2023 VOL. 67
FEATURES
ASC Alumni
Where are they now?
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WHICH ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT COMMANDMENTS? When I prepared for confession in grade school and high school, I would use the Ten Commandments for my examination of conscience. I usually skipped the first three because I was not into strange gods, cursing or missing Mass. So, I concentrated on the fourth, fifth, sixth and the seventh commandments—parents, fighting, impurity and stealing—to determine which of the commandments I violated and how many times. But as I grew older and, hopefully, more mature in my faith life, I realized that the first three commandments are really the most important; that’s why God put them first as he enumerated them for Moses. So, the two adult invitations in the first three commandments are letting God be No. 1 in our lives and keeping the Sabbath. Taking God’s name in vain becomes less a problem as we grow up and become adults. So, how do we grow in letting God be No. 1 in life? It’s basically the same way we develop human loving relationships. We need to spend time with the other person, come to know him or her, and then loving him or her begins to deepen. So, we come to know God in the human face of Jesus by reading the Scriptures and participating in the sacraments. And, as we spend time with Jesus, we come to know Him better, and our love for Him grows. As we come to know and love Jesus, He, His Father, and the Spirit become more real in our lives and they become our No. 1 relationship. How do we keep the Sabbath? The Jews were often looked upon by their neighbors as lazy because they observed the Sabbath—a full day of rest, relaxation and prayer every week. What is behind the observance of the Sabbath? Besides being the third commandment, we have the example of God in the work of creation when He rested on the seventh day. This commandment capitalized on the human need to slow down and have space in life to become attuned to and enjoy the sacredness of creation and time. The Sabbath is taking time to experience, taste and see the goodness of the Lord. We have that same need for rest and leisure in our culture which does not value downtime but only productivity, frenetic activity and restless striving. As Jesus said, “The Sabbath is made for us and not us for the Sabbath.” (Mark 2:27-28) We keep our priorities straight by keeping the first three commandments. Rev. Doug Leonhardt, SJ ’56 Mission Associate and Alumni Chaplain
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Alumni serving, representing MUHS Dear MUHS Friends, One of my favorite MUHS memories occurred in the early ’90s when I was a Jesuit scholastic (the formation role before becoming an ordained priest). Seniors in my eighth period psychology class discovered it was my birthday. To celebrate, they brought me a cake and sang “Happy Birthday” to me. I was so touched by their thoughtfulness. Of course, I knew they also wanted to avoid having class that day, but their kind gesture and sentiments felt genuine to me. We all had a lot of fun that day! There are many more memorable experiences for me during those three years of formation. Directing Senior Follies with Tim Prosser, coaching and winning a State baseball championship with Rick Bridich ’69 and engaging in discussions about best teaching practices with my mentors Father Frank Majka, SJ; Prosser; Jim Kearney; Carol Hardtke and Father Warren Sazama, SJ ’64—just to name a few. These seasoned educators, whom I deeply admire, were always willing to answer questions and provide moral support to me, a young Jesuit trying to live up to the high standards of teaching at Marquette High. It was through my scholastic experience that I learned firsthand the demands of teaching. There were many late nights trying to craft the perfect lesson or assessment for class the next day. Some were winners, some were not. However, I always felt challenged to improve and refine what I was doing in the classroom for the benefit of my students. To remain a relevant, engaging and effective teacher is ever constant. This is why I have such great respect for our faculty—their dedication and commitment to our young men is second to none. I also believe those three formation years allowed me to better understand my God-given gifts and how I can share these with others. I gained confidence through my accomplishments, knowing I could be an effective teacher or successful in whatever role I was called to. More importantly, that early experience at MUHS confirmed: (1) my desire to be a Jesuit priest and (2) that God would continue to be my companion throughout my life’s journey. In many ways, Marquette High’s Alumni Service Corps program parallels a scholastic’s experience, one rooted in spirituality, community and academics. These Marquette High alumni or Jesuit-educated women and men from other
President Michael J. Marco, SJ with Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 award recipients (left to right) Patrick McGarry ’03, Andrew Steinhafel ’04, Favian Gonzalez ’13 and Daniel Rivera ’01. Photo by Mark Frohna
institutions, volunteer for one year at MUHS following their college graduation. They teach, supervise, coach and chaperone with a youthful spirit and closeness in age that allows them to build a unique rapport with students—in some ways like a wise older brother. This is just one of the many reasons why Father George Winzenburg, SJ ’63 started the program almost 30 years ago. I invite you to learn more and get a candid behind-thescenes look at the ASC program through the lens of the ASC’s first director, Victoria Temple Bonesho. In addition to the purpose and history of the program, she shares the highpoints and challenges of the ASC along with heart-felt memories of another ASC director, Mike Feely ’89. Our ASC members play an important role at MUHS. I am grateful for these men and women generously giving back to Marquette High while they discern their future and how they can live out the MUHS mission to be men and women for others. AMDG.
God’s Blessings, Rev. Michael J. Marco, SJ President
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CONTENTS Features 24
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Jack DebBaruah Witnessing history as a U.S. Senate Page
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Remembering Mike Feely ’89, Al Taylor
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Reflections from the first ASC Director Victoria Temple Bonesho shares the history, successes and challenges of the Alumni Service Corps’ early years
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ASC Alumni: Where Are They Now A look at what Alumni Service Corps alumni are doing today
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Father Marquette on the Mississippi The puzzle of the Pere Marquette painting
In every issue 1
President’s Message
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MUHS News Robotics goes to Worlds ShaNaNo returns
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Around MUHS Sports Update Ski takes State
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The Interview Paul Fleisch ’94
Editor: Julie Felser Assistant Editor: Kristen Scheuing
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Writers: Dr. Sy Kreilein, Victoria Temple Bonesho
Class Notes
Photography: Mark Frohna, VIP Photography,
Write the Caption
Peter Bartos, Rodrigo Martinez ’23 Design: Jena Sher Graphic Design
Alumni Update Alumni Spotlight: Kyle Powers ’13
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From the Archives
Printing: The Fox Company Research Assistance: Saturday JUG students
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MUHS NEWS
Robotics wins Wisconsin, Miami Regionals, competes at Worlds Hilltopper Robotics Team 1732 concluded its season ranked in the top five percent of FIRST robotics teams in the world when it finished in the top third at the FIRST Robotics Championship, held in Houston in April. Other Team 1732 highlights of the season include winning two regional competitions and the Wisconsin and Miami Valley Regionals in March. The team also earned two Innovation in Control Awards, which recognizes an innovative control system or application of control components—electrical, mechanical or software—to provide unique machine functions. Sandra Mejia, one of the team’s mentors, won the prestigious Woodie Flowers Award, which is a student-nominated recognition and celebrates effective communication in the art and science of engineering and design. Additionally, the team sponsored 39 community events reaching more than 5,700 youths. Two of those events were FIRST Lego League tournaments, one of which is the largest in the state of Wisconsin. Hilltoppers visited elementary schools, libraries and other organizations through its Books & Bots program; reading robot-related books, demoing robots
and talking about the team’s FIRST experiences. Team 1732 has a partnership with Messmer Saint Rose school in Milwaukee where team members lead STEM activities throughout the school year and support their FLL team, the Rosebots. Students also partnered with Marquette University to create accessible toys for Penfield Children’s Center and visited Gables of Germantown senior community to provide hands-on demonstrations with residents. The FIRST Team 1732 Hilltopper Robotics is made up of MUHS and DSHA students. Since forming in 2006, Hilltopper Robotics has grown to more than 60 members and 15 mentors and won six regional championships. The team partners with nearly 40 local engineering, manufacturing and community organizations as sponsors. The FIRST Robotics Competition brings together high school students to compete in a robotics competition, promotes core values and builds skills in STEM. The teams are tasked with designing and building robots that can complete challenges, such as picking up and moving objects, navigating obstacles and working collaboratively with other teams.
Hilltopper Robotics Team 1732 poses for a group photo after winning the FIRST Robotics Wisconsin Regional and qualifying for the FIRST Robotics Championship held in Houston. The team would go on to finish its season ranked in the top five percent of FIRST robotics teams in the world.
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MUHS NEWS
MUHS implements Ignatian Global Scholars Program
Rodrigo Martinez ’23, and other MUHS students who traveled to the Dominican Republic through the Somos Amigos program, participated in piggy-back races with local children. Somos Amigos is one of the cultural experiences offered to students enrolled in the Global Scholars program.
Muslim students share their MUHS experience The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel published a story about the interfaith dialogue and friendships Muslim students experience at MUHS. Four students, Bilal Khan ’23, Abdullah Noor ’23, Umar Qhavi ’23 and Akram Sheikh ’25, along with President Father Michael Marco, SJ, were interviewed and quoted in the article. Sheikh shares, “The school is focused on brotherhood and community a lot, so it wasn’t too difficult to bond with other people, even though they’re not the same faith as you.” Read the entire article with the code above.
Sophomores and freshmen were invited to apply to the newly offered Ignatian Global Scholars Program for the 2023–24 school year. Developed by the Jesuit Schools Network, the Ignatian Global Scholars Program provides students with educational and experiential opportunities to help them develop into global citizens for and with others. Spanish teacher and Global Educational Coordinator Dan Miller will oversee the program, with assistance from Kevin Murphy, social studies teacher and service immersion programs coordinator, and Adrian Gardner, social studies teacher and director of diversity. Miller says this is an exciting opportunity for students to live out the MUHS mission. “Global citizens are those who continuously seek to deepen their awareness of their place and responsibility in an increasingly interconnected world, both locally and globally; those who stand in solidarity with others in the pursuit of a sustainable earth and a more humane world as true companions in the mission of reconciliation and justice.” To earn an Ignatian Global Scholars certification from MUHS and the Jesuit Schools Network, a student must participate in the program for six semesters, take approved courses with a global dimension, participate in experiences that increase global competencies, and commit to living the Graduate at Graduation ideals in and beyond high school.
“Global citizens are those who continuously seek to deepen their awareness of their place and responsibility in an increasingly interconnected world, both locally and globally . . .” The JSN has spent the last several years developing this program and rolled it out to schools nationwide in the spring of 2022. MUHS is one of seven Jesuit schools to offer the program to its students and will use existing classes, experiences, curriculums and co-curriculars that are already available to students.
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MUHS NEWS
Bonesho, Hardtke honored at 2022 President’s Club Dinner MUHS president Rev. Michael J. Marco, SJ, bestowed the Spirit of St. Ignatius Award on retired teachers Victoria Temple Bonesho and Carol Hardtke at the 2022 President’s Club Dinner. This honor is conferred annually to recognize individuals in the MUHS community who live the Ignatian vision. Bonesho began her tenure at MUHS in 1993 teaching summer school. She eventually went on to teach full time in the English and social studies departments; serve as Social Studies Chair and Assistant Principal of Academics; and moderate the ASC Program, Jesuit Honor Society, Conclave and the Unity Council. Bonesho’s teaching and leadership skills have been recognized with the prestigious Herb Kohl Award for Teaching Excellence, the University of Chicago Teaching Excellence Award and the Hanson Excellence in Teaching Award. Today, she continues to serve MUHS on the Academic and Student Life Committee of the board and with special projects,
including the 2021 National Blue Ribbon School application and Marquette High’s accreditation. Carol Hardtke served MUHS for 35 years, first as a math and computer science teacher and later as Assistant Principal of Academics. Beyond the classroom, she served in a number of leadership positions, including a term on the MUHS Board of Directors as the faculty representative and multiple terms on the Faculty Senate. She also staffed student retreats and moderated the computer club, Conclave and the “Flambeau” Yearbook. Hardtke was known as a talented forensic coach by students and peers. She went on to serve as president of the Wisconsin State Coaches’ Association and was inducted into the Wisconsin Forensic Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame. In retirement, Hardtke continues to volunteer at MUHS.
Victoria Temple Bonesho with President Father Michael Marco, SJ
Carol Hardtke Photos by VIP Photography
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MUHS NEWS
Civic Music MKE honors Randy Skowronski Civic Music MKE named jazz teacher Randy Skowronski its 2023 Teacher of the Year, which annually recognizes an individual for his/her outstanding work in the field of music education. He was honored in March at the Civic Music MKE awards reception, featuring a performance by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Skowronski is completing his 37th year of teaching jazz at Marquette High. Over the years, his students have earned first-place awards at several jazz festivals, including UW–Eau Claire, UW–Stevens Point, UW–Platteville, UW–La Crosse, Marquette University,
Randy Skowronski Photo by VIP Photography
and Jazz Festivals at Sea. Under Skowronski’s direction, Jazz Lab 4 was selected to take part in the pilot program for Disney’s Jazz It Up! performance and workshop experience, which is now offered regularly as part of the Disney Performing Arts programs at both Disneyland and Disney World. MUHS alumni have gone on to study and/or perform with Harry Connick, Jr., Charles McPherson, Jeff Coffin, Snarky Puppy (Mike Maher ’00), Tamara Danielsson, Per Danielsson, Brian Lynch, Dave Riekenberg, Danny Jordan, Kim Richmond, Ernie Watts, Ernie Adams ’79 and Carl Allen. Skowronski has studied music at various institutions throughout the United States, including the University of North Texas, California Institute of the Arts, UW–Milwaukee and UW– Parkside. He has a long list of performance credits for more than 40 artists, including The Temptations, The Manhattan Transfer and Norm Crosby. Civic Music MKE supports music education and provides performance opportunities to young musicians in the Greater Milwaukee area.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT MY FAVORITE MUHS MOMENT . . .
Christian Garnica ’26 My favorite moment of my MUHS experience so far has been the Food Fair, which made me realize that MUHS is full of various cultures and ethnicities. Eating foods from all over the world at the lunch table with my friends that day was so fun and something I will never forget since barely any of us had tried some of the food before.
Jacob Lindemann ’26 It was when I realized that I belonged HERE and no other place because I have so many friends and the faculty are amazing.
Stephen Deslongchamps ’26 My favorite moment of my Marquette experience so far was the teacher band performance. All the teachers who were involved were entertaining and the song choices were awesome.
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MUHS NEWS
Sha Na No surprises students with performance Faculty rock band, Sha Na No, surprised students with a performance in February. The seven-song set included “Seven Nation Army” (The White Stripes), “Gimme Some Lovin’” (The Spencer Davis Group), “Shake It Off” (Taylor Swift), “Ramblin’ Man” (Allman Brothers Band), “American Girl” (Tom Petty), “Funky Marquette” (based on “Funky Nassau” [The Beginning of the End]) and “Bang the Drum All Day” (Todd Rundgren). The Sha Na No tradition began in 1975 when teachers surprised students and then-departing principal Rev. Doug Leonhardt, SJ, ’56 with a concert in the auditorium. Since that time, the band has always comprised faculty and staff sharing their musical talents to entertain students. The group’s performance date is always top secret—one never knows when the rockers will appear, although it’s usually once every four years.
