Montini Catholic Bronco Express Spring 2022

SPRING 2022

Denis Block has a zeal for service

VOLLEYBALL MAKES HISTORY

anne westerkamp celebrates 30 years

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT “I know I have stated this several times throughout my 25 years here, but it’s worth repeating - it’s the people who make Montini Catholic such a special place.”

Bronco Express Spring 2022

upcoming events Maroon & Gold Gala - April 30 Founder’s Day - May 20 Commencement Ceremonies - May 22 Bronco Classic Golf Outing - August 12

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For student stories please contact Barbara Dawson, Print Media Coordinator at: bdawson@montini.org For alumni updates please email Katie Doll Hubeny’96, Alumni Relations Director at: alumni@montini.org

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Montini Catholic Bronco Express

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To receive your Bronco Express Newsletter electronically please contact Michelle Ptak O’Connor ‘88 at: moconnor@montini.org

Spring 2022

Dear Alumni and Friends, Another school year is about to close and it has been a very successful 56th year of Lasallian Catholic Education at Montini Catholic High School.

It has certainly been a very historic year with our Girls Volleyball Team winning its first State Championship, the Broncettes finishing 2nd at the IHSA State Dance Championship, the Girls Basketball team winning the GCAC Conference and IHSA Regional Championships, and our Boys Basketball Team winning the IHSA Regional Championship (the first since 83-84). Our Robotics Team finished 11th in the VEX (State) Robotics championship, ranking the hightest of all Catholic schools in Illinois and our Math Team qualified for the ICTM state championships for the 24th straight year.

Congratulations to all of our athletes achieving All Conference, All Area and All State recognitions.

Congratulations as well, to the Head Coaches of our winning teams - Trish Samolinski (Volleyball), who is the first female coach to win an IHSA state championship at Montini Catholic, Eugenia Scavone '84, (Broncettes), Shannon Herold Spanos '99 (Girls Basketball - Co-Coach of the Year), Adam DeMong (Boys Basketball), Pete Farina '87 (Robotics) and Chrissy McManus '88 (Math Team).

It has also been exciting to see so many alumni return to campus this year, consulting our students at our Lunch & Learn Program (page 11), participating in the Fashion Show, and simply stopping by to say ‘hello!’

Many of you also reconnected at your class reunions. Due to COVID restrictions postponing several events, we will be conducting not one, but three 50 Year Golden Anniversary Reunions this year (Class of 1971- June 12th; Class of 1970 - October 8-9th; and members of our Class of 1972 are currently working out their details).

We are looking forward to these wonderful celebrations.

Speaking of celebrations, this year our Maroon and Gold Gala will be held in person and the gala will be returning to the Montini Catholic campus on Saturday, April 30th. This year we are very proud to honor the following members of our school community with the following awards: Norm,'87 and Jennifer Sidler - Builders of Excellence Award Dennis McNicholas - Loyalty and Service Award Pete Farina, '87 - Faculty Dedication Award Brother Terence McLaughlin - Leadership Award Brother Thomas Harding, FSC - Leadership Award I know I have stated this several times throughout my 25 years at Montini Catholic, but it’s worth repeating it’s the people who make Montini Catholic such a special place. Our Gala honorees, the faculty and staff members featured in this issue (Anne Westerkamp, Nora Kinney, Denis Block and Michelle O'Connor), and the students highlighted for academic, athletic, extracurricular and service achievements, truly make a difference and touch the hearts of so many.

As always, thank you very much for all your support and generosity to Montini Catholic. I hope you and your loved ones have an enjoyable and relaxing summer and I hope many of you can join us for the 32nd Annual Bronco Classic Golf Outing on Friday, August 12th at St. Andrews Golf Club in West Chicago.

"May Jesus Live In Our Hearts..Forever" Sincerely,

Jim Segredo In all issues of Bronco Express, an asterisk (*) follows the names of our legacy students (students of alumni).

SCHOOL NEWS

ZEAL SERVICE for

pride in their students. Denis was nominated by President Segredo.

"Denis is an excellent role model for his students. He has a deep faith, a keen sense of what is ethical and moral behavior, a willingness to serve others and a great love for his country. As a Lasallian educator, Denis advocates to our students the importance of community service and helping those that are less fortunate than we are.”

This is Denis' 7th year teaching Theology at Montini - also devoting his time to moderating Lasallian Youth and assistant coaching the boys Tennis team. He has enthusiastically organized Habitat for Humanity trips on behalf of Montini for the past six years. (He and his team of nine left on March 27th to build homes for families in Kentucky during Spring Break). He co-moderated the March for Life (Washington D.C. trip) for seven years, and chaperoned during Montini’s 2018 International Samaritan mission trip to Jamaica.

Denis humbly lives a life of 'zeal for service'- involving himself in Lasallian ministries since college. And, has found that the most rewarding aspect of teaching at a Lasallian school is walking with the students as they grow in faith and knowledge.

C

Denis Block with Mr. Dennis Jensen, Commander of the Lombard Lilac Post 5815).

ongratulations to Theology teacher, Denis Block on being awarded the Smart/Maher VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) National Citizenship Education Teacher Award.

The award, presented by Illinois’ 19th District VFW, was created to recognize teachers who are concerned about the perpetuation of America's noblest traditions and highest ideals, instilling a sense of national

"Denis shows great interest in his students and he challenges them to get involved in service opportunities,” says Campus Minister, Michael Blanchette. “He truly helps them make the connection between what they learn in Theology classes and how they should act in their everyday lives. He is a true example of what it means to be Lasallian."

Principal Kevin Beirne agrees. "Denis is incredibly dedicated to our school community and the young people in it. His vocation is one of presence - he supports the students in their many endeavors outside the classroom and regularly creates opportunities for them to engage in wider community through service. There's no doubt that students are better prepared to improve the world around them when they leave us due to Denis' work and dedication."

