community Press since last August after turning down a job at the Arizona Daily-Star (as an online producer). He is also a talk show producer for Clear Channel (1530 and 700 WLW) and writes NFL game blogs for

Sportsillustrated.com. Chalifoux keeps up his sports column for The Athens News and has done freelance work for espn.com, si.com, The Cincinnati Enquirer, The Baltimore Sun, and The Athens News. mchalifoux@communitypress.com Greg Kelly (’03) played two years NCAA DI volleyball at St. Francis University, then coached two years. He returned to his alma mater in the fall of 2007 and is a member of Moeller’s English Department. GKelly@Moeller.org

Michael E. Ranochak (’03) attended the Maryland Institute College of Art and studied graphic design.

During that time he participated in a three-week study abroad course at the Osaka University of Arts and The Korean National University of Arts. While in Japan he was awarded the Tashi Town Cultural Award by the mayor of Tashi Town for his exemplary work on a community service project. Ranochak earned his bachelor’s degree in three-and-a-half years, and he obtained a job as a designer before graduation working for his current employer, Trahan Burden Charles (TBC), an advertising agency and public relations firm.

Some of his design accounts include Smart Balance, Yellow Book, Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Gaylord Hotels, Singapore Tourism, and Maryland Lottery. mranochak@gmail.com

Mike Belza (’04) received two awards from the Farmer School of Business at Miami University Honors Day ceremony: the J. Belden Dennison Award (presented by faculty to recognize outstanding scholastic achievement) and the Delta Gamma Pi Award (given to the senior with the highest GPA in the Farmer School of Business). He will be receiving summa cum laude honors at Miami University’s 2008 commencement ceremony.

(See picture above.)

Matt Krill (’04) is the community service chairman for Phi Delta Theta at Ashland University. His fraternity was recently honored by APPHA (the advocate of not-forprofit services for older Ohioans) with the Volunteer Service Group Award for exemplary service, commitment, and positive promotion of older Ohioans and those serving them.

Gary Motz (’04) & Matt Meyer (’04) became lay Marianists in a ceremony at the Immaculate Conception Chapel at the University of Dayton. They are part of a group of 17 students who have formed a new community named “the Embers.” Both

MOELLER • 27

reunions

Motz and Meyer completed a semester of formal formation that included meeting for two hours each week, listening to a variety of Marianists, discussing books on the founders, reading documents from the international Marianist lay communities, building community with one another, and attending a retreat. An integral part of the formation was time spent with two vowed religious and one of the Marianist educational associates.

The Fall of 2008 reunion will be for the: Class of 2003-5 Year Class of 1998-10 Year Class of 1993-15 Year Class of 1988-20 Year Class of 1983-25 Year Class of 1978-30 Year Class of 1973-35 Year Class of 1968-40 Year

Tony Rudd (’04) is studying engineering at The Ohio State University and marching in the band.

After four years on the sousaphone (tuba) line, he had enough seniority to “dot the I.” (See picture to right.)

Justin D. Barton ('05) is stationed in Camp Casey, South Korea, with the US Army Armored Calvary, 2nd Infantry Division.

His job is a 19 Kilo, and he operates the M1A1 Abrams battle tank. Barton hopes to return to the states next summer, but he’d love to receive e-mail from his fellow alums. justin.d.barton@us.army.mil Cris Reisert (’05) led the Ohio Dominicans to their first playoff game victory in school history (Nov. 2007) and was named the NAIA Offensive Player of the Game.

Willy Balbach (’06) made the University of Dayton baseball team (fall 2007) as a pitcher. He is majoring in mathematics and computer science, has remained on the Dean’s List, and was recently inducted as a member of Pi Mu Epsilon, a national mathematics honor society.

Kyle Fabel (’07) was honored with the Chuck Pennoni Drexel Athletic Recruit of the Year scholarship. As a Drexel University freshman, he was placed in the varsity rowing boat, and he continues to hold a spot there. At the 2007 Junior Nationals, Fabel’s group placed 8th. They also went to England to row in the Royal 28 • SPRING/SUMMER 2008

Henley, Marlowe, and Reading regattas.

second Moeller grappler to make the national tournament this year.

Germaine Lindsey (’07), an Ohio University freshman, qualified for the NCAA Championship Tournament at the MAC Conference Championships held at Kent State University. Lindsey took 3rd place, becoming the

We apologize for any omissions.

If there is anyone who has passed away or who needs to be remembered in our next issue of Moeller Magazine, please contact Ginny Bauer, (513) 791-1680, ext.1300, or e-mail GBauer@Moeller.org.

in memoriam We express our condolences and deepest sympathies to the families and friends of these and other members of the Moeller Family who have passed on: Ballman, Michael ’68 Bley, Jeffrey Sr. ’67 Brewer, William (past faculty) Brown, Daniel L. ’65 Budde, Nicole Burns, Michael R. ’72 Campbell, Brian Chalifoux, Margaret Winters Christie, Theresa Cox, John Crable, Pat Cullinane, John Daumeyer, Joe ’80 Delgado, Celia Villalpando de Didinger, Gary Donnelly, Julia Ann Folchi, Adelo Gates, Ann Schmidt

Grammel, Leonard Gross, James ’76 Guadalupe, Celia Harrison, Warren Herrlinger, Sally Holtel, Glen Huwel, Charlotte G. Johns, Tim Kagy, Donald Koegel, Chris ’67 Lawler, Jim Lobert, Louis Meyer, Glenn Morgan, David John ’86 Schehr, Mark ’78 Smith, Margaret Fay White, Wilbur Williams, Mario

Please call or e-mail and update your information (i.e., current news, special events or activities and honors), so you don’t miss out on any reunion mailing! Please contact Ginny Bauer, (513) 7911680, ext. 1300, or e-mail GBauer@Moeller.org.

