Montini Catholic Bronco Express Fall 2021 by MontiniCatholic

FALL 2021

MEET OUR NEW ALUMNI RELATIONS DIRECTOR

jim segredo celebrates 25 years

A QUARTER OF A CENTURY OF GOLDEN GOBBLER!

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT “We opened up the year with a significant increase to our enrollment, welcoming 161 members to our freshman class.” - Jim Segredo

Bronco Express Fall 2021

upcoming events Golden Gobbler Kick-oﬀ - November 15 Fashion Show - Sunday, December 5 Winter Family Fest - January 30, 2022

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This summer we completed three significant capital improvement projects to our campus: • The revitalization of the cafeteria • The installation of a wire public address system for the school • The removal of the last heat exchanger in the power plant and the re-piping of heating lines into the school building Over $350,000 was invested in these capital projects. In addition, another $130,000 was invested in other smaller capital improvement projects such as the installation of LED lighting in the gymnasium, the repainting and re-caulking of the exterior of the Academic and Administrative Center (below), parking lot repairs and technology upgrades.

For student stories please contact Barbara Dawson, Print Media Coordinator at: bdawson@montini.org

We also welcomed the 2021-22 school year with outstanding student achievement news on the Advanced Placement front which you can read about on page 5.

Barbara Dawson, Editor bdawson@montini.org 19W070 16th Street Lombard, IL 60148

630-627-6930

@MontiniCatholic #WeAreMontini

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Our 56th year of Lasallian, Catholic, college preparatory education at Montini Catholic is well underway. We opened up the year with a significant increase to our enrollment, welcoming 161 members to our freshman class, including 35 transfer students from St. Joseph High School in Westchester (which closed last spring). This year's freshmen class is one of the largest classes we have had since 2010 and we are optimistic for another large incoming freshman class for the 2022-23 school year.

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 alumni updates please email Katie Doll Hubeny’96, Alumni Relations Director at: alumni@montini.org

Dear Alumni and Friends,

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This issue of Bronco Express celebrates the 25th anniversary of our Golden Gobbler Food Drive which is one of many service opportunities that our students participate in over the course of the school year. This issue of Bronco Express also features several stories on Montini Catholic faculty, staff and alumni who have or will be providing service to the Montini Catholic school community and the community around us. The excellent educational experience we are able to provide our students, one that also includes superior extracurricular programs and service opportunities, can only happen through the support of our Montini Catholic community. This November and December are key months for our Annual Fund (pp 12-13). I sincerely hope that you will give strong consideration to making a gift to our 2021-22 Annual Fund. Your gift will truly make a difference. As the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays approach I wish you and your loved ones an enjoyable family centered Thanksgiving, a merry and blessed Christmas and a healthy and happy 2022. My sincere appreciation for all your support and generosity to our school community and "May Jesus Live In Your Hearts...Forever!" Sincerely,

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

Fall 2021

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

SCHOOL NEWS graduations over the years. "I am also a founding and active member of the Alumni Advisory Board," she says. "When (President) Jim Segredo approached me this summer with this job opportunity it naturally seemed like the next step!" Katie cherishes many great memories during her years as a student, among them are her time as a Broncette and her participation in the spring musicals. She credits her Lasallian education for helping her to become a well-rounded individual. "This is something that I carry with me and try to instill in my own children. The importance of faith, family, academics, service, participation and kindness were reinforced on a daily basis while I was a student at Montini and it truly shaped my character." "As a student, Montini was my home away from home. I was at Montini more than I was at my own house. When my children started attending high school, I found myself here again for activities, meetings, events, etc. There is a magnetic energy within the Montini community. People are passionate about what they do here and it catches on like wildfire." She truly hopes to spark joy in her fellow alumni by promoting tried-and-true alumni events. "I also would like to create new possibilities for alumni involvement, in particular, community service opportunities for alumni, open gyms for former Montini athletes and a thriving network community." Her first goal is to encourage all alumni to update their information so they don't miss out!" The Hubeny Bronco tradition is not likely to slow down if Katie has anything to say about it. "It was very important to my husband, Jim, and me that our children attend Montini Catholic High School. Aside from being the place where we met and began to fall in love, it shaped who we are as people today. We wanted our children to have that same opportunity and to give them the gift of the Montini family. Every person in my family is unique unto themself and I truly believe that there is a place for every one of them here."

WELCOME, KATIE! Montini Catholic welcomes long-time Bronco family member, Katie (Doll) Hubeny '96 as Alumni Relations Director. Her days will now be filled with coordinating traditional Bronco events as well as conceptualizing new and unique ways to engage Montini alumni.

”

Katie's Bronco roots go 'way' back to the late 80s when 'big hair' was still a thing, Reagan was the president and a first class stamp was just 25 cents! "My family has been at Montini Catholic since 1988 when my sisterin-law Barbara (Hubeny) Allen '92 came as a freshman, my sister Jennifer (Doll) Gedraitis '94 arrived next and from then on there was a steady stream of Dolls and Hubenys at Montini until 2001," informs Katie, who was a member of the Broncettes. "I've had four cousins attend Montini as well. When my husband Jim '96 and I got married in 2001, it was like a Montini reunion! My oldest son, James ‘21 picked up the torch when he arrived in 2017 as a freshman, followed by my sons Ryan '22 and Sean '25. My daughter Mary Grace will arrive in 3 years and will be a member of the class of 2028!" After graduation, she proudly remained involved with the Montini community by serving as an assistant Broncette coach throughout her college years and attending numerous games, alumni events and

"Basically, I love Montini. I carefully weighed all of my high school options when I was in 8th grade and decided Montini was the one for me. It still stands as one of my best life decisions and one I have made over and over again when I made the decision to send each of my four children to school here and then to work as the Alumni Relations Director."

”

"We are so lucky to have Katie on board as Alumni Relations Director," says President Jim Segredo. "She brings great enthusiasm to this position and we are so excited about our future and with bringing more and more Bronco alumni back into the fold under her leadership!"

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

There is a magnetic energy within the Montini community. People are passionate about what they do here and it catches on like wildﬁre.

Fall 2021 3

SCHOOL NEWS

TOP IN‘25 Congratulations to the recipients of our Class of 2025 Academic Scholarships awarded to incoming freshmen excelling on our Placement Exam!

