St. Thomas Eagles' Nest Fall 2018

ST. THOMAS HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Harvard-bound Valedictorian Juan Castillo ’18 Heads Academic Excellence

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President Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB Rises within Basilian Order Ranks

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COMMENCEMENT 2018 - CLASS ACTS P10 | NATIONAL ACCLAIM FOR EAGLES NEST P32 CLASS OF 2022 CHARTING CONFIDENT COURSE P14 | SPORTS HOF INDUCTEES P58 F all 2018

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Fall EVENTS

SEPT 29 .................... Eagle Eye Clay Shoot, Houston Gun Club OCT 5-6................... Homecoming Weekend OCT 19................... Alumni Rooftop Tailgate NOV 3....... Annual Auction & Gala, honoring Dona and Al Clay ’61

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DEPARTMENTS

23 EAGLE FLIGHT

Commencement 2018 with exceptional Senior Stories and continued national recognition for St. Thomas Fine Arts.

38 EAGLE SPIRIT

Vocational History Endures with Bishop Cantú ’85, Fathers Hust ’00 and Foltyn ’84.

NOV 10................................ Open House NOV 19............... Good Ole Boys Luncheon NOV 19-23 ........... . Thanksgiving Holidays DEC 20- JAN 3.............. Christmas Holidays SPRING 2019.......... 28th Annual St. Thomas Golf Tournament sths.org/calendars/

Eagles’ Nest Printed September 2018 The Eagles’ Nest is published three times annually by St. Thomas High School 4500 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007-7332 | 713-864-6348

Rev. James Murphy, CSB - Interim President Aaron Dominguez ’96 - Principal Mary Criaco - Assistant Principal Mark deTranaltes ’83 - Vice President for Advancement Rodney Takacs - Dean of Students Keith Calkins - Director of Communications Darla Arter - Layout and Design Assistance Provided By: Sebastian Domenech ’10, Catherine Chandler Some photos provided by STH Publications Staff Circulation 9,500 c2018

2 - Eagles’ Nest Summer 2010 2 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

50 EAGLE PRIDE

Young Eagle alumni renew St. Thomas bonds and brotherhood.

62 EAGLE FIGHT

Gary Hall represents new leadership for Eagle Basketball and St. Thomas welcomes latest inductees to its Sports Hall of Fame.

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FEATURES

Changing of the Eagle Guard Fr. James Murphy, CSB named interim president as Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB is elected Superior General of Basilian Order.

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Commencement 2018 - Class Acts “And as an alumnus, I welcome you to one of the most unique, elite and respected brotherhoods in the entire country.”

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“I’m energized by creating the standard, empowering people, delegating authority, rewarding good work. In essence, being a fostering member of our growing community.”

“There’s a lot of hard work, persistence and the Man upstairs that have gotten us to this point ... I value my time at St. Thomas. That was a disciplined culture that has stayed with me throughout my life.”

John Sage ’96 - Travel Agent of Change

Texans President Deeply Rooted in Success/Admiration for St. Thomas

Matt Toomey ’97 - State of the Bean Meets Art of the Shop

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“After the injury, it was ‘How do I load my wheelchair into my car? ... How do I travel in Europe? ... How will I continue my life?’ I’ll figure it out ... And I was not going to feel sorry for myself.”

Paco Magsaysay ’86 - What’s The Scoop?

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“My wife Melissa and I obviously wanted our son to be thoroughly prepared for the academic demands of whatever college he would choose and I knew right away St. Thomas provided that at the highest level.”

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LEADING OFF Former President Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB

Thanks to all of you who have congratulated me on being elected as Superior General of the Basilian Fathers. I’m not sure, however, that there is any role more significant than being president of St. Thomas High School! While moving to Toronto will enable me to live minutes away from my parents and family, I have lived at St. Thomas longer than any other place in my life and St. Thomas has become my home and will always be home in my heart.

I am so grateful to Fr. Jim Murphy and his willingness to serve the St. Thomas community. Fr. Murphy is a talented leader and a trusted friend and I have full confidence that we will continue our trajectory of academic excellence. Please be patient and supportive of Fr. Murphy, as you were with me, as he begins this exciting moment in our history.

After being at St. Thomas for the past 14 years, I have come to realize that the St. Thomas mission of teaching goodness, discipline and knowledge is not owned exclusively by the Basilian Fathers, nor is it the possession of our outstanding faculty and staff, nor our passionate alumni, students and community. The mission belongs to all of us and it has created a culture and community unlike any other that I have experienced. While my address has changed, I will continue to be an Eagle forever, Eagle Fight Never Dies! Thanks for the best friendships and memories, and please pray for me as I will for you.

Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB Former St. Thomas President 4 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

LEADING OFF Interim President Fr. James Murphy, CSB

When Fr. Storey was elected as Superior General of the Basilian Fathers, his life changed and so did mine. I am so honored to serve as President of St. Thomas High School. Since moving to Houston in 2011, I have worked in virtually every corner of this campus and I know that the past 118 years are only the beginning of our story. From the academic achievements of our students, to their successes on the stage and on the field, St. Thomas is a place where hopes and dreams are fulfilled.

I grew up in a family with seven sisters where love and joy were a constant.

Throughout this year I hope that our love for this school will continue to grow and that joy and laughter will abound. Join me in thanking God for the blessings of this sacred place.

Bright smiles, one and all.

Fr. James Murphy, CSB Interim St. Thomas President

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FEATURE

I

n a sudden development concluding an emphatically impactful six-year tenure that altered the future course of St. Thomas, president Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB was elected July 16 as the new Superior General of the Congregation of St. Basil and accepted those responsibilities immediately for a four-year term.

Campus Ministry Director Fr. James Murphy, CSB was named the school’s interim president during the 2018-19 academic year while the search firm Carney Sandoe & Associates conducts a nationwide effort to determine Fr. Storey’s successor.

“St. Thomas is extremely honored to have our president rise to the top ranks of the Basilian order,” said Mark deTranaltes ‘83, the Vice President for Advancement.

“Fr. Storey has been an amazing and dynamic presence felt in every corner of our campus community. He owns a rare optimism that is contagious, a passion

CHANGING OF THE BASILIAN GUARD

that is galvanizing. St. Thomas is certainly blessed for future success as a direct result of his vision. We are uniquely positioned with Fr. Murphy to seamlessly transition and continue our momentum as a premiere Basilian Catholic college preparatory institution.”

Fr. Murphy acknowledged that he is “honored to serve the St. Thomas community in my new role and asks for your prayers not only for myself, but for Fr. Storey, whose strong work in Houston has been a beacon for the entire Basilian congregation.

“Since moving to Houston in 2011, I have gained invaluable experience and insight into the inner workings of St. Thomas through every tier of this institution including the Board of Directors, faculty, fine arts, athletics, chaplaincy and discipline. I have a deep understanding and respect for what empowers St. Thomas to provide the very best college preparatory experience Houston may offer.”

“It is my full intention to bring enthusiasm and joy to our

campus and collaborate with this stellar faculty and staff. Let

us thank God for the continued opportunity to serve Christ

as we teach goodness, discipline, and knowledge.”

Fr. Storey becomes the Congregation’s 10th Superior General since its reunification in 1955. He had contributed to the General Council as Second Councillor since 2010.

“ “I am looking forward to continuing the rich legacy of

teaching goodness, discipline and knowledge to the next

generation of parishioners and students,” Fr. Storey said

hours after the appointment. “Basilian priests always

made the Gospel accessible for me as a student and we

have to imagine how to best preach Jesus today.”

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Fr. Storey served St. Thomas initially as a faculty member beginning in 2004.

After earning his Master of Education, Administrative Leadership from Basilian University of St. Thomas in 2011, he returned as president, succeeding Fr. Ronald Schwenzer, CSB, who had served in that role since 2006 after eight years as principal.

During his term as president Fr. Storey played an essential influence in elevating St. Thomas for future growth, including a prominent and pivotal position in the most ambitious capital campaign in school history. The $66 million 4500Forever included the single-largest donation in the institution’s history - a $10 million transformational gift from Dona and Al Clay ’61 that resulted in the naming of Clay-Storey Hall on the St. Thomas main campus, honoring both Clay and Fr. Storey, two inspired leaders who boldly stepped out to help advance an extraordinary period in St. Thomas history.

“I’m confident knowing that the Eagle academic community is in strong hands with the current leadership. I would like to extend my supreme appreciation for the endless support of so many during my time at St. Thomas, for the words of encouragement, wisdom, and guidance.

I am proud of what we achieved together.

It was my privilege to serve St. Thomas.”

– Rev. Kevin Storey, CSB

Months earlier, in December 2014, Fr. Storey spearheaded a $6 million matching gift from Jane and Bill Joplin ’54 to 4500Forever which ignited contributions of $14.6 million during an 11-week period.

In the spring of 2018, Fr. Storey was again instrumental in a leadership gift from Houston philanthropists Glenda and Russell Gordy, a $2.5 million pledge that matched all new offerings dollar for dollar through May 31 to complete funding for the Joplin Campus expansion through 4500Forever.

The campus expansion equips the Basilian Fathers with the necessary resources at the current 4500 Memorial Drive address to meet the ongoing needs of their diverse student body and further develop and enhance the educational mission established in Houston in 1900.

Under Fr. Storey’s stewardship in June 2017, Aaron Dominguez ’96 was named in a breakthrough appointment the 27th principal and first layman to assume that role in the school’s illustrious history.

Born in Madras (now Chennai), India, Fr. Storey moved with his family to Toronto when he was six-years-old. He spent a year at St. Basil’s Novitiate in Sugar Land and continued on the path of the priesthood as a Scholastic, obtaining his Master of Divinity from St. Michael’s University in Toronto.

He was ordained in June 1992 in St. Basil’s Church in Toronto. He holds a Master of Divinity from the University of St. Michael’s College and added to his seminary foundation with a Master in Pastoral Counselling from Assumption University in 1997 before a missionary assignment in Colombia from 2000-04 and then ministering St. Thomas.

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STOREY Shortly after the elation of winning the bid for the new property wore off, the reality of a $60 million dollar price tag set in. I immediately took to our alumni database, researching the previous capital campaign dating back over a 15-year time span. After crunching the numbers for a few days I brought my results to Father Storey and the presentation was not a chipper event. I was thinking of renaming the campaign from 4500Forever to Mission Impossible. The history was just not there. The numbers in the database clearly, and I mean clearly, stated this goal was out of our reach.

As soon as I was done Father Storey thanked me for the work, and then went on to give a five-minute homily about the Holy Spirit, about why we are here, and how the Spirit directs and guides our life. I came out of his office charged with that Spirit.

Upon returning to my desk I saw an inspirational meme online that read - Fortes, inquit, fortuna iuvat - Fortune Favors the Bold. There was that Spirit again sending me a message. I got up, wrote it on my whiteboard. That was almost six years ago ... it is still there today.

Mark deTranaltes ’83 Vice President for Advancement

Glenda and Russell Gordy Houston philanthropists

Father Storey owns a great passion for what he’s doing. He speaks of St. Thomas from the heart. We’re approached every day for sizable contributions, often by professional fundraisers. But when you come across someone who is directly involved and personally committed, there is a sincerity that you cannot overestimate.

He’s tenacious. Determined in all the right ways.

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Dona and Al Clay ’61

Ardent St. Thomas supporters

A great guy to work with and work for. We made some serious progress together.

I am delighted for you, Impressed but not surprised. You are blessed with exceptional instincts. I am certain you will do well in your new assignment.

George Romano ’64 John Rathmell ’75 St. Thomas Board of Directors

Father Storey arrived when St. Thomas was in need of his unique leadership capabilities. He didn’t have the obvious profile when the school was facing transition and the most ambitious capital campaign in its history but he navigated those challenges with amazing savvy despite lacking practical experience. I knew from our first introduction he had a force of character.

SENDOFF Father Storey owns an exhaustive source of optimism regardless of the situation ... an invaluable quality when operating from the top of an academic community.

He wasn’t afraid to accept challenges even though he wasn’t absolutely prepared for the demands. Before even settling into the president’s role he’s thrust with raising $60 million on the clock ... like drinking from a fire hose. But his love for St. Thomas and the Basilian Fathers is unmatched.

Mike Netzel St. Thomas Athletic Director

We truly enjoyed working with Father Storey throughout the 4500Forever capital campaign and watching him develop into a phenomenal leader as president. We will really miss him, his great enthusiasm and love for the school. Most of all we will miss having Christmas Eve dinner with him.

Our family wishes him all the best. He will remain in our thoughts and prayers as he begins his next journey. We believe the Basilian Fathers will be in good hands.

