“When you explore this latest Bronco Express, take a moment to revel in what we’ve been able to accomplish with your support.” – President Kevin Beirne
Dear Montini Catholic Family members,
One of the unique and powerful qualities of working in education is that annually we have the opportunity to close out one school year and start a new one. This leads to natural moments of reflection in May and renewal in August. As I thought about that in relation to my own work, I was reminded of my first communication to the Montini Catholic High School community as President almost one year ago. There’s no quiz here to see if you read my letter then, so I’ll simply remind you of what I set out to do last summer. I described my goals of review, renew, and aspire to excellence. As the 2023-24 school year has drawn to a close (you’ll see much more about that in this edition of Bronco Express!) I’m happy to report that in a broad sense we’ve had a tremendously successful school year and in an individual sense, I’m proud of the progress we've made in meeting these goals.
For me, much of this year has been spent reviewing the work that we do in order to establish the foundation needed for renewal. That means spending a great deal of time listening to many of you and others from various stakeholder groups. It means working with our staff to establish new and more effective practices and procedures. It means developing a network of counterparts from other successful Catholic and Lasallian schools throughout the midwest. It means taking advantage of professional development opportunities to expand my foundational knowledge. While doing this work we’ve also had a very successful admissions effort and expect an enrollment growth of 6% next year, are on pace to meet our overall development goals, will end the year with modest operating income, and successfully navigating the sunset of the Invest in Kids Act, unique staffing challenges, and significant buildings and grounds issues. All in all, I’m confident that the work we put in during this first year will prove a worthwhile investment in the renewal to come.
As we look to the future, I am enthused by what’s happening in our school community. Our students continue to amaze with their accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom. We’ve seen tremendous growth in our fine and performing arts programs as well as our Peer Ministry organization. We have a dynamic school leadership team poised to usher in a new era of excellence driven by creative and student centered academic and extracurricular programming, decision-making rooted in our Lasallian tradition, and a renewed sense of what it means to be a Montini Bronco. It truly is an exciting time to be part of our school community! When you explore this latest Bronco Express, take a moment to revel in what we’ve been able to accomplish with your support and consider how you might further join in the excitement that’s to come!
Sincerely,
Kevin Beirne President
Bronco Express
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 Katie Doll Hubeny ‘96 khubeny@montini.org
Montini President Kevin Beirne kbeirne@montini.org
Montini Principal Chris Tiritilli ctiritilli@montini.org
In every issue of Bronco Express, an asterisk (*) follows the names of our legacy students (students of alumni).
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
Summer 2024
One-hundred
MORE IN 24
Montini Catholic said farewell to 100 graduating seniors and hello to our newest group of alumni on May 19th at our 55th Baccalaureate Mass & Commencement Ceremony.
Nearly 8,000 Montini graduates have lifted their graduation caps in celebration of their Bronco legacies, their cherished memories and their promising futures! Every year there are tears of joy, best friend embraces and subtle thanksgivings to the parents and caregivers who foresaw the value of a Lasallian education at Montini. And, this year was no different.
Our commencement ceremonies wrapped up two weeks of graduation celebrations and activities including Senior Day at Top Golf, our Monti-ni Carlo themed prom, Academic Awards Banquet and Founder's Day Award Ceremony.
"This is a bittersweet moment for me, and likely each of you," said Principal Chris Tiritilli. "I am sure you are excited about the future ahead of you, the fun of your last summer before college, knowing a complete and total fresh start is in front of you, and celebrating all of your successes and accomplishments throughout high school. I am also sure you will find warmth and comfort in the nostalgia that has been these high school years here at Montini - the friendships and memories you have made, lessons learned, obstacles overcome, tears, laughter and joy that you have felt.
I am confident and proud to say that you all are an example of what we expect our Montini graduates to be."
Montini Catholic Bronco Express
Photo above: Hailey Goetz and Quinn Boyer More on Graduation on pages 8-9.
May 17, 2024
e gathered as a school on Founder’s Day 2024, not to say ‘goodbye’ but to say ‘Thanks’ - for ways in which our students have fundamentally made us a better, stronger and more unified school community. The year’s program began with prayer and a new tradition was introduced - an address by Student Government president Ruben Galvan*, who provided his insights on what it means to be a part of Montini’s Lasallian community. Congratulations to all of our 2023-2024 award recipients.
