PVI Panther Tracks -- "GROW!" -- Winter 2014 by St. Paul VI Catholic High School

PA U L V I C AT HOL IC H IG H S C HO OL

Beyond

WINTER 2014

“WHEN WE LOOK TO BRING OUT THE BEST IN OTHERS WE BRING OUT THE BEST IN OURSELVES”...

alumni, stay in touch! send your news, updates, or address changes to alumni@paulvi.net C O NTAC T U S : S C HOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 0 3 . 3 5 2 . 0 9 2 5 A D M I S S IO N S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 0 3 . 3 5 2 . 0 9 2 5 X 3 3 1 ehanle y @ paul v i . ne t

Inside Panther Tracks School News

2-6

Sports News

Options Expansion

8-9

A D VA N C E M E N T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 0 3 . 3 5 2 . 0 9 2 5 X 3 6 3 aesguer r a @ paul v i . ne t A L U M N I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 0 3 . 3 5 2 . 0 9 2 5 X 3 3 9 alumni @ paul v i . ne t COMMUNICATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 703.352.0925 X310 ecur r en @ paul v i . ne t Virginia Colwell

Dan Kochis

Tom Opfer ’96

Don La Velle

Margaret Latessa

Abigail Esguerra

Eileen Hanley

Billy Emerson

Patrick McGroarty

Eileen Kiley Curren ’98

Principal

Alumni Spotlights

10-18

Dean of Academics

Reunions 19-21 Alumni Updates & News

22-24

Alumni Weddings

25-27

In Memoriam

Dean of Faculty

Director of Admissions & Student Life Director of Operations & Dean of Students

Rev. Michael J.R. Kelly School Chaplain

Director of Guidance Director of Finance Director of Advancement Athletic Director

Director of Communications

Annie Desmarais ‘08

Associate Director of Alumni Relations

S C HO O L BO A RD O F P V I 20 1 4 -2 0 1 5

Make a Donation. Make a Difference. As another calendar year comes to a close, we invite you to support the PVI Annual Fund. Your tax-deductible contribution provides:

Need based financial aid and academic scholarships

Professional development opportunities for faculty and staff

Technology upgrades

Support for Options, the Academic Center for Excellence, the DeSales Learning Center and our Literacy Program

Improvements to our facility

On behalf of all the students, faculty and staff, thank you for your support of PVI’s commitment to helping our children “Grow in Grace and Wisdom.”

Designations for Paul VI: Combined Federal Campaign #95839

Rev. Edward C. Hathaway Rev. Michael J.R. Kelly Sr. Bernadette McManigal Virginia Colwell Jerry Bozek Kelly Connors Michael Connors Ken Coan Ted Devlin Donald Ditko John Emery Evelyn Enciso

Lori Freeman Mike Gadell Eileen Hanley Cheryl Kijewski Donald La Velle Don Loren Tom McLean Donna Mock Matt Reynolds Jamie Saylor Nancy Woodley

O U R MIS S IO N The mission of Paul VI Catholic High School is to provide an excellent Catholic education to young men and women by affording them the means to achieve spiritual, intellectual, personal, social and physical development according to the teachings of the Gospel and St. Francis de Sales. Paul VI Catholic High School is committed to graduating responsible, moral, service oriented young adults who will continue to “grow in grace and wisdom.”

United Way #8336 Paul VI Catholic High School is a charitable, tax exempt donation pursuant to section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent the law allows.

The Paul VI Fund supports the operation and enhancement of Paul VI Catholic High School. Your gift makes an ongoing difference in the lives of our students. To help PVI students, faculty and staff PANTHER TR ACK S winter 2014 “grow in grace and wisdom,” please visit www.paulvi.net and click Support PVI.

P RINC IPA L’S L E TTE R Grow – we all do it. There is the physical “grow” as we go from infants to toddlers to teens to adults, all in the blink of an eye. Even those of us who have more birthdays than others (thank you for the terminology, Dr. Potter), continue to grow – hopefully in a more reflective sense. During their time at PVI, we encourage our students to challenge themselves, knowing that these challenges will lead to growth that is spiritual, academic, and social. We remember those in our own lives who challenged us and made us grow through those challenges. We are always gratified when students continue their growth as they go through the many stages in their lives. This issue of Panther Tracks spotlights alumni who work with individuals with special needs. They found a way to reach out to others in their growth journeys and, in doing so, found a continuation of their own journey of growth. They have found a passion in service to others. Many of the stories you will read were inspired by their own experiences in Options as Peer Mentors. George Eliot once said, “The strongest principle of growth lies in human choice.” At PVI, we celebrate the choices of our students and alumni; and we pray they will continue to “grow in grace and wisdom” in all they do.

Virginia Colwell, Principal

“WHEN WE LOOK TO BRING OUT THE BEST IN OTHERS WE BRING OUT THE BEST IN OURSELVES” PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

SCH OOL N EW S

Paul VI Named School of Excellence aul VI has been recognized by the Cardinal Newman Society as a 2014 School of Excellence. Honor Roll schools receiving this designation are marked by the integration of Catholic identity throughout all aspects of their programs and excellence in academics. This year seventy-one schools received the honor of being named a School of Excellence, and an additional nine received the distinction of Honorable Mention. This is fewer than five percent of the Catholic high schools in the United States. Paul VI previously has been named one of the Top 50 Catholic high schools in the U.S. by the Cardinal Newman Society. “Since competition began in 2004, the Honor Roll has been a helpful tool for administrators, families and benefactors in recognizing the quality of a Catholic high school education,” said Patrick J. Reilly, President of The Cardinal Newman Society. “The Honor Roll schools are a reminder that Catholic education is getting better every daynot only academically, but in the renewal of Catholic identity – and we are delighted to see the increased level of competition among the schools that participated in the program this year.”

“This honor is shared by all in our community: faculty, staff, administrators, students and parents. It is a validation that we are ‘fighting the good fight!’ Congratulations to us all.” – Principal Ginny Colwell

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SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE

Freshmen Earn Scholarships Incoming student in the Class of 2018 were awarded a number of different merit based scholarships: 2014 PVI Legacy Scholarship: Kathryn Coritz, Sean Irons, Joshua Romero, Jack Vance Academic Scholarship: Vincent Lee, Grace Smith, David Topping

Seniors Theresa Neubig, Brian Owings, and Sarah Thomas were named National Merit Semifinalists. The semifinalists represent the top-scoring students in each state and make up less than one percent of all high school seniors. Congratulations to Theresa, Brian and Sarah!

Barbara Stern Scholarship: Erika Ishizuka, Isabella Lu, Joseph Paquette Cunningham Scholarship: Maria Foster DeSales Scholarship: Italia Carnazza, Patrick Cole, Jacob Roszkowiak Father McMahon Scholarship: Noah Gurley, Bianca Pell Louise Saylor Scholarship: Sarah D’Esopo, Christina Green Mothers’ Club Legacy Scholarship: Cyrus Banta, Seung Yun Lee, Kathryn Stefano, Noah Strike Msgr. Hannon Scholarship: Daniel Jacobs Principal’s Scholarship: Antonella Henson-Vendrell, Catherine Hebert, Larry Williams

United in Service Established this school year, the new St. Joseph’s Service Club is made up of junior and senior boys devoted to performing service to the community. Activities have included raking leaves for PVI neighbors, helping with jobs around the school, and making a meal and serving food at a homeless shelter. According to Campus Minister Joyce Krolicki, “These boys have the help and backing of a group of PVI dads who give their time to model the character of St Joseph, their patron.” The group also hopes to create an outdoor prayer grotto at Paul VI sometime in the spring.

PVI Alumni Legacy Scholarship: Marshall Thompson, Thomas Kyte Salesian: James Copley, Emily Pham, Grace Tecala, Margaret Mitchell Fine Arts: Ava Plante, Madyn Coakley Papke Scholarship: Kim Phan Salesian Scholar: Samuel McKee

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

SCHO OL N EW S

Finding Christ at the Farm Meeting God in Rome n September, fifteen sophomores and four chaperones embarked on a four day mission trip to Nazareth Farm in West Virginia. Nazareth Farm is a Catholic community that serves alongside its neighbors to provide home repair to substandard housing. The four pillars of Nazareth Farm are prayer, simplicity, community and service. Students performed jobs such as repairing roofs and siding, and doing chores around the farm such as gardening and cooking. The homeowners they helped were very appreciative and made an effort to connect with the groups working on their homes. The group had prayer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. During “shared prayer,” each person was asked to share how they saw God that day. The trip was led by Joyce Krolicki, Paul VI campus ministry coordinator, and Paul VI chaplain, Father Michael J.R. Kelly. On Saturday night, students gathered for adoration and Father Kelly was available for confession. Krolicki said that the evening prayer time was her favorite time. “We’re just so busy here at PVI, and I love that – any time we go away – to be able to really take time to be quiet and unplug. No cellphones, no watches – really unplug. We all valued that experience – after a day of hard work, to come back to the farm and to sit around in the evening and to talk about where we saw Christ, how we felt serving someone else, and what we learned about ourselves.”

