FOCUS magazine For Alumni, Families and Friends of St. Francis High School
FEBRUARY 2021
Back to School | Fall 2020
PRESERVING THE ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE Returning to school during a pandemic
What's Inside Fall Highlights Advancement News Alumni Spotlight February 2021 | 1
Section Title
2 | Focus Magazine
TABLE OF CONTENTS President's Letter....................................... 2 School News................................................. 3 Spartan Activities................................... 3 Spartan Achievements............................ 4 Faith & Service.......................................... 5 Performing & Visual Arts...................... 6 Spartan Athletics................................... 8 Cover Story.................................................. 10 Alumni News................................................ 14 Alumni Spotlight..................................... 14 Alumni Updates....................................... 16 Advancement News..................................... 18 Giving ........................................................ 18 2020 Spartan classic............................... 20
Focus Magazine is published twice a year by the Communications Office at St. Francis High School. We welcome your letters, story ideas, and photos. Contact the editor: Krystal LaMantia klamantia@sfhscollegeprep.org 630-668-5800 x1144
Stay Connected: @StFrancisHS @SFHS_Spartans @sfhsspartans St. Francis High School Wheaton, IL
President's Council Betsy V. Ackerson Raeann Huhn Ron Darin Fr. John Honiotes Maureen Isphording Steve Nache Advancement Office Steve Nache Danielle Costello Becky Feltes ’97 Fischesser Peg Kopec Debbie Quirk Alumni Board Joe Buchholz ‘84 Ken Dillenkoffer ‘98 J.J. Albarran ‘86 Bobbi Bergeron ’62 Aschauer Maureen Carroll ‘62 Boyle Colleen Carroll ‘87 Clark Rob Cleveland ‘90 Kellie Donlevy Topher Garcia ‘97 Patrick Holman ‘12 Erin Boyle ’89 Hurley Maribeth Treis ‘77 Kerr Michele Danaher ’79 Sittig Amy Cleveland ‘89 Verbeke Stacey Kammes ‘89 Wanshek
Contact Us: St. Francis High School College Preparatory 2130 W. Roosevelt Road Wheaton, IL 60187 (630) 668-5800 sfhscollegeprep.org February 2021 | 1
President's Letter Dear Spartan Family, Amidst the backdrop of perhaps the most challenging year in modern history, St. Francis High School continues to focus on the eternal virtues of faith, hope, and love as we carry out our mission. As you know, school has been in-person in a hybrid-setting since August. Despite the obstacles this presents, we remain confident that being together in person as much as possible is the best way to accomplish our goals. At the outset of the school year, we chose as our theme for the year: “Rooted”— a reminder that it is when we are firmly rooted in truth and God’s love, we can do all that is asked and required of us. Our guiding scripture verse comes from the prophet Jeremiah: Blessed are those who trust in the Lord; the Lord will be their trust. They are like a tree planted beside the waters that stretches out its roots to the stream: it does not fear heat when it comes, Its leaves stay green; in the year of drought it shows no distress, But still produces fruit. You will see as you read through this issue of FOCUS, that at St. Francis High School we are making the most of the situation. The four components of our mission continue to inspire and guide us—developing students spiritually, academically, physically, and socially. We are maintaining as many opportunities and traditions as possible for our students—with great doses of creativity thrown in. For the opportunity to learn, teach, and grow together we are extraordinarily grateful. This year, in particular is one in which we all can be proud to be Spartans! God bless you and Go Spartans!
Dr. Betsy V. Ackerson President
SPARTAN FAST FACTS 675 Enrollment
27
Average ACT score
2 | Focus Magazine
Microsoft Showcase School 1:1 Mobile Learning
DAILY
Mass, prayer, Religion classes
71% Faculty with advanced college degrees
13:1
Student: Teacher Ratio
SPARTAN ACTIVITIES While COVID safety concerns limited the activities and clubs available for students, a host of offerings created opportunities for connection and discovery. Bass Fishing Club
Arts & Crafts Club
Culinary Club
Student Ministry Team
Math Team
SADD Club
Homecoming Films on the Field
Homecoming Week
February 2021 | 3
SPARTAN ACHIEVEMENTS
School News
National Merit Scholarship Program The National Merit Scholarship Corporation recognized several students from the Class of 2021 for their incredible academic achievements. Semifinalists (top left): Aiden B. and John A. Commended Students (left): Margaret B., Owen F., Katherine L., Zachary M., and Andrew Y.
Breakthrough Challenge The remarkable group of 15 Breakthrough Prize Foundation Challenge finalists (of 5,600 original world-wide applicants) includes St. Francis High School student Gianni P. ’21 for his video entry on the topic of dark matter. The Breakthrough Challenge Prize winner will be announced in March 2021.
Perfect SAT Emery C. ‘22 scored a 1600 on the SAT. About 2.2 million students take the test each year and less than 1% get a perfect score. The average score in IL is 1011.
