“None of the work needed to create an environment for young people to flourish in is possible without the generous investments of our many benefactors.!” – President Kevin Beirne
Dear Montini Catholic Family members,
As December approaches we find ourselves transitioning from the season of gratitude to the season of giving. As you look through this current edition of the Bronco Express, I suspect you’ll feel like I do - a sense of awe at the accomplishments of our current and former students! Take note of the members of our Peer Ministry Team who received rave reviews from Bishop Hicks at the Jubilee Mass held at Montini, the Advanced Placement Scholars who contributed to the best ever AP scores at Montini, the student-athletes who not only achieved excellent results but were honored for the manner in which they did so, our State Champion football team, our educators who were celebrated for their incredible work, and an alum who’s dream of making a film he told me about in English class in 2010 is now a reality. Like I said, truly awe inspiring stuff!
When I made it to the Annual Report in this issue, that initial feeling of awe I had was replaced by one of immense gratitude. None of the work needed to create an environment for young people to flourish in is possible without the generous investments of our many benefactors. This particular Bronco Express provides tangible evidence of just some of the ways so many of you were impactful in this last year. The work we do is important and knowing you have our back, knowing we’re in this together, is incredibly meaningful. So as gratitude gives way to giving in the coming weeks, my sincere hope is that you’ll continue to have our back and continue investing in our young people!
Sincerely,
Kevin Beirne President
Bronco Express
Fall/Winer 2024
have a story?
Our Bronco Express editors are always looking for great stories about our students and alumni. If you have a story or update that you would like to share, we’d love to hear from you.
For student/alumni stories please contact Barbara Dawson, Editor and Communications Director at: bdawson@montini.org
contact us
For alumni updates (photos welcomed) please email us at: alumni@montini.org
Please direct all alumni questions (events, reunions, etc.) to Mary Albert, Alumni Relations Officer malbert@montini.org
President Kevin Beirne kbeirne@montini.org
Principal Chris Tiritilli ctiritilli@montini.org
Are you getting multiple issues of Bronco Express? Please send address changes for Montini graduates to: alumni@montini.org.
In every issue of Bronco Express, an asterisk (*) follows the names of our legacy students (students of alumni).
Development Director Anne Marie Lowery alowery@montini.org
To receive your Bronco Express electronically please contact Michelle Ptak O’Connor ‘88 at: moconnor@montini.org
Montini Catholic A Lasallian College Preparatory High School 19W070 16th Street Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-6930 • www.montini.org
Happy Jubilee
"Today, our diocese is filled with people called to continue that first movement of evangelization and missionary discipleship. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet, we give our utmost gratitude to God for all the abundant blessings that He has bestowed on every person from the time of the first missionaries until today. We acknowledge and celebrate all peoples, living and deceased, who make our diocese strong in faith and compassion, with a heart of service for all people." (Quote from Diocese of Joliet's web page announcing the 75th Anniversary Celebration.)
Montini Catholic was honored to welcome Bishop Ronald Hicks, Bishop Emeritus R. Daniel Conlon, local priests and deacons from several local parishes and over 750 guests from surrounding parishes at a special Mass on Saturday, September 14th to commemorate the 75th Anniversary Jubilee of the Diocese of Joliet.
The diocese held three special liturgies (Montini being one of them) this year to bring all together in celebration of this special anniversary(June 22nd at Bishop McNamara High School in Kankakee and September 28th at Lewis University in Romeoville) It also celebrated a closing liturgy on Sunday, December 8th at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus. (The opening liturgy was held on December 11, 2023 at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus.)
During this yearlong celebration, Bishop Hicks has highlighted the great accomplishments of the diocese' past while nurturing the mission of how it was founded in faith.
On December 11, 1948, His Holiness Pope Pius XII established the Diocese of Joliet-in-Illinois. The foundations of the faith reach back to the French missionary explorers, Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet, who shared the message of the Gospels, evangelizing as they moved from settlement to settlement. It was during their time with the Native American people called the Illinois, that the Catholic faith took root and matured.
Members of Montini's Peer Ministry Team and Student Government were available to assist in various ways throughout the Mass. "Because our connection to the Diocese of Joliet is such an important one, it was a true honor for Montini to be chosen to host such a significant and celebratory liturgy," said Montini President Kevin Beirne. "I was proud of the manner in which we assisted the Diocese, with the volume of our community members who were present and participated in the Mass, and that so many new people were introduced to our wonderful students."
Montini Catholic Bronco Express
Photo above: Bronco students helped out during the Mass - l to r: Brielle Rowgalo ‘25, Nishika Karthi ‘27 and Mary Paulino ‘26
COMMENDED STUDENTS
Seniors John Barrett, Matthew Silveyra and Christopher Zayed, were named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program. Conor Kaefer is a National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalist and has an opportunity to advance in the competition for Merit Scholarship® awards. Congratulations, Broncos!
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
Seniors Josh Brunke (right) and Matthew Silveyra have earned additional academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Program. The program creates a way for colleges and scholarship programs to connect directly with underrepresented students who they are hoping to reach. "Congratulations to Josh and Matthew on this impressive academic achievement," said Principal Chris Tiritilli. "Both of these young men are great examples of what we hope all of our Broncos to be!"
CELEBRATING 30 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) SCHOLARS
Congratulations to the following Bronco AP Scholars from the classes of 2024 and 2025:
AP SCHOLARS
Jasmin Baker Rohlehr '24
Anjay Dhir '24
Anthony Dinkel '24
Mason Esquivel '24
Ruben Galvan '24*
Julia Gergen '25
Hailey Goetz '24
Ruikun Li '25
Margaret Nielsen '25*
Rory O'Connor '24*
Adrian Polaszewski '25
Wyatt Prater '25
Trinity Smith '24
WITH HONOR
Joshua Brunke '25
Daniel Petersen '24
Michael Pogorelec '24
Daniel Sherman '25
Christopher Zayed '25
WITH DISTINCTION
John Barrett '25
Elizabeth Beirne '24
Liliana Cruz '25
Marin Ferris '24*
Sam Hemmersmeier '24
Isabella Jaojoco '25
Conor Kaefer '25
Seoyeon Park '25
Lucy Rizzi '24
Tanner Sebben '24*
Matthew Silveyra '25
Riley White '24
Photo above: Students appear left to right in alphabetical order as they are named above: Scholars, Scholars with Honor, then Scholars with Distinction
Broncos scored a 3 or more on 83% of exams taken resulting in college credit earned!
Scholars - Score of 3 or higher on 3+ AP Exams; With Honor - Score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3+ on four or more of these exam; With Distinction - Scores of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores a 3+ on five or more of these exams 83%
freshmen
SCHOLARS
Montini Catholic is proud to recognize twenty-six (26) freshmen from their Class of 2028. The students are recipients of our Freshman Placement Test Scholarships - offered to incoming freshmen who excel on the Placement Test. Congratulations to:
Photo above: Back row L to R: Kevin Barrett (St. Pius X), Daniel Southern (St. Pius X), Raphael Patacsil (Holy Trinity), Grayson Carrigan (LaGrange Highland), Andrew Haraburda (Notre Dame), Cristian Alcantara (St. Joseph), Myles Monis* (Jefferson Middle School), Matthew McGivern *(Hinsdale Middle School), Zachary Grabenstein (Notre Dame), Blake Morton (St. Scholastica) and Andrew Hemmersmeier (Visitation); Second row: Kayli Gergen (St. Pius X), Maya Kosinski (St. Scholastica), Connie Keeler (Glenn Westlake), Ramona Nagan (Westchester Middle School), Charlotte Sparke (St. Mary of Gostyn), Mary Grace Hubeny* (St. Mary of Gostyn), Molly Mihelich (Glenn Westlake), Evangeline Weiland (St. Pius X), Monroe MacRitchie (St. Mary of Gostyn) and Eleanor Selinsky (St. Mary of Gostyn); Front row: Aidan Murphy (Notre Dame), Addison Matthews (St. Mary of Gostyn), Ella Chico (St. Mary of Gostyn), Charles Ahrens (St. Pius X) and Tyler Matthews (St. Mary of Gostyn)
Each fall Montini is proud to be able to provide an opportunity for Lasallian education to many students; Evangeline Weiland ‘28 is the 2024 recipient of the Frederick & Ann Smith Memorial Scholarship; and William Howenstein ‘28 received the 2024 Johnathan Weiger Memorial Scholarship.
In August, Montini Catholic congratulated five Kazma Scholarship award recipients from our Class of 2028. L to R: Kevin Barrett, Raphael Patacsil, Leigh-Anne Kazma, Abriana Schumerth, Bishop Hicks, Leah Piper*, Mrs. Margaret Kazma and Andrew Hemmersmeier;
FALL SPORTS WRAP-UP
CROSS COUNTRY
The boys and girls cross country teams had one of their best seasons in school history. Both teams advanced to the state meet for the second straight year, 4 runners were All-State - Sydney Gertsen ‘26, Ashlynn Lindt ‘26, Nino Pesola ‘27, and Nolan Ferris ‘25*, the most ever in school history. Our boys finished 7th in state, their highest finish ever as a team
Sydney and Ashlynn finished 6th and 18th, respectively at the IHSA 1A State Meet, and both were also GCAC All-Conference. They are now the fastest and 3rd fastest girls cross country runners in school history, and Sydney is our first ever 3-time all-state runner! Other varsity scorers for the girls throughout the season were Annalee DeFeo ‘25, Rosie Callaghan ‘27, Kayli Gergen ‘28, Gia Csoke ‘28 and Amelia Sherman ‘28. The girls were also Regional Champions at the Harvest Christian Regional.
For the boys, all-staters Nino and Nolan finished 10th and 19th in the IHSA 1A Championship and were both also CCL All-Conference. Nino’s time makes him the 3rd fastest boy in school history, and the fastest since 1983. Also contributing as varsity scorers were Adriel Garcia ‘27, Gavin Conway ‘27, Conor Kaefer ‘25, Sean Buckley ‘27 and Graham Reiser ‘27 Great season, Broncos!
SHOUT-OUTS
Sports Signing Day #1
(Photo on left) Congratulations to our senior Bronco athletes signing on to play sports at the collegiate level:
Katherine Filkowski
Softball, U-W Green Bay
Mario Palermo
Golf, Dominican University
Drew Church
Baseball, Eastern Illinois University
Nikki Kerstein
Basketball, University of Missouri
Annika Bartell
Lacrosse, Manhattan University
Avery Lucatorto
Soccer, St. Mary's University
Natalie Gartlan
Basketball, Millikin University
Ava Sebben*
Lacrosse, Coastal Carolina University
All
Conference Athletes
Cross Country – Sydney Gertsen ‘26, Ashlynn Lindt, Nino Pesola ‘27, Nolan Ferris ‘25*; Football – Nicky Castaldo ‘25, Santino Florio ‘25 (Offensive Player of the Year), JC Hayes ‘25 (Lineman of the Year), Nick Irion ‘25, Vince Irion ‘25, Jeremiah Peterson ‘25, Isaac Alexander ‘26; CJ Harkins ‘26, Israel Abrams ‘27, Max Bell ‘25, Jaxon Lane ‘25; Golf – Annika Bartell ‘26; Soccer – Julian Beahan ‘25, Robert Gutierrez ‘27; Volleyball –Isabel Evenson ‘25 and Sienna Skarda ‘25
IVCA All State Athlete
Sienna Skarda ‘26
IHSFCA All State Athlete
Santino Florio ‘26 - First Team
JC Hayes ‘26 - First Team
Nick Castaldo -26 - Honorable Mention
All State Cross Country
Sydney Gertsen ‘26
Ashlynn Lindt ‘26
Nolan Ferris ‘25*
Nino Pesola ‘27
Sports Signing Day November 13, 2024
History Making Season
Sydney Gertsen ‘26
GOLF
“We ‘aced’ it this year!”
