LFL 23 Final

Lancer Life for

KENNEDY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI MAGAZINE

And looking at them, Jesus said to them,

MATTHEW 19:26

"WITH PEOPLE THIS IS IMPOSSIBLE, BUT WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE."

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2022-23 HIGHLIGHTS

A snapshot of events and proud partnerships from the 2022-23 school year

TRAVELING LANCERS

Lancers traveled to Costa Rica and London with more trips on the horizon

CAMPUS MINISTRY

Jenny Farrell '92 recaps an amazing year of service, outreach, and retreats

A FAREWELL NOTE

Athletic Director Don Hoffman '83 bids Lancer Nation farewell after 34 years

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION

Grace Moore serves up love at the dorm, while student Leo Paulo J. serves his community at Habitat for Humanity

LANCER LIFERS

Our esteemed alumni faculty walk down memory lane

SINGING FROM THE HEART

Choral Director & Fine Arts Department Chair Lindsay Brown reminisces on a music-filled year

CLASS REUNIONS

Celebrating the THREE'S (and a get together!)

LANCER FOR LIFE

MAGAZINE

A publication by Kennedy Catholic High School for alumni and friends

Editor Alyson Soma

Art Director

Cara Blake

Assistant Editor

Katie Oltmanns

Photographers

Katie Oltmanns

Katie Kolbrick ‘05

Mike Tedesco

Jenny Farrell ‘92

Sean McCarthy

Holy Family Catholic Church

Kennedy Catholic Staff

Pacific Northwest Imagery

Guest Contributors

Lindsay Brown

Renee Dickinson

Fr. Bryan Dolejsi

Abigail Fox '23

Karen Cascio

Jeannie Dailey '87

Jenny Farrell ‘92

Veronica Hellar

Don Hoffman ‘83

Tauno Latvala

Leo Paulo J.

Ben Josie '15

Nick McCluskey '05

Matthew Mohs

Grace Moore

Aaron Yenney

www.kennedyhs.org/LFL

The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official policy or position of Kennedy Catholic High School.

Dear Lancer Family,

As I complete my third year at Kennedy Catholic High School, I find myself increasingly grateful to have joined this tremendous community. In a world that feels increasingly negative, violent, and self-serving, our students demonstrated daily that it is possible to spread peace, love, and light instead.

Through thousands of hours of community service, academics, athletics, clubs and activities, and personal successes, our students proved that rising higher, not giving up, breaking records, serving others,

and finding a meaning outside of oneself is all possible, fulfilling, and satisfying. There were countless moments during the year when I saw surprise, jubilation, and personal triumph when a student reached higher than they thought possible and succeeded or, through teamwork, achieved an outstanding goal.

When we selected our theme for the year – “Anything is Possible” – we wanted our students to remember that through hard work, determination

and faith in God, anything is possible. Now, as I look back on the year, I realize that our community revealed this truth repeatedly and consistently. It truly is an exciting time to be a member of the Lancer Family.

In peace,

Matthew Mohs President/Principal

Numerous examples of this vision follow on the pages of this edition of Lancer for Life.

Through students' curiosity, openness, courage, and faith, they see a world that is kind, inclusive, and hopeful.

Dear Lancer Family,

In this publication you will see two great ways in which members of Kennedy Catholic High School are living their faith: by using the gifts of God and by being kind to one another.

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common Good.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

From my six years as chaplain at Kennedy Catholic and my time as former interim president along with my family ties of aunts, uncles, nephew, and sibling involved at Kennedy Catholic, I have seen very clearly when people continue to grow in faith, hope and love by using the gifts God has given them and by being kind towards one another as brothers and sisters in the Lord.

As the school year ends, see the presence of God in the various gifts and kindnesses found here. The Holy Spirit is active in the people of God at this school and in the larger

Church. Let us work together in all things, praying, and finding the work of the Holy Spirit now and in the future.

Thank you to all parents of our students, teachers, and staff and all those who support our students as they desire to grow into the person God has called them to be. May God bless us all.

Your Servant in the Risen Christ, Fr.

Bryan Dolejsi

Associated Student Body (ASB) Leader's dinner with President/Principal Matt Mohs, Bishop Schuster '90, and ASB Advisor Ben Josie '15

CONGRATULATIONS Class of 2023!

HIGHLIGHTS 2022-23

TAIWANESE PARTNERSHIP

We are thrilled to announce our new partnership agreement with Hsinchu International Academy in Taiwan! We appreciate their hard work and collaboration through this process, and are hopeful about welcoming more students from Taiwan to Kennedy Catholic High School through our Office of International Education.

PARENT CLUB EVENTS

We do not know what we would do without our parent-led associations. Parent Club specifically had another successful year of events - our Father/Daughter Halloween Dinner & Incredible Challenge Race catered by Centro, the Mother/Son Let's Rock the 80s Event, the Mother/Daughter Dinner & Flower Craft Event and the reintroduction of the Father/Son Field Day! This year's Arts & Crafts Fair was also a major triumph for the community, celebrating over 250 local artists and businesses along with a holiday bake sale. We look forward to continuing this long-standing tradition next year!

LITTLE LANCERS

This year our Little Lancers

Trick or Treat and Easter Egg Hunt were extra sweet! Our annual Halloween festivities included trick-or-treating, games, and if you trekked up to the science labs, a spooky pumpkin experiment. We loved seeing Little Lancers again in the spring for our Easter Egg Hunt around campus plus lots of games, activities, and fun for all!