Microsoft Showcase School: 4th Year In a Row! The Microsoft Showcase School designation recognizes excellence in demonstrated student outcomes resulting from commitment to educational transformation. In addition, Mrs. Mary McCarthy, Mathematics Department Chair/Teacher, received Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert certification which recognizes global educator visionaries who use technology to pave the way for their peers for better learning and student outcomes.
Meet the newest staff and faculty members: Steve Nache, Vice President for Advancement
Steve Zlatic, Religion Teacher
Ron Darin, Director of Finance and Operations
Faith Pak, English Teacher
Tim Martens, Technology Integration Specialist
Krystal LaMantia, Assistant Director of Communications
Fr. John Honiotes, Vice President for Mission and Chaplain Danielle Mantia, World Languages Teacher 4 | Focus Magazine
Danielle Costello, (not pictured) Manager of Special Events/ Executive Assistant to the President
FAITH & SERVICE Faith Offerings Each morning Mass with Fr. John Honiotes is held in the Saint Clare Chapel and Confession is available every Monday and Tuesday afternoon during the Activity Period.
Outdoor Liturgies The first all-cohort masses of the year were celebrated on October 5 & 6 to honor the feast of our patron, Saint Francis of Assisi, with students, faculty, and staff gathered on the new Spartan blue field for the outdoor liturgies.
Retreats Enhanced health and safety protocols allowed students to participate in annual retreats furthering their relationship with God and one another.
Service Although the pandemic has caused the need for adjustments to the Christian Service Program at St. Francis High School, students still found creative ways to contribute to the community through direct service, indirect service, and/or education and advocacy.
February 2021 | 5
PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS
SchoolNews
Performances COVID couldn't stop Spartans from performing! Convinced the show must go on, students took their performances outdoors and online. Campus grounds served as performance stages. Livestream broadcasts enabled audiences to view performances from a safe distance. Creative production and additional safety measures allowed for memorable experiences.
OCT 2-3
ILMEA District 9 Honors The Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA) named Kaitlyn C. ‘21, Caroline D. ‘21, Sam C. ‘22, and Linda C. ‘22 to the ILMEA District 9 Honor Choir, Tyler S. '21 to the Honor Jazz Band, and Tim K. '23 to the Honor Band. Sam and Linda were also named to the ILMEA District 9 All-State Chorus.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream The St. Francis High School Theatre Department transformed campus grounds to create an hour-long performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
OCT 4
Illinois 6th District Congressional Art Award Recipient Gigi S. '21, won the Congressional Art Competition for her piece, titled ‘Quilled Portrait.’ The piece is hanging in the Cannon Tunnel, which is one of the most traveled corridors in all of Washington D.C. Gigi's artwork will be showcased in the U.S. Capitol for a full year! 6 | Focus Magazine
Feast of Saint Francis Concert Feast of Saint Francis Rock Concert Music Ensemble celebrated the Feast of Saint Francis with a socially distanced performance on the baseball field.
OCT 9
Marching Band Performance
Marching Band Performance The Marching Band closed Homecoming week with a performance on the field for a small in-person audience and Instagram Live.
OCT 21
Fall Choral Concert St. Francis High School Choral Program performed their first virtual concert singing sacred music with hopeful text.
Fall Choral Concert
DEC 4-5
"A Christmas Carol" The 3rd annual production of the Christmas classic featured two separate casts. In accordance with COVID safety protocols, performances were available via real-time livestream and drive-in movie experience.
"A Christmas Carol"
A Christmas Choral and Band Concert Four choirs and four bands assembled for an evening of music and giving with over 130 students performing in the livestream concert supporting Neighborhood Food Pantries.