As English teacher Kyle Pollard ’06 sang Tom Petty’s “American Girl” with help from fellow colleagues, students responded by pulling out their phones to light up the audience. No JUGS were issued. Photo by Rodrigo Martinez ’23
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MUHS NEWS
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MUHS NEWS
HILLTOPPER HIGHLIGHTS Rev. Tom Doyle, SJ, returned to MUHS to serve as a part-time sacramental minister and is assisting with Kairos Retreats. Mr. Ben Rogers, SJ, joined the MUHS community as a Jesuit Novice. He attended Creighton University where he majored in economics and played on the golf team. Prior to coming to MUHS to serve in the theology department, Rogers studied and worked at the novitiate in St. Paul, Minn. Rev. Ross Pribyl, SJ, ’79 established a new group called the Ministry Squad, a group of more than 50 students serving as liturgical ministers, assisting with morning prayers and helping with other Campus Ministry activities. Director of Counseling Jen Reuchlen completed a six-week, 200-hour class to become a certified yoga instructor and social-emotional learning facilitator. Techniques from the course have been utilized during Wellness Workshops offered weekly during homeroom.
Key Club, moderated by Annette Cleary and Michael Neubeck, coordinated Marquette High’s annual Christmas Basket drive to benefit 150 families through the House of Peace. The MUHS community raised $4,500 in cash and another $4,500 worth of toys and gift cards to assist those in need during the holidays. The group also sponsored a community-wide blood drive in February and collected 108 units of blood with 63 first-time donors. These donations will impact 324 area patients. Ten members of the Class of 2023 were named National Merit Semifinalists: Cullen Bartz, Jacob Black, Trey Cotey, Jack DebBaruah, Daniel Egelhoff, Matthew Eskritt, Henry Halpern, Charles O’Connor, Cole Simi and Josh Urban. Additionally, the National Merit Scholarship announced that seniors Francis Anggara, Luke deGuzman, Lincoln Marshall, Thomas Ragonese, Jonathan Regan, Max Sidem, Nicholas Swiderski and Charlie Taschler were recognized as Commended Students. The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes students for excellent performance on the PSAT.
School counselor Phil Stollenwerk ’92 became a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid instructor. He, along with Reuchlen, will provide this training to MUHS employees. Annette Cleary became a certified Teen Mental Health First Aid instructor. She, along with other counseling team members, will deliver this program to sophomores this semester. Recently retired geology teacher Jim Kostenko has returned to MUHS as an Ignatian instruction coach for faculty members. In this role, he will focus his coaching efforts on the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm and help seasoned educators to deepen their practice in the pedagogical movements of experience, reflection and action. Social studies teacher Adrian Gardner was appointed the new diversity director. Gardner, student groups Orgullo Latino and Brothers of Culture, and other MUHS colleagues hosted Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, the MLK Mass, the Food Fair and TopperTalks throughout the school year. The Class of 2023 wrote and performed the Senior Follies, “The Return of Ram Man.” The production was directed by social studies teachers Chris Lese ’92 and Jon Parsons.
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(Left to right) Jack Czukas ’25, JJ Eagleeye ’23, Tristen Yang ’23, Henry Halpern ’23 and Anahi Espinoza performing in the Winter Play, “The Sting.” Photo by VIP Photography
(Left to right) Emmit Marsho ’26, Emma Hipp, Alex Blackwood ’23, JJ Eagleeye ’23, Emily Fricker, and Jaloni Brown ’24 performing in the Spring Musical, “The Addams Family.” Photo by VIP Photography
Three MUHS students were recognized by the statewide Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Charlie Doucette ’23 won a Gold Key for his chair sculpture “Pearl the Pretty Girl Chair.” Henry Merz ’23 won a Silver Key for his pen and ink drawing “Hallway.” John Warren ’24 won an honorable mention for his lamp “X-Form Lamp.” Their work was on display at the Milwaukee Art Museum in March. Hilltoppers had a strong showing at the Wisconsin State Debate Tournament. Omar Frostman ’23 and Braden Shambarger ’25 were quarterfinalists in the JV Public Forum Debate. Owen O’Leary ’24 was a finalist in the JV LincolnDouglas Debate and Ethan Zhang ’24 ranked second in individual speaker points for varsity Lincoln-Douglas Debate. The MUHS Forensics Team competed in Wisconsin Forensics Coaches Association State Tournament in April and achieved the following honors: Owen Killoran ’23 1st place in Extemporaneous Speaking; Matthew Pennington ’23 4th place in Extemporaneous Speaking; Nick Pienkos ’25 5th place in Extemporaneous Speaking; Ethan Zhang ’24 6th place in Extemporaneous Speaking; Braden Shambarger ’25 semifinalist
in Radio Announcing; and Alex Blackwood ’23 semifinalist in Solo Humorous Acting. The National Speech and Debate Association recognized the following students with awards for their achievements in Forensics and Debate: Honor recognition went to Elom Adjanor ’25, Noah Berger ’24, Mitchell Henry ’25; Special Distinction to Pranav Nair ’23; Distinction to Matthew Pennington ’23; Excellence to Nick Pienkos ’25, Jonah Watkins ’24; and Superior Distinction to Ethan Zhang ’24. Student musicians participated in the WSMA District Solo & Ensemble Festival: Owen Bell ’24 (2nd tier rating–Class A violin solo), Michael Anggara ’24 (1st tier rating–Class A violin solo), Ethan Brown ’25 (1st tier rating–Class B piano solo), Jack Czukas ’25 (1st tier rating–Class B viola solo), Ethan Origenes ’26 (1st tier rating–Class C piano solo). The following students also received 1st tier ratings for their Class A performances and moved onto the State competition: Francis Anggara ’23 (violin solo), Cooper Dunlop ’25 (piano solo), Christopher Velasquez-Perez ’26 (guitar solo), Gustavo Mora-Munoz ’25 (guitar solo), Issac Visser ’24 (snare drum and marimba solos).
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MUHS NEWS
MUHS families hosted 18 students and two teachers from Christoph-Scheiner Gymnasium in Ingolstadt, Germany, as a part of the long-standing exchange program with the school. During their two-week stay, German students attended classes and extra-curricular activities with their host students and toured Milwaukee, with visits to German heritage sites, the Harley-Davidson Museum and Marquette University. As part of Career Day, juniors participated in a personal finance program called SecureFutures Money Path, a financial education platform that enables students to explore how their decisions about college, career, budgeting, debt and saving will impact
their long term goals and financial security. Additionally, they attended workshops, presented by professionals with expertise in financial planning. Spanish teacher Marie Mansfield, theology teacher Lauren Enriquez, Fr. John LoCoco ’10 and approximately 25 Hilltoppers Defending Life students joined other Jesuit school students to participate in a National Prayer Vigil for Life at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C., where they and other pilgrims prayed for the dignity of all human life, particularly the unborn.
Hilltoppers Defending Life students attending the National Prayer Vigil for Life at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
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MUHS NEWS
Owen Killoran ’23, David Manning ’22 and Charlie O’Conner ’23 participating on the TV show Spectrum News Challenge.
Former Seniors Shared Life directors, retired English teacher Terry Kelly (far left) and retired math teacher Rick Bridich ’69 (far right), join current Senior Shared Life directors, campus ministry director Paul Farrell (left) and science teacher JR Collier, for the Senior Shared Life prayer service. This year marked the service program’s 50th anniversary.
Owen Killoran ’23, Charlie O’Conner ’23 and David Manning ’22 competed and won against their opponents on the TV show Spectrum News Challenge, a nationally-televised program where high school students compete head-to-head to win prizes and the title of Spectrum News Challenge Champion. Jeremiah Johnson ’25 received the City of Milwaukee inaugural Emerging Leader award, recognizing his leadership in the community and his work with 29ELEVEN, a nonprofit he and his mother founded to bring interactive cause marketing and initiatives to urban areas that reach individuals and bridge volunteerism in non-traditional ways.
Jeremiah Johnson ’25 being interviewed by CBS 58 after receiving the City of Milwaukee Emerging Leader award.
Past and present Senior Shared Life directors Terry Kelly, Paul Farrell, JR Collier and Rick Bridich ’69 were guest speakers at the 2023 Senior Shared Life prayer service to celebrate the program’s 50th anniversary and to pray for the Class of 2023 as they embarked on the immersion service experience. Students through the Senior Shared Life, which has seniors serving full time for two weeks at daycare centers, schools and nursing homes, collectively contributed more than 15,000 hours to the greater Milwaukee community. This capstone experience also builds kinship and understanding with those for whom they serve.
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The Science Olympiad team after winning the Wisconsin Regional tournament and earning an invitation to the 2023 National Tournament in Wichita, Kan.
The MUHS Science Olympiad Team, coached by Nicole Williams, Russell Craze and Sue Kahler, placed 1st at the Wisconsin regional tournament for the third consecutive year. As a result, the team was invited to compete in the national championship tournament in May. The team also competed in national competitions at MIT, University of Michigan and Northwestern University, placing 2nd at the prestigious Northwestern Invitational. In recognition of the team’s achievements, Williams, Luke Josetti ’25, Trevor Waltersdorf ’25, Kolbe Schlosser ’24 and Ronak Patel ’24 appeared on the CBS 58 morning show to talk about and provide demonstrations of some of the Science Olympiad competitions. Spanish teacher Diana Oliva and theology teacher Mary Beth McBride Doyle traveled to Ohio with Judson Hansbrough ’24, Tomás Holsen ’25, Jack Cavanaugh ’25, Elzavion Landry ’25 and Ethan Zhang ’24 to participate in the Ignatian Solidarity Network Arrupe Leader Summit, which invites emerging student leaders and adult chaperones from high schools and parishes nationwide to deepen their understanding of “a faith that does justice,” share ideas and resources for social justice programming, and become empowered to effect positive social change in their local and global communities.
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Spanish teacher Diana Oliva, Judson Hansbrough ’24, Tomás Holsen ’25, Jack Cavanaugh ’25, Elzavion Landry ’25, Ethan Zhang ’24 and theology teacher Mary Beth McBride Doyle attending the Ignatian Solidarity Network Arrupe Leader Summit.
AROUND MUHS
AROUND MUHS
Jesuit-Inspired Art
Original artwork, including pieces created by students, alumni and teachers, grace MUHS spaces to illustrate the school’s Jesuit identity and heritage. Photos by Mark Frohna
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SPORTS UPDATE
Emmet O’Malley Named Head Lacrosse Coach MUHS academic support teacher Emmet O’Malley has been promoted to head lacrosse coach for the 2023 season. “I am ecstatic to take on the duties of varsity lacrosse coach at Marquette High,” O’Malley said. “As a coach, I emphasize patience and understanding in order to successfully work with teenagers and strive to set them up for success in the long run. With these principles in mind, I believe that we can continue to build upon a proud legacy of Hilltopper lacrosse.” O’Malley was previously the Hilltoppers varsity assistant coach. He served as the varsity lacrosse coach for the West Bend Rush, a K–12 program based out of Washington County, from 2017 to 2022. In addition, he is the owner and director of operations at Top Center Lacrosse Club in Ozaukee County. “The administration of Marquette High is excited about the future of the lacrosse program under the leadership of Coach O’Malley, and we have the utmost confidence in the team to achieve excellence this season and beyond,” athletic director Bob Herman ’85 says. “I am really excited about his growth mindset and desire for personal growth, staff development and team cohesion aligning with the high standards and mission of Marquette High.”
“The administration of Marquette High is excited about the future of the lacrosse program under the leadership of Coach O’Malley, and we have the utmost confidence in the team to achieve excellence this season and beyond.”
O’Malley has more than five years of education experience in addition to his coaching experience. Before joining Marquette High’s Kingsbury Academic Success Center team, he served as a student success coach/supervisor at Badger Middle School in West Bend, Wis. He has also worked as a fifth- and sixthgrade teacher at Journey Lutheran School in Hales Corners and as a sixth-, 7th- and eighth-grade teacher at LUMIN Granville Lutheran School in Milwaukee. O’Malley received his bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Concordia University Wisconsin. He currently resides in Wauwatosa. Head lacrosse coach Emmet O’Malley. Photo by Mark Frohna
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SPORTS UPDATE
SPORTS UPDATE SPORTS UPDATE Michael Vazquez ’17
#29 Andrew Gengler ’23, #42 Tommy Novotny ’26 and #50 Matt Fessler ’24 Photo by VIP Photography
The football team finished the season as Greater Metro Conference runner-up with a 5–2 conference record and 6–5 overall record. The Hilltoppers were the only team to defeat eventual GMC champion Sussex Hamilton during the regular season. Luke Novotny ’23, Julius Blanco ’23 and MUHS defensive coordinator, Coach James Becker were selected for the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association’s All-Star Game. Defensive back Murphy Monreal ’24 and kicker/punter Erik Schmidt ’25 received WFCA all-state honorable mention.
Robert Richardson ’23 and Andrew Pienkos ’23 received Wisconsin Football Coaches Association Academic All-State honors for their academic record. Upperclassmen who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Richardson, Pienkos, Joaquin Beard ’23, JJ Driscoll ’24, Cam Finerty ’23, Dillon Gallagher ’24, Tate Kowalik ’24, David Martinez ’24, Sam McGown ’24, Haiden Meier ’24, Josh Nacker ’24, Patrick O’Brien ’24, Bryce Roder ’24, Connor Roeader ’24, Nate Schramm ’24, Mason Sherwood ’23, Ryan Tomlinson ’24 and Nick Womack ’24.
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SPORTS UPDATE
The cross-country team of Charlie Cary ’26, Coleman Lenci ’23, Andres Campos ’26, Peter Gavahan ’25, Thomas Menefee ’24, Brendan Reardon ’26 and Cooper Wood ’23, advanced to the WIAA State meet. Fielding the youngest and most inexperienced team at State, the Hilltoppers finished in 14th place out of 20 teams. Team leader Lenci was voted Greater Metro Conference Male Runner of the Year by the GMC coaches. Upperclassmen who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Eli Bostrack ’24, Nate Clayton ’23, Jay Gelhard ’23, Matthew Hayes ’24, William Koehler ’24, Lenci, Michael Phillips ’24, Kolbe Schlosser ’24 and Jacob Wood ’24. The soccer team won its 12th consecutive Greater Metro Conference championship, 22nd consecutive regional championship and 20th sectional championship since joining the WIAA in 2000. The Hilltoppers finished their season as State runners-up, falling to Verona in the championship game. Owen Marshall ’23 was named United Coaches All-American and GMC Player of the Year. Marshall and C.J. Deslongchamps ’23 were named United Coaches all-midwest and WSCA first team all-state. Liam Nelson ’23 and Owen Schneider ’23 were named WSCA all-state. Upperclassmen who received GMC scholarathlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Ben Anggara ’24, Mason Brewer ’24, Trey Cotey ’23, Deslongchamps, Zach Deslongchamps ’23, Aidan Ferber ’23, Ryan Hambrook ’23, Felix Huwiler ’24, Connor Kraus ’23, Jake Ledger ’23, Marshall, Nelson, Nick Rusch ’24 and Schneider. Owen Marshall ’23, named United Coaches All-American. Photo by VIP Photography
The volleyball team finished its season as State runner-up and with an overall record of 35–3. All three losses were to the eventual state champion Catholic Memorial High School. The Wisconsin Volleyball Coaches Association named Nate Flayter ’23 and Jack Fitterer ’24 first team all-state. Cole Simi ’23 and Miles Von Rueden ’24 were named honorable mention all-state. Upperclassmen who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Sam Christenson ’24, Luke deGuzman ’23, Fitterer, Flayter, Jack Regan ’23, Simi, Matt Wisniewski ’23, and Zach Wisniewski ’23. In addition, Regan received the Milwaukee Bucks Perseverance Award, given to a senior student-athlete who has overcome adversity (physical, emotional, personal) to compete and or excel in interscholastic sports.