Stephen Artner and Grace Lloyd help repair siding during a mission trip to Nazareth Farm, W.Va., Sept. 18-21. STORY BY MAGGIE CORNEJO ’17 AND STEPHEN ARTNER ‘17 4

PANTHER TR ACK S winter 2014

Reflections on Pilgrimage to Rome for Beatification of Pope Paul VI A group made up of Paul VI students, teachers and parents had the special opportunity to travel on a pilgrimage to Rome to witness the Beatification of Pope Paul VI on October 19th. PVI Chaplain Rev. Michael J.R. Kelly and a few students reflected on the journey: “The pilgrimage to Rome is a trip I will never forget. I didn’t just make new friends and meet new people, I became closer to Jesus in a way that even I can’t explain. I got to see beautiful basilicas, churches and the pope – who was about 20 feet away from me – and witness Blessed Pope Paul VI’s beatification. Most people don’t get to experience that in a lifetime. Every place we visited and every Mass Father Kelly celebrated, I felt my faith getting stronger and stronger.” – Valentina Diaz, Paul VI sophomore “A pilgrimage is more than an agenda of sights to see. It is a time of spiritual renewal. My experience in Rome was life-changing, because it taught me to truly listen to God. I used to view Mass as something you had to do. I didn’t look at it as something enjoyable. But after this pilgrimage, I learned that Mass was established to bring you closer to God. Mass in Rome was like experiencing heaven on earth. The artwork circulating all around the churches we visited gave a sensation of not being on earth but in heaven with Our Lord.” – Isabella Maletesta, sophomore “Pilgrimage is not about being a tourist. Pilgrimage is about being changed personally, having your sins forgiven, experiencing art and understanding what a church is saying to you about someone…Pilgrimage is about persons meeting persons and in the end about meeting God and listening to Him. For many of the students, Mass came alive. To meet the saints and the relics of Our Lord and see their reality brings home God’s love for each of us. One of the most important stops on the pilgrimage was the Holy Steps. We prayed about what it would be like to walk up those steps with Our Lord – how difficult and heroic that must have been. The pilgrims went up on their knees, as the tradition goes. I think they all met Jesus in their own way there. We went seeking the Lord in Rome and to celebrate our patron’s beatification. We got more than selfies and pictures to share. We were changed because we opened the door to Jesus.” – Rev. Michael J.R. Kelly, PVI Chaplain

F.I.S.H. members participated in a day of team building at The Edge in Manassas.

Encouraging a Nurturing Spirit n her new role as

of contemporary social issues affecting

Pastoral Counselor,

students.

Denny Kline ministers

A new initiative that Denny has started is

to students’ spiritual

the F.I.S.H. Peer Counseling group. The club

and emotional needs.

members chose the name which stands for

“A pastoral counselor

Friends, Inviting, Sharing, Healing. Members

is a person who is trained to give spiritual

of F.I.S.H. attended a team development

and mental health guidance to empower

day at George Mason’s “The Edge”

growth of the human spirit,” shares Denny.

Challenge Course and had several days

Hired before PVI opened its doors in 1984,

of training.

Denny had been PVI’s Campus Minister for

The mission of F.I.S.H. is to provide peers

over 28 years when she was in a serious car

and Stress Workshops and Taize Prayer

at Paul VI with someone to talk to, who

crash. After returned to Paul VI following

Services, where students are able to pray for

will listen and be a friend. According to

her recovery, Denny transitioned to the new

individual petitions collected from religion

their mission statement, F.I.S.H. members

role of Pastoral Counselor, working about 10

classes.

dedicate themselves to always be available

hours a week.

for anyone in the PVI faith community

In her role as Pastoral Counselor, Denny

within a confidential setting. They make

works with the Administration, Guidance

an effort to accept, understand, trust and

and faculty members to provide guidance

respect each individual.

to members of the PVI community,

Students are referred to F.I.S.H. by other

encourages a faith community and provides

individuals affected by someone suffering

students, advisors, teachers and guidance

pastoral care and spiritual support to all

from addiction.

counselors. Students act as a listening ear to

members of the community.

other students who feel like they aren’t fitting

Denny is also tasked with serving as a

in or just need a friend. “Peers tend to listen to

member of the Paul VI Response team in the

peers more than adults. This is a community-

event of a death in the school community

oriented group and we hope there will be

or other crisis, as well as raising awareness

positive peer pressure,” Denny shares.

In addition to meeting with students one on one, F.I.S.H. has also organized Anxiety

As Pastoral Counselor, Denny also runs a bereavement group called “The People Who Get It” for those students suffering from the loss of a loved one, as well as SADD, a confidential student group for

In addition to the thousands of lives she has touched at Paul VI, in 2010, Denny was awarded the Diocese of Arlington More Award. This lifetime achievement award is presented annually to those who have made significant contributions to youth or campus ministry over the course of their lifetime. As the moderator of these student groups, Denny helps students deal with some of the tough issues students face today while encouraging them to play an active role in strengthening the PVI faith community. “I guide, but I let the students run things.

Denny meets with members of F.I.S.H. to plan their upcoming activities.

These are life issues. They are learning from, teaching and supporting one other.” PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

SCHO OL N EW S

Student Ambassadors Lead Fairfax High School’s 50th Reunion Tours s part of their 50th reunion weekend, the

FHS Reunion chair Jane Spargo had this to say about the Student

Fairfax High School Class of 1964 came back

Ambassadors: “So many people complimented the students as

to Paul VI for tours guided by PVI student

amazing examples of young people today. They were delightful,

ambassadors. The Paul VI building was still

courteous, supportive, inventive, patient, professional and divine.

Fairfax High School in 1964.

Thank you from the bottom of 105 hearts!”

Good Eats for a Good Cause Taste of PVI Supports Scholarships

On Friday, October 10th, the Paul VI Alumni Office hosted the first annual “Taste of PVI” event before the Homecoming football game. Alumni, former faculty, and present faculty and staff enjoyed samples from Café Rio, DietTo-GO, Jimmy John’s, Organo Gold, Prime Time, Georgee’s Pizza, and Zoe’s Kitchen. The $10 entrance fee raised money for scholarships for children of alumni.

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SCH OOL N EW S: ATHL E TIC S

Panthers Fall Sports Wrap Up • The CHEERLEADING SQUAD excited PVI fans while displaying their school spirit, athletic talents and the results of their hard work in practice.

Student-Athletes Sign to College Teams Student athletes from Paul VI signed letters of intent in November to play collegiate sports. Bottom row: Kayla Meador (St. Francis/basketball), Jonquanae Cole (NC State/basketball), Hanna Ashby (Mary Washingon/Lacrosse), Sarah Sotelo (Juniata/softball), Paige Gaut (Lynchburg/softball), Dawson Boese (Webber International/volleyball), Kendall Hunter (Indiana University in Pennsylvania/basketball), Anna Tapen (George Washington/soccer). Top row: Ryan Lamb (UVA/lacrosse), Patrick Gyennis (Maryland/lacrosse), Troy Jahelka (United States Naval Academy/lacrosse), Andrew Garstka (Gettysburg/lacrosse), Ryan O’Connor (University of North Carolina/lacrosse), Luke Brugel (University of Virginia/ lacrosse), Taylor Redmond (Gettysburg/lacrosse), Lane Grimes (VMI/lacrosse). Not pictured: Franklin Howard (Syracuse/basketball), Maddie Watson (East Carolina/soccer), David Williamson (Furman/lacrosse).

Menke Awards eter T. Menke was Athletic Director at Paul VI for 10 years. Sadly, he passed away in February 2011, shortly after retiring from over 40 years in education and athletics. Pete was known and loved by many for his positive attitude, big heart, intense loyalty, honesty and fairness. The “Menke Award” is an award for a senior (or junior, if a senior is not available) who exemplifies Mr. Menke’s characteristics. This award is PVI’s highest honor for our student-athletes. Schoolwide Menke Award winners are selected at the end of the year (one male & one female) and receive the honor at graduation.

FALL SPORTS MENKE AWARD RECIPIENTS: • Cheerleading..................................................................................Lydia Florez • Cross Country (Boys)........................................................Jack Danisewicz • Cross Country (Girls)................................................ Catherine Framstad • Football......................................................................................Ryan O’Connor • Soccer (Boys)............................................................................Jimmy Skipper • Soccer (Girls)...................................................................................Anna Tapen • Volleyball................................................................................... Dawson Boese

• The DANCE TEAM performed many amazing routines with grace and precision throughout the fall, as they continued to prepare for their national competition in February. • After a slow start, GIRLS’ SOCCER showed a late season surge winning 4 of their last 7 games, before falling in the WCAC quarterfinals. • FOOTBALL played a very tough schedule and ended the season with a 2-8 record. The Panthers battled hard in several close contests, losing four games by 2 touchdowns or less. • The BOYS’ SOCCER team finished the regular 2nd in the WCAC. The Panthers reached the WCAC tournament semifinals for a 7th consecutive season and reached the VISAA State Semifinals for the 5th time in the past 7 years. Senior Jimmy Skipper was named the WCAC Player of the Year. • CROSS COUNTY was the Virginia Catholic League Boys’ Runner-up. Along the way the boys and girls both finished near the top in several invitational meets. • GIRLS’ TENNIS finished with a 5-3 regular season record in the WCAC and placed 5th in the WCAC Tournament. • As one of the area’s top teams once again this year, GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL was ranked The Washington Post’s Top 10. The Panthers won 26 games, finishing as the WCAC Runner-up and VISAA State Runner-up. The Panthers have reached the WCAC finals six of the last eight years and the VISAA State final two years in a row. Sophomore Hailey Rubino was named WCAC Player of the Year.

MOST IMPORTANTLY… Over 60% of our fall STUDENT-ATHLETES received a Scholar Athlete Award certificate for maintaining a grade point average of 3.5 or higher during the fall season. NEARLY 50% OF THE HONOR ROLL (3.5 GPA) and the PRINCIPAL’S HONOR ROLL (4.0) WAS COMPRISED OF STUDENTS WHO PARTICIPATED IN A FALL SPORT. B I L LY E M E R S O N , AT H L E T I C D I R E C T O R

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

OPTION S P R O G R A M Thanks for helping OPTIONS to

Many thanks go to the organizations that made the Options Expansion possible: Porto Charities is a charitable organization dedicated to actively assisting people with developmental or intellectual disabilities, their community and their environment . Their mission is to raise and provide funds, resources, assistance, education, residences and overall improved quality of life for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities as well as promote education, awareness, friendship and social forums among members, their families and the community.