DEC 13
February 2021 | 7
A Christmas Choral and Band Concert
School News
SPARTAN ATHLETICS Fall Sports Wrap-Up Boys Cross Country Metro Suburban Conference Champions IHSA Regional - 2nd place IHSA Sectional - 2nd place (7) All-Conference runners: Luke Orwig ‘21, Sam King ‘21, Chris Covone ‘22, Chris Spahn ‘22, Nate Rodriguez ’22, Andrew Hernandez ’23, Daniel O’Connell ‘23 Girls Cross Country Metro Suburban Conference - 3rd place IHSA Regional - 4th place IHSA Sectional - 6th place (2) All-Conference runners: Alyssa Falco ‘23, Leann Ringsrud ‘23 Boys Golf Metro Suburban Conference - 2nd place IHSA Regional - 2nd place IHSA Sectional - 3rd place IHSA Regional Co-Champion: Zach Mulhearn ‘21 (3) All-Conference golfers: Zach Mulhearn ‘21, Danny Rice ‘22, Kory Carlson ‘22 Girls Golf Metro Suburban Conference Champions IHSA Regional - 2nd place IHSA Sectional - 2th place IHSA Regional Individual Champion: Katherine Lemke ‘21 IHSA Sectional Hole-In-One: Katherine Lemke ‘21 (4) All-Conference players: Cameron Marr ’21, Katherine Lemke ‘21, Sarah Grivetti ’22, Emmy Hollarbush ‘24 Girls Swimming Metro Catholic Aquatic Conference - 6th place Girls Tennis Metro Suburban Conference - 2nd place IHSA Sectional - 4th place IHSA Sectional - 2nd place Doubles team: Elen Ryson ‘23/Maddie Hoden ‘23 (6) All-Conference players: Maggie Breyne ’21, Tanya Masnyk ‘21, Bryn Carroll ‘22, Nora Los ‘22, Nora Shannon ‘22, Elen Ryson ‘23
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VIEW THE FALL SPORTS PROGRAM
Winter Sports Update* As of November 20, 2020, all Illinois High School Association (IHSA) sports were paused. On Wednesday, January 13, 2021, the IHSA Board of Directors announced that all IHSA sports not operating under an official IHSA season calendar may begin to conduct contact days as soon as they are allowable per Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) mitigations and local school guidance. On Wednesday, February 3, 2021, mitigations were moved to Phase 4 for Region 8 which includes St. Francis High School. Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan allow all risk levels of IHSA sports to begin playing competitive games. With Phase 4 guidelines in place, the St. Francis High School Boys Basketball team opened the winter sports season Friday, February 5, 2021. The winter sports season includes Boys and Girls Basketball, Cheerleading, Dance, and Boys Swimming. Contact days for spring sports, Football, Girls Lacrosse, Boys and Girls Volleyball and Boys Soccer are currently underway with the season set to begin in April. *As of February 8, 2021
National Signing Day The following student-athletes signed their National Letters of Intent to play collegiate sports. Max M. ’21 (Baseball) Loras College Keith “KJ” G. ’21 (Volleyball) Purdue University Fort Wayne Kevin S. ’21 (Volleyball) McKendree University Annika N. ’21 (Softball) Minnesota State University Moorehead Gigi S. ’21 (Gymnastics) Western Michigan University Abby S. ’21 (Gymnastics) Western Michigan University Tyler D. '21 (Football) Pennsylvania State University Tommy R. ‘21 (Football) Illinois State University Additional student-athletes committing to collegiate sports during National Signing Days on February 3, 2021 and April 14, 2021 will be recognized in the next issue of FOCUS magazine.
February 2021 | 9
Cover Story
BACK TO SCHOOL FALL 2020 PRESERVING THE ST. FRANCIS HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE When COVID-19 brought the world to a halt in early 2020, no one could imagine the series of events that would ensue. Families and businesses facing economic hardship. A summer of civil unrest. A contentious presidential election. Amid the turmoil, our Spartan community remained rich in faith, steadfast and committed to the students and families of St. Francis High School. The St. Francis High School experience is unlike any other. Defined and shaped by human interaction with a longstand10 | Focus Magazine
ing commitment to educating the whole person. Reopening for the 2020-2021 school year was not merely a desire, it was critical to fulfilling the SFHS mission. After spending much of the spring and summer seasons apart, students, staff and faculty joyfully reported to campus on August 24 to begin the 2020-2021 academic school year. While many local schools remained closed to in-person learning, St. Francis High School reopened in the Hybrid School Setting, allowing for the unique learning experience
only found at St. Francis High School. Spartans arrived for in-person instruction among a variety of health and safety procedures implemented into their daily routine. Applying both a traditional and non‐traditional (E-Learning) school environment, the hybrid model supports a variety of configurations including different rates of occupancy along with synchronous and asynchronous learning. Students are divided into two cohorts. All attend a full day of in-person instruction twice a week.
“
...our kids truly missed being at the school every day and couldn’t wait to get back to in-person classes... classes..." The out-of-school cohort follows instruction provided by their teachers for either synchronous or asynchronous learning. During a five-day week, each Wednesday the entire student body participates in full synchronous 8-period E-Learning known as Spartan Day. The Hybrid School Setting presents a stronger level of preparedness in the event of a school campus closure and an additional opportunity for campus cleaning. “High school can be a tough time for kids...especially in today’s society and with all the things they are exposed to.
The culture at St. Francis and the support the kids receive both from their friends and the staff make even the tougher times easier to handle,” said Mr. and Mrs. Hansen, St. Francis High School parents. “As an example, during the COVID pandemic, our kids truly missed being at the school every day and couldn’t wait to get back to in-person classes with their peers and teachers. We think this is the ultimate testament to what St. Francis has built.”
continued on next page
Pictured opposite page:
‘Here We Go!! Spartans’ sign created by Mr. Page, Religion teacher and Pastoral Ministry Team member, welcomed students during the first week of school.
Pictured this page:
(Top) Mathematics teacher, Mrs. Lynch, instructs students sychronously during E-Learning Spartan Day using Microsoft® Teams. (Bottom left) Freshman students at their lockers on the first day of school. (Bottom right) Mrs. Anderson takes Mr. Lewis' temperature as part of enhanced safety measures in perparation of the first week of school.