KAZMA SCHOLARS Each year, the Kazma Family Foundation, in conjunction with the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), presents awards to eighth graders actively attending a Catholic parish in the Diocese of Joliet and who are interested in attending a local Catholic high school. Scholars are honored at an annual Mass held at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus in Joliet. (Due to last year's Covid restrictions on gatherings, the Class of 2024's Mass was postponed until this year.) On Friday and Saturday, August 27th and 28th, the recipients attended Masses in their honor, celebrated by Bishop Ronald A. Hicks. Congratulations to (l to r): Class of 2024 Nicole Navas (St. Pius X) Marin Ferris (St. Pius X)* Samuel Hemmersmeier (Visitation) Ruben Galvan (Ascension of Our Lord)

Class of 2025 Matthew Silveyra (St. Isidore) Joshua Brunke, Jr.(Sacred Heart) John Barrett (St. Pius X) Julia Gergen (St. Pius X) - not pictured

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Olivia Weiland Receives the Frederick & Ann Smith Memorial Scholarship

In alphabetical order from the top (grade school attended): Payton Atkins (St. Scholastica), John Barrett (St. Pius X), Annika Bartell (Forest Park), Liliana Cruz (Immaculate Conception), Julian D'Anca (St. Michael Parish School), Peyton Farrell (St. Mary of Gostyn), James Fitzpatrick* (Sacred Heart), Isabella Jaojoco (St. Scholastica), Conor Kaefer (Sacred Heart), Daniel Sherman (St. Scholastica), Matthew Silveyra (St. Isidore), Paul Southern (St. Pius X), Billy Tierney (St. Mary of Gostyn), Maddie Trapp (All Saints Academy), Christopher Zayed (Glenn Westlake)

Fall 2021

The $2,500 renewable scholarship is sponsored by the Ryan Smith Foundation. Frederick was very involved in St. Pius X activities including thier basketball program. His wife, Ann, taught 1st grade at St. Pius X for 25 years. The scholarship is presented in the spring to an 8th grade student from St. Pius X who demonstrates a commitment to involvement as well as a devotion to community service.

Julia Gergen Receives the Johnny Weiger Memorial Scholarship Each year, 8th graders with plans to be a Bronco, are invited to submit an essay in order to be considered for the scholarship. The Weiger Family selects a student displaying high moral character, a deep commitment to their faith, and achieving academic excellence at the grade school level, to receive the $1,000 renewable scholarship.

SCHOOL NEWS

Twenty-Three Broncos Excel on Spring Exams!

15 AP Exam Options; 66 students took 119 AP Exams; 23 Perfect scores of 5 were recorded in 8 courses; 94 scores were 3+; Over

Scholars with Distinction (Scores of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken, and scores a 3+ on ﬁve or more of these exams) Gabriel Abbas’21, Ayaan Dhir '21, Maria Hemmersmeier’21, Cooper Petersen '21, Paul Scott '21, John Sebben’21*, Heather Sledzinski '21 and Nora Sypkens '21*

Scholars with Honor

of the exams taken earned a 3+ resulting in college course credit at most universities.

(Score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken, and scores of 3+ on four or more of these exams) Sarah Ernat '22, Guadalupe Herrmann '22, Audrey Kekstadt '22, Charles Nielsen '22*, Benjamin Snukst '21 and Alise Yunez '21

Scholars (Score of 3+ on 3 or more AP Exams) Kayla Chrapkowski '21, Daniel Cyze '21, Nicolas Fisch '21, Justin Gergen '22, Ryan Hubeny '22*, Julia Moran '22*, Alexis Ream '21*, Gabriela Salinas '21 and Joshua Tolefree '22

Jhett Acuna Maya Alikpala Angela Banov Shannon Blacher Megan Blim* Nathan Camba Carissa Collier Soﬁa Corona Orozco Michael Crowley, Jr. Thomas Cyze

Annabella D’Anca John DiSimone Matthew DiSimone Mary Catherine Gaughan Katherine Gertsen Ava Rose Giannini Willa Gramann Maren Hoovel Gabrielle Husmillo

Hailey Larcker Isaiah Lusk Mario May Andrew Miller* Randi Moraga Amanda Mrazek Luke Pacelli William Prater Samuel Ruddy* Natalia Sandoval

Sara Severin Alexander Silveyra John Sipchen Kenneth Sledzinski Joseph Spaccapaniccia* Francesca Spizzirri Grace Tierney Lillian Townsend* Dominick Trippiedi

Senior Sarah Ernat, has earned Commended Scholar honors through the The National Merit® Scholarship Program. Sarah is a member of Montini's National Honor Society, French Club, Math Team and Mu Alpha Theta. She devotes time to the Peer Ministry Team and is a member of Theatre and the Drama Club. She also devotes her time and talents to the Treblemakers - and earned herself a spot in the Tri-M Honor Society. At the moment, she is still considering her college career path, but is very interested in interior design or veterinary medicine. "My favorite subjects are music and art, but I’ve also really enjoyed math, science, and history classes. Scholarly achievement runs in the family. Sarah is the youngest member of the Ernat clan. Every one of her siblings were also Commended Scholars (Rebekah ‘13 (National Merit Finalist), Matthew ‘16 and Andrew ‘19)! Congratulations, Sarah!

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Montini Catholic's National Honor Society (St. Pope Paul VI Chapter) proudly inducted 38 new members in October

Commended Scholar Honors Run in the ernat family

Fall 2021 5

SCHOOL NEWS

New Teachers

welcomed

BrONCO IS THEiR NAME involvement IS THEIR GAME! In August, were were proud to welcome six new faculty/staff members and two returning members to our dedicated team of Lasallian educators. Jennifer Baron - World Language Department/Spanish Marika Brousianou - Fine Art Department Kristen Carr - Counseling Department/Social Worker Brian Hyland - Counseling Department Alexxis Johnson - English Department/Student Government Moderator Katie Marchese - Math Department DeAndre McCamey - Math Department Mollee Thermos - World Language Department/Spanish

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

After 12 (sometimes) long years as Montini’s ‘go-to guy,’ Plant Manager, Tom Hanik, is hanging up his tool belt and saying ‘hello’ to more time with his grandchildren, sleeping and travel (in that order)! Tom joined our Bronco family in 2009. He was with Driscoll at the time of their closing and was left looking for a new ‘home.’ “I was told by our HVAC service rep to check out Montini, he thought it could be a good ﬁt!”