1 - Student Government President, Ruben Galvan,* addresses the student body; 2 - Principal Tiritilli and Assistant Principal Sara Lhotka share a smile during the procession; 3 - President Kevin Beirne; 4 - Principal Tiritilli congratulates Valedictorian Riley White and Salutatorian, Marin Ferris*; 5 - Principal Beirne presents Montini’s traditional St. John Baptist de Lasalle medal to Angelica Gatling; 6 - Dominic Catalano and Skye Houston were awarded the Mother Teresa Award for Campus Ministry (with Campus Minister, Michael Blanchette); 7 - Nicole Navas; 8 - Dhruv Patel; 9 - Junior Lily Spanos *accepts the Weisenburger Family Scholarship (from Andrew Weisenburger ‘05 and Wally Weisenburger ‘75); 10 - Gianna Luna; 11 - Montini’s 2023-24 Robotics Team celebrates a successful season that culminated in a second consecutive trip to Texas (Dallas) to compete at the VEX Robotics Worlds Championship - l to r: Hayden Surrette, Conor Kaefer, Coach Pete Farina ‘87, Isabella Jaojoco, Dhruv Patel, Anjay Dhir, Damjan Pasic-Hernandez, Wyatt Prater, Matthew Silveyra and Geethan Siram;
announcing her promotion. "She possesses a unique balance of qualifications and credentials for the position, as well as experience within our school, while also maintaining a fresh perspective on ways that we can continue to grow and develop to best meet the needs of our students and enhance their overall experience at Montini Catholic."
Beginning her career in education at Montini Catholic in the fall of 2020, Ms. Johnson was named Director of the Signum Fidei Program in the fall of 2023.
“After five incredible years of teaching, obtaining my Master’s in Educational Administration, and earning my LBS1 certificate, I am beyond excited to be stepping into a new role as Assistant Principal for Student Services," said Ms. Johnson. "This opportunity fills me with immense joy and gratitude, as I embark
Ready to SerVE I
n April, Montini administration was happy to announce the promotion of Alexxis (Lexxi) Johnson to Assistant Principal for Student Services. She officially assumed the position on June 1st.
"Ms. Johnson is completing her fourth year at Montini teaching English, and her first year as the Director of our Signum Fidei program," said Principal Chris Tiritilli in his letter
on this next chapter in my journey within our school community. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable spirit and dedication of our students, teachers, and families, and I am deeply honored to continue serving alongside each and every one of you in this new capacity. I am incredibly passionate about education and fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.”
Get to know Lexxi a little better by reading our “20 Things” feature on page 12.
BARRY BRIGGS’ RETIREMENT
Math and Technology Teacher and Head Varsity Soccer Coach, Barry Briggs, who just completed his 18th year at Montini, was honored on Founder's Day.
During his tenure he has taught eleven different Math courses and seven Technology courses. Like a true Lasallian educator, Mr. Briggs impacted young people outside and inside the classroom. For many years he contributed to Montini's incredibly successful Math Team as Assistant Varsity Coach. As Varsity Soccer Coach (boys and girls), he could also be seen on the sidelines, displaying a passion not just for the sport, but for coaching it. "Mr. Briggs never shied away from getting on the pitch with his players showing them how it was done, rather than just telling them," said President Beirne. "That same competitive spirit was on display this year as he was the heart and soul of our faculty intramural team."
6th PLACE
Our Math Team celebrated their 6th Place finish at State on April 6th. Our Broncos are the only Catholic team in Division 2A to qualify for the ICTM State Meet every consecutive year since 2001 - with a top 10 finish at State each year! Go, Broncos! State
-
10
l to r:
For those of us who’ve had the privilege of working with Mr. Briggs, we’ve come to know someone who was always willing to pitch in, always upbeat and positive, and could tell a great story. Have an awesome retirement, Mr. Briggs.