Cross-country runners (left to right) Colman Lenci ‘23, Patrick McKenna ‘23, Dermot More O’Ferrall ‘25, Kenny Maciolek ‘26, Charlie Cary ‘26, Thomas Menefee ‘24, Jay Gelhard ‘23 and Jack Kwiatt ‘25 Photo by VIP Photography
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Powerlifters Javier Espino ’24, Calvin Sommer ’24 and Julius Blanco ’23 competed at the 2023 WHSPA State Meet. Espino took ninth place and Blanco took third. Six powerlifting school records were broken, including the highest bench in team history by Blanco.
SPORTS UPDATE
The basketball team, with an overall record of 21–7, finished its season as WIAA Regional champs and Greater Metro Conference champs (tied). The Hilltoppers were only one game away from making the state tournament in Madison when they fell to De Pere High School, who went on to win the state championship. Head coach Casey Kowalewski ’98 was named GMC Coach of the Year. Nolan Minessale ’24 was named Greater Metro Conference Player of the Year and Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association first team all-state. Upperclassmen who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Andrew Allen ’24, Trey Cotey ’23, Peter McDevitt ’24, Andrew Pienkos ’23, Mickey Simi ’23 and Daniel Tanty ’23. The wrestling and swim teams had rebuilding years. Upperclassmen wrestlers who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Abdullah Noor ’12 and Gabe Sanchez ’12. Upperclassmen swimmers who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Marshall Bates ’24, Noah Berger ’24, Stephen Bethe ’23, Leo Cutraro ’24, Aiden Dimino ’24, Ben Leahy ’24, Agali Pedriana ’24, Joseph Smukowski ’24 and Ethan Zhang ’24. The hockey team finished above 500 with an overall record of 4–3. Upperclassmen hockey players who received GMC scholar-athlete honors (3.5 GPA or higher) included Jack Ambrose ’23, Charlie Barker ’24, Alexander Champeny ’24, William Mehring ’23, Dirk Pawlak ’23 and Justin Siclovan ’24.
Nolan Minessale ’24 surpassed Donald Jordan ’91 and Damon Key ’90 to set the single-season scoring record at MUHS. Photo by VIP Photography
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Ski Takes State The ski team of Jack Steiner ’23, Simon Bartos ’25, Ronan Sullivan ’23, Emmet Klaus ’24, Henry Ackley ’24, Bobby Wendt ’26 and Henry Merz ’23 captured the Wisconsin State High School Ski Division 2 title. Helping the Hilltoppers get to the awards podium was Jack Steiner, who placed fourth in the Giant Slalom and ninth in Super G. Simon Bartos placed 17th in the combined event.
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SPORTS UPDATE
Seniors Playing College Sports in the Fall of 2023 Luke Agnew, Baseball, Wichita State University Spencer Bjork, Lacrosse, Tiffin University Alex Blackwood, Football, Wisconsin Lutheran College Julius Blanco, Football, Augustana College Ethan Davis, Volleyball, Viterbo University Cam Finerty, Football, UW–Oshkosh Nate Flayter, Volleyball, McKendree University Andrew Gengler, Football, UW–Whitewater above: Ski team on the awards podium after capturing the D2 State title (left to right): Coach Andrew Letter, Simon Bartos ’25, Bobby Wendt ’26, Emmet Klaus ’24, Jack Steiner ’23, Henry Merz ’23, Ronan Sullivan ’23, Henry Ackley ’24, coach Mike Sweeney and coach Kyle Kossack. Photo by Peter Bartos
Colman Lenci, Cross Country/Track, Michigan Tech University Owen Marshall, Soccer, University of Massachusetts Lowell Nico Mosca, Soccer, Millikin University Luke Novotny, Football, Michigan Tech University
opposite: Jack Steiner ’23 Photo by Peter Bartos
Charlie Wermers, Football, UW–Platteville Sam Wronski, Baseball, Emory University Parker Wyatt, Baseball, Dayton University
ASK THE ATHLETE WHAT IS YOUR PRE-GAME RITUAL?
Joaquin Beard ’23 Football
Cole Simi ’23 Volleyball
Mike Catherall ’23 Hockey
Luke Novotny ’23, Thad Hoffman ’24, Peter McDevitt ’24 and I would make our way to a corner of the field to play catch for about 20 minutes before the rest of the team came out to begin warmups. This time was so special because, while we were throwing the ball around, the four of us were silent the entire time. Once we were loose, we would circle up and give each other a group hug. We didn’t need any music, pep talks or yelling to get us dialed in; all we needed was each other.
My favorite pregame tradition was during home games. The whole varsity team would run out of the gym, through the second floor of MUHS and down to the chapel, where would pray as a team.
My pregame ritual was drinking two red Gatorades before every game, which brought me great success on the ice.
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THE INTERVIEW
THE INTERVIEW
Paul Fleisch ’94 Paul Fleisch ’94 teaches AP Biology and is Chair of the Science Department. He, along with his science colleagues, worked with Chris and John McDermott ’76 and architect Dan Beyer ’86 to create the McDermott Innovation Center, a space allowing students to collaborate and further explore their STEM interests.
What is the purpose of the McDermott Innovation Center? The Innovation Center is designed to support STEM education programming and curriculum integration at MUHS. In more practical terms, this space is intended to be a disruptor in students’ typical day and give them the time and place to explore various subject areas with more freedom and less fear of failure. We want students to think beyond the typical parameters of their classes and be creative, imagine the possibilities.
What opportunities does this space provide that a science classroom does not? A science lab is a pretty specific place for a specific purpose. Even within the distinct purposes of our biology,
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THE INTERVIEW
“One of my favorite features of this space is the north wall— it’s filled with quotes to encourage boldness in problemsolving and acknowledge that failure is a part of any significant move forward.” chemistry and physics labs, they all have a clear goal of creating specific learning opportunities in those fields. The McDermott Innovation Center is meant to encompass a broader concept—the sky is the limit on where a teacher could take the class. This space also provides opportunities for cross-curricular learning. As wonderful as the equipment is, it’s not the equipment, but our students’ ideas that will drive the space.
(hardware and software) to make ideas a reality. Or, they can do something as integrated as virtual modeling—examine an existing product design, explore product upgrades and efficiencies, then prototype a modified version.
What input did teachers provide to the architect during the design phase of this space? We wanted the McDermott Innovation Center to have an industrial feel to differentiate it from a normal classroom. We wanted large desks to facilitate teamwork and group creativity. It’s loaded with storage so different teachers can be working on projects at the same time. One of my favorite features of this space is the north wall—it’s filled with quotes to encourage boldness in problemsolving and acknowledge that failure is a part of any significant move forward. There’s a handful of Easter eggs, too! See any AMDGs?
How do students and teachers use this space? The Science Olympiad team, and more specifically the build teams, have extensively used the McDermott Innovation Center in preparation for their competitions. I have enjoyed using the space with my biology students as it invites thinking outside the box. For example, my students spent a couple of days learning Autodesk’s Fusion 360 which they used to design cell organelles in a 3D space. They prototyped the design on the filament 3D printer and printed a final version on the resin printer for highest quality and then laser-cut the organelles. We will present the final project to a middle school to foster some excitement for both science and the potential of the innovation center. I believe as time goes on, both teachers and students will continue to discover innovative ways to use the space.
What are the benefits of the McDermott Innovation Center? Creativity, creativity, creativity! This space evokes creativity. Students walk into the space and understand this is a different and special learning space that demands more than the typical classroom. Additionally, the McDermott Innovation Center is equipped with the necessary resources and technology
Is the McDermott Innovation Center only used by the science teachers? While this space lends itself to the STEM classes, other disciplines have benefitted from using this space. English teacher John (Wally) Waliszewski ’93, in collaboration with academic technology coordinator Tom Mussoline, challenged Perspectives in Science Fiction students to create a vision for the future and were encouraged
to use Ray Bradbury’s outlining of speculative fiction strands: “What if?” “If only?” and “If this continues.” Students submitted a variety of works, including a classical piece re-invented as it may be performed in the future, a coded message delivered on a digital screen from the future and a color drawing of MUHS after an apocalypse. Also, art teacher Peter Beck, who teaches 3D Design and AP Art Studio, sees the McDermott Innovation Center as an extension of the art department and another fabrication space for students’ creative ideas. How does the Innovation Center prepare students for life after high school? Today’s workplace is ever evolving and values collaboration and innovative thinking. The activities we do in the innovation center are team-based and get students to go beyond the traditional expectations of a high school curriculum. It’s an experience they’ll have in college, especially if a student wants to pursue research opportunities. It’s definitely a forward-thinking style of education.
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FEATURES
Jack DebBaruah ’23 Witnessing history as a U.S. Senate page Julie Felser
Jack DebBaruah ’23 didn’t really follow politics during his early years of high school. But that all changed in 2020. “I became really interested in the 2020 elections. And, not just the presidential, but the senate and downballot races, too,” he explains.
That’s also around the time he discovered the U.S. Senate Page Program—a more than 200-year-old tradition of young Americans serving alongside leaders in the U.S. Senate. The nonpartisan and highly selective program hosts up to 30 high school juniors students each session, offering them a unique front-row seat to history as they deliver legislative correspondence between the House, the Senate, member’s offices and committees. DebBaruah applied, interviewed and was selected to be a page for the Spring 2022 session. Living a few blocks from the Capitol building in the Daniel Webster Senate Page Residence, DebBaruah rose each day at 5 a.m. and reported an hour later to the United States Senate Page School, a program designed to complement the student’s academic work at home. His course load consisted of four honors classes, each just 35 minutes long. “The expectation was that you were doing the readings and course assignments after work or in your free time,” he explains. “Perhaps some students found that challenging, but Marquette High definitely prepared me for the rigor.” After classes concluded, typically around 8:45 a.m., the pages reported to the Capitol building to begin their day’s work—distributing documents, taking messages
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for senators and being available for various tasks. The page workday typically concluded around 6 p.m., but could go as late as midnight depending on when the senate’s session adjourned. DebBaruah recalls being a bit starstruck his first couple of weeks. “I was shocked the first few times I saw a senator about the Congressional complex or if we rode in an elevator or subway car together, but eventually you get used to it,” he says. “Like when a senator would engage you in conversation and ask you how school was going. It was such a cool experience.”
“The expectation was that you were doing the readings and course assignments after work or in your free time. Perhaps some students found that challenging, but Marquette High definitely prepared me for the rigor.”
Several senators made a positive impression on DebBaruah, including U.S Senator Tammy Baldwin, his sponsoring senator, U.S. Senator Cory Booker and U.S. Senator James Lankford. “Senator Booker is really charismatic and fun to be around. He would always make a point to stop and talk with the pages.” DebBaruah explains, “Senator Lankford was another senator who was very kind to us. He met our entire page class
and talked to us about his involvement with his church back in Oklahoma and how his faith informs some of his decisions. I really enjoyed hearing from him.” In addition to meeting lawmakers, DebBaruah says another highlight of being a page was experiencing Congress during historical moments, such as a Supreme Court Justice confirmation, the invasion of Ukraine and Roe v. Wade. “Because of our proximity, you get to see history unfolding in front of you. I really appreciated that.” He recalls witnessing debates on gun control and attending a joint session of Congress when Greece’s prime minister visited the U.S. DebBaruah says he was surprised by the nonpartisanship he experienced, both in the Senate and among the other pages. “I think I expected it to be more black and white in terms of Democrat-Republican while I was there, but that’s not what I experienced,” he says. “Senators were always respectful and collegial. It was common to see senators from different parties discussing the day’s agenda or asking about their family or weekend plans. And, most bills passed in a bipartisan fashion.” His roommates, from Alabama, Oregon and Kansas, possessed a “healthy mix of political opinions,” he says. “I expected friend groups to form based on who’s a Democrat and who’s a Republican, but that definitely wasn’t the case. Some of my best friends were the ones who, on paper, I had the least in common with,” he explains. “I think working with people from vastly different backgrounds was one the most valuable experiences from my time in D.C.” After his time in the nation’s capital, DebBaruah secured a summer position working in the City of Milwaukee mayor’s office as a staff assistant—answering phones, drafting official correspondence and helping constituents with a variety of issues.
“Because of our proximity, you get to see history unfolding in front of you. I really appreciated that.”
above: DebBaruah (left) with U.S. Senator Cory Booker and U.S. Senate Page Ty Martin (Mississippi). During a vote in the Senate chamber, DeBaruah and Martin take attendance of senators arriving off of the Capitol subway and inform the Senate Democratic and Republican Cloakrooms when they spotted a senator who still needed to cast his/her vote. Photo by SIPA USA
Just recently, DebBaruah was awarded a Congressional Bronze Medal (Congress’ highest honor for youth civilians) for his service and leadership within the Milwaukee community, and more specifically, his work in support of MPS students at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. DebBaruah will attend Stanford University in the fall majoring in political science and international relations.
opposite: Photo by Angela Persil
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Remembering Mike Feely ’89 and Alton “Al” Taylor, Jr. Mr. Mike Feely ’89 Longtime English teacher and coach Mike Feely ’89 passed away in July 2022.
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A graduate of UW–Stevens Point, Feely started his career in secondary education in 1995 as an MUHS Alumni Service Corps member. He would go on to teach and coach at Washington High School in Milwaukee and Nathan Hale High School in West Allis, Wis., before landing his dream job—teaching English and coaching football and baseball—at his alma mater. During his 23-year tenure at Marquette High he would also serve as student activities coordinator, Conclave co-moderator, basketball announcer and Kairos and sophomore retreat leader. A creative and charismatic educator, Feely had a unique way of engaging and connecting with his students to excite them about whatever content he was presenting. He often used humor and silliness to lighten situations and build strong relationships with his students and players, especially those who might be struggling. His strong faith in God influenced the care and compassion he showed to the young men at MUHS. One of Feely’s unofficial titles at school was MUHS historian. He served as a go-to colleague for all historical questions relating to Marquette High and its constituents. He played an integral role on the planning committee for the school’s 150th Anniversary celebration, especially the Grand Homecoming Open House event, in 2007. Feely also played the starring role in most of Marquette High’s calendar-year-end fundraising videos, including Between Two Feelys, Feely Ruins Everything, The Topper Zone and an MUHS Christmas Carol.