Rodenberg New Head Football Coach

BY MARK CHALIFOUX | MCHALIFOUX@COMMUNITYPRESS.COM

PHOTO BY MARK CHALIFOUX

MOELLER NAMED former Roger Bacon Head Coach John Rodenberg as the school’s new head football coach at a press conference (last December). He comes to Moeller after one season at Roger Bacon and stops at Covington Catholic and McNicholas. Rodenberg is the fifth football coach in program history.

“We conducted an extensive search and looked at successful coaches in Ohio and beyond,” Moeller Athletic Director Barry Borman said. “John was a guy who was just a great fit for us. He’s a man of great faith; he’s a good family man, an outstanding football man, just a great fit for Moeller.”

Rodenberg coached at McNicholas High School for 11 years before taking a head coaching position at Covington Catholic. He coached there for two seasons and his team won the Kentucky state championship in 2006. He then spent one year as the Roger Bacon head coach where his team went 2-8. “I’m very excited to be standing here as the new head coach,” Rodenberg said. “We're going to keep things how Moeller wants them, with a commitment to faith and excellence… It’s a great fit for what I believe in. It’s a chance to compete at the highest level of high school football in Ohio. Certainly, the tradition catches you, so there’s a lot of pressure there, but I'm excited for the challenge.”

Rodenberg replaces Bob Crable as the head coach. Crable, a Moeller alumnus, went 48-30 in his seven seasons as head coach. Moeller announced in November that Crable's contract would not be renewed.

Rodenberg will begin teaching at Moeller next year as a physical education and health teacher.

Story and photo reprinted with permission of The Community Press.

Reporter and photographer Mark Chalifoux (pictured to right) is a 2003 Moeller alum and a 2007 graduate of Ohio University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism.

2008 ARCHBISHOP MOELLER FOOTBALL SCHEDULE DATE

LEVEL

OPPONENT/LOCATION

TIME

Sat, Aug 23

V

Princeton in Crosstown Showdown

8:15 PM

Sun, Aug 31

V

Montgomery Bell (Tenn) @ Paul Brown

3:00 PM

Sat, Sept 6

V

Centerville @ U.C. Nippert

7:30 PM

Sat, Sept 13

V

Findlay @ U.C. Nippert

7:00 PM

Sat, Sept 20

V

Mentor @ Mentor

2:00 PM

Fri, Sept 26

V

LaSalle @ LaSalle

7:30 PM

Fri, Oct 3

V

Elder @ U.C. Nippert

7:30 PM

Fri, Oct 10

V

Cathedral Prep @ U.C. Nippert

7:30PM

Sat, Oct 18

V

St. Edward @ U.C. Nippert

7:00 PM

Fri, Oct 24

V

St. Xavier @ St. Xavier

7:30 PM

Check Moeller’s website for details on all of Moeller’s athletic events (including Mapquest directions): www.Moeller.org (see “Athletics/Band” tab, then click “Athletic Calendar”).

NEW V I S I O N

Baseball Coach

‘Build a Top 10 National Program’

BY MARK CHALIFOUX | MCHALIFOUX@COMMUNITYPRESS.COM

FOR THE FIRST SEASON in 40 years, the Moeller baseball team will take the field with a new coach. Longtime coach Mike Cameron retired after last season and one of his assistants, Tim Held, was tabbed to replace him. “Mike was one of the founding figures of our school,” said Moeller Athletic Director Barry Borman.

“He was just a legacy of his own... Mike brought tradition and stability and a consistency year after year.”

A varsity assistant coach for six years under Cameron, Held said keeping Moeller's tradition alive is important to him. “Just seeing all the names in record books of great players that have been here, they are going to wonder if I can keep the Moeller baseball tradition alive and continue to grow it,” he said.

Growing the program is one of Held's goals as he tries to model the baseball program off of the successful basketball program at Moeller. “I want to take it to a national level where people are talking about it and I want us to get to the point where we can be ranked top 10 nationally,” Held said.

Cameron feels confident that Held can take the program to the next level. He said Held “knows the job inside and out” and that he had the ability to bring out the best in the players. “I think he's ready for the job, and I think he's going to build on the tradition and legacy we have here,” Cameron said.

Story and photo reprinted with permission of The Community Press. Reporter and photographer Mark Chalifoux is a 2003 Moeller alum and a 2007 graduate of Ohio University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism.

M ELLER Archbishop Moeller High School 9001 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 45242-7780

PHOTO BY MARK CHALIFOUX

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