Decorated
(Top
Placewinners) Front row
Olivia Naso, Nishika Karthi, Jasmine Brunke, Daniel Sherman, Joshua Brunke, Issy Jaojoco, YingYing (Naomi) Tang, Zongyuan (Chailyn) Lyu, Seoyeon Park, Tommy Healy and Gavin Conway; Back row l to r: Chis Zayed, Julian D'Anca, Geethan Siram, Matthew Silveyra, Sam Hemmersmeier, Anjay Dhir, Conor Kaefer, Ray Li, Zihang (Zion) Yang and Charlie Paciga;
Lasallian Educator of the Year
Teacher Beth DiMarco (above) is this year’s Lasallian Educator of the Year. She joined Montini as a teacher in 2018 and President Beirne describes her as a dedicated, creative, energetic, driven, thoughtful, and gifted Lasallian educator. We agree! In her relatively short time at Montini Mrs. DiMarco has worn many hatsteaching in three academic departments and leading 11 different courses. She served as an interim Department Chair this year, served on our Academic Advisory Council and Grade Scale Change Committee and moderated the French Club. After directing the Theater Program in 2019, this year she enthusiasitcally served as costume designer and choreographer. “At a school like Montini it takes people like Mrs. DiMarco who are all-in to make an excellent Bronco experience a reality for our students,” said President Beirne. “She embodies what it means to be a Lasallian teacher at Montini.
Lasallian Partner Award
Our Lasallian partner award this year went to Barbara Dawson, Communications, Graphic Design and Social Media Manager. “She is one of the most talented people I’ve ever had the opportunity to work with,” said President Beirne. “On a daily basis, she makes all of us look better - literally. Whether she is making our annual viewbook, creating social media posts, writing press releases about all the wonderful work being done by our students and faculty, producing this year’s yearbook, taking photos at every Montini event, or moderating our Respect for Life Club, this is a tremendous Montini creative force. What’s, with the demands on her time and talent so high, because she does such great work, her workload is immense! Yet she handles requests with grace and patience. What’s clear though is that she does this not because it’s her job but because she loves Montini and and loves our students and her colleagues. For these last ten years we have been so blessed and are a better community because she’s part of it.”
at SpringtimeMontini
Spring is always a great time to be a Bronco with so much going on and the bittersweet end of another great school year approaching.
1. On Friday, April 24, our Prom King (Rory O’Connor*) and Queen (Betsy Beirne) were crowned. 2 and 3. On May 14th our seniors gathered for their last sunset together as a class, signing yearbooks and t-shirts and saying goodbyes: Francesca Arroyo and Isabella Gatto; 4. Also on May 14th our seniors enjoyed Senior Day, signing off on ‘the rock’ (Michael Pogorelec) before a day at Top Golf! 5. May 10th marked the day of our traditional outdoor BBBQ (Bronco Barbecue) - always a fun time. Christian Beahan ‘27, Jack Spanos ‘27* and Johnathan Neustadt ‘27*; 6. On April 8th, approximately 2PM, you could find many students and staff outside, looking up, at the Great North American Eclipse (Jonathan Kosinski ‘26 and Malin McGivern ‘26); 7. Lastly this spring, we elected our 24-25 Student Government officers, congratulations to LIly Spanos ‘25,* Isabel Evenson ‘25, Jonny Kosinski ‘26 and Michael May ‘26.
LEGACies
For ten members of our Class of 2024, attending Montini Catholic was a family tradition - having a mother or father, or both, who, too, have sat in the same classrooms at Montini Catholic. Congratulations to these graduates who will forever share this lifelong“Bronco Pride”connection with their parent(s).
On Cover: Tanner Sebben ‘24, Patricia (Gary) Sebben ‘90; Top l to r: 1. Zander Montgomery ‘24, Daniel ‘82 & Cheryl (Jenkover) Montgomery ’84; 2. Olivia Mateja ‘24, Jim Reed ’99 (step-father) 3. Cassius Campbell ‘24, Trisha (Engel) Campbell ‘93; Middle Row l to r: 1. Marin Ferris ‘24, Shannon (O’Connor) Ferris ‘93; 2. Collin Angelakos ‘24, William Angelakos ‘92; Bottom Row l to r: 1. Rory O’Connor ‘24, Patrick ’81 & Michelle (Ptak) O’Connor ’88; 2. Erin Grimsley ‘24, Leonard Grimsley ‘85; 3. Colleen Elizabeth Considine ‘24, Michael Considine ‘86; Not pictured: Ruben Galvan ‘24 and Enrico Mazzei ’85 (step-father)
Thank you to these alumni/ alumni parents who shared their sentiments with us on their historic day.
Very Different Graduations!
Covid brought about many changes for everyone. Among the many changes in Montini’s little corner of the world were our graduation ceremonies. We asked families who experienced a different graduation (drive-up, outdoor & traditional) with each of their graduates to share there thoughts!