HOCO

Homecoming Week is always a whirlwind of excitement. This year we were honored to welcome Bishop Schuster '90 to celebrate mass with us! Johnny Gannaw '03 was our remarkable guest speaker, and a special procession concluded the Mass with Bishop Schuster singing the Alma Mater along with our entire student body. All were welcome to attend this mass, and we enjoyed seeing alumni on campus to celebrate with us. The week ended with a football win and a Homecoming Dance to remember at the Seattle Art Museum (pictured below)!

22-23 TEAM

MEMBER OF THE MONTH

Each month, students, parents, and faculty nominated whom they felt went above and beyond, as well as embodied one or more of the Beatitudes so loved by our Patron Pier Giorgio Frassati.

SEPTEMBER

The Technology Team

Michael Fox, Steele Fredricksen, and Phoi Ly

OCTOBER

Kathleen Gurnard

Faculty | English Teacher and Chair of English Department

NOVEMBER

Frances McKamey Faculty | Elementary Band Program Director

DECEMBER

Tina Petrusha

Faculty | Social Studies and AVID Chair

JANUARY

Megan McNulty Faculty | Science Teacher

FEBRUARY

Matt Cohen Faculty | Science Teacher

MARCH

Lindsay Brown

Faculty | Choir Director and Chair of the Fine Arts Department

APRIL

Julian Franco

Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management

MAY

Lisa Holmberg

Faculty | ASL Teacher

Nominations open for the 23-24 school year in September at www.kennedyhs.org/TMOM

@KennedyCatholicLancers

This or THAT?

TEXT OR CALL?

Ms. Duffy: Text

Ms. Clendinen: Text

Ms. T. Etzkorn: Text

Ms. Tiffany: Call

Mr. Olson: Call

Mr. McMillen: Call

OCEAN OR MOUNTAINS?

Mrs. Fredricksen: Ocean

Ms. Clendinen: Ocean

Ms. Nordstrom: Ocean

Ms. Blake: Mountains

Ms. Mosler: Mountains

Mr. Olson: Mountains

NIGHT OWL OR EARLY BIRD?

Ms. O: Night owl

Mrs. Burnaby: Night owl

Mr. McMillen: Night owl

Dr. Farrell: Early bird

Ms. Masters: Early bird

Ms. Mosler: Early bird

TRAVEL BACK OR TRAVEL FORWARD?

Ms. K. Etzkorn: Travel back

Ms. Mosler: Travel back

Mr. Franco: Travel back

Mr. Doyle: Travel back

BOOK OR eREADER?

Ms. McNulty: Book

Ms. Brown: Book

Ms. Soma: Book

Mr. Doyle: eReader

Ms. Burnaby: eReader

Mrs. Fredricksen: eReader

SUNRISE OR SUNSET?

Dr. K: Sunrise

Mr. Franco: Sunrise

Mrs. Buenafe: Sunset

Ms. Clendinen: Sunset

Ms. Breshock: Sunset

ASK FOR PERMISSION OR FORGIVENESS?

Dr. K: Permission

Ms. Soma: Permission

Mrs. Brown: Forgiveness

Ms. O: Forgiveness

Dr. Farrell: Forgiveness

Mr. Tag: Forgiveness

Mrs. Burns: Forgiveness

Ms. McNulty: Travel forward

Mrs. Buenafe: Travel forward

EAST (CHERRY BLOSSOM) OR WEST COURTYARD?

Ms. K. Etzkorn: East

Mr. Franco: East

Ms. Clendinen: East

Ms. Nordstrom: East

Mrs. Buenafe: West

Mr. Olson: West

Mr. McMillen: West

Mr. Doyle: The library

PLAYLISTS OR PODCASTS?

Ms. O: Playlists

Mr. Olson: Playlists

Mrs. Burns: Playlists

Ms. Mosler: Podcasts

Dr. Farrell: Podcasts

Ms. Blake: Podcasts

ALUMNI & FACULTY NOTES

ALUMNI WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Chef Brandon Lavielle '04, owner of Lavish Roots, was awarded a Presidential Medallion by the President of the American Culinary Federation

Jenny Farrell ’92 earned her Doctor of Ministry from Seattle University

WELCOME LITTLE ONES

Katie Burns '90 welcomed another grandbaby with the birth of Alexandria June Hines

Class of 1970 had their 50th reunion (52nd due to COVID-19)

Brianne Linblad '07 was inducted into the High School Swimming Hall of Fame

Trevor Hoffman '17 was selected for the 2022 Honorable Mention All-American team by the American Football Coaches Association

PASSINGS

Mark Handley Aspiri '87 philanthropist and true servant leader

FACULTY/STAFF SUCCESSES

Ryan Kemp graduated with his Master in Teaching

Alyson Soma received her Master of Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University

Laura Breshock was selected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Washington State Scholastic Esports Association (WSSEA)

Haley Wooten completed the PACE Master Degree Program at the University of Portland

Sean McCarthy welcomed his son, Daniel

Nick McClusky '05 welcomed his son, Laurence Brian

WEDDINGS

Tahnayee Clendinen was married in 2023

Mitch Hostetter was married in August 2022

PASSINGS

John “Jack” Schuster, Kennedy Catholic Principal 1982-2004

TRAVELING LANCERS

With the end of COVID-19 restrictions, student travel has begun again at Kennedy Catholic High School. We believe that travel opens up new worlds and brings what is taught in the classroom to life. Students are also able to earn school credit, making a once-in-a-lifetime trip memorable and scholastic. This year, we were pleased to offer a trip to Costa Rica, service trips to Yakima and Agape in Bellingham, and a theatre trip to London, England.