Being a plant manager at a busy school has its good points - “It’s great to be in a place where everybody knows your name - but, that can be good and bad!” Tom has enjoyed being kept on his toes with the many, many challenges presented him throughout the years. What will he miss the most? “The people! Being part of a younger culture, working at a high school, helped to keep me young!” The least? “A few years ago I would have said 'the engines.' Now, it’s getting up at 5:30, setting up and taking down tables, stages and risers, plowing snow, cleaning lunch rooms, and people changing thermostat settings and not resetting them when they are done!” There’s no doubt, Tom, along with his smiling face and willingness to jump in and solve any problem, will be greatly, greatly missed. Fall 2021

Student Government and Montini Maniacs Moderator, Alexxis Johnson and Student Activities Director, Andrew Weisenburger ‘05 are doing everything they can to see that students get engaged. Alexxis is enjoying her first year leading a team of energetic teens who are determined to make this year a memorable one, especially in light of last year's series of cancellations and postponed events (due to Covid regulations). "My goal is to offer events that students are excited to participate in. I want to get our school community back together to celebrate all of the great activities that Montini has to offer." She stresses that her primary responsibility as director is to make sure that students’ voices and opinions are heard. She is determined to challenge students to step up and be a part of creating a spirit filled community. "They should leave here with nothing but great memories." "It is extremely rewarding to work with our student body to collaborate on ideas for Montini," adds Alexxis. "They are all so eager to bring back some of the traditions that they were not able to participate in last year, and they have so many amazing ideas about how to raise school spirit! I am so lucky to learn from them what 'Bronco Pride' really is!" Andrew oversees all of the school's non- athletic clubs and organizations. (He is also one of two dean of students.) "This year, I hope that our students can enjoy a somewhat 'normal year,' in that they have the opportunity to take part in many events, unlike last year," he said. "One of the great things about Montini is that we are very receptive to new clubs and ideas and it is really a great empowering lesson for our students. They are encouraged to suggest new clubs and to find and recruit members with similar interests." He is in awe of the resiliency he has witnessed in Bronco students over the last year and a half - of Covid restrictions regulating and ending many events. "I'm excited for them to have a high school experience this year that is defined by what they can do rather than what they can't do." "Our students really take ownership and feel like they are a part of something much bigger than themselves. These are the things that I think will benefit them long after they graduate and also will allow them to look back on their four years here and feel like they belonged and made the most of their high school experience."

SCHOOL NEWS

school supply drive 2021 Members of the Peer Ministry team hit the ground running earlier this year by sponsoring a week-long school supply drive for School & Community Assistance for Recycling and Composting Education (SCARCE) in Addison (September 13-16th). The supplies will be distributed locally to kids and schools in need. "We set up a friendly competition among our classes," said assistant Campus Minister, Kelly Davis. "Our students brought in various supplies each day to gain points for their class. We asked for notebooks, paper, pencils, scissors and other supplies," said Davis. SCARCE will distribute the much needed supplies to students and teachers throughout the area. The group is an award-winning environmental education non-proﬁt dedicated to creating sustainable communities. Way to go, Broncos!

Artist of the Month Montini concluded our exciting 'Sweet Home Montini' Homecoming Week festivities on September 25th, and crowned our queen, Reeghan Boyer at the big game! (King, Quincy Oyekanmi was crowned at the dance.) Alumna and 2019 Queen, Kylie Boyer ‘19, was proud to surprise her little sister with the crown.

Another first was the outdoor Homecoming Dance, also held in the stadium. Special visits from Q's Pizza and Courageous Cupcakes made the night even more delicious and memorable. And a spectacular fireworks show topped the entire week off. "From our opening Mass, to the court, the pep rally, the game, and the biggest and most awesome dance we’ve had, it was a tremendous amount of fun," said Principal Kevin Beirne.

Cramer presented her with the highest position in theatre, Assistant Director/ Stage Manager for this fall’s production of “Holy Darkness.” "Her position requires a heavy load of responsibility. Come opening night, Alexia will be running the whole show,” said Cramer. Alexis has been involved with theater her entire life and truly enjoys being a part of something that can be impactful and/or enjoyable for others. "The duties do range quite a bit, it can be anything from giving actors different notes throughout rehearsal, giving lines when they forget, arranging a scene change if needed, making sure we start on time and making sure every actor is in the proper costume for the proper scenes," informs Alexis. "I also help to de-stress the crew backstage before their scenes." “Her creativity and eye for acting nuance is what makes her a great Assistant Director,” added Cramer. “Her kindness, poise, resilience and loyalty is what makes her worthy of this Artist of the Month award."

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Prior to the game, Bronco students engaged in the week-long celebration with Mass, decorated hallways, and dress up/down days and enjoyed the school's first ever outdoor pep rally held at Duffy Memorial Stadium. With the fall weather staying in check, the students enjoyed friendly games and competitions on the football field at an event that will go down in the Bronco history books as a first.

Senior Alexis Holmes was named Bronco Artist of the Month for October. Alexis was selected for the honor by Theology Teacher and Theatre Director, Mr. Kenn Cramer.

Fall 2021 7

COVER STORY

The greatest good is what we do for one another.

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

If you can’t feed 100 people then feed just one.

Broncos kick hunger!

Fall 2021

Broncos are proud to have kept the tradition of feeding local families in need during the holidays alive and ‘kicking’ for 25 years!

HAPPY Birthday golden

gobbler! In 1997, under the leadership of then principal Jim Segredo, Montini Catholic kicked off its first annual Golden Gobbler Thanksgiving Food Drive. Since then, every year when the air turns crisp, clocks gets set back and Bronco sports fans say goodbye to their fall rivalries, Montini students gear up for their annual collection. This year marked the beginning of Montini’s 25th ‘season of giving’ with the onset of Golden Gobbler and Adopt-a-Family (in December).

"We primarily support the food pantries at Christ the King, St. Pius X and Woodridge,"

In 2016, Katie visited to speak to the students about the good work they are doing through Golden Gobbler and to thank them for their continued support. "God is everywhere at Montini. He has given you all the gift of kindness and compassion and these are amazing gifts. So the next time you have a rough day I ask you to think of my kids and know that you have made a difference in their lives and for that I thank you." Alumna, Michelle (Ptak) O’Connor ‘88, vividly remembers the earlier years of the Gobbler, when Jim, as principal, would get the kids fired up. “Jim's energy was so infectious when it came to the Golden Gobbler. Every afternoon he would enthusiastically update the students on the daily donation totals and give the leaderboard results of the homeroom competition. The announcements would always start with the "Gobble Gobble" sound effect - that grabbed everyone's attention! The kids really responded to his energy and passion - he really helped establish that same passion in

them – which is why 25 years later the Golden Gobbler is still so successful!” We’re so proud of being able to celebrate 25 years of donating, counting, boxing, organizing and delivering Thanksgiving and Christmas joy to thankful families and food pantries throughout the Western Suburbs. Happy 25th Birthday, Golden Gobbler! Here’s to 25 more years of giving!

