MUHS Magazine 2023 Volume 67

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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FEATURES

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

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REUNION WEEKEND MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL

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