MICHAEL T. FEELY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND (2023) Established by family and friends in memory of beloved English teacher and coach Mike Feely ’89, who passionately and selflessly served the MUHS community for 23 years. He “bled blue and gold” and was known for his booming announcing voice, engaging science fiction class discussions and ability to connect with students on the athletic field. The purpose of this fund is to support students demonstrating financial need.
Mike Feely had an amazing impact on both of our sons. He had a gift for making every Hilltopper feel like they belonged to the MUHS brotherhood in their own way. Susan Scott (Christopher ’11 and Matthew ’13) I always counted Mr. Feely among my favorite teachers. He made class engaging and thought provoking. He opened my mind to a whole new realm of literature and got me to think differently about the way it can speak about society and humanity. I’ll forever be grateful that he was a part of my life. Chris Oliva ’06
FEATURES
Alumni, parents and fellow colleagues are memorializing two longtime MUHS educators who had a profound influence on students both in the classroom and on the field. English teacher and coach Mr. Michael Feely ’89 and retired Assistant Dean of Students and coach Mr. Alton Taylor both passed away in 2022. Memorial gifts from MUHS constituents have been used to establish scholarship funds to continue their legacy of caring for and educating young men in the Catholic Jesuit tradition. For more information about these scholarship funds, please contact John Thimmesch at thimmesch@muhs.edu or 414-933-7220.
Mr. Alton “Al” Taylor, Jr. Retired assistant dean of students, coach and Work Grant coordinator Mr. Al Taylor, Jr. passed away in November 2022.
Taylor joined the MUHS faculty in 1998 and retired in June 2020. Throughout his 22-year tenure, he was known for his larger-than-life presence in MUHS hallways, complete with baseball bat and gargantuan key ring in hand. Despite his intimidating persona and seemingly gruff exterior, he was deeply admired and respected by students and colleagues for his kind and caring heart. His entertaining quips, such as “This ain’t Burger King—you can’t have it your way!” earned him a perennial spot in the Senior Follies production. Beyond his service at MUHS, Taylor was an active volunteer at St. Roman Parish—helping with the church’s annual festival, serving as basketball coordinator and coaching other sports and activities. Taylor graduated from West Side High School in Gary, Ind., where he was a four-year varsity football player. He also was on the wrestling team and served as a lifeguard at various pools and beaches in Northwest Indiana. He went on to attend South Carolina State University and Carthage College, before eventually serving four years in the U.S. Coast Guard. He achieved his childhood dream of becoming a firefighter when he joined the City of Milwaukee Fire Department in 1980. Fifteen years later, Taylor’s fire-fighting career would end after he fell through a roof, broke his back and went on duty disability. Then-Dean of Students Bob Herman ’85 recruited Taylor to join the MUHS faculty in the late ’90s.
ALTON “AL” TAYLOR, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (2023) Established for this beloved coach and assistant dean of students, who was deeply admired by students and colleagues alike for his unique style of combining discipline and cura personalis, care for the whole person. The fund’s purpose is to assist young men, prioritizing those from disadvantaged backgrounds, who embody servant leadership and contribute to the pursuit of the school’s mission through academic excellence, athletics and other extracurriculars.
A man who could strike fear into your heart and have you laughing to the point of tears within a matter of two sentences. Jeremy Balzer ’03 A truly great man. Nobody was better than Mr. Taylor at keeping us all in line, but in a way that you could not help but love him. That is a rare talent and level of charisma. He brought a lot of joy to my time at MUHS and I am very grateful to have spent four years with him. Adam Purcell ’03
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REFLECTIONS FROM THE FIRST ALUMNI SERVICE CORPS DIRECTOR Victoria Temple Bonesho
FEATURES
A Marquette University High School experience has always taught the importance of encouraging students to serve others “as Christ has taught.” As “men for others,” our graduates are encouraged to mirror this lesson long past graduation. Each year, MUHS provides its alumni an opportunity to do just that—to use their God-given talents to give back to their alma mater through the Alumni Service Corps program. I had the honor of serving as director of this program for 12 years. ASC provides an opportunity for individuals educated in the Jesuit tradition, to work in a variety of ways—teaching, coaching and supervising MUHS students—as they continue to discern their future vocations. In many ways, the ASC program has enhanced the paths of many men and women as they give back to an institution that created the groundwork for their own lives. The choices so many of these young men and women make reflect a cura personalis attitude, entering the fields of education, law, medicine and community service. At times, it seemed inconsistent with the standards of the school to place recent college grads, only four years older than some of our students, in this role. Luckily, these rookies are mentored by expert educators who guide them through the basics of classroom instruction, the root elements of class planning, professional behavior, student discipline and communication with parents and guardians. For the most part, ASC members have expressed sincere gratitude for the assistance they were given, acknowledging that they needed guidance and daily support. I always enjoyed seeing these young professionals emulate their former teachers, delivering lessons with the sarcastic humor of Terry Kelly and striding down the hallway with the authority of Jim Kearney. Sometimes, I had to remind them to be authentic
and simply be themselves, “This isn’t Senior Follies!” I wanted them to learn a lesson I learned when I first entered the teaching profession—teach who you are. From the outset, their youth provided and continues to provide an advantage to our school community. They still have energy left after chaperoning dances or retreats. They can laugh and share stories into the wee hours of the morning, providing their own unique sense of spirit and enthusiasm to their role. They’re less tired than the rest of us and don’t feel the need to recover the next week.
First ASC director and now retired teacher Victoria Temple Bonesho. Photo by Mike Arndt
I believe this is one of the reasons that led former president, Father George Winzenburg, SJ, to start the program in 1993. In the wake of fewer priests and scholastics (Jesuits in training) available, Father Winzenburg was introduced to a new alumni service program starting at Regis High School in Colorado inspired by the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Intrigued by the program, he searched for avenues to incorporate it into the MUHS experience. By chance, Rob Birdsell ’88 happened to visit his alma mater over Easter Break in 1993 and bumped into Father Winzenburg. The two shared memories, and expressed a mutual desire to fill the vacuum that they both witnessed with the changing times. George explained the possibilities of the fledgling program and asked Rob if he would be interested—“You’ll teach a couple of sections and live with the Jesuits, get your meals with the Jesuits and we’ll pay you a modest stipend.” Rob responded, “Do I get to use the old suburban, too?” A perk of the job! Rob moved into the Jesuit Residence on the fourth floor of the school building in August and the rest is history. The “Jes Res” became the ASC compound, hosting ASC members, and their occasional shenanigans, for more than 13 years. Oh, if those walls could talk! The pilot year with Rob was deemed successful. In 1994, assistant principal at the time, Kent Hickey sought to continue to develop the program and asked me to
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FEATURES
serve as ASC director, largely to oversee the classroom experience and act as “mama bear” to the volunteers. Hickey’s vision was not to replace educators, but rather to bring a youthful energy to the building. Playing guitar at Mass, opening the gym on Sunday evenings, chaperoning dances and attending football games were all in the job description.
“I wanted them to learn a lesson I learned when I first entered the teaching profession—teach who you are.” I said, “yes.” How could I not? I remember my first years of teaching— the endless hours of lesson planning, grading and generally feeling overwhelmed
by more work than hours in the day. My maternal instinct kicked in and I wanted to help guide these kids through an unforgettable lifetime experience. Plus, I was excited by the prospects of a new professional project as my own kids were getting older. My oldest Tony [Cerminaro ’95] would be headed off to college, my son Michael [Cerminaro ’98] was a freshman at Marquette High and my girls, Catie and Allie, were well beyond the demanding toddler years. Later, my friend and colleague Father Rob Kroll, SJ ’83 served as co-director and spiritual advisor to the program. Together, we formalized the Alumni Service Corps, identifying three foundational areas—academic, pastoral and communal—essential to the success of the program. Each summer, we planned to meet with the new ASC members. In the fall of 1994, Greg Groeschl ’89, Brian Krill ’90, David Sheridan ’89 and Jon Langenfeld ’89
joined the program and we met with them to set expectations and prepare them for the demands of the program. We then met as a group on a regular basis throughout the year. We would discuss best teaching practices and how things were going—successes, challenges and everything in between. That year, Brian assisted Paul Noack and I as moderators of Conclave. I’ll never forget Brian’s face when he helped chaperone Prom in 1995. We held the event at the Highlander in Brookfield and Brian was the first one in the pool during the post prom activities. Yes, the ASC guys always made us laugh. But honestly, I was also lucky to have my son experience Jon as an instructor in AP Micro/Macro Economics. He, along with Dick Basham and Carol Hardtke, certainly encouraged Tony’s interest in economics and math. By 1996, the program was off and running, with former grads responding
The 1994 ski team that went to State: (kneeling) Robin Nusslock and Eric Biboso. Standing: Christopher Nast, Dan Bachman, Coach Jack Schuler, Rich Sim, Mark Bergum, Ryan Redmond and ASC member/coach Rob Birdsell ’88.
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ASC member Brian Krill ’90.
to the reputation of the program, eager to provide their services to the school as well as discern their futures. The two Robs and I created a handbook to use as a guide, a tool that is still used today for new teacher training. Most of the crew lived on the fourth floor—an experience that helped to develop the community aspect that was so important to the life of the program. We always planned shared monthly meals together with the guys coming to my home each spring. Together, we would prepare a five-course Italian meal to celebrate the year. Joe Cavanaugh ’95 in particular, enjoyed that part of the ASC program! The graduating class of 1992 brought another batch of young men into the program. These guys were incredible—serious, dedicated to the mission of the school and clearly interested in finding the next step that life would take them. I treasure the experience I had with each of them, all remaining my friends to this day. Christopher Lese ’92, taught with me for many years in the social studies department. Having graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in history, I knew he was initially uncertain about his future career path but was anxious to give back to the school he loved. Christopher Meuler ’92, another “buddy” from the Meuler family, encouraged Lese to sign up.
All four of the crew focused on social studies, so we were a natural team, sharing our love of history and plans to bring the subject to life, especially for the freshmen. The two Chrises joined Dan Quesnell ’93 and Peter Gansler ’93 to form a team that I will long remember. Chris [Lese] developed important relationships with other faculty members, relationships that remain important to this day, including his friendship with Tim Prosser, who mentored him when Chris assumed the position of director of Senior Follies. When asked about his most significant memories of his experience, he recalls, “late-night lesson planning, calling Kearney “Jim” for the first time, dressing up as “the guy who talks to coaches” to run a JV basketball practice, playing Nintendo using a classroom overhead projector in the living area, and spiritual book club discussions led by Kent Hickey.”
Undoubtedly, the ASC experience gave him “the invaluable insight that I was not ready to be a teacher yet,” he says. “I realized I desired more life experiences and probably needed more maturity to be the teacher I wanted to be but it planted the seed that this was something I thought I could someday be good at.” Interestingly enough, the four volunteers in this group all used their experiences in ASC to pursue their future careers. Lese is an active and valued member of the MUHS social studies department; Quesnell currently serves as principal of Divine Savior Holy Angels High School; Meuler is a practicing attorney; and Gansler, with his soccer and coaching experience, is a sports industry consultant. Clearly, the ASC provided all with the perfect groundwork to do the work of discernment. Another memorable group that in my mind exemplified a sense of MUHS community was Bill Schmitt ’97,
Vicki Bonesho and then English teacher Rob Birdsell ’88 (white polo shirt) served as ASC mentors to ASC members (left to right) Peter Gansler ’93, Chris Lese ’92, Chris Meuler ’92 and (not pictured) Dan Quesnell ’93.
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ASC members Chris Ackels, Sean Koscielak ’08 and Joe Poirer ’08 created a special message on Takton Field for students and colleagues.
Brendan Kearney ’97 and Luke Meuler ’97 who served in 2001. All three are sons of now-retired faculty members and were immersed in MUHS since the time they could walk. They knew the high expectations of being an MUHS educator, along with secret passageways in the building and how to work the PA system. We could have handed them the keys and they would have taken care of business both in and outside of the classroom. When Bill applied to the program, there was never a doubt about his commitment to serve. As a graduate of Marquette University and a Burke scholar, Bill had already given his time and talent to a variety of organizations both in Milwaukee and beyond. When reflecting on his experience, Bill contends he was not as prepared for the demands of teaching as he thought, recalling, “My first day in the classroom I was teaching U.S. History and was pretty confident that I had prepared enough material for two to three days’ worth of classes. I soon discovered about halfway through the period that I had burned through absolutely all of it. It still makes me laugh thinking about the slow-moving panic that set in as I glanced at the clock.” Bill quickly overcame his first-day hiccup and went on to exemplify the ideal ASC member. As a longtime
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educator, I wholeheartedly concur with Bill’s takeaway from his ASC experience. He says, “That year left me with the impression that most of us would benefit from the experience of teaching, if only for a year, not only for the practical benefits it would have on whatever career path one chooses, but also because it would hopefully give folks a little more appreciation, empathy and humility when interacting with teachers.” In 2005, then-principal Father John Belmonte, SJ, suggested that the program be expanded to include alumni from other Jesuit schools, including women. I’m not going to lie, I was hesitant about this idea having witnessed firsthand the dorm-like conditions of the Jes Res following a basketball or football victory. It wasn’t uncommon to find beer cans and three-day-old pizza boxes on the floor of the ASC living quarters. Even Bill jokes with a wink and wry smile about the ASC living conditions, “I lived with a unique cast of characters during my college years in sometimesquestionable housing conditions, but I was nonetheless ill-prepared for the depths of hygienic depravity that I would be subjected to with Brendan and Luke.” The banter continues, a reflection of the closeness, sense of friendship and community that developed as a result of their ASC experience.
Eventually, the first woman, Theresa Kaczmarek (Janusz) was accepted into the program in 2008. Admittedly, I was worried, but we quickly bonded over our love of shoes, high heels and her commitment to the program. Theresa proved herself as a dedicated and effective ASC member and paved the way for Megan (Sajdak) Holton, Colleen Lentz, Rebecca (Moylan) Hoffman, Jessica Herrick and Emma Christanell to follow in her path. These ladies proved there is a place for women ASC educators at MUHS. That same year, I helped Mike Feely ’89 transition into the ASC director role serving as a behind-the-scenes mentor. I had worked years earlier with Feely in Academic Support, helping students who struggled with their freshman courses.