UPCOMING TRIPS:

ICELAND | April 2024

D-DAY THRU GERMANY & FRANCE | June 2024

TAIWAN | June 2024

FRENCH & ITALIAN RIVIERA | June 2025

COSTA RICA

PURA VIDA!

by VERONICA HELLAR

During spring break, I had the great pleasure to lead a group of Spanish students to Costa Rica. In our trip we visited a butterfly garden and cafetal, hiked Arenal Volcano, kayaked Arenal Lake, experienced a crocodile mangrove tour, zip lined, and visited Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio. Of course we had fun in the pool, sunbathed at the beach, and did some souvenir shopping.

We visited NATUWA (animal sanctuary) where we learned about the diversity of animals in Costa Rica and what they've gone through to survive. We finished our visit by digging a fire contention wall to protect the sanctuary and eating some fresh mangoes to ease the heat.

My hope for Kennedy Catholic students is that they have many more opportunities to travel and visit new countries and experience cultures to become citizens of the world!

LONDON IT'S CURTAIN TIME

by RENEE DICKINSON

In June, I led a group of students on a nine day theatre tour of London, Oxford, and Stratford-upon-Avon. We toured Windsor Castle, the Tower of London, and the Royal Opera House as well as New College in Oxford and both Shakespeare’s birthplace and Ann Hathaway’s cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon. We had three theatre workshops, including one at the Globe Theatre, plus, we saw four plays: Grease!, The Play that Went Wrong, Alls Well that Ends Well, and Oklahoma!, two of which were unusual and experimental revisions.

My personal highlights were hearing our choir students sing in the New College Chapel, listening to students' uproarious laughter throughout The Play that Went Wrong, seeing how they loved the countryside and the city, and learning how many of them wish to return. They are all seasoned travelers now. Watch out! Here’s hoping for many more successful journeys abroad. It is truly life changing.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING

This year the focus of the DEIB Department has been student belonging. To highlight and celebrate the various cultures and identities here at Kennedy Catholic High School this year we have introduced:

HERITAGE MONTH Monthly Giveaways & Treats

Heritage months are often overlooked in a school setting, however remembering them goes a long way in recognizing traditionally marginalized groups. For each heritage month, cultural treats were shared with all students. A favorite this year was the homemade lumpia shared during the Filipinx Heritage Month.

CULTIVATE A Community of Color Gathering

Cultivate was designed to give the people of color at Kennedy Catholic an event specifically dedicated to celebrating all of the cultures that make up the Lancer Family. Students of color, their families, and allies gathered on campus for live cultural performances from students and community members for an educational and inspiring afternoon.

TLT Think First. Love Second. Talk Third. The campaign TLT was designed by members of the DEIB Committee to help combat hurtful and offensive language in the classrooms and hallways. TLT urges students to consider the short- and long-term impact that words have on their futures and others.

In addition to the events above, we continue to support and develop:

Affinity Groups

Asian Student Union, Black Student Union, Filipinx Student Union, Latinx Student Union, and Pacific Islander Student Union.

DEIB Committee

This group of staff and faculty members meets monthly to discuss issues and solutions surrounding Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.

Staff Professional Development

Staff gain new skills and tools to help navigate complex DEIB concepts such as cultural competency, unconscious bias, microaggressions, and intentional inclusion.

MOMENTS

OF THE CLASS OF 2023

2022-23 RECAP

CAMPUS MINISTRY by THE CAMPUS MINISTRY TEAM

CUERNAVACA SISTER SCHOOL

This year, our St. Vincent de Paul Club helped Kennedy Catholic High School raise over $2,400 for five students whom we support at our sister school in Cuernavaca, Mexico. The students we support range in age from a second grader to a university student. Because students doubled their fundraising goal, we were able to support an additional four students with uniform fees, textbooks, technology, and school fees! Thank you, Lancer Family!

SEARCH RETREAT

In pre-pandemic times, we increased our junior and senior SEARCH retreats to three per year instead of two per year. This allows us to serve as many students as possible who want to attend. Fall, Winter, and Spring

SEARCH retreats are optional for our students, and yet, about 90% of our graduating seniors attend. A rewarding part of our jobs as campus ministers is working with student leaders on crafting their faith talks, developing small group skills, and creating behind-the-scenes affirmations for those attending the retreat. Countless hours go into creating a theme, posters, decorations, journals, and special treats for students in this three-day retreat.

retreat by doing all the production, moving of supplies, running events and games, and cleaning that occurs throughout the two-day retreat. It also includes 70+ small group leaders who work together to create a theme, plan small group sharing and

FROSH RETREAT

Did you know our annual Frosh Retreat involves over 100 student leaders, 225 freshmen, and all faculty and staff? This annual retreat in February is run by 30+ sophomore squad members who help support the

community-building activities, and devote countless hours in creating core memories that freshmen talk about throughout their time at Kennedy Catholic. This year, our unique community event included giant bouncy houses, human foosball, and laser tag! More importantly, we were able to bring back in-person service placements. Our 9th graders served in eight local parishes and non-profit organizations. It was a highlight for all the students. Frosh Retreat always culminates with a beautiful Mass and includes parents, leaders, and

Each retreat may have the same framework, but each one is unique in the spiritual depth and community building the retreat groups create together.

all freshmen. This year was no exception. We are grateful to Fr. Tom Belleque from St. Anthony Parish, who celebrated Mass with us. We ended the retreat with a student-created video highlighting experiences from this memorable weekend. We are looking forward to the Class of 2026 becoming future leaders of this unique retreat!