If we had to sum up our 2024 season, it’s simple: We truly "Aced" it this year. From the very first match, the Broncos made a statement, kicking off the year by posting our best dual match score in the last decade, firing an impressive 152 (38 average per player) against Nazareth Academy.
Our team motto for the year was "Attitude Makes a Difference," and it’s safe to say that our positive mindset and strong work ethic definitely made a difference throughout the season. The highlight of the year? We made history by setting a state record with back-to-back hole-in-ones. It started with junior Charlie Paciga’s incredible ace, which was followed up the very next day by junior Liam O'Dea’s stunning hole-in-one. This unforgettable feat exemplifies the kind of magic that happened on the course this season.
A big part of our success can also be attributed to our winter programming, where we’ve taken full advantage of the Kolinski Family golf simulator. This year-round training has been crucial in helping the team continue their progress, with players seeing consistent gains in swing speed, accuracy, and course management. The results speak for themselves—our scores keep dropping year after year, proving that the hard work in the off-season pays off.
Unfortunately, we will be graduating five seniors this year: Jack Barrett, Mario Palmero, Jonathan Hajek, Collins Whitfield*, and Matt Bamford. These leaders have set a high standard for the program, but we have a strong pipeline of talent ready to follow in their footsteps and continue building on their legacy.
Our girls team celebrated a historic year. They started the season off with a second place finish at the Rachel Gibson invite and congratulated 4th and 5th place medalists, Annika Bartell ‘25 and Lily Spanos ‘25*! They followed this impressive finish in September with a 3rd place trophy (with boys team) at the CoEd DePaul Prep Invite. Then on October 1st the team advanced to Sectionals as a team for the FIRST time in program history! At sectionals our Broncos finished sixth overall and Annika Bartell qualified for state, being the first person to do so in Montini girls golf history! Annika also earned All Conference accolades!
“Being able to make it to state was something I have been striving for since my freshman year. Ive fallen short in playoff holes before, so it was so amazing to qualify. My dad has been golfing with me since I was little and my parents were so proud. The experience was great and I had so much fun golfing with the best players in the state!
– Annika Bartell ‘25
VOLLEYBALL
Regional Champions
The Girls Volleyball team took a big leap forward this year thanks in part to our senior captains Izzy Evenson and Sienna Skarda. (Both girls also earned All Conference status and Sienna was named IVCA All-State!) “Service was at the heart of this team from the beginning to the end of the season,” said Coach Vogt. “We started off the season working at the Northern Illinois Food bank and provided a great environment for future Broncos at the Bronco Bash. We had over 50 Junior high teams attend!”
This season was capped off by winning a Regional title (over Hinsdale South) in the 3A level the first since 2021. Coach Vogt thanked all seniors Izzy Evenson, Sienna Skarda, Jamie Loftus, Autumn Schumerth, Hannah Bushati, and Peyton Atkins for all they have done for the program.
Photos on right: Top: Liam O’Dea ‘26 (left) and Charlie Paciga ‘26; Golf seniors Lauren Jaskier, Lily Spanos* and Annika Bartell; Varsity Volleyball captains - Sienna Skarda ‘25 and Isabel (Izzy) Evenson ‘25
FOOTBALL
The 2024 Montini Broncos finished the regular season with a 7-2 record, completing one of the best Chicago Catholic League seasons in Montini history. The rugged schedule propelled the Broncos into the IHSA State Playoffs for the 34th time in program history. After a dominant 1st round victory over North Lawndale HS, the Broncos took on Byron’s Tigers in the much anticipated rematch of last year's tough playoff loss, and earned a hardfought 14-13 revenge victory.
Princeton High School was our quarterfinal opponent, and after defeating the Tigers 24-7 on the road, the Broncos returned home to Duffy Memorial Stadium to host Wilmington in a semi final contest. Even a live bronco, a fireworks display and a military flyover during the National Anthem, couldn't upstage the Broncos offense as it exploded for 42 points, against the Wildcats. The defense continued it's season long dominating performance, and with the 42-12 victory over the Wildcats, the Broncos punched their ticket to the Class 3A State Championship Game the day after Thanksgiving at Hancock Stadium on the campus of Illinois State University. Montini wasted little time scoring early and often, and ran out to a 35-0 halftime lead over the Sages from Monticello. Eventually they secured a running clock in the 3rd quarter, and completed the 49-8 victory, earning the Program's 7th IHSA State Football Championship! Head Coach Mike Bukovsky ‘83 was honored to be a part of this historic team giving credit where it was due. "Our Senior Class was outstanding, as they have overcome many obstacles over their 4 years here, and have cemented their legacy in Montini Football History!"
3A STATE CHAMPIONS
Weiger Spirit of 76 Award
In conjunction with the Johnny Game on October 25th, the Weiger Family presented their 12th ‘Spirit of 76’ Award to senior Jimmy Fitzpatrick. “Jimmy is a great example of a student who embodies all of the attributes that Johnny Weiger exhibited in his short time at Montini," said Coach Michael Bukovsky. "He is a multiple sport athlete, with an outstanding GPA and is a tremendous role model to everyone in our Bronco community.”
Our 2024 'Bumber's Corner
recipient (named after
) is
"Like Brad, JC represents the work ethic, toughness, leadership and character that he exhibited everyday of his life. JC's love of football, and his total commitment to our program is evident everyday, especially on the football field,” said Coach Bukovsky.
3A STATE CHAMPIONS!
Bumber’s Corner Locker
Locker'
football standout, Brad Bumber ‘89†
senior captain Jonathan (JC) Hayes
Cover Photo and this photo provided by Chris Fox.
he also became the first and ONLY coach in IHSA history to earn state championships as head coach in three sports – Wrestling (8), Softball (2), Football (1)!
“
The 7th Montini football state championship feels extra special because of the people who came before me. The teams that laid the foundation, the players who set the example, and the coaches who built this program. They made it possible for us to achieve this. For those reasons it made our winning feel that much better. Their hard work and determination pushed us to do our best, and it’s an honor to continue that tradition and add to Montini’s history. This win is as much for the legacy as it is for us. I would also like to shout out all my teammates and coaches who put in countless hours during the hot summer days and cold fall nights, without them none of this would be possible. Go Broncos!
THE GOAT CoachBu ”
– Nick Irion on cover (center) with brother Vince and dad, Dave Irion ‘88.
Sean Hubeny ‘25* Brody Boyer ‘26 and Santino Tenuta ‘26
Led by an outstanding group of senior athletes and a talented junior class, Coach Chris Andriano knew right away that the 2004 varsity football team could be something special. After a non-conference loss to Sacred Heart-Griffin in the first game of the season, the Broncos vowed to never lose again and they didn’t!
The team cruised to an 8-1 regular season record and won the Suburban Catholic Conference. When the playoffs came around, they earned a 12th consecutive trip to the tournament. In the first 3 rounds of the playoffs, Montini would face 3 teams that had stopped their path to the title before. Montini defeated St. Francis, Burlington Central and Marian Central Catholic to open the post season. Herrin was the only team standing in the way of the Broncos’ first ever appearance in a state title game. This time, Montini would not be denied, defeating Herrin 28-11.
I cannot begin to describe the pride and joy of our 2004 state championship! This victory represented so many people, but most of all the players who believed in themselves and their coaches! Thank you for believing in hard work, mental and physical toughness, and a never say die attitude! I love you all! – Coach Andriano IHSA
The Broncos opponent at Memorial Stadium in Champaign would be 12-1 Coal City. Montini had no problem handling the Coalers, jumping out to a 29-0 lead while running for 319 yards. For the first time in school history, the Broncos were Class 4A Champions with a 44-7 victory!
career, largely because of the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and hard working group of players and coaches. Our community came alive, like I had never seen, as Bronco spirit and pride was absolutely off the charts! That season changed the face of Montini Football forever."
"As a senior, our 1982 Football team had the best season to date at Montini,” remembers coach Mike Bukovsky ‘83. “We were conference champions and made it all the way to the IHSA State Semi Final Game, before a tough loss to Geneseo ended our state championship dream.” He acknowledges that after joining Coach Andrianos' staff in 1990, he couldn’t shake the feeling that the football program had ‘unfinished business.’ “Winning that first football State title was one of the biggest thrills of my coaching
Image at top: Members of our 2004 Football Team relived the elation on Friday, 10/25 at Duffy Memorial Stadium; Front Row L to R: Al Sarno ’07, Will Halboth, Joey Borsellino ’05, Tim Cahill ’05, Pat Lyons ’05, Bobby Dobry ‘05; Second Row: Coach Mark DeLeo, Coach Robert Aurilio ’97, Coach Dan McCann ’77, Coach Dominic Riccordino, Mike Mucha ’05, Head Coach Chris Andriano, Anthony Pecora ’05, Mike Doan ’05, Neal Revane ’05, Allen Anderson ‘06; Third Row: Coach Matt Andriano ’96, Frank Gentile ’05, Steve Erlenbaugh ‘05; Back Row: Coach Dave Whitman
CHRIS ANDRIANO FIELD
As you all know I have a very special relationship with Coach Andriano, as he has been a huge part of my growth, not only as a Coach, but also as a man. When I walked onto the Montini Campus in the fall of 1979, I could have never imagined how much my life would be influenced and shaped by Coach Andriano, and what a mentor he would become to me.
I learned from Chris that ‘you will be forced to give up many things in life, especially social opportunities, to be successful.’ Having our relationship change and grow over the years has been a very special part of my life. The memories we share, and the accomplishments we achieved are far too many to list, and it would be impossible to try to put into words how much he has influenced me since I met him almost 45 years ago.
I think it is only fitting to name our field after Coach Andriano, the man who spent the better part of his life, developing young men, and trying to bring out the best in them - day in and day out. Please help us to honor him by donating to this project, as nothing would make him happier than to be able to share his legacy with all of the future generations of Bronco Football Players! TEAM FIRST!
John L. Duffy Memorial STADIUM RENOVATION PROJECT
Project
Overview – $1,450,000
In 2011, a synthetic athletic surface was installed in the John L. Duffy Memorial Stadium to replace the grass field. Though this was the most advanced product available at the time and we have worked to maintain it, its useful life is coming to an end. The technology has advanced dramatically and we are excited to offer current and future students opportunities to play, pray, learn, compete, engage, train, practice, and build community and memories on this field. In addition, a restroom and concession facility that is accessible from both the baseball and football fields will make the Bronco athlete and fan experience a more comfortable one.
Replace the Stadium Turf with new state of the art, top of the line artificial turf system – $700,000
This field will forever honor the legacy of Coach Andriano by being named in his honor with denotations of this on each sideline.
Resurfacing of the existing track – $150,000
Restroom Facilities and Concession Stand – $600,000
A structure to house a much needed permanent bathroom facility will be added inside of the stadium area. A large amount of this cost is due to the infrastructure need to pump the waste up to the sewer line.