Suzanne and Danny Grant ’78 Ardent St. Thomas Supporter

Sergio Plata

St. Thomas Director of Operations

This is my 23rd year at St. Thomas. I saw Father Kevin as a teacher, a principal and a president.

He was proud to serve St. Thomas and always wanted the highest quality for the school. I once asked Father Kevin how he preferred a particular job done. And he said, ‘Sergio, you are the professional. You are the person who knows best.’ He always treated everyone regardless of their position with the utmost respect. No one was above or below in his eyes. I will miss him.

I’m sad to see him leave but I understand the opportunities God has for him in the future.

Paul Sofka ’56 You certainly have been very fruitful with your efforts at St. Thomas ... elevating the school to a much higher grade ... and have left us with a legacy which will be an inspiration to achieve even greater levels.

I will keep you in my prayers for your next glorious journey!

Father Kevin Storey is the most relentlessly positive person we have ever met. Further, he is also possibly the most authentic person we have ever met, and has always conducted himself consistent with his Basilian vows and the tenets of our Christian faith. Finally, he will always be remembered as one of the most courageous, visionary leaders that St. Thomas has ever had.

Amy and Bo Huggins Ardent St. Thomas supporters

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FEATURE

GRADUATION 2018

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CLASS ACTS E

xtraordinary academic acclaim with equal measure of due diligence and dedication to faith and service, all rooted in the Catholic Basilian credo of Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge culminated in the 118th St. Thomas Commencement celebrated at Granger Stadium.

The festive and colorful event recognized the exceptional achievements of 188 graduates who were awarded $13.5 million in merit-based scholarships to colleges and universities throughout and outside the United States.

At a time when St. Thomas is appealing to high-achieving scholars unlike ever before and providing students from wide-ranging backgrounds with a rigorous and caring intellectual environment, the faculty, family and friends saluted the Class of 2018 and their significant contributions to scholarship and learning during their Eagle careers, enlivening the Basilian mission with passion and talent while impacting the lives of people across the extended Eagle community without borders.

Tom Vaughn ’85, CEO of Vaughn Construction and a deeply dedicated school and Eagle community supporter, delivered the commencement address, sharing invaluable insights and his personal testimony with graduating seniors as they continue on the path to being lifelong learners, embracing the unpredictable world that lies before them.

Under largely clear skies Vaughn emphasized to the Class of 2018 that as they go through life their “St. Thomas experience will become more and more important to you. It’s hard to appreciate when you’re inside the St. Thomas bubble ... You’re going to have moments like I did when the light bulb goes on and you say ‘wow, I was really well prepared.’”

Before embarking on his esteemed professional career, Vaughn obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration with honors from Texas A&M University, and his Juris Doctor magna cum laude from the University of Houston.

“Before we can hope to meaningfully change the world, we must develop in ourselves those attitudes, virtues and values that will bring about the change we desire.”

For nearly a quarter century Vaughn has excelled in the construction industry, succeeding his father and Vaughn Construction founder Joe Vaughn ’62, serving as president or CEO for the previous 18 years. The company focuses on healthcare, education and research facilities, having seven offices in Texas, specializing in Construction Management at Risk and delivering some of the largest public design-build projects in the state.

Vaughn Construction is currently partnering with global architecture and design firm Perkins + Will to create a multidisciplinary science wing at St. Thomas that will give the institution an unprecedented environment for equipping college preparatory students as leaders in pursuing future scientific challenges.

Vaughn’s return to campus was particularly poignant given that Everett ’18 was extending the family’s rich St. Thomas identity, following his brother Jay ’15, and contributing to the deepest legacy class in the school’s illustrious 118-year history.

Vaughn stressed that the latest Eagle graduates should “not be ashamed of (their) Catholicity ... (and) not just those who were raised Roman Catholic. It encompasses the Greater Church, all Christians, all our beliefs, all our practices. Hold onto your core values because they will become tested, in college and in your professional life.”

In closing Vaughn offered a genuine request to those honored, to say “thank you to someone today. You may not yet fully appreciate your St. Thomas education but a great many have sacrificed to get you here ... parents, grandparents, generous donors, faculty, the Basilian Father ... Don’t wait for your light bulb moments. It may be too late. And as an alumnus, I welcome you to one of the most unique, elite and respected brotherhoods in the entire country.”

Valedictorian Juan Castillo accepted an extensive meritbased scholarship to attend Harvard University after considering similar opportunities at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and California Polytechnic State University.

He received the St. Thomas Achievement Awards for AP Physics II, Advanced Economics/ AP United States Government, AP Computer Science and Theology/Healing Racism.

Castillo challenged his classmates to continue living lives of leadership, to trust the Basilian GDK motto in directing “the attitudes we develop toward – Juan Castillo the world we live in, taking our Valedictorian 2018 place, albeit in a very small way, on the vivid stage that is global life ... to see the world from the perspective of a researcher, a linguist, a humanitarian, the list goes on ... effecting change in our own way with the friends we make, with the values we cultivate. But before we can hope to meaningfully change the world, we must develop in ourselves those attitudes, virtues and values that will bring about the change we desire.

“After inviting for so long the ideals of others, it’s time that we trust in our own knowledge and experiences to forge our own ideas and live a life in accord with them. And when our future becomes our present, it will be the product of our free will, our intellect and our indelible human dignity.”

Castillo and Salutatorian Kenneth Dang both earned Semifinalist distinction in the National Merit Scholarship Program’s 63rd competition along with Cooper Gottschalk and Michael Patton.

The four represented among the top one percent of scores taken from the PSAT and joined 28 previous St. Thomas scholars since 2010 who reached at least that phase in one of the nation’s most prestigious and long-standing academic competitions.

Henry Adair, Nathaniel Belcher, Nicolas Brito, George Fisher, John Horner, Mario Juguilon, Gabriel Meriano, Christopher Miller, Travis Rosenblad, Parker Rzasnicki and Mathew Soto were all recognized as National Merit Commended Students while Josh Falcone, Josh Gensheimer and Alex Whiteley were named National Merit Hispanic Scholars.

The elite group of National Merit recipients were among 44 senior members in the National Honor Society.

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FEATURE

CONTINUED

Dang received the St. Thomas Achievement Award for AP Biology and Theology/Sacred Scripture and leads another large St. Thomas contingent attending Texas A&M where he will study Engineering.

Perhaps the most inspirational moments of his Eagle years came during the September aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, the wettest weather event ever to hit the continental United States, soaking parts of the Greater Houston area during a four-day deluge with more than 50 inches of rain.

Orleans, Rice University, St. Edward’s University, Texas State University, Trinity University, Louisiana State University and Arizona State University.

Eagle scholars are also attending The Citadel, Johns Hopkins University, Fordham University, Loyola University Chicago, North Carolina School of the Arts, Northwestern University, the University of Pennsylvania, Pepperdine University, St. John’s University, St. Mary’s College of California and Vanderbilt University among many other prestigious institutions.

The flood damage, biblical in proportion, frightening to behold, “caused a panic and uncertainty but in that terrible disaster we also found love in one of the most difficult places to find it chaos,” Dang said.

Eleven St. Thomas student-athletes, including six to Division I programs, are extending their careers at the college level, increasing the number to 119 across nine sports since 2012.

“Love is taking care of others. Love is work. So in the midst of a fearful storm, I witnessed neighbors taking care of neighbors, Eagles taking care of Eagles, simply the human family embracing the human family with open arms. Maybe that’s when I began to realize what (former principal) Fr. (Patrick) Fulton meant when he told us (during our freshmen introduction) that God has brought us here to St. Thomas because He knew we needed to be here to find each other, to find ourselves in this great community.”

Eagle students relentlessly reeled in more than $574,000 in raffle ticket sales and raised the 2014-18 total to more than $2.6 million, all for tuition assistance for future Eagle students, a Basilian practice which dates for 91 years.

In addition to Texas A&M, multiple Eagle graduates will enroll at the University of Texas-Austin, the University of Texas-Dallas, Texas Tech University, Baylor University, the University of Houston, the University of Arkansas, Loyola University New

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Collectively the Class of 2018 provided superior leadership to fuel yet another phenomenal Round-Up fundraising effort which produced a record-smashing mark for the 15th consecutive year.

The historic and annual milestone proved triumphant - not only in the lives of those in and connected to the Class of 2018 - but in the life of the Catholic Basilian institution where their participation continued the great tradition of St. Thomas and deeply enriched the vibrancy of the 118th commencement celebration.

COMMENCEMENT 2018

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CONGRATULATIONS

Colorado S Colorado S University o WA MT

N OR ID

W

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WY

NV

S

May goodness, discipline and knowledge guide you in all your future success as you make a difference in the world.

Heading to more than 60 destinations, the class of 2018 St. Thomas graduates earned $13.5 million in merit-based scholarships.

UT CO

CA

AZ NM

Arizona State University (5)

Texas Tech Orange Coast College University (16) Loyola Marymount University Austin College Pepperdine University Saint Mary's College of California Schreiner University Trinity University (2) University of the Incarnate Word Chaminade University Texas State University (2) of Honolulu St. Edward’s Un HI Southwestern The University o The University of Texas Austin Commun

Baylor Un University of Mary Har 14 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

TO THE CLASS OF 2018!

The University of Oklahoma Oklahoma State University University of Tulsa Northwestern University Loyola University Norwich University Miami University Wittenberg University Oberlin College

School of Mines State University of Colorado at Boulder

ND

VT

SD

WI

MN

NE

NY

MI

NJ

IL

IN

MD DE

WV KS

MO

VA

KY

SC MS

AL

GA

niversity (3) n University of Texas (11) System (9) nity College

niversity (6) rdin-Baylor

Lafayette College University of Pennsylvania

The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina Vanderbilt University Rhodes College

TX

)

Fordham University St. John’s University

Elon University University of North Carolina

TN

AR

RI

Johns Hopkins University

NC OK

MA

PA OH

Harvard University

NH

CT

IA

ME

The University of Alabama

LA University of Arkansas (3)

FL

Loyola University (2) Louisiana State University (4) Louisiana Tech University Stephen F. Austin State University (3)

Texas A&M University (22) Texas A&M University System (28) Blinn College (7) University of Dallas Texas Christian University

SCOTLAND University of St Andrews CANADA University of Waterloo

University of Houston (7) University of St. Thomas (3) Rice University (2) Houston Baptist University Lone Star College San Jacinto College (2)

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diligence & distinction The St. Thomas Class of 2018 was awarded $13.5 million in merit-based scholarships to colleges and universities from across the United States while leaving a lasting legacy of academic acclaim.

The prestigious recognition includes …

Henry Michael Adair

Case Western Reserve University - University Scholarship Optimist Foundation Scholarship University of Pittsburgh Chancellor’s Nominee Scholarship University of Tulsa Vision Scholarship University of Tulsa Honors Program Scholarship University of Tulsa Dean’s Scholarship

Nicholas John Adu-Gyamfi

Andrew James Alvarez

Tomas Agustin Amelio

Garrett Reed Archer

Matthew Jonathan Bagale

Baylor Founder’s Gold Scholarship St. Lawrence University Grant Award Trinity College Grant Award

Maxwell Elias Banes

University of Houston Football Scholarship

Michael Alan Banks

Baylor Academic Scholarship Texas A&M University at College Station Regent’s Scholarship Texas Tech Academic Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship University of St. Thomas Basilian Distinguished Scholar Scholarship

Jason Alexander Barroso

Louisiana State University Transformation Merit Nonresident Scholarship

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Louisiana State University Tigers Scholarship Loyola University New Orleans Loyola Scholarship Loyola University New Orleans Loyola Grant St. Edward’s University President’s Merit Award Scholarship St. Edward’s University St. Edward’s Grant St. Edward’s University Texas Grant

Patrick Avery Bartlett

Bard College Bard Scholarship The College of Wooster Dean’s Scholarship The College of Wooster Wooster Grant Award Lawrence University Light! More Light! Scholarship Lawrence University Lawrentian Award Lawrence University Grant Award Oberlin College & Conservatory Oberlin College Grant Award Oberlin College & Conservatory John F. Oberlin Scholarship Oberlin College & Conservatory Oberlin Raise Me Scholarship

Travis Edward Bartniski

Norwich University Dean’s Scholarship Norwich University Maroon & Gold Grant Norwich University Take the Lead Scholarship Norwich University Future Leader Camp Award Norwich University Grant

Henry James Bonifacio Batt

Baylor University Academic Scholarship University of Dallas Dean’s Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Nathaniel Pierce Belcher