AGAPE SERVICE PROJECT

Fifteen Lancers went to Lynden, WA to volunteer with Agape Service Project in June. From the Archdiocese website, “Agape Service Project encounters the farmworker community of Whatcom County, facilitates week-long middle and high school service-immersion, and empowers young adults to be servant leaders. Through servicelearning experiences, participants learn about human dignity, issues affecting farmworkers and why we as Catholics are called to serve.

building activities throughout the week. We look forward to building our relationship with Agape Service Project so students may attend this annual summer service trip as a part of the Lancer Family!

2022-23 ISLE UPDATE

The graduating Class of 2023 completed their ISLE Presentations before faculty and staff panels in March. This class logged over 7,000 hours in service to the community, while the Class of 2024 currently has amassed over 3,000 hours as they prepare for their Senior ISLE Presentations next spring. These hours are served in the great outdoors – restoring or building trails, removing invasive species, completing reforestation projects as well beautifying local parks and streets in our community. They have been served while staffing environmental education and camping programs. They have been served as coaches in local youth leagues, adaptive sports, and CYO, or as tutors through the library systems or other organizations. Lancer students have served the most vulnerable among us through food provision programs (food banks, meals, baking and decorating birthday cakes for homeless youth) as well as support and presence at shelters and for other service providers. Serve, Lancers, serve! •

VISITING PRIESTS

AT MASS

Thank you to the following priests for serving 22 sacramental needs (Eucharist and Reconciliation) for the Lancer Family this year:

• Fr. Xavier Bazil | St. Anthony (Renton)

• Fr. Tom Belleque | St. Anthony (Renton)

• Fr. Scott Connolly | St. Peter, St. Paul, St. George, St. Edward (Seattle)

• Fr. Lou Cunningham | Sacred Heart (Enumclaw)

• Fr. Bryan Dolejsi | Holy Family (Kirkland)

• Fr. Patrick Freitag | St. Jude (Redmond)

• Fr. Dick Hayatsu | St. Francis (Burien)

• Fr. Jim Northrop | St. Thomas (SeaTac)

• Fr. Carlos Orozco | Holy Spirit (Kent)

• Fr. Justin Ryan | Vocations Director

• Bishop Frank Schuster

• Fr. Tom Vandenberg | St. Vincent de Paul (Federal Way)

• Fr. Ed White | St. Stephen the Martyr (Renton)

Our students worked at the raspberry farms in Whatcom County offering games and activities for children of farmworkers, ran a food bank that services 350 families, and built community through prayer, Mass, and community-

"I'm grateful there are people out there who care about us even though we've made mistakes."

"I always miss my family during the holidays. You reminded me I have more than one family."

Through our food bank, community support and time spent with the migrant families, we have the ultimate goal of building personal relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

Letters from kids in the King County Juvenile Detention Center whom Kennedy Catholic serves at Christmas.

Greetings Lancer friends, families, students, and alumni. As I wrap up my career of 34 years at Kennedy Catholic High School, I wanted to take time to express how appreciative I am of the support I have received in my journey with Kennedy Catholic.

I can readily say that my career choice to work with students and student athletes was fruitful with very few regrets. The memories of all the ups and downs of athletic competition will be with me always, God willing.

It all started in 1989 when Coach Merrill offered me a position helping coach Freshman Football. Soon after that, I got involved with the basketball program as well.

Farewell, Lancers!

A NOTE FROM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

DON HOFFMAN '83

Coach Bourgette trusted me with calling plays in football as offensive coordinator for many years and hired me to lead the Varsity Girls Basketball team in 1994. After 13 years of coaching the girls program, I took a year off from basketball to focus on my football coaching and other school responsibilities. As I believe God works in mysterious ways, the Boys Basketball position opened, and I spent 12 more years on the court!

the football staff with an unbelievable group of people. Likewise, throughout my basketball career, I was blessed with awesome assistants.

I believe the successes we had in both football and basketball, which included many basketball state tournament appearances and football playoff runs, can be attributed to the staff cohesion and loyalty we all had to each other. No person can do it alone and I am grateful to have been an assistant on

The most important assistant I have had in my career is my wife, Kim. Her willingness to support my coaching endeavors and all that comes with it is remarkable. She (and my kids) rarely missed a game; I could always count on them in the stands and lending an ear when I got home.

I want to thank all those that played their hearts out for their teammates and coaches. We were not always the biggest dogs in the fight, but we were always tough.

As I move on to the next phase of my life, I wish Lancer Nation well and I will see you in the stands a time or two. •

As I climbed my way to the varsity level of coaching, some of the greatest memories of my life began!

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 22-23 SEASON

1 2 6

3 7

5 9 10 11 12

FOOTBALL Took second in State Finals after the semifinal win over Emerald Ridge.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Fifth appearance at State in the last eight years.

GIRLS WRESTLING First ever appearance at State.

4 8 12 MEMORABLE

GIRLS SWIM AND DIVE 10 athletes qualified to go to State.

BOYS WRESTLING Mathias C. won the State Championship in Boys Wrestling.

BOYS WRESTLING Placed seventh overall in State, matching the schools best finish ever.

BASEBALL Peter H. hit a walk-off grand slam in the District Playoff Game to send the team to the next round.

GIRLS GOLF Anika S. qualified for State.

GIRLS WATER POLO Second place finish in State which is the best in school history.

BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

Geron W. won second in State Finals in High Jump and Hoku M. won eighth in Javelin.

BOYS WATER POLO Took third in Division Championships and advanced to State.

