Volume 31, No. 2 Summer 2019
Leading the Way
Homecoming & Families Weekend • Saturday, October 5, 2019 Honored Athlete Breakfast
Football Game
Welles Dining Hall • 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Price Davis Field at Rick Leone Stadium • 2:00 p.m.
All former Academy athletes and your families are invited to attend!
Cheer on your Lancers! Support the senior class at the concession stand
To register, contact Anita Kopaczewski, director of alumni, at (262) 646-7220 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org.
Halftime – all alumni parade to the 50-yard line
HIS Y NEW T
Fall Fest Fundraiser
East of Price Davis Field • 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Inaugural “Smoker” Event East of Price Davis Field • 7:00-11:00 p.m.
• Festive social • Raffles and Auction atmosphere • Sponsorships • Fun games and activities available
Proceeds benefit the Academy’s Annual Fund. Watch for details at www.bidpal.net/sjnma. To volunteer or be an event sponsor, contact Cindy A. Trione, director of donor relations, at (262) 646-7289 or ctrione@sjnma.org. Naming opportunities available!
Also featuring the annual OBAA Pig & Chicken Roast Proceeds benefit the Old Boys Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. $20 per adult; $10 per child ages 6-15; free for children 5 and under; and cadets eat as part of their regular meal plan. Visit www.sjnma.org/alumni/events.cfm to register.
E A R!
• Card party / social • Raffles and Auction • Door prizes • Must be 21 to attend
Proceeds benefit the Academy’s athletics program. $10 per person. To register, visit www.bidpal.net/sjnmasmoker or contact Mike Fink, director of athletics, at (262) 646-7149 or mfink@sjnma.org.
The SJNMA Cadet Store is your first place for official SJNMA logo wear and specialty gifts. We have custom items for our alumni and cadets as well as family and friends. The SJNMA Cadet Store carries custom gift items, including our gold pocket watch ($80) and saber letter opener ($85). We also have a variety of phone accessories, cuff links, pens, mugs, water bottles, and more. All major credit cards accepted. PHONE (262)
646-7133
EMAIL cadetstore@sjnma.org
4 St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
COMMENCEMENT WEEKEND 2019 St. John’s Northwestern graduated 54 young men and one young woman in the senior class of 2019. Seniors and their families celebrated the weekend with many events including a concert, the traditional Class Stone Ceremony, and a formal parade before Commencement Exercises on May 25, 2019.
Editor-in-Chief Jaime L. Buege
Contributors
Ping Braatz Susan Collar Stephanie Ihler LTC James Kebisek H2008 Ann-Christin Kloth Anita Kopaczewski H2009 Stephen Matz Nicole Rutherford Cindy A. Trione Valerie Ward St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy 1101 Genesee St., Delafield, WI 53018 (800) 752-2338 www.sjnma.org The Beacon is published two times per year by the Advancement Department of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. The editorial staff welcomes your ideas and comments. Please submit correspondence to the editor at jbuege@sjnma.org.
Board of Trustees
Thomas D. Stocks III S1969, Academy President Michael F. Henn H2016, Chair Joe LaRocca N1969, Vice Chair Bard Boand N1967, Secretary Fred Leach S1974, Treasurer
Members
Dr. Crain Bliwas N1965 Lee Breitkopf S1973 Andrew Filipowski S1968 Joseph Giammanco N1970 Bill Hummel N1968 Charles Krametbauer S1978 Randy Lauer Anthony Lazzara S1948 John Leone The Rt. Rev. Steven Miller Kenneth Schneider Kathy Snodell H2018 Lilah Stangeland H1999 Ricky Tan 1999 John D. Wietzel S1964
9
NEW FACES AND NEW ROLES St. John’s Northwestern is excited to announce several administrative staffing changes. Get to know these new members of the SJNMA team.
Departments
2 My View 3 Front & Center 12 Esprit de Corps 14 International Connections 16 Academics 17 Ways to Give 18 Development Update
22 Old Boys Alumni Association 23 Reunion 2019 26 Alumni Office Update 28 Alumni News 30 Military Men in Service 31 Taps
On the Cover The Class of 2019 walks through the Senior Gate as Commencement Exercises begin on May 25, 2019.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
1
My View
Office of the President St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
This is my first letter for this space in The Beacon and I wanted to begin by thanking our dedicated faculty and staff for making my first 60 days as president a very rewarding experience. We had a successful Excalibur/Families Weekend, enjoyed a great Commencement & Reunion Weekend, and wrapped up the Academy’s school year. It was a joy and privilege to spend time with the cadets, parents and alumni during this time. I also want to thank all of you who have taken the time to wish me success in my new role. But, this is a team effort, so the success I see for the future will be due to the continued efforts of our dedicated Academy personnel. We have some new faces as we added experience and talent to an already outstanding staff. And some of our colleagues have moved into new roles that we believe will serve our Academy well. One of the primary topics that is on the minds of our alumni is enrollment. As I write this, I am pleased to report it appears we are headed toward a retention rate (returning cadets as a percentage of underclassmen invited back in the fall) in excess of 85%. This is very high by industry standards and a sign to me that our cadets and parents like what they see on the horizon.
On the new cadet side, we are in the process of proactively making thousands of direct contacts with prospects who have either shown interest in our Academy or fit the profile of those we would like to enroll. We are confident that we will see success with this approach over time. Of course, direct referrals are one of our best sources, so if you know a young person who would benefit from what we have to offer, please contact our admissions team. As we head into summer, I am looking forward to working with our headmaster, Eric Wozniak, and academic dean, Stephanie Ihler, on enhancements to our honors/ advanced placement curriculum. We will also be working on partnerships with two local colleges/universities in the areas of advanced leadership training and best in class character development. As in the past, we will host several great camps this summer, which is another opportunity for us to spend time with special young people. In the meantime, thanks to all of you for your support. Respectfully yours,
Tom Stocks S1969
2
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Front & Center
On May 11, 2019, St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy held its first-ever Emerging Leaders Symposium for Midwest students in grades 8, 9 and 10 who aspire to be great leaders. During the symposium, students had the opportunity to work in small groups to explore their leadership capacity, challenge their potential, and engage with fellow scholars from the Midwest. “The symposium brought together a select group of the brightest students who demonstrate the potential for great leadership,” said Tom Stocks. “The one-day event explored how students can overcome internal and/or external obstacles to help them recognize the leader within themselves, how to channel that calling into everything they do, and how to influence others toward positive change.” “The world is in need of leaders who have developed qualities including intelligence, lifetime learning, honor, integrity,
and moral courage; personal mastery and self-discipline; creativity and innovation; effective communication and collaboration; and the drive to serve and develop the capacity of others,” said Dr. Eric Wozniak, headmaster of St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. “The symposium engaged students in building a leadership development model for the future, and we could not have been more thrilled with the caliber of young men and women who participated.” Those who participated in the symposium had the opportunity to compete for scholarships to attend St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy in the fall of 2019. The scholarships were determined by a 45-minute aptitude test and ranged from significant discounts to full tuition. For more information on future symposiums, email Paul Borens, dean of admissions, at pborens@sjnma.org. Emerging Leaders Symposium attendees
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
3
Commencement Weekend 2019 1 Concert — May 24, 2019: 1: (left to right) Cadets Yu Zhou 2019 and Hyunbin
Choi 2021 play clarinet with Cadet Weiyu Xu 2021 on trumpet. 2: Cadets Aziah Backus 2019 (left) and Anders Rhode 2019 perform with The Pipes and Drums of SJNMA. 3: Cadets Austin Mair 2021 (left) and Zoie Dana 2021 perform with Dan Brill, drum instructor. 4: Cadets Xiao Jiang (left) 2019 and Joshua Layton 2019 perform with the SJNMA Band.
Senior Luncheon — May 25, 2019: 5: (left to right) Cadets José Rodarte Soto 2019, Anuar Esteban 2019 and Marden Camacho Ruiz 2019 with Dr. Jack H. Albert Jr., president emeritus. 6: Ping Braatz, Chinese language instructor, with Cadet Junsu Yoon 2019 and his parents, Eonseok Yoon and MiHyun Han.
Formal Parade — May 25, 2019:
4
7: Cadet Hongbo Jia 2019 receives the Roger Stangeland award for exemplifying the qualities of leadership and character as lived by Roger Stangeland S1947, former chairman of the SJNMA Board of Trustees. 8: Dr. Eric Wozniak, headmaster, presents Cadet Douglas Kirkhofer 2019 with the Association of Military Colleges and Schools of the United States award for excellence in both academics and citizenship, and significantly contributing to the success of the 135th Corps of Cadets. 9: Cadet Jacob Boas 2019 receives the Harry and Fran Vorys Perseverance Medal (SJMA class of 1943) for displaying continual optimism and perseverance as a cadet leader without the goal of awards or special privileges. 10: Dr. Albert with Cadet Matthew Moore 2019 and his parents, Mark and Emelia Moore. Mr. Moore received an honorary First Captain award for his courage, and his dedication and support to the Academy.
7
4
8
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
2
3
5
9
6
10
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
5
1
2
4
5
Formal Parade — May 25, 2019: 1: First Captain Alan Cameron 2019 and the Battalion Staff 2: Frank Morley S1963, the 2019 Honored Old Boy, gives the commencement address. 3: Cadet Alec Hawksley 2019 gives the valedictorian speech.
3
Commencement Exercises — May 25, 2019: 4: Tom Stocks presents a diploma to Cadet Ellie Allen 2019, the first female graduate of SJNMA. 5: Cadet Franklin Schreurs 2019 receives his diploma from Michael Henn, chair of the SJNLA Board of Trustees (left), and Tom Stocks. 6: Cadets wait next to the stage to receive their diplomas. 7: First Captain Alan Cameron 2019 and Tom Stocks pass the SJNMA flag to Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020 as he becomes battalion commander of the 136th Corps of Cadets. 8: Cadets Merlin Ryan 2019 (left) and Angel Sardina Contreras 2019 9: A group of cadets from Mexico pose for photos after walking through the Alumni Gate at the conclusion of Commencement Exercises.