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Montini students and families have never waivered in their passion for giving to others. Friendly contests between classes help fuel the drive to donate ‘just one more item’ to the stockpile. But, it’s the students and their own desire to give to those in need who truly power the food drive each year. “Golden Gobbler has always been a good experience for our students,” says Campus Minister Mike Blanchette. “When they help deliver the donations to our ‘adopted’ families, they get to see the joy on the faces of the children we have helped. They realize the true meaning of Thanksgiving by participating in Golden Gobbler. It offers us all an opportunity to reflect on our blessings in our lives and to share them with others in need.”

says Mr. Blanchette. "We also give additional food to the families from Clearbrook and Eisenhower Co-Op, agencies serving families with children with disabilities. Katie (Laurinaitis) Modglin '04, is a teacher at Eisenhower," he explained.

9 Fall Fall2019 2021 13

AT H L E T I C S

Fall

SPORTS WRAP-UP

––– SPORTS SHORTS ––––––––

BUMBER’S LOCKER Our 2021 'Bumber's Corner Locker' recipient (named after 1989 graduate and football standout, Brad Bumber) is senior Bronco (LB/FB) Michael Carver ‘22.

VOLLEYBALL

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Our Lady Broncos are Super-Sectional Champions and GCAC Champions (Red Division) at the time of print. Currently the Broncos are swiftly moving their way up in their fight to secure an IHSA Class 2A Championship in Bloomington (November 13th). Senior team members have reached the sectional finals 3 times on the court as Broncos and they are hoping to take their winning ways all the way to the top. Volleyball is already celebrating a historic season, however, with senior Paige Pickering (PIN) securing her 1000th kill on October 14th. The girls also won their first Mother McCauley Preview earlier in the season and hosted a successful Volley for a Cure event on October 7th. To top it off, Paige earned GCAC Player of the Year! She and fellow teammates, Reeghan Boyer ‘22, Madalyn Kasallis ‘22*, Jordan Heatherly ‘23 and Hailey Goetz ‘24, also earned All Conference titles. Head Varsity Coach Trish Samolinski told the Daily Herald, "It's been a really memorable season for these seniors and a great send off for them. Everything we do is a first, it's like icing on the cake. They work very hard and have a lot of goals and it's the time of year where some of those goals are coming into play."

10 Fall 2021

"Michael truly embodies the everyday character and spirit of Brad," said Coach Mike Bukovsky. "Like Brad was, Mike is a tough hard nosed player, and can always be counted on by his teammates. He is a year round leader, and one of the hardest workers on the team! He is a perfect choice to carry on Brad's legacy, with his everyday words and actions, and positive inﬂuence on his teammates and the Bronco Football Program!" Photo above: Michael Carver with Brad’s teammates (l to r) Brian Forde ‘89, Bob Starvel ‘89, Al Puglessi ‘89 and Mike Mellon ‘89.

SPIRIT OF 76

In conjunction with the Johnny Always Wins Charity Game on September 17th, the Weiger Family presented their "Spirit of '76" Award to senior Mario Florio’22. In Johnathan's memory, the Weiger Family presents this special award each year to a unique member of the varsity football team. With help from staﬀ and coaches, they choose the player who best embodies that of great character, faith and sportsmanship. Photo at top: Oour Lady Broncos won the Sectional Championship on Wednesday, November 3rd!

Photo above: Mario Florio with the Weiger Family (l to r: Johnny's cousin Violet W., his father Karl Weiger, mother Fran Weiger, sister Lauren Weiger, and cousin Michael W.)

AT H L E T I C S LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD Coach Mike Bukovsky '83, earned Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association's Lifetime Service Award for 2020.

Mike Bukovsky with wife, Debora Utley (Montini’s Music Director 1996-2001)

CROSS COUNTRY

L to r: Lupe Herrmann ‘22, Mick Flannery ‘22, Nolan Ferris ‘25*, Tommy May ‘22, Max Neal ‘25, Miguel Jaojoco ‘22 and Hugh Flannery ‘24

Mike was presented the award at the 49th Annual Lifetime Service Awards and Hall of Fame Banquet in September. Mike has coached Wrestling (collectively) for 25 years at Montini.

While serving as the Head Bronco Wrestling Coach at Montini, Bukovsky's teams won 460 dual meets while losing only 39, a career 92% winning mark. His teams won 15 IHSA Regional Championships, and qualiﬁed for the Dual Team State Tournament 13 times. His teams won 11 Dual Team State Trophies, including 8 IHSA Dual Team State Championships. Individually, Bukovsky produced 140 state qualiﬁers, 81 individual state place winners and 32 IHSA Individual State Champions. He has also coached 3 IHSA Individual four-time State Champions. Several of his teams were nationally ranked, including the 2007 team, ranked 5th in the Nation by Amateur Wrestling News Magazine. Bukovsky was recognized 3 times as IWCOA Coach of the Year (1998, 2002, 2008), and was selected as the National High School Athletics Association National Coach of the Year in 2009. He was inducted into the IWCOA Hall of Fame in 2008, received the IWCOA Man of the Year Award in 2010, and served as the Grand Marshall at the 2017 IHSA State Wrestling Finals. Mike has played a vital role in the success of Montini's 6 Football State Championship Teams (and 3 Runner Up Teams). He also coached the Bronco girls Softball Team for 9 years and in his 6 years as Head Coach, his teams won 2 State Championships. Coaching three sports at Montini, Wrestling, Football and Softball, Coach Bukovsky has been a part of a total of 16 Bronco State Championship Teams. Congratulations, Coach Bu!

Football Volleyball Michael Carver ‘22 Reeghan Boyer ‘22 Mario Florio ‘22 Madalyn Kasallis ‘22* Jackson McWhinney ‘22 Paige Pickering ‘22 Estevan Moreno ‘22 Jordan Heatherly ‘23 Joshua Robinson ‘23 Hailey Goetz ‘24 Julian Turner ‘24 Soccer Thomas McManus ‘22* Christian Clarke ‘23

Girls Cross Country was led this year by senior captains Izzy Juda and Audrey Kekstadt. Season highlights included finishing 6th out of 24 teams at the Harvest Christian Midseason Classic and 3rd of 13 teams at the Frosh-Soph level at the DePaul Prep Ram Invitational. Izzy and freshman Annalee DeFeo* qualified as individuals for the Sectional meet. Just prior to this issue going to print, Izzy Juda and freshman Nolan Ferris* qualified for the IHSA State Finals on November 6th in Peoria!