"We were all so proud to learn that he was chosen for this award,” added Jim Segredo. “He is a true servant of God and country.”

MISSION THURSDAYS REVIVED Students have been encouraged to donate over the six Thursdays of Lent. Denis enlisted the help of Brother Chuck Gregor of Christian Brothers Midwest District, who is graciously letting Montini borrow a gift he received from the Ethiopian people. "Brother Chuck spent many years in Africa and has a close connection with those in Ethiopia. The country is divided between Christians and Muslims. The cross is a prominent symbol used by priests and all other Christians in Ethiopia," says Block. "We thought it would be a great idea to do a "traveling trophy" for the classroom that raised the most money per week." Each Thursday, the class raising the most money will receive the honor of displaying the crosses.

L to r: Sophomores Dominic Catalano, Matthew Mikolajczak and Mic Ranquist

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

With a desire to revive Montini’s traditional Mission Thursdays, Theology Teacher, Denis Block decided to focus collections on the Lenten practice of almsgiving to benefit our sister school, St. Joseph School in Nazaret, in Ethiopia.

Spring 2022 3

SCHOOL NEWS

BRONCOS . . . Making Headlines

REGIONAL CHAMP Congratulations to Math Team member, junior Alex Silveyra (with Math Team Coach Chrissie McManus ‘88 above), for bringing home the Individual Regional title (Algebra II) at the Math Teachers Association Invitational Math Competition (2/26). Not a stranger to excelling in math competitions, Alex also brought home a 4th place trophy earlier in February.

ILLINOIS’ TOP 10

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Twenty amazing seniors from our Class of 2022 have been recognized as Illinois State Scholars. This prestigious recognition, given annually by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), honors the academic achievements of high school students from across the state. These Montini Catholic seniors will join the ranks of top Illinois students honored as State Scholars since the designation began in 1958.

Illinois State Scholars represent approximately the top ten percent of high school seniors, hailing from 675 different high schools across the state. Selection is based on SAT, ACT and/or Prairie State Achievement Exam scores, and/or class rank at the end of the junior year. Congratulations to our newest Illinois State Scholars:

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

coat drive success

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In conjunction with Catholic Schools Week, members of our Bronco Football Team joined up with Campus Ministry to sponsor a coat drive benefiting John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County. The group worked with alumnus, Dr. Michael Alebich '03 who is the Clinical Documentation Physician Leader, Co-Director of Medical Student Programs and Attending Physician at Stroger. (He was also a member of Montini's football team!)

"Our entire Bronco community was extremely generous this year, as we collected and dropped off over 150 coats," said Coach Bukovsky ‘83 (above with l to r: Mario Florio ‘22, Michael Wind ‘23, Dr. Mike Alebich ‘03, Reeghan Boyer ‘22 and Jacolby Washington’22). "Dr.

Alebich and his staff were very appreciative, as this year's drive was even more successful than last year's!“ Spring 2022

Reeghan Boyer Joseph Calabrese Brendan Dwyer Sarah Ernat Mario Florio Ava Franklin Justin Gergen

Kyle Greenwood Lupe Herrmann Ryan Hubeny* Gwen Jones Isabelle Juda Audrey Kekstadt Julia Moran*

Charles Nielsen* Kathryn Peters* Erin Slaten Josh Tolefree Jessica Watts Sawyer White

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Congratulations to Spanish teacher, Nora Kinney, on her 20 years teaching at Montini Catholic.

Nora’s goal is to instill in all her students the desire for expanding their horizons by knowing different cultures and languages. She is honored to have experienced many rewarding moments at Montini. “As some students said to me once, 'To the teacher who is passionate about sharing her culture and language with her students,' - this pretty much defines me.”

SCHOOL NEWS

HIstory making SEASON For the third straight year in a row, Montini Catholic's Robotics Team (82997A) qualified for the 2022 VEX IL State Championship Tournament which was held on February 25-26) at Rich Township High School in Olympia Fields. With only three days to prepare (the team learned about their qualification on the Monday prior), the team strategized and focused on the improvements they were sure they could complete before the competition. "Your journey is not over yet," Robotics Coach and Technology Director, Mr Pete Farina '87 told his team upon learning the good news."After the final regular season tournament results from the Von Steuben Metro Science Academy in Chicago, our 'varsity' team is ranked 15th out of over 200 teams in Illinois," informed Farina. “We are the highest ranked private high school in the state!" The Bronco Robotic team was ranked 42nd after the January tournament, and in just a few weeks they made amazing progress, soaring to the top of the long list of state contenders. "For the third year in a row, we made it to State!" (Montini's State team was just two spots shy of qualifying for the World Tournament.)

Above photo: L to R: Dhruv Patel, Conor Kaefer, Coach Pete Farina, Matthew Silveyra, Wyatt Prater, Frank Flores, Anjay Dhir, Thomas Cyze, Alex Silveyra, Will Prater, Shree Muthukumaran, and Josh Tolefree; Not pictured: Miguel Jaojoco, Hayden Surrette and Michael Pogorelec

Senior Emily Narsolis was named Bronco Artist of the Month for March. "Emily is inspired by pop art, current musicians, and retro images," said teacher Stephanie Kuecker. "She has taken these interests and turned them into collage paintings.

Emily works both digitally and with fine art materials, watercolor paint, sharpie, and acrylic paint on canvas and her style is very unique.

"Emily is currently enrolled in Multi-Level Art Class, a unique course that allows students to follow their own passions and interests in exploring a particular artistic field of study. “This class has really allowed me to take time to create art.