“These ladies proved there is a place for women ASC educators at MUHS.” Mike had a unique style and an unmatched enthusiasm when it came to working with students, especially those who needed a bit more TLC. Mike himself was an ASC volunteer and we worked together during my early years at MUHS. He asked me then if he could decorate the Academic Support room. Who was I to say “No” to Feelymeister? The room was small and very confined, more like an oversized storage closet. But Mike made it come alive with Christmas lights and Marquette High memorabilia. He would make crowns for the kids who worked hard and achieved academic success. I honestly looked forward to those times with Mike. When Mike took over in 2008, I was confident that he would bring that same kind of spirit to the program. His energy was contagious.
FEATURES
In Feely’s own unique way, he helped make the ASC program the axis point for fun activities that help strengthen relationships among MUHS colleagues. By 2008, the old Jes Res was razed to make way for much-needed classrooms, offices and meeting spaces. The new ASC house, located on Michigan Street, directly across from the school’s main entrance, became the spot for chaperones to gather after dances with the ASC guys planning the food and entertainment. Feely’s goal was always to make everyone feel welcome and part of the MUHS community. ASC member Christopher “Chritty” Schuele ’08 attests to Feely’s spirit. “He always found ways to make us feel like we were contributing to the ethos of Marquette High, to something much bigger than ourselves.” Chritty says his positive experiences with his ASC teachers, which included “learning from Andy Nolan ’01, wrestling with
ASC director Mike Feely ’89 in 2009.
Brendan Holahan ’02 and sharing stories with Elliot Wolters ’02” led him to postpone law school and give back to Marquette High.
“In so many ways, they all were and remain ‘my guys.’ ” Just as Rob Kroll, SJ and I had emphasized the faith-filled community element of the program, so did Feely. He continued the tradition of ASC members being involved with liturgies and retreats, including adult service on Kairos and supervising the graveyard shift on Freshman Retreat. For many of the ASC members, I believe coming back to MUHS helped restore their faith life, which can fade during the college years.
Bill Schmidt ’97, Chritty Scheule ’08 and Chris Lese ’92 in January 2023. Photo by Mark Frohna
Mentoring these young professionals was serious and joyful all at once. I tried to stress the importance of knowledge of the subject and preparation for each class. I’ve always believed that our students deserve that each and every day. In turn, over the years, ASC members taught me the importance of teacher training and kept me keenly aware of curriculum. They kept me young at heart and provided insight on how kids would respond to different material. In short, they made me a more well-rounded educator. Of course, there were times when I felt like I was reraising my boys. Admittedly, there was the occasional turkey or two over the years. I always dreaded when a colleague greeted me with, “Do you know what the guys did last night?” Being the mother of boys helped prepare me for this role. It was a balance of knowing when I needed to chew them out or when I just needed to laugh with them. When there was an issue, I had to ask myself, “Do they need help, an ear to listen or a simple hug?” It was usually one of the three. I continue to carry the memories of the program to this day. In so many ways, they all were and remain “my guys.”
www.MUHS.edu 33
FEATURES
ASC ALUMNI WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Caption to come.
34 MUHS Magazine
FEATURES
Approximately 30 ASC alumni returned to MUHS in January 2023. In alphabetical order: Joe Cavanaugh ’95
Chris Meuler ’92
Paul Celentaini ’08
Luke Meuler ’97
Emma Christanell
Andrew Mountin ’07
Nicholas DiUlio ’98
TJ Novotny ’13
Kevin Eberle ’18
Joe Poirier ’08
Paul Glembocki ’12
Dan Quesnell ’93
Charlie Greif ’15
Michael Rolfe ’15
Rebecca (Moylan) Hoffman
Megan Sajdak Holtan
Brendan Holahan ’02
Chritty Schuele ’08
Jack Horter ’15
Bill Schmidt ’97
Matt Jaques ’02
David Siewert ’91
Teresa (Kaczmarek) Janusz
Daniel Steinle ’05
Casey Kowalewski ’98
Jim Strom ’18
Colleen Lentz
Tim Tanty ’95
Chris Lese ’92
Elliot Wolters ’02
Anthony Mancinelli ’18
Michael Young ’13
www.MUHS.edu 35
FEATURES
ASC Where are they now?
David Siewert ’91 Director of Philanthropy, Heifer Project International
1993–94
Rob Birdsell ’88 Co-Founder & Executive Vice President, Amerigo Education
1997–98
Peter Gansler ’93 Principal Consultant/ Sports Industry Consultant, Ganz LLC
1994–95
Gregory Groeschl ’89 Physics Teacher, MPS Rufus King International High School
Chris Lese ’92 Social Studies Teacher, Marquette University High School
Brian Krill ’90 Executive Director and Head of School, Sugar Bowl Ski Team and Academy
Christopher Meuler ’92 Attorney, Camber Legal, LLC Daniel Quesnell ’93 Principal, Divine Savior Holy Angels
Jon Langenfeld ’89 Head of Equities, Baird David Sheridan ’89 Associate Professor, Otterbein University, Department of Biology 1995–96
Daniel Aussem ’90 Business Consulting Specialist, Northwestern Mutual
Jon Langenfeld ’89
Kevin Casper ’91 Senior Account Representative, Salesforce
1998–99
Michael Bolger ’94 Assistant Vice President, CNA Insurance
Mike Feely ’89 * English Teacher, Marquette University High School Robert Glowacki ’89 Regional Director, Homes for Independent Living 1996–97
Brian Duffy ’92 Teacher/Case Manager, Governor Morehead School for the Blind
Chris Meuler ’92 Photo by Front Room Studios
Jeffrey Martin ’91 English & History Teacher/ Human Rights Program Director, Muse Global School/ Muse Virtual School
Rob Birdsell ’88 Photo by Sean Henderson
* Deceased
36 MUHS Magazine
Paddy O’Brien ’92 Worldwide President, BD Peripheral Intervention, Becton Dickinson
Brian Duffy ’92 with his students at the North Carolina State Fair.
FEATURES
Sean O’Brien ’98 Senior Territory Manager, BD Matthew Vogel ’98 Partner, Quarles & Brady 2003–04
Chris Bach ’99 Architect, Workshop/APD Bill Keeler ’99 Shareholder, Crivello Carlson, S.C. Peter Gansler ’93
Casey Kowalewski ’98 coaching the varsity basketball team. Photo by VIP Photography
Zak Wernecke ‘99 Math Teacher, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Joe Cavanaugh ’95 English Teacher/Information Technology Coordinator, Marquette University High School
2001–02
Matthew Cusick ’94 Assistant Professor/Director, University of Michigan
Luke Meuler ’97 Social Studies Teacher, Marquette University High School
Joshua Kraemer ’94 Director of Camp Thunderhead, Nativity Jesuit Academy
William Schmitt ’97 Executive Director, United Methodist Children’s Services
1999–00
2002–03
Michael Stauder ’95 Associate Professor, Department of Breast Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Nicholas DiUlio ’98 Attorney, Block Legal Services
Peter Bausch ’95* Patent & Technology General Counsel, SC Johnson
Brendan Kearney ’97 Chief Academic Officer, Hmong American Peace Academy
2004–05
Timothy Cavanaugh ’00 Chancellor, Diocese of Madison John Celentani ’00 Managing Director, Dearborn Partners JP Josetti ’00 Underwriter, AF Group Benjamin Krahn ’00 English Teacher, Middlebury High School
Casey Kowalewski ’98 Dean of Students, Marquette University High School
2000–01
Todd Bonkiewicz Aviation Adjunct Professor, University of Nebraska Omaha Ryan Quinn ’96 Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State Timothy Tanty ’95 Dentist, FowardDental
Chris Bach ’99
Zac Werneck ’99 with his sixth-grade students at recess on “Well Dressed” Wednesday, the day of the week he and his students dress their best.
* Deceased
www.MUHS.edu 37
FEATURES
Teresa (Kaczmarek) Janusz Director of Development, College of Business Administration, Marquette University Peter Nurre ’03 English Teacher, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School 2009–10
James Boston ’05 Senior Data Engineer, MGIC Megan Sajdak Holtan Director of Marketing, Stan’s Bootery Inc.
Dan Quesnell ’93, Andrew Berens ’04 and Peter Nurre ’03 Photo by Madeline Zukowski
Joseph Simmons, SJ ’00 Priest/Doctoral Student in Theology and Literature, Society of Jesus/ University of Oxford 2005–06
Brendan Holahan ’02 Director of Wholesale Sales, MobCraft Beer Matt Jaques ’02 Economics Teacher, Marquette University High School
Andrew Bonk ’00 Vice President of Product Management, Modern Hire
2007–08
Colin McKean ’01 General Manager, Run Away Shoes
Michael Flaherty ’03 Business Manager–Ambulatory, Children’s Wisconsin
Andrew Nolan ’01 Attorney, U.S. Court of Appeals David Ratajczak ’95 Special Agent, FBI Mark Wisniewski ’01 English Teacher/Yearbook Advisor, Kenosha Union School District/ Tremper High School
Colleen Lentz Technical Theatre Director and Teacher, Nicolet High School Christopher Sover ’05 Assistant Principal, Carmen Schools of Science Daniel Steinle ’05 Photographer, Photography Studio 2010–11
Rebecca (Moylan) Hoffman Managing Supervisor, Fleishman Hillard
Trevor Leverson ’02 Attorney, Leverson Law Offices, Halling & Cayo S.C., P. Elliot Wolters ’02 Stay-at-home Dad 2008–09
Andrew Berens ’04 English Teacher, Divine Savior Holy Angels High School
2006–07
Jozef Michalski ’02 Controller, Pro Engineering and Manufacturing, Inc.
38 MUHS Magazine
Lawrence Gillick ’02 Library Media Specialist, Baraboo School District
Matt Jaques ’02 Photo by VIP Photography
FEATURES
Michael Caballero ’06 Senior Data Scientist, University of Miami Health System
Christopher Schuele ’08 Associate Attorney, Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren, S.C.
Matthew Waldoch ’10 Customer Supply Chain Support, Fastenal
Patrick Cassidy ’06 Senior Corporate Counsel, Jack Link’s
2013–14
2015–16
Chris Ackels Special Assistant to the Chairman, Hunt Sports Group and Football Public Address Announcer, University of Notre Dame
Alexander Beck ’11 Data Science Senior Consultant, Guidehouse
Timothy Flaherty ’05 Dean of Students, University Lake School Jessica Herrick English Teacher, St. Thomas More High School
Sean Koscielak ’08 Detective, Milwaukee Police Department
Kevin Drees ’11 Account Executive, FIS John Kopriva ’11 Resident, Orthopedic Surgery, Emory University
Joseph Poirier ’08 (second year) 2011–12
2016–17
Gregory Herbers ’07 Contract Attorney, Securities and Exchange Commission
2014–15
Maxwell Loos ’07 Law Clerk to Chief Judge Patrick Schiltz, United States District Court for the District of Minnesota
Michael Herbers ’10 Social Studies Teacher/ Department Chair, Rooted School
Michael Franczak ’10 Emergency Medicine Physician
Michael Ordman ’07 Project Manager, Beam Suntory
Jack McNally ’10 Attorney, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown LLP
Nolan Wanecke ’07 Research Consultant for Political Campaigns, Self-employed
Jake Murray ’10 Tax Preparer, Murray’s Tax Preparer
Alan Chavoya ’12 Philosophy Graduate Student, Northwestern University Leo Mironovich Service and Volunteer Coordinator, Boise State University Gregg Neuburg ’12 Senior Peer Mentor, Harrington Development Services 2017–18
Thomas Enright ’13 Internal Medicine Resident, University of Washington Paul Glembocki ’12 English Teacher, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School Milwaukee
Emily Zaeske Teacher, City of Vienna (Austria) 2012–13
Paul Celentani ’08 Assistant Vice President, Credit Officer, m2 Equipment Finance
TJ Novotny ’13 Vice President, Tri-Formed Tops Bobby Roenitz ’13 MBA Candidate, University of Michigan Stephen Ross School of Business
Andrew Mountin ’07 Assistant Director of Campus Ministry for Liturgical Music, Marquette University Joseph Poirier ’08 Proposal Coordinator and Writer, Southwest Foodservice Excellence
Tom Enright ’13
Matthew Scott ’13 Graduate Student Nonprofit Administration, University of Notre Dame
www.MUHS.edu 39
FEATURES
Daniel Hawley ’15 J.D. Candidate, Columbia Law School
2021–22
Jack Horter ’15 Sales Arborist, Monster Tree Service
Riley DeMeulenaere ’16 Lab Operations Associate, Evozyne
2020–21
Jack Hoover Sports Editor, The Gateway
Guy Chinang ’16 Law Student, Marquette University Law School Ian Glynn ’16 Student Pilot, U.S. Air Force
Guy Chinang ’16 (second year)
Gabe Stark ’17 Graduate Student Worker, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 2022–23
Michael Kearney ’16 Senior Research Associate, Forrester Research Michael Rolfe ’15 Medical Student, UW School of Medicine and Public Health
Emma Christanell Kevin Eberle ’18 Anthony Mancinelli ’18 James Strom ’18
Wanted ASC Member for 2023–24 We are still looking for one more ASC member for the 2023–24 school year and we are now accepting applications for the 2024–25 school year.
Jack Horter ’15
2018–19
Questions? Contact assistant principal Fran Maloney at maloney@muhs.edu.
Michael Young ’13 Math Teacher, Marquette University High School
Interested? Apply today!
2019–20
Matthew Gottsacker ’15 Computer Science Doctoral Student/ Graduate Research Assistant, University of Central Florida Charles Greif ’15 Clinical Sales Representative, Intuitive Surgical
40 MUHS Magazine
Ian Glynn ’16
FEATURES
Reflections from ASC Alumni My ASC experience allowed me to grow professionally and spiritually. I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to work alongside the teachers and staff who helped develop me into a man for others. You get to see a whole different side of what goes into making Marquette High the amazing institution that it is. Jack Horter ’15
I loved my ASC experience. It was my way of giving back. I was honored to work with faculty who taught me for four years. Their commitment, faith and dedication to each student was clear. I helped finish a project to build a new playground at St. Rose’s grade school with John St. Peter. At one point, John was driving a tractor to clear the site. That is dedication! Bob Glowacki ’89
It was an amazing experience returning to MUHS to teach and coach. Re-connecting with the community and staff gave me a greater sense of purpose and challenged me to grow personally and spiritually.
I loved my year of ASC. I loved having the opportunity to teach my major, to coach, and go on retreats and service projects. ASC was my entry into education and I’ve been proudly teaching across the city ever since.
One of the best years of my life!
Chris Sover ’05
Dan Steinle ’05
Zak Wernecke ’99
My year as a member of the ASC provided me the opportunity to spend a year discerning what path to take post-college graduation. It also allowed me to serve MUHS, and give back to the community that provided so much to me. Casey Kowalewski ’98
As students, my friends and I always looked up to the ASC teachers. As young college grads just a few years ahead of us, they set an awesome example for students both professionally and personally. They understand the Marquette High culture, academic and athletic challenges, and were able to provide guidance through this perspective. Returning to MUHS as an ASC provided an opportunity to both reflect on my time as a student while giving back to the community that gave a lot to me.