6
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
6
2019 Year-End Senior Awards Cadet Alec Hawksley 2019 – Valedictorian, Colonel Frank W. Mouso Medal Cadet Anders Rhode 2019 – Salutatorian, The Order of the White Rose First Captain Alan Cameron 2019 – Doctor Delafield Trustee’s Medal Cadet Santiago Canale Cardenas 2019 – Priscilla Rose Medal Cadet Anuar Esteban 2019 – Elizabeth Ross Smythe Medal Cadet Shao Peng Huang 2019 – James T. Regas S1951 Most Likeable Senior Award, Most Respected Senior Award Cadet Hongbo Jia 2019 – Zelma Garriot Morris Medal Cadet Matthew Moore 2019 – Alexander Roth Senior Leadership Award, Marion Graves Senior Speech Award
7
8
Cadet William Tuttle 2019 – President’s Medal in Honor of Gen. Douglas MacArthur
Letterman’s Banquet Awards 4-Sport Letter Winners: Cadet Santiago Canale Cardenas 2019 – Soccer/Swimming/Track/Raiders Cadet José Rodarte Soto 2019 – Soccer/Swimming/Track/Raiders
3-Season Varsity Letter Winners: First Captain Alan Cameron 2019 – Cross-Country/Trap & Clays/Raiders Cadet Nicholas Halyard 2019 – Football/Basketball/Track Cadet Denzel Legree-Simmons 2019 – Football/Basketball/Track Cadet Sean McHugh 2019 – Football/Basketball/Track Cadet Aanish Mehta 2019 – Football/Basketball/Baseball Cadet William Tuttle 2019 – Cross-Country/Swimming/Raiders
9
Cadet Damian Williams 2019 – Soccer/Track/Silver Rifles Cadet Gerald Gittens 2020 – Football/Basketball/Baseball Cadet Chan Young Jun 2020– Football/Swimming/Track Cadet Haydn Bensch 2021– Football/Basketball/Golf Cadet Ben Mbengue 2021 – Football/Basketball/Tennis
Midwest Classic Conference Scholar Athlete Award – Cadets José Rodarte Soto 2019 and Ellie Allen 2019 Dolly Gray Medal (Scholar Athlete) – Cadet Anders Rhode 2019 White Knight Award (Sportsmanship) – Cadet Nolan Fritsche 2020 Pattee Brothers’ Award (Top Athlete) – Cadet José Rodarte Soto 2019
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
7
2019 COLLEGE CHOICES Ellie Allen – Undecided
Shao Peng Huang – Indiana University
Julian Rivera – University of Northern Iowa
Aziah Backus – University of WisconsinMadison
Ziheng Huang – Curtin Singapore
Alex Robbins – Marquette University
Hongbo Jia – University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign
José Santiago Rodarte Soto – Tecnológico de Monterrey
Xiao Jiang – Curtin Singapore
Samuel Root – University of Kansas
Jacob Kastelic – Undecided
Merlin Ryan – University of Illinois at Chicago
John Keefe – Marquette University
Angel Sardina Contreras – Arkansas State University
Jacob Boas – Family Business Sean Bornschlegl – University of North Dakota Marden Camacho Ruiz – Tecnológico de Monterrey Alan Cameron – Syracuse University Santiago Canale Cardenas – Tecnológico de Monterrey Brett Steele Carlson – Creighton University Luis De León – Pennsylvania State University Yunyi Deng – Ohio State University Nicholas DiFranco – Augustana College Anuar Esteban – UDLAP Universidad de las Americas Caleb Faucher – Madison Area Technical College David Garza Assad – Tecnológico de Monterrey Nicholas Halyard – Undecided Kyle Harris – Madison Area Technical College Alec Hawksley – Northern Kentucky University Noah Hill – University of Kansas
James Kelley – Undecided Douglas Kirkhofer – University of WisconsinMadison
Franklin Schreurs – Hamline University Alen Shchekin – University of Kansas
Joshua Layton – Morehouse College
Maoteng Sun – Pennsylvania State University
Denzel Legree-Simmons – University of Dubuque
DiKim Teel – Northern Arizona University
Yuxuan Lin – Curtin Singapore Grayson Mair – University of WisconsinMilwaukee Sean McHugh – Undecided Aanish Mehta – San Jose State University Matthew Moore – United States Military Academy at West Point
William Tuttle – United States Military Academy at West Point Patrick Walmsley – St. Norbert College Zachary Wheeler-Savoy – Northwood University Damian Williams Gamba – Milwaukee School of Engineering Junsu Yoon – Purdue University
Brock Noll – Gateway Technical University
Zexin Zhang – Northern Michigan University
Marcus Pechous – University of WisconsinWhitewater
Zhigang Zhang – Rutgers University
Anders Rhode – University of WisconsinMadison
Yu Zhou – Auburn University Yue Zhou – University of Massachusetts at Amherst
The senior class sings the Academy’s alma mater around the 2019 class stone on May 24, 2019.
8
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Administrative Staff Changes
New Faces and New Roles At the conclusion of the 2018-2019 academic year, St. John’s Northwestern made several administrative staffing changes. Welcome all new staff members and congratulations to those who transitioned to new positions! Thomas D. Stocks III S1969, President Tom Stocks joined SJNLA as chief financial officer in August 2018 and became president in April 2019. He is the founder and managing member of Elston Capital Partners, LLC. Prior to forming ECP, he was a managing director with Starboard Capital Partners, LLC. His earlier experience includes operating experience as the CEO of The Park Corporation, investing and capital raising at The Buckingham Group and Trivest, Inc., as well as several years of financial experience including three CFO positions in middle market companies and earlier junior positions at Fortune 500 companies. He attended Wabash College and holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. “My vision in the intermediate term is that SJNMA will become known as ‘a center of academic excellence, outstanding leadership training and cutting edge character development.’ Longer term, I would like to see us become known simply as the best boarding school in the country, but I would settle for the former for now. From a personal point of view at this point in my life, I feel the opportunity to spend time with our young people is a tremendous blessing.”
Tom’s top three initiatives are to: 1. Significantly grow enrollment. 2. Secure our finances for the next few years until we are able to launch a game-changing capital campaign. 3. Enhance all communications with cadets, parents, alumni, faculty, and staff. Fun fact: “I run outside every day for at least 60 to 90 minutes and have not missed a day in 38½ years.” Eric Wozniak, Ph.D., Headmaster Eric Wozniak joined SJNMA in 1996 as an instructor and taught a variety of courses including physical science, environmental science, computer programming, and physics. In 2012, he became director of technology and academic dean in May 2018. He became headmaster in April 2019. He earned a Ph.D. in leadership from Cardinal Stritch University. He also holds two master’s degrees, one from Carroll University in teaching and learning and another from Marian University of Fond du Lac in educational technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in secondary education (broadfield science and chemistry) from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Eric is married to Teresa and they have a son, Anthony.
“My vision for the Academy is that it be a place where cadets discover and develop their passions and learn that the ability to lead is within us all. I want to see our graduates become leaders of character, competence and compassion who use their talents in service toward a brighter future for themselves and others. Through their leadership, I want to see our cadets enable others to realize their own leadership potential and create a better future for themselves. In this way, the Academy will serve to help create a world of equity, justice and peace where highquality leadership is no longer a rarity.” Eric’s top three short-term goals are to: 1. Strengthen the alignment and supportive structures between academics, cadet life, athletics, spiritual life, and leadership development. 2. Create mechanisms for improved communication between cadet and adult leadership along with enhanced mentoring strategies including an integrated advisory program. 3. Develop “Centers for Leadership of the Future” pathways to include technology, engineering, innovation, medical, health, biotechnology, business development, and entrepreneurship. Fun fact: “I have so many varied interests and hobbies that I have difficulty making time to do them all (e.g., books, movies, woodworking, cooking, writing, miniature painting, tennis, shooting, guitar, juggling, fishing, gaming, photography, computers). I go through periods of obsession with one then switch to another and so on, round and round!”
Continued on next page THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
9
Jeffery Grant, Chief Financial Officer
2. Provide the necessary support for a sustainable, scalable and growing enrollment.
Jeffery Grant joined SJNLA in May 2019 as chief financial officer. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member within the accounting program at Lakeland University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His professional background includes a blend of both for-profit and non-profit organizations for many industries as well as public accounting at PricewaterhouseCoopers. Previously, he served in the chief financial officer and vice president roles at Kenosha Community Health Center, Milwaukee Center for Independence, and Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Jeffery is a CPA, and has earned his insurance and securities licenses. He holds both a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and a Master of Science in taxation from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He grew up in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, and his extended family still resides in the area. With all the time he has spent in Lake Country over the years, he feels that coming to SJNLA is like coming home.
3. Plan for adequate, appropriate and replicable funding for the capital, endowment and general purposes.
“My vision for SJNLA is to establish a profitable model for growth in alignment with our trustees, leaders and staff as the premier academy in developing boys and girls to become young adults of sound mind, body, character, and leadership, and enabling them to achieve their best possible success in life.” Jeffery’s top three initiatives are to: 1. Deliver sound governance, leadership and stewardship that is in sync with responsible planning, investing and his fiduciary responsibility.
10
SUMMER 2019
Fun fact: “I am an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Wisconsin Badgers.” Stephanie Ihler, Academic Dean Stephanie Ihler became interested in both teaching and second language acquisition after studying and living in Japan for four years. She is licensed to teach secondary English as a Second Language (ESL), Japanese and English in Arizona, Indiana and Wisconsin. She joined SJNMA in June 2010 as an ESL instructor and became academic dean in April 2019. She has a Master of Arts in curriculum and instruction (ESL) from Arizona State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in communication arts and sciences (telecommunication) and a Bachelor of Arts in East Asian languages and cultures (Japanese) from Michigan State University. Stephanie’s family loves to travel, take long road trips, and camp outdoors, especially to places near the Great Lakes or an ocean. She loves to read, take long walks, watch Michigan State basketball and football games, and attend concerts. “My vision is for SJNMA to be known as an academy of academic excellence, an academy that exemplifies servant leadership throughout the community, and an academy that provides students with every opportunity to pursue their personal interests and future goals. The sky is the limit!”