Above: Students in the Options program pose for their annual Thanksgiving card photo. At 16, this is the largest Options class in PVI’s history. Right: Four teachers in the Options program are PVI alums: Sarah Browne ’07, Megan Battle ’03, Jenny Hodge ’06 and Ellen Bower ’06.

Options Program is Bigger & Brighter hile the Options Program is not new to Paul VI, the program has undergone a number of changes to better serve the needs of students and teachers. Four new students joined Options this year, which brings a total of 16 students to the program in its 16th year. In addition, the Options classroom was renovated over the summer, separating the room into three different areas. The new configuration will allow several teachers to better work with Options students at the same time. Two new teachers joined the Options faculty this year: Ellen Bower ’06 and Megan Battle ‘03 (see facing page). Additionally, last year a semester-long peer mentor course was added to the list of elective courses. The class allows students to work with those in the Options program by assisting them in their classes. The class provides students “with an overview of knowledge on individuals with disabilities while simultaneously emphasizing the innate beauty and dignity of all human persons,” Battle said.

Junior Abby Thibodeau is enrolled in the Peer Mentor course and attends yearbook class every day with her Options buddy.

KOVAR is a Virginia Knights of Columbus Charity established in 1971 to provide financial assistance through grants and home loans to tax exempt organizations providing training and assistance to citizens with intellectual disabilities.

“Peer mentoring Meredith is such a great experience,” said Thibodeau. “Last year, I peer mentored a group of students in Options, but this year, it is just one-on-one. Working with someone one-on-one allows you to get to know and understand the person better.”

The Joey Pizzano Memorial Fund (JPMF) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children with special needs and their families. JPMF is primarily focused on helping children with special needs through water safety programs, an issue that is close to the organization’s founders.

Senior Erin Cassella also is enrolled in the peer mentor course and works with two Options students. “I’ve really enjoyed working with both Allie and Elizabeth this semester,” said Cassella. “Getting to know the students on a more personal note in an educational environment is fantastic. This class has opened my eyes and given me a new perspective on special education. Because of this course and other activities I am involved with, I’ve decided to pursue a career in special education.”

The Elizabeth Ann Healy Foundation seeks to provide financial assistance to families of sick children in need due to unexpected hardship or health issues. It is the hope of the Foundation that these gifts will ease their economic burden due to medical related expenses and offer more time for the emotional and physical solidarity these families yearn for and deserve.

With new students as well as teachers, a renovated classroom and a one-on-one elective course for peer mentors, the Options Program at Paul VI is looking bigger and brighter than ever. B Y B R I A N A F L O R E Z ‘ 15

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The Boomerang Foundation’s sole purpose is to support organizations and individuals who advocate for, support, and are dedicated to enhancing the lives of special needs individuals.

The mission of the Clarke Hook Foundation is to support women and children at risk through educational opportunities and to support service facilities and programs that provide for the welfare, custody, care and safety of children. The Wardinski Family Foundation seeks to support worthy causes like the Options Program at PVI.

OPTI ON S P R O G R A M

There are Two Familiar Faces Back in the PVI Options Program. A True Calling

position allows me to spend time in various classrooms observing and supporting the mentors as they build relationships with students in the Options program.”

Megan Battle ‘03

“I truly feel called to open peoples’ eyes and hearts to the gifts and graces people with disabilities possess,” shares Megan Battle ’03. Megan discovered her passion for Special Education in the halls of PVI, through a special friendship.

Megan Battle ‘03

“I came to PVI kicking and screaming, but in hindsight, I cannot imagine how my life would have turned out if I had not come to PVI. It was here I met a friend who would dramatically shape the course of my life – she was always happy, never judgmental, would find me in the halls and make sure to say hello. I found myself passing by her locker in hopes of getting one of her smiles or hugs. Her name was Vivi Alonso ‘02, and Vivi has Down’s syndrome.” Vivi stirred a desire in Megan’s heart to learn everything she could about people with disabilities. The next three years at PVI, she spent countless hours volunteering in Options and Special Olympics dances and sporting events. After PVI, Megan entered George Mason as a pre-nursing major, where Vivi was also attending the Mason LIFE program. After observing her friendship with Vivi and passion for the success of people with disabilities, the Mason LIFE Director called Megan into her office. “She told me point blank that I was pursuing the wrong major. In her opinion, I was meant to turn the world of special education upside down, in the best of ways,” Megan shares. With this encouragement, Megan immersed herself in anything and everything related to people with disabilities – working as a receptionist for the Special Education office at Mason, running programs for Fairfax County Therapeutic Recreation, serving as an applied behavior analysis therapist for a child with autism, and providing respite care at the Helen A. Keller Institute for Human disAbilities. After graduating with a B.S. in Psychology and minor in Special Education, Megan worked as a Resource Specialist at St. Luke School for one year and then was the founding Director of the Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School Options program. In her new role as PVI’s Peer Mentor Coordinator, Megan is responsible for all aspects of Options that involve mentors, including recruiting, scheduling, training and providing ongoing support. “This

With this encouragement, Megan immersed herself in anything and everything related to people with disabilities -- working as a receptionist at Mason’s Helen A. Keller Institute for Human disAbilities, running programs for Fairfax County Therapeutic Recreation, serving as an applied behavior analysis therapist for a child with autism, providing respite care and serving as an instructor in the Mason LIFE program.

Possibilities in Life Ellen Bower ‘06

has returned to Options as a Math teacher. During her time at Paul VI, Ellen was on the Swim and Dive team all four years and also participated in Campus Ministry. Ellen also got her start with Special Education during high school. “Mr. Hedderson’s Advisory included students who were a part of the Options program. I enjoyed spending time with them in Advisory and could not imagine Advisory without them,” Ellen shares. After Paul VI, Ellen attended Lynchburg College and graduated in 2010 with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Special Education. She also has received her Master’s in Special Education from George Mason University. Before coming to PVI, Ellen worked at a company for about 9 years working with children with autism.

Ellen Bower ‘06

“PVI really opened my eyes to the possibilities in life. The teachers here pushed you to be the best you could be and accepted nothing less.” – Ellen Bower ‘06

Ellen believes Paul VI helped prepare her for her education and career. “PVI really opened my eyes to the possibilities in life. The teachers here pushed you to be the best you could be and accepted nothing less. They were always there if you had questions or concerns about homework, classwork, or if you had questions about problems you got wrong on tests or quizzes. Teachers at PVI really helped me understand how to advocate for myself which has been the best lesson I have learned.” Ellen is happy to be back in the PVI community and excited to work with a new generation of students. “Watching my students be successful in class and excited about what they are learning is always motivating. I really enjoy those moments working with a student on a hard concept and suddenly that light bulb moment happens, and it all makes sense to them. They get the happiest look on their face when they know they have gotten it independently.”

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Special Moments in Sports Tommy Zigo ‘09 verything I have done in my career, from strategic communications to working on political campaigns, has always involved working with others. There is something truly inspiring and empowering about having the experience to tell someone else’s story. Their motivation motivates me,” shares Tommy Zigo ‘09. At PVI, Tommy was a student leader in many different capacities. He served on Student Government as student body president, student body vice president, sophomore class president, and freshman class president. He “PVI was the foundation was a member for where I am today for of Student Ambassadors two reasons: writing and and a founding community service. From member of college to working on Friends of political campaigns and Rachel (now now to my current job in REACH). He ran public relations, writing track & field and is an invaluable skill that I cross country honed at Paul VI that has and played helped me in every aspect soccer and of life.” volleyball. He – Tommy Zigo ‘09 was also a peer mentor in the Options program and volunteered at Special Olympics tournaments and dances.

“Paul VI also reinforced the importance of community service. I always seek to make positive Local Program Host for Butler County. In this role, he managed the soccer, bocce, and volleyball teams’ schedules and cheered on the athletes. For the next three years, he served as a competition volunteer along the long distance running course. Tommy graduated in May 2013 with a double major in Political Science and Communication and a minor in Writing and Rhetoric. He currently works in the Public Policy and Crisis Communications practice of Rubenstein Communications in New York City. In this job, he works with a variety of clients including Paramount Pictures, News Corp, and the New York Road Runners – including their premier event, the TCS New York City Marathon.

After Paul VI, Tommy attended Villanova University. Inspired by his involvement with peer mentoring and Special Olympics at PVI, Tommy sought out ways to stay involved in college.

Amongst the variety of assignments he has at Rubenstein, Tommy is still able to fulfill his passion for working with individuals with special needs. As a part of the media team for the TCS New York City Marathon, he has the opportunity to tell the stories of runners with special needs. “At the 2013 Marathon, I worked with twins who are severely autistic, barely able to muster a hello or goodbye. The twins ran New York after being on the Boston Marathon course during the 2013 bombings. Our team was able to showcase their resilience through an amazing race day feature on Good Morning America,” Tommy shares.