ONCE A BRONCO - ALWAYS A BRONCO - REEGHAN BOYER COMMITS TO WESTERN MICHIGAN Congratulations to senior Reeghan Boyer, for her commitment to join Western Michigan University's Volleyball Program. Montini's talented athlete (L/DS; Libero/Defensive Specialist) is looking forward to making the shift from a Montini Bronco to a Western Michigan Bronco in the fall of 2022.

GOING FOR THE GREEN ESTEVAN MORENO WILL JOIN THE FIGHTING IRISH NEXT FALL Congratulations to senior Estevan Moreno, for his commitment to join The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame's Baseball Program. Montini's talented athlete is looking forward to swapping his maroon and gold for the Irish green next fall!

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

ALL CONFERENCE FALL SPORTS 21

The Boys Cross Country team had a successful season winning their 3rd consecutive Chicago Catholic League White Division Championship. The boys also qualified for the IHSA Sectional Finals for the 9th consecutive season.

Fall 2021 11

ANNUAL FUND Look for our Annual Fund mailing, coming soon!

Be The ONE M ontini Catholic’s Annual Fund

provides ﬁnancial support for a wide

range of programs, helping us to

continue with our mission of educating,

28%

DONOR GROWTH RATE for ANNUAL FUND*

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;

Gifts between $100-250

competitive faculty salaries to attract and

46%

retain top teachers in addition to providing professional development opportunities; and Montini Catholic Bronco Express

ﬁnancial aid for families in need of assistance. Please consider stepping forward to ‘be the one’ who understands the importance of a Lasallian

42%

gifts to the annual fund represented by alumni

education at Montini Catholic. By giving, you can ‘be the one’ to positively aﬀect the future

ank you

of our students, our school, our community . . . . our world.

12 Fall 2021

Every Bronco class between 1970 – 2019 has at least one donor participating in our Annual Fund. 27% of donations are between $1-50. Our Class of 1970 continues to lead the way with the largest amounts of donors (followed closely by 1971, 1972, 1978, 1986 and 1988). * Source: 2019 to 2020 Annual Fund Comparison; 2020 Annual Fund Campaign #s

o er ways to give . . . The Legacy Society Planned Gifts for Future Broncos For over 50 years, committed alumni, parents, and friends have supported our mission to advance Montini Catholic and provide for its future. Planned Gifts provide many different opportunities for you to support Montini Catholic High School while also receiving tax and other financial benefits. Bequests through wills are the easiest and most popular way to make a “Legacy Gift” to Montini Catholic. With the assistance of an advisor, you can include language in your will specifying the type and amount of gift to be received by Montini Catholic as part of your estate plan. You can specify a specific amount, percentage or a specific asset be designated to Montini Catholic. Bequests through wills can lessen the tax burden on your family and your estate may receive tax savings. If you have decided to include Montini Catholic in your Estate Plans please let us know. We would like to thank you for your generosity, make sure the purpose of your gift is understood by the School, and include you as a member of the Montini Catholic Legacy Society. For more information please email President Jim Segredo at: jsegredo@montini.org.

ANNUAL FUND

The James F. Segredo Scholarship Fund To commemorate President Jim Segredo’s 25 years of service to Montini Catholic, his friends established the James F. Segredo Scholarship Fund in his honor. Throughout the spring and summer, Jim’s friends and fraternity brothers made donation in his name to establish this fund. The Scholarship will be available starting with the 2022-23 school year. The goal is to open the scholarship with $25,000 in donations and use the interest to provide scholarships to new Bronco students. (To date close to $20,000 has been raised.) Those wishing to donate to this fund can visit: www.montini.org/segredoscholarship, donate via Venmo: @montinicatholic or send a check to Montini Catholic, Attn: Segredo Scholarship Fund, 19W070 16 th Street, Lombard, IL 60148.

How to Give to our 2021 ‘BE THE ONE’ campaign ANNUAL FUND GIVING CLUB LEVELS

16th St., Lombard IL 60148.

$100,000+ – Pope Paul VI Society $50,000 – $99,999 Signum Fidei Society $25,000 – $49,999 Founder Society $10,000 – $24,999 Christian Brothers Society $5,000 – $9,999 LaSallian Society $2,500 – $4,999 San Miguel Society $1,000 – $2,499 President’s Council $500 – $999 De La Salle Club $250 – $499 Maroon and Gold Club $100 – $249 Bronco Pride Club $1 – $99 Friend of Montini Catholic

ONLINE (Via credit card: American Express, Visa, MasterCard or Discover) Visit: www.montini.org/annualfund/betheone

VENMO @montinicatholic MATCHING GIFTS Over 15,000 companies match charitable donations, including 65% of the Fortune 500 companies. You can double the impact of your gift with a matching gift from your company. Visit www.montini.org/ support/matching-gifts or your own Human Rersources Department to see if your company has a Matching Gift Program.

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

MAIL Check to Montini Catholic High School, Attn: Annual Fund, 19W070

Fall 2021 13

Facts about Jim Segredo 7. Favorite writer (columnist) – Mike Royko (Look him up, his columns on Chicago politics are hilarious!)

Favorite Baseball Team: Chicago White Sox (BUT, I am not a Cubs hater.)

9. Favorite Get-Away Spot: Door County, Wisconsin. Favorite Vacation Spot (so far): Italy 10. Was chief editor of my high school newspaper for 2 years. My first major in college was Journalism then changed to Criminal Justice and Social Studies. 11. Was a member of the St. Rita Men’s choir for 3 years – can’t sing a lick (was talked into it by a good friend). 12. Happily married to my wife, Terri, for 38 years. 13. Proud graduate of Lewis University, Class of 1977! 14. Favorite TV Show: Homeland (drama), Seinfeld (comedy)

I am also a big fan of Dancing with the Stars – since Season 1. Emmet Smith is still my favorite Mirror Ball Champion.

16. Favorite food – anything my wife makes, but if I have to name one, she makes a great Chicken Piccata with Angel Hair Pasta.