Stephanie’s top three initiatives are to: 1. Increase the number of course options by adding new, relevant and challenging honors courses in core content areas. 2. Develop a character-based advisory program that builds community and connections both inside and outside of the Academy. 3. Create time in the schedule for clubs and scholastic competition teams, such as debate, Model UN or DECA, to allow students to pursue personal interests and skills. Fun fact: “I used to be a certified scuba diver! I have dived in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia, Bali, Indonesia, Phuket, Thailand, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!” Paul Borens, Dean of Admissions Paul Borens joined SJNLA in April 2019 with 21 years experience in admissions and financial aid. He was director/ dean of admissions at Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) for 10 years, then served as director of financial aid and dean of admissions for two years at Northland College in Ashland, Wisconsin. His career continued at Ruffalo Noel Levitz, Inc., as a senior consultant in financial aid services working with colleges and universities across the country on enrollment and revenue management. After seven years as a consultant, he returned to MSOE to lead the STEM and Project Lead the Way department for two years. During his career, he has also been a high school girls basketball and boys track and field coach in his hometown of Marshfield, Wisconsin, and an assistant womens basketball coach at MSOE for four seasons. He has been married to his wife, Linda, for 10 years and has a 24-year-old son, Zach.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
“My vision for SJNMA admissions is to increase enrollment by implementing strategies that increase the awareness of the values of an SJNMA education, in and out of the classroom, and align our affordability with those values.” Paul’s top three initiatives are to: 1. Work with our current and past families and identify students interested in leadership and military academies to promote the value of a SJNMA education. 2. Implement the Academies Scholarship to help families understand that we are here to help them with the affordability of our academy and investment in their cadet. 3. Implement a proactive approach to financial aid that leverages our aid from the initial inquiry stage through the entire admissions process. Fun fact: “I love fishing and last summer, I caught a 41” musky on Oconomowoc Lake.” Duane Rutherford, Director of Major Gifts Duane Rutherford joined the Academy in 2005 as director of enrollment services with extensive experience in the military school field. He became vice president of enrollment and marketing in 2015 and then director of major gifts in May 2019, reporting to Stephen Matz, dean of advancement. He began his career at Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, Virginia. From 1994 to 2002, he served as a resident faculty officer, senior resident faculty officer, middle school drill and ceremony instructor, dorm parent, and deputy commandant. He was promoted to director of admission in 1998. In 2002, he became director of admissions at St. John’s
Military School in Salina, Kansas. He and his wife, Judy, have been blessed with two sons and two daughters, and four grandsons and one granddaughter. “My vision is to identify and build relationships with potential donors who have the capacity and desire to support the mission of St. John’s Northwestern. SJNMA has a place in today’s world and we need to tell our story.” Duane’s top three short-term goals are to: 1. Begin building new relationships. 2. Expand the Academy’s prospect portfolio. 3. Develop a strategy specific to our international community in regards to giving. Fun fact: “Cooking is my therapy, and I am a dedicated Pittsburgh Steelers fan.” Valerie Ward, Vice President, Marketing and Communications Valerie Ward joined SJNLA as vice president of marketing and communications in April 2019. She has a Bachelor of Science in marketing from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. During her 25+ year career in traditional and online marketing, Valerie has amassed a unique blend of industry experience working within Fortune 50, sole-proprietor, educational, religious, and non-profit organizations. The Ward family has substantial experience with the Academy, with four family members attending. As a result, she personally understands the decision process a parent goes through in deciding to entrust their child to the Academy and the benefits of an SJNMA education.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
“My vision for the Academy is to support Mr. Stocks in establishing SJNMA as ‘a center of academic excellence, outstanding leadership training and cutting edge character development. From a personal point of view, with four family members attending this academy, it has always been an aspiration to work with this incredible institution. I feel very fortunate for the opportunity to help shape St. John’s Northwestern’s future as part of its leadership team.” Valerie’s top three professional priorities this calendar year are to: 1. Streamline communications, starting with parents. The marketing department recently conducted a communications effectiveness survey asking parents which communications are most valuable, how they prefer to receive them, and the topics they want to read. 2. Increase the Academy’s public relations efforts. St. John’s Northwestern, including its current families, alumni, staff, and faculty, have incredible success stories, backgrounds and accomplishments that deserve to be heard. A key initiative is to share those stories and highlight the difference that SJNMA has made in so many lives. 3. Clearly define the SJNLA brand. From general knowledge pieces to the cadet and parent handbooks, there have been many changes at the Academy and updates to policies and standards. By redesigning materials with a consistent look, feel and tone, it will allow others to obtain a greater understanding of what SJNLA has to offer and greater brand differentiation. Fun fact: “I have a musical theatre and improv comedy background.”
SUMMER 2019
11
SJNMA Raiders Return to Paradise F
or the third time in six years, SJNMA Raider challenge team members competed in a JROTC Raider Challenge meet on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, the weekend of May 3-5, 2019. Unlike the past two meets in 2015 and 2017, this time SJNMA entered three four-person teams in the competition: two all-male teams and one combined team of two males and two females. Unfortunately, being the first year SJNMA admitted females to their ranks, SJNMA did not have any female cadets physically ready to take on the challenge of a Raider competition. Therefore, LTC Jim Kebisek, senior Army instructor at SJNMA, sent an email to all 32 schools in Hawaii and Alaska competing in the event asking if they were willing to collaborate with SJNMA and create a mixed team. Within an hour, LTC Kebisek received a phone call from CSM Garo at Roosevelt High School in Honolulu stating, “We have two highly motivated cadets who would love to take the opportunity to be part of your team.” As a result, SJNMA had its first coed Raider team consisting of two male cadets, one from China and one from Mexico, and two females from Hawaii. The Hawaiian version of a Raider meet was much different than those conducted on the mainland. Events that were somewhat the same were a 10K Run, Push-Ups, Sit-Ups, Tug of War, and Rope Bridging; however, their rope bridging was much nicer between palm trees on a beach next to the ocean! Other events included Tire Balance, Truck Tire Flip, Water Can Pull, Inverted Crab Walk, Beach Run (with five-gallon water cans), Litter Carry, Buddy Carry, Ammo Can Military Press, 1/4-Mile Open Water Swim with Life Jacket, and Outrigger Canoe Race. Although SJNMA Raiders practiced for the Outrigger Canoe Race in Gerber Pool at SJNMA, the event was cancelled due 12
SUMMER 2019
to high waves and heavy rain. Of the 64 competing teams, the primary SJNMA all-male team placed fifth overall. Although our combined coed team put forth great efforts, in the end proved no match against the other coed teams that had been working together and practicing the events for many weeks prior. After the competition, the SJNMA Raiders relocated to the Hale Koa Hotel in Honolulu, the U.S. Armed Forces hotel right on the Waikiki Beach. Over the next three days, in addition to swimming, surfing, and starting their summer suntans or sunburns, cadets climbed to the top of Diamond Head and visited Pearl Harbor where they toured the “Mighty Mo,” the USS Battleship Missouri, the ship where World War II ended on the main deck with Japan signing the surrender document to General Douglas MacArthur who officiated the event. In addition, the USS Missouri was the ship that fired the first missile round at Baghdad during the first Gulf War, known better as “Desert Storm.” All in all, the trip was a huge success and making it more special was the fact that parents of First Captain Alan Cameron 2019, and Cadets Santiago Canale 2019, Luke Hayden 2020, and Anders Rhode 2019 joined for the competition and the sightseeing. Without ongoing support from parents such as these, trips like this could not be possible.
ABOVE, TOP: The Academy’s three teams, which included 10 SJNMA cadets and two Hawaiian female members. (Photo by Lisa Iaquinta, mother of First Captain Alan Cameron 2019) MIDDLE: Team members participate in the beach water Jug Carry. BOTTOM: Team members get ready for the timed Rope Bridging event.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Esprit de Corps “I love Silver Rifles! It makes you feel
pride and happiness to know that you are part of something so important and significant. My favorite part of being on this team is that we are all very close, and it teaches you that even the smallest things count.” – Cadet Anuar Esteban 2019, Mexico
“Silver Rifles isn’t just people doing
SJNMA Silver Rifles Drill Team Places 10th at Nationals
E
very year, the SJNMA Silver Rifles drill team participates in the JROTC National High School Drill Team Championship in Daytona, Florida. This year, under the direction of Cadet Anuar Esteban 2019, drill team commander, the team, which was composed of almost all new members, placed 10th in the Challenge Division with 35 schools total. On a foggy, cool Thursday morning of May 2, 2019, the 15 dedicated members of the drill team boarded a plane heading for Orlando, Florida. Only 30 minutes after landing, the team was practicing in their hotel’s parking lot for each of the four events they would compete. Seeing 15 high school students spinning rifles in the parking lot was definitely a startling surprise for many bystanders, who formed a nearby crowd to watch the team.
Under the command of Cadet Sean Bornschlegl 2019, the SJNMA Color Guard placed seventh. Finally, the team blew away the judges on the exhibition drill pad with a routine, which placed fourth. In addition, Cadet Esteban placed fifteenth in the Armed Commander competition. The SJNMA Silver Rifles drill team celebrated their hard-earned successes at Universal Studios in Orlando on Sunday, May 5. In the words of MSgt Jim Cieslewicz, SJNMA Silver Rifles advisor, the drill team has “a potential to take it all” at the national competition in 2020. The new drill team commander, Cadet Skyler Chauff 2020, completely agrees. Article by Cadet SGM Skyler Chauff 2020
cool and sharp movement and then receiving praise from the audience. It is an indomitable spirit. It’s a spirit that even when the drill sergeant is yelling in our face during the inspection, we can still answer his question correctly and calmly.” – Cadet Junkang Wu 2020, China
“Before I arrived to SJNMA, I didn’t even
know Silver Rifles existed. I thought I wasn’t going to go to the drill nationals because I wasn’t as good as I should be. Skyler Chauff and Anuar Esteban recognized my efforts and gave me a spot, and after all I have gone through this year in Silver Rifles, I learned to never give up if you love something because all your efforts will give results.” – Cadet Antoine Karam 2022, Mexico ABOVE, LEFT: SJNMA Silver Rifles drill team after the awards ceremony. BELOW: Cadet Antoine Karam 2022 during Armed Inspection.