“Villanova’s Special Olympics Fall Festival is a Pennsylvania state-wide event and is the largest student-run Special Olympics in the world. After getting involved with Special Olympics at PVI, I knew I wanted to be a part of Villanova’s festival,” Tommy shares. As a freshman, Tommy served as a

Tommy is motivated by the athletes’ stories. “There is a moment at every Special Olympics event – that everyone who works with individuals with special needs can attest to – where an athlete will support or cheer on an athlete from another team. Their actions are so striking because you

PANTHER TR ACK S winter 2014

changes in my communities and serve others.” don’t see it in many other life moments. It truly speaks to the Special Olympics Oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Tommy believes his time at PVI prepared him for life both professionally and personally. “PVI was the foundation for where I am today for two reasons: writing and community service. From college to working on political campaigns and now to my current job in public relations, writing is an invaluable skill that I honed at Paul VI that has helped me in every aspect of life.” “Paul VI also reinforced the importance of community service. I always seek to make positive changes in my communities and serve others.”

Tommy Zigo ‘09

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Pursuing Full Potential Lauren Ross Hawkins ‘01 ithout a doubt, it was my experience with the Options Program that awakened my interest in pursuing a career in special education,” shares Lauren Ross Hawkins ‘01. “The Options students were always so determined to succeed, whether it be in academics or extracurricular activities. Their love of learning and their pleasure at being a part of the PVI community was contagious. These students taught me so much by example and will always hold a special place in my heart,” Lauren said. In addition to volunteering with the Options Program at PVI, Lauren was a member of the swim team for four years, played lacrosse and ran cross country. In addition to sports, Lauren appreciated Paul VI’s sense of community. “My favorite memories from Paul VI are the lasting friendships I made during my four years, and the students I met and worked with in Options.” After Paul VI, Lauren attended Elon University in North Carolina and majored in Elementary and Special Education. She then completed her Masters of Special Education at George Mason and two years later completed an ABA Certification Program there. She has been a Special Education teacher in the Fairfax County Public School system for 9 years. Lauren currently works at Eagle View Elementary School in Fairfax in the Comprehensive Services Site Program for students with emotional disabilities and autism. She teaches a 4th and 5th grade combination class and is the Special Education Department Chair for the school. Lauren finds satisfaction in helping her students achieve a greater sense of independence. “The most rewarding aspect of working with individuals with special needs is that I am able to present them with opportunities to enhance their learning experience by providing them the tools to help them achieve success both academically and socially. I am especially happy to help them achieve a degree of independence which may not have been possible without accommodations or modifications to their education.”

Lauren Ross Hawkins ‘01

Lauren is motivated to share her knowledge of working with students with special needs with others. “Each child has their own abilities and difficulties, and it is my hope that I can continue to provide the means possible for the students, teachers and caregivers to work together so that each student can reach his or her full potential.”

Ally Esposito ‘08

Taking Steps Forward Ally Esposito ‘08 he Options Program at Paul VI is a wonderful program that broadened my horizons in the field of education. I first was introduced to working with students with a variety of academic needs by volunteering in Options. I really enjoyed my time there and it helped me realize what I wanted to pursue my career in,” shares Ally Esposito ’08.

“I love the students I work with. There are definitely some challenges that come on a day to day basis, but overall I love being able to teach different topics and create a variety of lessons that are tailored towards my students’ needs.” – Ally Esposito ‘08

At Paul VI, Ally was on the swim team all four years and her favorite PVI memories include dressing up and decorating the halls for Spirit Week. In addition to having great memories from sports and social activities, volunteering as a Peer Mentor pointed Ally in the direction of her college major. After Paul VI, Ally completed her undergraduate degree in integrative studies with a concentration in Special Education, and she recently completed her masters in K-12 Special Education. Ally is currently a 5th grade special education teacher for Fairfax County Public Schools. “Most of my students have a learning disability and/or intellectual disabilities. I also work with a wide range of students who are on the autism spectrum. Some of these students display Asperger’s traits, while others have a more severe form of autism that is nonverbal,” Ally shares “I love the students I work with. There are definitely some challenges that come on a day to day basis, but overall I love being able to teach different topics and create a variety of lessons that are tailored towards my students’ needs.” Seeing her students’ achievement is the most rewarding part for Ally. “They can be the littlest successes, but to many of my students it can be a huge step forward.”

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Making a Difference Day by Day

Inspiring Student Growth

Mary Desmarais ‘06

Olivia Hanlon ’08

y first experience with people with special needs was with my cousin who has Down’s Syndrome. After coming to Paul VI, I was provided the opportunity to get to know peers with intellectual disabilities by mentoring in the Options Program,” reflects Mary Desmarais ’06. “I was the President of Best Buddies in its inaugural year at PVI, and was able to expand my knowledge of working with this special population by attending a leadership conference in Indiana the summer between my junior and senior year. During my summers in college I was trained as a counselor and worked for Fairfax County in the Therapeutic Recreation program.” In addition to Peer Mentoring at PVI, Mary was a class officer all four years, a student ambassador, a Mary Desmarais ‘06 member of Campus Ministry, and on the tennis team. Mary’s favorite PVI memory occurred on January 20, 2006 – the triple overtime win versus O’Connell. “I strained a vocal cord and couldn’t talk for a few days after. Jean Cajou, you are still my hero for those shots!” In addition to activities and school spirit, Paul VI helped instill lifelong values that Mary still holds dear. “PVI taught me not only academic lessons that helped me succeed in my higher education, but also helped instill values in me that I have carried into other aspects of my life. PVI wasn’t just a high school to me, it was an experience...a wonderfully crazy, emotional and fantastic experience that I will never forget and am thankful to have had.” “PVI taught me not only academic

lessons that helped me succeed in my higher education, but also helped instill values in me that I have carried into other aspects of my life. – Mary Desmarais ‘06

After Paul VI, Mary completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Scranton. She then attended graduate school at George Washington, and earned her Master’s in Special Education and Transition Services. She is currently a Special Education teacher in Fairfax County, teaching 7th and 8th grade English. Having found her calling, Mary finds working with individuals with special needs extremely fulfilling. “Knowing that what I’m doing is making a difference in kids’ lives helps motivate me. Seeing their progress from the beginning of the year to the end is really incredible.” “I get to see progress every day, multiple times a day, and that is very rewarding. That progress can be small in the day to day, but then at the end of the year it is great to see how far students have come.”

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VI introduced me to the field of special education with the Options Program. I absolutely loved volunteering with the program, and I started considering this work as a potential career during my time at PVI,” shares Olivia Hanlon ’08. In addition to her studies at PVI, Olivia trained with her competitive synchronized swimming club daily outside of school. After graduation, Olivia attended Canisius College in Buffalo, NY and swam on their nationally ranked Division 1 synchronized swimming team. Olivia built on her experiences in PVI Options when choosing her college major. “I first became interested in Special Education when I attended PVI and volunteered with the Options Program. I made great connections with those students and really admired their teachers. I enjoyed talking to the teachers about Special Education and looked forward to my study hall every day so that I could go into the class. I decided to study special education/childhood education in college and then continued on with my Master’s degree in Special Education.” Olivia is currently in her second year as a special education teacher at an elementary school in Houston, TX. Her school is part of Aldine ISD, a Title One District. She currently has 11 students in grades K-4 and teaches Reading, Written Language, and Math. The students in her classes have a wide range of disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, Autism, emotional disturbances, and learning disabilities. Olivia finds her job extremely rewarding. “My students definitely motivate me. There are many days when I let the stress of the job get to me but I try to remember the reasons why I am in this field. I love my students and when it is all said and done, I can honestly say I love what I do.” “The most rewarding part of my job is definitely seeing the growth in my students. Academic growth is one thing, but I love when I see growth in their self-esteem and confidence. I tell my students every day how loved and important they are. It is very rewarding Olivia Hanlon ‘08 to see a student go from not believing in themselves and constantly putting themselves down, to truly believing they are capable and smart. It is a process and sometimes a struggle, but it is so rewarding to see that light in their faces!”

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Learning From Each Other

Achieving Those “Light Bulb” Moments

Nicole Zilberfarb Passarelli ‘03

Sam Moore ‘08

icole Zilberfarb Passarelli ‘03 is currently a 4th/5th grade Special Education teacher in Fairfax County. In her role, she provides inclusion support and pulls small groups of students for remediation, direct instruction, and testing. After Paul VI, Nicole attended Radford University where she earned a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education. After earning her Masters in Special Education from George Mason University, Nicole has worked as an elementary Special Education teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools since 2008. “I went to college to be a general education elementary school teacher, but when I graduated I took a long-term substitute position as a 5th grade Special Education teacher. I fell in love with the students, the position, and realized this was my calling. The principal offered me a full-time position – I gladly accepted and started my Masters in Special Education,” Nicole shares. Nicole reflects on her own school days at Paul VI. “I don’t have just one favorite memory from PVI. I loved all 4 years of high school. I especially love that the best friends I made there are still my best friends today.” In addition to time spent on academics and with friends, Nicole worked at KinderCare every day after school, which fulfilled her love of working with children. Nicole continues to love working with children. “As cliché as it sounds, I love seeing students’ light bulbs go off. I also find that I learn more from that then they probably learn from me – that is very rewarding. My students motivate me the most. I am also motivated by my coworkers – they are amazing teachers and I learn a lot from them.” She believes her time at Paul VI helps her in her vocation as an educator. “I learned a lot about being empathetic and accepting at Paul VI. I had some amazing teachers at PVI who helped me – I took traits from them and that shaped the teacher I am today.”

y biggest motivators are my students. They make me want to come to work every day – to see their faces, hear their jokes, listen to their stories, and teach them new material,” shares Samantha Moore ’08. After Paul VI, Sam attended Radford University. “I remember being so nervous to get to college Sam Moore ‘08 and start the hard classes, but PVI prepared me so well. I was used to using a planner, doing my homework, showing up to classes and PVI even influenced my style a little because I never wore sweatpants to class – the uniform made me want to dress for success,” Sam reflects. Initially, Sam thought she would major in nursing but soon realized it wasn’t for her. She started searching for a new major and met a few professors who encouraged her to try the teaching program. “I ended up falling in love with teaching after my first class and turns out I was pretty good at it!” Sam shares. In choosing her major, Sam was also influenced by a teacher at PVI, specifically her experience reading novels in Mr. Timmins’ English class junior year. “He had a great way of explaining books and showing his passion for reading. I never really liked school before I met him and he was my springboard into teaching.” Sam graduated in 2013 with a Masters in Special Education and a concentration in English. One week before college graduation, she was hired by North Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia. At North Stafford, Sam teaches three classes – English 11, English 12 and Developmental Reading. Both English classes include both Special Education students and General Education students and Sam teaches with a GenEd co-teacher for each. The Developmental Reading class is mostly for 11th and 12th graders who have failed the Reading SOL or who may struggle to pass it as juniors. Sam has hit the ground running and has shined in just a short time at North Stafford. She started a Teacher Running Club and was named New Teacher of the Year in 2014. Sam finds teaching both challenging and fulfilling. “We do have ‘bad’ days but all of my students know they are given a fresh start the next day – even I need that fresh start sometimes,” Sam shares.