I love being able to explore what I want and be as creative as I want to be."

DRAMA STUDENTS ENLIGHTEN AUDIENCES ON THE HISTORY OF VIDEO GAMES IN THEIR PRODUCTION OF "VIDEO GAMAPALOOZA"

"Gaming is a powerful and immersive medium that attracts children, young people and adults of all ages," said Cramer. "This particular production was a hilarious journey through the history of video games. We were all so excited because I think audiences of all ages could relate and found something nostalgic about it.

After watching, I hope parents went home and said to their sons or daughters, ‘Hey, want to play a game together?’ Maybe they'll bust out an old N64 and play the original ‘Mario Kart,’ then maybe those kids can show their parents the game they currently love! We were all excited to hear laughter from the audience, especially at a time when we could all use a little laughter."

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Drama students took audiences on a wild ride through the history of arcade games, computer games, and newfangled apps at the spring production of "Video Gamapalooza" in March. Theater Director, Kenn Cramer portrayed a "crusty Gen-X-er longing for the good ol’ days" and senior Diana Maimonis was the "plucky youngster who downloaded the good old days on their phone - in 12 seconds." The two intensely debated which generation dominates in the world of gaming.

Photo: Donkey Kong tournament contestants get serious. (John McNamara ‘22* and Vanessa Badillo ‘23; Nathan Camba ‘23 is the cameraman); Spring 2022 5

AT H L E T I C S

SPORTS WRAP-UP

––– SPORTS SHORTS ––––––––

SEASON STANDOUTS

Senior forward Andrew Stokes and junior guard Emory Marshall were named 4th Team All-Catholic League while senior forward Estevan Moreno was named Honorable Mention All-Catholic League. Marshall was named All-Area by the Daily Herald and Stokes was named All-Tournament team at the Fenton Thanksgiving Tournament, the York Jack Tosh Holiday Classic and Honorable Mention All-Area by the Daily Herald.

BASKETBALL

CCL/GCAC Regional Champions

Our Bronco Boys Basketball team finished the season strongly and won a 2A Regional Championship for the first time in 39 Years! The season featured a strong performance at Christmas at the Jack Tosh Holiday Classic and wins during the season over Catholic League powers Fenwick, De LaSalle and St. Ignatius. The schedule finished with the Broncos winning 4 of the last 6 regular season games and then 2 more in the playoffs. It was a strong year on the court for the Broncos and the future is bright!

Head Coach Adam DeMong told the Lombardian after defeating IC College Prep to win the Regional, “I knew this group of guys was capable of something like this. Our record doesn’t display what we truly are.

Our strength of schedule is really, really hard. We played a lot of really good schools and learned lessons that allowed us to be here. We’re playing as well as we can at the right time, and I’m happy about that. I expected us to be here. We’ve got a nice group of kids!"

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

The Lady Broncos had high hopes for the 2021/2022 season and they did not disappoint. After a shortened 20/21 season due to the pandemic, they were eager to play a full schedule against the state’s top teams in the highly competitive GCAC conference.

The Lady Broncos returned seniors Sawyer White (co-captain), Sam Mogilinski (co-captain), junior Shannon Blacher (co-captain), sophomores Victoria Matulevicius, Alyssa Epps and Riley White. Also adding senior Ava Franklin and freshman – Audrey Kinney and Shea Carver. Junior guard Maren Hoovel was sidelined with a knee injury. The addition of the exciting freshman class of Peyton Farrell, Lily Spanos*, Natalie Gartlan, Jordan Mogilinski, Avery Lucatorto and Arianna Naples rounded out the roster. The experience gained will bode well for Coach Spanos and the 22/23 Lady Broncos team.

The team came out extremely strong while facing tough conference opponents and went undefeated in the GCAC conference, winning the GCAC Conference Title. The team won 11 games in a row and continued their command by winning the Regional Title for the 17th year in a row. In the final game of the season, the Broncos lost the Sectional Final to Sycamore in a close game 57-56. The Lady Broncos ended the season 25-9. The twenty five wins season had many highlights and many accolades for our program.

Coach Shannon Spanos '99 was nominated as the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA), District 7, Co-Coach of the Year. She will be honored at the IBCA's 50th Annual Hall of Fame/Coach of the Year Banquet on April 30th at Redbird Arena. Go Broncos! We are looking forward to a great 2022/2023 season!

6 Spring 2022

Our Lady Broncos boasted four All-Conference selections – junior Shannon Blacher, sophomore Victoria Matulevicius, seniors Sam Mogilinski and Sawyer White.

The Illinois AP honored Shannon Blacher to the All-State team honorable mention.

Shannon Blacher (IBCA All-State 2nd Team) Victoria Matulevicius (IBCA All-State 3 rd Team) and Sawyer White (IBCA All-State special mention) were also honored by the IBCA for their efforts this season. Most importantly the Broncos are taking care of business in the class room. Our varsity roster has a cumulative GPA of 3.527 on a 4.0 scale!

congrats, COACH SPANOS,

IBCA CO-COACH

OF THE YEAR

LIKE FATHER LIKE DAUGHTER

Katelyn (Kat) Bell ‘25 (100 lb), secured her forever spot in the Bronco history books for being the Bronco's first female wrestler to compete in the inaugural Illinois High School Association Girls Wrestling State Series .

It is her father, Pat Bell '96 (pictured above with Kat), and uncle, Terry Bell' 98, both alumni and former wrestlers at Montini Catholic, who inspired her to pursue her interest in the sport.

"My dad definitely got me into wrestling. We would watch the college matches on TV together when I was little. He coaches at Naperville Centrals Wrestling Club and I remember he would always bring me to the meets when my younger brother (Jack) was competing. He really inspires me because of how much he loves wrestling and I’m very grateful to always have him in my corner at tournaments."