Coach Bu
To review giving levels and/or donate online, scan QR code to be taken to project webpage or visit: www.montini.org/duffyproject
Questions? Contact Anne Marie Lowery, Development Director at 630-627-6930 ext. 182 or alowery@montini.org
Montini Catholic Bronco Express
DREAM Living his
Jack Martin ‘12 accomplished something few people can in life - he dreamed a big dream - and made it come true. His first feature film, Bolt from the Blue, starring brother Kevin ‘06, premiered on the big screen in September and accomplished its goal of inspiring the inner child in all of us.
tantly the right attitude in order to get the best experience out of such an incredible opportunity. This fact was only reassured by my professional work on big productions like Godzilla vs Kong, Fargo Season 3, and The Lion King where I saw how important showing up on time and with the energy can be.
The second greatest thing I learned? Find great people and keep them close.
What was your inspiration for Bolt from the Blue? And, how long did it take from inspiration to completion?
Climate change is a growing issue that has older generations occasionally unfazed and younger generations truly terrified. To get the word out about the issue, a lot of films or news reports lead the story with a sense of dread and panic,
I started to do research and discovered so many scientists and engineers are spending every day devising new forms of renewable energy. I was-alized the best way to move forward on such an
We were elated (and in awe) when we received an invitation to the premiere of Jack Martin’s movie, Bolt from the Blue - September 15 at the Tivoli in Downers Grove. (Jack grew up by Doerhoffer Park in Downers Grove). The movie, a Sci-Fi adventure exploring the fight against climate change with whimsy, humor and heart, was written and directed by Jack, stars brother Kevin ‘06 and featured brother, Jimmy ‘09 as executive producer. We were honored that Jack was able to have a Q & A with us in between his Downers Grove and Hollywood premieres!
Describe your college experience and what led you down this exciting path you are on? Arriving at USC, I was suddenly surrounded by hundreds of fellow filmmakers like myself who were driven, passionate, and just a little bit of a dare devil like myself. I was overwhelmed yet inspired, and our schedule was packed. We had early access screenings, Q&A’s, test shoots, and all the resources we could want at our fingertips. I felt like a kid in a candy shop.
The greatest thing I learned while at USC, though, is none of those cool bells and whistles matter if you don’t put in the work. And better yet, hard work beats talent every time. You have to put in the time, the energy, and most impor-
younger generations, to inspire them to take action - even when it seems ridiculous or impossible - and pursue their dream for a better future, and to find worthy colleagues and collaborators to do it with. It’s almost as if I was trying to make a movie… about making a movie. From the first pitch to the final screening, making the film will have taken 4 years. I’m incredibly proud of this little beacon of hope we’ve created. I think it could be what a lot of people need right now.
How was it directing your brother, Kevin? Kevin is one of the funniest people I know. When I was writing the first draft and creating this wacky, funny, yet heartfelt character of Lucas, I knew there was only one person who could really do it justice. The real perk came when I sent him the script. We have 30 years of shared experiences and comedic sensibilities that no other acting/directing duo has. I’d throw out a reference from a movie I’d watched two decades prior and he’d pick up it on immediately, reminiscing what other movie we had rented that night from Blockbuster. It’s as if we speak a language not many know and it’s called “80s/90s movie references for midwestern boys."
Obviously, your entire family is interested in the arts with Kevin going into acting and Jimmy producing. What sparked this interest in all of you?
Our mother was an accountant and our father a lawyer. So how did we end up in entertainment?
Photo top: Kevin (left) and Jack at his Downers Grove premiere of Bolt from the Blue (Kevin and Page (who played lead role as Mia) - were married just a week before shooting on the film began); Second photo: Jimmy, Jack and Kevin showing off their college colors! Third photo: The three brothers shooting a short film at the Downers Grove train station in 2009; “We spent so much time in downtown Downers, going to car shows, eating at Giordano’s, grabbing books from the library or Anderson’s, and enjoying Blue Moon ice cream at Every Day’s a Sundae! They actually re-named that flavor to ‘Bolt from the Blue’ for a few weeks!”)
Yeah, we don’t really know either. Our parents did push us to play sports, learn instruments, and get the best grades we could, but underneath all that was a great respect for the arts. Our reward for good grades was a trip into the city where we'd catch a show at the theater or a comedy routine at Second City. From a young age, our mom treated the Oscars as if it was our Superbowl. She would have every TV in the house playing the event from red carpet to final speech, taking bets as to who she thought would win.
For my brothers and me, making movies was something to do in our spare time. It was our way of escaping our every day lives, to feel a part of something bigger than ourselves, and to find meaning in the various challenges we were all facing. Plus, there was no social media.
When it came time to actually make this dream a reality, Kevin lead the pack. He was the first to tell our parents he was going to pursue a career in acting. They were a little nervous to say the least, but showed nothing but support as they believed we should all pursue a vocation we were passionate about. I soon followed Kevin, finding storytelling to be a skill I preferred over studying for school exams. My brother Jimmy finally stepped in to help produce our films and lifted us up in a way we never thought possible.
Did anyone at Montini inspire you? So many faculty and staff at Montini were pivotal to our early careers. For my brother Kevin, Mrs. Matheson (“Dr. Di”) was the leading inspiration behind him headlining multiple Montini plays and musicals.
For me, Mr. (Pete) Farina was one of the most enthusiastic teachers I had ever met at the time. He was so eager to talk his favorite movies, pitch ideas, and encouraged me to start Montini’s very first Film Club. Mr. (Kevin) Beirne was the first teacher to let me shoot a film in lieu of writing an essay (thank God). He’d even spend time out of class to theorize where our favorite show LOST was going next. Former principal Mrs. (Maryann) ONeill and Mrs. (Chrissy) McManus helped me gain after school access to Montini to shoot scenes for my film that was a daring yet important subject. These teachers and so many others at Montini showed us the support we needed to believe in ourselves and take this great leap of pursuing our dreams.
What are some of your favorite memories of your time here at Montini? (Least favorite?)
My favorite memory has to be my senior year. My friends and I would sit in the back of our pickup truck and just hangout as students slowly left the parking lot. We’d soak in our final months before graduating and reminisce on our high school adventure, knowing full well we’d be going on our separate journeys in no time.
My least favorite memory? Football practice.
What advice would you give to students (and adults) who have dreams like yours, or any dream, but are intimidated to put themselves out there for fear of failure? There is no dress rehearsal. This is it. This is your life, you only get one for all we know. Find something you care about, something that you can be good at and enjoy doing, that contributes something good to society, and then go out there and do it. Put yourself out there. Find people who want to do the same. Others may judge you or disagree with what you’re doing, but it’s not their life in the end. If you believe what you’re doing is meaningful to you and could mean something for the world no matter how big or small, then it’s worth pursuing in my eyes.
I know it’s scary to fail, but that’s where you learn the most! If scientists and engineers weren’t asking big questions and coming up with hypothesis then we’d never land on the scientific truths we know today. We wouldn’t be innovating with solar and wind and even lightning power! There’s no way to know if your passion project or your theory will work until you try and the worst case scenario is you end up failing, learning, and growing in the process. Most of us can get caught up in the pursuit of happiness thinking our happiness and our worth lies on the other side of success, but I’ve come to realize it’s more about the happiness of the pursuit. Fall in love with the process. The result, whether a success or failure, is just gravy.
In the process of making Bolt from the Blue, I’ve become a better storyteller, filmmaker, collaborator, brother, friend, and overall wacky climate change enthusiast. I've met new incredible collaborators I wouldn’t have otherwise met, traveled to places I wouldn’t have gone to, and have found answers to questions I didn’t even know I should ask. So whatever it is you want to do, go for it. You never know who you might become!
Rent or buy Bolt from the Blue on Amazon Prime! Or visit: www.jackmartinfilm.com/boltfromtheblue
Photo opposite top - Principal Kevin Beirne joined Jack at his Downers Grove premiere;
Montini Catholic’s Annual Fund provides financial support for a wide range of programs, helping us to continue with our mission of educating, inspiring and encouraging tomorrow’s leaders. Your gift provides for appropriate educational technology being available to all our faculty and students; continuous enhancement of our retreat and pastoral ministry programs; competitive faculty salaries to attract and retain top teachers in addition to providing professional development opportunities; and financial aid for families in need of assistance.
Please consider stepping forward to ‘be the one’ who understands the importance of a Lasallian education at Montini Catholic. By investing, you can ‘be the one’ to positively affect the future of our students, our school, our community. . . . our world.
Thank you to all who have stepped up already to say, “I will be the one” to support Lasallian education at Montini.
HOW TO GIVE
MAIL
Check to Montini Catholic High School, Attn: Annual Fund, 19W070 16th St., Lombard IL 60148.
ONLINE (Via credit card: American Express, Visa, MasterCard or Discover) Visit our page at: www.montini.org/betheone2425 or scan the link below.
VENMO @montinicatholic
ank you
Pope Paul IV Society
($100,000+)
Kazma Family Foundation
Signum Fidei Society
($50,000 - $99,999)
Catholic Education Foundation of The Diocese of Joliet
James & Mary Miller
Mike ‘71 & Diane (Kosmach) ‘71 Schumacher
Founder’s Society
($25,000 - $49,999)
Christian Brothers of The Midwest District
Flood Brothers Disposal Co.
Frankie’s Deli
James Heuer ‘70
Madeline Hughes
Norman ‘87 & Jennifer Sidler
Brian Smith ‘73
Greg & Caryn Zeman
Christian Brothers’ Society
($10,000 - $24,999)
Anonymous
Rich & Mary Binder
John Buck
Green Sustainable Packaging Machinery, Inc.
Helen Brach Foundation
Elyn Holton-Dean
Huddle Club
Ed & Pam Mack
Ron & Patricia Mangelsdorf
Quincy & Cindy Maquet
Bill & Linda Mullins
John Murphy ‘77
National Investment Services
Janis Orlowski ‘74
Shannon (Mullins) ‘89 & Brian Smith
Martin Thompson ‘80
Rose Wilkes
LaSallian Society
($5,000 - $9,999)
Jeannette (Workman) ‘85 & Chris Bartosz
Michael & Valerie Bava
James ‘81 & Catherine (Baloun) ‘81 Beverley
Amy Caveney ‘94
Dominic & Claudette Coco
Joseph & Mary Sue Dailey
Divine Providence School
Michael ‘88 & Bernadette Fitzpatrick
Irish Fellowship Education & Cultural Foundation
Jan & Thomas McGivern
Midwest Mechanical
O’Keefe Lyons & Hynes LLC
John & Nancy Phelan
Michael & Amber Quirk
Richard Rafanelli ‘76
Marianne & William Vivirito
Walter ‘75 & Rita Weisenburger
San Miguel Soceity
($2,500 - $4,999)
Jeffrey & Tina Bell
Brooks & Julie Boyer
Dennis & Connie Colleran
Margaret Crotty
Diversified Print Group
Giuseppe & Vincenza Giannola
Thomas & Claire Johannesen
Leigh-Anne Kazma
Pete & Marianne Messina
Neuco Inc.