17. Favorite Dessert – Tiramisu – never had a bad one. 18. Was a morning sports news announcer and Men’s Basketball color commentator on Lewis University’s radio station during my freshmen year.

verything you ever wanted to know about Montini Catholic’s president – from his favorite dessert to his impressive cable surfing abilities - Jim is a man of many distinctive interests. 1. I received 14 years of piano lessons (beginning in the first grade). Stopped after freshmen year – can’t play a note.

I am a member of the 16” Softball Hall of Fame as an 18-year member of the Molex Industrial Team!

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

3. Favorite sport as an adult: Golf and 16-inch Softball 4. Favorite sport, grade school through college – Basketball

I am honored to be a member of the St. Rita High School’s Hall of Fame (inducted in 1995).

20. Math was my nemesis in high school and college. It hung up my appointment to the United State Naval Academy – I was offered an opportunity to the their prep school in Annapolis to bolster my math abilities, but didn’t want to wait a year to start college.

21. If God gave me any talent for a week, I would love to have the skill of a professional golfer and play at the Masters. Being able to sing professionally would be a close second. 22. Never meet a pizza that I didn’t like.

I am a professional cable network surfer – give me 30 minutes and I can watch at least 15 stations. I enjoy watching my favorite movies over and over again and am a big James Bond fan! Favorite Bond: Sean Connery, of course! Daniel Craig a close second. Favorite 24. Was into slot car racing in grade school. Everyone one of our friends had slot car race tracks and each house would host races Bond Movie: From Russia to Love Favorite Golf Movie: for Formula One, Indy Car and Nascar. The Segredo household Tin Cup Favorite Drama: Godfather I and II and Shawshank would host Indy Car and Nascar races. Still a fan! Redemption Favorite Comedy: The Great Race – Jack Lemmon and Peter Falk are hilarious. Favorite Musical: 25. I am happy to know that the Golden Gobbler tradition I began as Guys and Dolls Favorite Overall: Field of Dreams principal, 25 years ago at Montini Catholic - is alive and thriving!

6. My favorite authors are Tom Clancy and James Patterson.

14 Fall 2021

It was in 1997 when Jim Segredo, Vice President at St. Rita High School at the time, “got the bug” to become a school principal. He saw an ad in the Chicago Tribune, sent his resume to a Lombard post office box - and the rest is history! Twenty-five years later, Jim Segredo is celebrating his time at Montini Catholic (and 45 years in Catholic education).

Jim was determined to reduce class size by adding more teachers to the faculty. He also increased class time by six minutes and increased graduation requirements, adding 3 years of Science and 2 years of World Language. He also added more AP classes to the curriculum, established the Signum Fidei Program and brought the Kairos Retreat program to Montini. Under Jim’s leadership, Montini’s Campus Ministry and Technology programs flourished with the hiring of Mike Blanchette and Pete Farina ‘87. Maryann O’Neill was appointed Assistant Principal and Mike Bukovsky was moved to the Admissions Office to work with Kim (Caffarelli) Richmond ‘81 - growing Montini’s

25 Years

of touching hearts

Jim’s aspirations were set on attending law school initially, but it was a call from Dr. Don Racky, Jr., chair of St Rita’s English Department that set him on the path towards teaching. “Don asked if I would be interested in a summer school Social Studies teaching position. So I taught US History and World History for two months and really enjoyed the experience.” While preparing to enter law school he got another call - and an offer of a teaching position at St. Rita for the 77-78 school year. He took the offer with plans to attend law school in the evening. “I had to agree to coach soccer and track which I knew nothing about at the time!” The positive teaching experience led Jim to postponing law school, and when his enthusiasm for education never dimmed - in 1981 - he decided to get his Masters in Education. “Law school still beckons me. My dad (God rest his soul), for many years, would always ask me - ‘so, when are you going to law school?’”

From the top: Jim helps advertise the ‘sandwich of the week’ for the Booster Club (The Segredo Lasallian Italian); speaking at graduation; modeling a fur from York Furrier at the annual Fashion Show; competing against the students in the 2018 Wiﬄe Ball Challenge; at prayer reception commemorating the 300th annivesary of the death of St. John Baptist de La Salle (with “1st Class relic” from the Generalate in Rome; making a cameo appearance with the A Cafellas during the 2015 Christmas Concert;

While Principal, Jim also facilitated the opening of the 300 Wing and the Field House. Greatest memory as principal? “There are so many over the years that it’s hard to choose. It was great announcing a free day for the student body in celebration of our first IHSA State Championship (Wrestling, 2000). I also got to experience our first Football Championship in 2004 - the school spirit and enthusiasm was truly unforgettable.” Jim is honored to have been a part Montini’s first graduation ceremony in the Field House as well. He will also never forget the day Student Council President Mac Brandt and Class of 1998 peers Mike Allegretti, Brian Dobry and Mike Modjeski brought a live turkey (in a cage) to school to turn it for the Golden Gobbler Food Drive. “The turkey bit Allegretti on the finger when they were bringing it to the auditorium!” Least favorite memory? “One that quickly comes to mind is when the engines in the power plant would shut down. When I became principal, I wondered why all the teachers had flashlights in their rooms, the first time the engines shut down, I knew why. That was something the committee forgot to mention in the principal interview.” “Leading the school on 9/11 was a very emotional day I would say, and one I’ll never forget.” – Jim’s story continues on page 17 –

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

The two biggest challenges of becoming Principal at Montini, according to Jim, were learning its culture and leading a coed school. “I am very grateful to Kathy Filipiak and Maryann O'Neill, my two assistant principals. They were great partners in helping navigate these and other challenges in my early years as principal.

enrollment significantly in the process (almost 20% in four years). ‘Dr. K’ - Mike Kisicki was also brought on board as a member of the faculty.