She admits that upon joining her Bronco team earlier in the school year she was a little intimidated on being the only girl on the team. However, her fears were quashed quickly, once she met her teammates. "The boys on my team are extremely supportive and helpful, nobody, whether it was coaches or teammates, treated me any different because I’m a girl!" Coach Sheppard's passionate approach to coaching his Broncos this season has greatly enhanced Kat's progress as well. "My experience with the team and Coach Sheppard was extremely positive, I feel I learned a lot this season and improved a lot from the first high school match I wrestled."

She took her loss at State hard, but quickly bounced back with the right attitude. " Because of this experience, I know what I am up against and I will use it as fuel to work harder!"

Kat's immediate plans for wrestling is to find success in the freestyle season. "Next year I plan on making it back and taking a State title. I really hope that next year we can also get some more girls into the wrestling room and hopefully get a girls team going!" It is certain that her experience and success this year on the team and as the first Bronco female wrestler to qualify for State will inspire other young women to take to the mat.

BRONCETTES

Our Broncettes scored yet another second place trophy in the IHSA 1A Dance Championship in January! Congratulations to: front row: Assistant Coach Taylor Scavone ‘15, Carissa Collier ‘23, Francesca Arroyo ‘24, Aerin Sidler ‘22*, Megan Canty ‘22*, Randi Moraga ‘23, Isabella Greco ‘25; second row: Annabelle Nelson ‘25, Emma Canty ‘23*, Claudia Sipchen ‘24, Assistant Coach Carrie Pionke ‘06, Head Coach Eugenia Scavone ‘84, Tessa Gramann ‘22 and Amanda Mrazek ‘23; back row: President Jim Segredo, Athletic Director Brian Casey ‘01 and Principal Kevin Beirne;

WRESTLING Three young Bronco wrestlers succeeded in their quest to State in February - Kat Bell ‘25* (read her story on the left), David Mayora ‘24 (152) and Jayden Colon ‘24 (145)! In the end, Jayden took home his first IHSA State Championship (2A), and David earned a respectable 3rd place finish. This was the Broncos’ first season under the leadership of new Head Coach Pernevalon Sheppard.

ALUMNI WRESTLING: Joe Norton ‘06, currently serves as the Head Womans and Mens Wrestling Coach at North Central College, and just completed the most historic and successful season in both programs' histories! After starting the Women's program just 3 years ago, it has quickly become a national powerhouse as this year's squad finished 4th place in the NCAA Division III Women's National Wrestling Tournament, and crowned a National Champion. Norton was voted the outstanding women's coach of the national tournament, and was also awarded the National Wrestling Coaches Association Women's Coach of the Year award at the conclusion of the season. In addition to the success of the Women's Program, Norton led the North Central Men's Wrestling Program to a 3rd place finish in the NCAA Division III Nationals, on the strength of 4 All American performances, including 2 National Champions, both first time achievements in the history of the men's program. Neither program had ever earned a trophy at the national tournament, and Coach Norton has the distinction of accomplishing this prestigious task twice in this single season!

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

"Competing at the first IHSA girls sanctioned State Championship was amazing! The girls there were very friendly. Since I was the only girl from my school and didn’t have a teammate to warm up with, girls from other schools would ask if we could warm up together which was really helpful. It was definitely a learning experience wrestling down at State!"

AT H L E T I C S

Recently, Montini enjoyed the distinction of being one of only a few high schools in the country to have multiple alums earn All American Status at The NCAA Division One Wrestling Tournament. Real Woods ‘18 competed for Stanford University and finished 6th at 141 pounds, and Will Lewan ‘18 competed for the University of Michigan and earned a 5th place finish at 157 pounds. Real and Will are only the second and third Division I All American Wrestlers that Montini Catholic has ever produced (Dylan Duncan ‘21).

Spring 2022 7

COVER STORY

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state Montini Catholic Bronco Express

In a spectacular show of fashion for a goal that was 46 years in the making (since the program’s inception in 1975) our 202122 Lady Broncos made history by bringing home Montini’s first Volleyball IHSA (2A) Championship title!

The girls ended an already spectacular 40-1 season (with 35 consecutive wins) in style. Senior team members had reached the sectional finals three times prior, but it was this year that their dreams were fulfilled. After winning their first Mother McCauley Preview earlier in the season, the girls only gained more momentum and never looked back, GCAC Red Division Champions, Regional Champions, Super-Sectional Champions . . . State Champions!

Congratulations, ladies! This year, you got it done!

8 Spring 2022

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Our Lady Broncos celebrate the ‘icing on the cake’ of a spectacular 40-1 season!

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champs Montini Catholic Bronco Express

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1. Top left - front ( l to r): Lucy D’Anca ‘22, Hailey Goetz ‘24, Reeghan Boyer ‘22, Sophia Boumans ‘24, Ella Herrmann ‘24; Back: Emily Labno ‘22, Madaline Kasallis ‘22*, Isabel Evenson ‘25, Audrey Kinney ‘25, Sienna Skarda ‘25, Jordan Heatherly ‘23, Haley Doucet ‘23*, Grace Tierney ‘23, Paige Pickering ‘22 and Ariana Joubert ‘22; 2. “1-2-3-Jump!’ No championship is complete with out the ceremonial jump! ; 3. The team top off their season in February at a special ring ceremony held center court (during a basketball halftime), Front ( l to r): Grace Tierney ‘23, Audrey Kinney ‘25, Haley Doucet ‘23*, Sophia Boumans ‘24, Lucy D'Anca ‘22, Reeghan Boyer ‘22, Ella Herrmann ‘24, Hailey Goetz ‘24 , and Sara Severin ‘23; Back: Sienna Skarda ‘25, Ariana Joubert ‘22, Paige Pickering ‘22, Isabel Evenson ‘25, Anna D'Anca ‘25, Jordan Heatherly ‘23 and Madalyn Kasallis ‘22*; 4. ‘The historic ball’ 5. Jordan Heatherly, Hailey Goetz and Sophia Boumans flash their rings; 6. Emily Labno and teammate share a moment and celebrate a job well done; 7. Students show their support during a November 11th ‘clap out’ as the girls head to state to complete their championship journey.