Colleen ‘24 is our second child to make the graduation walk at Montini. So proud of how Colleen took advantage of every opportunity presented and truly seized her moment as a Bronco. The Considine’s are forever fused with the spirit of the greater Montini Family. Each time I step on campus for some athletic, musical, or academic event for the kids, it feels like coming home. And to watch your kids find success, nurture their talents, and spread their wings while walking the same hallways I did a million years ago – is a special feeling. Come let us cheer for you Montini!
- Mike Considine ‘86
Having my son, Collin Angelakos, attend Montini Catholic was a special experience for me. It was fun to be able to walk the halls of Montini again and see my former teachers and coaches as a parent. Sharing my stories with my son and knowing that he really understood what my high school career was like is something that cannot be described. There was an easy shorthand that came about because he attended Montini. He could come home and tell me what happened in school and I could ask questions about his day and share his in his stories in a way that I couldn’t have done if I hadn’t attended Montini. I am proud to be a Montini alum and I am even more proud to be the parent of one.
- Bill Angelakos ‘92
”From Miles and Melanie Petersen
(Photo – Cooper’s graduation, Duffy Memorial Stadium)
We found this year’s graduation to be a very nice experience. In fact, all the events leading up to the actual ceremony were very well planned, organized and implemented. The ceremony itself was very special in that I felt the class really was able to be celebrated for their achievements, and the Mass was very nice as well. However, the drive-up graduation in 2020 will always be special to me, as I will NEVER forget how emotional Abby was in the back seat of the car as we drove through the parking lot and she was able to see all of her teachers there to wave goodbye. At that point in May/June 2020, things were still very much uncertain, so allowing these kids some measure of closure was truly a wonderful thing. And finally…the graduation on the football field was perfect as well. I know you can’t schedule it outside due to our unpredictable weather, but it sure was a nice evening and I enjoyed that ceremony a great deal as well.
21 20
From Anthony and Tammy Catalano
(Photo – Anthony’s ‘Drive-Up’ graduation)
Our family is beyond blessed to have had all three boys graduate from Montini and in three different ways! Words can not express the amount of empathy and support that was given during those unprecedented times. We will forever be grateful to have been given the opportunity to see our boys walk across a stage and receive their diplomas.
24
From Dan and Susan Hemmersmeir (Photo – Sam’s traditional graduation/Field House) Montini has been very good to our family. We are so proud to have four well-prepared graduates, and we are excited about our fifth child starting in the fall. Montini did a beautiful job with all of the graduations - even when limited due to Covid. Our favorite was probably the one on the football field, as it was such a beautiful afternoon and evening. I was thankful, though, when the Mass was brought back (at the traditional ceremony in the Field House), as that is such an important part of celebrating.
24
From Colleen Marks
Family
(Photo – Matt’s traditional graduation/Field House) When I asked my kids about graduation, they all loved their own ceremony. Lauren ‘17 had the traditional Baccalaureate Mass. Samantha ‘20 had a drive through ceremony in the parking lot. Mary ‘21 was on the football field. We came full circle to Matt ‘24 with the traditional Baccalaureate Mass. As a parent, I think Montini did a great job making each ceremony unique, special and equally important to all graduates. Personally, I have always loved the traditional Baccalaureate Mass, but I did not feel like the other ceremonies were lacking. It was amazing getting to experience all four through the years.
Petersen Family (Abby '20, Cooper '21, Danny '24)
The Catalano Family (Anthony ‘20 Vincent ‘21, Dominic 24)
Hemmersmeier Family (Jack '20, Maria '21, Luke '23, Sam '24)
The Marks/Mikolajczak
(Lauren '17, Samantha '20, Mary '21, Matt '24)
SPORTS WRAP-UPS Spring
BASEBALL
Montini Baseball had another strong showing in 2024! Led by 12 seniors, they finished the year with over 20 wins (20-13), and coming in 2nd place in the CCL White Division. The team competed in the prestigious Stevies Way Tournament going 2-2 with a huge win over 2nd in Indiana Powerhouse Andrean H.S. and came up just short vs. Wheaton Academy in the IHSA 3A Regional Final.
Offensively, seniors Quinn Boyer ‘24 (Miami Ohio Commit) led the team in hitting, batting .514 on the season. Cash Campbell ‘24* (Iowa Commit) hammered a team leading 8 Home Runs, 40 RBI's, with 40 Runs Scored. AJ Manganello ‘24 (Northwood Commit) also had a strong showing batting .402 with 9 Doubles, and 2 Home Runs.