Fall 2021 15

Alumni

ALUMNI NEWS

Sightings 1 alumni Drive in Movie ‘21

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

1. Homecoming Game - Class of 1970 members l t r: Jim Ronan, Armand Esposito, Mike Manna (wife, Lynn) and Tom Young; 2. Shannon Herold Spanos ‘99 at Homecoming Game; 3. Matt McGivern ‘93 and Julie McGivern Maddox ‘99; 4. Bronco Classic Golf Outing - Tom Kero ‘01, Bob Muersch, Brian Casey’ ‘01 and Greg Strzempek ‘02; 5. The Addams Family’ - Uncle Fester (Mike Bukovsky '83), Lurch (Music Teacher, Donnie Glowinski), Morticia (Jenny Long Kavanagh '97), Gomez (President Jim Segredo), Wednesday (Katie Doll Hubeny '96) and Sara McGady (Pugsley is future Bronco, Patrick Kavanagh); 6. Jenny Doll Gedraitis '94, Katie Doll Hubeny '96, Kelly Deichmiller Barcal '01, Megan Muscia Tuma '01 and their families had a mini family reunion; 7. John Gavin ‘91 is ready for the show; 8. Members of Montini’s 2010 and 2011 Bronco Varsity Football Teams were honored on the ﬁeld, September 10th to commemorate the 10th anniversaries of their 2010 and 2011 IHSA 5A Championships.

Fall 2021

6 Bronco Alumni Enjoy a Little “Family Time” at our 2nd Annual Alumni Drive-In Movie Night on Saturday, October 2nd. The carloads of movie goers were treated to a hearty supply of chocolate, cotton candy and popcorn delivered upon their arrival by Alumni Director, Katie Doll Hubeny '96 (aka Wednesday for the evening) and Admissions Director, Jenny Long Kavanagh '97 (aka Morticia for the evening). Students joined in the fun by dressing up and greeting alumni guests as they ﬁled into the makeshift drive-in movie lot. Showing on the big screen was "The Addams Family."

Alumnus on a mission Baptist de La Salle, will help to create relationships between students and the larger global community. “Montini recognizes whole-heartedly, that participating in, and learning about, the global community prepares students to become successful citizens.” Andrew traveled with eight other Lasallian educators from the Midwest, particularly from Minneapolis and St. Paul. “We were really lucky to meet with schools in Portugal (Barcelos) and two in Spain (Valladolid). Our meeting with Our Lady of Lourdes School in Valladolid, Spain was really spectacular. They have some educators there who are in the process of organizing programs to send their students to the US for short periods of time as immersion students in Lasallian high schools.” “It was wonderful because we are all very aware of our Lasallian mission and brought many of the resources of our school communities to be a part of this once in a lifetime experience.”

Andrew Weisenburger ‘05 traveled abroad in July with a mission of connecting with international Lasallian schools

Montini Catholic is currently developing their own Lasallian Global Advantage Program to develop educational trips for Bronco students. (The program is currently in the planning stage due to delayed travel plans and restrictions due to Covid.) The program, inspired by the vision of St. John

Photos: Andrew is in front of Our Lady of Lourdes School in Valladolid, Spain; Meeting with fellow Lasallian educators at Our Lady of Lourdes;

– Jim’s story continued from page 15 –

In 2004, with the resignation of Brother Thomas, Jim became Montini’s 2nd President, naming Maryann O’Neill as Principal. He has successfully led three Capital campaigns during this 18 year span. The Celebrate Our Future Building on Success Campaign propelled Montini into the future with the addition of the Academic & Administrative Center, the renovation of the Campus Ministry Center, art studios, Student Services Center, cafeteria and auditorium. Jim also oversaw the renovation of Duffy Memorial Stadium and the baseball field. With the 50th Anniversary Campaign in 2016 came the renovation of classrooms, locker rooms, the Ed and Pam Mack LRC as well as the creation of the Kazma Innovation Center and the Blessed Mother Prayer garden. “Jim has several mantras that we have learned over the years, like - ‘we teach bell to bell,’ ‘the student is the subject,’ and he added the Lasallian motto ‘touching hearts’ to his repertoire,” said Maryann O’Neill. “I know him to be a man who is passionate about helping children, a visionary who wants the best for his students and a superb role model for the entire school, faculty, staff and students. Jim is a big idea person, he has the ability to forecast and plan and execute expansions to the building as well as his spectacular special events. Who else do you know that would bring a truckload of hay into a school building for a parent social in October?” “The desire to always put the students first is who Jim Segredo is as an educator,” adds current Principal Kevin Beirne. “His tireless work fundraising for our school community always has one aim - to create the best school community possible. I can honestly say, without a doubt, that Jim works harder in that endeavor than anyone I’ve ever worked with. He truly sets the standard for dedication to his vocation as a Lasallian educator. He often encourages the rest of us to touch the hearts of our students. Not only does he preach this Lasallian tenet, he lives it day in and day out, touching not only the hearts of students, but of the rest of us as well! Thank you, Jim, for 25 years of touching hearts! To read an extended article on President Jim Segredo’s 25th Anniversary, visit: montini.org/alumni/bronco-express-magazine

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Montini’s Dean of Students and Director of Student Activities made the trip, hoping the connections made will serve as catalysts for Montini students and high school students in Lasallian schools around the world to be able to take part in exchange, immersion, and study abroad programs. “Lasallian schools are in 80 countries around the world and represent very diverse backgrounds and experiences,” says Andrew. “It makes sense that we utilize these connections and realize that we have a global network of educators.”

According to Andrew, one of the most interesting aspects of the Lasallian Global Advantage Program is that it is uniquely different from many of the private companies currently trips overseas. “Many (of these trips) are very expensive and you don't have any flexibility with their programs. All of their connections and experiences have been vetted, not just by educators, but by Lasallian educators who understand our mission and put students (not money) first.” Rather than simply paying a large premium to travel overseas as a vacation, students do coursework related to their trip before they go overseas and research while they are on their trip. They are left with a wonderful experience but also with the resources and research skills to be global citizens who are changed for the better by their time abroad.

ALUMNI NEWS

Fall 2021 17

KEEPING UP WITH THE

BRONCOS

Ashley Ayres '15 and Terrell Johnson '15 were married on August 6, 2021.

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

MARRIAGES, FUTURE BRONCOS, UPDATES & SYMPATHIES

sympathies To the Dulski Family on the passing of Katherine Dulski, sister of Kristen '88. To the Herold Family on the passing of Tom Herold, father of Jennifer (Herold) Thompson '89, Brian '94 and Shannon (Herold) Spanos '99. To the Ptak Family on the passing of Bob Ptak, father of Michelle (Ptak) O’Connor '88; fatherin-law to Pat O’Connor '81; and grandfather to Caeley O’Connor '18, Patrick O’Connor '21 and Rory O’Connor '24. To the Cyranek Family on the passing of Jacqueline Cyranek, mother to Leonard '83, Rob '93, Catherine (Cyranek) Kerkorian '97 and father-in-law of Melissa (Dvorak) Cyranek '95. To the Latko Family on the passing of Penny Latko, mother of Jennifer (Latko) Johnson '86 and Brianna '89. The Perlowski Family on the passing of Donna Perlowski, mother of Tim '11. The Green Family on the passing of Catherine Greene, wife of Gregory '71, sister-in-law of Connie (Greene) Schmidt '72 and Douglas '73. The Jaloszynski Family on the passing of Julie Jaloszynski, sister of Lynn (Jaloszynski) Cilella '78 and Vicki (Jaloszynski) Ream '88, aunt of Jake Ream '18 and Lexi Ream '21. The Monis Family on the passing of Jocelyn Monis, wife of Rich '88 and sister-in-law of Ralph '87, Roderick '91, Ronald '84 and Rey '00.