Nicole Zilberfarb Passarelli ‘03

“The most rewarding part is the fact that I get to see the ‘light bulb’ moment – when a student finally gets something. Usually that light bulb moment turns into an SOL pass which enables them to graduate. I love seeing my kids’ successes!” PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Little Victories, Great Progress Brittany Abbott ‘07 nowing that I can change someone’s life pushes me to be a better therapist and give 110% to every single patient,” shares Brittany Abbott ’07. During high school at Paul VI, Brittany thought she wanted to be a physical therapist after observing wounded warriors at Walter Reed, but in college at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania she learned about Occupational Therapy. OT seemed to be more her niche as she felt the possibilities in the field were endless. Brittany graduated with a Bachelor’s in Health Science and Masters in Occupational Therapy. She was hired by an inpatient rehabilitation hospital, HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Virginia in Aldie and is now a Clinical Specialist in Neuro-rehabilitation. Brittany works in a 55-bed rehabilitation hospital helping to enhance, modify, and adapt activities of daily living/self-care skills to assist patients to return back to an independent lifestyle, if they are safely able to do so. The hospital sees a variety of diagnoses, such as Stroke, Spinal Cord Injury, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, Acquired Brain Injuries, as well as treating patients after falls, multi-traumas, and various surgeries. Brittany finds her job extremely fulfilling.“It is a great feeling to be excited to go to work and build rapport with someone while guiding their rehabilitation to promote independence and improve their quality of life. It is heartwarming to leave at the end of the day knowing that you have impacted someone’s life in such a positive and significant way. The little victories are what add up

Brittany Abbott ‘07 to great progress that a patient is able to see for themselves,” Brittany reflects. While at Paul VI, Brittany was a member of the Show Choir, a Student Ambassador, and a mentor for Club Ophelia and her experiences in and outside the classroom have stuck with her.“The knowledge that I gained while at PVI gave me a great foundation for the skills that I learned during college and grad school. PVI really instilled values of selflessness, compassion and care, and willingness to help those in need within me, all of which are vital to being an OT. There was a strong focus at PVI to prevent judgment and promote inclusion and advocacy – which has helped me tremendously in my career.”

“Knowing that I can change someone’s life pushes me to be a better therapist and give 110% to every single patient.” – Brittany Abbott ’07

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AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Hard Work Paying Off

The Best They Can Be

Chris Lalande ’06

Danielle Lalande ‘07

was not the most academic student during my time at PVI. If you had told me back then I was going to be a teacher I would have never believed you!” shares Chris Lalande ’06. At Paul VI, Chris played football during his freshman and sophomore years. Over the four years, he created strong relationships he has maintained since graduation. “Most of my closest friends came from those years and I’m still in contact with all of them. They might as well be family at this point.”

y most challenging students are often the ones that motivate me the most. I want to understand them so I can help them as best I can,” shares Danielle Lalande ’07.

“My favorite memory from PVI was graduation – I mean that in a positive way. The experience of graduating was a culmination of all four years of hard work and the many experiences I had. There was a big sense of excitement and accomplishment for me on that day,” Chris shares.

As a student at Paul VI, Danielle Danielle Lalande ‘07 was a member of Student Ambassadors, Spanish Club, Literary Magazine and Junior Math League and also played volleyball sophomore year.

After Paul VI, Chris attended Virginia Commonwealth University and graduated with a B.S. in Psychology.

After PVI, Danielle attended Christopher Newport University and graduated in 2011 with a degree in Psychology. She is currently in graduate school at George Mason University working towards a Masters in Special Education.

Chris did not plan to become a teacher while attending VCU, but after college someone referred him to Fairfax County Public Schools. He applied to be an Instructional Assistant at the elementary school level working with students with emotional disabilities. After two years as an I.A. he decided he wanted to become a teacher. Chris is currently employed with Fairfax County Public Schools as a CAT B Special Education Teacher at the middle school level. He works with Autistic children with multiple low incidence disabilities. He is currently working towards his Masters in Special Education at George Mason.

Chris Lalande ’06

“This job requires a lot of patience and working with the students can be a slow process but to witness all the hard work pay off is hugely motivating.”

Danielle works at Laurel Ridge Elementary school in the Comprehensive Services Site. She teaches 6th grade in a selfcontained class for students with emotional and behavioral disabilities. She has eight students; some go to general education classes for part of the day and some stay with her for the whole day. She teaches students with a variety of things like depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, bipolar disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, and much more. “I teach the same curriculum as the general education classes but we also work on things like social skills, coping skills, and behavior. There is a highly-structured behavior program in my class in which students can earn various things and get certain privileges for good behavior.” Danielle reflects on the preparation she received at Paul VI for her own teaching career. “PVI challenged me and pushed me to work hard. The work ethic I developed at PVI is something I carried with me throughout college and into my career. I had wonderful teachers at PVI who I think of often throughout my own career teaching.”

“This job requires a lot of patience and working with the students can be a slow process but to witness all the hard work pay off is hugely motivating.” – Chris Lalande ’06

Siblings Chris and Danielle Lalande

Danielle finds big satisfaction in the small accomplishments each day. “One of the main things that motivates me in my career is helping my students in any way that I can, big or small. I want my students to become the best people they can be and I will do whatever it takes to help them along the way. I work with a lot of difficult students and if I can get through to them in even the smallest way and help them overcome something – that is success to me.”

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Good in the World

High School Inspiration

Anna Kvartunas ‘08

Mary Kate Cook ‘11

nna Kvartunas is currently a high school Multiple-Disabilities teacher at Lake Braddock Secondary School, where she teaches Math, History, and Life Skills to predominantly 10th and 11th graders. Anna is also the Assistant Varsity Softball Coach at West Springfield High School and currently working toward her Master’s in Special Education: Adapted Curriculum at George Mason. As a PVI student, Anna played on the Varsity Softball team for four years and her favorite high school memory is beating O’Connell in softball her senior year. She also reflects, “My Anna Kvartunas ‘08 experiences in high school taught me to be more independent and to set higher goals for myself. PVI taught me not to be afraid of hard work.” After graduating from Paul VI, Anna attended Wittenberg University, where she played varsity softball all four years and received a B.A. in History. It was during college that Anna discovered her interest in working with individuals with special needs. “I first began working with people with developmental disabilities at Wittenberg, when my softball team volunteered with the Dayton Area Special Olympics Program. After I graduated, I started working as an Instructional Aid for the low incidence special education program at Lake Braddock Secondary.” Anna enjoys her job and the good work she is able to accomplish. “I really love making a difference in these kids’ lives. I’m able to teach them the skills they need to be successful in their lives after high school. The challenge of being able to adapt the curriculum to each student’s individual needs motivates me in my career.”

VI really influenced me to pursue a career in the field of Special Education,” shares Mary Kate Cook ‘11 The PVI Options program gave Mary Kate her start in Special Education. “Peer mentoring opened my eyes to how capable and wonderful people with disabilities are and really inspired me to get into this field. I loved the way that everyone wanted to get involved with the Options program- they genuinely wanted to participate and educate themselves.” In addition to volunteering as a Peer Mentor, Mary Kate was a member of the Friends of Rachel service club and played Varsity Volleyball for four years. For two years, Tasha and Sara, students in the Options program, served as team managers. According to Mary Kate, “They were always such a great help to the team and everyone adored and respected them.” Mary Kate is currently a senior at Radford University earning her Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Since her sophomore year, she has worked as a substitute teacher in Loudoun County and often works as a Special Ed teachers’ assistant. During the past two summers, she has worked as a teaching assistant for a Special Ed extended school year program, a summer school type program. “The summer program helps students with various disabilities maintain their education and social skills throughout the summer. Days are short so we’re able to easily integrate a little bit of learning and a little bit of fun,” she shares. When asked what she finds rewarding about working with individuals with special needs, Mary Kate replies, “Everything.” Mary Kate is also motivated by the stigma sometimes attached to people with disabilities and wants to work to change it. “I think that in today’s society, people are often under-educated about this population. I want to be able to advocate for those who are not as capable of doing so for themselves.”

“It’s also a lot of fun! I love having the ability to do some good in the world.”