February 2021 | 11
Cover Story Aside from the obvious adjustments made to the schoolday, faculty and staff – even students – developed creative ways to sustain some sense of normalcy. When many fall sports were postponed, strength and conditioning opportunities and 'contact days' offered students an outlet to remain active. As students yearned for connection with classmates in opposite cohorts, they created an online messaging system to engage in conversation and assisted in developing a social media campaign to celebrate Homecoming Week. While additional restrictions were placed on group gatherings, the Performing and Visual Arts faculty opted for solutions that not only provided opportunities for students to perform but would enable audiences to enjoy their performances at a safe distance. The baseball outfield was transformed into a woodsy backdrop illuminated by stunning lights for the fall production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Livestream broadcasts of the Christmas concert and A Christmas Carol allowed families to watch performances from home. The annual production of
12 | Focus Magazine
A Christmas Carol was also projected on the outside wall of the Kuhn Cultural Arts Center creating a drive-thru movie experience for audience members. Students deepened their relationship with God through annual retreats. Through a variety of restrictions, students continued their St. Francis path, engaging in Christian service by giving more of themselves despite difficult circumstances. The first all-cohort outdoor mass upheld St. Francis High School tradition, bringing the school together in faithful celebration. “Our liturgies provide a great opportunity to gather together and celebrate the abundant gifts that God has given us,” says Mr. Michael Page, Religion teacher and Pastoral Ministry Team member. “All-school mass at St. Francis is beautiful because it is all about sharing and generosity—God has shared with us, Christ gives his body and blood, we give our talents and our energy through gathering, music, storytelling, and serving one another, then we are nourished and sent out to share ourselves with the world. Our liturgies are a joyful expression of God’s presence in who we are, all that we do, and all that we have yet to be and become.” As the prayer of Saint Francis our patron says, where there is doubt, faith. It is in that faith that we continue forward.
Stay in touch with your classmates with the new SFHS Alumni Network • • • • • •
Share events and photos Discover alumni close to you Post and apply for job/internship opportunities Mentor current students or fellow alumni Stay current with what's happening at SFHS And much more!
Joining the SHFS Alumni Network is easy!
VISIT: ALUMNI.SFHSCOLLEGEPREP.ORG
Create your profile via Facebook, LinkedIn or Email
Alumni Mentors Needed We are looking for alumni mentors in Medicine, Law Entrepreneurship/Business, and Engineering who would welcome a student/young alum to shadow you at work for a day. For more information contact Director of Alumni Relations, Becky Fischesser at bfischesser@sfhscollegeprep.org. February 2021 | 13
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
Alumni News
Four alumni share how their St. Francis High School experience played a role in their professional career.
BRIAN BUSCH ’88
Brian's artwork (above middle & right) is currently displayed in Tia Holinger's home.
What is your current profession? Freelance Illustrator. Recent work includes illustrations for the Los Angeles Magazine and several storyboards including for the tv show "ID Investigation" on Discovery Channel and ads for Dick’s Sporting Goods, State Farm, and Lowe’s. How did your experience at SFHS inspire you or set a foundation for your career? I was very fortunate to have Tia Holinger and John MACKENZIE MURNANE '04 GRODECKI What is your current profession? President, The Murnane Companies, 4th generation family manufacturing business. How did your experience at SFHS inspire you or set a foundation for your career? I had an extremely positive experience attending St. Francis. The familial, supportive environment and Catholic education I received are bedrocks of my adult life. I had many favorite and impactful teachers at St. Francis, so I won't name anyone specifically. However, English was my favorite subject in high school because of the passionate teachers I was fortunate enough to have, and the reason I decided to minor in English in college. I continue to have a passion for writing in my spare time. Sports at St. Francis had a very significant impact on my life, and I believe I am still seeing the benefits of an athletic foundation. The coaches, team bonding, and athletic success fostered my leadership skills, discipline, and ability to work well with others. I know this has had an overall impact on my ability to overcome challenges and be a leader in business. 14 | Focus Magazine
Schuller in school, Tia as a teacher and John as a fellow artist (John started teaching Freshman religion when I was a sophomore, so I never had him as a teacher). On top of being my art teacher, Tia also introduced me to her father, a giant in the field of model making, and John introduced me to the world of amazing illustrators (and really good music). There was no internet at the time, so they were my Google. View Brian's work here at www.brianbuschstudio.