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

in memoriAm

Sister Micheline Curtis, CHM Edward Budi '73, brother of James '70, Mary Ann '71, Patricia (Budi) Mosora '74, Dennis '77, Gerald '78, Julie (Budi) Godar '81 and Robert '85. Matt Thompson '76, brother of Jerry '73, Marty '80, Maggie '81 and brother-in-law of Peggy (McSweeney) Thompson '75 Kevin Quinlan '84, father of Shane '12 and Kayla '14. Fall 2021

Emily “Amy” (Domke) Synness '70

UPDATES

Jennifer Soger '99 and Joe Benka '96 were married on August 28, 2021. Jenny’s sisters Shannon (Soger) Osherhoff '01 and Erin (Soger) Ciavarella '03 were attendants at the wedding.

Angela Rose Gagliano '17 graduated with honors from Lewis University with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Secondary Education this spring. She was a member of 3 honor societies. She is working as a teacher in Aurora and looks forward to touching hearts as Saint John Baptist De La Salle has challenged. Mary (Finch) Hoard '73 recently retired to Wyoming. She was the head of the English Department at Antonian College Preparatory High School in Castle Hills, TX. Cindy Wegner '88 was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Evenglow Senior Living, a faith-based continuing care retirement community in Pontiac, IL.

Stephanie Cesaroni '08 and Justyn Jost were married on June 19, 2021 in Chicago.

Colin Garvey '95 has released his third book, The Resistance, in his Fallen Race Trilogy. The Fallen Race Trilogy also includes The Disappearance and The Revelations. Joe Spivak '17 has been named a team captain of the Northwestern University football team. Joe proudly wears #93 and is a defensive tackle. Congratulations to Judy '79 and John Lucas, Tom '82 and Joan Mullins, Jackie'83 and John Stent '83, Katie'85 and John Burke, Shannon '89 and Brian Smith, along with MCHS alumni parents Mike and Sharon Mullins, Bill and Linda Mullins, Ed and Patti Mullins and Marianne and Bill Vivirito, and the entire Mullins Family, on being awarded the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Golden Vest Award at the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Valor Awards Dinner, held at the University of Illinois Chicago Forum, on October 7th. Jessica Browne ‘17 has partnered with AmeriCorps (National Civilian Community Corps) for a 10 month service program. “We will be doing service ranging from natural disaster relief, to ssisting youth camps, building houses and more.”

marriages Taylor Rusen '12 and Ashton Tunk '12 were married on June 19, 2021.

Natalie Jenkins '13 and Mario Conforti '13 were married on September 18, 2021.

ANNIVERSARIES Michael Stark '73 and Sharon (Schmitz) Stark '75 celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on August 14. They met in study hall when Sharon was a freshman and Mike was a junior.

births Mike Norton '01 and his wife Vanessa welcomed James Francisco on August 8. Kate (Canty) Maher '04 and her husband Kevin welcomed Cormac “Mac” James on August 6. He joins big sister Ella and big brother Benjamin. Alexandra Wallace '10 and fiancé David Simek '10 welcomed their first child, Rose, on September 11, 2020.

ALUMNI NEWS

Steven Montalto '06 and Justine (Morano) Montalto '06 welcomed their first child (above), Luca Anthony Montalto, born in January 2021. Brittany (Cummings) Simon '06 and her husband Jason welcomed their second child, Kash Christian, on September 10. Kash weighed in at 6 pounds, 2 ounces. He joins big sister, Phoenix Rose.

Class of 1996 held their 25th on October 23rd at Ballydoyle Irish Pub in Downers Grove.

Class of 2006 held their 15th on September 25th at Nobel House in Glen Ellyn.

REUNIONS

Class of 2010 held their 11th class reunion on October 2 at Main Street Pub in Glen Ellyn. Class of 1980 celebrated their 41st class reunion on October 16 at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard.

Class of 1985 will be celebrating their 36th on Saturday, November 13 at LaBarra in Oak Brook. Register at Montini.org/reunion85 Class of 2001 will be celebrating their 20th on Saturday, November 13 at Reserve 22 in Glen Ellyn. Register at montini.org/reunion01. Class of 2015 will be celebrating their 6th on Saturday, January 29th at O’Neills Pub in Lombard. Register at montini.org/reunion15.

FACULTY FACTOIDS Class of 1986 held their 35th on September 25th at the American Legion Hall in Elmhurst.

Class of 1990 held their 31st on August 14th at O’Neill’s Pub in Lombard.

“Jim Izzo and Sister Michelene Curtis made huge impressions on me, Bill Leeberg as well,” he says. “While I do not consider myself a Catholic anymore, these educators taught me how to view the world through a lens of empathy.” You can ﬁnd Fitzpatrick’s work in the permanent collections of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Miami. Fitzpatrick has also created album art for music icons including Lou Reed, Steve Earle and The Neville Brothers. https://theccma.org/tony-ﬁtzpatrick (Now - through January 31, 2022 )

Montini Catholic Bronco Express

Teacher, Alex Zasso and wife Jessica welcomed their first child, Zoe MeiSui Ang, on July 26.

Congratulations to Tony Fitzpatrick '77, whose secret ambition as a senior was to “slip into the world he draws.” He has truly done just that throughout his extensive art career and is holding his ﬁnal solo museum exhibition at Cleve Carney Museum of Art in Glen Ellyn. The exhibition, Jesus of Western Avenue, features over 60 recent works. Drawing inspiration from Chicago street culture, children’s books, folk art, and tattoo designs, Tony creates graphically rich prints, drawings, and collages. These works deliver reﬂections of his connection to the city, his social and political concerns, and our shared changing reality. His colorful, detail-packed style makes his work recognizable not just in Chicago, but all around the world.

Fall 2021 19

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