“I really love making a difference in these kid’s lives. I’m able to teach them the skills they need to be successful in their lives after high school. The challenge of being able to adapt the curriculum to each student’s individual needs motivates me in my career.” – Anna Kvartunas ‘08

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Mary Kate Cook ‘11

AL UM N I SPO T LI GHTS

Helping Others Dream Big Kenneth Crum ‘96 did not expect that God would take what seemed like a small opportunity, and use it to open so many more doors in my life, allowing me to serve alongside so many special people,” shares Kenneth Crum ’96. Ken never expected to end up in the career field he did. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 2000 with a BS in Management Science and Information Technology. After graduation, he applied for various IT and consulting jobs but when no opportunities presented themselves, he kept searching for the right fit. At the same time, Ken received a referral through his church to apply for a position with a community non-profit company providing services to individuals with disabilities. In July 2000, he was offered a position at ServiceSource in Alexandria, VA as a Corporate Information Specialist, building a company website and overseeing various data management tasks. ServiceSource is a leading “I am thankful for the opportunity to work nonprofit with such wonderful people. They remind disability me daily that God has given us all a set of gifts to use in this life, and it’s our job to use resource organization them for His glory.” with regional – Kenneth Crum ‘96 offices and programs located in nine states and D.C. The organization serves close to 16,000 individuals with disabilities annually through a range of innovative and valued employment, training, habilitation, housing and other support services. ServiceSource directly employs more than 1,600 individuals on government and commercial affirmative employment contracts, making them one of the largest employers of people with disabilities nationwide. Over the course of Ken’s fourteen year career with ServiceSource, he has spent many years supporting employment contracts employing individuals with disabilities, both in the community and in center-based programs. In 2004, Ken received an MBA from George Mason University, which prepared him for an expanded role within the organization. In 2013, Ken was promoted to the role of Executive Director overseeing the Virginia Regional Office, which includes employment, rehabilitation, and day habilitation programs. This past year, the office served over 2,800 individuals with disabilities through these programs in Virginia, Maryland, and D.C.

Kenneth Crum ‘96 Ken’s career path took an unexpected turn, but it is one he finds extremely rewarding. “When I think back to the time of my graduation from Paul VI, I never would have thought that I would be playing a leading role in an organization that is making such an impact for individuals with disabilities across the country. I received a strong educational foundation during my time at Paul VI, preparing me for success in my degree programs at Virginia Tech and GMU. The breadth of education that I have received has provided me with a great skill set for success at a non-profit organization,” Ken reflects. Ken has many positive memories of his high school experience. “I enjoyed my years at Paul VI. I have great memories of Friday night football games, playing freshman football (and subsequently quitting when I realized I didn’t like getting pummeled), and frequenting McDonald’s after school. Additionally, I always remember the commitment of the teachers and the high expectations they set for their students and they prepared me very well for college, and for life.” Every day, Ken helps those with special needs gain a greater sense of independence through employment. “I thoroughly enjoy working with individuals with disabilities. I am rewarded daily as I work to create job opportunities and special programs that provide individuals with disabilities the ability to achieve and dream big.” “I am thankful for the opportunity to work with such wonderful people. They remind me daily that God has given us all a set of gifts to use in this life, and it’s our job to use them for His glory.”

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

AL UM N I S P OT LIGHTS

To Love as Jesus Loved

Celebrating Life Achievements

Maggie Bridges Malcolm ‘05

Caitlin Hanley Cunningham ‘00

don’t think I’m the only PVI alum who appreciates PVI more and more as the years go by – the great friends, school spirit, high expectations from teachers and coaches, foundation in the faith, the strong feel of community. My family feels blessed, and proud, to be a part of it,” shares Maggie Bridges Malcolm ’05. At Paul VI, Maggie played soccer, lacrosse, basketball and ran winter track. She was also a Peer Mentor and a member of several leadership clubs. Maggie says that her interest in working with kids with special needs began at PVI through the Options Program as a Peer Mentor. She then narrowed down her career choice to Occupational Therapy during college when she had a summer job playing with a toddler named Ryan who had autism. “I learned that I could continue (more-or-less) playing with and helping kids like Ryan as an OT. I went to OT school at VCU right after college, and I couldn’t be happier with this career choice.” As an OT, Maggie helps her clients participate in daily activities in the fullest way possible, which for kids includes playing with toys and friends, eating, getting dressed, and paying attention in school. She serves infants, toddlers, school-aged children, adolescents, and their families, seeing an average of five clients per day in their home or the community. “It is so rewarding to see kids grow and develop and make progress. What is even more rewarding is celebrating their newly acquired skills with their parents. Recently a two-year-old boy brought his mom and me to tears (happy ones) when he stood up and started walking around the room. A two-year-old girl who was recently diagnosed with autism is now playing hide-n-seek with her sister, saying ‘Mama,’ and eating at the table with the family. I loved hearing her mom’s feeling of hope when she said to me, ‘I think she’s going to be ok.’”

Maggie Bridges Malcolm ‘05

Maggie’s clients and families continually serve as a source of motivation and inspiration. “Sometimes I struggle to stay motivated if a kid isn’t making much progress and their parents are feeling discouraged- it can be hard when I don’t know how best to help. But I have to take a step back and remind myself that these kids truly are God’s gifts to their families, to me, to everyone. I see how parents enjoy their kids, no matter what their abilities.”

“Especially for kids with more severe physical difficulties, like cerebral palsy, who aren’t able to walk or make clear facial expressions or feed themselves- I imagine them in heaven, with a big smile on their face, running freely to join in the banquet feast. While I am most often motivated by the kids who continue to make improvements, it is these more challenging kids who motivate me in the most important way – to love as Jesus loved.”

PANTHER TR ACK S winter 2014

t is hard to express in words the impact being a peer mentor has had on my life, even in adulthood,” shares Caitlin Hanley Cunningham ’00. Caitlin was one of the first Peer Mentors for the Options Program during her time at PVI. Since graduating, Caitlin has used the skills she learned from her experiences as a Peer Mentor throughout her life. During college, she worked with Special Olympics in Wilmington, North Carolina, and most recently, volunteered for Best Buddies in Fort Lauderdale, organizing the annual Best Buddies Walk. Caitlin is currently Vice President of Chuck Puleri Associates, a Herff Jones Company that provides students in Broward County Florida with graduation regalia and class rings. She reflected on how her experiences as a Peer Mentor still influence her life today.

Caitlin Hanley Cunningham ‘00

“My career allows me to be a part of some of the happiest times in a high schooler’s life, from receiving a class ring, to walking the stage on Graduation Day. Nothing makes me prouder than seeing a student with intellectual disabilities cross the stage at graduation grinning from ear to ear in the graduation regalia I helped fit them for and the crowd cheering loudly.” “I learned first-hand as a Peer Mentor about the struggles that students with special needs face every day. This knowledge makes it that much more special for me to see them celebrate this achievement in life – an achievement that most take for granted.”

“I don’t think I’m the only PVI alum who appreciates PVI more and more as the years go by – the great friends, school spirit, high expectations from teachers and coaches, foundation in the faith, the strong feel of community.” – Maggie Bridges Malcolm ‘05

C A

5 Years

The Class of ‘09 reunited for their 5 year reunion at A-Town in Arlington, Virginia on Friday, July 11, 2014.

Class of ‘09

A: Sarah Harrs, Joanna Gardiner

B: Erin Steele, Joey Greener, Katie Roper C: Matt Richards, Meghann Beamer, Kate Beitel, Joey Greener D: Jacqueline Orsa, Natalie Cowden, Lara Abou-Rejaili, Natalie Fitz, Lauren Madelmayer, Benen O’Brien E: First row: Irwin De Jesus, Lauren Madelmayer, Katie Roper, Erin Steele, Katie Howe, Kate Beitel, Meghan Green, Meghann Beamer. Second row: Benen O’Brien, Sarah Harrs, Natalie Fitz, Mike Chelena, Josh Brown, JJ Chahine, Scott Simmons, Jennifer Spollen, Joey Greener, Matt Richards, Joanna Gardiner

10 Years

Class of ‘04

A: Liz McCarthy, Lindsey Curtin, Megan Neville Joyce B: Erin Hart, Courtney Arzu, Christopher Ferraris

C: Jonathan Gorski, Paul Downs

The Class of ‘04 celebrated their at 10 year reunion on, gt lin Ar in A-Town ay, rd tu Sa on Virginia . 14 20 July 19,

D: Benji Nowak, Jamie Aubrey, Erin Hughes Bonk, Drew Bonk, Andrew Boardman, Mike Chauvin, Erin Kane Nowak E: Zarina Shariff, Jonathan Hollm, Dan Cinalli, Arielle Riley, F: Carrie Zvijac, Kaitlin Neckar, Kate Melmer Desrosiers, Silvia Campana Skirpan, Julie O’Brien G: Samantha Crawford Mikkelson, Katie Sherman Przystup, Liz McCarthy, Kelly Connors

E F

H: Tinisha Mason-Nolan, Annie Desmarais ’08 (Alumni Director), Alexis Amatteti I: Daniel Weber, John Frowert, Joseph Herbert, Jon Gorski, James Van Dao-Vergona J: Cecelia Kern, Rosemary Taico, Crystal Akers Regignano, Lindsey Harrington, Sophia Senyk K: Class of 2004

PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

Calling Members of the Classes of

15 Years

Class of ‘99

‘10, ‘05, ‘00, ‘95 & ‘90! The following reunions will be happening in Summer/Fall 2015:

Class of 2010 – 5 Year Class of 2005 – 10 Year Class of 2000 – 15 Year Class of 1995 – 20 Year Class of 1990 – 25 Year

The Class of ‘99 celebrated their 15 year reunion at Samuel Beckett’s in Arlington, Virginia on Saturday, August 16, 2014.

Reunion committees are now forming! Help to make your class event great! E

Visit www.paulvi.net/reunions for more info and to register online!