Arizona State University President Scholarship Franklin University Switzerland Merit Award Scholarship

Jordan Thomas Bishop

University of Texas at Arlington Presidential Scholar Scholarship

Brooks Connor Brickley

Baylor University Academic Scholarship Louisiana State University Transformation Merit Nonresident Award Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship University of Mississippi Excellence NonResident Scholarship University of Oklahoma Honor Award

Cadesman Clark Brickley

Abilene Christian University Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence Scholarship Houston Baptist University Grant I Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Nicolas Michael Brito

University of Texas at Austin Texas Exes Houston Chapter Scholarship

Jack Frederick Brogan

Beth Carew Memorial Scholarship The College of Wooster College Scholar Merit Award Scholarship Denison University Alumni Award Merit Scholarship Denison University Denison Grant Scholarship Duquesne University Academic Scholarship EWISP Scholarship University of Dayton Trustees’ Merit Scholarship University of Dayton Leadership in Service Scholarship University of Dayton Commitment to Catholic Education Award University of Dayton Forever Flyer Grant

Kristopher Joseph Brolan

Nicholas Madden Burns

Juan Miguel Castillo

Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship Harvard University Harvard Faculty Scholarship

Jared Michael Cebrun

University of Houston Scholarship University of North Texas Excellence Scholarship

Mikkel Daniel Chaisson

Peter Mark Chauvel

Connor James Chunn

Louisiana State University Tiger Excellence Nonresident Award Scholarship Louisiana State University Tiger Nation Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Charles Cole Colley

Houston Baptist University Legacy Scholarship St. Edward’s University Dean’s Achievement Scholarship St. Edward’s University Hilltopper Blue Award Scholarship University of Texas at Arlington Maverick Academic Scholarship

Michael Craig Colucci

Southern Methodist University Provost Scholarship Trinity University Trustee’s Scholarship University of Colorado Boulder Chancellor’s Achievement Scholarship

Christopher Michael Corrigan

Evan Nathaniel Cox

Baylor University Gold Academic Scholarship St. Edward’s University President’s Merit Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

John William Dagley

Kenneth Dang

Baylor University President’s Gold Scholarship Texas A&M at College Station President’s Endowed Scholarship Texas A&M at College Station National Merit Award Trinity University Murchison Scholarship

Parker Harrison Davis

Sebastian Antonio Estremadoyro

Justin Michael Estuart

Baylor University Founder’s Gold Baylor Scholarship Houston Baptist University Presidential Academic Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Cooper Thomas Gottschalk

Saint Joseph’s University - University Scholarship

John Michael Green

John Thomas Evans

Philip Drake Everist

Pepperdine University George Pepperdine Achievement Scholarship

Joshua Dionisio Falcone

Texas A&M University College Board Recognition Award Scholarship

Tristan Parker Fauntleroy

George Kenneth Fisher

Landrus Lorenzo Flanagan

Clark Joseph Flowers

Gabriel Luis Fonseca

Noah Glenn Fontenot

Louisiana State University Tiger Excellence Nonresident Award Scholarship Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Andrew Michael Ford

Alexander Kenneth Frank

Houston Baptist University Grant I Scholarship

Rodrigo Alberto Gallardo

Daniel Thomas Garcia

Rian Michael Garcia

Diego Enrique Garcia

University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Michael Jerome Garza

Houston Baptist University Grant I Scholarship University of Incarnate Word Undergrad Academic Scholarship University of Incarnate Word Catholic High School Scholarship

St. Edward’s University Hilltopper Welcome Award Joshua Philip Gensheimer St. Edward’s University President’s Excellence Scholarship Scholarship

University of Houston Academic Excellence Brad Eric Delia Scholarship

Aaron Jesper Delia University of Texas at Dallas Academic Excellence Scholarship Distinction Level

John Robert Dolan

Samuel Calvin Donoho

Iowa State University Award for Competitive Excellence Level 1 Scholarship Iowa State University NonResident Initiative to Commend Excellence Scholarship University of Texas at Arlington Presidential Scholar Scholarship

Derek Gerardo Dumas

University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship University of Oklahoma Honor Award

Colorado School of Mines President’s Scholarship Missouri University of Science and Technology Excellence Scholarship Missouri University of Science and Technology University Scholarship Texas A&M University National Merit Scholarship East Bernard American Legion Post #226 Scholarship Southern Methodist University Presidential Scholarship United States Navy ISR ROTC

Barrett Lee Gregory

John Paul Gregory

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

John Paul Griffin

Marcus Anthony Gutierrez

Tomas Javier Gyarfas

University of Houston Merit Scholarship

Zachary Steven Hablinski

University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship University of Oklahoma Honor Award Scholarship

Matthew Dominic Hamilton

Zachary William Hamm

University of Missouri Mark Twain NR Scholarship University of Missouri Residential Experience Award

Joshua Christensen Hanks

Jackson Kerr Hanna

University of Houston Academic Scholarship University of Texas at San Antonio Academic Scholarship

Payton Matthew Harris

Houston Baptist University Legacy Scholarship St. Mary’s University Santa Maria Scholarship

Joseph Willoughby Hassell

Tulsa University Royal Blue Scholarship

Samuel Timothy Hebert

Matthew Alan Hensch

Andrew John Hernandez

Andrew Trinidad Herrera

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Andreas Konstantinos Giannitsopoulos

Michael Irvin Hessel

Beckett Collier Gonzales

Faraon Diego Gonzales

John Joaquin Heymach

Baylor University Dean’s Gold Scholarship

Louisiana State University Transformation Merit Nonresident Award Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Southern Methodist University Distinguished Scholar Scholarship Regis University Honors Scholarship Regis University Regis Achievement Award St. Mary’s College of California Benildus Scholarship Warren Wilson College Dean’s Scholarship Warren Wilson College Honors Scholarship

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 17

Ethan P. Hoasjoe

Louisiana State University Academic Scholars Nonresident Award Scholarship Louisiana State University President’s Student Program Scholarship Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship

Brennan Riess Hoffman

Houston Baptist University Merit Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

John Cameron Horner

Phi Beta Kappa Scholarship

Sebastian Housh

William Carter Irwin

Samuel Sergei Jaben

Berry College Academic Scholarship The College of Wooster Dean’s Scholarship Wittenberg University Alumni Recognition Award Wittenberg University Scholar Award Scholarship

David Raymond Jackson

LeTourneau University Award LeTourneau University Trustee’s Scholarship University of Texas at Arlington Maverick Academic Scholarship

Patrick Andrew Jakab

Max Christopher Johnson

Austin College Academic Honors Scholarship Austin College Grant Scholarship St. Edward’s University President’s Merit Scholarship

Dylan Toloudis Johnston

Mario Joseph Arroyo Juguilon, Jr.

Knights of Columbus Council 8960 Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Andreas Sergio Kapetanakis

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

David Champion Kegg

Texas Tech University Summer Program Scholarship

Reilly Thomas Kerfers

Carleton University Ottawa Entrance Scholarship Concordia College Moorehead International Student Award Scholarship University of Ottawa Admission Scholarship University of St. Thomas Minnesota Scholarship University of Waterloo Admission Grant

Jonathan Eckart Kerr

University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship University of Texas at San Antonio Distinguished Presidential Scholarship

William Lawrence King

University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Creigh Patrick Klenke

Holy Cross College President’s Scholarship

Soren Culver Knudsen

Arizona State University Dean’s Award

18 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Arizona State University Living and Learning Award Arizona State University New American University Scholar Arizona State University Sun Devil State Award Miami University RedHawk Excellence Scholarship

Noah Joseph Kotlarek

DAR Scholarship Fordham Loyola Scholarship Fordham Tuition Award Loyola Marymount University Achievement Award Marquette University Pere Marquette Scholarship Santa Clara University Incentive Grant Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship Trinity University Trustee’s Scholarship

Melvin Ray Larkins III

University of Tulsa Force For Good Award Scholarship

Alexander Christin Lee

Southwestern University Mood Scholar Award Scholarship Trinity University Scholarship

Andrew Kevin Leyendecker

Louisiana State University Academic Scholars Nonresident Award Scholarship Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Louisiana State University President’s Student Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Joseph William Little

Robert Louis Lock

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Ryan Charles Lokker

Joshua Matias Longoria

Arizona State University New American Scholarship St. Edward’s University President’s Merit Scholarship

Richard Andrew Lopez

Grant Christopher Lurix

Arizona State University Living and Learning Award Arizona State University New American University Scholar Provost’s Award Scholarship Arizona State University Sun Devil State Award Baylor University Dean’s Gold Scholarship St. Edward’s President’s Excellence Scholarship

Marshall William Madden

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Myron Angelo Mamaradlo

Jacob Michael Manley

St. Edward’s University President’s Merit Scholarship

Shawn Elliott Martinez

Philip Edward Matulia

Louisiana Tech University Bulldog Scholarship Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship

Andrew Brian McCann

Blaine Thomas McDaniel

Colorado Mesa University Football Scholarship Iowa State University Football Scholarship Mississippi College Football Scholarship Northwestern Oklahoma State University Football Scholarship

Southeastern Louisiana University Football Scholarship Southern Nazarene University Football Scholarship University of Arkansas-Monticello Football Scholarship University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Football Scholarship University of Mount Union Football Scholarship University of Northern Colorado Football Scholarship

Nicholas Gary McDonald

Liam Conry McMahon

Owen Andrew Meaney

Jose Jesus Mendez

Gabriel Vincent Meriano

Christopher Allen Miller

Jacob Paul Moreau

University of Dallas Founder’s Scholarship

Daniel Moreno

Salvatore John Mormino

Spencer Patrick Mullen

Parker JaLeal Nelms

Christian Jean-Paul Noyola

Ryan Patrick O’Reilley

Roberto Guillermo Pabst

The Catholic University of America Parish Scholarship The Catholic University of America Scholarship The Catholic University of America Grant Marymount University Grant Marymount University HS Scholarship Marymount University Out of State Resident Grant Marymount University Dean Scholarship St. Edward’s University Dean’s Achievement Scholarship St. Edward’s University Grant St. John’s University St. Vincent De Paul Scholarship St. John’s University Catholic Student Scholarship St. John’s University HS Scholarship St. John’s University Grant University of Incarnate Word Academic Scholarship University of Incarnate Word Catholic HS Scholarship University of St. Thomas Celt Award University of St. Thomas New Student University Grant

Nathan Christopher Padilla

Kyle Henry Paige

Nicholas Colton Pane

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Alexei Ashby Passmore

Michael Thomas Patton

Nolan Glen Pfeil

Alexander James Pollock

Texas Tech University Top 25 Presidential Scholarship

Nicolas Gerald Proano

Joshua Steven Prusak

University of Arkansas New Arkansan Nonresident Tuition Scholarship

Jose Luis Quintanilla

Houston Baptist University Academic Scholarship St. Edward’s University Academic Scholarship

Jackson Christopher Reece

Houston Dow Institute Scholarship Lamar University Kip Glasscock Scholarship Lamar University Living Learning Community Scholarship Southwestern University - University Merit Award University of Incarnate Word Achievement Award University of Incarnate Word Archbishop Gomez Catholic High School Scholarship

Christopher Devaugn Rhodes

Adam Nasser Rinaldi

The Catholic University of America Catholic University Scholarship The Catholic University of America Parish Scholarship Loyola University New Orleans Dean’s Scholarship Loyola University New Orleans Loyola Grant St. Edward’s University President’s Excellence Scholarship St. Edward’s University Grant Scholarship St. Mary’s University Trustee Scholarship Trinity University Trustee’s Scholarship Trinity University Trinity Grant University of San Diego Grant University of St. Thomas Basilian Distinguished Scholarship University of St. Thomas New Student University Grant Scholarship

Gabriel Adrian Rios

Southern Methodist University Academic Scholarship University of Pittsburgh Academic Scholarship University of Tulsa Academic Scholarship

Haden Matthew Ritchie

Thomas Andrew Roberts

Parker Lee Robertson

Dean College Academic Scholarship DePaul University Academic Scholarship Pace University Academic Scholarship Rider University Academic Scholarship Texas Lutheran University Academic Scholarship University of Arts Academic Scholarship University of Hartford Academic Scholarship Webster University Academic Scholarship

Matthew Edward Rodriguez

Christopher Rayne Rose

Travis Lane Rosenblad

Auburn University Academic Presidential Scholarship Oklahoma State University Out-of-State Achievement Scholarship University of Texas at Arlington Maverick Academic Scholarship

Cole Edward Ross

Louisiana State University Academic Scholars Nonresident Award Scholarship Louisiana State University President’s Student Program Scholarship

Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Louisiana State University Tiger Alumni Legacy Scholarship

Mason Alexander Ruch

Parker James Rzasnicki

Juan Jose Matthew Sanchez

Rene Ediel Sanchez

Xavier Antonio Sauceda

Leopoldo Sayavedra III

Christopher Tomas Schlak

Andrew Walter Schlosser

Baylor University Academic Scholarship Catholic Daughters of America Christ the King Court #1750 Scholarship Louisiana State University Transformation Merit Nonresident Award Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Louisiana State University Tiger Alumni Legacy Scholarship University of Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship

Niccolas Allan Schroeder

Chase Robert Shanley

Army ROTC Advance Designee Scholarship

John Robert Shofner

Trevor Thomas Sides

University of Texas at San Antonio Distinguished Scholar Scholarship University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley Housing Scholarship University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley Distinguished Scholar Scholarship

Cameron James Thomas

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Ryan Nasser Tihami

Andrew Duy Tran

Cesar Trevino

Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Daniel Lynn Vannoy

Texas A&M University at College Station Corps 21 Scholarship Texas A&M University at College Station Opportunity Award Scholarship

Everett Wilson Vaughn

Texas A&M University at College Station Athletic Scholarship

Michael James Vogelsang

Louisiana State University Texas Tigers Scholarship Louisiana State University Transformation Merit Nonresident Award Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Alabama Capstone Scholar Scholarship University of Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship University of Mississippi Academic Excellence Nonresident Scholarship

Colorado School of Mines President’s Scholarship Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rensselaer Medalist Scholarship Southern Methodist University Discovery Scholarship Hans Houston Dutch von Meier Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship

Sean Michael Sisolak

Baylor University Baylor Scholarship Baylor University Founder’s Gold Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Mathew Alexander Soto

Jacob Armin Stevens

Liam Patrick Sullivan

Carroll College All Saints Scholarship Chaminade University of Honolulu Leadership Scholarship

William Rud Swan

Maurice DeShawn Taylor

Christopher Moyalan Thomas

Baylor University Provost Gold Scholarship Texas A&M University at College Station College of Engineering Undergraduate Differential Scholarship Texas Tech University ECE Desig ENGR Scholarship Texas Tech University Top 25 Presidential Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship University of North Texas Excellence Scholar Scholarship University of Texas at Arlington Presidential Scholarship University of Texas at Dallas Achievement Scholarship

Max Christopher Vosloh

Ryan Joseph Wagner

Simon Jamail Waldrop

David Joseph Weber

Alexander Nunez Whiteley

Fordham University Fordham Jogues Scholarship Fordham University Fordham Tuition Award Scholarship

Wayne Gilbert Wickman, III

Wallace David Woodlief

Baylor University Academic Scholarship Baylor University Provost’s Gold Scholarship Rochester Institute of Technology RIT Presidential Scholarship Texas Tech University Presidential Scholarship University of Mary Hardin-Baylor President’s Scholarship

Dominic Philip Ybarra

Texas A&M University Galveston First Scholars Program Scholarship University of Houston Academic Excellence Scholarship

Julien Vittorino

Joseph Zanovello

Travis John Zetka

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 19

PROUDLY SALUTING OUR LEGACY GRADUATES

ADAIR - Henry ’18 and grandfather Chuck Dunkin ’60

BARROSO - father Chris ’77, Jason ’18 and Chris ’96

BROLAN - father James ’97, Kris ’18 and mother Jennifer (St. Agnes Academy ’98)

BURNS - brother Davis ’17, father TJ Burns ’79 and Nicholas ’18

HABLINSKI - father Craig ’81 and Zach ’18

MADDEN - father Willie ’82 and Marshall ’18

18 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 20

FROM THE CLASS OF 2018

gT bratin radition e l : Ce H O N O R I N G OUR L EGACY FA M I LI E S

BARTNISKI - great uncle Mike ’67, father Mark ’83, Travis ’18, great uncle Fr. Bill Paradowski ’59 and cousin James ’71 (pictured, grandfather Ed ’57)

BROGAN - father Patrick ’87 and Jack ’18

FAUNTLEROY - grandfather John ’53, Tristan ’18 and uncle Brandon Tristan ’89

GREGORY - brother Jeremy ’15, father Doug ’87, Barrett ’18, uncle Billy ’85 and uncle Martin Hajovsky ’83 (not pictured, brother Griffin ’21)

PABST - Roberto ’18 and father Robert ’88

ROBERTSON - Parker ’18 and grandfather Anthony ’48

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 21 19

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2018

VAUGHN - brother Jay ’15, Everett ’18 and father Tom (pictured, grandfather Joe ’62)

gT bratin radition e l : Ce H O N O R I N G OUR L EGACY FA M I LI E S

WICKMAN - grandfather Richard Coselli ’50, Wayne ’18 and father Wayne ’81

VOGELSANG - cousin Murphy ’24, uncle Phillip ’88, grandfather Wayne ’63, father Tom ’86, brother Matthew ’14 and Michael ’18

YBARRA - Nicholas ’16, Johnny Storenski ’57 and Dominic ’18

22 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

ZETKA - Travis ’18, father Ken ’83 and grandfather Norman ’52 (not pictured, brothers Nick ’16 and James ’16)

Eagle

FLIGHT Senior Stories.................................................... p24 Distinctive Identity Basilian Fathers Academic Awards................ p27 Chase Shanley ’18 - Call For Duty.................. p28 Andreas Kapetanakis ’18 Big Breakthrough............................................. p30

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 23 17

Eagles’ Nest

FLIGHT

VALEDICTORIAN

JUAN CASTILLO ’18 Steadfast Determination to Harvard

W

SENIOR STORIES

hen Valedictorian Juan Castillo ’18 Castillo often displayed a never-be-denied wasn’t sifting through significant merit“determination” that supported his full-frontal based academic awards to attend focus in fortifying the exemplary academic profile Harvard University or the Massachusetts to move his academic career forward to the oldest Institute of Technology (MIT) or the California higher education institution in the country.

Polytechnic State University ... when he wasn’t And through his St. Thomas experience, Castillo earning Semifinalist distinction in the National gained an acute understanding of the divergent Merit Scholarship Program’s 63rd competition value of education. College is not simply ... when he wasn’t augmenting his deep and acquiring practical skills but seizing a temporary exemplary AP pedigree with course work at the destination to discover University of Houston ... he could routinely be found “Attending Harvard is a possibilities. College is not where students clamor to climb in the St. Thomas Learning childhood dream come true. into a career box but to extend Commons, not necessarily Academics were my driving outside all the individual boxes to further push his own force at St. Thomas, always students occupy. The most academic pursuits but lead and serve in tutorial sessions striving for the best results, important marketplace skill is creativity, and creativity for his fellow Eagles scholars. but primarily to put that requires curiosity, questioning “I wasn’t learning at St. knowledge in play for a assumptions, resisting Thomas just for myself, but conventional thinking, and greater good.” also to help others, an extenan ego with the courage to be sion of what I hope to be– Juan Castillo ’18 wrong. Often. come, studying medicine and becoming a neurologist,” Castillo said. “Attending “If the grade was a 98, I wanted a 100,” Castillo Harvard is a childhood dream come true. Academsaid. “When I needed to satisfy questions ics were my driving force at St. Thomas, always unrelated to the actual grades, I would quiz my striving for the best results, but primarily to put that teachers, never allowed anything to hold me back. knowledge in play for a greater good.”

Even if my instructors thought my standard was enough, I wanted to go beyond. And now Harvard Harvard has carried the gold-standard tradition is the payoff.” of quality academics and prestige in the United States for nearly four centuries. For Castillo, In his four years at St. Thomas, Juan Castillo embracing his richly deserved opportunity means transformed his thinking, then his expectations bringing a fresh mind “to the most challenging and now with firm belief, his life, hungry and curriculum. I plan to travel abroad to study equipped to craft solutions from beyond the and expand my world. I love languages and narrow confines of a discipline that may have discovering the unknown.” originally posed the problem.

24 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

DANIEL GARCIA ’18 Leadership and Inspiration

D

aniel Garcia ’18 is a success story powered by a determination regardless of desire or destiny, a positive attitude entwined with a relentless ethic rooted in a foundation on values, caring for others, inspiring all to be their best.

When presented with the 2018 Principal’s Service and Leadership Award, the honor reflected Garcia’s significant academic resume, his deeply influential role as Student Council president and his valued participation within Eagle Athletics - the quintessential model among the St. Thomas student community as an apostle of the Basilian credo Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge.

In the fall Garcia joins another large St. Thomas contingent attending Texas A&M University. He was recognized in equal measure for his scholarly achievement, exceptional contributions to the student community and noteworthy leadership demonstrated in one or more activities.

the expectations and is capable of meeting the challenge, the objectives never compromised.”

Garcia maintained an A average throughout his St. Thomas academic career. But he gained clarity after his freshman year that his rigorous curriculum was not sufficient if he was to reach his full potential.

“I wasn’t as involved as I needed to be,” Garcia said. “I made a conscious effort to take greater advantage of opportunities, push beyond my comfort zone, seek out electives and participate in clubs. My speech courses were a difference“In terms of leadership, I maker is terms of developing confidence. I to know more people and discover always wanted to put myself wanted my talents. And that’s when I recognized the out there, to learn and grow strength of the bond that unites all of us here into what it means to be a at St. Thomas.”

leader. I wasn’t convinced I had reached that level but this award confirms that I’m moving forward to where I hope to be.”

Garcia’s senior year included an unexpected dose of adversity. He was named one of four captains and projected to play a meaningful role in the resurgence of Eagle Football as a starter in the defensive secondary.

Assistant Principal Mary Criaco described Garcia as “a hard-working and well organized young man who brought creative and strategic But the 10-game regular season was first ideas when presenting student issues to the – Daniel Garcia ’18 truncated due to the aftermath of Hurricane Dean’s office. He also took the responsibility Harvey, and Garcia then saw his measurable for implementing his ideas rather than simply relying on others. impact reduced dramatically because of injury. But he He is a joyful young man who is always seen with a smile and maintained the proper focus to motivate from the sideline and great outlook about his school and his life.” brought valuable experience and an infectious energy to his team.

Garcia takes particular pride in developing then harnessing a “I believe you always prioritize the group regardless of how strict internal definition of leadership ... influencing others to frustrated or disappointed you might be with your own accomplish the goal ... understanding the difference between circumstances,” Garcia said. “That encouragement makes a directed duties and implied ... putting the needs and goals of the difference in individuals and helps create a culture for winning. group ahead of personal interest and acclaim.

My teammates were my brothers, close on and off the field.

“To me, a leader is selfless,” Garcia said. “It’s all about You could see by how unselfish we played that we loved each efficiency and not show. I believe in allowing another man to other. I just tried to make the team feel whole.” step up and take charge if he chooses but only after he knows

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 25

Eagles’ Nest

FLIGHT

CONTINUED

JACK GREEN ’18 Exclusive Scholarship to Wharton School

J

ack Green ‘18 is driven to fulfill a life of impact.

He enters the famed Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania at a time when it is rated as the best business school in the United States for the first time by Forbes in its 10th biennial rankings in part to the highest salaries for alumni five years after leaving school.

And before arriving on campus Green has already carved a notable distinction among that incoming freshman class. He is one of only 125 graduating high school seniors from across the United States who qualified for the exclusive four-year Immediate Scholarship Reservation (ISR) as part of the Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program.

Green parlayed his stellar academic credentials and profile with the ROTC commitment into full tuition and additional financial benefits up to $180,000. Last fall his strongly competitive ACT score, coupled with his St. Thomas GPA and extensive extracurriculars, immediately accelerated his ROTC application. During the interview process, he emphatically conveyed the persistence, perseverance, compassion and character qualities the Navy seeks to separate from the pack of applicants.

“This is all about leadership,” Green said. “To me, that’s what the military embodies more than anything else.

That was the thrust in all my essays and one-on-one encounters with interviewers.

There’s no question that the combination of Wharton and the Navy will give me the means to grow as the leader I strive to be in any role I find myself professionally and personally.”

The Navy ROTC program requires students to gain college admittance on their own merits then seek to apply the scholarship to five select university destinations in order of preference.

Green originally positioned Harvard University as his preferred choice with UPenn number two. But just prior to the admissions deadlines in the spring he received a call from a university representative gauging his immediate Ivy League interest.

26 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

“I told him I would absolutely commit if offered the opportunity,” Green said. “Within a week I was notified I had received the recommendation and I was in Wharton.”