JAMI JURICH ’08 What is your current profession? I work in public relations at Carnegie Hall in New York City. How did your experience at SFHS inspire you or set a foundation for your career? I know with certainty that I would not be where I am today without the education SFHS provided me and without the life-long Spartan friendships that have been a source of support through so many major changes. My decisions to pursue careers in journalism and now public relations were due in no small part to the English teachers who helped me find my voice as a writer. Teachers like Mrs. Lyzinski and Ms. Pratscher challenged and encouraged me and never accepted anything less than my best work. In Ms. Pratscher’s case, her encouragement extended beyond the classroom as my dance coach, and I still carry with me the work ethic, focus, and resilience I learned from her in practice. My many hours in the theatre and band rooms with Ms. Brady, Mrs. Schroeder, and Mr. M helped me develop my love of the arts, which ultimately led me to Carnegie Hall. I think of Mrs. Doane and Mrs. Holinger each time I pick up a pencil or paintbrush to create (it has been my pandemic hobby and the thing that has kept me sane all these months). And when I was teaching, I tried to model my classroom after teachers like Mr. Harper, Mr. Reist, Profé Brand, and so many more who created safe spaces for me to learn. When I was teaching economics, I even adapted a project I had done in Mr. Lynch’s class! In each part of my journey, the through-line has been my faith, one that is stronger because teachers like K.Ras, Mr. Page, Mr.
Malouf, Dr. Mercadante, Mrs. Kopec, and Mr. Schuller helped me to lay that foundation and emphasized the importance of character. Some of these teachers never had me in their classroom, but they still managed to have a lasting impact on my life, which I think is a testament to the community at SFHS. As recently as this past summer, Merc and I reconnected and had some really reaffirming conversations that challenged my thinking and shaped my growth, despite the fact that I’ve been out of school for more than a decade. It is such a gift to know that we always have a home at St. Francis, even when we have been out of school for over a decade. And it is because of the faith-based education I received at St. Francis that I have been able to trust God and change course so many times in pursuit of what excites me. I am forever grateful that I was given the knowledge, skills, and endless support that have led me to this point. I know the Spartan family will continue to play an important role in my life, no matter where the journey takes me next.
JOSEPH GIAMBERDINO '11 What is your current profession? I currently work as the Outreach Coordinator for a utility consumer advocacy nonprofit called Citizens Utility Board (CUB). In 2017 I left the U.S. to fulfill a then-lifelong goal, to serve in the Peace Corps. I worked as a Youth Development Facilitator in a rural community called Junín, Perú, nestled 13,600 feet up in the Andes Mountains. I spent my service (20172019) partnering with the local municipality, and the Peruvian National Park Service to teach high-school students leadership and environmental stewardship skills. I am also currently pursuing a Master of Arts (MA) in Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University, concentrating in Global Policy. How did your experience at SFHS inspire you or set a foundation for your career? St. Francis gave me a well-rounded and holistic education, and served as the foundation of my career endeavors. While I was undoubtedly given the practical tools to succeed during my time at Francis, I also developed and cultivated a number of traits, such as
empathy, that inform my work through the present day. In my current role as a consumer advocate, I apply the skills I learned at St. Francis with the goal of seeking to understand the difficulties that people and communities face, and promote equitable solutions to systemic problems. My time at Francis also helped to develop my critical thinking skills, which are important for any career field that one may choose to enter, and have proved invaluable to my work in research, policy and outreach.
February 2021 | 15
ALUMNI UPDATES
Alumni News
We want to hear from you! Whether it be a new address, a promotion or new job, a new addition to your family, or simply sharing how your SFHS experience equipped you to be a light in this world, we want to hear about it. Your updates are valuable because they allow us to keep you connected and share with future Spartans the impact of a St. Francis High School education. Please submit any news to Director of Alumni Relations, Becky Feltes ’97 Fischesser at bfischesser@sfhscollegeprep.org. Jay Holinger ’08 owner and designer of Inn Studio, LLC specializing in landscape design, organizing, adventures and photography, also leads the Bass Fishing Club at SFHS.
Kate Roback '13 Jelinek received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Northwestern University this year. Kate and her husband Matt got married September 19, 2020.
Lillian Rodriguez ’17 is one of 48 finalists for the 2021-2022 Luce Scholars Program.
In Memoriam (List as of August 1, 2020 December 31, 2020)
Alumni: Cynthia Bane ‘61 Jordan DeFrank '14 Frank Koykar ‘61 Stephanie "Stacey" Green '91 Olivarez Kirby Wolf ‘67 Family & Friends: Robert Barnhisel Barbara Jean Doane Thomas Geary Gary Gilroy Rev. Gregory Green, C.S.C. Tom Masterson Robert (Bob) Russo Doris Theriault
Madison Brewster ’16 (not pictured) graduated Summa Cum Laude from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She will be attending University of Illinois Chicago School of Dentistry.
The Luce Scholars Program is a nationally competitive fellowship program launched by the Henry Luce Foundation in 1974 to enhance the understanding of Asia among potential leaders in American society. The program provides stipends, language training, and individualized professional placement in Asia for 15-18 Luce Scholars each year. This year, the program received over 170 applicants and will select 18 scholars in late February.
Dr. Molly Holinger ‘10 is a visiting assistant professor of Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurial Thinking in the Farmer School of Business at Miami University. Read Molly's recent article.