A: Meredith McEwen Barton, Kate Shewer Etris, Eleanor McLean Bowling B: Ashley Plumb Tolub, Jason Tolub C: Shauna Ferguson Marvel, John Marvel D: Alicia Cool, Tracie Macleod Sparks E: Mitch Bowling, Eleanor McLean Bowling, Ryan Rauner F: Ampi Alonso, Emilio Alonso, Karen Mahaney Venturini, Mauro Venturini

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s r a e Y 0 2

Class of ‘94 F

The Class of ‘94 celebrated their 20 year reunion at The Columbia Firehouse in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday, October 25th, 2014.

A: Hector Orellana, Amy Ellis, George Davidson,Tracy Stavinoha Davidson, Meghan Rogers, Chris Rogers B: Geoff Gregory, Erin Kappler Kelly, Amanda Setty, Rohit Setty C: Melissa Hish, Jill Milosavich Stuhrke, Dacia Mosso

D: Marlar Chit Tun Vollbrecht, Jenny Hagel, Mike Mulherin, Brian Hogan, Leslie O’Connor Hogan E: Andrew Ellrod, James Nellis F: Lindsey Clark, Mike Rogers G: Jason Maleski, Kate Tomaszewski Maleski, Tim Becker, Bonnie Velazco Criado, Eaton Criado H: Suzanne Petinga Palmer, Jack Perkins I: Karl Wojtkun, Joe Santini, Kylie Santini J: Chris Dusek, Joe Santini

M L

K: James Nellis, Pam Krambuhl Nelson, Karl Wojtkun, Erin Kappler Kelly L: James Nellis, Colleen Curry M: Class of 1994

25 Years

Class of ‘89

The Class of ‘89 celebrated 25 years on Saturday, November 1, 2014 at Samuel Beckett’s in Arlington, Virginia.

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Mike Ludwick ‘87 and Suzy Smallwood Ludwick ’87 are pictured visiting John Jezior ’87 (center). “Mike and I were dropping our daughter off at Bryn Mawr and Jez lives nearby. We visit with him every time we go see our daughter Emily,” shares Suzy

Jen Morse Durham ’93 welcomed her second daughter, Paige, on March 29, 2014. Jen found out she was pregnant with Paige exactly a week before the 20th reunion event for the class of ’93! Paige joins Maeve (age 3.5) and is the 15th grandchild in the Morse family. Jen and her family reside in Ashburn, VA.

Jennifer Mathieu Blessington ‘94 recently released her debut novel, The Truth About Alice, published under her maiden name Jennifer Mathieu. The Truth about Alice was listed on Amazon as a Pick of the Month book. Jennifer went on a book tour out West and also read and had a book signing event in Virginia in July. Jennifer has finished her second book and is now working on her third. She is a middle/high school English teacher and lives in Houston, Texas with her husband and young son. Jennifer is pictured with former PVI English teacher Bev Gilbert who attended the Virginia book signing. 22

Erin Pharao ’00 lives in Nicosia, Cyprus, a small island in the Mediterranean Sea. Both Erin and her husband Manny work at the U.S. Embassy Nicosia. Erin writes, “I have been in Cyprus for 6 years now and my daughter Julianna will be 2 years old in December.” They are pictured with Vice President Joe Biden during his visit to Cyprus.

Velena M. Taylor ‘07 is serving in the Navy. She is pictured on her assigned ship, the USS Cole. Velena is a Bosun’s Mate 3 and her duty station is currently in Norfolk, Virginia.

PJ Worosz ‘03 and his wife, Kristen, had a baby boy, Grayson Philip, on June 3, 2014. The family lives in Fairfax, Virginia.

Allison Opfer Ramirez ’03 and husband Dan welcomed Sienna Mae Ramirez on September 15th 2014. Sienna weighed 7 lbs 1oz and 20.5 inches.

Uniting at UVA James Wiltshire ’10 and Katherine Kondas ‘10 were commissioned and graduated from Virginia Military Institute in May 2014. James was commissioned to the Navy and Katie to Air Force.

Remembering a Devoted Fan As the Washington Redskins got ready to play the Dallas Cowboys on October 27th, PVI faculty and staff wore special VI Man shirts to honor Clarence Boone, a devoted Cowboys fan and member of the PVI maintenance staff, who passed away on December 28, 2013.

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Scott Primeau ‘13 finished his freshman year at Furman University as a starter on the lacrosse team and was named to the All-Freshman Team with the Atlantic Sun Conference.

This fall, PVI College and Career Specialist Lonnell Battle met up with alums at UVA for lunch. Pictured left to right Mary Potter ‘14, Stephanie Ibanez ‘14, Monica Casey ‘13, Kiera Sibbald ‘10, Reilly Sheehy, Zachary Tauscher ‘14, Lindsay Kijewski ‘09, Lonnell Battle and Nicole Cantarelli ‘14.

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Throwback Thursday Alumni Face-Off

Thursday of Spirit Week this year was “Throwback Thursday” and some of our alumni faculty and staff brought out their old uniforms. Pictured left to right are Beth Hrastar Revor ‘90, Tom Opfer ‘96, Eileen Kiley Curren ‘98, Ellen Bower ‘06, Jenny Hodge ‘06, Patti Hinko ‘06 and Annie Desmarais ‘08.

Even though it’s been a while since Charlie Kassis ‘12 & TJ Tutone ‘12 played together for the Panthers, they still play against each other annually at the Johns Hopkins/Catholic University preseason scrimmage. Charlie plays cornerback for the Blue Jays and TJ plays quarterback for the Cardinals.

At their party for senior signees, the Boys Lacrosse team made “Congratulations” cards for two alumni coaches who recently became engaged: Patrick Zanelotti ’04 and Billy Conques ’05. Billy is engaged to PVI alumnus and high school sweetheart, Katie Manley ‘06.

Panther football players faced off on the field again when Catholic played Hampden Sydney. Catholic University’s TJ Tutone ‘12 and Mike Baker ‘14 play for Catholic University and Owen Costello ‘13 plays for Hampden-Sydney.

PVI Alumni and Students Dominate Spanish Mackerel Tournament Four PVI Options alumni, Sarah Capp ‘10, Joe Gittinger ‘13, Tasha Adkins-Blanch ‘11, and Morgan Howard ‘13 teamed up with current PVI students Travis Smith, Caroline Howard, and Catherine Howard to dominate the 6th Annual Lancaster Little League Spanish Mackerel Tournament competed August 23rd in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

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Back at Homeplate Over the summer, Class of 1986 friends Berk Cotter, Scott Cassidy, Mark Woodfine and Matt Ondrof visited Paul VI and their old baseball coach Rich Taylor. Berk writes, “It was fun to get a tour of the school with Rich and catch up!”

Mission Work in Banica Lisa Loman ’08 recently traveled to Banica in the Dominican Republic on a mission trip with St. Charles Borremeo Parish in Arlington. There, she connected with fellow PVI alum Rev. Keith O’Hare ’90, who is currently serving as the pastor of the Banica mission. Lisa writes, “Banica is definitely poor, but filled with so much more love and joy for God than plenty of places in the US. We were able to finish laying concrete for ten houses, build an outdoor patio-like for the town church, and decorate the church with beautiful painted images. I painted the church with images of the Bible and the Eucharist over a chalice for the word of God and Christ. I will always remember this trip and I continue to reflect on my experiences with it. I will continually thank God for my time spent in Banica, the people I met there, and the new friends I made along the way.”

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Baptism Blessings The Forneris family gathered this summer at St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton for the baptism of its two newest members. Pictured are Matthew ‘00, Robert ‘04, John ‘06, Kristen Davidson Forneris ‘06, and Thomas ‘01, and their spouses and children, along with grandparents Jim and Mary Ellen. The sacrament was performed by a close family friend, Rev. John Knapp, from the Bronx, who also officiated at all the family weddings and baptisms.

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Kathleen Berger ’05 married Daniel O’Brien on July 5, 2014 at Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. Kathleen’s brother James Berger ’03 was one of the groomsmen and bridesmaids included Laura Noonan ’05 and Katie Shewmaker Torres ’05. Also in attendance was Ashley Bunce ’05, Megan Bunce ’05, Marie Zapolski ’05, Carrie Palmisano ‘05, Meghan Oliver ’05, Caitlin Oliver Bullough ‘03, Brad McNiff ‘05, Andres Torres ‘05, Billy Conques ‘05, Nick Sutton ‘05 and PVI Head Boys’ Lacrosse Coach, Bob Waters. They celebrated with family and friends at The Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia. Kathleen and Dan now live in St. Louis, Missouri. Currently, Kathleen is the Recruitment Marketing & Strategies manager at Scottrade, Inc. and Dan is in his second year of law school at Washington University in St. Louis.

Rebecca Hoog ‘03 and Christopher Shelton celebrated their May wedding with a relaxed Derby themed reception, greeting friends and family at Sterling Fire and Rescue’s Patton Hall. Guests chatted while enjoying plates of barbeque, danced to a bluegrass band, and took turns posing with props at a photo booth that was an especial hit with the children in attendance. Pictured left to right are Pat Colan ‘03, Matt McDonald ‘03, Dan Donahoe ‘03, Geoff Rixon ‘03, Chris Shelton (Ireton ‘00), Rebecca Hoog Shelton ‘03, Chris Fannon ‘03, Helen Johnson ‘03, Liz Shelton ‘03, and Adrienne Shelton ‘95.

Crystal Akers ’04 married Joel Regignano in November 2013. Joel attended Robinson High School and Crystal and Joel were high school sweethearts. Crystal’s high school best friend Audrey Bly ‘04 was a maid of honor.