Spring 2022 13 9 Fall 2019

She also helped at practices with varsity girls basketball at Glenbard West and was the assistant varsity softball coach at Glenbard South in the spring. “Pam Miller was my PE teacher and softball coach at Montini,” said Anne. “She was then coaching volleyball and she invited me to help out with the summer camps.” Shortly after that, Anne was hired to coach sophomore girls’ volleyball.

She continued to coach at Montini in 1989 after being hired to teach PE and run athletics at St. Philip the Apostle (Addison). “At the end of the 92-93 school year, I found out Pam was leaving at Montini.

I interviewed for the vacancy with Br. Chris Kavanaugh and Kathy Filipiak.” In the fall of 1993 she was hired to teach PE and coach the Varsity Girls Volleyball Team. Anne considered this ‘the perfect scenario.’ “I could finally teach and coach in the same school!”

Since that time her roles at Montini have been quite numerous. In addition to teaching PE for over 20 years, Anne was Montini’s Head Girls Volleyball Coach (13 years). She began the Boys Volleyball program in 1999 (with Kathy Filipiak) and coached the team for 5 years. She has also been Assistant Girls Basketball Coach, Head Varsity Girls Softball Coach, a Class Moderator as well as a PE Department Chair. In 2009 she accepted the position as Dean of Students and became Director of Student Services in 2019.

“Of all these positions, teaching and coaching were the best,” Anne confirms. “I got to see students in an environment that was different from a traditional classroom. You really get to know their personalities, as there is a bit more freedom of expression. The intangibles - teamwork, strategy, sportsmanship, knowledge, working with all skill levels, safety, self-discipline and communication - are the big part of PE/coaching and a big part of navigating daily life.” She is honored to have gotten the chance to ‘touch lives’ in such a positive way.

30 She is very honored to be a part of the Montini Catholic community.

“The real reason I came back and stayed can be expressed in one word family. I am the 7th of 10 kids (5 brothers and 4 sisters). All of us graduated from Montini. (The school) has always felt like an extension of our family. We all wanted to go to Montini and we all have fond memories and stories, not only of our experiences here, but of the people. So many teachers and coaches have had a big impact on my siblings and me.”

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

She interviewed with Brother Kavanaugh, coached volleyball with Kathy Filipiak and ballroom danced with Coach A! In 30 short years, Anne Westerkamp ‘84 has become a Montini Catholic icon.

On this, her 30th year at Montini, we celebrate the day she accepted her diploma as a Bronco graduate. Little did she know at the time, but on that day, her road back to Montini was just beginning.

After graduation, Anne attended Illinois Benedictine College in Lisle, where she played four years each of volleyball, basketball and softball (mirroring her high school athletic involvement in the same sports).

She graduated with a degree in Physical Education in 1988. That fall Anne did her student teaching at St. Joan of Arc and Glenbard West, earning her teaching certificate in PE (K-12). “During that time, I was also the Assistant Women’s Volleyball (at IBC), the year the team took 2nd place in the nation in D3.”

10 Spring 2022

As a middle child, Montini was quite familiar to Anne long before her freshman year. “I grew up on the sidelines and in the bleachers of my older siblings’ athletic events. As young kids, my brother, Bob ‘83, and I would be running around or playing catch in the football stadium during games! People would always ask, ‘are you a little Wes?’’’

Twenty of her 44 nieces and nephews also graduated from Montini.

“There was a Westerkamp student at Montini for 44 straight years from 1972, the year my oldest brother (John ‘76) started Montini through 2016, the year my nephew, Jack ‘16, graduated!” Of course with Anne still here, technically, the Westerkamp streak continues. “What keeps me here is the fact that I believe in Catholic education. All of my personal and professional education has been in Catholic institutions.

I had a great experience as a student. The people at Montini were and are the heart of this school. I believe in its mission and values.”

When asked to take a quick trip down memory lane, Anne has no problem recalling her good times as both a student and a staff member.

“I remember sock hops and other dances, Saturday afternoon football games, getting out early for Wednesday afternoon playoff games, participating in sports, classes in the mobile homes and the teachers. There

ALUMNI NEWS

were many teachers and coaches that I really liked and eventually had the pleasure of working with.

Many of my teachers and coaches were very kind and super funny!”

“Fond memories as a staff member include faculty Christmas parties, coaching intramurals against the students, sending kids home early because the power was out or a pipe burst, any storytelling time with Coach Bu, PE championships, square dancing and ballroom dancing with Coach A, and did I mention the people?”

Navigating students through Covid for the last three school years as Dean of Students and Director of Student Services, has proven to be among her greatest of challenges. “Our students have had to deal with Covid for the last three school years and I think they should be commended for what they have accomplished.”

Mike Sullivan '94, Jenna (Pasquinelli) Fash '03, Tom Wasilowski '05 and Katie (Doll) Hubeny '96

ALUMNI RETURN TO HOST CAREER FOCUSED LUNCH & LEARNS Under the direction of Alumni Director, Katie Hubeny '96, Montini Catholic proudly announced its Lunch & Learn series this spring as an opportunity for juniors and seniors to learn more about potential careers.

"In December, students were invited to fill out a career survey regarding their interests," said Katie.