There is no service obligation incurred for the first year of Navy-sponsored college tuition.

– Jack Green ’18

Once his degree requirements at Wharton are complete, Green will be commissioned as a Naval officer and serve a minimum five-year active duty obligation. He’ll expand his rigorous Wharton curriculum with ROTC electives, including Naval Sciences, Calculus, Physics and courses relating to national security policy and military history/affairs while also participating in ROTC training on campus and in special programs and camps throughout the calendar year.

Green (who also received a Presidential Scholarship to Southern Methodist University) credits a collaborative effort from staff members in the St. Thomas Learning and Enrichment Center (LEC) along with faculty for establishing an “attack plan” that proved to be an invaluable catalyst fueling his academic success.

Directly after arriving as a freshman from St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School, Green embraced a streamlined approach for organizing and prioritizing his daily routine, from note-taking to exam preparation to teacher consultation, all forging a highly disciplined and overarching strategy that eventually provided the path to Penn. “(The LEC) really got me into shape that first year and that made a huge difference,” Green said. “The emphasis was to keep the structure simple. Improve the focus. Trust the study

distinctive

identity

H

istorically the St. Thomas academic community salutes those students who achieve in a rigorous college preparatory environment and separate through a civic identity beyond campus.

skills. My teachers were a direct extension. I came to class every day knowing the demands, the deadlines, no excuses.

I had to be on the mark every day and that environment really helped me develop the necessary foundation.

“And I can’t describe the extra support I received from the Dean of Students office during the ROTC process. Whatever I needed, whenever I needed was always there.”

Moving forward Green is expected to embody the Navy culture of integrity, accountability, initiative and toughness.

His leadership is already influencing his younger brother Wyatt ’22 who was on the St. Thomas campus in June and July taking courses for credit well ahead of the fall semester to strike his freshman year with measurable momentum.

Learning from the example. A life of impact.

The annual Academic Awards Assembly is a stirring tribute to not only strong intellect and scholarly achievement but also an emphatic capacity for compassion.

Juan Castillo ’18 and Kenneth Dang ’18 were named valedictorian and salutatorian of their class, the highest ranking seniors based on the calculation of their fouryear grade point averages. The two also earned Semifinalist distinction in the National Merit Scholarship Program’s 63rd competition along with Cooper Gottschalk ’18 and Michael Patton ’18.

The National Merit Program awarded Letters of Commendation recognizing exceptional academic promise to seniors Henry Adair, Nathaniel Belcher, Nicolas Brito, George Fisher, John Horner, Mario Juguilon, Gabriel Meriano, Christopher Miller, Travis Rosenblad, Parker Rzasnicki and Mathew Soto while Josh Falcone, Josh Gensheimer and Alex Whiteley were named National Merit Hispanic Scholars.

The elite group of National Merit recipients were among 44 senior members in the National Honor Society.

Noah Kotlarek ’18 was recognized with the Albert R. Gaelens Award, given to the senior student who best embodies the school motto of Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge.

The GD&K Award is named in honor of Fr. Gaelens, CSB, the 21st principal of St. Thomas who served the school for a quarter century before retiring in 2007.

Seniors are nominated by their peers, and the faculty then votes on those receiving the most nominations.

Rzasnicki (pictured) was honored with the Carl Mitchell Allnoch Athletic Memorial Trophy for Excellence in Academics, in honor of Fr. Allnoch, CSB, the 16th principal of St. Thomas. He followed 2016 TAPPS Male Athlete of the Year David Jones ’16, Campbell Clarkson ’15 and Joseph Lowry ’14 as the most recent Allnoch Trophy recipients.

Daniel Garcia ’18 was presented with the Principal’s Service and Leadership Award, valued as “an upstanding gentleman, scholar and athlete”, described by his counselor “as the quintessential model among the St. Thomas community as a leader, team player and apostle of the St. Thomas motto Teach me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge.”

This inaugural year of the Father Ronald Schwenzer Campus Ministry Award saluted two seniors who most exemplified the St. Thomas Campus Ministry/Men of St. Thomas motto of Faith, Service, and Leadership.

Travis Bartniski ’18 (pictured) and Diego Garcia ’18 proved to be faithful to the Church, to their school, to their athletic teams and to Campus Ministry throughout their Eagle careers.

Both served above and beyond the minimum service requirements with Garcia serving four consecutive Spring Break mission trips and was a co-founder with his brother Daniel ’16, the Math Aces tutorial program at St. Theresa’s Catholic School.

Garcia and Bartniski were leaders within Columbian Squires, members of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and consistently served during summer and weekend projects at Magnificat Houses, the St. Thomas apostolate to Houston’s homeless and poor.

The St. Thomas Alumni Board grants three tuition assistance scholarships fueled through fundraising and membership dues. The 2018 awards were presented to Rorie Barroso ’19, Jean-Paul Nguyen ’20 and Vincent Ori ’21.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 27

Eagle

FLIGHT

“At times it was a grind but my faith in God kept me driving through the journey.

I knew He had a plan for me and I just

CALL

had to push through it. (Campus Ministry Director) Marty Matulia and (Assistant Dean of Students) Father (James) Murphy really helped me stay close to my faith. I

H H H for

was confident if I just continued to put in

DUTY

the tunnel, never lost belief, it all would

the work, looked for the light at the end of work out well. It’s an amazing feeling to know what lies in front of me.”

– Chase Shanley ’18

T

he ultimate test of any academic institution is the quality and character of its graduates.

Honors student Chase Shanley ’18 proved exemplary in leadership excellence and academic distinction throughout his St. Thomas career, and now aims to apply his skills and direct his desires to duty, honor and country at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina.

Shanley graciously accepted a four-year academic award worth nearly $170,000 to attend The Military College of South Carolina through the Army’s Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship program.

“The Army brotherhood is a chance to prove my strengths as a leader and serve the United States,” Shanley says. “This is the greatest country in the world.

We are all so privileged to live here. And for me, there’s such a sense of pride every time I see the flag, what that represents and what I hope to protect.”

28 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Shawn Walker with Christopher ’17

The Citadel was founded in 1842, and through three different centuries graduates have answered the call to serve.

Shanley fully expects to be among the approximately 30 percent of each class which historically earns commissions to become military officers upon graduation.

Shanley is entering The Citadel in the midst of unprecedented growth and acclaim, including the 2007 MacArthur Award as the best large college ROTC program in the East.

For seven consecutive years, The Citadel has earned the title of no. 1 Public College in the South offering up to a master’s degree from U.S. News & World Report.

In lockstep with a growing focus on global learning and diverse study abroad programs was the college’s most ambitious fundraising effort completed to celebrate its 175-year anniversary - a record-breaking total of more than $250 million to enhance the cadet experience, intellectual excellence, athletics, facilities and strategic growth, including nearly $20 million into academic endowment.

Shanley is particularly intrigued by the recent launch of the Swain Department of Nursing and the opportunity to train as an undergraduate at a wide variety of Army hospitals through the United States or Germany.

First Shanley readies for the trials immediately on his horizon - the drills, the physical demands, the mental exhaustion.

And what could be best described as the esprit de corps that those who enter The Citadel have come to expect for generations.

“The camaraderie among the cadets is very similar to what we experienced at St. Thomas,” Shanley says. “We challenged each other ... hyped each other ... and when it was time we had each other’s backs to get through tough times.”

All branches of the United States military are represented on The Citadel campus in ROTC detachments. Personnel are an active part of the experience.

Shanley believes he is properly prepared given his St. Thomas commitment as a commuter student from Magnolia.

“I would wake up around 5:00 a.m. ...

45 miles to campus ... arrive by 6:30 a.m. for breakfast and tutorial ... a full day of coursework ... straight to the gym for workouts and practices until late afternoon ... then 45 minutes home ... countless nights until 2:00 a.m. studying and preparing.”

academic year, CPT Ricardo Bolanos was immediately “struck by (Chase’s) staunch due diligence to his daily routine and the sacrifices required to attend and achieve at St. Thomas, as well as his Eagle Scout experience. Chase had a master plan and would not be denied.

His proven leadership and his confidence really separated him from the pack.”

Once Shanley was accepted into the ROTC scholarship program he more than met The Citadel’s minimum requirements for prospective students - 1200 SAT (or 27 ACT) and a high school GPA of 3.2.

Bob Shanley has seen his son “driven to succeed from a very early age, especially Rinse. Repeat. For four years. with scouting. The military focus started in junior high school. And he’s never “At times it was a grind but my faith in God kept me driving through the journey,” wavered, always stayed focused. I understand the attraction to The Citadel.

Shanley says. “I knew He had a plan The brotherhood. The heritage. We’ve for me and I just had to push through already benefited from a great network of it. (Campus Ministry Director) Marty families who have made us feel welcome.”

Matulia and (Assistant Dean of Students) Father (James) Murphy really helped me Chase’s mother Tabitha takes particular stay close to my faith. I was confident if pride “knowing that (Chase) set his goals I just continued to put in the work, looked coming to St. Thomas as a freshman and for the light at the end of the tunnel, never accomplished all that he set out to do.” lost belief, it all would work out well. It’s And that along with deep determination to succeed is a “compassionate and an amazing feeling to know what lies in servant’s heart.” front of me.”

During the ROTC interview process which began early in the 2017-18

For three summers Shanley volunteered at Camp Blessing in Brenham, working with special needs individuals seven-years and older with a primary diagnosis of physical, developmental or intellectual disability.

“Chase cares deeply about giving back and being a responsible citizen,” Tabitha says.

“It was his choice to attend St. Thomas.

He recognized even as a freshman what the experience might present him if he provided his best efforts. He wanted this even knowing the demands would be considerable. And now look at the rewards.”

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 29

Eagle

FLIGHT

BIG P

reviously during the decade, Fine Arts Dean Mike Nebel has provided the paradigm of the private school program where consistent regional and national acclaim is but a byproduct of scholar-artists discovering their voice in experimentation and exploration.

In the latest distinction extending the already firmly established St. Thomas identity and reputation within Ceramic Arts, Andreas Kapetanakis ’18 is the first-ever Eagle to earn National Silver Medalist at the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious recognition program for creative talents in grades 7-12, and the largest source of exhibition, publication and scholarships for young artists and writers.

Kapetanakis’ contemporary Walking Tubular Teapot emerged from the juried competition with a prized position in the annual showcase.

“This program is filled with significant pride and accomplishment and perhaps I’ve started a new path for others to follow,” Kapetanakis said.

“I was not expecting this status but I was definitely proud of the finished product. The process literally starts with blank paper and your imagination begins to run ... 75% is the design ... then attention and refinement from start to finish ... glazing is crucial ... many extra hours spent after school, in study halls and during weekends. There was an emotional attachment to the piece given the investment before the judging and eventually, it was recognized.”

30 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

BREAKTHROUGH Kapetanakis impressed with a modern interpretation within the conventional framework of a teapot. His vessel was selected over hundreds of other utilitarian and sculptural presentations.

“The judge is well renown ... a professor of ceramics at the University of Nebraska with thirty-plus years of experience and largely a traditionalist,” Nebel said. “This is a beautiful piece but not traditional ... intense detail ... exceptional craftsmanship. Very clever in how the legs are integrated into the body, handle and spout. It grabs the viewers’ attention, draws them in and compels them to handle the object.

Everything just worked.”

Nebel consistently challenges his seniors to experiment with a full array of construction and glazing techniques, ceramic materials and firing methods, featuring both historical and contemporary styles. He encourages students to explore how objects communicate, visually and tactilely, and to realize their personal potential and unearth the possibilities of artistic expression.

“The program climbs and that doesn’t happen without our students embracing the opportunity, applying their talents and refusing to accept what’s already been done before,” Nebel said. “What I always appreciate is that these are not ceramic majors crafting to join elite university programs. But they respect the St. Thomas standard that we’ve set and they’re determined to make a statement for themselves.”

Nebel’s leadership has created an environment where thinking three-dimensionally is an essential and empowering tool. He has proven adept at igniting the group’s collective competitive nature which routinely produces award-winning results even though he readily admits that “we are not engineering entries with the intent to impress judges or give them what they hope to see. Our goal is creativity, individuals seizing ownership for a piece that is uniquely theirs.”

Previously in the academic year, Kapetanakis was part of the Gold Key rush that pushed the program to unprecedented heights at the 2018 National Scholastic Regional Art Competition. He and Nolan Pfeil ’18 each claimed two such distinctions in a collaborative St. Thomas effort that claimed nine of the 12 Gold Keys advancing from the region to the national level.

In all a staggering 27 Eagles captured esteemed recognition from 29 entries judged at the competition, including 11 Silver Keys recipients.