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Allison Opfer ’03 married Daniel Ramirez at St. John Neumann in Reston on June 8, 2013, with a reception held at Lansdowne Resort. The ceremony was officiated by former PVI Dean of Academics Father Robert Mancini, OSFS. Allie and Dan currently live in Dallas, Texas.

First row: Astrid Vargas Woltering ’01 (photographer), Stephanie Marcellin ‘04, Emily Noonan Ingalls ‘03. Second row: Connie Gatto, Tom Opfer ’96, Allie Opfer Ramirez ’03, Rachel Zavala ‘03, CJ Capen ’99. Third row: Betty Opfer, Linda Zanelotti, Frankie McGlone, Ginny Colwell, Katie Grim Tinsley ’02, Joan Wang, Debbie Dannemann, Laura Noonan Sheehy ‘05, Katie Cavanaugh Johnson ‘03, Cassandra Sutton Matos ‘03, Tina Francois McDowell ‘03, Debbie Bruen Flores ‘03. Back row: Father Robert Mancini, OSFS , Kevin Ingalls ‘03, Phil Galvan ‘03, Nick Johnson ‘03.

Eileen Kiley ’98 married Steve Curren on July 26, 2014 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church in Springfield, followed by a reception at the Hyatt Fairfax at Fair Lakes. PVI alumni and staff in attendance included Beth Slucher, Dan Burkard, Mary Sullivan-Haller, Abby Esguerra, Peggy Latessa, Chris Desmarais, Annie Desmarais ’08, Megan Mitchell ’99, Lonnell Battle, Tom Opfer ’96, Kevin Kiley ’99, Maureen Kiley ’99, MaryJane Cochrane, Tom Wonder ’04, Colleen Kiley ’04, Tina Roller, Joan Wang, Monica Grimm, Alison Mitchell ’02, Meaghan Marshall Martin ’98, Sara McMahon, Matt Dyson, and Elizabeth Wonder.

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Rachele Fink ‘04 married Charles Jordan Richardson on August 30th, 2014 at the Old Catholic Mission Santa Ines, followed by a reception at the beautiful Sunstone Winery Villa in Solvang, Ca. Rachele’s sisters Justine Fink ‘08 and Nicole Fink Hayden ‘97 were the Maids of Honor, Dana Morona Smith ‘04 was another PVI alum bridesmaid. Rachele and Jordan live in Los Angeles where they are both in the entertainment industry. Rachele is a talent agent at SBV Talent and Jordan is in creative development/ talent relations at VHI.

Pictured left to right are Justine Fink ‘08, Andrew Bonk ‘04, Erin Hughes Bonk ‘04, Cat Boneo ‘04, AJ Bergmann ‘04, Nikki Fink Hayden ‘97, Rachele Fink Richardson ‘04, Charles Jordan Richardson, Steve Hughes ‘04, and Michael Chauvin ‘04. Not pictured: Jessie Woo ‘08 and Becky Woo Alexander ‘08.

The Fink family, friends, and PVI alumni danced and enjoyed the weekend festivities, including Mr. and Mrs. Zanelotti and their son Patrick Zanelotti ’04.

Maggie Bridges ‘05 married Colin Malcolm on June 7, 2014 at Our Lady of the Seas Catholic Church in Buxton, NC in the Outer Banks. Their reception was held at the Koru Beach Klub in Avon, NC.

Pictured left to right are Charles Jordan Richardson, Patrick Zanelotti ‘04, Rachele Fink ‘04, and Michael Chauvin ‘04.

Katie Doherty ‘05 served as Maid of Honor and Kelley Hardgrove ‘05 and Laura Culver ‘05 were bridesmaids. Matron of Honor Casey Bridges Costello ‘07 Facetimed the wedding with husband Zach Costello ‘07 from the hospital; Casey gave birth to son Landon Costello the following day.

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LOCK All462 Classes Winter Reunion FOX HOLLOW LANE PALMYRA VA 22963 Thursday, January 8th

7-10 PM PJ Skidoos 9908 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax

Rebecca Neville ‘06

Rev. Keith O’Hare ’90

Officer Sean McGlone ‘88

LOCK 462 FOX HOLLOW LANE PALMYRA VA 22963

IN M EM ORIAM The Paul VI Catholic High School Community extends its prayers and condolences to the relatives of alumni, students, parents and friends of the school who have passed away recently.

Mr. Lou Frank, father of Chesty Frank, PVI P.E. Department Mrs. Mary Carol Kennedy, grandmother of Abigail Esguerra, PVI Director of Advancement Mrs. Irene Draim, mother of Jeff ’97 Barbara Cusato, mother of Jennifer ’02, Joe ‘97 and John ‘94 Laura Isabel Humphrey and Emmett Rylander Humphrey, wife and unborn son of Brian Humphrey ‘98 Mr. Robert Joseph Broderick, father of Ellen Horan, PVI P.E. Department John (Jay) Ferlita, brother-in-law Donald La Velle, PVI Finance Director. Nicole “Niki” Crahan, PVI Spanish teacher from 1992-2004 Miriam Longo, mother of former Campus Ministry assistant and alum, Deb Longo True ’89

Nick Carpenter ‘13 Danielle Kijewski ‘07

Brendan Muha ‘12 Fr. Nicholas Barnes ‘03

Alumni VIsitors Share Experiences with PVI Students Many alumni have returned to share their knowledge and experiences with the PVI community so far this school year. Fr. Nicholas Barnes ‘03 spoke to religion classes on October 6th about his experience at PVI, his time at The University of Virginia and his life as a priest at St. Mary’s in Alexandria. Officer Sean McGlone ‘88 spoke to Mr. Gary Underhill’s Driver’s Education classes on October 28th about safe driving tips throughout Fairfax County. Danielle Kijewski ‘07 spoke to U.S. Government and History classes as part of the Library Speaker Series on November 4th about her federal internships with the U.S. Mission to the United Nations and Office of the First Lady and her work experiences in the Office of Presidential Correspondence and the Department of State. Brendan Muha ‘12 and Nick Carpenter ‘13 came to speak to prospective families at this year’s Open House on Sunday, November 2nd. Muha and Carpenter spoke about how well PVI prepared them for college.” Fr. Keith O’Hare ’90 celebrated school-wide Mass for the Paul VI community on November 11th. His homily centered on Veteran’s Day, Hunger Action Week and the work being done in Arlington Diocese’s mission parish in Banica, Dominican Republic where he is currently is living and serving. Rebecca Neville ‘06, who is currently pursuing a Juris Doctorate and Master’s in Social Work at Catholic University, came to PVI on November 11th to speak to students who had follow up questions from a presentation on teen sex trafficking. Rebecca has worked with various organizations over the past two years to serve survivors of sex trafficking in the criminal justice system.

Interested in a VIsit? Email Annie Desmarais ’08 at alumni@paulvi.net.

Mrs. Estelle Hurley, mother of Evelyn Hurley ‘91 Mario Palma, father of Claudia Palma Morgan ‘87 and grandfather to David ‘04 and Mark ‘08 Tufano. Mrs. Helen Underhill, mother of Gary Underhill, PVI P.E. Department and Special Olympics coach 28

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Stay Connected! Be sure to find us on social media so you can get the most up to date alumni and PVI news!

Facebook: Paul VI Catholic High School Alumni Association Follow us on Twitter: @PVIAlumni

LinkedIn: “Paul VI Catholic High School Alumni” Instagram PaulVIAlumni

I joined the Alumni Association Board because I want to continue Paul VI’s tremendous success and give back to the school that has meant so much to Michael Ciatti ‘88 me and my family… As a member of Paul VI’s third graduating class, the hard work and sacrifice of the teachers, coaches and parents in those early years taught me the importance of working with others to build something special – Paul VI would not be what it is today without this amazing work and sacrifice and I want to help Paul VI continue its impressive success by working to engage all alumni to stay connected with and help Paul VI continue to thrive.

Get to know the PVI Alumni Board! The Board of the PVI Alumni Association, established in the summer of 2014, is made up of active, engaged alumni ranging from ’88 to ’09 who are committed to working with our 6,000+ alumni to better engage each other and support Paul VI Catholic High School as a whole. If you are interested in learning more about the board and how to get involved, please contact Annie Desmarais ’08 at adesmarais@paulvi.net.

Rohit Setty ‘94 I hope to contribute as much as I gained from PVI. Coming back to PVI as the first Alumni Chairperson is such an honor and responsibility that I and the board welcome with open arms and hard work. Steve Elena ‘93 As many alumni will say, PVI had such an amazing impact on us. For me this impact shaped the man who I would become later in life and how I would carry myself amongst my friends, family, and colleagues. I welcome all alumni to join us and be part of a new tradition: The Paul VI Alumni Association.

Brendan Armstrong ’04

Lauren Goldstein ’08

Patrick Armstrong ’08

I joined the PVI Alumni Board in order to support the school that gave me a foundation for the rest of my life. I believe that it’s important to give back to the entire Paul VI community, including past, current and future students. – Lauren Goldstein ‘08 I will always cherish my time at PVI as a time of formation and growth “in grace and wisdom.” I hope that my work Lindsay Kijewski ‘09 with the Alumni Association board will ensure that all past, present, and future Panthers will always be as proud as I am to call Paul VI home.

It is truly an honor to serve on the PVI Alumni Board. I consider my time there as the most formable Casey Bridges Costello ’07 years of my young life. PVI’s motto, to “grow in grace and wisdom” has been a driving force in my life beyond my PVI years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference as a member of the Alumni Board. PA U L V I C AT H O L I C H I G H S C H O O L

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