On competition day, Saturday, May 4, the first event the SJNMA Silver Rifles would compete in was Armed Inspection. The drill team members were asked U.S. Army, current events, and historical knowledge questions by tempered drill sergeants. Although 10 out of the 15 members of the team included international cadets, the team placed eleventh for inspection. The next event was Armed Regulation Drill, where the team would complete a 60-command armed sequence of movements and placed thirteenth. The third event was the Armed Color Guard. THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
13
“This class has been a blast! I have learned so many
things and tried so many new foods. I tried jellyfish for the first time, learned how to use chopsticks, learned Chinese table etiquette, and learned so many new words I could have a conversation with myself. I like Chinese a lot, and it is my third language. I enjoyed the field trip a lot, and learned even more. I would be happy to have that experience again any day. – Cadet Jeronimo Gonzalez Tijerina 2023
”
“This has been one of the best years of my life studying a foreign language. One of the fun activities
ABOVE, TOP: Cadets in Spanish classes attend Latin American dance shows. MIDDLE: Cadets Maximo Patron 2023 (left) and Carmen Butler 2023 practice using chopsticks at Asiana. BOTTOM: German 1 class enjoy German food at Café Bavaria in February 2019.
in class was the Chinese project that made the cadet research a part of Chinese culture or holiday. The project I did was about the legend of the Chinese festival. I also learned the history of the Chinese Moon Cake, a classic Chinese dessert. During the year, I was introduced to the Lunar new year. This is the equivalent to Christmas/New Years for westerners, and it was quite interesting to see the other Asian cadets celebrate it. Also, we went to a Chinese restaurant and learned more about Chinese culture. I found the field trips and the activities in class to be fun. – Cadet Thomas Wysockey 2021
”
ABOVE, RIGHT: Cadets in Chinese classes dine at Fortune Restaurant.
14
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
International Connections
Cadets Experience Foreign Language Outside the Classroom Cadets in foreign language classes at SJNMA practice their foreign language speaking skills and experience what they are learning in the classroom by participating in field trips throughout the school year.
Spanish In fall 2018, cadets in Spanish classes attended a morning of two different dance shows. The first was focused on Latin American dances like the Merengue, Salsa and Cumbia. The performance showcased these plus many more and allowed them to see dance around Latin America. The rhythmic bombos (drums) and the spectacular magic of Boleadores captured the cadets’ attention. The second show was “Traveling Through Spain.” The performance began with Zarzuela, a tradition from the King’s Court in the 16th century, and La Jota, a folkloric dance accompanied by castanets performed in authentic regional costumes. Following up with various versions of Flamenco dancing, the cadets were also exposed to traditional versions of Sevillanas and Rumba. Between dances, they were treated to live classical guitarists performing a variety of traditional Spanish music. To conclude the day, they ate lunch at a traditional Mexican restaurant. In May 2019, Spanish classes, along with the Foreign Language Exploratory class, attended a Latin dance workshop led by Imani Jalil, a Milwaukee native and member of Panadanza Dance Company. This exciting and interactive workshop gave cadets a taste of Latin dance and culture. Cadets donned traditional Mexican skirts and Fedora hats to practice and perfect two different dances. Beforehand, cadets tasted traditional Spanish tapas, which are small snacks typically served before dinner or in tapas restaurants. Some tapas they tasted were Tortilla Española (an egg, potato and onion omelet/quiche), Patatas Bravas (spicy potatoes), and Tres Leches cake (three milk cake), which was everyone’s favorite!
Foreign Language Exploratory (FLEX) In September 2018, cadets in Foreign Language Exploratory (FLEX) went to Asiana in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, to celebrate the end of their Japanese unit by learning about different eating customs. They went to eat Bento Box lunches and sit on tatami floors. Itadakimasu (“Let’s eat!”)
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
In April 2019, cadets in the FLEX class had an in-class field trip where they invited some Chinese cadets to their classroom to talk about real Chinese food versus American Chinese food. They ordered take-out from a local Chinese restaurant and learned that American Chinese food is nothing like authentic Chinese food from China! Also during the school year, the FLEX class went to see a German singer and presentation with the German 1 class.
German According to Cadet Ricardo Nuñez 2020, “In the German 1 class, we had various field trips including a German concert. The concert was in a high school near SJNMA. The German concert was about basic stuff such as body parts, time, basic actions, etc. It was very interactive for everyone to dance and jump. Personally, I liked this experience because we had the chance to meet new people, including some German foreign students. After the concert, we went to a Bavarian restaurant. First impression of the restaurant was great. I really felt like I was at a Bavarian restaurant in Germany. When the waiter, dressed as a traditional German, arrived with the menu, we were surprised to see it was in German. At first it looked very confusing, but after carefully analyzing it, we managed to have an idea of what things were (of course with some help from Mrs. Kloth). Most of us ordered the traditional schnitzel with homemade pasta. Schnitzel is like fried chicken. We all enjoyed it! For dessert, we all had apfelstrudel (apple pie). This apple pie was also amazing! After this field trip, we all learned new German words, traditional food and traditional clothing.”
Chinese Chinese classes went to Fortune Restaurant in West Allis, Wisconsin, for their field trip and learning outside their Chinese classes. Before the field trip, cadets learned chopstick use, Chinese dining etiquette, and ordering food by using Chinese language in classes. The field trip provided cadets with a first-hand learning experience that included ordering food, practicing and using chopsticks, and tasting Chinese green tea, jasmine tea, and chrysanthemum tea.
SUMMER 2019
15
Academics
2020 “Band of Brothers” Europe Trip
March 10-19, 2020
Join us for this unique opportunity to tour major World War II battle areas. Space is limited to 35 individuals, so sign up soon! St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy is offering current cadets and their parents/guardians an opportunity to visit World War II battle areas and sites in England, France, Belgium and Germany in March 2020. The trip will begin with a guided sightseeing tour of London followed by visits to many sites including the Churchill War Rooms and Imperial Museum in London, D Day beaches and American Cemetery in Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge and Waterloo Battlefields in Belgium, and a guided city tour of Munich, Germany, to include a walk through the death camp at Dachau, Germany. The trip cost for cadets under the age of 21 is $3,876 (adults 21 and older is $4,361). In addition, cadets will have the opportunity to earn three elective college credits for $240 from the University of Colorado Springs. The tour includes round-trip airfare and other transportation, centrally located three- and four-star hotels, daily breakfast, local guides, and more as described in the itinerary. For the full itinerary and to register, visit: www.educationaltravel.com/Kebisek-9249. For questions, contact LTC Jim Kebisek at (262) 646-7228 or jkebisek@sjnma.org.
16
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Ways to Give
More Than One Way ... R
ecognized or not, an advancement professional’s work can be described through several idiomatic expressions. I often find myself murmuring some of the following throughout the day: “it’s up in the air,” “back to the drawing board,” “the ball is in their court,” “best thing since sliced bread,” and “there’s method to the madness.” One in particular seems appropriate for our focus and purpose of this article as it can be directly applied to your support of our Academy: “more than one way to crack an egg.”
Stephen Matz, Dean of Advancement
One might surmise that “cash is king” when it comes to supporting a non-profit. And although that has its roots in some truth, the reality is that financial support can come in many forms that are equally desirable. Outlined below are opportunities to make it convenient for just about everyone.
Online Giving (www.sjnma.org/donatenow): Quickly becoming one of our most popular avenues to support the Academy. To donate online, the average time is three minutes and 22 seconds. You can set up recurring donations on weekly, monthly and now yearly occurrences.
Check: The time-tested method of support. Donations via check can be mailed to:
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy Attn: Development Office 1101 Genesee Street Delafield, WI 53018-1498
Note: You can use the Academy gift envelope included within this issue of The Beacon.
Phone: Our office staff loves to chat! Give us a call at (800) 234-9097 or (262) 646-7118 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday. We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express.
AmazonSmile: Select “St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy” as your charitable organization at smile.amazon. com and every eligible purchase you make will result in a 0.5% donation to the Academy - at no cost to you.
Stock Transfers: A method becoming more common for mid- to large-giving. Selling stock provides advantages to both sides of the equation. Stock can be directly transferred to our TD Ameritrade account. For this method, you’ll need the following information:
Depository Trust Co. Number (DTC #): 0188 For further credit to: Account #427-334340 TD Ameritrade 15375 W. Bluemound Road, Suite 100 Brookfield, WI 53005 (262) 785-3161
Sponsorship: More and more opportunities are becoming
available. Whether through an event or athletics, if you and/or your business would like to become involved, we will make sure that we find the right opportunity to meet your needs.
Volunteerism: Throughout the academic year, the Academy cannot provide the quality education and experience for our cadets without the support of volunteers. From Midwinter Ball to The Excalibur and the Fall Fest Fundraiser, volunteers help our academy thrive. It’s also a great way to see firsthand how our young leaders are growing.
Planned Giving: A vital part to any non-profit, planned giving can strengthen the Academy’s future in a variety of ways. Consult with your financial planner, but as you do, know the Academy has great opportunities to work within your financial goals.
These are just a few of the options available. To those who already support the Academy, thank you for your continued support. For those who have yet to engage with the Academy, we encourage you to become involved. As you can clearly see, when it comes to supporting St. John’s Northwestern, there is more than one way.
Mark Your Calendar! December 3, 2019 Day of Giving
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
12/3
SUMMER 2019
17
Development Update
Each spring, the Academy hosts its largest fundraising event of the year to help meet operational needs. Despite unusually low temperatures and a snowstorm, 250 guests were in attendance in Farrand Hall Gymnasium on Saturday, April 27 to enjoy an elegant evening of celebration with a formal dinner, auction and more!
Leadership Academies effective April 1. Tom remarked about growing up in Delafield, attending the Academy as a day student, and returning now as head of school 50 years later. He highlighted a few items of the strategic plan moving forward and clearly stated that the Academy’s brightest days lay ahead.