Pepsico Foodservice
Pirates Baseball
Michael & Cynthia Santay
Suburban Door Check & Lock Service
Frances Swaufeld
Tracy Tredenick-Fricke
Stephen & Allison Veltman
John & Susan Wick
President’s Club
($1,000 - $2,499)
A To Z Auto Repair
Michael Alebich ‘03
Alera Group
Alex Mendez Golf Shop
Christopher & Deanna Andriano
Anyways Inc
ASG Staffing
Atomic Transmissions
Kevin & Julie Beirne
Mike & Claire Beirne
Robert & Alicia Gutierrez
Jim & Gina Blackmore
Thomas Boeh ‘76
Harry Bork
Lewis ‘75 & Julie (Saviano) ‘76 Borsellino
Buck Services
Darren & Bruna Burgener
Tony & Annie Cappetta
Jack Caveney
Adam DeMong
Abhishek & Mahima Dhir
David & Mary Kaye Doll
Donaly Roofing & Construction
Joseph Dunn ‘86
Financial Investments Corporation
Mike & Stacy Flannery
Richard & Anita Gatto
John Gavin ‘91
Michael Gilmartin ‘86
Glenbard Auto Body
Mike Grady ‘70
Eddie & Kelly Greco
Steven ‘79 & Bridgitte Guertler
HPI
Eric & Dorothy Hrdina
Illinois Jays Inc.
Illinois Lady Lightning
Jackdaddy
Douglas & Sandra Jamieson
Sean Jamieson ‘83
Maureen & Thomas Kalas
Kazarian Family Foundation
Michael & Diane Kordecki
Daniel ‘86 & Dina Laughlin
Royal & Maurine Lefere
Judy (Mullins) ‘79 & John Lucas
Michael Manna ‘70
Timothy McCahill ‘03
McJames Construction
Mark & Carolina Menapace
William & Peggy Mersch
Midwest Construction Partners
Kathy (Schmitt) Miley ‘79
Modell Funeral Home
Steven ‘06 & Justine (Morano) ‘06 Montalto
Julia (Whalen) ‘77 & Don Musil
NAI Hiffman
Bernard & Diane Napolski
James & Mary Norton
Timothy ‘87 & Kimberly O’Connor
Peggy (Batten) O’Flaherty ‘87
Michael O’Hara ‘93
John Oliverio
Maryann O’Neill
Orlando Imports
Anthony & Kimberly Pacelli
Gregory & Beverly Peck
Esmeralda Pineda
Power Construction Company
Quest Food Management Services
Thomas & Cynthia Rachubinski
Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers
Bob & Amy Rawski
Elizabeth Renchin
Sean Ross ‘78
Anthony & Linda Rossi
Rule One Proteins
David & Julie Sheeran
Ron Skwarek
Mary Beth (Tokarski) Smedinghoff ‘71
Robert & Melissa Surrette
Steven & Lauren Taylor
Joseph & Kathleen Warzecha
West Suburban Endodontics
Colleen White
Peggy (Murphy) Wier ‘79
De La Salle Club
($500 - $999)
A Plus Garage Door
Accu-Labs Inc
Brittany Aiyash ‘08
Rocky & Kerry Aiyash
Allstate
Amsted Industries
Thomas & Marisa Bianco
Robert Brandt ‘83
Cameo Dental Specialists
Carolyn Bronke Wind Dds,
Janine & Dennis Carter
Nick & Christy Castaldo
John & Jo Ann Cavanaugh
Arlene Chiaro
Chicago Sky Basketball Academy
Deidre (Chase) Clingen ‘80
Kevin & Eliza Cole
D & D Manufacturing
William & Kimberly Dahlborn
Donald ‘70 & Eileen (Finn) ‘70 Davis
Lawrence ‘82 & Roberta Diedrick
Marilyn Dobski
Brian & Tina Donda
Jim Donovan ‘71
John & Randa Duncan
Christopher Dziewiatkowski ‘99
Sheila & Glenn Evans
Fieldturf
Brian Forde ‘89
Game One
Kathy & Fred Garfield
Glen Oaks Hospital Ed Staff & Paramedics
Global Marble and Granite
Grainger Grove Plating Company
Bob & Lisa Hajek
Patricia (Dooley) Hart ‘82
Brian ‘94 & Hilary Herold
Michael Hohensee
Kirk Holman ‘79
Home Run Inn
Huntington Learning Centers
Robert Iberle
Ike & Oak Brewing Company
Interior Investments Llc
James ‘71 & Joan (Beverley) ‘71 Izzo
Gwen (Zeisel) Johnson ‘80
Jostens
Jennifer (Long) ‘97 & Michael Kavanagh
Carol (Kearney) Kelly ‘70
Zach Kite
Catherine Kitz ‘13
Martin Kolinski ‘71
L. Neill Cartage Company, Inc
Jordan Lazowski ‘15
Len’s Ace Hardware
Kevin Lynch
Sean ‘82 & Jana (Aiello) ‘83 Maher
Thomas Mahoney ‘85
Richard Martinello ‘87
Maximum Printing & Graphics
Julie (Salerno) McGlade ‘88
Brian & Kristina McKinney
Dennis & Karin McNicholas
Stephen & Kathleen McShane
Meredith Jaye
Montini Catholic Booster Club
Montini Catholic Parent Club
Bruce & Kimberlee Morton
Richard Munaretto ‘93
Mark & Truc Nelson
Jim & Janice Nelson
James & Whitney O’Brien
Jack & Jean Anne Ovel
Brian & Lisa Paradis
Robert Parrilli ‘78
Ramon Paulino & Leticia Garcia
Mike Paulo
Sindhu Perumal & Muthuswamy Karthi
John & Dawn Quinnert
Cheryl Raush
Joseph ‘86 & Vicki (Jaloszynski) ‘88 Ream
Jim Ronan ‘70
Rosemary & Jean’s Public House
Keith & Laura Ross
Sarah Rousseau
James & Jennifer Rouzan
Richard & Susan Salerno
Kurt Schackmuth
Scoops and Cookies
Selden Fox
Keith Shannon ‘89
Jagadeeshy Siram & Purna Saladi
John Susic ‘89
James Susic ‘84
Sustainable Lighting TIAA
Alberto & Nancy Torres
William ‘81 & Kathleen (Holler) ‘82 Tumpane
Glenn & Barbara Wagner
Michael & Carol Winfrey
Melissa Yanik
Gary & Cathy Zabinski
Maroon & Gold Club
($250 - $499)
Joseph Aiu ‘78
Darren & Christina Alonzo
Ascension Catholic School Staff
Lawrence & Marina Barrett
Matthew & Kimberly Berberich
Binder Realty Consultants
Blue Lake Wealth Advisors
Brett Blacher, DDS
Thomas & Susan Broderick
Jeffrey ‘88 & Kimberly (Gary) ‘88 Bukovsky
John ‘83 & Dina (Forillo) ‘84 Cady
Trisha (Engel) ‘93 & TJ Campbell
Frank & Nicole Carbonara
Christ The King Parish
Fred & Mandie Conforti
Madelyn Cox
Mark & Karen Cronin
Rodney & Jocelyn Cruz
William Dawes ‘13
William & Barbara Dawes
Warren Dawes ‘16
Thomas & Anne Marie Delgatto
Anthony & Laura DeSensi
Jack & Lori Disimone
Dr. Michael Colletti
James Erdman ‘89
Kathy & Len Farina
Richard & Jacqueline Fleischer
Sven & Anne Flodstrom
John Fountain & Staci Dean-Fountain
Mark Francl ‘89
Friends of Suzy Glowiak
Nick ‘81 & Christina Gangas
Jose Garcia & Evelyn Olvera
Robert & Lynn Gartlan
GE Kinsella Services LLC
Kristopher & Jill Goetz
Griffin/Harvey Group
Br. Thomas Harding, FSC
Mark & Yvette Henderson
Christopher & Michelle Hoeflich
Bob & Jayne Hoppenstedt
Terry Hospodar
William ‘92 & Amanda (Podraza) ‘92 Hoving
Hubeny Realty
Michael & Pat Janko
Steven & Mary Jennrich
Matthew Kaefer ‘16
Ed & Nicole Karas
Chris Keleher
Key Carpet
Cheryl ‘82 Kirk & Donald Konopacz
Charles & Lois Kirk
Tammy Kocher ‘89
Jason & Amanda Konder
Dirk & Elizabeth Krueger
James & Elizabeth Landano
Eugene Larcker
Lewis University
Michael & Tina Long
Anthony & Susan Lucatorto
Lucia Maffei ‘90
Bobby & Amy Marciniak
Charles Montgomery ‘09
Dennis Morajda ‘88
Michael & Marie Mourek
Eileen Mueller
Edward & Patty Mullins
Kathleen (Happel) Naatz ‘78
Miles & Melanie Petersen
PFB Inc
Luiz Pozo & Patricia Gonzalez
Range At 355
Edward & Jessica Ranquist
Charles Raucci ‘86
Christopher Reed ‘93
Riggs Brothers
Gabriella Rossi ‘18
Thomas Ruddy
Sal’s Beverage World
Dick Schroeder ‘74
Anna (Thallemer) Sharp ‘91
Shutterfly LLC
Sixsibs Capital Corporation
Sports Brain
St. Isaac Jogues Parish
St. Mary of Gostyn Parish
David Star
Steven Chudik, Md
Frederick & Linda Stumbaugh
Suburban Mailing Services
Michael Sullivan ‘94
Joseph Susic ‘87
Joe & Pat Tiritilli
Paul & Mary Tomich
Top Driver
Timothy Trotter ‘86
Twirlista
James & Irene Watson
Joan Williams
Greg & Suzanne Wolf
Allan & Mary Ann Wright
Thomas Young ‘70
Bruce Zidarich ‘82
Bronco Pride Club
($100 - $249)
Kurt & Sarah Ahlm
CJ & SungA Alcantara
Richard & Charity Alikpala
All Star Pediatrics
Richard & Beatrice Almassey
Barry & Kristin Andres
William ‘92 & Julie Angelakos
Paul Aronian ‘76
Arthur J. Gallagher Foundation
Ascension of Our Lord Parish
Rick & Anna Aumann
Christine (Temborius) Babb ‘76
Mary Carol (Dooley) Badat ‘75
Robert Baker
Michael & Tamara Barnes
John & Magda Bastas
Joseph & Stephanie Batka
Don & Adrianne Beck
Nicole (Minucciani) ‘98 & Maurice Bernardi
Michael Blanchette
Dominic & Jody Bocconcelli
Beth (Manzeske) Boghossian ‘89
William Botel ‘73
Loretta & William Botel
Eduardo & Norma Brambila
Jane Breier
John & Laurel Brill
Andrew & Christina Brunsen
David Bugajski
James Cernugel ‘89
Benjamin Cesaretti ‘07
Mark & Anais Cetrone
Michael & Nancy Chahino
Edward Chalifoux ‘83
Thomas & Linda Chatton
Joseph & Jennifer Ciaccio
Beth Clynch ‘82
Vincent Colletti ‘05
Mike Colletti
Richard & Barbara Conrath
Janet Considine
Matthew & Megan Conway
Judith Cook
Juan & Yara Cordero
Patrick & Anna Doherty
Richard Dolan ‘70
Duco Cement Construction
Mark Duerinck ‘75
Joe & Kim Duffy
Adrian Dunholter
Brittany Dyra
Grant & Pat Ellington
Chrystal Enyedi
Dennis Epps & Elisabeth Sebourn-Epps
Laurette (Bruni) Espeland ‘71
Armand ‘70 & Gwen (Tregler) ‘71 Esposito
Ubaldo & Tracy Esquivel
John & Susan Fahey
James Falakos ‘06
Frank Fant ‘70
Mike & Heidi Farrell
Chad & Julianne Feigel
Kenneth Fernandez ‘78