Welcome

RYAN MUMMERT '99

After a statewide search, Ryan Mummert '99 will be the next Athletic Director for Kennedy Catholic following the retirement of current Athletic Director, Don Hoffman '83. Ryan joins us from Tacoma Community College (TCC), where he has served as the Head Baseball Coach and Athletic Coordinator. In his time at TCC, Ryan became the all-time winningest coach and produced the top six winningest seasons in program history.

His personal philosophy stresses the importance of nurturing both the student and the athlete. He has been one of the most successful coaches at placing his players at the next level. Since 2013, no other junior college in the Pacific Northwest has sent more players to the Division 1 level than TCC. We are looking forward to warmly welcoming him back home to Kennedy Catholic!

ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT

THE VAL KIRK AWARD MATHIAS COLLINS '23 AND JOJO SOUTHWELL '23

Selected by faculty and staff, this award is presented to two seniors who have excelled in the classroom, maintaining a high GPA while also excelling in one or more sports.

Mathias is a devoted athlete with a work ethic that set him apart from his competition. He won the 4A State Wrestling Championship in the 160-pound class all while maintaining a 3.78 GPA. He also received the 4A NPSL Wrestling Athlete of the Year, and his name will live on the walls of the Goodwin Gymnasium at Kennedy Catholic. Mathias is furthering his athletic career and will wrestle at the Division I level at Menlo College.

Jojo was a dominant athlete for both our Volleyball and Water Polo teams. She helped lead the Varsity Volleyball team to the State tournament and was instrumental in the Water Polo team’s state-bound journey. Graduating with a 3.99 GPA, Jojo is headed to the University of Washington in the fall.

THE CARL J. VELLING AWARD

MASON HAYES '23 AND EMMA RICH '23

This annual award is presented to two students who have excelled in two sports or received recognition as exceptionally gifted in one sport during their senior year. These individuals must have displayed the same kind of motivation in the classroom that has led to success in athletics.

Mason helped lead an exciting journey to the Football State Championship game. He was a noteworthy performer in Track & Field, a member of ASB, and maintained a 3.94 GPA. Mason will continue his football career next year at the Division I level at the United States Airforce Academy.

Emma participated in three sports and helped the Girls Water Polo team to a 2nd place finish at State. Emma was an active member of our student body and carried a 3.44 GPA. Emma has signed with California Lutheran University as a Division III water polo player.

CLAPOUTS CONGRATS &

ATHLETICS

FALL

Football

Boys Water Polo

Girls Swim & Dive

Volleyball

WINTER

Girls Wrestling

Boys Wrestling

Boys Swim & Dive

SPRING

Track and Field

Girls Water Polo

Anika S. (Girls Golf)

FINE ARTS ORCHESTRA

Elizabeth L. | Violin

Scored a I and winner for Violin - went to State

Chase B. and Rae W. | Small Strings Ensemble Scored a I - went to State

MARCHING BAND + COLOR GUARD

Won the Grand Sweepstakes Award, Best Overall Band out of 19 bands with Color Guard placing 1st in their division | Washington State Apple Blossom Festival

2022-23 NATIONAL LETTERS OF INTENT

Kahina Ait Allaoua

Yakima Valley CollegeSoccer

Micah Banuelos University of Southern California - Football

Nathaniel Barnes University of RedlandsFootball

Jacob Beardemphl

Chapman UniversityTrack & Field

Mathias Collins

Menlo CollegeWrestling

Nya Crump

Saint Mary’s College of California - Volleyball

Jacob Dahlman University of Valley Forge - Baseball

Micah Hagler Bellevue CollegeBaseball

Mason Hayes

United States Air Force Academy - Football

Makena Hofford

Whitworth UniversityFastpitch

Peter Hollabaugh

Saint Martin’s University - Baseball

Ben Jackson Whitworth UniversitySwimming

Sedona Liming

Wayland Baptist University - Lacrosse

Kayla Mojica

Wayland Baptist University - Wrestling

Amy Pederson Whitworth UniversityFastpitch

Owen Rhoads

University of Puget Sound - Football

Katelynn Wakefield

Tacoma Community College - Volleyball

Maclane Watkins

University of Hawai’iFootball

SERVING UP LOVE AT THE DORM by GRACE MOORE

My name is Grace, and I am the St. Edward's Hall Dormitory Chef. I single-handedly do all the menu planning, grocery shopping, prep, cooking, and cleanup for 25+ boys. I have been at Kennedy Catholic High School since 2016 where I started in the school cafeteria, then transitioned to the dorm in August 2021.

often have very unique requests. Some of my favorites are natto, Japanese Wagyu or Korean Galbi steaks, grilled stuffed whole lamb, king crab, and even Squid Game candy (from the Netflix show).

My favorite thing to make for the students is brunch. They love the full spread and I usually bake something. The most requested foods are noodles or sushi.

Some special moments I have had with the students include sharing stories about pets the boys have back home and their requests for me to make foods their parents and grandparents make for them. What a huge honor! Some of the students have told me that I am like their second mom when

What I like best about working here are the students. They are always curious about what I am making for dinner and like to challenge me with suggestions and recipes. The students

In my free time I escape. I am a member of two car clubs, and love to get out and drive. I own a 1973 VW Bus, and I love it! I almost always have my dogs and granddaughters with me. We love to travel and have explored all over Canada, U.S.A., and Mexico.

I make their special requests or give them advice about food. I especially love it when I see the students run home from school for their afterschool snacks and to check on dinner.

Thank you to the students and families for always being gracious. Bon Appétit! •

I love it when they approach me after dinner and thank me for the food. The empty serving pans and their visits tell me they enjoyed what I made!

My name is Leo Paulo J. and my home country is the Philippines. I have been studying here since fall of last year.