Professionally, I was able to work with people I very much admired (especially my dad) while developing skills that I have used throughout my career. On a personal level, it is one of my favorite years and I remain close friends with the ASC that I taught with— Chris Lese, Peter Gansler and Dan Quesnell.
Ian Glynn ’16
Chris Meuler ’92
HISTORICAL FEATURE
The Puzzle of the Pere Marquette Painting Sy Kreilein, PhD
Each semester, students in Ann Downey and Erica Zunac’s Virtue and Vice in Literature class visit the Marquette High boardroom to view the painting there, “Father Marquette on the Mississippi.” The painting’s name is just one of many mysteries surrounding the work of art. In the scene depicted in the painting, Jacques Marquette and his fellow explorer Louis Joliet, were still days away from being on the Mississippi River. The painting shows Marquette at the Fox River in 1673, being directed by Native Americans to the Wisconsin River— which will eventually lead Marquette and Joliet to the Mississippi River. From there, things only get murkier. The MUHS painting of this very famous scene is a copy, by an unknown artist, and is of unknown provenance. To find some clues about this copy, let’s start with the better-documented original painting— once accused of being a fake itself. In 1869 Wilhelm Lamprecht, a German-born painter, formed an artistic group in Cincinnati called the Christian Art Society. To raise money for indigent artists, Lamprecht painted “Father Marquette on the Mississippi,” which was then auctioned for $2,000 ($45,000 in today’s currency). Here’s where diverging stories begin to appear. One version says that about a decade later, Rev. Thomas O’Neil, SJ, Rector of St. Ignatius College in Chicago from 1880 to 1884, wrote to Rev. Stanislaus P. Lalumiere, SJ, co-founder of Marquette College, that Rev. Francis Weninger, SJ, a nationally-known preacher, had acquired the Lamprecht painting from the Black parishioners of Old St. Mary’s Church at
9th and Wabash in Chicago. According to Father Weninger, the painting hung in the basement of the church, which had had an influx of parishioners by way of its work among Chicago’s poor through its St. Augustine Society. Father O’Neil offered the painting to Lalumiere’s new Marquette College for “$150 to $200” ($4,000 to $5,300 today). Unable to afford the painting at that time, Lalumiere passed on the offer. But according to a letter in the MU archives, dated March 30, 1938, the painting—by then more accurately titled “Father Marquette and the Indians”—was gifted to Father Lalumiere by Matilda Abbey during the 1882–83 school year. Another version of the story says that whoever bought the painting at auction in Cincinnati either gave or sold it directly to Lalumiere. Somewhere in that timeline, a collector allegedly told MU their painting was a fake and he had an original Lamprecht depiction of Father Marquette—and was willing to sell it to them for $800. Marquette College held onto the painting, and despite the shaky provenance, in 1898, the U.S. government took the painting on loan to use as a model for one of the nine 1-cent stamps issued to commemorate the TransMississippi Exposition in Omaha. In 1954 the question about its authenticity was laid to rest when Lamprecht’s signature was revealed during restoration. So, what about the copy that hangs today in the MUHS boardroom? According to the 1938 letter mentioned previously, a Mrs. Matilda Abbey “retouched” the original painting before donating it to Marquette College during
the 1882–83 academic year and “took a copy which she keep [sic] in her parlor” in the Plankinton House Hotel. Matilda was the wife of D.C. Abbey, owner of the fourth-largest meat packing company in Milwaukee. This was her second marriage; she had a son, Harvey Jr. from her first marriage to Harvey Birchard, a successful Milwaukee realtor. Outliving two prosperous husbands, she was a very wealthy woman; in 1892, she also inherited her son’s $100,000 estate upon his death. It’s not known why Matilda Abbey had a copy of the painting or whether she had a connection to MUHS. And who was the artist? A 1954 Milwaukee Journal article about the restoration of the original painting noted that Milwaukeeborn German artist Carl von Marr may have studied here under Lamprecht; could he have painted a copy of his teacher’s masterpiece? We simply don’t know and there is no known signature. The woman who is widely considered responsible for the paintings—original and copy—in the MU and MUHS collections, Matilda Abbey died in Waukegan, Ill., in 1898; the notice of her death appeared on the front page of the Milwaukee Journal. Two years after her death, the circuit court was asked to set aside a deed of city property executed by her before her death because she was deemed to be “very old and susceptible to flattery” and mentally incompetent, according to a 1900 article in the Milwaukee Journal. Matilda is buried at Forest Home Cemetery in section 27 with her first husband and son; her second husband is also in the same section.
www.MUHS.edu 43
ALUMNI UPDATE
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Kyle Powers ’13 Raising Service Dogs for Disabled Veterans Julie Felser
Kyle Powers ’13 has always loved dogs even though he never had any pets growing up. So when he was looking for volunteer opportunities while attending UW–Madison, the Dane County Humane Society seemed like a perfect fit. “I enjoyed playing with and walking the dogs every Friday and it was a great way to de-stress from the week,” Power says. Around the same time, Powers was introduced to Custom Canines Service Dog Academy, a nonprofit that relies on volunteers to raise and train service dogs for disabled individuals, especially veterans suffering from PTSD. His initial involvement was simple—raise money for CCSDA through his fraternity’s sponsored events. But, eventually, Nicole
Kyle Powers ’13 with Cooper, service puppy in training
44 MUHS Magazine
Meadowcroft, executive director of CCSDA, encouraged Powers to become a puppy raiser. He received Winnie, an eight-weekold golden retriever, on the day of his final exam of college in December 2018. “I didn’t study so well for that final,” he says with a smile. He earned his engineering degree and is now a project manager for Basset Mechanical, a commercial HVAC contractor. Powers, along with other volunteer puppy raisers, commit to raising and training service canines, provided by CCSDA. “It’s pretty much your dog. You’re paying for all the vet bills and other expenses for the time you have them.” Then, when the dog is 18 to 24
months old and after an extensive match process, the dog is surrendered to his or her new owner. Beyond the typical obedience commands, Powers provides specialized training specific for the individual the dog will be matched with. He explains the role play involved in preparing a pup for her new environment: “It can seem pretty weird. I told my roommates at the time, ‘Guys, I’m okay but I have to do this training for the dog.’ Then I went to my room and pretended to sob for 20 minutes.” People often say “I could never do that” when Powers talks about raising and surrendering his service dogs. It can be hard, he says, but he has his reasons. “I have a lot of immediate and extended family members who have served in the military. I thought this would be a way to support those serving our country.” Additionally, he has experienced firsthand the life-saving benefits of these dogs. “Before I started someone told me that this was the easiest way to save somebody’s life and I didn’t really believe them,” Powers says. But after he placed Winnie, he heard back from her new owner. “He told me that before he had Winnie he wasn’t able to leave his house, that this dog saved his life. So when you hear something like that, it’s pretty easy to get back into it and train another dog.” Powers’ second dog, Cooper, is just about ready for placement. He admits prior to becoming a puppy raiser he had major hesitations about the emotional difficulty of surrendering the dog. “It hurts for a month or two, but then after that it just makes you smile.”
ALUMNI UPDATE
Class Notes
Robert Jacques ’59 is president
Defense. He and his spouse,
Tim Aiken organized a golf
of the board of Tri-City Regional
Bonnie, live in Brevard, N.C.
tournament for the Class of 1967.
Sanitary District in Claypool,
and have three grown sons and
Ariz., where he and his spouse,
three young grandsons.
Jeanne, live.
Stephen Shearier ’70 is author of the book, The Prague Circle:
Steve Sazama ’63 celebrated
Franz Kafka, Egon Erwin Kisch,
Michael Molenda ’59 co-authored
45 years as a local entrepreneur,
Max Brod, Franz Werfel, Paul
the book, The Elements of
owning six restaurant and
Kornfeld, and their Legacies. He
Instruction: A Framework for the
catering entities.
earned his doctorate in German
Age of Emerging Technologies.
Language and Literature from
He is associate professor
Joseph McBride ’65 is a film
Emeritus in the Department of
historian who has authored more
Instructional Systems Technology
than 20 books. His two latest
Michael Connelly ’71 is CEO
in the School of Education at
books include Billy Wilder:
Emeritus of Mercy Health (now
Indiana University Bloomington.
Dancing on the Edge, a biography
Bon Secours Mercy Health),
of the Academy Award-winning
after serving as CEO of Mercy
John Stich ’59 is the former
director, and The Whole Durn
Health from 1994 to 2017. He
Honorary Consul-General of
Human Comedy: Life According
is also author of The Journey’s
Japan in Dallas and was awarded
to the Coen Brothers, an exam-
End: An Investigation of Death
the Order of the Rising Sun,
ination about the filmmaking
and Dying in Modern America,
Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, in
brothers’ approach to storytelling
which seeks to help people manage
recognition of his contributions
and creative process.
their healthcare, their expectations,
toward promoting exchange
UW–Madison.
and their decisions in the final
and friendship between Japan
Steve Anderson ’67 and his
phase of life. It also aims to help
and the United States.
classmates Tim O’Brien, Dave
the reader understand when
End, Jamie Kowalski, Jim
facing a terminal diagnosis, it is
Rob Schaffer ’62 retired
Dries, Jim Daly, Tim Cotter, Jim
more important to understand
from the U.S. Department of
Wilkinson, Tom Hayes and
one’s life rather than to extend it.
above top: John Stich ’59 above: Thomas Caffrey ’58 (left) with Donna and Dennis Doyle ’58 left: Class of 1967 alumni at a reunion golf outing (left to right): Steve Anderson, Tim O’Brien, Dave End, Jamie Kowalski, Jim Dries, Jim Daly, Tim Cotter and Jim Wilkinson.
www.MUHS.edu 45
ALUMNI UPDATE
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Kevin Eberle ’18 named new alumni director Current Alumni Service Corps member, Kevin Eberle ’18, will assume the position of Director of Alumni and Digital Engagement in June. In this role, Eberle will be responsible for building and sustaining relationships with MUHS constituents to help advance the school’s mission. More specifically, he will manage class reunions, alumni events and the school’s annual giving campaigns. “I’m excited to serve my alma mater in this role,” Eberle says. “My time as a student at Marquette High was such a meaningful and formative experience for me. I look forward to collaborating with alumni and parents to strengthen the wonderful MUHS community and continue the tradition of Catholic Jesuit education for future Hilltoppers.” Eberle earned his bachelor’s degree from Belmont University in Nashville. He completed internships with the Ignatian Solidarity Network as a content writing intern and at Sky 3 Entertainment as an artist management intern. He also served as president of University Catholic, a nonprofit serving college students of Nashville by offering faith formation and fellowship opportunities. During the 2022–23 school year, Eberle has taught three music courses and provided student supervision as needed. Have an idea to engage alumni? Please contact Kevin Eberle ’18 at eberle@muhs.edu or 414-933-7220.
Photo by Mark Frohna
46 MUHS Magazine
ALUMNI UPDATE
Tom Barrett ’72 is the U.S.
and design firm. He was selected
CEOs and C-level executives
Ken Anselment ’88 is the
Ambassador to Luxembourg.
by the American Society of
in the state. Spano is the
vice president for enrollment
Previously, Barrett served as
Civil Engineers (ASCE) as the
president and CEO of Annex
management at RHB, an
the City of Milwaukee mayor
2021 Edmund Friedman
Wealth Management.
enrollment, marketing, CRM
for 17.5 years.
Professional Recognition
consulting firm for colleges
Exxon Mobil after 32 years of
and universities. He is also host
Thomas Fessler ’76 retired
service to the company. He and
of “ALP: The Admissions
as chief legal counsel at
his spouse, Keri, live in Katy, Texas.
Leadership Podcast.”
Ed Geiser ’72 is retired and living in Burlington, Wis. Jim Wilkinson ’73 was inducted
and organizational solutions David Henry ’84 retired from
Award recipient.
VSP Global in December 2021. Joe Horning ’87 has been
Tim DeRoche ’88 and his
Coaches Association Hall of Fame
Dr. Steven O’Marro ’77 is an
named chairman of the board
spouse, Simone, announced
in February 2022. A former
infectious disease specialist in
of the Wisconsin Realtors
the birth of their third son,
MUHS coach and faculty
Springfield, Ill., and was awarded
Association. He is president
Soloman Charles, on Feb. 17,
member, he is the head varsity
the Springfield Clinics A.
of Shorewest Realtors.
2023. He is author of the
baseball coach at Germantown
Raymond Eveloff Award for
High School.
Clinical Excellence by his
Jay McKenna ’87 is the president
peers for his leadership during
and CEO of North Shore Bank.
into the Wisconsin Baseball
Mike Lechtenberg ’74 and
book, “Tales of Whimsy, Verses of Woe.”
the pandemic.
his son, Bob Lechtenberg ’99, are snow sculptors and were
Bob Carver ’78 is a principal
featured leading Team Green
account manager at Honeywell
on the holiday special Best in
Intelligrated.
Snow on Disney+. Mike started competitively snow sculpting
Bob Wissing ’79 retired as
in 2017 and since then, has
vice president of finance,
captured three state titles, two
North and Central America at
national titles, and a third-
Metso Outotec.
place international finish at Breckenridge, Colo. He is
Jim O’Rourke ’80 was named
president of the Society of St.
MUHS 2022 Alumnus of the
Vincent de Paul at St. John
Year. He, along with his spouse,
Vianney Parish in Brookfield, Wis.
Maike, hosted a gathering in Naples for their MUHS friends.
John Kissinger ’75 is President and CEO of GRAEF,
Dave Spano ’83 was named
an employee-owned, multi-
to the 2023 Wisconsin Titan
discipline, engineering, planning
100 list, recognizing the top 100
above: MUHS alumni and friends in Florida (left to right): Mary Anne Revolinski, Tracy Josetti, Susan and Tom Salentine ’57, Patty Reiman, John ’76 and Chris McDermott, Jim ’80 and Maike O’Rourke, Marilyn and Dave Doerr, and Fr. Mike Marco, SJ. far left: Jeff Mrochinski ’88 (far right) with former and current MUHS tennis coaches (left to right), Fr. Rob Kroll, SJ ’83, David Frank ’99 and Mike Donovan. left: Baby Solomon with big brother Orik DeRoche
www.MUHS.edu 47
ALUMNI UPDATE
WRITE THE CAPTION! Help us write the caption for this photo of Mr. Dan Holahan and Mr. Terry Kelly. We will publish our favorites in the next issue.
Jeff Mrochinski ’88 is the
Authority, a federal government
athletic director and a faculty
agency tasked with the
member at St. Joan Antida
development of diagnostics,
High School. He coached the
therapeutics and vaccines for
Catholic Memorial High School
pandemic and infectious
boys tennis team to a state
diseases. He and his family live in
championship in June 2021 and
Clarksville, Md.
celebrated with current and retired MUHS coaches David
Eric Schmidt ’93 is president of
Frank ’99, Mike Donavan and
CG Schmidt.