Lillian is currently a senior at the University of Notre Dame studying Civil Engineering. She is also a Clare Boothe Luce Scholar. Alex Schmidt ’18 serves on the Student Government Executive Board at Marquette University as the Program Vice President. She is also a safety intern at Aurora Sinai Medical Center, the Director of New Member Education at her sorority Pi Beta Phi and involved with President Active Minds, a mental health awareness organization. Alex is majoring in Biomedical Science in order to pursue a career in Healthcare Administration. 16 | Focus Magazine
Keep an eye out for Spartans at the 2021 Summer Olympics! Jeff Jendryk ’14 Men’s USA Volleyball Team Kelsey Robinson ’10 Women’s USA Volleyball Team Erin Virtue ’01 Coach, Women’s USA Volleyball Team
Emily Dziengel '20, Olivia Callahan '20, Emma Donlevy '20, Nicky Pellicane '20, Aidan Gardner '20, Megan Kruse '20 returned to SFHS for Theatre Day. Alex (Groom) & Jess Stefely ’13 King (Bride) SFHS Alumni Bridesmaids: Jamie Stefely '09 Casey, Michelle McLaughlin '13, Ally Mastroianni '13, Elizabeth Clare '14 SFHS Groomsman: Ben Stefely ‘08
Flynn Gill (Sean & Erin Webb '05 Gill)
Emily Loughman ’14 NFL cheerleader for the Indianapolis Colts and also first grade teacher.
Riley Quinn Payne (Amanda Antolik '14 Payne)
Alex '06, Lea & Zara Boler McKenna Gracie Lynch (Michael Lynch '05)
Navolio Family 2020 Drew, Meg Rigney '03, Nora (4), and Nolan Franklin born on June 29, 2020.
Rocco, Grace Polzin '09 and Amelia Motto
Megan Lynch '07 Nagel (Bride) SFHS Bridesmaids: Emily Webb '07 Buhr, Meg Chrisman '07, Molly O'Toole '07 Taylor, & Katie Kilrea '07
Colin Rosmonowski (Ryan '07 & Kelly Rosmonowski)
LT Caroline French '13, USN USS DECATUR (DDG 73) San Diego Naval Base
Allen James III (A.J. '06 & Lindsey Rostan '06 Palash)
Abigail and Jacob Marshall (Nate & Margie Rosmonowski '05 Marshall)
Planning your 2021 Reunion? Missed your 2020 Reunion? Let us know and we can help! It is our great pleasure to host class reunions. Some classes choose to convene off site for dinner or to meet at the home of a classmate; others request help with a party in the Slantdome with a school tour. Whatever your preference, we encourage you to contact us so that we can assist you in any way we can – with contact information for classmates, catering recommendations or information on class gift opportunities. Please email the Director of Alumni Relations, Becky Feltes ’97 Fischesser at bfischesser@sfhscollegeprep.org to learn how SFHS can help plan your reunion. February 2021 | 17
GIVING
Advancement News Five questions for Vice President for Advancement, Steve Nache:
1.
What attracted you to St. Francis High School? Initially, it was the school’s patron, Saint Francis. I was born on his feast day, and have been drawn to him my whole life. Francis loved God with such clarity that he came to see all created things as familiar to him, calling them Brother and Sister. That’s pretty fertile ground on which to build a community and an inquisitive learning environment. that you’ve been on the job for several months, do you feel settled 2. Now into the position and community?
I do. The people here have a tremendous, welcoming spirit. I feel blessed to work with a strong advancement team, our generous volunteers, and school leadership on a daily basis. I’ve also enjoyed working with and getting to know the faculty and staff, as well as some of our students, parents, alumni and other SFHS supporters. It’s funny though…with masks covering faces, I keep going to the yearbook to see what people actually look like!
3.
What role does Vice President for Advancement play? The Advancement Office “advances” the mission of the school through fundraising and engagement of parents, alumni, and friends. I’m charged with designing a comprehensive advancement plan—including the annual fund appeal, events, major gifts and planned gifts, the endowment, capital campaigns, alumni and constituent relations, and stewardship. Then, along with the Advancement team, we implement that plan so as to increase donor engagement and our fundraising outcomes.
IL TAX CREDIT SCHOLARSHIP Consider using your 2021 IL tax liability as a contribution to St. Francis High School using the Empower Illinois Tax Credit Scholarship Program. Illinois Invest in Kids scholarship program is a wonderful way for our family to make an impact “ The on the lives of others – through Catholic education. At an after tax cost of 25 cents for each dollar we
contribute, we fund education for qualifying families with the confidence that our donations will have a lasting, positive impact. For us, it's high impact giving!" - David and Terri Dieter, current SFHS parents.
EmpowerIllinois.org to learn more about the Tax Credit Scholarship (TCS) program. 18 | Visit Focus Magazine
DONORS MAKE LASTING IMPACT
4.