I chose to study abroad at Kennedy Catholic High School because of its diversity and connection to tech brands like Microsoft. Kennedy Catholic also has a very high graduation rate for their students, and the staff and faculty support their students like family. Being here is a great opportunity to improve my education.

I was attracted to this school since I am very interested in technology.

PAULO

J.

SERVING OTHERS AT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY by LEO

Kennedy Catholic is the next-door neighbor of many large tech brands’ world headquarters. I find this school a special place because of how nice the students and the teachers are. They are very caring, and they will help you in any way possible.

I like that I can choose my elective courses. I can focus on what I want and be able to understand more about the things I like. I miss my family and the food in the Philippines. I also miss all the beaches and my holiday house where I have many fond memories. The international students have an Experience America activity every month and these activities are so fun and worth attending. I had so much fun during the homecoming dance. It was the first time experiencing an event or party that large.

I joined the Habitat for Humanity Service trip to serve the community and was able to experience helping to build a home. I liked being able to work with my friends to help serve those who are not as fortunate. I also liked the road trip traveling out to Yakima. I liked seeing the mountains of Washington State.

I did not expect the house that we worked on to be almost complete and I initially thought that we would be working on a house that was still in its early stages. This did make our job a lot easier as we could work inside in case of cold or wet weather.

After we completed work for the day, we would play fun games with other students on the trip. There was also a day when we took down a wooden structure which meant we destroyed

a few things and I found that specific day to be my favorite.

There are many things we take for granted these days. Comfort is one of them and we often forget that there are people who are not as fortunate. Joining these service trips, though, will give those who are less fortunate a home to stay in and live comfortably like us. •

LANCER LIFERS

JEANNIE DAILEY '87

JENNY FARRELL '92

How many years have you taught/worked at Kennedy Catholic? 15

What’s the worst fashion choice you made in high school? Stirrup leggings

My favorite activity when I attended Kennedy Catholic was… Cross Country and Band

I chose to stay at Kennedy Catholic because… I loved running for JFK and wearing the red, white and blue; loved doing service with KOOCS and retreats; and my brothers were also at Kennedy Catholic so it really did feel like the Lancer Family!

A highlight of my time teaching/working at Kennedy Catholic is… SEARCH retreats and working with leaders on their talks.

What slang do your students/athletes use that you don’t get/understand? The acronyms "bussin," "ate that up," and anything I have to check Urban Dictionary for!

How many years have you taught/worked at Kennedy Catholic? I started my work journey here in 1991, but have left and come back a few times, so some would say 30 plus years, but it wasn't consistent.

What’s the worst fashion choice you made in high school? It was the eighties; I think every choice I made was the worst, from the big hair (even perming my already curly hair) to the turned-up shirt collars.

My favorite activity when I attended Kennedy Catholic was… I was a cheerleader and loved being a part of that. I loved SEARCH and remember the retreat like it was yesterday.

I chose to stay at Kennedy Catholic because… I chose to stay and keep coming back, because it feels like home... I truly feel like I am part of a big community.

A highlight of my time teaching/working at Kennedy Catholic is… It has been the ability to wear so many hats while I have been here. I have taught for many years, but I also worked in the International Office, was the assistant for the Academic Dean, Math Department Chair, coached Girls Golf, Girls Basketball, and Cheer among other things. It has given me the ability to see all aspects of the school and build relationships that I otherwise would not have.

What slang do your students/athletes use that you don’t get/understand? I can't think of anything. If I don't understand something, I just ask them.

NICK McCLUSKEY '05

How many years have you taught/worked at Kennedy Catholic? Eight

What’s the worst fashion choice you made in high school? Baggy everything and terrible haircuts.

My favorite activity when I attended Kennedy Catholic was… Cross Country

I chose to stay at Kennedy Catholic because… The students and academic freedom for teachers to highlight topics they feel are engaging and significant for understanding our world today.

A highlight of my time teaching/working at Kennedy Catholic is… Our American Madness bracket at the end of year for U.S. History.

BEN JOSIE '15

How many years have you taught/worked at Kennedy Catholic? Just finished up my first year!

What’s the worst fashion choice you made in high school? Some would say “fanny pack Fridays” were a fashion disaster, but I’d disagree.

My favorite activity when I attended Kennedy Catholic was… ASB/Student Leadership

I chose to stay at Kennedy Catholic because…I grew up in these halls and this school shaped me into the man I am today—more than anything else in my life. So as I begin a career in teaching, I couldn’t imagine doing it anywhere else.

A highlight of my time teaching/working at Kennedy Catholic is… Getting to work with and learn from my old mentors and teachers. It’s great that they’re still teaching me, but in a much different way.

by LINDSAY BROWN

SINGING FROM THE

Heart

Hallelujah for a year of traditional music making! The choirs were able to sing in the traditional fashion this year after three years of consistent modifications and cancellations.

Some highlights of the year included the annual retreat (held at Miracle Ranch), the Central Washington University Fall Choral Classic,

singing at the Fulcrum Foundation's Celebration of Light, the Archdiocesan Festival of Choirs at Benaroya Hall, an intimate clinic with composer Jim Papoulis, and of course, our own spring concert held in the Chapel on campus.

The Director's Award for choir was awarded to Danielle Doell '23 and the Outstanding Vocalist Awards went

We also had the opportunity to sing as community outreach during the Christmas season and among our elementary partner schools.

Thank you to all of the parents, faculty, and community members

for supporting our music-making endeavors this year. Excalibur is looking forward to a trip to Oahu, Hawaii next spring to perform in the Oahu Choral Festival and we know there are many more musical moments ahead! •

to Phu Nguyen '23 and Avea Vasa '23 - all four-year veterans of the choral department.