“You see the commitment of others in the lab and that motivates you to match or exceed the efforts of others,” Kapetanakis said. “We really drive each other to bring out the best in everyone.”

Kapetanakis’ best was honored at Carnegie Hall in New York City along with other national Silver Medal, Gold Portfolio and Gold Medal selections.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 31

Eagle

FLIGHT

S

t. Thomas is proud to be recognized by the prestigious National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) for the Eagles’ Nest Winter 2017 publication - the only private school among five honorees to accept Honorable Mention distinction and one of only three private institutions nationally to receive acclaim in the Magazine category.

Rescue Recover Rebuild Rejoice - Eagle Strong In The Year Of Hurricane Harvey vividly recounted the compelling personal trials and accounts from the St. Thomas community during the shattering developments and aftermath of an unprecedented weather crisis.

Eagle Strong conveyed an inspiring standard of grit and resilience that distinguished and dignified our constituents delivering their best during the worst of times, the most severe rainfall event in recorded United States history that hit the Greater Houston area hard with torrential rains and flooding in August 2017.

The NSPRA program received more than 1,000 entries this year and St.Thomas was selected among those recipients judged for national recognition for district and school communication efforts. Since 1935, NSPRA has provided training and services to school leaders throughout the United States, Canada, and the U.S. Dependent Schools worldwide.

This esteemed acknowledgement from NSPRA comes during a recent four-year media surge where St. Thomas has witnessed a significant upgrade in digital content and its publications.

These efforts have led to an unprecedented growth in social media that includes extraordinary results in reach, impressions, and engagement on multiple channels including sths.org, Facebook and Twitter.

32 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Eagle supporters are to be saluted for the active participation in raising the presence of St. Thomas and growing an everpowerful educational brand throughout not only Houston but the state and region.

DRIVEN TO EXCELLENCE

S

t. Thomas is proud to recognize Christian Groff ’19 who has earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout through Troop 55, the highest rank achievement in the Boy Scouts of America.

Groff continues the distinguished legacy of Eagle scholars throughout generations who have reached this milestone accomplishment that has been and continues to be richly recognized throughout the United States.

Groff’s exceptional commitment extends to his receiving the Bronze, Gold and Silver Eagle Palms, each representing the completion of five merit badges beyond the 21 required for the Eagle Scout rank, for a total of 37 badges, plus the Catholic Religious Emblems of Parvuli Dei, Ad Altare Dei, and Pope Pius XII. Originally founded in 1933 and sponsored by St. John the Divine, Troop 55 is the largest scouting group in the United States with more than 250 registered members (including Groff’s younger brother John ’20). Dedicated leaders and volunteers have now mentored, trained and assisted 597 young men to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout.

Groff’s distinguished scouting career will continue with Troop 55 as a volunteer, including serving as a junior troop leader for its summer program to Chile.

S

t. Thomas again contended among the nation’s elite Quiz Bowl performers at the prestigious High School National Championship Tournament.

The 20th annual event sponsored by the National Academic Quiz Tournaments (NAQT) drew the top teams featuring acclaimed individual talent from across the country, with 352 programs converging at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis hotel May 25-27.

Captain Tyler McStravick ’19, Nate Belcher ’18, John Cordes ’19 and Nicholas Kurzy ’20 won four of their first six preliminary round matches in a 10-match sequence, defeating Middlebury Union (Vermont), Davis (California), Hallsville R-IV (Missouri) and BASIS Independent (McLean, Virginia).

McStravick capped another scintillating individual season, concluding the competition with All-Star recognition after correctly answering 65 toss-up questions, including 16 earning bonus points. He ranked an impressive 35th among more than 1,660 preliminary scorers while Belcher finished in the top 30% overall.

A second St. Thomas team captained by Douglas Beirne ’19 competed with Trent Butler ’19, Nicholas Chandler ’20, and Creighton Ward ’21.

McStravick has proven to be a difference-making force within the St. Thomas program since his freshman year, making an immediate and measurable impact with a group of experienced performers, and leading the Eagles in 2018 to a no. 14 state ranking before the National NAQT. He was the dominant competitor at the Cajun Quiz Bowl event, teaming with Cordes and Chris Tan ’21 for an undefeated 10-match charge to the team title, and also partnered with Belcher, Tan and Douglas Fahrenholz ’19 for a fourth-place result at the Bayou City Classic.

In March, McStravick, Kurzy and Chandler defeated Baton Rouge Central to successfully defend the St. Thomas team championship at the 14th annual WWII High School Quiz Bowl, hosted by The National WWII Museum in New Orleans and sponsored by the New Orleans Advocate.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 33

Eagles’ Nest

FLIGHT

W

hen Aaron Dominguez ’96 was named the 27th principal of St. Thomas and first layman to serve that role in the institution’s illustrious history, the school was recognized as one of the most achieving all-boys schools in the nation, acclaimed among the top-five institutions in the state and top 50 in the country based on SAT and ACT scores, college admissions, matriculation rates, parent surveys, culture and diversity grades, and student-teacher ratio.

Since being named chief academic officer in June 2017 Dominguez has extended his “hands-on approach” to include a demonstrative role in the admissions process to further push St. Thomas strategically forward with a standard that respects and balances demanding academics in equal priority with a student’s personal exploration.

Dominguez believes “the new dynamic” will deliver immediate dividends beginning with the Class of 2022.

Charting a

confident

course

“More than 25% of our incoming freshmen scored in the top percentile of the HSPT (High School Placement Test) and ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam),” Dominguez said. “We’re pulling students across a wide variety of Catholic, private and public schools who are uniquely equipped both academically and spiritually to be the right fit at St. Thomas. In discussing our outcome with some highly respected superiors within the Houston pedagogy community, they are genuinely impressed with the quality and depth of our incoming class.”

Dominguez teamed with assistant principal Mary Criaco and the St. Thomas Admissions team in assembling an incoming freshmen class that portrays firm criteria essential to the Basilian mission and the school’s diversity and inclusivity commitment.

Criaco agrees that “this is one of the strongest academic classes St. Thomas has accepted in recent years when you evaluate test scores, previous performance and recommendations. There’s great range ... athletes, musicians, debaters, actors ... offering a deep variety of backgrounds and individual strengths. Many of the young men who will be arriving here are already on their way to becoming Men of St. Thomas both in terms of their skills and pursuits.”

Criaco and Dominguez adopted and implemented a fresh calculated approach to the admissions outreach, digging deep to target prospects in the demographic forecast.

“It was important for us to gauge how many ‘touches’ we had with a prospective student, how many times had they been on our campus, how often and to what degree had their parents been active in our events,” Dominguez said. “That process allows us to interact on a number of levels to see how they fit into our culture, our student body, our community, plus utilizing one-on-one interviews in an intimate setting.

“I asked parents directly, ‘What are you bringing to St. Thomas?’ I asked students, ‘What are you bringing to St. Thomas?’ Our analytics reflect that the most successful graduates are those with a great passion for St Thomas in its totality, and that’s what we believe our incoming freshmen represent.”

Those students will directly establish a four-year college preparatory plan with a team of savvy college admission counselors who work closely with universities across the country to forge relationships between St. Thomas students and admis- sions representatives. The Naviance Family Connection is an essential tool that supports a college-bound ethic by encouraging students to explore post-secondary educational options and organizing the college application process.

The Class of 2022 will be welcomed by a tech-packed 9,000 square foot redevelop- ment for Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Sciences and STEM, fostering an interactive community and culture for creative thinking and innovation.

Students with demonstrated or documented personal and academics needs will be well served by the St. Thomas Learning Enrichment Center.

34 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

The Class of 2022 is positioned to follow favorably in the wake of the acclaimed Class of 2018 which included four Finalists in the National Merit Program, seven National Merit Hispanic Scholars and 11 scholars who received National Merit Letters of Commendation.

At the vanguard were valedictorian Juan Castillo, who chose to continue his high-arcing academic career at Harvard University after also being accepted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the California Institute of Technology, and salutatorian Kenneth Dang, who is among nearly 40 St. Thomas seniors attending Texas A&M-College Station, including the 2018 Principal’s Service and Leadership Award winner Daniel Garcia, who will study Business and Economics, and Parker Rzasnicki, the recipient of the Carl Mitchell Allnoch Athletic Memorial Award for Excellence in Academics, who will major in Engineering.

In addition, the Class of 2018 represented ... n more than a dozen St. Thomas seniors attending the University of Texas-Austin to study Biomedical Engineering, Business Honors, Business and Economics n multiple Eagle scholars awarded Presidential Scholarships at Texas Tech University to study Business, Technology and Construction Science

St. Thomas prides itself on providing not only rigorous academics but also ample opportunities for students to explore extracurricular interests through its nationally recognized fine arts department, intensive drama and theater focus, premier private school athletics, advanced student media program, distinguished Quiz Bowl and speech & debate programs, and more.

“College preparatory must embrace qualified and diverse students who will learn from each other as well as from their experiences in the classroom,” Criaco said. “And St. Thomas reflects that.”

The Class of 2022 participated in the inaugural Camp Aquinas, a five-day orientation program designed specifically for incoming freshmen during the first week of the academic year that infuses the traditions and values of the 118-year Catholic Basilian institution while creating an accepting support system that allows students to forge relationships and embody the Eagle spirit. Camp Aquinas enhances the continued St. Thomas devotion to the total development of each student’s self-esteem, sense of purpose, and spirituality while cementing each Eagle within the school’s rich history.

“On registration night I met directly with each and every family and student, and there was measurable enthusiasm n Senior scholars were instrumental in St. Thomas earning from them to be at St. Thomas,” Dominguez said. “That’s inspiring for me and gives me great confidence that we first place in Academics at the 2018 TAPPS State Academic, Speech and Debate competition while claiming brought in the right class, the group that has great potential second overall in the combined Speech and Debate scores. for success and has the deep desire to reach that potential.”

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 35

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Eagle

SPIRIT

Vocational History Endures............................. p38 GDK Society Dinner Salutes Benefactors....................... p39 47th Annual Style Show & Luncheon......................... p41

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 37

Eagle

SPIRIT Vocational History

T

he Basilian Fathers with the extended St. Thomas community are joyfully proud to recognize the continued legacy of esteemed Eagle graduates who have joined and are rising through the ranks of the consecrated clergy.

Bishop Oscar Cantú ’85 of Las Cruces, New Mexico, has been appointed coadjutor bishop of San Jose, California, announced July 11 in Washington by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Earlier Fathers Robert David Hust ’00 and Paul Anthony Foltyn ’84 were ordained to the Sacred Order of the Priesthood June 2 with the imposition of hands and the invocation of the Holy Spirit by His Eminence Daniel Cardinal DiNardo celebrated at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Archbishop Emeritus Joseph A. Fiorenza and Auxiliary Bishop George A. Sheltz ‘63 concelebrated the ordination Mass with Cardinal DiNardo.

The three distinguished St. Thomas graduates are all native Houstonians who attended inter-loop Catholic elementary schools before entering college preparatory - Cantú at Holy Name, Hust at St. Thomas More and Foltyn at St. Vincent de Paul.

Cantú is the former chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on International Justice and Peace.

He is currently a member of the USCCB Subcommittee on the Church in Latin America

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ENDURES

O Jesus, our great High Priest, hear our humble prayers on behalf of your priests, Bishop Cantú, Father Hust and Father Folytn. Give them a deep faith, a bright and firm hope, and a burning love which will ever increase in the course of their priestly lives.

In their loneliness, comfort them; in their sorrows, strengthen them; in their frustrations, point out to them that it is through suffering that the soul is purified. Show them that they are needed by the Church, they are needed by souls, they are needed for the work of redemption.

O loving Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests, take to your heart your sons who are close to you because of their priestly ordinations, and because of the power which they have received to carry on the work of Christ in a world which needs them so much. Be their comfort, be their joy, be their strength, and especially help them to live and to defend the ideals of consecrated celibacy.

and the Subcommittee on Hispanic Affairs and was one of two delegates chosen by the bishops to represent the USCCB during Pope Francis’ visit to Mexico in 2016.

Before he was named to head the Las Cruces Diocese, Cantú was an auxiliary bishop of San Antonio for five years. He has master’s degrees in divinity and in theological studies from fellow Basilian University of St. Thomas and was ordained a priest in May 1994 for the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston.

Cantú spent his priestly career working in parishes throughout the Greater Houston area, first as parochial vicar at St. Christopher Parish and later as pastor at Holy Name Parish. He also taught at the UST and at St. Mary’s Seminary.