Fr. Rob Kroll, SJ ’83. Gus von Roenn ’93 is founder Mark Radzin ’88 earned a
and executive director of
master’s degree in catechetics
Omaha Permaculture, which
and evangelization from
fosters community in urban
Franciscan University of
environments through land
Steubenville. He is a seventh-
stewardship.
and eighth-grade religion instructor and upper school
John “Wally” Waliszewski ’93
religion coordinator/campus
is an English teacher at MUHS.
minister at Greenwich Catholic
He earned a bachelor’s degree
School in Greenwich, Conn.
in English education and a Juris Doctor degree from
Kevin Honkamp ’90 is president
Marquette University.
of Hydrite, a manufacturer and supplier of chemicals and
Dillon Ambrose ’94 is an
related services, which was
attorney at Amundsen Davis
recognized as a Wisconsin
LLC and a U.S. Navy veteran
Manufacturer of the Year Grand
and reservist. He was recently
Award winner in the Mega
promoted to captain in the Navy
category for outstanding
Reserve. He and his spouse,
achievements in manufacturing.
Molly, developed BOX-Ae-RATOR, a wine aerator specially de-
Eugene Millar ’90 is a senior
signed for use with boxed
program and portfolio manager
wines, one glass at a time.
at the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development
Submit your caption using this QR code. left: Tim Wright ’98 (left) and Chip Wright ’97 opposite, left: Mike Lechtenberg ’74 opposite, right: MUHS soccer alums, all who have been on a state winning team in high school, played together in a tournament. Front row (left to right): Charlie Holton ’21, Chaney Christiansen ’16, Nick Leas ’17, coach Craig Posselt, Steve Lawrence ’99 and coach Mark Turner. Back row: Miguel Gonzalez ’22, Dan Lenz ‘15, Jack Bradford ’16, Carter Abbott ’19 and Osvaldo Sanchez Arellano ’19.
48 MUHS Magazine
ALUMNI UPDATE
Rev. Shane Johnson ’94
Tim Laur ’97 and his spouse,
consultant, Bob and his spouse,
is a priest and serves as
Tara, announced the birth of
Emily, live in Hartland, Wis., with
administrator at St. Anthony
their daughter, Eleanor Annette.
their three daughters.
of Padua, located in the
Laur and his family reside in
Bronx, New York.
St. Louis, where he is an advisor
Stephen White ’99 spoke
with Edward Jones.
to the MUHS student body for
Jeff Dahlberg ’95 teaches
Catholic Schools Week in
German and social studies at
Chip Wright ’97 and his brother,
January. He is a fellow in the
Cudahy High School.
Tim Wright ’98, launched their
Catholic Studies Program
patented putting grip and
at the Ethics and Public Policy
Patrick McNally ’95 was
shaft at the PGA Show 2023 in
Center in Washington, D.C.,
elected president of Borgelt,
Orlando, Fla. Sports Illustrated’s
and author of the book, Red,
Powell, Peterson & Frauen,
The Ranking placed the Caliber
White, Blue, and Catholic.
S.C., a Milwaukee-based law
Golf’s putter shaft at No. 5 in
firm specializing in civil
its Top 10, out of a field of more
Matt Lautz ’00 was named
litigation defense. He has been
than 1,000 new products
to the 2023 Wisconsin Titan
with the firm since 2002.
presented by 800 vendors.
100 list, recognizing the top
Israel Thompson ’95 is
Peter Kowalski ’98 was inducted
in the state. Matt is CEO and
a colonel in the U.S. Army. He
as a player into the Kansas
founder of Neostella, a software
was honored in October by
City Blues Rugby Hall of Fame.
implementation and
the Green Bay Packers through
Pete and his spouse, Carmen,
consulting firm.
its program Operation Fan Mail,
have five children and live in
recognizing military families
Westwood Hills, Kan.
100 CEOs and C-level executives
and veterans at each Packers
Mike Maher ’00 and his band Snarky Puppy won its
home game. Thompson
Bob Lechtenberg ’99 and his
fifth Grammy Award for Best
has served in the U.S. Army for
father, Mike Lechtenberg ’74,
Contemporary Instrumental
23 years, which has included
are snow sculptors and were
Album, Empire Central. While
three tours in Afghanistan, two
featured leading Team Green
on tour and performing in
tours in Korea and one to Iraq
on the holiday special Best in
Milwaukee, Maher made time
during which he commanded
Snow on Disney+. Bob started
to meet with MUHS students.
a company in combat. Most
competitively snow sculpting
recently, he was deployed to
in 2017 and, since then, has
Marcus Mescher ’00 is an associate
Germany to support current
captured three state titles, two
professor at Xavier University.
operations in Ukraine.
national titles, and a third-
He is author of the book, The
place international finish at
Study Guide to the Encyclical
Breckenridge, Colo. An IT
Letter of Pope Francis.
above, top to bottom: Tim Prosser, Stephen White ’99, Victoria Temple Bonesho and Fr. Tom Doyle, SJ Seth Procknow Mike Maher ’00
www.MUHS.edu 49
ALUMNI UPDATE
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! New job? New baby? New book? What is your good news—we want to know. Let us know about your new bundle of joy and we will send you a Hilltoppers onesie.
Josh Morales ’00 was honored
Alex Hausladen ’02 is an
as Choice Hotels’ Extended Stay
assistant coach for the men’s
General Manager of the Year
basketball team at the
while attending the 67th Annual
University of Louisiana–Monroe.
Choice Hotels Convention in Las Vegas. He has managed multiple
Samuel Johnson ’02 and his
hotels over the last 18 years and
spouse, Mindy, announced the
currently manages the Sleep Inn
birth of their first son, Remy
& Suites and MainStay Suites in
Michael Johnson, on July 14, 2021.
Madison, Wis. Scott Winter ’02 is associate Jesse Procknow ’00 and his
professor, associate dean,
spouse, Sara, announced the
and program coordinator for
birth of their son, Seth, born
M.S. in Unmanned Systems
on Nov. 26, 2021. Procknow is a
at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical
corporal and serves as assistant
University. He earned his
zone supervisor with the
doctoral degree of philosophy
Missouri State Highway Patrol,
in technology from Purdue
patrolling south St. Louis County.
University.
Mike Cosgrove ’01 and his
Steve Bode ’03 is the head
spouse, Melissa, announced the
men’s soccer coach at Loyola
birth of their son, Joseph Patrick,
University Chicago.
born June 30, 2022, who joins two older sisters. The Cosgroves
Kevin Butler ’03 and his
live in Cedarburg, Wis.
spouse, Heather, announced the birth of their son, Ian
Michael Duchek ’01 is a senior
Robert Butler, born June 16,
legislative attorney for the
2022. The Butlers live in
Wisconsin Legislative Reference
New Berlin, Wis.
Bureau. He and his family reside in Verona, Wis.
Wassim Malas ’03 is executive director of the Wisconsin
Violet Rosemarie Peterson
Daniel Rivera ’01 was named to
Muslim Civic Alliance.
the Milwaukee Business Journal
You can use this QR code to complete an alumni update form.
50 MUHS Magazine
2023 40 Under 40 list. He is a
Patrick McGarry ’03 was
deputy sheriff for the Milwaukee
named to the Milwaukee
County Sheriff’s Office.
Business Journal 2023
ALUMNI UPDATE
40 Under 40 list. He is COO and
Mike Jurken ’05 and his
CFO of Wixon, a custom flavor
spouse, Monica, announced
solutions provider to the food
the birth of their son, Tanner
and beverage industry.
Conrad Jurken, on May 24, 2022. Jurken is president of
Conor Sweeney ’03 is the
Majic Productions and
Public Affairs Director at Elliott
serves on the MUHS Board of
Investment Management.
Directors. The Jurkens live
He and his spouse, Ruth, and
in Brookfield, Wis.
their three daughters live in Delray Beach, Fla.
Adam Dugan ’06 and his spouse, Kim, announced the
Tim Baumgartner ’04 and his
birth of their first son, Gerald,
spouse, Renee, announced the
born on December 7, 2020.
birth of their son, Thomas Daniel, on Aug. 3, 2021.
Raman Kutty ’06 is an internal
CLASS OF 2003 REUNION SEPTEMBER 22 & 23, 2023 QUESTIONS OR IDEAS FOR YOUR REUNION? PLEASE CONTACT 2003 REUNION COMMITTEE: Tom Naleid Jim Packee Brian Perszyk Joe Schmidt
tom.naleid@gmail.com jpackee@gmail.com perszyk.brian@gmail.com jpmu2003@yahoo.com
medicine physician at White Andrew Steinhafel ’04 was
River Health System in Batesville,
named to the Milwaukee
Ark. He also serves as
Business Journal 2023 40 Under
vice president of Healthcare
40 list. He is president of
Innovation, a volunteer
Steinhafels Furniture.
position, at Bridge to Cures, a group of social entrepreneurs
Charlie Berens ’05 is a
who help inventors turn their
comedian, podcast host and
healthcare innovations into
author of the book, The
products and services that address
Midwest Survival Guide: How
unmet medical needs.
We Talk, Love, Work, Drink, and Eat . . . Everything with
John Lechtenberg ’07 is
Ranch, a New York Times
president of Marlin Technologies.
bestseller and humorous guide to Midwestern culture.
Benjamin Owen ’07 and his spouse, Kim, announced the
Devere Burnett ’05 is a vocal
birth of their daughter Madelyn
artist manager with IMG
Kimberly Owen, on May 31,
Artists, based at its New York
2021. The Owens live in South
headquarters.
Windsor, Conn.
opposite, left to right: Joseph Patrick Cosgrove Ellie Daisy Klemm this page, above: Thomas Baumgartner this page, left to right: Sam ’02 and Mindy Johnson with their son, Michael. middle: Robert Butler left: Tanner Jurken
www.MUHS.edu 51
ALUMNI UPDATE
Valerian Peterson ’08 and his spouse, Sarah, announced the birth of their daughter, Violet Rosemarie, on Sept. 11, 2022, joining big brother Val Jr. The Petersons live in Pewaukee, Wis. John Basich ’09 married Marie Fredrickson on Sept. 9, 2020. He and Marie announced the
from UW School of Medicine
CLASS OF 2013 REUNION FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2023
birth of their son, John “Jack”
and Public Health. Sean McBride ’11 wed Nicole Gabaldon at St. Monica last August. Their wedding party included seven other Hilltoppers, including his brother and best man, Colin ’13 and Nicole’s brother Drew Gabaldon ’14. The McBrides currently live in Chicago.
Robert, born on Nov. 11, 2022. The Basiches live in Milwaukee. Kevin Boyle ’09 married
TOURS OF MUHS FOLLOWED BY REUNION PARTY
Danica Cohen on April 9, 2022. William Hughes ’09 married Rebecca Augustine on October 1, 2022.
Eric Obscherning ’11 is a rare disease and advanced therapy (cell and gene) policy advocate and strategic advisor to senior
QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR REUNION? PLEASE CONTACT Kevin Eberle ’18 at eberle@muhs.edu
executives. He is in the executive master’s of science in Health Economics, Policy and Management at London School of Economics and Political Science.
Indalecio de Jesus Valentin ’10 plays Old Deuteronomy in the
Tim Schlidt ’11 is cofounder
40th Anniversary North American
and partner at Palo Santo.
Tour of Cats. He is the first
Andrew Miller ’10 married
Anthony Crivello ’11 is an
He was named to the Forbes
Latino to play the role. Devere
Stephanie Atwell on Dec. 31,
executive vice president at
30 Under 30 list, which
Burnett ’05 is his manager.
2022, at Old St. Mary’s
Phoenix Investors. He is married
recognizes the nation’s
church in downtown Milwaukee.
to Carolyn and lives in Milwaukee
brightest young entrepreneurs
Rev. John LoCoco ’10 is the
Stephanie, a DSHA alumna,
with their son and future
and leaders.
vocation director at the
and Andrew first met in 2006
Hilltopper Frank Enzo Crivello.
Archdiocese of Milwaukee and
as freshmen at an MUHS
chaplain for the Catholic
football game.
Ecology Center, a nonprofit
Dan Vite ’11 is a staff quality John Kopriva ’11 is an orthopedic
engineer at Stryker Endoscopy
surgery resident with the
and lives in San Jose, Calif.
organization founded by
Ben Wagner ’10 released a
Emory University School of
He is a graduate of the University
environmental science teacher
new album, Inner State.
Medicine in Atlanta. He
of Iowa where he earned a
Joe Meyer.
He lives in Nashville.
earned his medical degree
degree in biomedical engineering.
52 MUHS Magazine
ALUMNI UPDATE
Br. Jordan Deguire ’12 professed
Payton Gill ’13 is a lieutenant
solemn vows at St. Vincent
and a naval aviator for the
Ferrer Parish in River Forest, Ill.
Strike Fighter community in
He joined the Dominican Order
the U.S. Navy. He earned the
in 2016 and is assigned to
coveted Wings of Gold,
St. Dominic Priory in St. Louis.
ranked No. 1 in his class and earned the Top Gun Award.
Javier Mora ’12 is resident
right: Colin McBride ’13, Sean McBride ’11, Nicole Gabaldon and Drew Gabaldon ’14 below left: Alumni attending Kevin Boyle’s wedding (left to right): Joe Burkhart ’94, Dan Gramann ’01, Tom Druml ’70, John Foley ’79, David Druml ’73, Dan Druml 79, Dan McBride ’88, Mark Frederick ’74, Drew Fink ’09, John McDermott ’76, Nick Engel ’09, Mike Greene ’90,
physician, Harvard
Favian Gonzalez ’13 was
Radiation Oncology at Mass
named to the Milwaukee
General Brigham.
Business Journal 2023
Peter Rebholz ’09, Joe Fox ’09,
40 Under 40 list. He is a
Ryan Bonfiglio ’09, Sam Sladky ’09,
Dare Ogunbowale ’12 is a
partner director at the non
running back for the Houston
profit, The Ability Center,
Texans. In February he spoke
and co-founder and
to students about his football
coach at Street Dreams
career, playing for UW–Madison
Soccer Academy.