We were blessed to be able to serve as liturgical musicians at several all-school Masses and a funeral service in the community.

BUSINESSES LOCAL LANCER

Throughout Burien, there are businesses owned or run by Lancer Family members as well as local business owners who have chosen to support Kennedy Catholic High School. We appreciate them all and encourage showing your support. Happy shopping!

MAP OF BURIEN

If we have inadvertently missed a business, please let us know at info@kennedyhs.org.

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

WELCOMING THE CLASS OF 2023

Arizona State University-Tempe

Arizona State University-Tempe (Business)

Arizona State University-Tempe (Engineering & Applied Sciences)

University of Arizona

Bellevue College

California Polytechnic State

University - San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State

University - San Luis Obispo (College of Engineering)

California Polytechnic State

University - San Luis Obispo (College of Liberal Arts)

California Lutheran University

University of California-Berkeley

University of California-Santa Barbara

University of California-Santa Cruz

Central Washington University

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Chapman University

University of Colorado Boulder

Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Columbia College Chicago

Cornell University

Eastern Washington University

Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University (Nursing)

Grand Canyon University

Green River College

University of Hawai'i - Mānoa

Highline College

Idaho State University

University of Idaho

Lewis & Clark College

Loyola Marymount University

Loyola University Chicago

Menlo College

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

University of Mississippi

Montana State University

Montana State University (College of Business)

Montana State University (College of Engineering)

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

University of Nevada, Reno

New Mexico State University

Northern Arizona University

University of Oklahoma-Norman

Pacific Lutheran University

University of Puget Sound

University of Redlands

Saint Martin's University

Saint Mary's College of California

San Diego State University

University of San Diego

Seattle Central College

Seattle Pacific University

Seattle University

Shoreline Community College

Simon Fraser University, Canada

Sophia University, Japan

South Dakota State University

South Puget Sound Community College

South Seattle College

University of Southern California

University of Southern California (School of Music)

SUNY Korea

Tacoma Community College

The University of Tampa

Trinity University

United States Air Force Academy

University of Oregon

University of Queensland, Australia

University of Valley Forge

University of Utah

Washington State University

Washington State University (Honors College)

University of Washington Seattle

University of Washington Seattle (Honors Program)

University of Washington Bothell

University of Washington Tacoma

Wayland Baptist University

Western Washington University

Whatcom Community College

Whitworth University

Willamette University

Yakima Valley College

$22.7 MILLION AWARDED IN SCHOLARSHIPS TO THE CLASS OF 2023!

BACCALAUREATE MASS WITH FR. OROZCO

This year's Baccalaureate Mass was complete with good weather, a gym filled with family and friends, and a lively and inspirational homily from Fr. Carlos Orozco. As is tradition, our graduates each brought one personal item that represents their time at Kennedy Catholic High School to be blessed during the Mass. We also introduced a custom Kennedy Catholic Celtic cross necklace, a replica of the cross at the front of our campus, that was gifted to each senior. Engraved with our school name, our hope is that our young alumni will go out into the world with this necklace as a reminder of their time here, the love and belief God has in them, and the fact that they will always have a home at Kennedy Catholic.

In Memorium

JOHN "JACK" SCHUSTER

1945-2023

Jack Schuster, former principal of Kennedy Catholic High School, served faithfully for 22 years from 1982-2004. He is survived by his wife and children, including Kennedy Catholic alumnus, Bishop Frank Schuster '90.

MARK HANDLEY ASPIRI '87

1968-2023

Mark Handley Aspiri '87 lived a full life with his wife Jennifer and son Justin. Mark moved his family to the Philippines in 2011 to work through his company, Generation Point, to provide emergency supplies to villages. A philanthropist and a true servant leader, Mark and Jennifer spent their recent years breeding dogs to be service animals for those in need. They were foster parents to many children.

HAIL A NEW MARY!

Thank you to the DiPietro family who generously donated a beautiful, new statue of Mary, Mother of God, to our school this year. The statue of Mary currently in our courtyard has been weathered and worn over the years which began a conversation of a possible "grotto" makeover. The first piece towards that project is this new statue of Mary. She arrived from Italy and was dedicated with the DiPietro family on-hand at our May Crowning Mass, May 4. That day we also celebrated Grandparents Day which was perfect since "Nonna" Josephine DiPietro had a very large hand in this amazing donation! As we work on a permanent placement, Mary is on display in our Chapel.

“IF WE LIVE, WE LIVE FOR THE LORD, AND IF WE DIE, WE DIE FOR THE LORD. THEREFORE, WHETHER WE LIVE OR DIE, WE BELONG TO GOD.” ROMANS 14:8

Michael '89 and Julie DePietro with Josephine DiPietro

Student Poetry

GLOWING FROM WITHIN

by ABIGAIL FOX '23

[An excerpt]

Legends have been passed down

From generation, to generation, to me

A door upon the mountain’s peak

To a place with a new way to be

I’ve walked so long in search of this I don’t know what I’ll find I don’t know what I’m looking for Or if it’s worth the climb

An eerie-still blue lake

A mossy green plush floor

Dewdrops reflecting radiance

From the light of the open door

I take one step towards it

I wonder if it’s true

Will this finally be the place

Where I can be made new?