The pitching staff also did great things this year, breaking the school record for Strikeouts as steam with 270 (the old record was 265 set in 2023). Jack Calcagno ‘24 (Tampa Commit) and Blake Heyer ‘26 anchored the pitching staff. Jack posted a 6-2 Record with Team Leading 75 K's and a 2.850 ERA. Blake earned a team leading 7 wins with 55 K's and a 1.909 ERA.
The following 4 players earned All Conference CCL: Quinn Boyer, Cash Campbell*, AJ Manganello and Jack Calcagno with Quinn Boyer earning CCL White Division Co-Player of the year accolades.
LACROSSE
Our Broncos had an impressive season, finishing with a 13-9 record and making it to the semifinals in the playoffs. The team boasted three all-conference and all-sectional players: Annika Bartell, Ava Sebben, and Miley Brunski. Both Annika and Ava also received all-state honorable mentions.
Ava Sebben ‘25 was ranked 16th nationally for assists and 6th in Illinois for overall points. Miley Brunski ‘26 ranked 9th overall for points in Illinois, and Annika Bartell ‘25 ranked 12th. Additionally, Sophia Fountain ‘25 was ranked 2nd overall for saves in the West Suburban Conference and achieved over 500 career saves.
Coach Jacqueline Ruf is “continually impressed by the talent and dedication these girls bring to lacrosse. This season, we had players who had never touched a lacrosse stick before, and it's incredible to see how much they've grown throughout the season.”
SOCCER
This year our Lady Broncos showcased exceptional teamwork, skill and resilience. With each game, they grew stronger as a unit, facing challenges head-on and celebrating victories together. The ladies went 5-1 in our Catholic League Conference, celebrating 5 All Conference athletes, Lily Cruz ‘25, Avery Lucatorto ‘25, Anna Lee DeFeo ‘25*, Naomy Gonzalez ‘25 and Riley White ‘24. As the season came to a close, we reflected with pride on our achievements and look forward to building on our success in the seasons ahead. We will truly miss our seniors, Riley, Lucy Pacelli and Marin Ferris*, and wish them the best!
Quinn Boyer, CCL Player of the Year
Ava Sebben
Sydney Gertsen
Avery Lucatorto
This year intramurals were revived thanks to the efforts of Dean/Student Services Director, Anne Westerkamp ‘84. Student teams battled it out throughout the season for a win and a chance to take on the faculty team! Although the faculty were pretty much ‘taken to the cleaners’ at every match-up - the final wiffle ball showdown will go down in Bronco history as the “Faculty Redemption” game - the team’ finally won the final match-up of the year. Thanks, Ms. Westerkamp for a year of competition, comradery and fun!
SOFTBALL
After heavy graduation losses last year, the "new look" Broncos were tested this season with a schedule full of many tough GCAC Conference Teams and a number of ranked opponents. Seniors Erin Grimsley, Kassandra Gutierrez, Skye Houston, Sarah Paradis, Nicoll Noriega and Mikaelah Thomas provided leadership. The young team improved tremendously over the course of the season and concluded with a three-game winning streak before dropping a tough 3-0 decision to a state-ranked opponent in the IHSA Regional Championship Game.
Erin Grimsley* and Katherine Filkowski both recorded their 100th career hit on their way to their First Team All-Conference Recognitions. Skye Houston was awarded the first annual Stallion Award at Montini's Varsity Athletic Awards for her outstanding team attitude. Ariana Macias, Cedona Barrett, Aubry Raffen and Bridget Ryan received Second Team All-Conference Recognitions. With a strong core group returning and several anticipated new additions, the future looks very bright for Bronco Softball next year and beyond!
TRACK & FIELD
Girls Sectional Champions
Our Boys Track & Field team enjoyed another strong season qualifying two individuals for the State Track and Field Meet at Eastern Illinois University on May 24th and 25th. Representing the Broncos at State were Collin Angelakos ‘24* (Shot Put) and Nolan Ferris ‘25* (3200m run). Collin completed his Track & Field career ranked 4th in school history in the shot put with a throw of 44 feet 4.75 inches. Nolan is currently ranked 3rd all time in Montini history with a 9:53 3200m run. As a team the Broncos finished 6th in the Glenbard South Sectional with the 4x100 and 4x200 relays narrowly missing the IHSA State Qualifying mark.