Kathleen Filipiak
Thomas & Heather Filkowski
Thomas & Barbara Finn
Joseph & Melissa Fisher
Joe & Maureen Flavin
Adrienne Forstneger
Don Forsyth ‘91
Sue Ann Fraher
Robin (Finnerty) Freiburger ‘84
Jerry & Mary Lou Frett
Friends of Dick Schroeder
Barbara Frost
Theodore & Laura Fuger
Rick Funcik ‘70
Lisa Furey ‘87
Ricardo & Bertha Garcia
Brian & Annie Gaughan
Paul Gavin ‘96
John Gerlesits ‘70
Dan & Anne Girzadas
William Gorman ‘81
Jerry & Vanessa Gramarossa
Ray & Lynne Grigsby
Joseph ‘84 & Meaghan Grimes
Leonard ‘85 & Maureen Grimsley
Dan & Kelly Grzyb
Robert & Alicia Gutierrez
Martha (Grant) Hadjidakis ‘05
Diane (Starsiak) Hahn ‘70
Howard & Andrea Hall
Kevin & Linda Haynes
Tom & Anne Healy
Catherine (Murphy) Henry ‘72
Jason Herrmann & Maria Garcia Herrmann
Olivia Herrmann ‘19
Donald Hoem
Mary Hofschulte
Sean Howery
Gregory & Sarah Hribal
Jason Hu
John & Cathy Hubeny
Matthew & Kristine Humphrey
David Irion ‘88
Kathleen Izzo ‘00
Ron & Michelle Janis
Monica & Christopher Jazmin
Alexxis Johnson
Jennifer (Latko) Johnson ‘86
Roxanne (Mendez) Johnson ‘89
Scott & Mary Juda
Frederick & Jeanne Kaefer
Eugene Karczewski
Christine Kaseeska
Mary Alice (Buzzard) Kauling ‘71
Raymond Keeler & Joann Romano-Keeler
Mary (Grimes) Kelly ‘77
Anna Kerschhakel
Raymond Kingsfield & Christina Locher
Kingsfield
Doug & Tiffany Kinney
Kirk & Associates
Knights of Columbus
Christ The King Council No. 11027
Knollcrest Funeral Home
Tyler Neill ‘02
Dan & Colleen Neustadt
Nisen & Elliott Llc
Nicholas Skwarek ‘10
Kevin Smith ‘72
Special T Unlimited
Joseph & Mary Ellen Spokas
St. Joseph Parish
St. Pius X Parish
Daniel & Dolina Stevenson
Sullivan Family Funeral Homes
Daniel ‘88 & Karrie O’Connor
O’Neill’s Pub
Our Lady of Mt Carmel
Daniel ‘83 & Mary Owczarski
Packey Webb Ford
Barbara Peck
Mike Peluse ‘72
Terrence & Barbara Pestel
Russell Courtney
James & Barbara Cox
Jamie Crackel
Don & Paula Daliege
John & Angela Daly
Jeff & Jeanine D’Amico
Diane (Boeh) Davies ‘74
Ronald & Sheryl Desanto
Carol (Kolinski) Desimone ‘73
Douglas Diedrick ‘11
Edward & Kimberly Dinkel
Georgia Kolovitz
Eleanore Koppin
William & Cynthia Kotlicky
Christopher & Khristine Kozlov
Thomas & Bonnie Kracun
Michael Krisch ‘70
Brian & Kathy Kubeczko
Julie Lafayette
Matthew & Margaret Leahy
Matthew Leakakos ‘12
Patricia Licata ‘76
Victorino & Yadira Sosa Llanes
Chris Locascio
Shanrika Lockhart
Patricia (Bonnamy) ‘83 & Mark Loftus
Christina (Connelly) ‘86 & David Loftus
George & Gina Lombardi
Long Realty Inc.
Gricelda & Gabriel Lopez
Kerwin & Marivi Lorenzo
Shannon Lucas ‘09
Richard & Erin Lugowski
Alex Luka ‘17
Michael & Mary Lyons
Uvaldo & Hilda Macias
Gary Mack ‘70
Michael & Briana Malizzio
Paoule & Odette Manalaysay
Sandra Marcoux
Susan Marschall ‘87
Charles & Juliette Matthews
Marco & Erika Mattiuz
Aurimas & Joanna Matulevicius
Philip & Nicolette May
Daniel ‘77
& Catherine (Tumpane) ‘77 McCann
Matthew McGivern ‘93
Eduardo & Elida Melesio
Mike’s Meat Market
Michael Mikus
Susan (Stringini) Miles ‘70
Katie Miller
Jessica Miller & Eric Frasco
Nancy Monbrod
Daniel ‘82
& Cheryl (Jenkover) ‘84 Montgomery
Barbara Moran
Mary Moreillon
Janice (Baldasar) Morgando ‘70
Trudi (Wright) Mueller ‘87
Nania Energy
Dominic & Vaide Naso
Cesar & Alexandra Navas
Dane & Esther Neal
Maureen (O’Neill) ‘87 & Garrick Nielsen
Charles & Ifeoma Nkuku
Wendy O’Connell
Shane O’Flaherty
John & Carol Olechny
Mark & Elizabeth Oliverio
Joseph & Carmen Ortoneda
David & Stacy Ostrowski
Kunle Oyekanmi & Onasanya Florence
David & Kathleen Paciga
Matthew & Nicole Palmer
Guy Papa ‘94
Guy & Mary Ann Papa
Kerry ‘91 & Vanessa Paprockas
Robert & Charlene Paprockas
James & Lucille Parrilli
Jacqueline Parrillo
Robert & Barbara Pauley
Peaches Boutique
Robert & Barbara Petrungaro
Brian & Jill Piekarski
James & Karen Pogorelec
John & Julie Pully
Kelly Ragonese ‘95
Roberta & Gary Raike
Paul & Rena Marie Ranieri
John ‘73 & Karen Regan
Scott Reid ‘85
Ronald Rench
Kimberly (Caffarelli) ‘81 & Dan Richmond
Susan & Patrick Richter
Carol Ripp
Robert & Roseanne Ripper
Steven & Becky Rizzi
Robert Roller ‘71
Scott Ross ‘72
Theresa Ruopp
Michael ‘97 & Ann Elizabeth (Cull) ‘97 Russo
Tom & Kelly Ryan
Fernando & Maria Sanchez
Br. Joseph Saurbier, FSC
Peter Scheffler ‘85
Meg Scholand-Watson
Maria Seager
Tim & Jessica See
Adrienne Segovia ‘79
Jimmy & Jane Segredo
George Sheffer ‘70
Steven Shimkus ‘84
Earl & Mary Signer
James & Rhonda Sipchen
Gregory Smith ‘70
Samuel Smith ‘18
Shea Smith ‘20
Randy Smith & Lisa Upshaw-Smith
Laurie Snukst
Gregory & Diane Sosnovich
Roberto & Teresa Soto
Mary Margaret South ‘12
Joel & Catherine Southern
Alexander & Diane Spanos
Anthony & Monica Spatafore
Michael & Dina Spidale
St. Isidore Church
St. James The Apostle Parish
St. Scholastica Parish
Tim Staton & Melissa Ericson
William & Teresa Steiner
Craig & Kellie Stumbaugh
Ed Swies
Chad Sypkens
Jim Tammen
Michael Tellone ‘71
Sara Teppema
Deborah (Darley) Tharp ‘78
Lucious & Natasha Thomas
Rebecca Thompson
Sheila Thornton
Mary (Cesaretti) Traficanti ‘70
Kevin ‘79 & Christine (Cribari) ‘80 Tribble
James ‘72 & Sue (Hamilton) ‘72 Tumpane
Heather Ude
Ben & Audrey Ulisano
V3 Companies
Ruben & Laura Vazquez
Thomas ‘82 & Sharon (Zeisel) ‘82 Venchus
Geraldine (Dulkoski) ‘87 & Donne Viau
Vedrana Vislavski
Jim & Michelle Volpi
John ‘89 & Kathi Vosicky
Michael & Katie Vreeland
Jeanne Ward
Bennett & Christine West
Don & Betty Willig
Philip & Aimee Wisch
James & Janice Wolak
Ginamarie Woldman
York Center Firefighters Association
Tim Young ‘73
Patricia Zapinski
Michael Zaura
Marwan & Rana Zayed
Henry Zeisel ‘81
Barbara (McKale) Zen ‘71
James & Peggy Zirko
Friends of Montini Catholic
($1 - $99)
Abbvie
Barbara & John Altstadt
Glen & Diane Armstrong
Tom Arndt
Dan & Jennifer Atkins
Amy Bagley
Sofia Bala
Thomas & Kristin Bamford
Piotr & Katarzyna Baran
Beverly (Almassey) ‘78 & Randy Barger
Christian & Jennifer Barnes
John Barrett & Kathleen Callaghan Barrett
Joseph Basso
Marilyn Bazan
Quinton Bell & Sucada Withrow-Bell
Eligio & Regina Bertucci
Thomas Blankenship
Denis & Jennifer Block
Kylie Boyer ‘20
Christopher Browne ‘05
Gloria Brownfield
Jack & Beth Bruscianelli
Brian & Kathleen Buckley
Mary Ann Cashman
Patricia Castrogiovanni
Caterpillar Foundation
Annette & James Clynch
Warren & Sharon Cohrs
James & Mary Collins
Lisa Conaghan ‘84
Jill Congiusti
Jean Marie Considine
Kenetha Cook
Arlette Cooper
Rita Crosse
Bryan & Juanita Crouch
Dianne & Frank Czopek
Anders Da Silva ‘88
Mike DiBenedetto
Kathy Dinunno
Kathleen Duffy ‘70
Geraldine Dulkoski
Tom & Debbie Dwyer
Robert & Natalie Egan
Donald & Christine Ernat
Mike & Kate Fahey
David & Jessica Felice
Shannon (O’Connor) ‘93 & Matthew Ferris
Bernard Ferro
Karen Fey
Thomas Finch ‘74
Dolores (Powers) Fisher ‘72
Brendan Gallagher ‘98
Robert Gannon ‘16
Guadalupe & Helen Garcia
Colin Patrick Garvey ‘95
Charles Gatling & Janene Marshall-Gatling
Jennifer (Doll) Gedraitis ‘94
Michael & Kristine Gergen
Justin Gergen ‘22
Olivia (Garza) Gerk ‘96
Jill Goebel ‘81
Vera Gojewycz
Yolanda Goree
Mark Gransee ‘75
Stephen Gryl ‘78
Richard & Lisa Gudmundson
Thomas & Mary Hanik
Brandon & Tamika Harrington
Josephine & Vincent Hayes
Sharon Herendeen
David & Cindy Hernandez
Patricia Herold
John Hlavacka ‘70
Dwayne & Sermethia Houston
Michael & Michele Isherwood
Pete & Sara Jezyk
Ashley Johnson ‘18
Nonenitt Joiner
Robert & Dina Kalins
Venita (Van Dyke) Kalnicky ‘72
Bernard & Claire Keating
Jean Kent
Matthew Kissane ‘83
Kenneth Klamerus ‘72
Charles & Nancy Kocher
Joe & Tammy Kosarek
Dennis & Nancy Koziol
Thomas & Patricia Kramer
Daniel & Karen Krueger
Don & Kathy Kruse
Jason & Jamie Kuzniar
Arthur & Carrie Kwiatkowski
Mary (Babel) Lauinger ‘98
Stephen & Sharon Libby
Barbara & Barry Lieske
Dennis & Patricia Lisauskas
Michelle Litos ‘88
Karen Lorge
Paula Louise
Janet Luberda
Daniel & Jaclyn Luif
Kathleen (Duerinck) Lutgen ‘73
Julie (McGivern) Maddox ‘99
Kara Mamaj
John & Nicole Manganello
Anthony & Daniela Marre
Ernie & Wanda Matia
Steve & Cynthia May
Michael McCarthy ‘83
Mark & Melissa McKinzie
Alex & Annie Mendez
Randy & Katie Mihelich
John & Presy Milas
Lisa Miner
Dominick Moran ‘17
Sara Murphy
Tom Novy ‘75
Edmund & Mary O’Brien
Karen (Hrovatin) O’Brien ‘72
Mary Ann O’Connor
Joseph & Michele O’Connor