Celebrating the retirement of our 16th president, Dr. Jack H. Albert Jr., and welcoming our 17th president, Tom Stocks S1969, this year’s fundraiser was like no other. Renamed The Excalibur: President’s Gala, the black tie event not only raised money to benefit every cadet, teacher, program, and department on campus, but it also provided the opportunity to properly recognize the Academy’s change of leadership.
The Excalibur: President’s Gala raised a remarkable $271,950! This includes $135,700 for the FUND-A-NEED to upgrade the furniture in the barracks that will help ensure our cadets are always comfortable in a room they spend most of their time and study in. An additional $78,350 was raised before, during and after The Excalibur to help establish The Jack & Betty Albert Endowed Scholarship Fund. The Albert scholarship will provide the financial assistance necessary for cadets to attend the Academy and benefit from an outstanding academic curriculum, valuable leadership training, unique program opportunities, and more.
Dr. Albert announced in September of 2018 that he would retire as president in June of 2019. He joined the Academy in 2004 following successful tenures at three other military academies and head of school at two of them. In honor of his 15 years of valued service, Dr. Albert was presented a “Key to the Academy” from Mike Henn, chair of the SJNLA Board of Trustees. Mr. Henn also formally welcomed President Stocks who became the 17th president of St. John’s Northwestern
THANK YOU to everyone who celebrated with us and supported the gala! It was an overall fantastic success and further proof that we are indeed surrounded by a genuinely supportive community. There is much more to accomplish for those we serve, and we simply cannot do it without you.
Thank you to our TOP SPONSORS of The Excalibur: President’s Gala! The Excalibur is deeply grateful for your generous and enthusiastic support. Presidential ($10,000): Fred and Teri Leach S1974 – Trustee Beacon ($5,000): Bob and Karen Hawksley – Parents Schneider Wealth Management of Wells Fargo Advisors – Trustee
18 18
ISSUE YEAR SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
1
2
3
4
1: (left to right): Mike Hoover S1971 and parents, Margarida Laub, Barb Hoover and Dr. Ed Mann
5
2: The Patron family enjoyed the gala with their cadet, Maximo Patron 2023. 3: Reserved tables await our top sponsors at the event. 4: Dr. and Mrs. Albert were honored as our newest members of the Knights of the Round Table for having gone the extra mile to ensure The Excalibur’s success for each of the past 15 years. 5: To conclude the special evening, Dr. Albert bid a final farewell with his “Hip! Hip! Hooray!” salute as 2,000 balloons were released from above the dinner tables.
Funding for barracks furniture is moving forward throughout the summer. If you would like to make a gift, contact Stephen Matz, dean of advancement, at (262) 646-7184 or smatz@sjnma.org.
THE BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy
Your continued support makes all this possible. Please SAVE THE DATE for next year’s Excalibur event on Saturday, April 25, 2020, during Spring Families Weekend! Contact: Cindy A. Trione Director of Donor Relations and Special Events (262) 646-7289 ctrione@sjnma.org
SUMMER ISSUE YEAR 2019
19 19
Leaders Circle Reception Thank you, Leaders Circle members! We are grateful and honored to have your loyal support.
T
he spirit embodied by the Academy’s Leaders Circle inspires all of us to do just a little more. So, to this very special group, we say thank you! This annual gift club was formed in 2007 to recognize generous and loyal donors who have sustained our efforts in supporting every cadet, teacher, program, and department on campus. Through leadership gifts of $1,000 or more to the Annual Fund, Leaders Circle members demonstrate their commitment to the SJNMA community, make a significant and lasting impact, and inspire others to follow. This year’s Leaders Circle reception was held in Welles Dining Hall on Friday, May 24 during Commencement & Reunion “ This place has done more for me than I thought a school could. It helped me prepare, not just for the following years, but for life.” – Cadet Jeronimo Gonzalez 2023
Weekend. Guests enjoyed champagne and refreshments followed by a formal appreciation program. Prior to recognizing each member in attendance, Cadets Jeronimo Gonzalez 2023 and William Tuttle 2019 spoke to the group about their Academy experiences and how the generosity by so many has impacted their lives. All Leaders Circle members in attendance were individually announced and thanked by President Tom Stocks. New members received Leaders Circle lapel pins and those who elevated to a higher level of giving received new pins. Members of The 1884 Society were also recognized for committing to a three-year pledge to the Annual Fund of $1,884 or more each year. “ As I continue on my journey to West Point, I am appreciative of all that this school has given me: great mentors, teachers and coaches, friends I will keep for the rest of my life, and most importantly the skills to attain success.” – Cadet William Tuttle 2019
Save the date ... for The Heritage Society Appreciation Dinner,
Thursday, October 3, 2019 in Welles Dining Hall.
20 20
ISSUE YEAR SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Leaders Circle Statistics for Fiscal Year 2019 (July 1-June 30):
170 household members 41 first-year members 13 members elevated to a higher level
67 alumni 58 parents 15 faculty/staff members
Collectively, Leaders Circle contributions total a notable $2,390,559!
1
2
3
4
1: Jervis and Dianna Webb S1960 have generously renewed their Leaders Circle membership for each of the 12 years it has been in place. 2: Junkang Wu 2020 received his new Premier level Leaders Circle pin from President Stocks. Cadet Wu is a six-year cadet who has been enrolled since 2014. Choosing to give back to his school with money he earned himself, Cadet Wu is a fine example of cadets who give their best.
Leaders Circle Levels Diamond ($25,000+) Ruby ($10,000-$24,999) Sapphire ($5,000-$9,999) Emerald ($2,500-$4,999) Premier ($1,000-$2,499)
3: Leaders Circle members and parents, Karen Hawksley (left) and Amy Choi, enjoying the reception. 4: New Leaders Circle members Scott and Angila Allen received their Premier level lapel pins from President Stocks. Their daughter, Ellie, is the first female graduate in the 135-year history of the Academy.
The 1884 Society Levels Diamond ($25,000+) Ruby ($10,000-$24,999) Sapphire ($5,000-$9,999) Emerald ($2,500-$4,999) Premier ($1,884-$2,499)
THE BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy
For more information about the Leaders Circle or The 1884 Society, contact Cindy A. Trione, director of donor relations and special events, at (262) 646-7289 or ctrione@sjnma.org.
SUMMER ISSUE YEAR 2019
21 21
Old Boys Alumni Association
A Message from the OBAA President Old Boys Alumni Association Board of Directors 2018-2019 Officers Chuck Krametbauer S1978 President Jim Hoover S1976 1st Vice President John Bartizal S1986 2nd Vice President David Zirngibl 2002 Treasurer Michael Dayton S1971 Secretary
Board Members Charles Allen S1985 Cory Byrnes 2009 Nikki Cummings 2016 J. C. Fairvalley II S1976 David Hess S1959 Michael Hoover S1971 Keith Pabish S1977 Ted Roth S1974 Bill Sanders S1974 Greg Van Praag S1972 Pete Waskel S1976 Bill Wiles S1966
Congratulations to the class of 2019! Also, congratulations to Tom Stocks S1969, our new president of SJNLA, and Mike Henn H2016, our new chairman of the SJNLA Board of Trustees. I am looking forward to working with both of these men. I want to congratulate your OBAA executive board members. During this year’s vote, I was re-elected as president, 1st vice president is Jim Hoover S1976, 2nd vice president is John Bartizal S1986, treasurer is David Zirngibl 2002, and secretary is Michael Dayton S1971. Another successful Commencement & Reunion Weekend is complete. I can’t believe how quickly the weekend went. My wife and I traveled to campus approximately 10 days prior to Reunion Weekend for rest and relaxation. Back the Lancers in January 2019 was also so much fun visiting with alumni and playing basketball. Thank you to everyone who attended and donated items for the OBAA Chris Madding Memorial Golf Outing on July 19. Don’t forget to attend Homecoming & Families Weekend on October 5 and be sure to join us for the OBAA Pig & Chicken Roast from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Please sign up with Anita Kopaczewski, director of alumni, at (262) 646-7220 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org. I want to thank everyone who volunteered their help at each of the events throughout the year, especially Price Davis. A special note to two wonderful people, Jack and Betty Albert, who will be sadly and dearly missed as our Academy moves forward. In closing as I have said before, I’m so glad to be a part of this great organization as the OBAA president of our Academy. Alumni, please support our great Academy because without your support we cannot grow and we cannot produce outstanding young men and young women. Please give generously. “Your best teacher is your last mistake.” Charles “Chuck” Krametbauer S1978 OBAA President
H.M./Davidson and Smith/Slavin Walkway Brick Program
Donate a brick in memory of a classmate or engrave a brick in your name! For a tax-deductible gift of $300, a brick can be personalized with the name and year, as appropriate. For more information about the H.M./Davidson and Smith/Slavin Walkway Brick Program, call the alumni office at (262) 646-7220 or (800) 234-9097.
www.sjnma.org/donatenow 22
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Reunion 2019
Reunion 2019 Anniversary Classes Ellsworth “Mike” Mills N1944, Reunion Weekend grand marshal
75th Reunion – Class of S1944
Front row (left to right): Brian Sebastian N1994, Thomas Barrett S1994 and Juan Carlos Barocio S1994; Second row: Joaquin Vallarino S1994, Brian Moros S1994 and Marco Cabello S1994
25th Reunion – Class of S1994 and N1994
Front row (left to right): Eric Lee and Christopher Heinrich; Second row: Cory Byrnes, Michael Smaniotto, Jonathan Bradley and Jeffrey DiPuma; Third row: Marcin Wasilewski, Jacob Van Zeeland and Kenny Hall
10th Reunion – Class of 2009
50th Reunion – Class of S1969 and N1969 Front row (left to right): Rick Nelson N1969, Scott Pace N1969, Cap Pfeiffer N1969, Reinhardt Jahn N1969, Joe Lazzara S1969, Tom Stocks S1969, John Krezel N1969, Charlie Bartlett N1969, Joe LaRocca N1969, Russ Luedke N1969, Denny Baldwin N1969, Chuck Castle N1969 and Scott Palmer S1969; Second row: John Filkins N1969, Paul Donnan S1969, Van Mehlos S1969, John Kurtz S1969, Scott Lefever S1969, Scott Trapp S1969, Bill Elmy N1969 and John Caro S1969; Third row: Mitch Davis S1969, John Caro S1969, Rolf Schou N1969, Bill Risatti N1969, Jim Cunnigham S1969, Earl Bash S1969 and Dennis Strevel S1969
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
23
Reunion 2019 Honorees
(left to right) Frank Morley S1963, Honored Old Boy; Warren Marik S1963, Distinguished Service Award; Ellsworth “Mike” Mills II N1944, Notable Man of the Academy Award; George L. Voltz S1949, Notable Man of the Academy; and Lynette Ahlgren, Honorary Old Boy
Frank Morley S1963, Honored Old Boy Frank Morley of Glenview, Illinois, is chairman of the Western Golf Association for 2018-2019, leading the Evans Scholars Program during a period of crucial growth. He is the WGA’s 67th chairman, following two years as vice chairman. “I’m honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead an organization with such a rich history and tradition of service to the game of golf and to deserving young men and women,” Frank said when he was elected. “Our golf championships are among the game’s oldest and most prestigious, and I’ve experienced firsthand how the work of the Evans Scholars Foundation is changing the lives of caddies and their families.”