Girls Track & Field had one of the best seasons in school history, highlighted by 10 school record breaking performances, 9 State qualifying performances, 3 All-State finishes, and Montini's first IHSA Sectional title in the sport.
Championship Season started with all-conference performances from 6 athletes at the GCAC outdoor meet; Keisha Berry in the 200 and 4x100, Sofia Fisher in the 100 and 4x100, Camryn Amouzou in the 100 and 4x100, Sydney Gertsen in the 3200, Ja'Niyah Hall in the 4x100, and Karissa Jones in the Shot Put.
At Sectionals, our ladies dominated the sprints and distance events en route to the team's first-ever sectional title. At the State Meet, the 4x100 meter relay squad of Camryn, Sofia, Julia, and Keisha won their preliminary heat and placed 8th in the final, winning All-State honors. In the 3200 both Sydney and Ashlynn also finished All-State. Sydney came in 5th and Ashlynn finished 8th.
New school records set this season: Sydney Gertsen – 1600 (Indoor) 5:18; (Outdoor) 5:10 | 3200 (Indoor) 11:19 | (Outdoor) 10:54; Keisha Berry – 100m dash 12:64; Sofia Fisher – 200m dash 25.59; Camryn Amouzou, Sofia Fisher, Julia Gergen, Keisha Berry – Sprint Relay 4x100 47.92 | Sprint Relay 4x200 1:45;
VOLLEYBALL
Our Volleyball Team finished their season with a loss to State ranked Joliet West. The team finished with 6 wins. There were a lot of positives - senior Hunter Ross was named All Conference and will continue his career at Adrian College. Michael May ‘26 was named the Stallion Award Winner at our first ever Athletic Awards and Nolan Kwiatkowski ‘26 added 115 kills this season to bring his career total to 215. Starting 4 underclassman all season the program looks to continue to build on this year's success. Go, Broncos!
Montini
Catholic Bronco
Top: Anne Westerkamp ‘84 refs the final volleyball match-up; Middle: Nolan Ferris ‘25* and Rory O’Connor ‘24* prove that cousins rule in bags tournament; Bottom l to r: Faculty team end the season as champions (finally) Denis Block, Anna Martinello ‘17, Donnie Glowinski, Principal Chris Tiritilli, Brian Casey ‘10, Andrew Weisenburger ‘05, Anne Westerkamp ‘84 and President Kevin Beirne;
S20 FUN
Facts about NEW ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL, LEXXI JOHNSON
6. I was blessed to know my great-grandparents for the first 12 years of my life.
7. I danced competitively for 15 years, and I was able to take classes from Britney Spears' and Janet Jackson’s choreographers.
8. The first sport that I ever played was ice hockey because I wanted to be like my older brother.
9. I LOVE the Harry Potter movies, but I am embarrassed to admit that I have never read the books.
he could have been the next Britney Spears - but, we’re glad our new Assistant Principal, Lexxi Johnson, chose education as a career (and apparently has been planning to since 8th grade). Find out more about the newest member of our administration team!
1. My middle school principal had to sign off on my worker's permit so that I could begin my first job at 14 years old.
2. The principal referenced in the first point is also the same person who hired me for my first teaching job! #fullcircle
3. Although Johnson is not a very Italian name, my family celebrates several Italian traditions, including Sunday pasta dinners each week, Ravioli Day before the holidays, and the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve.
4. I spent my first year of college at Coastal Carolina in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
5. If I could only eat one food for the rest of my life, it would be pizza!
10. I watch an episode of Friends every night before bed.
11. Traveling to Greece is on my bucket list.
12. My favorite flavor of ice cream is mint chip, preferably from Oberweis.
13. I have known that I wanted to go into education ever since 8th grade.
14. I like to paint, and I find it to be very relaxing.
15. I have had a new role at Montini each year that I have been here.
16. I am a product of Catholic education, and I attended St. Walter’s School and St. Francis College Prep High School.
17. I really enjoy cooking, and I like to try and create new recipes.
18. The first concert that I ever attended was a Bon Jovi concert with my mom.
19. My family has owned the same breed of dog for my entire life—springer spaniels.
20. Maroon is my favorite color. #broncopride
HALL OF FAME 24
achievement and service and inducted into the Montini Catholic Alumni Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony was held on Saturday, April 13th. Inducted this year were:
Kevin Holman '82†
Recognized for outstanding athletic achievement at Montini Catholic High School and for achievement in coaching at the high school level as well as his achievements in broadcasting.