"From the survey, it was determined that the careers interesting most were Nursing, Mental Health, Social Work, Accounting, Finance and Engineering. We are so appreciative to our alumni for teaming up with us on this project."

"Our alumni spoke about their current job and future plans, their career path, what made them choose their profession/ major in college as well as the highs and the lows of their chosen careers," says Katie. "There was also an opportunity for students to ask questions and make connections for their future career goals."

Above: Anne and Assistant Principal Sara Lhotka at the 2016 Johnny Weiger Charity Game; Anne received the Faculty Dedication & Service Award at the 2018 Maroon & Gold Gala;

Lunch & Learn presenters were: Therese (Degnan) Southworth, PT, OCS’80, Vice President, Athletico; Matt Lyons’94, Chief Financial Officer, SA Consumer Products; Aimee Rogala ‘13, Project Engineer, Electronic Modules and Components, Navistar; Jenna (Pasquinelli) Fash, LCPC ‘03 Clinical Therapist & Divorce Mediator; Mike Sullivan, AIF ‘94, Managing Director & Wealth Advisor, The Wealth Management Group; Tom Wasilowski, CFA, CPA ‘05, Finance Manager, Amazon; Kelly (Kramer) Blim ‘86, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center ; Diana (Liberti) Krishnan ‘01, Nurse Care Coordinator/ Medical Social Worker, Rush University Hospital; AJ Melarkey, CPA ‘14, Senior Financial Analyst, Business Insights & Strategy, McDonald’s; Michelle Amanti '00, Cyber Security Analyst, DuPage County;

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

When she’s not putting out fires in the Dean’s office, you will probably find Anne doing something related to sports! “My hobbies are anything to do with sports - playing sports, watching sports - I love competition! I love being outdoors in the summer.

I love family and friends. I am also a sucker for a nice glass of cabernet and a Hallmark movie - gotta love romance and a happy ending!”

Spring 2022 11

ALUMNI NEWS

Alumni

Sightings 1 3 TEAMMATES REUNITE

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Montini Catholic was proud to celebrate alumni including members of its history making 1989 Lady Bronco Varsity Basketball Team (left) on January 13th. The Western Suburban Catholic Conference winners and members of Montini's first ever girls basketball team to make it to State were invited back to enjoy a little recognition. On February 11th, it was the mens’ turn when members of the Broncos historic Conference Championship 1992-93 and 1993-94 Varsity Basketball Teams (above) took center court to receive congratulatory cheers from Bronco fans past and present!

8 Montini Catholic Bronco Express

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1. Commander Craig Dziewiatkowski '01 stopped in to tour the school and say hello to former coach, Mike Bukovsky 2. Naval Academy student, Mitch West’17, also returned to say hello to Coach A and Coach Bu; 3. l to r: Coach Tim Lofgren, Jim Long '94, John Vosicky '89, Steve Sobkowiak '93, Brian Herold '94, Matt McGivern '93, Joe Bolduc '95, Pat Gibbons '95, Jim Wolak '94, Asst. Coach Bill Leeberg '70 4. Meg McKeague Wason ' 90, Natasha Dudek Konrad ' 90, Deanne Jenkover Yates '90, Jennifer Herold Thompson '89, Patty Gary Sebben '90 5. Former teammates Jeremiah Banks-Wall ‘20 and Nate Muersch ‘20 meet up on the field once more in November; 6. Traci Goldtine ‘04, upon hearing that Montini started an Uno club, decided to send them loads of new games from Mattel where she is the Sr. Project Manager for the Vehicles Brand Creative Team! 7. Gina Bonomo Stahl ‘97 and Melissa Bonomo Doucet ‘94 model furs from York Furrier at the Fashion Show to benefit the San Miguel Fund; 8. Norm Sidler ‘87 and Sue Jaros Lah ‘92 were also a hit at the Fashion Show.

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ALUMNI NEWS

Facts about michelle we never knew we didn’t know . . .

4. I was born in Louisville, Kentucky when my dad was stationed at Fort Knox.

5.

I had two stints as cheerleading coach at Montini.

6. After eating eggs prepared in every way possible as a kid, I can no longer look at them or eat them. However, I do make the best scrambled eggs in my family.

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My favorite movie is ‘Gone with the Wind’ – hands down. I love everything about the story, the cinematography and the characters. I even wanted to work the name Scarlett into one of my kids’ names.

8. My first concert was Rick Springfield.

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I’ve seen Barry Manilow in concert 3 times. He only gets better with age. His performance this last Christmas was the best one yet!

10. I had internships with the South Bend White Sox and the Chicago Bulls.

11. I love going to the ocean but hate going into the water. When I do make it in, I refuse to let my feet touch the bottom.

12. Tacos are my favorite food. I can turn anything into a taco.

Leftovers are no problem in my house – I just make it into taco.

S

13. I’m a Diet Coke connoisseur! I get a large Diet Coke from McDonald’s. almost every day. Just by looking, I can tell if it’s mixed properly or if it will be a disappointment.

he’s hands-down the one staff member who could use a little extra space to store the many hats she wears! From planning events including our Maroon & Gold Gala, to strategizing our school’s vital fundraising efforts, Montini Catholic Development Coordinator Michelle (Ptak) O’Connor ‘88 works resolutely behind the scenes to make sure our Lasallian school continues to thrive.

And, she does it all despite her hyperextended elbows!

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I have a Spanish minor that came in handy when I worked as a waitress at Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant.

(I hardly use it now, except to assist my kids with their Spanish homework.)

I won a WFLD – Channel 32 contest and was named the Ringling Brothers/Barnum Baily Queen of the Circus. As part of my prize, we received a behind the scenes look at the animals and I rode around the circus in a carriage.