24
Frank and his wife, Susan, are longtime supporters of the Match Play Challenge, the Evans Scholars Foundation’s major gifts campaign, which has raised more than $58 million to support caddie scholarships since 2011. Frank worked in the fine-printing paper distribution business for 41 years, including 23 years as the co-owner of Midland Paper Co. in Wheeling, Illinois. He is a member of Conway Farms Golf Club in Lake Forest, Illinois; North Shore Country Club in Glenview, Illinois; The Old Collier Golf Club in Naples, Florida; Club Pelican Bay in Naples, Florida; Stock Farm Club in Hamilton, Montana; and Ballybunion Golf Club in Ireland.
Warren Marik S1963, Distinguished Service
Since becoming a WGA director in 1993, Frank has served in several key leadership roles, including seven years as tournament chairman of the BMW Championship. His two-year term as chairman comes as the Evans Scholars Program strives to meet its goal of growing from a record 965 Evans Scholars enrolled at 19 leading universities this fall to 1,000 by the year 2020. The Program is working to partner with additional universities as it expands from coast to coast.
Warren Marik was born June 30, 1945, in Berwyn, Illinois, a Chicago suburb, and graduated from SJNMA in 1963. A two-year cadet, Warren’s nickname was “Mr. Clean.” He was a Lieutenant in Delta Company and a member of the class board of directors. During the class stone ceremony, he was “keeper of the plumb” and a member of the officer’s club, MidWinter Committee, director of DeKoven Club, Honor Guard, Silver Rifles, and football team captain.
One of Frank’s top priorities is to continue raising the money needed to cover escalating tuition costs and underwrite plans to grow the Evans Scholars Program.
Warren attended the United States Military Academy at West Point and went on to serve in the U.S. Army Security Agency in Turkey, Florida, and
SUMMER 2019
Vietnam from 1965 to 1969. He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign in 1971. An active member of the Old Boys Alumni Association, Warren served in a variety of capacities to include president of the OBA from 1991-1993. He currently devotes his time and talent to assist as a founding member of the Chicago Chapter of Alumni, which was formed in 2018. The alumni chapters were created to assist the Academy in fun and fundraising. Currently, there are 23 different chapters around the nation and one in Mexico.
Ellsworth “Mike” Mills II N1944, Notable Man of the Academy The first memory of NMNA for Ellsworth “Mike” Mills was going by train from Chicago to Williams Bay, boarding a Lake Geneva cruise boat, and disembarking at the school dock. Led by Supt. Col. Davidson to an outdoor tent village, he camped for 10 days before getting his room assignment in Davidson Hall. Mike fondly remembers the school’s Thanksgiving Day “picnic feast” and the delicious turkey pot pies that followed. Soon after the December furlough ended, daily “rifle exercises” to a drum beat began, preparing the cadets for the graduation performance. Mike was ‘B’ Company Commander. As a Plebe (freshman), Mike earned extra merits by participating in weekly Guard Mount formation and passing daily room
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Reunion 2019 inspections. Springtime brought the outdoor breakfast hike around Lake Geneva to the Yerkes Observatory. In the spring of 1944, Mike enlisted in the U.S. Navy V-5 Fighter Pilot training. He graduated NMNA on June 6, 1944, the same day Omaha Beach was stormed, D-Day.
coal mine engineer, he lived in a “holler” similar to those in the movie “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” Later the Voltz family moved to Harrisburg, Illinois, where George’s father joined the Peabody Coal Co. allowing for George to attend SJMA. George graduated in 1949 as First Sergeant of Alpha Company.
On July 1, 1944, Mike reported for pilot training duty, continuing until August 1945 when WWII ended. Mike was honorably discharged in April 1946. Finishing his education in 1948 at Northwestern University majoring in production engineering, he planted roots in Highland Park, Illinois. with wife Betty, working primarily as an industrial salesman in the metal-forming industry, retiring in 1990.
After working briefly as a coal miner, George enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, married Millie Estes, and had three children: Leslie, George Jr. and Wade (S1978). During his Air Force career, George and Millie lived in Texas, Montana, Michigan’s “UP” and Indiana at Grissom AFB. To make ends meet, George sacrificed time with family to earn extra pay on overseas hardship tours. He flew 35 missions in Korea as a radio ECM operator and 54 missions in Vietnam as a refueling boom operator earning four Air Medals, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Good Conduct Medals, National Defense, multiple Korea Service Medals and Vietnam Service Medals, Air Force Longevity Service Award, Presidential Unit Citation, Small Arms Expert, United Nations Award, and the Korea Service Medal awarded by the Korean Government. After 20 years of service, George retired as a Master Sergeant. From there, George worked for Radio Shack, advancing from store manager to a vice president position, retiring in 1980. After that, he opened Logansport Shooters
Civic-minded, Mike was elected precinct committeeman 29 times, and served as vestryman and senior warden at Trinity Episcopal Church; member and chairman of the Highland Park Traffic Commission for 13 years; Boy Scout assistant leader for 14 years; and in 2007, member and commander of American Legion Post 145. Betty passed away in October 2008. Mike has four children, three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
George L. Voltz S1949, Notable Man of the Academy George L. Voltz was born in Harlan County, Kentucky, in 1931 and passed away in Indiana in 2014. The son of a
Supply with his sons. Finally, George was a valued member at Hendrickson Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership in Monticello, Indiana. George was a Third Degree Mason in Lodge 101, Marquette, Michigan, an L’Anguille Practical Pistol League founding member, and a National Rifle Association life member. He performed ballistic testing for firearm and ammunition manufacturers and probono training for the Logansport Police. George volunteered at Guardian Angel Hospice, as a Logansport Memorial Hospital EMT, and active at Trinity Episcopal Church, serving as bible study leader, senior warden of the Vestry, and food pantry helper.
Lynette Ahlgren, Honorary Old Boy Lynette Ahlgren began at SJNMA in the spring of 2000 as a library assistant and archives manager. In the fall of 2008, she became the administrative assistant in the academic office. Lynette is the recipient of the 2005 Nita Farrand Staff Excellence Award, and currently serves the Academy as its registrar. As the director of Maker Space, she worked with cadets after school to share ideas, foster innovation and build creations in a hands-on environment. Lynette’s achievements at SJNMA include coordinating Midwinter Ball, chaperoning cadet social activities, assisting with updating the museum/ archives displays, and coordinating the book “Historic Register of Academy Men Who Served Our Country.” She has faithfully worked alongside her husband and science department chair, Scott Ahlgren H2011, for 28 years. Lynette’s dedication to mentoring 19 years of graduating seniors and hundreds of undergraduates has earned her the honorary title of Honorary Old Boy.
Congratulations! THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
25
Reconnect. Reunite. Re-establish. Stay engaged and involved with the Academy! Greetings Alumni, Remember that life at SJNMA does not end when you graduate; it continues, grows and thrives! During the course of my 16 years at SJNMA, I have managed to stay in touch with many alumni, both nationally and internationally, and have interacted with many newer graduates whom I have met over the years. The things we share are an appreciation of the principles and practices that are learned here, and the long-lasting friendships formed here. Both our business and our personal lives have been enriched through our associations at SJNMA with many of those former classmates having gone on to colleges to earn prominent positions in their chosen professions. The OBAA Board of Directors represents a major sector of the Academy alumni population. As alumni you are part of it. Our board’s primary objective is to advance the mission of the Academy by promoting stronger relationships among the alumni population. We serve as advocates for the SJNMA alumni family, and we work to provide an infrastructure that facilitates meaningful relationships between the Academy and its alumni. My primary objective as alumni director is to increase the ways in which we interact and build closer relationships with our alumni. I want to keep you excited and motivated, so that 26
SUMMER 2019
you will be more active in participating at events such as Fifth Thursday alumni gatherings and alumni chapter meetings. You can find many upcoming events on the back cover of The Beacon magazine. The Brewers vs. Cubs baseball game is the most popular event in September. You might also be interested to know just what our Alumni community does: The OBAA board directors have not only spoken at various lectures to our cadets, but also represent the Academy alumni on various other volunteer committees. We serve as mentors to current cadets as well as to other alumni and are actively involved in mentoring new cadets, ensuring that the SJNMA experience continues through graduation and beyond. We encourage alumni to contribute to social media posts on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and elsewhere by adding their pictures, posting when they attend an Academy-sponsored or OBAA event, and sharing Academy news. Please consider volunteering as a mentor, speaker or attendee at alumni events by contacting the alumni office for more information. In addition, we welcome alumni participation in one of our alumni chapters forming in your state. We hope that you will be encouraged to join the OBAA board.