Hust (far left) will serve at St. Vincent de Paul following assignments at St. Michael and St. Helen in Pearland. His stay at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception in La Porte included the Houston International Seafarers Center at the Port of Houston.

Foltyn (second right) will serve at St. Cecilia having previously assisted St. Bartholomew the Apostle in Katy and his home parish Shrine of the True Cross in Dickinson. He also served summer assignments at St. Helen, St. Jerome and did a pastoral year at St. Francis de Sales.

Previously Foltyn and Hust were ordained to the Sacred Order of Diaconate in 2017 by Sheltz.

Eagle

SPIRIT

THE GIVING HABIT T

he principle of Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge was the central life-steering belief and foundation upon which the Basilian Fathers established St. Thomas in 1900. Today, that ideal continues to shape who we are as a community, and propel us into an even more robust future.

The annual GDK Society Dinner celebrates those supporters whose generosity with gifts of every size helps St. Thomas have an even greater impact on the areas that matter most to our prominent institution and unequalled brotherhood.

By investing in scholarships and student life, faculty and academic support, capital improvements and transformative opportunities, patrons help the Basilian Fathers drive the institution’s continued leadership and distinction in higher education.

As we celebrate moving forward, let us continue to frame every decision we make in our time-cherished values. Let us honor the generations of distinguished Eagles who came before us, and create an impressive future for those who come after us.

Not in pursuit of others. But in pursuit of the total measure of the Basilian mission.

See gallery of photos from the Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge Society Dinner on the following page.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 39

Eagle

SPIRIT

CONTINUED

40 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Eagle

SPIRIT

T

he River Oaks Country Club again provided the perfect spring setting for a sensational afternoon celebrating the 47th Annual Mothers’ Club Style Show & Luncheon honoring the Class of 2018 while benefiting the current and future Men of St. Thomas.

Great appreciation to event chairs Melissa Dolan, Kate Robertson and Holly Schlosser ... Dillard’s for providing exquisite women’s and men’s fashions ... fashion event producer par excellence Lenny Matuszewski collaborating with senior fashion stylist Tamara Klosz ... Casablanca Productions ... the accomplished St. Thomas Jazz Ensemble ... and the invaluable contributions from the host of Eagle mothers who empower the Basilian Fathers to teach goodness, discipline and knowledge.

And as is the grand Style Show custom ... no one flashed the sartorial struts quite like former president Fr. Kevin Storey, CSB and his fellow bastion of bespoke interim president Fr. James Murphy, CSB.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 41

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SPIRIT

CONTINUED

42 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

Back at the beginning ... before Matt Toomey had graded out A+ grinds and garnered a city-wide rep as Houston’s coffee cognoscente ... before he was founder, inspiration and director of his own specialty roaster ... right around when he secured banking backing and outbound marketing tactics ... and his coffee confidence was brimming that he could curate a more signature flavorful and forward customer experience ... back then, his enterprise simply needed ... a name.

State of the

BEAN

Meets Art of the

SHOP

So Matt Toomey reached back to yesteryear, to his studies at St. Thomas, and retrieved riveting moments of the city’s history, when Houston started as a literal and political hotbed in the nineteenth century and its livelihood depended upon cotton and commerce.

Then the first great oil gusher rocked the world and Houston was well positioned as an industrial stronghold at the genesis of the transportation and mass production age.

And Matt Toomey thought ... what best described Houston at its true beginning ... what was synonymous with the one-industry Big Oil town drenched in subtropical humidity and get-it-now chutzpah.

Easy.

Boomtown.

Hence, Boomtown Coffee.

In less than a decade the rapid growth of Toomey’s small-batch artisan endeavor isn’t nearly as emphatic as the Spindletop spike.

More of a journey as humble and determined as the coffee plant’s own modest origins, as rich as the liquid it creates.

Coffee is not a plant native to the Americas.

The North African shrub originated from a plateau in Ethiopia. Its true worldwide tour began with the Turkish conquests of the Arabian Peninsula during the early 16th century, diffused quickly throughout the Ottoman Empire and then to the New World’s tropical regions which revealed themselves ideal for cultivation and plantations. Central America’s first coffee harvest occurred in 1726. Today, Brazil reigns as the world’s most robust producer, claiming no fewer than 10 billion coffee plants.

The coffee that countless patrons sip, quaff and guzzle every morning, noon and night is actually the seed of a bitter red/purple fruit, nurtured by mother nature, infused with nutrients from the ground and the sky, harvested by hand when at its ripest, then pulped, washed, dried, graded for size and sorted, stored and packed - the world’s second most valuable export by developing countries (edged out only by, you guessed it, oil).

The two best known and important species of coffee are Arabica, grown at higher altitudes and accounting for more than 60 percent of world production, and the heartier Robusta found at lower altitudes while producing more coffee per tree. Two other species which are grown on a much smaller scale are Liberica and Excelsa.

Toomey’s personal intrigue for the brew began to percolate when he savored the aroma steaming from his grandmother’s stovetop pot processing the prescribed scoops from the 32-ounce Folger’s round red tin that sat in the kitchen.

“I’ve known that I’ve felt this pull to the product for a long time,” Toomey says. “Just the smell from the coffee maker is capturing but it’s more than nostalgic endearment. Coffee is the conduit for social engagement. There’s the history of the trade. And the coffee community is much deeper and broader than

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Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

CONTINUED

most understand. The qualities I’m about are reflected in that community.”

In a fiercely competitive market, Toomey’s operation has enjoyed a calibrated boom by rising above and beyond a business venture. Boomtown differentiates from the pack by emphasizing the premiums - carefully if not compulsively crafted concoctions quantified for a very specific character in tango with unparalleled customer-client relationships, all grounded in a true passion for the pursuit.

Yet Toomey’s most satisfying swallow of success doesn’t relate to Boomtown’s bulging bottom line.

“I’m a good dude ... good to people ... that’s what means the most to me,” Toomey says. “I’m not crushing with business savvy, not going to bust spreadsheets and run numbers. There have been and are some very special skilled people who provide what we need when we need it. I’m energized by creating the standard, empowering people, delegating authority, rewarding good work. In essence, being a fostering member of our growing community.”

“There wasn’t some sort of master plan about how we were about to be the next hot thing,” Toomey says. “It was just a matter of delivering high-quality product and service. We believed we could develop commercial traction. The strategy was simply let’s go and see what happens. So that’s what we did.”

And while Toomey was deep into the everyday detail he never lost focus on the horizon, his driving force fortified by a clear mind and calm demeanor.

“I’m energized by creating the standard, empowering people, delegating authority, rewarding good work. In essence, being a fostering member of our growing community.”

– Matt Toomey ’97

44 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

Earlier this year Boomtown acquired full ownership of the downtown hotspot, renamed Boomtown Coffee Main St. Café & Bar. “The move was exciting ... definitely the time to put on the big boy pants and get serious,” Toomey says. “It raised the Boomtown profile, created a larger market and a fresher market. There’s a downtown vibe that fits our identity ... a right mesh. And with that spotlight came more accountability, more awareness every day that everyone is responsible for representing the business well.”

“Confidence is having the humility to recognize when you’re not doing something right and willing to adapt,” Toomey says. “You can’t be afraid or apprehensive of change. There’s a right way to be wrong, and a wrong way to be wrong.

But what has also further distinguished Boomtown is a relaxed casual comfort where everyone gathers for friendly coffee craft, endless banter, luscious cappuccinos and espressos gurgling with double shots - all augmented by Toomey’s zeal for life and sense of humor. Those personal traits have consistently resonated with an admiring customer and employee base, and measured invariably when the collective resolve or bank balance was tested.

“Houston has a love for local. Being present every day is a huge factor ... being connected with our regulars and greeting those who arrive the first time. And you have to be attuned and receptive for when opportunities are made available. If you’re distracted by negatives you might miss

“There wasn’t a lot of money at home when I was in high school,” Toomey explains. “If not for Round-Up (the renown tuition assistance program), I

On March 24, 2012, Boomtown Coffee was born.

First impressions did indeed deceive.

Although Toomey spent the majority of his first two years hunched over a 2-kilo on-site roaster creating a wide spectrum of roast profiles ... some light, others full-bodied dark ... every coffee and every blend hitting a sweet spot with the intent to be consumed, not revered.

In the summer of 2014 Toomey aimed to “bring coffee downtown,” teaming with The Corinthian Bar Group (Grand Prize Bar, Bad News Bar, Lei Low Bar, OKRA and Big Star Bar) to open The Honeymoon Café & Bar at the prime corner of Congress Ave. and Main St., an expansion which properly filled the void in a caffeine wasteland and included an on-site 12-kilo roaster in the shop.

Boomtown has consistently featured single-origin beans bought directly from the farmer with a commitment to direct trade and sustainable sourcing. Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Colombia, and Ethiopia - regions that promise the broadest range of roast-ability.

Toomey may have mastered the Kalita Wave slow-brew method and learned the decided advantages of the Modbar system, but not before admittedly bouncing through the lower tiers of the city’s coffeedom laying the necessary foundation - from Toopees Coffee to Cafe Artiste to Cafe Luz. He serendipitously resisted when recruited to manage the struggling Heights Ashbury coffee house on W. 19th St., only to later buy out the business.

“I got there on opening day super early ... dark outside ... just dead on the street,” Toomey remembers. “I was thinking I hope this works ... doesn’t look all that promising.”

something. I feel fortunate to have had some opportunities. Seized some ... may have missed others.”

Through peaks, valleys and swirls Toomey has never broken bonds with family, friends and St. Thomas.

wouldn’t have lasted. Just as important to me ... there always seemed to be someone at the school who cared when you would need them most. I will always remember that ... will always be a part of who I am. My son Charlie is coming up on age 11 ... would love for him to be at St. Thomas.”

There’s another funnel of education that occupies Toomey’s current business focus which centers on green coffee buying, quality control and contracts. He’s actively involved in the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), a California-based nonprofit membership encompassing every element of the coffee value chain. The shared knowledge extends from farmers to baristas and roasters to owners, setting standards and certifying professionals.

Eagle

PRIDE

John Sage ’96 - Travel Agent For Change................p46 Paco Magsaysay ’86 The Gift For Gourmet..........p48 Young Alumni Event............p50

Toomey has dedicated a portion of his 5,000 square foot corporate headquarters on Hempstead Highway to serving as a space offering SCA professional development, including classes, testing and certification the only such program in Houston.

Toomey is an Authorized SCA Trainer and certified Q-grader by the Coffee Quality Institute (essentially the coffee equivalent of a sommelier). He feels a calling to shepherd the new generation, a vision very much aligned with the Basilian tenants of goodness, discipline and knowledge.

“It’s a natural progression for me,” Toomey says. “So many individuals have guided, mentored and facilitated my process. I intend to give back, especially for Houston coffee.

There’s a thirsty audience. I loved being taught, love teaching others, sharing my experience. It’s the most rewarding aspect of the business for me right now. And it’s a great pipeline for future talent.”

It’s a future where Toomey foresees St. Thomas offering a “coffee curriculum” as part of its academic inventory, including a student-operated Boomtown facility on campus which would expose Eagles to immediate and practical marketplace skills and business dynamics, plus geography, botany, agronomy and all the many links which unify the heritage and people in a global trade. Toomey would suggest all proceeds benefit Round-Up. Preserving cultures. Crop to cup. Generation to the next.

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 45

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

JOHN

SAGE ’96 TRAVEL AGENT OF

CHANGE

T

he burning desire of youth to reinvent the world never grows old.

John Sage ’96 was recognized by the Houston Business Journal in its 2018 40 Under 40 - a roster call of the city’s most important young entrepreneurs, creative leaders and brightest stars changing the rules of the game or creating entirely new playbooks.

Sage broke from a thriving engineering career and morphed an insatiable appetite for travel to become an acclaimed international travel provider in quicksilver fashion.

His personal wanderlust has included the sweeping, dramatic ocean views and pristine beaches of Santorini, Greece, the volcanic island in the Cyclades where Sage and his wife Tiffany were married in 2011.

He speaks directly to kayaking under an ancient Roman aqueduct in France ... wild and funky lambic brews in Belgium ... the Tuscan vineyards and hill towns of Montepulciano and Pienza ... opera performances at Teatro Massimo in Palermo.

Since 2001, Sage estimates 16 vivid visits to Europe and more than 140 cities.

All in his wheelchair.

A snow-skiing accident may have left Sage paralyzed from the waist but he has remained a relentless and robust man in motion ... locomoting without lower legs ... or limits.