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My ultimate dream is to own an island somewhere warm. Mybiggest regret so far – not studying abroad in college.

16. I was fortunate enough to see ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ 3 times – each with Donny Osmond as Joseph.

17. I am a ‘Law and Order’ nerd, especially ‘Law and Order: SVU.’ I don’t think there is an episode I haven’t seen. Favorite character from the franchise: Lenny Briscoe, he always had the best one liners.

18. I met my husband (Pat) in the bleachers at a White Sox game.

After discovering that we both went to Montini, I later figured out that he had a sister and brother at Montini when I was there.

19. I have hyperextended elbows!

20 I’m still waiting.

20.

The two gifts I always tell my kids I want are peace and quiet,

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

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I am terrified of birds and any animal that flies or has wings, so much so that I will go out of my way to avoid any and all contact!

14. Growing up I wanted to be novelist/poet. But, if I could go back and change my career path, I would go into Forensic Psychology or become a true crime writer.

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KEEPING UP WITH THE

BRONCOS Please e-mail your Bronco updates and/or photos to alumni@montini.org.

MARRIAGES, FUTURE BRONCOS, UPDATES & SYMPATHIES

Ellen (Howe) Christopherson ’77, sister of Elaine (Howe) Zager ’85 and Eileen (Howe) Turnbow ’88.

Angela (Saalfeld) Rossi-Kitowski ’83, sister of Richard Saalfeld ’87.

David Romito ‘97

sympathies

Margaret “Maggie” McCabe ’11

To the Svestka Family on the passing of Alexander Ricely, son of Susan (Svestka) Ricely ’81 and nephew of Steven Svestka ’84.

To the Puc Family on the passing of Dr. Frank Puc, father of Helena (Puc) Fellows ’84, Mark Puc ’85, Veronica Puc ’86, Frank Puc ’88, Kristina (Puc) Ondracek ’90 and Martin Puc ’03.

UPDATES

To the Spingola Family on the passing of Loretta Spingola, mother of the late Michael Spingola ’70 and Bill Spingola ’72; grandmother of Joseph Spingola ’11 and Alyssa Spingola ’17.

To the Dolce Family on the passing of Richard Dolce, father of David Dolce ’71.

To the Knudtson Family on the passing of Charles Knudtson Jr., father-in-law of Lia (Badalmenti) Knudtson ’89; grandfather of Joe Knudtson ’20 and Vinny Knudtson ’25.

To the Arlis Family on the passing of Clint Arlis, son of Tom Arlis ’72; nephew of the late Ed Arlis ’71, Michael Arlis ’73, George Arlis ’82 and John Arlis ’86.

To the Ceithaml Family on the passing of Donald Ceithaml, father of Julia Ceithaml ’00; uncle of Kevin Schulgen ’99.

To the Conley Family on the passing of Wilma Sue Conley, mother of Michael Conley ’70.

To the Salerno Family on the passing of Adam Salerno, father of Adam Salerno ’90 and Joe Salerno ’96; uncle of Rosemary Salerno ’85, Julie (Salerno) McGlade ’88 and Connie Salerno ’95.

To the Winchel Family on the passing of Patricia Winchel; mother of Kathy (Winchel) Gossen ’78, Ron Winchel ’80 and Margie (Winchel) Fugiel ’81.

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Philip Gorczyca ’74; brother of Daniel Gorczyca ’75, Ed Gorczyca ’77 and Robert Gorczyca ’83.

To the Bielski-Faber Family on the passing of Luella Gladys League, mother of Mary (Bielski) Faber ’70.

To the Sikora Family on the passing of Mr. Fran Sikora, father of Alex Sikora ’14 and Francesca Sikora ’16.

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Edward Nitzki ’71; brother of Diane (Nitzki) George ’72, Sue (Nitzki) Heskett ’74 and Joanne (Nitzki) Mueller ’77.

To the Vlahos Family on the passing of John Vlahos, father of Patricia (Vlahos) Brown ’04 and Sam Vlahos ’07.

To the Arnold Family on the passing of Virginia “Ginger” Arnold; mother of Patrick Arnold ’86, Michael Arnold ’87, Jeanne Arnold ’88, Brendan Arnold ’93 and Katie Arnold ’95; sister to Julie (Gatlin) Sakelakos ’74.

To the Voegtle Family on the passing of Kathleen “Kay” Voegtle, mother of Bernie Voegtle ’70 and Bernadette “Dolly” (Voegtle) Burlage ’72.

Spring 2022

To the Browne Family on the passing of Frances Browne, mother of Christopher Browne ’05, Mary (Browne) Drowns ’07, Matthew Browne ’08 and Jessica Browne ’17.

To the Size Family on the passing of Jim Size, father of Danielle (Size) Panico ’07, Michael Size ’09, Francesca Size ’20 and father-in-law of Stephanie (Green) Size ’09.

To the Barry Family on the passing of Lawrence Barry, father of Elaine Barry ’80, Maureen (Barry) VanScoit ’81, Eileen Barry ’82 and Larry Barry ’94.

To the Galiano Family on the passing of Dr. Jaime Alberto Galiano, father of Dr. Maribel Galiano-Goll ’83, Rommy Galiano ’85, Dr. Robert Galiano ’86, Evelyn Galiano-Putnam ’87 and Vladimir Galiano ’89.

To the Starvel Family on the passing of Donna Starvel, mother of Patti Anne (Starvel) Abear ’84, Kathy (Starvel) Lins ’85, Maureen (Starvel) Boyer ’87, Bob Starvel ’89, Jenni (Starvel) Young ’92; mother-in-law of Tony Abear ’83.