In the last fiscal year, 23 alumni chapters have formed. I had the honor of visiting Denver, Houston, Chicago, and Portland area gatherings with more visits to come. Let’s keep growing. Contact me to be your state’s or city’s representative. Finally, and most importantly, we ask that you contribute. You will not only make a difference through your contribution, but you will also help to increase the value of the education you received to assist others. Please remember, it is not the amount that you give, but the fact that you give that makes a difference. In any case, wherever you go in the world, you always have a place at SJNMA. On behalf of your beloved Academy, we look forward to seeing you on campus. Reconnect. Reunite. And re-establish relationships!
Anita Kopaczewski H2009 Director of Alumni
Ask me about
the Final Salute to our departed alumni.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Alumni Office Update
Alumni Chapter Meetings Portland 1: (left to right) Mathieu LaCrosse S1994, Dr. Richard Meyer S1957, GC Healy S1967, Jim Paulk S1962, Bruce Speidel S1963 and Seth Cheshire S1999
The inaugural meeting of the SJNMA Pacific Northwest Alumni Chapter took place on April 23, 2019, at the downtown Hilton Hotel in Portland, Oregon. A group of 16, including spouses and guests, attended. The chapter is led by Dr. Richard Meyer S1957 of Salem, Oregon, and GC “Griff” Healy S1967 of Newburg, Oregon. The men are eager to reconnect and network with others in the area. Contact the alumni office if you want to join their chapter or connect with the men directly on Facebook.
2
1
Denver The SJNMA Denver/Rocky Mountain Area Alumni Chapter held its inaugural meeting on June 26, 2019, at Wooley’s Classic Suites in Aurora, Colorado. 3: Alumni and spouses attending included (left to right) Lance Lindholm S1984, Cindy Lindholm, Lila Stair, Ralph Stair S1963, Peter Hellman N1962, Bill Pirie N1962, Steve Shapland S1966, Jen Dimiceli, Mark Dabrowski S1995, Anita Kopaczewski, Tony Dimiceli S1993 and Victor Galarza S1992.
3
Chicago 2: (left to right) Kyle Popek 2000, Charles Allen S1985 and Warren Marik S1963
Kyle Popek 2000, Charles Allen S1985 and Warren Marik S1963 of the Chicago chapter met on May 5, 2019, at the University Club in downtown Chicago to plan ways they can meet the needs of the OBAA constituency in the Chicago area. They are one of 23 alumni chapters across the nation. THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
27
LTC Adrian Traas, USA Ret., S1953 of Alexandria, Virginia,
is a visiting scholar at the U.S. Army Center of Military History at the Fort McNair campus in Washington, D.C. He recently wrote two in a series of 10 Vietnam War commemorative pamphlets, “Turning Point, 1967-1968” and “Transition, November 1968-December 1969,” which are available for free at www.history.army.mil. Chuck Windsor S1953, a retired civilian aide to the White House,
donated to the SJNMA library the book “Excuses, However Valid, Do Not Accomplish the Mission” by COL Robert Manns S1953, USAF (Ret.), his classmate and friend for more than 65 years. Windsor said, “It’s Robert’s personal memoir ... growing up, becoming educated, serving with distinction and high honors (including a Silver Star) in the U.S. Air Force for 24 years and reflecting in retirement. It is an enjoyable read reflecting his set of values, his honesty, his candor, his humor, and his sense of duty. As I read it I found myself standing up a little straighter. It is an invigorating book about a wholesome life. A superb role model for all.” Bruce and Geiselia Borin S1958
Bruce Borin S1958 visited
campus on May 17, 2019, with his wife, Geiselia. They were traveling through Wisconsin from Camarillo, California. Borin had not been on campus since 1958.
Hal and Kathy Pettit S1968 with their children, Andy (far left) and Jen (second from right).
Hal and Kathy Pettit S1968 celebrated their 50th wedding
anniversary in May 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a high school couple, they attended two Midwinter Balls and numerous football games. His roommate at SJMA, Tim Shafe S1968 (D), was their oldest child’s godfather. Dr. Mark Denny Baldwin N1969 reflected on his experience
at NMNA before his 50th reunion in May 2019. Currently, he is chair of the Department of Internal Medicine at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences in Yakima, Washington. He has achieved many things throughout his medical career, but he says none of them would have been possible without the Academy. While most of his classmates are retiring, he chooses to continue working. He has always been involved with education, medical students and physicians, a love he says began with some good teachers at NMNA. While NMNA no longer exists, he likes that the spirit is alive at SJNMA.
Scott Palmer S1969 published his book,
“Why Sane People Believe Crazy Things,” in October 2018.
Lon B. Isaacson S1966 in Italy
Lon B. Isaacson S1966 assiduously followed the Academy
precept of “work hard, play hard, pray hard” by taking a spring break from his labors building quality housing for the next generation in Los Angeles. To reward his property manager, he hosted a Gala Tour of Italy in April 2019. During the trip, he visited the Enzo Farrari Museum in Modena to study and indulge his fascination with those famous “Prancing Horses” in preparation to choose a Ferrari to augment his classic Mercedes Benz car collection. 28
SUMMER 2019
Steve and Cheryl Murphy S1977 in Chicago
Steve and Cheryl Murphy S1977 enjoyed a Cubs game
in Chicago with tickets they bid on during the 2018 Fall Fest Fundraiser silent auction.
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Alumni News
Jason Sharp 2005 (left) and Charlie Hernandez 2011
Jason Sharp 2005 met with Charlie Hernandez 2011 at George Washington
University in Washington, D.C., on April 30, 2019, where Charlie is spearheading that area alumni chapter. (left to right) Gustavo Baz S1980, Marcel Leon Pradella-Casaz S1979 and Sean Lane S1981
Marcel Leon Pradella-Casaz S1979, Gustavo Baz S1980 and Sean Lane S1981 reconnected after 38 years. On April 3,
2019, they enjoyed dinner at Kampai Japanese Restaurant in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, and shared fun stories of their times at the Academy.
Andrew Bradt 2009
Andrew Bradt 2009 visited
campus on April 8, 2019. He is a marketing agent at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County in Wisconsin.
Jihyuk Kang 2013, Charlie Hernandez 2011, Jason Sharp 2005 and Ben Doran 2005 met on April 29, 2019, in
Washington, D.C., to share Academy stories and reminisce.
(left to right) Jihyuk Kang 2013, Jason Sharp 2005 and Ben Doran 2005
Joshua Seckinger 2004 (center) with SJNMA instructors (left to right) Jon Bennett, Tim Shramek H2012, Tim Vice, and Perry Siebers H1997.
Joshua Seckinger 2004 visited SJNMA on April 26, 2019. He
currently lives in Bozeman, Montana, and works at Fishing Guide. Paul Megalis 2005 and his wife, Allison, of Hinsdale, Illinois,
welcomed a baby boy named Nicolas Francis Megalis after their fathers on March 31, 2019.
THE BEACON | St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy
SUMMER 2019
29
Military Men in Service
Alumni Col David Keesey S1986 completed the Doha Marathon on January 11, 2019.
He is currently serving as the senior defense official and defense attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Doha, Qatar. Connor Schmid 2013 graduated from technical school at Keesler Air Force Base
in Mississippi on July 2, 2018. He currently works as an air traffic controller at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.
Jordan Flaherty 2014 was commissioned as a U.S. Army officer during a ceremony on April 29, 2019, at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He will serve in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and go to Fort Benning for Armor Basic Officer Leadership Course in July 2019 and Army Reconnaissance Course in November 2019. Evan Demarais 2017 was awarded an Army Achievement Medal on March
Col David Keesey S1986
12, 2019, for retrieving a crew from an overturned Bradley, which is designed to transport infantry or scouts with armor protection while providing covering fire to suppress enemy troops. Alexander Kraft 2018 successfully completed his Air Force Security Forces
Training on January 10, 2019.
Evan Demarais 2017 (second from left) receiving an Army Achievement Medal.
Connor Schmid 2013 (second row, second from right)
Faculty CSM Eric David, commandant at SJNMA, was called to active duty for one year beginning in
June 2019. He joined the Academy in June 2012 as a resident faculty officer, and has served as deputy commandant and worked with Summer OPS and Camp St. John’s Northwestern in several capacities. He has been with the Wisconsin Army National Guard since 1998. After two combat deployments, he spent a few years training future officers in the Army’s OCS program at the Regional Training Institute at Ft. McCoy, and currently serves as the Command Sergeant Major of the 1-128th IN. in the Red Arrow Division for the Wisconsin Army National Guard. We wish him success and safe travels on his assignment. In his absence, Brandon LaVictor, deputy commandant, and SSG Zachary Spreitzer, operations officer, are managing the resident life department. CSM Eric David
The SJNMA Alumni Office thanks everyone who serves and will continue to update our men in the service of our country. 30
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Taps
Alumni Abelardo Luis (Rod) Rodriguez S1936 (non-graduate)
passed away October 23, 2018, on his 100th birthday in Oakwood, California.
Frank Godchaux III S1944 passed away February 13, 2019,
in Abbeville, Louisiana. He received the Notable Man of the Academy Award in 2011.
Peyton A. Muehlmeier S1947 of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin,
passed away January 12, 2019. As a very young man, he joined the U.S. Navy during WWII. His brother, Courtenay S. Muehlmeier S1943 (deceased), was already fighting in the Pacific and later died at Iwo Jima. P. Muehlmeier was stationed on Midway Island until his brother’s death, wherein as the sole surviving son, he returned home. After graduating from SJMA, he attended the Colorado School of Mines. While in Colorado, he mined for gold and honed his love of skiing. He married Ruth and started a family. He first became a builder where he and his business partner constructed homes in the areas of Brookfield and Elm Grove, Wisconsin. Then they pioneered new lodging designs with the iconic glass domed tropical atriums and the founding of the full-service Midway Motor Lodges that spread throughout the Midwest. John R. Weiser S1947 of Beloit, Wisconsin, passed away April
18, 2019, in Janesville, Wisconsin, at the age of 90. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Beloit College. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving with the U.S. Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. He married Mary E. Sheppstrom in February 1961 in Rockton, Illinois. Weiser was the owner and operator of Bud Weiser Motors for 50 years. He was an avid runner and bicyclist for more than 45 years, working out every day religiously. He was a member of the Beloit Rotary Club for more than 50 years with perfect attendance. He was a member of the First Congregational Church in Beloit and was on the board of directors for the Salvation Army.