Why is it important for people to give to St. Francis High School? Philanthropic support is integral to the success of SFHS. Tuition alone does not cover the full cost of a St. Francis High School education. Each year, SFHS depends on charitable gifts to the Annual Fund to make up the deficit between the actual costs of operating the school and tuition revenue. In addition to annual giving, we invite people who care deeply about the future of SFHS to consider investing in ways that provide the school with longer term financial stability—like gifts made to the endowment, or planned gifts.
5.
What important challenges does SFHS need to address? As described in the school’s new Strategic Plan, there are two primary challenges for Advancement. First, we want to build on the great community and tradition that already exists here at SFHS, by engaging and supporting our 10,000+ living alumni and fostering even stronger relationships among them as well as with the school; and second, we want to ensure the school is well positioned to embark on its next 65 years by building a strong financial base. You can reach Steve Nache, Vice President for Advancement, at 630-668-5800 x1220 or snache@sfhscollegeprep.org.
Endowment St. Francis High School’s endowment provides funding to support the school’s academic mission for current and future students and lends fiscal stability to the school. "The reason I care so much about endowments at Catholic schools is that I understand the math behind the challenges facing Catholic schools... When there are good public school options which are free and the cost of Catholic schools continues to rise significantly over the years, endowments are necessary to improve the possibility of Catholic schools surviving into the future. - Kevin Spahn, parent of three SFHS alumni Planned Gift Planned giving includes a variety of philanthropic strategies that enable you to donate assets to support SFHS, yet defer the time that the gifts are received. "Through my children's and my experiences, I came to realize what a very special community SFHS is and I am making a planned gift to ensure that future generations will be able to be a part of this very special school family." - Linda Griffith, alumni parent
#GIVINGTUESDAY | 12.1.2020 Our community of alumni, parents, students, faculty/staff and friends (184 donors overall) raised $34,538 for tuition assistance. The amount represents a 12% increase in the number of donors and a 25% increase in dollars raised compared to last year. Thank you!
THE SPARTAN HOLIDAY SHOP & DINE | 12.4.2020 Due to COVID-19 restrictions the St. Francis Mothers’ Club quickly and creatively pivoted from the annual Festival of Fashion to create the Spartan Holiday Shop and Dine event. More than 50 retailers and restaurants in DuPage & Kane counties participated by donating a portion of their proceeds to SFHS. More than $3,500 was raised!
Save the Date!
If you’re interested in getting involved, please contact Manager of Special Events, Danielle Costello at dcostello@sfhscollegeprep.org.
April 17, 2021
Ensuring Our Future Raffle - Enter to win $10,000 Purchase your raffle tickets for a chance to win! The winning ticket will be drawn during the Ensuring Our Future Virtual Auction on Saturday, April 17, 2021 and the winner need not be present to win. February 2021 | 19
Advancement News
St. Francis High School hosted the 31st Spartan Classic at Cantigny Golf Club on September 25, 2020. This year, SFHS combined our school’s two golf outings – the Alumni Association’s Spartan Classic with the Spirit and Pride Golf Outing. The sold-out event had 224 golfers, including 118 alumni from near and far. Together, our alumni, current parents, alumni parents and friends raised more than $77,000 for tuition assistance! This was a 54% increase in net proceeds from the 2019 Spartan Classic! Thank you to all our sponsors, golfers and volunteers for making the 2020 Spartan Classic the best yet. We were able to host a successful event despite the many COVID 20 | Focus Magazine
2020 SPARTAN CLASSIC
restrictions of 2020. However, a few things looked a bit different than prior outings. We were unable to gather formally post-golf, but that didn’t hinder the fun. New additions this year included a silent auction for those not attending, allowing one to bid from home. Our auction and raffles featured fantastic golf gear and golf at local clubs including Chicago Golf, Rich Harvest and Medinah Country Club. We had a perfect warm, sunny fall day at Cantigny Golf Club. Golfers received an Adidas pullover in Spartan blue. Games on the golf course added to the fun with our very own senior golfer, Katherine L. ’21 challenging all to Beat the Pro.
The winning foursome came down to a three-way tie. After much deliberation, Cantigny announced the winning foursome: Charlie Rego, alumni parent and Board of Director, Kyle Ulbrich, Stan Telford and alumna and Board of Director, Amy Cleveland ’89 Verbeke. The champions each received a Cantigny Golf Club gift certificate and engraved Spartan Classic pint glasses. Save the Date! 2021 Spartan Classic Golf Outing Friday August 27, 2021 Cantigny Golf Club Don’t miss out on the fun and the chance to raise funds for tuition assistance. Stay tuned for more information on the 2021 Spartan Classic.