To the Cummane Family on the passing of Thomas Cummane, father of Mary Beth (Cummane) Provenzano ’82, Caroline (Cummane) Bean ’83, Barb (Cummane) Provenzano ’85, Tom Cummane ’88 and the late Debbie Cummane ’89.

Thomas Boeh ’76 has been named the Deputy Athletics Director at Arkansas State University. A veteran in athletics administration, Thomas has previously been a leader in athletics at Fresno State University, Ohio University and Northwestern University.

Maggie Thompson ’81, recently retired from the FDIC, runs a charity golf outing in Texas. The Maggie Thompson Invitational distributed over $9,000 to The Community Garden Kitchen and the Amity Hospice for Thanksgiving dinners.

Nancy (Kuster) Economou ’84 has recently released a book chronicling the story of her nonprofit organization, Watts of Love, and how it has impacted those living in the darkness of poverty with over 50,000 lights.

Lisa Suarez-Burkhart ’89 is working with Old St. Pat's Immigrant Refugee and Reform team to assist a Central American refugee family with rebuilding their lives in the area.

Daniel Lillig ’89 has accepted a new position with ExxonMobil as Engineering Manager for a Liquified Natural Gas Plant which includes a relocation to Yokohama, Japan. Daniel has been with ExxonMobil for over 20 years. During that time, he has had two other international placements in Canada and Australia.

in memoriam Richard Hudik, coach and educator; father of Katherine (Hudik) Carson ’87, Christine (Hudik) Draper ’89 and Tony Hudik ’92.

Jim Mackey, coach and educator.

Bob Lanis ’71; brother of Thomas Lanis ’73, Mary Kay Lanis ’75, Kenneth Lanis ’78, Paul Lanis ’79 and Richard Lanis ’81.

Craig Dziewiatkowski ’01 is a Commander in the United States Navy.

Kevin Tyrrell ’02 is the head baseball coach at the University of Chicago.

Giancarlo Iannotta ’07 has joined Mo2 Properties in Chicago as a real estate broker.

Steve Santay ’07 and Kelly Marshall were married on October 22, 2021. The bridal party included co-best men Alex Santay ’12 and Kevin Rutkowski ’06.

Maggie South ’12 was chosen as the Village of Westmont’s 2020 Citizen of the Year, an award given each year to a resident for their exemplary service to the community. Maggie was chosen for her volunteer work in the Village and her work to preserve Westmont’s history in conjunction with the Village’s centennial celebrations.

Fiona Winfrey ’16 earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Elmhurst University.

John Murray ’17 is a news producer at ABC affiliate KCRG-TV in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Montini Theology teacher, Denis Block, and Spanish teacher, Jennifer Baron, were married on February 19, 2022.

Caeley O’Connor ’18 will graduate from Lewis University this May with a degree in Journalism.

She has been working as an opinion article writer and editor for The Lewis Flyer, Lewis University’s student newspaper.

Congratulations to Stefanie Flores ’21 on being elected as a senator to the Student Government at Loyola University, Chicago.

faculty factoids

future broncos

Julia Briggs ’18 has been inducted into Alpha Sigma Nu, the Honor Society of Jesuit Colleges and Universities at Loyola University, Chicago.

Enya O’Flaherty ’20 traveled to Panama in January with the University of Miami chapter of the Global Business Brigade to work with the community of Los Pilares in Cocle, Panama.

Enya spent a week facilitating financial literacy workshops and providing consulting to microenterprises on topics ranging from marketing and accounting to budgeting and balance sheets.

ALUMNI NEWS

Krissy (Binder) Knightly ’03 and her husband Tommy welcomed Jack Thomas on December 31, 2021 weighing in at 6lbs, 8oz. He joins big brothers Jimmy and Ryan, and big sister Annie.

Kate (Styczynski) Olchawa ’04 and her husband welcomed Whitney Rose on January 18, 2022 weighing 6lbs, 2oz.

Montini Music Director, Donnie Glowinski, and his wife, Katie, welcomed a daughter, Maeve Sylvia, on December 20, 2021.

Nick Fisch '21, a freshman at Illinois Wesleyn University, took second in the 3000 meter run with a time of 9:10.79 at IWU's home track meet on February 18 against Bendictine University, Heartland Community College and Millikin University.

Danielle Wyncott ’99 is a senior manager in commercial finance in San Diego where she resides with her family.

Matt Andriano '96 has been promoted to First VP of Investments at Marcus & Millichap.

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Frank Montalto '11 has been promoted to First VP of Capital Markets at Marcus & Millichap.

Sam Asta ‘15 and Nicole Bartosz ‘15 (left) are engaged to be married in October 2022.

Nolan Coyle ’16 and Amelia Fletcher were married on December 12, 2021. Standing up in the wedding were alumni Zach Coyle ’13, Danny Kopsky ’16 and Joe Mondschean ’16.

1985 2001

reunions The Class of 1985 celebrated their 36th on November 13 at LaBarra Restaurant in Oak Brook.

The Class of 2001 celebrated their 20th on November 13 at Reserve 22 in Glen Ellyn.

The Class of 2015 celebrated their 6th on January 29 at O’Neill’s in Lombard.

The Class of 2016 will be celebrating their 6th on April 9 at O’Neill’s in Lombard.

The Class of 1971 will be celebrating their 50th reunion on Sunday, June 12 at Montini Catholic.

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

marriages & engagements

Spring 2022 15

BRONCO EXPRESS Montini Catholic High School 19W070 16th Street Lombard, IL 60148 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

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Thank you!

One Montini scholarship

support

BroncoClassicGolf Outing St. Andrews Golf & Country Club, West Chicago

FRIDAY, August 12, 2022

Beginning on May 9th, we’ll present information on how how you can support Bronco students via our many scholarship fund opportunities.

Thank you for your support.