Tim O'Connor '87
Recognized for outstanding athletic achievement at Montini Catholic High School and Millikin University. Additionally recognized for service to the community as well as his professional excellence and leadership in the commercial water industry.
Dr. Rick Munaretto '93
Recognized for outstanding academic and
to his community.
Shannon Herold Spanos '99
Recognized for outstanding academic and athletic achievement while at Montini Catholic High School and Trinity College as well as outstanding achievement coaching girls basketball and service to the Montini Catholic community.
Sam Vlahos '07
Recognized for excellence in the restaurant and commercial real estate industries as well as his continued generous support and service to the Montini Catholic and local communities.
Paul Kaefer '09
Recognized for outstanding academic and leadership achievement at Montini Catholic High School as well as excellence in his professional career as a data engineer.
Montini’s Alumni Hall of Fame was established to recognize graduates who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of the following areas:
chosen profession.
• Leadership exhibited while at Montini Catholic, in college, or their chosen profession.
• Positive impact for Montini Catholic through leadership shown in the business, professional or civic community.
• Contribution to Montini Catholic through continual active participation and engagement in school and alumni projects and events.
Any Montini Catholic graduate can be nominated for the Hall of Fame based on the criteria above. A committee of 21 votes for their selection from the nominees. Nominees must receive 70% of the vote to be selected as an inductee.
The induction ceremony was on Saturday, April 13, 2024.
above: l to r: Tim O'Connor '87, Paul Kaefer '09, Shannon Herold Spanos '99, Sam Vlahos '07, Dr. Rick Munaretto '93 and Quinn and Griffin Holman, representing dad, Kevin Holman '82†
Photo
KEEPING UP WITH THE
BRONCOS
Please e-mail your Bronco updates and/or photos to alumni@montini.org.
MARRIAGES, FUTURE BRONCOS, UPDATES & SYMPATHIES
Sympathies
To the Pintozzi Family on the passing of Kathleen Pintozzi, mother of Larry ’71, Lorraine ’71, Alan ’72, Howard ’75, and Daniel ’79; grandmother of William Beyer ’94, Kelly Beyer ’94, and Karen (Beyer) Powell ’98
To the Nelson Family on the passing of Tracy Nelson, wife of Matt ’89
To the Landano and Langert Families on the passing of Janet Landano, sister of Dan ‘92 and Julie (Landano)Langert ‘96; sister-in-law of Dan Langert ‘96; aunt of current Montini students Chase ‘26 and Gianna ‘27 Langert
To the Czopek Family on the passing of Frank Czopek, father of Christopher ’92
To the Cronin Family on the passing of Jeanne Cronin, mother of Aimee (Cronin) Bleskin ‘93, Megan (Cronin) Scarsella ‘93, Erin (Cronin) Pearson ‘94, Mike ‘97, and Katie Rose ‘00.
To the Puglessi Family on the passing of Frank Puglessi, father of Kelly (Puglessi) Giacolo ‘88 and Al ‘89
To the Kosmach-Schumacher Families on the passing of Sandra Ribich, sister of Diane (Kosmach) Schumacher '71 and sister-in-law of Mike Schumacher '71
To the Kuceba Family on the passing of Robert Kuceba, father of Jennifer (Kuceba) Mazzei '89
in memoriam
Jim Farrow ‘80, brother of Michael ‘77, Laura (Farrow) Hill ‘78, Susan (Farrow) Judis ‘79, Carol (Farrow) Kern ‘81, Lisa (Farrow) Tunney ‘82, Steven ‘84 and Mark ‘86
Fr. Ivan Cormac Marsh (Br. Cormac), former Montini Catholic faculty member from 1970 to 1972.
Kathy Farina, former Montini Catholic faculty member from 1994 to 2007; mother of Pete ’87 and Ann Marie (Farina) Gitchell ’89; mother-inlaw of Jim Gitchell ’89
UPDATES
Tom Mahoney ’85 retired after 14 years as the Superintendent of the Oregon (IL) school district.
Dan Laughlin ’86 started a new position as a Sales Manager at Service Pallet, LLC.
Nancy (Kuster) Economou ’84 was honored as the 2024 Global Citizenship Hero by the Illinois Region of the Red Cross.