Patrick ‘81 & Michelle (Ptak) ‘88 O’Connor
Charlene Oliver
Jennifer Ortinau
Rafael & Denise Ortiz
Harvey Outlaw & Eva Walker-Outlaw
Paul & Lisa Palasek
Suzan Panarese
Mark & Rhena Patacsil
Germaine Patryn
James Peterson ‘84
Timothy Peterson ‘84
Phayvanh & Candice Phengkeokaisone
Piper Sandler
Sarah & Jeremy Pittenger
Bill & Ann Pogorelec
Donna (McShane) Poulson ‘71
Jeremy & Tara Prusa
James ‘81 & Ann (Kunzler) ‘81 Radecki
Ashley (Petrovich) Raimondi ‘03
Gregory & Annemarie Reiser
Brian & Regina Rettler
Carmela & Angel Reyes
Peter & Natividad Rigor
Joann Rodi
Jessica (Sippel) Rodriguez ‘03
John & Erika Rohrich
Jeff & Kim Rucinski
Brian ‘88 & Amy Ruddy
Ronald & Linda Samoska
Sharon (Almassey) Sather ‘86
Donald & Mary Scherrman
Kimberly (Shroka) Schiller ‘78
Daniel & Tina Schmidt
Barbara Schmith
Bernard & Winifred Schorle
Margaret (Pardi) Schwanebeck ‘72
Ann (Sullivan) Schwartz ‘79
Michael & Joanne Scott
Helen Scott
Judy (Reuhl) Sebens ‘73
James & Terri Segredo
Maneesh & Julie Sharma
Mary Sheahan-Latronica
Larry & Andrea Sheppard
Edward Sherman & Sharon Wehling-Sherman
Mary Lou & Terry Sidlow
Thomas & Marie Skokna
Rory & Mary Smith
Nathan Sniegowski ‘20
Henry & Teresa Sokalski
Sean Spencer & Marlene Spencer-Rodgers
Francesco & Adele Spizzirri
Peter Squier ‘77
St. John XXIII Catholic School
Eric & Angelique Stacy
Barbara Stein
Emily (Fahey) Steinberg ‘10
Michael & Malgorzata Stiso
Stacy Tamsevicius
Saverio & Rose Tenuta
Jack & Laverne Terracciano
Jennifer (Herold) Thompson ‘89
John Tumpane ‘73
Mary Ann Tumpane
Patricia Vanderplow
Cory Vecchio ‘14
Abet & Leah Vego
Dan & Joanne Viollt
Joseph Vitale & Debra Schwartzers-Vitale
Margaret & Bradley Wachowiak
Alexander Walters ‘11
Diane (Tauscher) Ward ‘70
Paul & Linnea Warda
Christopher & Sara Webb
Lesley & Warren Weirich
Phillip & Debra Wenger
Jay & Lisa White
Fiona Winfrey ‘16
Carle Wunderlich ‘73
Keenan & Nikita Wynn
Josetta Yanik
Andrew Young ‘77
Lineta Zileniene
Paul & Carol Zilic
William & Jill Zouras
‘BE THE ONE’ GIVING BY CLASS YEAR
Class of 1970
Donald Davis
Eileen (Finn) Davis
Richard Dolan
Kathleen Duffy
Armand Esposito
Frank Fant
Rick Funcik
John Gerlesits
Mike Grady
Diane (Starsiak) Hahn
James Heuer
John Hlavacka
Carol (Kearney) Kelly
Michael Krisch
Gary Mack
Michael Manna
Susan (Stringini) Miles
Janice (Baldasar) Morgando
Jim Ronan
George Sheffer
Gregory Smith
Mary (Cesaretti) Traficanti
Diane (Tauscher) Ward
Thomas Young
Class of 1971
Jim Donovan
Laurette (Bruni) Espeland
Gwen (Tregler) Esposito
James Izzo
Joan (Beverley) Izzo
Mary Alice (Buzzard) Kauling
Martin Kolinski
Donna (McShane) Poulson
Robert Roller
Mike Schumacher
Diane (Kosmach) Schumacher
Mary Beth (Tokarski) Smedinghoff
Michael Tellone
Barbara (McKale) Zen
Class of 1972
Dolores (Powers) Fisher
Catherine (Murphy) Henry
Venita (Van Dyke) Kalnicky
Kenneth Klamerus
Karen (Hrovatin) O'Brien
Mike Peluse
Scott Ross
Margaret (Pardi) Schwanebeck
Kevin Smith
James Tumpane
Sue (Hamilton) Tumpane
Class of 1973
William Botel
Carol (Kolinski) Desimone
Kathleen (Duerinck) Lutgen
John Regan
Judy (Reuhl) Sebens
Brian Smith
John Tumpane
Carle Wunderlich
Tim Young
Class of 1974
Diane (Boeh) Davies
Thomas Finch
Janis Orlowski
Dick Schroeder
Class of 1975
Mary Carol (Dooley) Badat
Lewis Borsellino
Mark Duerinck
Mark Gransee
Tom Novy
Walter Weisenburger
Class of 1976
Paul Aronian
Christine (Temborius) Babb
Thomas Boeh
Julie (Saviano) Borsellino
Patricia Licata
Richard Rafanelli
Class of 1977
Mary (Grimes) Kelly
Daniel McCann
Catherine (Tumpane) McCann
John Murphy
Julia (Whalen) Musil
Peter Squier
Andrew Young
Class of 1978
Joseph Aiu
Beverly (Almassey) Barger
Kenneth Fernandez
Stephen Gryl
Kathleen (Happel) Naatz
Robert Parrilli
Sean Ross
Kimberly (Shroka) Schiller
Deborah (Darley) Tharp
Class of 1979
Steven Guertler
Kirk Holman
Judy (Mullins) Lucas
Kathy (Schmitt) Miley
Ann (Sullivan) Schwartz
Adrienne Segovia
Kevin Tribble
Peggy (Murphy) Wier
Class of 1980
Deidre (Chase) Clingen
Gwen (Zeisel) Johnson
Martin Thompson
Christine (Cribari) Tribble
Class of 1981
James Beverley
Catherine (Baloun) Beverley
Nick Gangas
Jill Goebel
William Gorman
Patrick O’Connor
James Radecki
Ann (Kunzler) Radecki
Kimberly (Caffarelli) Richmond
William Tumpane
Thomas Venchus
Henry Zeisel
Class of 1982
Beth Clynch
Lawrence Diedrick
Patricia (Dooley) Hart
Cheryl Kirk
Daniel Montgomery
Kathleen (Holler) Tumpane
Sharon (Zeisel) Venchus
Bruce Zidarich
Class of 1983
Robert Brandt
John Cady
Edward Chalifoux
Sean Jamieson
Matthew Kissane
Patricia (Bonnamy) Loftus
Sean Maher
Michael McCarthy
Daniel Owczarski
Class of 1984
Dina (Forillo) Cady
Lisa Conaghan
Robin (Finnerty) Freiburger
Joseph Grimes
Jana (Aiello) Maher
Cheryl (Jenkover) Montgomery
James Peterson
Timothy Peterson
Steven Shimkus
James Susic
Class of 1985
Jeannette (Workman) Bartosz
Leonard Grimsley
Thomas Mahoney
Scott Reid
Peter Scheffler
Class of 1986
Joseph Dunn
Michael Gilmartin
Jennifer (Latko) Johnson
Daniel Laughlin
Christina (Connelly) Loftus
Charles Raucci
Joseph Ream
Sharon (Almassey) Sather
Timothy Trotter
Class of 1987
Lisa Furey
Susan Marschall
Richard Martinello
Trudi (Wright) Mueller
Maureen (O'Neill) Nielsen
Timothy O'Connor
Peggy (Batten) O'Flaherty
Norman Sidler
Joseph Susic
Geraldine (Dulkoski) Viau
Class of 1988
Jeffrey Bukovsky
Kimberly (Gary) Bukovsky
Anders Da Silva
Michael Fitzpatrick
David Irion
Michelle Litos
Julie (Salerno) McGlade
Dennis Morajda
Daniel O’Connor
Michelle (Ptak) O’Connor
Vicki (Jaloszynski) Ream
Brian Ruddy
Class of 1989
Beth (Manzeske) Boghossian
James Cernugel
James Erdman
Brian Forde
Mark Francl
Roxanne (Mendez) Johnson
Tammy Kocher
Keith Shannon
Shannon (Mullins) Smith
John Susic
Jennifer (Herold) Thompson
John Vosicky
Class of 1990
Lucia Maffei
Class of 1991
Don Forsyth
John Gavin
Kerry Paprockas
Anna (Thallemer) Sharp
Class of 1992
William Angelakos
William Hoving
Amanda (Podraza) Hoving
Trisha (Engel) Campbell
Shannon (O’Connor) Ferris
Matthew McGivern
Richard Munaretto
Michael O’Hara
Christopher Reed
Class of 1994
Amy Caveney
Jennifer (Doll) Gedraitis
Brian Herold
Guy Papa
Michael Sullivan
Class of 1995
Colin Patrick Garvey
Kelly Ragonese
Class of 1996
Paul Gavin
Olivia (Garza) Gerk
Class of 1997
Jennifer (Long) Kavanagh
Michael Russo
Ann Elizabeth (Cull) Russ
Class of 1998
Nicole (Minucciani) Bernardi
Brendan Gallagher
Mary (Babel) Lauinger
Class of 1999
Christopher Dziewiatkowski
Julie (McGivern) Maddox
Class of 2000
Kathleen Izzo
Class of 2002
Tyler Neill
Class of 2003
Michael Alebich
Timothy McCahill
Ashley (Petrovich) Raimondi
Jessica (Sippel) Rodriguez
Class of 2005
Christopher Browne
Vincent Colletti
Martha (Grant) Hadjidakis
Class of 2006
James Falakos
Steven Montalto
Justine (Morano) Montalto
Class of 2007
Benjamin Cesaretti
Class of 2008
Brittany Aiyash
Class of 2009
Shannon Lucas
Charles Montgomery
Class of 2010
Nicholas Skwarek
Emily (Fahey) Steinberg
Class of 2011
Douglas Diedrick
Alexander Walters
Class of 2012
Matthew Leakakos
Mary Margaret South
Class of 2013
William Dawes
Catherine Kitz
Class of 2014
Cory Vecchio
Class of 2015
Jordan Lazowski
Class of 2016
Warren Dawes
Robert Gannon
Matthew Kaefer
Fiona Winfrey
Class of 2017
Alex Luka
Dominick Moran
Class of 2018
Ashley Johnson
Gabriella Rossi
Samuel Smith
Class of 2019
Olivia Herrmann
Class of 2020
Kylie Boyer
Shea Smith
Nathan Sniegowski
Class of 2022
Justin Gergen
Alumni Sightings
1. l to r: Jack Martin ‘12, Mitch Hoem ‘12, Julianna (Walsh) Hoem ‘12, Colleen Burke ‘12 (holding Mitch & Julainna's baby Audrey), Jessica (Stahelin) Eakes ‘12 and Diane Meifert ‘12 2. Class of 1974 celebrates 50 Years! 3. Kathy Rezny ‘79 and Pat Herold at our Fall Fashion Show; 4. Neil Fernandez ‘03 stopped in to see good friend, Principal Tiritilli in late July! 5. Former mascot, Matt Ernat ‘16 (and wite Grace) were able to cheer on our Broncos at our quarterfinal game in Princeton. 6. Soccer legacies Mason Esquivel ‘24, Kaden Esquivel ‘21, Christian Clarke ‘23 and Josh Ugorji ‘23 joined us ag Bronco Jamboree this falll; 7. Sarah Sniegowski ‘14 stopped in to bring lunch and say “hello’ in November (with Mr. Beirne); 8. Jenny Long Kavanagh ‘97 and daughter Emma enjoyed our October 13th Fashion Show.