The SJNMA Alumni Office thanks all alumni who provide us with information on your fellow classmates. Please continue to notify us at (262) 646-7220, (800) 234-9097 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org.
THE BEACON BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy THE
William (Bill) Lynch S1948 passed away January 26, 2019,
in Dublin, Ohio, after a brief illness. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, on January 3, 1930, to Roy and Emily Lynch. He graduated from SJMA in 1948 and Purdue University in 1952, and then was drafted into the U.S. Army. After his military service, he went to Dayton, Ohio, and began his career at Inland Division of General Motors where he met his future bride, Lois Dabbelt. The couple married on February 9, 1957. During his career at GM, he advanced to senior project engineer. Upon his retirement in 1987, Mr. and Mrs. Lynch set out to fulfill their travel goals. He is survived by his wife, sons, William Jr. (Cece) and James (Beverly), and daughters, Betsey, Barbara (Michael Hoover), and Kathleen (Kevin O’Mahoney). He enjoyed spending time with his six grandchildren, Cory, Katherine, Kevin, Patrick, Sean, and Colleen. He donated his body to Wright State University, and he will be interred at The Columbarium on campus. Nicholas Scheidegger S1948 passed away July 11, 2018. He
lived in Waterloo, Wisconsin.
William “Bill” Leppert N1951 passed away October 10,
2018, in St. Charles, Illinois. He was valedictorian and a multi-time Chidester and Roger Star recipient at NMNA. He graduated from Princeton University and served two years duty in the U.S. Navy. He earned masters and doctorate degrees from Northwestern University. For nearly 40 years, he was a professor who taught at St. Dominic College and the College of DuPage. He was happy to hear when the Academy began admitting female cadets. Thomas Craig Parish N1952 passed away October 25, 2018,
in Lanthrop Village, Michigan. He was a top 10 scholar and a talented artist at NMNA. He graduated from The College of William and Mary in 1957, The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 1960, and received his masters from the University of North Dakota. He was a retired professor emeritus from Wayne State University where he taught painting for 45 years. A few weeks prior to his passing, he finished his last 10 paintings for the Venice 2019 exhibition later this year.
continued on next page
ISSUE YEAR SUMMER 2019
31 31
Alumni continued
Bruce Blugerman S1955 passed away March 26, 2019, in
Russell Ackley S1958 passed away May 23, 2019, in Pewaukee,
David J. Braze S1957 passed away January 21, 2019, in
Robert A. Andresen N1958 of Chicago, Illinois, passed away
Port St. Lucie, Florida. He was a two-year cadet in band, choir, football, track, baseball, honor guard, and silver rifles. He graduated from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1959 as a commissioned Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and after graduation, attended airborne and ranger school. Upon completion of service, he went to California to work in public relations with the entertainment business and eventually became comedian Paul Lynde’s publicist and business manager. He went to New York City and started his own public relations firm called Spectrum, handling numerous clients in the performing arts such as musicians, choreographers, composers, and dancers. He sold his business and retired to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and then moved to West Palm Beach, Florida. He was buried at All Saints Cemetery in Delaware, and was preceded in death by his twin brother, Robert Blugerman S1955, who passed away in 1978. Charlottesville, Virginia.
Wisconsin. He was interred in The Columbarium on June 5, 2019. He graduated from Ripon College in 1962, and served in the U.S. Army as a Ranger in the 82nd Airborne Division during the Vietnam War and retired as a Captain in 1967. After military service, he returned to Pewaukee where he served on the Pewaukee Village Board of Trustees and later as a Town of Delafield supervisor. Ackley had many passions. He loved to cook Chinese food. He spent many hours designing, rearranging and maintaining his many gardens with a particular affinity for hostas. He also had a great love of art, and particularly loved to paint. When illness took the use of his right hand, he taught himself to paint with his left. The one passion that never waned throughout his life and that he passed to his children was his love of sailing and the Pewaukee Yacht Club. He started sailing at the age of eight, and sailed in various fleets until his sixties and then became deeply involved in race management. August 30, 2018, from a long fight against lung cancer.
Contact: Anita Kopaczewski Director of Alumni and Director of The Columbarium (262) 646-7220 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org
Visit us online at www.thecolumbarium.com
32
SUMMER 2019
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy | THE BEACON
Michael Nicholas Peters N1958 passed away February 15,
2019, in Rockport, Texas, following a brief illness.
Stuart Alan Messnick S1963 (non-graduate) passed away
February 7, 2019, in Cody, Wyoming. He was a reporter for ABC News and covered stories such as the Prado Dam break and the Bobby Kennedy assassination, and went on to work with investigative reporter Dave De Soto on KABC radio in Los Angeles. He learned to do color commentary from Bob Beattie, and covered ski races for Wide World of Sports. He also had a brief show on TV called “Ski Set.” With his resonant voice, he became successful doing voice-overs and commercials, and for many years, he was the voice on the Monorail and Pirates of the Caribbean rides at Disneyland. He also was an early member of Walt Disney’s private dining room Club 33 at Disneyland. Bruce Nowak S1965 passed away March 14, 2019, in Jackson,
Michigan. He was enlisted in the U.S. Army, and worked 41 years at Vickers Engineering in Three Oaks, Michigan. For 31 years, he spent Friday nights refereeing high school football. He was an avid sports fan, loved Notre Dame, and enjoyed NASCAR, golf and Bingo. He was actively involved with Life Group at his church.
John (Jack) “Bubba” Edward Looze, Jr. S1967 passed away
October 31, 2018, in Englewood, Colorado.
Terry Beczak S1969 passed away June 14, 2019. He will be
interred at St. Casimir Cemetery in Chicago, Illinois.
Russell J. Kennedy (Johnson) N1986 passed away January
7, 2019, in Glenwood, Colorado, where he was a carpenter by trade. Born in Chicago, services were held in McHenry, Illinois, on January 24, 2019. Richard Turner S1986 passed away February 18, 2019. Bill Kappel 2003 passed away January 26, 2019, from injuries
he suffered from an auto accident in Charleston, South Carolina. He was a passenger in a vehicle that was hit by an impaired driver.
THE BEACON BEACON || St. St.John’s John’sNorthwestern NorthwesternMilitary MilitaryAcademy Academy THE
Douglas Ryan Felde 2004 passed away March 4, 2019, in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, of injuries sustained in an auto accident. His eclectic career most recently led him to AT&T as a fiber optic splicer and inspector. He was a talented cook, adept handyman, and had natural musical ability. He sang and played guitar, tuba, herald trumpet, and trombone. He was exuberant and joyful, and gleefully celebrated every day of his life. Robert Graham 2009 passed away February 7, 2019, in
Birmingham, Alabama.
Faculty and Friends Hugh Caldara passed away October 18, 2018, in Washington,
Connecticut, due to complications from cancer. At SJMA, he was a coach, faculty member and mentor to many cadets. He later worked in admissions at The Gunnery School in Connecticut.
John Meisenheimer, former history teacher at SJMA, passed
away December 19, 2018, in Dousman, Wisconsin, at the age of 81. Mark Moore, father of Matthew Moore 2019, passed away
June 7, 2019.
Meghan Stahl, wife of David Stahl 2006, passed away June 5,
2019.
Norm Sweet, former TAC officer at SJMA, passed away
December 8, 2018, in Friendship, Wisconsin, at the age of 88. Sarah Tobin passed away April 8, 2019, after a long fight with
POEMS Syndrome since January 2015. She was the wife of John Tyler Tobin S1967 living in The Villages, Florida.
Mary Eitel Zwieg passed away February 16, 2019, at the age
of 62. She was the sister of David Eitel S1960 and daughter of Max and Fern Eitel S1938 who provided food service for SJMA for more than 20 years.
ISSUE YEAR SUMMER 2019
33 33
NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID DELAFIELD, WI PERMIT NO. 14
St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy 1101 Genesee Street Delafield, WI 53018-1498
2019
Upcoming SJNMA Events 2020
July 19 ���������������������������OBAA Chris Madding Memorial Golf Outing,* Mount Prospect, Illinois August 29 ��������������������Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering, Minnesota September 5 ��������������Alumni Gathering Milwaukee Brewers vs. Chicago Cubs Baseball Game, Miller Park September 8 ��������������Founders’ Day Ceremony and Parade, SJNMA Campus October 3 ��������������������The Heritage Society Appreciation Dinner, SJNMA Campus October 4-6 ����������������Homecoming & Families Weekend, SJNMA Campus October 5 ��������������������Fall Fest Fundraiser, OBAA Pig & Chicken Roast,* and Inaugural “Smoker” Event, SJNMA Campus October 31 ������������������Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering, Indiana November 8 ���������������Veterans Day Ceremony, Farrand Hall Gymnasium, SJNMA Campus December 3 ����������������Day of Giving
January 30 ������������������Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering, Georgia January/February ����Alumni Gathering, Florida March 7 ������������������������Midwinter Military Ball, SJNMA Campus March 14 ����������������������St. Patrick’s Day Parade,* Chicago March ����������������������������Alumni Gathering Major League Baseball Spring Training, Arizona April 24-26 ������������������Families Weekend, SJNMA Campus April 25 �������������������������The Excalibur, Farrand Hall Gymnasium, SJNMA Campus April 30 �������������������������Fifth Thursday Alumni Gathering, Illinois May 21-23 �������������������Commencement & Reunion Weekend,* SJNMA Campus May 22 ��������������������������Leaders Circle Reception, SJNMA Campus
For more information on upcoming Academy events, visit www.sjnma.org
* To register online, visit www.sjnma.org/alumni/events.cfm
Don’t miss any of the action ...
Stay in Touch
Contact the alumni office at (262) 646-7220, (800) 234-9097 or akopaczewski@sjnma.org for event details and registration or to update the Academy with your news and information. Also, be sure to follow us online:
www.facebook.com/sjnma
twitter.com/sjnmaathletics
www.sjnma.org
Parents of Alumni: If The Beacon is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent residence at your home, or for any change of address, please notify the alumni office by calling (800) 234-9097. Thank you!