Traci Goldstine ’04 launched the Big Smile Foundation, a charity organization focused on creating meaningful and impactful life experiences.
Matt Kissane ’83 (left) will be playing the role of Chris Farley in the upcoming movie “SNL 1975.”
Nick Campanella ’10 started a new position as a Sales Manager for Business Applications at Microsoft.
Ben Piper ’11 started a new position as a Senior Project Manager at CIBC.
Annaliese DiSimone ’19 started a new position as a Police Services Representative with the Wheaton Police Department.
Scott West ’19 started a new position in the marketing department of the Florence Y’all’s Frontier League baseball team.
Mitch West ‘17 was recently promoted to 1st Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps!
Guytano Carollo ’20 graduated from the Ohio State University and will be pursuing a Master of Professional Accounting at the University of Texas.
Angelina Greico ’20 graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and will be pursuing her Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry.
Michael Sclafani '20 signed on to play baseball with the Joliet Slammers!
Theresa Versaci ’13 received the 2024 Leadership Award from The Arc of Illinois for her volunteer contributions in helping children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Katherine Isoda ’20 graduated from the University of Dayton with a degree in psychology.
Joey Melarkey ’20 graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Construction Management and will begin a position with M/I Homes this summer.
Aidan O’Connor ’20 competed in the NCR National Sevens Championship as a member of the rugby team at St. Thomas University, finishing in second place in the small college division.
Rafael Ortiz III ’20 was honored by Arizona State University as the Outstanding Graduate for the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, the Dean’s Medalist for the School of Earth & Space Exploration, and the Outstanding Graduate in Research for Barrett, the Honors College.
WEDDINGS
Matthew Kososki ’04 became engaged to Rhea Mae Cahanap in April 2024.
Michael Catalano ’13 and Colleen Weber ’13 were married on May 18, 2024.
future broncos
Billy Keeley ’01 and wife Nicolle welcomed son, Anthony, on February 26, 2024.
Brian Orr ’13 and wife Haley welcomed daughter, Olivia Arden, on March 24, 2024.
Ben ’13 and Vaida (Sepkus) Dobosenski ’13 welcomed daughter, Maeve Eloise, on April 23, 2024.
Sarah (Birdsall) Kulick ’04 and husband Joe welcomed daughter, Clara Isabelle (above), on May 1, 2024.
upcoming events
Homecoming – September 27th vs. Marmion Fashion Show – October 13th
Class of 1974 50th Reunion - September 27-29th
ALUMNI SIGHTINGS - 1. Nora Sypkens ‘21 and Maureen Barry Sypkens ‘86 stopped by to be entertained at Montini’s Spring concert in April; 2: Former President Jim Segredo was visiting coincidentally when Neil Fernandez ‘03 dropped by to say hello to his good friend, Principal Tiritilli; 3. Our 35th Annual Bronco Classic Golf Outing (BCGO) Course 2 Winners l to r - Ed O’Neill ‘90, Gerry King ‘89, Trevor Hughes and Jay Ciavarella ‘89; 4. BCGO Womens’ Winners - Maggie Lhotka, Assistant Principal Sara Lhotka, Meaghan Grimes and Mary (Grimes) Kelly ‘77; 5. BCGO golfers, Cameron ‘15, David ‘79 and Liam Casey ‘19; 6. BCGO Course 1 Winners - Patrick Wallace ‘87, Sean Moriarty ‘87, Jim McCann ‘87 and Joe Susic ‘87; 7. We were so glad to see Cooper ‘21, Danny ‘24, Abby ‘20 and Miles Petersen;
Alumni Sightings
BRONCO EXPRESS
Montini Catholic High School
19W070 16th Street
Lombard, IL 60148
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Parents: If this newsletter is addressed to your son or daughter and he/she no longer resides with you, please email changes/corrections to our alumni team at: alumni@montini.org. Thank you!
We absolutely love keeping up with our alumni Broncos! Please let us know what you’ve been up to and we’ll get the word out in future issues of Bronco Express! montini.org/alumni/update Save the date for our 2024 Fashion Show
Montini’s San Miguel Fund is essential to ensuring that every student has access to the quality Lasallian education Montini provides through scholarship opportunities – made possible through the generous support of our parents, alumni and community members – you!
Consider becoming a donor/sponsor/volunteer this year!