TERRENCE DONAHUE ‘77 INDUCTED INTO THE EASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
Terrence Donahue ’77 was inducted this fall into the Eastern Illinois University Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1977 National Championship Cross Country team. After graduating from Montini, Terrence continued to inspire those around him at Eastern Illinois University, where he was a key member of a cross country team that defied the odds.
Reflecting on the team's success, Terrence emphasized the importance of camaraderie and a coach who focused on cultivating talent rather than simply recruiting it. “We went the extra mile for each other, not because we had to, but because we wanted to. This shared dedication and daily “discretionary effort” transformed average athletes into champions.”
The journey to the Hall of Fame has been very meaningful to Terrence. For him, this honor is not just about athletic achievement, but a reflection of the lifelong bonds and as a “a testimony to God’s faithfulness and goodness”
Terrence's time at Montini and EIU instilled in him the importance of internal motivation. He learned to push his limits, driven by the question: “How badly do you want to achieve your goal?” This mindset has carried him through life's toughest challenges, including a lifealtering accident where against all odds overcame four back surgeries and defied doctors' predictions that he “would never work again”. Terrence recalls that the discipline and determination he developed as a runner enabled him to overcome significant setbacks and succeed in a rewarding career in leadership development, training over 44,000 current and emerging leaders on 5 continents across 35 countries and contributing to 7 books and over 20 journal articles related to his profession.
MIKE BUKOVSKY '83 HONORED BY DARIEN DISTRICT 61
The Darien District 61 Educational Foundation recognized Mike Bukovsky '83 as its 2024 Starts in District 61 Honoree. The award recognizes students of District 61 who 'had a great start in District 61’ and are on exciting paths of learning, service, employment and adventure in their lives.' The program is designed to provide inspiration to current District 61 students.
Mike attended Hinsbrook School (now Mark DeLay) and Eisenhower Junior High School (EJH) for grades K-8, graduating in 1979 before moving on to high school at Montini Catholic. It was at EJH that he began his passion for wrestling, but was apparently a student of many talents. "At Hinsbrook I was involved in band and football, and at EJH I ran cross country in 7th grade and played football in 8th grade. I wrestled in 7th and 8th grade and also played softball both years. I was in the marching band in 7th grade and was also in the musical." Who knew!
Mike visited District 61 in October to speak to the students at Lace and Eisenhower and provide advice for a future full of success. "I am very fortunate and humbled to be receiving this award. I realize that I had a great childhood and was given the gift of an awesome foundation from so many impactful teachers and administrators in District 61. I am truly blessed!"
MELANIE BAVA COMELLA ‘10 RECEIVES LEWIS UNIVERISTY’S EDUCATIONIS LUMEN AWARD
Montini congratulates teacher and alumna, Melanie Bava Comella '10, on being the recipient of Lewis University's Educationis Lumen Award. The annual award, from the College of Education at Lewis University, is presented to a graduate and recognizes accomplishments as an educator, including: excellence in teaching, dedication to the teaching profession, commitment to Christian ideals of education, and inspiring and guiding others to make a difference.
Melanie was recommended for the award by Assistant Principal of Academics and Curriculum, Sara Lhotka. "Melanie exemplifies a commitment to teaching and learning and the development of learning communities here at Montini. Throughout her time here I have watched her grow into an exceptional teacher and role model to her students. I have witnessed her professional growth, her willingness to accept different assignments, and her ability to draw the best out of her students. Melanie is highly respected by both students and colleagues because she believes in her students and always gives her best while having high expectations of her students
Above: Mike with his Eisenhower Junior High English Teacher, Mrs. Krupicka (mother of Montini alumna, Caroline Krupicka Durkin '96)
Above: Melanie (center) with Lewis University Professors Hyeseong Lee (left) and Dr. Deb Augsburger (on right)
Montini Catholic Bronco Express
KATIE DOLL HUBENY ‘96 VALUES HER NEW ROLE AS ADMISSIONS DIRECTOR
We are honored to have Katie Doll Hubeny ‘96 at the helm of our Admissions efforts this year. (Katie served as Interim Admissions Director during our 2023-24 school year.) She took on the role as Montini’s Alumni Relations Director beginning in 2021 and valued her opportunities for involvement in rewarding alumni events including the Bronco Classic Golf Outing, Memorial Mass and class reunions.
“Luckily, I do get to stay in touch with many Montini alumni in my role as Admissions Director,” she says regarding this role she finds very rewarding. “I am very passionate about Catholic Education and about the Lasallian mission behind Montini Catholic. Our school is a special place and I truly enjoy sharing our mission with as many people as possible.”
“I really enjoy working at Montini Catholic. My two younger children are current students. I feel very lucky to be able to intertwine my work life and their school life. One of my favorite things is when I'm giving a tour to a prospective family during the school day and one of my children comes around the corner during a passing period and stops to give me a hug.”
Katie began her Montini legacy in 1992 as a Bronco freshman and met husband, Jim Hubeny ‘96 that very same year. They didn’t start dating until senior year - and the rest is Montini history! Married in 2001 - Katie and Jim are the proud parents of Montini alumni and future alumni - Jimmy '21, Ryan '22, Sean '25 and Mary Grace '28
MEET OUR DEVELOPMENT TEAM
New faces (and some familiar ones) smile from the offices of DeLaSalle Hall! We were happy to welcome Anne Marie Lowery as our new Director of Development in July. Anne Marie is responsible for the planning and implementation of an ongoing comprehensive development program that communicates Montini’s mission, goals and achievements. "Ultimately, she is responsible for executing a plan that will leverage existing and new partnerships to provide the resources necessary for a top notch Montini experience for our students," says President Kevin Beirne.
Anne Marie has worked in education for 20 years, assuming various roles including teacher, coach, moderator, administrator, and fundraiser. She most recently served as the Advancement Officer at Fenwick High School. "I believe deeply in the value of a Catholic education, which was a realization that came through experiences in public and private schools," she said. Raised in Lisle, Anne Marie currently resides in Westmont with her husband (Mike) and two children. (Read more about Anne Marie in our Spotlight!)
William Dawes '13 and Mary Albert are the newest additions to our Alumni Relations Team. The team works under the leadership of Anne Marie Lowery. William stepped up from his five year role as assistant in the Development Office and is Montini's Alumni Relations and Annual Gifts Officer, a role that includes overseeing the engagement, cultivation, and events pertaining to Bronco alumni who were involved in extracurriculars as Bronco students. William’s most recent event was our Alumni Memorial Mass on November 3rd. Mary serves as Montini's Alumni Relations Officer. She is also a familiar face to many Broncos as a graduate of St. Mary of Gostyn in Downers Grove. Mary will provide leadership and direction in alumni relations and special events with the primary goal of increasing alumni engagement while working with Montini's Advancement Team to create and execute strategies for engaging alumni through special events and volunteer opportunities. She is also the editor of our Bronco Bytes online newsletter.
Michelle Ptak O’Connor ‘88 is celebrating her 27th year at Montini and remains as Montini’s Development and Special Events Coordinator, focusing on the Annual Fund and planning events including the auction and our Bronco Classic Golf Outing. Michelle also coordinates community wide electronic communications and manages our Development Database.
We are very happy to have a top notch1 team working ‘behind the scenes’ to help Montini Catholic students thrive today and into the future!
Image: William Dawes ‘13, Michelle Ptak O’Connor ‘88, President Kevin Beirne, Anne Marie Lowery and Mary Albert
SPOTLIGHT 25 FACTS
Anne Marie Lowery
9. My all time favorite movie is Grosse Pointe Blank, just your typical romantic comedy about a hired assassin returning to his 10 year high school reunion. Hopefully none of our reunions ever end like that!
M1. As a precocious child, I helped my mom meet one of her best friends by wandering out of the house at 18 months and into the street where a neighbor (now friend) waited with me until my mom noticed my absence.
2. I was once a licensed New York City Sightseeing Guide.
3. There is a typo on my birth certificate, it lists my birth year as 1882, so I’m likely the oldest living person in America!
4
4. My birthday dinner consists of ham, elbow noodles, spinach, corn, and chocolate cake. While I definitely enjoy the food, I can’t say for certain I didn’t choose those items just to annoy my three siblings.
5. I studied abroad in Australia where I went on many great adventures. My favorite was a camping adventure in Charles Darwin National Park.
6. I grew up in Lisle, Illinois.
ontini’s new Development Director, Anne Marie Lowery, is truly multifaceted! She’s been a tour guide in New York, gone camping in Australia, and, according to her birth certificate, is the oldest person living today! But, it’s her understanding of the value of Lasallian education that brought her to Montini this year and we are glad to have her as a member of our Montini family! 10 13 19 25
7. The only book I have read more than once in my life is “A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving.
8. Nothing made me happier when I was a classroom teacher than a student saying, “I came to school today, just to see what might happen in your class.”
I wish I could sing.
11. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving.
12. I took a Pedagogy course in Germany one summer that brought together teachers from around the world. I worked with, learned from, and laughed with German teachers from Siberia, Moldova, Sicily, the Czech Republic, Spain, and the Azores of Portugal.
13. My husband and I went to the same high school at the same time but did not know each other.
14. I hugged Muhammed Ali at O’Hare International Airport as a kid and then promptly threw out his autograph.
15. I love the ocean. Nothing is more relaxing than looking out at its vastness and listening to the sounds of the waves.
16. I played tennis, basketball, and soccer in high school. Tennis is still my favorite sport to play.
17. If needed, I can play “Spinning Song” by Albert Elmenreich on the piano from memory.
18. For Valentine’s Day during my senior year of high school my mother (who I absolutely adore) gave everyone else in the family candy and me a gift certificate for a personal trainer. Showing that I am both mentally and physically tough.
19. I have two children, Michael and Harriet, who make me laugh everyday.
20. I put way too much effort into my Christmas Card.
21. I have a soft spot for General Hospital and soap operas in general.
22. The older I get the clearer it becomes that statistician or landscape designer are careers I also would have been successful in.