Kevin Boyle ’09, Willy Hughes ’09, Scott Brunow ’09, Josh Rose ’09,
Alex DeGrave ’09, Eric Sweeney ’15, John Hodges ’09, Billy Fox ’11 and Tyler Anderson ’09 below right: Rev. John LoCoco ’10 and Joe Meyer
Badgers and in the NFL.
opposite, left to right: Jack Basich Marie Fredrickson and John Basich ’09 Alumni attending Willy Hughes ’09 wedding: Tyler Andersen ’09, Scott Brunow ’09, Alexander DeGrave ’09, Peter Rebholz ’09, Willy Hughes ’09, Gus Murray (Chicago), James “Casey” Hughes ’06, Thomas J. Duffey III ’08 Stephanie Atwell and Andrew Miller ’10 this page, left to right: Ben Wagner ’10 Frank Crivello Dare Ogunbowale ’12
www.MUHS.edu 53
ALUMNI UPDATE
Graduates return for inaugural Young Alumni College Fair More than 60 young alumni returned to their alma mater on Jan. 6, 2023 for Marquette High’s inaugural Young Alumni College Fair. Juniors and seniors had the opportunity to talk with the alums about college life and their current colleges/universities. Afterward, the Alumni Relations office hosted a thank you lunch in the B&G for the participants. Interested in participating in next year’s Young Alumni College Fair? Please email Director of Alumni, Kevin Eberle at eberle@muhs.edu. right: St. Norbert College students: Patrick Daniels ’21, Logan Anderson ’21, Charlie Whelan ’21 and Daniel Pereira ’22 opposite top: MIT student Eric Delgado ’22 below: Creighton alumni and students: Jeff Monday ’84, Jim Strom ’18, Tim Stuckslager ’22, Ryan Cleary ’22 and Fr. Michael Marco, SJ opposite bottom: Alumni enjoying lunch after meeting with students (left to right): Malachi Brown ’20, Max Pickart ’20, Jack Lutze ’20, Henry Hegemann ’21, Logan Homberg ’20, Chris McKenna ’20 and Luke Gehringer ’20 Photos by VIP Photography
54 MUHS Magazine
ALUMNI UPDATE
www.MUHS.edu 55
ALUMNI UPDATE
OFF THE BOOKSHELF
Works authored by MUHS alumni
The Elements of Instruction: A Framework for the Age
The Prague Circle: Franz Kafka, Egon Erwin Kisch,
of Emerging Technologies by Michael Molenda ’59
Max Brod, Franz Werfel, Paul Kornfeld, and their Legacies
The Journey’s End: An Investigation of Death and Dying in Modern America by Michael Connelly ’71
by Stephen Shearier ’70 The Whole Durn Human Comedy: Life According to the Coen Brothers by Joseph McBride ’65 Red, White, Blue, and Catholic by Stephen White ’99
56 MUHS Magazine
Tales of Whimsy, Verses of Woe by Tim DeRoche ’88 The Study Guide to the Encyclical Letter of Pope Francis by Marcus Mescher ’00 The Midwest Survival Guide: How We Talk, Love, Work, Drink, and Eat . . . Everything with Ranch by Charlie Berens ’05
ALUMNI UPDATE
Noah Simmons ’13 is
3D printing. Greg was the
Engineering in May 2022.
selected to be paired with the
clubhouse assistant at the
inaugural speaker of Marquette
Jon Gaines, II ’18 was drafted
Université Fédéral Toulouse
Atlanta Braves and was
High’s Young Alumni Mentoring
in the fourth round by the
Midi-Pyrénées, focusing on
a member of the 2020 World
Society, started by Jack Miller ’23
Arizona Cardinals. He is the 11th
helping students with disabilities
Series championship team.
and Owen Killoran ’23.
Hilltopper to reach the NFL.
gain better access to inter-
John Brotherhood ’17 is
Dominic Lambo ’18 is a project
He has worked with the Braves’ organization since 2018.
national mobility. the founder and owner of Red
manager at Epic and his
Daniel Meyer ’20 is a Biking
Joe Coplan ’14 is an academic
Dinosaur Productions LLC,
research article regarding novel
for Babies missionary, raising
support teacher and tutor at
a video production start-up
peptide-based conjugates
money and awareness for
in Milwaukee.
was recently published in the
pregnancy resource centers
Journal of Molecular Diversity.
in the Milwaukee area.
engineer at Lockheed Martin
Nolan Baldewicz ’19 is
Peter Keepman ’20 is studying
Skunk Works in Palmdale, Calif.
a nursing student at Marquette
philosophy and theology at
University. He received VA
Blackfriars Hall, University of
MUHS. He has been the head coach of the MUHS freshman volleyball team since 2019. Negassi Tesfamichael ’14 is an
John Otten ’17 is an aerospace
associate in King & Spalding’s Washington, D.C., office and
Joe Schubert ’17 accepted a
HPSP Scholarship, which offers
Oxford. Blackfriars is a permanent
a member of the firm’s Trial &
teaching position as middle
a one-year, paid nursing
private hall of the university
Global Disputes practice.
school mathematics and religion
internship and a full-time nursing
sponsored by the Dominican
He earned his law degree from
teacher at Saint Josaphat
position at a VA facility
Order and was first established
Northwestern University
Parish School in Milwaukee.
directly out of college.
in 1221.
Pritzker School of Law. Jonathan Contreras ’18 earned
Nelson Cowan ’19 won first
Ben Bykowski ’21 is attending
Brian Mays ’15 is a senior
a bachelor’s degree in English
place in the InnovateIN48
Berry College in Rome, Ga.
associate at Royal Capital.
and was the commencement
Hackathon. The competition
He passed the national EMT
student speaker at St. Norbert
was hosted by FIS. His team of
exam and now serves as a
Michael Rolfe ’15 is a medical
College in May 2022. He is
three developed an innovative
volunteer firefighter and EMT.
student at University of
an aspiring attorney and
solution to address financial
Wisconsin School of Medicine
paralegal at Legal Aid Society
inclusion for both under-
Keegan Doyle ’22 was named
and Public Health.
in Milwaukee.
represented groups and those
a college-sponsored National
starting their financial journey.
Merit Scholarship winner and
Greg Reesman ’16 is the director
Maxwell Dixon ’18 earned a
of technology and media
bachelor’s degree in mechanical
Dominic DeMichele ’20 served
of Alabama. Keegan plans to
concept engineer at PROTOTYP3,
engineering from Marquette
as an intern at the Innovation
study electrical engineering.
a concept engineering studio
University and was the
Policy Internship Program
specializing in design and
commencement student speaker
through the French Embassy in
manufacturing for large-format
for the Opus College of
Toulouse, France. He was also
was selected by the University
far left: Jack Miller (left) and Greg Reesman ’16 middle: UW—Madison medical students Peter Volkert ’16, Michael Roelfe ’15 and Hassan Zagloul ’14 right: NFL drafted Jon Gaines ’18
www.MUHS.edu 57
REST IN PEACE
Frank Kopenski Longtime teacher and coach Frank Kopenski passed away in April 2022 at the age of 92.
Frank Kopenski in 1971
Fr. Bill Doran, SJ, Fr. Charles Burns, SJ and Frank Kopenski in 1991, the year he retired from MUHS.
58 MUHS Magazine
Kopenski started his 37-year career at MUHS in 1955 teaching U.S. history and physical education. During his tenure he also coached football, basketball and track, and would lead the Hilltoppers to seven Catholic Conference championships in both football and track and five state championships in track. After coaching, he would go on to serve as athletic director and was honored in 1977 as Man of the Year by the Wisconsin Independent Schools Athletic Association. Kopenski was known for his no-nonsense classroom management style and one-liners, “square in your seat,” and “quit yer crappin’ around!” according to 1991 Flambeau editors who wrote a farewell message honoring the then-retiring educator. He was also remembered for sharing stories of his childhood, growing up in the U.P and his tour of duty in Germany while serving in the U.S. Army. Most notably, Kopenski would take one day out of the year to teach students how to trap, kill and skin a muskrat. The 1991 Flambeau farewell message concluded, “His classes were never boring, and neither is Mr. Kopenski.”
ALUMNI UPDATE
Rest in Peace
We extend our sincerest sympathy to the families of the alumni listed here and to any alumni who have lost a loved one.
Raymond R. Szaj ’38 April 29, 2022
Paul J. Ferr ’50 January 20, 2023
J. Richard Owan, Jr. ’53 December 8, 2022
Michael J. Doyle ’57 November 12, 2022
Leo S. Brzezinski, Jr. ’44 September 25, 2022
Ronald J. Holzhauer ’50 May 9, 2022
George J. Schober ’53 June 10, 2022
David A. Sheridan ’57 June 23, 2022
Arthur A. Gebhardt ’46 January 11, 2022
Fred H. Keller ’50 January 12, 2023
Lawrence J. Bugge ’54 April 26, 2023
David M. Voss ’57 August 14, 2022
Phillip C. Hahn ’46 January 28, 2023
Thomas M. Nencka ’50 October 29, 2022
Thomas A. Cajski ’54 September 11, 2022
Robert M. Whalen ’57 March 19, 2023
Rev. Frederick E. Brenk, SJ ’47 December 3, 2022
William R. Pledl ’50 April 22, 2022
Michael P. Casey ’54 October 2, 2022
D. Michael Guerin ’58 June 1, 2022
Daniel J. Casey ’47 February 27, 2022
Donald J. Wilde ’50 March 20, 2023
Paul P. Didier ’54 June 15, 2022
James S. Mitchell, Jr. ’58 December 29, 2022
Thomas S. Reilly ’47 October 12, 2022
James P. Cornwall ’51 October 23, 2022
Michael J. Tesa ’54 August 6, 2022
Jack J. Pelner ’58 March 22, 2022
Robert A. Scheurer ’47 September 4, 2022
Robert J. Henke ’51 April 18, 2022
Thomas P. Weber ’54 October 15, 2022
Br. Michael R. Wilmot, SJ ’58 February 24, 2022
James A. Murphy ’48 October 10, 2022
Cornelius C. Shields ’51 June 16, 2022
John T. Duffey ’55 January 9, 2023
Thomas E. Wissing ’58 December 7, 2022
John E. Schumacher ’48 October 23, 2022
James A. Wenders ’51 October 10, 2022
James E. Johnson ’55 March 19, 2023
Lance A. Ehrke ’59 April 8, 2023
Don F. Stark ’48 April 14, 2022
John P. Wolter ’51 February 2, 2023
Robert J. Scholler ’55 February 7, 2022
Robert A. Haushalter ’59 March 15, 2023
Roger C. Stephan ’48 October 30, 2022
Raymond T. Dwyer ’52 February 8, 2023
Peter E. Weber ’55 April 22, 2023
John J. Kastner ’59 September 6, 2022
Thaddeus L. Wisniewski, Sr.’48 January 3, 2023
Louis A. Gral ’52 September 12, 2022
Ronald J. Arendt ’56 December 8, 2022
William B. Mayer ’59 November 21, 2022
Thomas W. Kwak ’52 July 29, 2022
Edward F. Fink ’56 April 27, 2023
Joseph A. Stoll, Jr. ’59 March 18, 2022
Patrick W. Lavin ’52 March 9, 2022
Thomas P. Hafsoos ’56 January 12, 2022
Laurence C. Wilkinson ’59 March 29, 2023
Richard L. Skwierawski ’52 February 7, 2022
Patrick J. McDonald ’56 November 11, 2022
Paul F. Kelly ’60 June 21, 2022
Richard F. Meurer ’53 November 25, 2022
Thomas M. Donahue ’57 April 14, 2022
Ted P. Wysocki ’60 August 4, 2022
Francis J. Kosednar ’49 June 4, 2022 Bernard W. Daley ’50 September 30, 2022 Richard O. Duffey ’50 October 2, 2022
www.MUHS.edu 59
ALUMNI UPDATE
Rest in Peace David M. Gorski ’61 January 21, 2022
Michael F. Uebelherr ’67 January 3, 2022
Michael T. Feely ’89 July 25, 2022
Thomas R. Bonk ’62 November 25, 2022
John G. DeGrace ’68 July 19, 2022
Michael M. Papin ’90 January 15, 2022
Dennis F. Hanrahan ’62 January 1, 2023
John P. Fetherston, III ’68 March 20, 2022
Matthew M. Chaney ’91 June 10, 2022
James P. Sheridan ’63 February 14, 2022
John M. Reynolds ’68 January 4, 2022
Christopher J. Mallinger ’98 December 9, 2022
Michael P. Sonnenberg ’63 January 30, 2022
Richard D. Holton ’69 November 3, 2022
Thomas E. Schopp ’00 June 6, 2022
Kenneth R. Doro ’64 February 28, 2022
Robert A. Sobczak ’71 March 19, 2022
Antjuan M. Taylor ’02 January 20, 2022
George P. Kinzfogl, Jr. ’64 March 31, 2022
James P. Cavanaugh ’74 March 6, 2023
Philip J. Mazzulla ’05 December 1, 2022
Mr. Terrence M. Baun ’65 January 1, 2022
Michael P. Magolan ’74 March 13, 2023
Michael D. Mastroianni ’07 October 30, 2022
Nicholas S. Lascari ’65 November 2, 2022
Keith J. Mezera ’74 December 1, 2022
Matthew D. Ledvina ’08 March 24, 2023
Gary A. Gradisnik ’66 January 8, 2023
Thomas J. Webb ’76 May 29, 2022
Jasper P. Szews ’08 August 31, 2022
David R. Nahin ’66 April 29, 2022
Michael George ’77 January 2, 2023
(As of April 30, 2023)
John P. Malloy II ’67 April 1, 2023
Peter F. Herzog ’77 October 15, 2022
Jay R. Multhauf ’67 September 21, 2022
Todd R. Krueger ’77 January 21, 2022
Robert G. Rice, Jr. ’67 September 9, 2022
Mark J. Biedlingmaier ’78 March 13, 2022
William J. Ruidl ’67 March 2, 2023
Gerald S. Fitzgibbons ’79 June 20, 2022
John J. Toben ’67 April 10, 2022
Charles P. Cain ’86 February 7, 2023
60 MUHS Magazine
FROM THE ARCHIVES
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The 1937 Fencing Team Chris Lese ’92
Next time you venture into the gymnasium, take a look at the school’s long list of athletic State championship titles. It may be a surprise that Marquette High’s only team State title—in 1937—was for fencing. Interest in fencing boomed when the school brought on coach Erwin M. Preussler. Born in Germany, Preussler immigrated to Wisconsin in 1888 at the age of 14 and within a few years, was a State fencing champion. He was brought on to build a fencing program at MUHS in 1935 and the sport quickly caught on among the students, who practiced somewhere on the fourth floor.
In 1937, the Marquette Saber-men defeated West Division and Rufus King for the State title and would win two of the next three State titles—narrowly losing by hundredths of a point in 1938. After Preussler moved on to head up the fencing program at Marquette University, interest in the sport waned at MUHS until the program folded in 1943.
www.MUHS.edu 61
Non Profit Org. US POSTAGE PAID Milwaukee, WI Permit No. 5299
3401 W. Wisconsin Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53208
SAVE THE DATE CLASSES OF 1963 . 1973 . 1983 . 1993 . 1998 . 2003
SEPTEMBER 22 & 23, 2023
REUNION WEEKEND MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL
For more information, please contact Director of Alumni Relations, Kevin Eberle ’18 at eberle@muhs.edu