The water doesn’t ripple

As I carefully wade through

I feel I should be kneeling

This water is my pew

As I draw closer still

I feel a new sensation

My see-through hands light up the night

Show it my desperation

I can see through this portal now

A truly wonderous sight

A world of peaceful stillness

A world of brilliant light

No thing exists in that world

But beams and rays and silence

No more tears or incompleteness

No more senseless violence

I reach out to touch the light

In hopes the tales are true

That this illuminating glory

Can remake me as new

DREAMS by ANONYMOUS

As a kid, I dreamed of things both impossible And ever so slightly possible, Of things like becoming a princess.

I dreamed

that very princess was a vampire Who shot lasers out of her eyes, Who was a mermaid and a queen

Of magic,

My mom never really indulged in me Or my many illusions of grandeur, She never really played with my stories And ideas. Which didn’t bother me much since I liked to play my way anyway, I chose who was the hero and who

The villain was, I think at some point that’s where I figured out who I was going to be, however, I didn’t realize it until Sophomore year.

Although I could not experience Those possible impossibilities, I could create those dreams with

My art

I was always good at telling stories At showing and drawing them, My mind wild with these tellings

Of fantasy

What I understood of those dreams, magical and wonderful, impossible but of my own possible, was real.

My college major and my dorm My books and my drawings, Were all very real and achievable

To my mom

And so, I’ve realized why she never Payed much attention to them, Those impossible stories and dreams

She knew

That what I would do in the future Relied on those dreams, That anything needs to be possible for my future.

SUPPORTING KENNEDY CATHOLIC

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO GAVE THIS YEAR IN SO MANY WAYS!

THREE REASONS TO GIVE NOW:

1 2 3

Help offset the $5,780 difference between the cost of tuition and actual cost to educate a student

Ensure students have access to a 21st century classroom

Support our students with unlimited possibilities for the future

DONATE NOW!

KATCH The Groove Kennedy Catholic Auction

Lancer Golf Classic

KATCH Auction

CLASS OF 1983

REUNIONS CLASS

40TH REUNION!

SEPT. 22-23, 2023

Friday, Sept. 22 | 8:30pm | 909 Coffee & Wine

CLASS OF 1973

50TH REUNION!

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30, 2023

6-10pm | Cedarbrook Lodge

Contact Ginger Lemmon Babcock at gingerlemmon73@hotmail.com.

CLASS OF 1977

CLASS OF 1977 – GET TOGETHER!

SATURDAY, JULY 29, 2023

2-7pm | Airways Brewing – Tap Room & Brewery (8611 S. 212th St, Kent)

For more information contact Donna Finke Murr at donnamurr@q.com.

Class Alumus, Frank Ricci '83, has reserved his restaurant 909 Coffee & Wine (909 SW 152nd St, Burien) for our class to kick off our reunion!

Saturday, Sept. 23 | 6pm | Beach Park Event Center (22307 Dock Ave S., Des Moines)

6pm | Social happy hour

7pm | Dinner is served

8pm | Program begins

For more information contact Karl Reichlin at kfr128@gmail.com or the reunion email jfk83.40th@gmail.com.

CLASS OF 1993

30TH REUNION!

AUGUST 12-13, 2023

Saturday, August 12 | 7:30-10:30pm |

Adult Social at Whisky West (6451 California Ave SW, Seattle)

No-host dinner and bar, significant others welcome (21+ only)

Sunday, August 13 | Noon-2pm |

Family Gathering in the Kennedy Catholic Courtyard (140 S. 140th St, Burien)

No-host lunch and bar, families welcome, games, tours, and music. Contact Patrick Sammon at ps@patricksammon.com.

ANNUAL REPORT 2022

The Kennedy Catholic 2022 Annual Report represents financial contributions made from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022. Included are gifts and sponsorships made through the Annual Fund, KATCH Auction, endowment, grants, and matching gifts. We've made every effort to publish the names of our donors accurately. If your name has been omitted, misspelled, or listed incorrectly, please accept our sincere apology and contact the Advancement Office at 206.957.9718 so we may update our records.

VIEW ANNUAL REPORT

Thank you for supporting Kennedy Catholic!

Join your fellow alumni and support Kennedy Catholic by playing in our 5th Annual Lancer Golf Classic!

FRIDAY, AUGUST 11, 2023

Shotgun start at 7:30am

Washington National Golf Course

Whether you are a new or long-time alumnus, or part of the Lancer Communi-TEE, enjoy one of Washington’s premier courses while supporting scholarships for current students at Kennedy Catholic.

MS. O'S TOP NINE

My name is Katie Oltmanns. I am the Digital Marketing Manager at Kennedy Catholic High School, and I run all social media channels. I attended nearly every event this year, and documented it for you to enjoy. It allowed me to build connections with so many of our amazing students, which is my favorite part of the job. These are my top Instagram picks for the year; the posts I feel best encapsulate the 2022-23 school year.

SEPT 27

SEPT 30

2023-24 EVENTS

OCT 11

OCT 26

NOV 3-11

DEC 2

DEC 9

DEC 13

JAN 27

FEB 5

MARCH 9

MARCH 14-17

MARCH 26

MAY 2

MAY 8

MAY 21

MAY 23

MAY 26

MAY 31

Homecoming Mass

Homecoming Football Game

Homecoming 5th Quarter Event

Homecoming Dance

Open House

Little Lancer Trick-or-Treat

Fall Musical Anne of Green Gables

Arts & Crafts Fair

Winter Open House

Christmas Concert

Booster Club Crab Feed

Festival of Choirs

KATCH Auction

Spring Play Our Town

Little Lancer Easter Egg Hunt

Grandparents Day & May Crowning Mass

Elementary Band Festival

Spring Instrumental Concert

Spring Choral Concert

Senior Prom

Baccalaureate Mass & Graduation