Spartan Classic Winners: Charlie Rego, Kyle Ulbrich, Stan Telford, & Amy Cleveland ’89 Verbeke
Thank You 2020 Spartan Classic Sponsors! Event Sponsor Mike Abernathy
Lunch Sponsor Klein Construction
Auction Sponsor Anonymous Golf Direct Now / Chris Rowlan John McGaw
Breakfast Sponsor Schumann Financial / Carl Morreale ‘98
Alumni Scholarship Sponsor Todd Shaw ‘89 Gold Level Sponsor Cleveland and Calmeyn/Haenicke Families The Galasso Family U.S. Metals, Inc. / Jamie Green ‘89 Haggerty Auto Group R.C. Coil / Mark Sawko ‘75 Silver Level Sponsor Cassidy Tire / Ahern Family Janet & Dr. Steven Armbrust Buck Services / Buchholz Family SealMaster / Kevin Shields SFHS Father’s Club Jim & Mary Beth Stanicek ‘72 Theiss, Cathy Theiss ’03 Virtue, Dan Virtue ’03, Jim Theiss ’03 & Lauren Theiss ‘06 McDonald Wheaton Oral Surgery & Implant Center Bronze Level Sponsor Grainger Co / Alcantara Family Mako Mold / Mike Armbrust ‘88 Connelly Electric The Cooney Family The Dillenkoffer, Stillwell & Hughes Families Dave & Becky Feltes ’97 Fischesser Lynn Mirabella ‘80 Country Financial / Sean & Debbie Quirk, Sarah ’07, Nora ’09, Brian ’12, & Peter ‘13 WG Technologies / Mike Sacksteder ‘88 Jeff & Beth Senall Roger’s Flooring / Bryan Wanshek ‘88 Putting Contest Sponsor Todd Shaw ’89 Hole in One Sponsor GMC Woody
Party Cooler Sponsor Trinity H Bloody Mary Bar Sponsor U.S. Metals, Inc. / Jamie Green ‘89 Zing Zang Raffle Sponsors Kammes Auto & Truck Group Wheaton Sport Center Heads/Tails Sponsor St. Francis High School Alumni Board Golf Bag Sponsor Golf Direct Now / Chris Rowlan Wilson / Bill Nestel Jr. Golf Ball Sponsor Golf Direct Now / Chris Rowlan Golf Club Sponsor Golf Direct Now / Chris Rowlan Tour Edge Beer Sponsor Jason Lichtman Golf Hole Sponsors Armbrust Plumbing / Rich Armbrust ‘82 Woodland Playsets / Bobbi Bergeron ‘62 Aschauer Dr. Dennis Beck ‘74 FreightHawk Xpress / Jim Beres The Boler Family - Tom, Maggie, Meghan '03 Hanika, Alex '06 Borter Heating & Air Conditioning Valerie Serwach '81 Bruggeman John ‘77 & Cindy Buchholz Peach Carr Designs / Peach Enzweiler ’78 Carr Jeanne Carroll Kilwins Geneva / Tom Castronovo Connor & Gallagher / Josh Kopec ‘97 Ron Darin – Amy ’00, Emily ’03 & Ryan ‘06
In Memory of Mary Feltes Hot Worx – Emily McNulty ’92 Garrity The Grivetti Family A.J. Jania Family – Emily ’19 & AJ ‘23 Jostens Pete Kinsella ‘75 Coach McMillen & the SFHS Football Team Murnane Packaging / Mackenzie Murnane ’04 Grodecki Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedics / Dave Mochel David & Kathy White ‘72 Olson Alan Panozzo ‘97 Nick Patti ‘91 The Read Insurance Agency Ray & Rosemarie Reid Trine Construction / Michael Rendina ‘89 Kelsey Robinson ‘10 Rodriguez Law Offices Mark Sawko ‘75 Schmidt Exteriors / Michael Schmidt ‘70 Schmitt Landscaping SFHS Alumni Faculty & Staff The Vonderhaar Family Greg Webb ‘67 Spartan Classic Sponsor Rob Cleveland ‘92 Len Paolucci ‘62 St. Michael Parish School Donors 302 Wheaton Msgr. Michael Bliss '79 Paul & Carolee Hahn '64 Borter Burger Social Caliendo’s Cooper’s Corner Mike Fitzgerald ‘69 Gia Mia Hale St. Cantina Hen House Moveable Feast The Pasker Family Matt Rego ‘20 Sodexo Suzette’s Creperie Tasting DeVine
February 2021 | 21
2130 W. Roosevelt Road Wheaton, IL 60187 s scollegeprep.org
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! sfhs.8to18.com A wide variety of camps and clinics are available for students entering grades 3-12. ART Explore Art, Drawing ATHLETICS • Baseball • Basketball • Cheer • Football • Lacrosse • Running
• Soccer • Softball • Swimming • Tennis • Track • Volleyball
BAND Beginning Guitar, Intro to Jazz Band, Jazz Band, Band Camp, Music Ensemble, Drumline, Marching Band Camp CHOIR RockAppella, IMEA Choral, Vocal Arts ENGLISH Fun with Grammar TECHNOLOGY Spartan Tech Entry Program (STEP) THEATRE Summer Musical, Young Spartan Showcase, 22 | Focus Magazine Stage Crew