23 I enjoy a good crossword puzzle.
24. My favorite parable is the Good Samaritan, I have connected with it since I was a child and have lived my life trying to truly see all who enter into my life.
25. I have taught English, German, World History and American History. I have been a one to one aide for students with special abilities. I have worked as an administrator and fundraiser. Through every experience, I have learned about all the talented people it takes to provide a high quality Catholic education for all students. I feel grateful everyday to work with the faculty and staff of Montini.
Montini
KEEPING UP WITH THE
BRONCOS
MARRIAGES, ENGAGEMENTS,FUTURE BRONCOS, UPDATES IN MEMORIAM & SYMPATHIES
sympathies
To the Mazzei family on the passing of Robert Kuceba, father of Jennifer (Kuceba) Mazzei ’89.
To the Schumacher family on the passing of Sandra Ribich, sister of Diane (Kosmach) Schumacher ’71; sister-in-law of Mike Schumacher ‘71
To the Kramer family on the passing of Thomas Kramer, father of Keith ‘83, Kelly (Kramer) Blim ‘87,Tracey (Kramer) Cushing ‘88 and Trisha (Kramer) Meyer ‘94; grandfather of Jacob ‘21 and Megan ‘23 Blim.
To the Filipiak family on the passing of Tillie Filipiak, mother of former Montini Catholic faculty member Kathy Filipiak.
To the DeFilippis family on the passing of Bennie DeFilippis, father of Ben ’74 and Stephen ’76.
To the Muelleman family on the passing of Thomas Muelleman, father of Beth (Muelleman) Costello ‘85 and Cynthia (Muelleman) Wegner ‘88.
To the Clarke family on the passing of John Clarke, father of John ’85 and Kelly (Clarke) Donlea ’89.
To the Ferri family on the passing of Frank Ferri, father of Karen (Ferri) LaBarbera ‘76, Diane (Ferri) Bucheit ‘77, Margie (Ferri) Ploense ‘79, and Jean (Ferri) O’Connell ‘81.
To the Puglessi family on the passing of Deborah Puglessi, mother of Kelly (Puglessi) Giacolo ‘88 and Al ’89.
To the Kalas family on the passing of Tom Kalas, father of Marie ’13 and Tommy ’15.
To the McGivern family on the passing of Tom McGivern, father of Jennifer (McGivern) Winters ‘89, Matt McGivern ‘93 and Julie (McGivern) Maddox ‘99; grandfather of current Montini students Malin ‘26 and Matthew ‘28 McGivern.
To the Dietschweiler family on the passing of David Dietschweiler, father of David ’90.
To the Oliver family on the passing of Michael Oliver, brother of Mary (Oliver) Kern ’81, Therese (Oliver) Azzarello ’84, and Robert ’87.
To the Connely family on the passing of Suzanne Connely, mother of James ‘88 and Marianna (Connely) Pringle ‘92
in memoriAm
Kirk Holman ’79, brother of Keith ’78, Kris ’84, and the late Kevin ’82; brother-in-law of Michelle (Taylor) Holman ’77.
Mary (Virtue) Mathais ’71, sister of Ann (Virtue) Stefany ’70.
Vic Zitzer, part-time Montini faculty member and substitute teacher; brother-in-law of Margaret (Bowling) Zitzer ’74; uncle of Ellen (Zitzer) Bosman ’12.
Roberta Raike, Montini faculty member (20012021) and substitute teacher; mother of Ashley (Dennis) Aragones ‘04.
UPDATES
Ed O’Neill ’90 started a new position as the Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Continua Interiors
Kim (Ellinger) Barnes ’99 started a new position as the 2nd Head of Compliance Independent Assessment at CITI.
Mike Maxwell ’99 started a new position as the Vice President of Business Development at ConnectSearch, LLC.
Robert Orseske ’99 was accepted into the Forbes Business Council, an invitation-only community for successful business owners and leaders.
Ted Echemann ’01 started a new position as Director of Oncology Collaborations at Natera.
Abigail (Saez) Gualberto ‘01 was awarded a Top 100 Talent Acquisition Professional Award at the 2023 OnCon Icon Awards.
Amanda (Gagliani) Borrett ’02 started a new position as the Vice President of Business Development at Vivacity Infrastructure Group.
Tim McCahill ’03 is the Managing Partner of Transport Properties, a Chicago based real estate investment company that provides real estate solutions for outdoor storage uses in infill markets throughout the United States.
Courtney James ’04 was honored by DePaul University with their Spirit of DePaul Award. Instituted during DePaul’s Centennial celebration to highlight institutional Vincentian Values and their relation to the achievement of DePaul’s mission, the award also seeks to personally honor and recognize diverse members of the DePaul
Community for their leadership and service in the spirit of Saint Vincent de Paul.
Joan Daluga ’05 started a new position as the Director of Influencers and Ambassadors at Beauty Industry Group.
Garrett Goebel ’08 started a new position as a Director of Construction at Eagle Pro Home Solutions.
Justin Beyer ’11 started a new position as the Director of Business Development at New Path Construction and Consulting.
Austin Dzik ’11 started a new position as a Senior Accountant in Client Accounting and Advisory Services at KRD.
Jordan Gorrell ’11 started a new position as a National Account Manager at Bunzl Retail Services.
Ashton Tunk ’12 started a new position as an Audit Project Manager (Assistant Vice President) at Huntington National Bank
Ben Dobosenski ’13 started a new position as a Project Manager at Norcon, Inc.
Julia Luka ’14 started a new position as an Account Executive at Docusign.
Mike Maduko ’14 started a new position as an Associate Sales Representative at Stryker.
Clarissa Orr ’14 started a new position as a Program Planner at MDRT.
Madolyn Rusen ’14 won a Regional Emmy Award for “Special Events Program” with her production team at the Vegas Golden Knights.
Sarah Sniegowski ’14 started a new position as a Senior Manager in Customer Story Development and Product Marketing at Salesforce.
Jack Westerkamp ’16 started a new position as the Head of Growth at Breaking & Entering Media.
Michelle Glover ’18 works as a STEM Teacher in Indianapolis and is playing on a semi-professional volleyball team in the area.
Julia Marciniak ’20 started a new position as a Registered Nurse in the Surgical Intermediate Care Unit at Rush University Medical Center.
Brooke Morgan ’19 graduated from Chamberlain University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing and currently works as a Registered Nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove.
Myles Marciniak ’20 finished the Chicago Triathlon with a time of 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Scott West ’19 started a new position as an Inside Sales Representative at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, working with the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Tigers.
Mia Gramann ’19 graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Master of Accountancy degree.
Connor Bowe ’20 started a new position as a Logistics Account Executive at Total Quality Logistics.
Billy Cyze ’20 started a new position as a Quality Specialist at GE Aerospace.
Joe Knudtson ’20 started a new position as a Laboratory Assistant at Matrix Sciences.
Nick Mudd ’20 started a new position as the Chief Marketing & Sales Officer for Tykes N Hounds and Chicago Butcher Shops.
Aidan O’Connor ’20 graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a double minor in Mathematics and Theology and started a new position as a Sales Representative at GMS.
Patrick Peters ’20 started a new position as a Site IT System Analyst at PPG Paints in Missouri.
Hannah Ruddy ’20 started a new position as an Associate Digital Production Artist at Epsilon.
Christina Schieman ’20 started a new position as a Corporate Philanthropic Advisor at the Wisconsin Humane Society.
Shannon Williams ’20 graduated from St. Mary’s College (Indiana) and will be pursuing her M.Ed degreethrough the ACE Teaching Fellows Program at the University of Notre Dame. She will also be teaching 10th grade English in California for the next two years.
Edan Libby ‘20 is currently a junior undergraduate student at Ira A. Fulton School of Engineering at Arizona State University working towards a BA in Mechanical Engineering Systems. He earned an internship as a project engineer with SteelFab (Oregon)last summer and will continue with SteelFab next summer. “It was the passionate faculty at Montini who helped build my intellectual foundation and sparked my interest into ultimately wanting to pursue a career in engineering, and for that, I will be forever grateful. I have so many things to thank Montini for, especially instilling what it means to be a God fearing man, also not to mention the best four years of my life.”
Jayden Gertsen ‘19 is celebrating an incredible achievement of successfully completing a 17 day expedition to Everest Base Camp in Nepal! Jayden
reached an impressive altitude of 4,545 meters (18,192 feet)! This achievement is just one chapter in Jayden's backpacking adventure, which began in June 2024, (after graduating from Ferris State University). Traveling solo, he's explored Asia, Vietnam and Japan and is headed to Bhutan in South Asia. Then it's on to Meghalaya in Northeast India. His travels will then take him through Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and anywhere in between, before he plans to return home in summer 2025.
ENGAGEMENTS
Tyler Quick ’14 to Shelby Feltrop in July 2024.
Frank Vosicky ’14 to Kaitlin Aylward in June 2024.
Joe Koelle ’13 to Joanne Schiele in June 2024.
marriages
Emily Potempa ’10 and Michael Girdham ’14 on February 24, 2024.
Carina Greico ’15 and Tony Culjak on June 1st. Joyce Balash ’14 and Patrick Andrews on June 7th.
Joseph Florio ’08 and Marion Zerfoss on June 15th.
Joe Nitti ’13 and Tessa Schiffers on June 23rd. Tom Kalas ’15 and Emma Bjorklund on July 6th.
Christina Conforti ’16 married Dominic Carmignani on August 3, 2024.
Stephanie Reynolds ’13 and John Sullivan ’13 (left) were married on August 17, 2024.
Gabriella Biancalana ’16 married Francesco Ricchio on September 28, 2024.
Molly Marciniak ’14 married Ryan Simon on October 12, 2024.
future broncos
Abigail (Suarez) Gualberto ’01 and husband Chris welcomed daughter Charlotte Leoni in June 2024.
Bridget Kelly ’13 and husband Everett Van Horn welcomed son Rowan James on June 17, 2024.
Jordan Westerkamp ’12 and wife Cristina welcomed son Brooks Christopher (left) on July 30, 2024.
Giancarlo Iannota ’07 and wife Nora welcomed daughter Mary Elizabeth on July 3, 2024.
Tony ’06 and Megan (Steiner) Payne ’10 welcomed daughter Anne Marie (left) on August 27, 2024.
Frances (Meyer) Scott ’13 and husband Charlie welcomed daughter Ava Shannon on July 11, 2024. She joins sister, Mia.
REUNIONS
Our Class of 1974 celebrated their 50th reunion at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard on September 27th.
Our Class of 1975 had a mini-reunion with 7 classmates plus Diane (Tauscher) Ward ’70 at Greek Islands in July (top l to r): Debbie (Tauscher) Goff, Barbara Temborius, LeAnne (Metzger) Brown,
Nancy (Karnes) Caron, Bev (Lickteig) Loder, Nanci (Brach) Greene and Karen (Wing) Emard. Debbie (above in red) who lives in Ohio, was in town to attend the Rolling Stones concert with her husband and sister Diane.
Our Class of 1984 celebrated their 40th reunion at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard on September 27th.
Our Class of 1989 celebrated their 35th reunion at Driftwood Grille, Oakbrook Terrace on November 9th.
Our Class of 1999 will celebrate their 25th reunion on January 25, 2025 7PM at Brooks Kitchen & tap in Oakbrook Terrace. Register at: www.montini.org/reunion99.
Our Class of 2004 celebrated their 20th reunion at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard after the Montini football game on October 25th.