“I was always a problem solver ... just the way I’m wired,” Sage says. “After the injury, it was ‘How do I load my wheelchair into my car?’ I’ll figure it out. ‘How do I travel in Europe?’ I’ll figure it out. ‘How will I continue my life?’ I’ll figure it out. I was just getting started and was still able to see so much enjoyment in front of me. And I was not going to feel sorry for myself.”

The roots for Sage’s steadfast determination and seemingly endless exploration were planted at St. Thomas where he continued a lengthy family legacy that includes his father John ’66, one in a select group of Eagle graduates inducted into both the school’s Hall of Honor and Sports Hall of Fame, along with assorted uncles and cousins.

“During my high school years I engaged a wide variety of classmates,” Sage says. “I always appreciated and valued the differences between people, cultures and languages. And I think that ignited a curiosity for the world and travel. And of course the academic background absolutely challenged and prepared me for LSU. My studies there led to Exxon Mobile. But really the foundation from St. Thomas would have supported my pursuits in any number of directions.”

The tumultuous turn in January 2001 was suffering a T-4 spinal cord injury at age 22.

After only six weeks of intense treatment at TIRR Memorial Hermann, one of the most renown and progressive rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, Sage was discharged and miraculously graduated in May with his Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering.

40 46 - Eagles’ Nest SFall pring 2016 2018

Eagles’ Nest

FEATURE

CONTINUED

During his twelve years at Exxon Mobil Sage was primarily responsible for computer models of underground oil and gas reservoirs. During that same time, his extensive European excursions in his manual wheelchair required the same sort of precision planning and exhaustive attention to detail required by his profession with a decided dose of trialand-error execution. As his first-hand experiences began to stack the notion of a viable business option was stoked.

Sage Traveling was launched in 2009 catering to clients with mobility issues as a resource for accessible travel in Europe. Sage’s thorough exploration empowered him to inform on details such as how many feet from a hotel to the nearest bus stop, routes that avoid cobblestones and how to access the elevator at the Eiffel Tower.

“Tiffany and I pooled enough capital to finance a two-year experiment,” Sage says. “The original concept was a website funded through advertising.

Didn’t work. Trip planning was the ticket. I had an engineering and spreadsheet skill set. I knew step by step processes. Just a trip rather than a gas well. We figured out search engine optimization and gradually had clients from Australia and Argentina booking trips to the Vatican and Paris.”

Sage was confident enough to leave his engineering career in January 2013 to devote his full focus to the business venture.

“There were more than a few skeptics,” Sage says. “I was leaving a world-class operation with a good salary and pension.

But the vision of working for myself was enticing. I went from one of the biggest and most prestigious companies in the world to maybe the smallest. Success was predicated on challenging conventional thinking. At Exxon Mobile, the process is essentially already in place.”

and it dawned on me that I was easily the most knowledgeable source in a trade show featuring thousands of professionals,” Sage says. “I made a strategic decision to launch a separate business to business company (Accessible Travel Solutions) and have developed shore excursion options in more than 80 ports.”

Client Testimonials for Sage Traveling I no longer talk about ‘a trip of a lifetime’ but of many trips of a lifetime. Seeing London was a dream come true for (my husband) Brian and for me to see it through his eyes. I thank you once again for making that possible. As Brain’s needs increase, I know people think we are quite crazy to attempt these trips but the joy they bring and the memories they create are all worth it.

- Suzanne and Brian, Electric Wheelchair User, Canada

We would like to thank Sage Traveling for helping us with our 5th-year wedding anniversary vacation to Rome … It was an incredibly comfortable and worryfree vacation and we have Sage Traveling to thank for such a memorable time and making our dream vacation come true. This trip has motivated my husband to explore the world and all it has to offer despite being wheelchair bound.

- Katya and Mohammed, Manual Wheelchair User, United States

Sage’s innovative outside the box mentality created demand - a wholesale operation that sold packages to travel agents in addition to the retail sales to customers he had previously established.

He expanded his European inventory to include Caribbean destinations. And Sage then encountered the breakthrough moment attending a 2014 travel agent convention in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, emphasizing cruise excursions.

Sage has emerged as the primary global tour operator focused exclusively on accessible travel. In 2016, he was named Tour Operator of the Year by Travel Weekly. In 2017, he finalized a partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines with additional cruise line relationships likely by the end of 2018.

“No one was talking about accessibility

In six years Sage Travel has transformed

from one full-time employee arranging 16 accessible trips to Europe, to a team of 13 highly specialized agents planning nearly 670 itineraries for travelers with impaired mobility.

“I think it’s rare when you can help people, create jobs, have a ton of fun and get paid for it,” Sage laughs. “It’s a grand slam home run. Our staff is all female who work from home. They were highly skilled professionals who decided to cut loose from the commutes and the office politics. We’ve assembled a really talented team.”

Sage continues to expand to fresh markets and seek exclusive services for those with special needs who hope to step - or roll - barrier-free out of their comfort zones ... whether a boat tour in Zurich ... snorkeling in Cozumel ... gondola views of mountaintop glaciers in Interlaken ... or wheelchair accessible transportation to the Notre Dame Basilica and the Roman ruins.

Sage’s energetic commitment to serve others is impacting beyond the travel circuit. He has volunteered as a TIRR peer to mentor recently-injured paraplegics and as a facilitator in the Bridges to Life prison ministry founded by his father ... and ridden his handcycle in several BP MS 150s, a two-day fundraising bike ride organized by the National MS Society to support research.

In the past, youth - and physical disabilities - were handicaps to professional success.

No more. Those who grew up in the tech age own ambitions unencumbered by tradition and status quo, perfectly suited to the dynamic, entrepreneurial and impatient digital world prioritizing greater inclusion.

The Houston Business Journal received nearly 500 nominations for its most recent 40 Under 40. A panel of judges from across industries scored the nominees on leadership, overcoming challenges and community involvement.

John Sage is one of the innovators, disruptors, rebels in the front lines of inspiration.

From a life-altering event bringing unimagined obstacles came an opportunity to pioneer a unique niche in the multi-billion dollar travel industry, all while providing a zeal and passage for what is priceless.

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THE GIFT FOR

GOURMET F

called for a pre-industrial small-batch method incorporating simply dairy, nuts, and optimal flavoring combinations. No additives. No water. Not a hint of mass production. Just 100% all-natural fresh cow’s milk and cream, and only the very best imported ingredients from around the world would be worthy for Carmen’s Best.

rancisco (Paco) Magsaysay ’86 finds himself in the midst of a freezing frenzy beyond his hottest and wildest imagination ... all while discovering a taste for what is most essential in life.

In roughly a decade his Carmen’s Best artisanal ice cream brand (named after Magsaysay’s only daughter born in 1997) is setting the standard while sweeping his native Philippines from supermarkets to stand-alone kiosks throughout metro Manila.

And for the supreme seal of approval – the highest honors from none other than His Holiness.

Two years ago on his return from a papal trip to the Philippines, Pope Francis sampled mini-cartons of Carmen’s Best aboard his airline charter. After sizable portions of Malted Milk, Pistachio and Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Magsaysay suddenly had the ultimate testimonial endorsement … the preferred choice of the pontiff.

How sweet is that?

Magsaysay’s entry into what has morphed into the frozen arts was quite by accident.

Or necessity. Or serendipity.

In 2007 his father Jun Magsaysay, a Filipino politician and businessman and the son of former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay, was part of a dairy farm purchase in Bay, Laguna. The intent was to deliver 100% fresh pasteurized milk to a market not conditioned for a

48 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

The finest vanilla beans from Madagascar, pistachios from Sicily, malted milk from England and chocolate from Switzerland were sought and acquired. premium brand with only a 10-14 day shelf life. However, the team couldn’t push product quickly enough and were left with a substantial supply glut.

Magsaysay’s intent was as simple as his recipe for ripe indulgence.

Paco began cold-calling prospective clients to expand the business, only to be met with a steady stream of slammed rejections.

With an emphasis on pure rather than profit margin, Carmen’s Best enjoyed steady if not substantial two-year momentum.

The game-changer proved to be a weekend encounter at the exclusive Amanpulo Resort, one-time playpen for the likes of Al Pacino and JFK Jr, where Beyonce and Brad Pitt have holidayed. The native New Zealander general manager instantly had an appreciation for Magsaysay’s luxurious offering which would be consistent with the ultra-standards of the secluded getaway. The exclusive nature of the account served as a much needed stabilizing corporate relationship and soon launched Magsaysay for future growth.

Yet the art of artisanal can be complex and time-consuming - the taking of a liquid, raising it to a high temperature, turning it into a solid in order to serve in a semisolid state. Then packaging, wholesaling, branding and distributing minus the clout of a global food giant such as Nestle or Unilever.

Magsaysay hatched an idea to churn much of the oversupply into ice cream.

But just not any confection. His vision

“Let’s sell this and see what happens.”

Fortunately for Magsaysay, the demand for dense and rich, smooth and creamy proved appealing to a demographic ranging from five-years-old to 80. He recognized his venture was more than mere dips for dessert. He was in part relating to a fabric of life, rich sensory experiences and memories that enabled his Carmen’s Best

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“There’s a lot of hard work, persistence and the Man upstairs that have gotten us to this point. Twelve-fourteen hours a day, seven days a week. And I got that ethic from living in the United States, that never-quit attitude. I value my time at St. Thomas. That was a disciplined culture that has stayed with me throughout my life.”

– Paco Magsaysay ’86

to bring about communal endeavors that connect generations.

Who doesn’t scream for ice cream?

Magsaysay was 12-years-old when he arrived in Houston from Manila. His eighth-grade year at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School was the stepping stone to St. Thomas. He then graduated from fellow Basilian University of St. Thomas with a degree in Marketing while working part-time at United Parcel Services and returned to the Philippines to apply his studies and experiences to the family business.

“I never thought I would be back in the United States.”

What brought Magsaysay back to Houston nearly two decades later was an ominous life-threatening, soul-gripping revelation.

Cancer.

The initial 2013 diagnosis in Manila prompted a second opinion at the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Given its groundbreaking research, innovative clinical care and superior resources and technology, Magsaysay was presented with a more hopeful opinion.

But his fight for life would demand an immediate chemotherapy cycle and five-year maintenance plan nonetheless, battling a deadly disease with treatment that often takes a toll all its own.

“At the beginning (of the treatments) I thought I was going downhill because the

chemo can be a crusher on your system,” says. “I didn’t know if I should get my personal and professional affairs in order, expecting the worse. One day you’re thinking you’re near the halftime of your life and then the next you are suddenly hit with what could be a fast forward to the fourth quarter … maybe the final two minutes.”

But Magsaysay’s cancer was identified in the earliest stages and he cleared his latest MD Anderson checks to cease his yearly mandated visits.

“In a way, cancer was a blessing,” Magsaysay says matter-of-factly. “The disease wasn’t strongly developed yet. It was found and treated quickly. I had access to the best medical assistance. And the danger causes you to take inventory of your life and eliminate distractions, make time for what is most precious. That attitude can be life-changing in and of itself. I became more patient with people and circumstances, more tolerant. That aura you convey reinforces within you a confidence of what is right. The belief that every day is a blessing can and does have an influence on others in your path. I believe everything in life happens for a reason, every relationship happens when it’s supposed to happen.”

What is happening for Magsaysay is an ever larger imprint in the small world of high-end ice cream crafted the oldfashioned way.

Carmen’s Best now features more than 30 flavors - from Salted Caramel, Brazilian

Coffee and Green Tea to Butter Pecan, Birthday Cake and Coconut Cookie Dough.

Even Avocado, Ube and Turkish Baklava.

Seriously.

The latest expansion includes a direct-tomarket enterprise in the Galleria-esque Glorietta 3 in Makati which serves shopping, dining and entertainment offerings in the vibrant convergence point of the central business district.

Undoubtedly a sweet spot for a scoop shop.

Magsaysay is also considering exporting to Southeast Asian countries soon.

He is humbly proud to have molded such powerful prestige through a pursuit through product purity, creating a pedigree identified with artfulness and innovation, if not rainbow sprinkles.

And award-winning recognition aside, Magsaysay is motivated by more than collaborating on ice cream concoctions and mastering the marketplace. Since starting operations in 2011, the company has donated a portion of its proceeds to the Philippine General Hospital’s Medical Foundation in Manila, a non-profit organization providing health care for indigent patients.

A philanthropic effort most consistent with the Basilian credo of Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge.

How sweet is that?

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Eagle

PRIDE

Saint Arnold Brewing Company always serves the hoppiest of Happy Hours!

Another awesome Eagle turnout with our fellow Catholic school craft enthusiasts from Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart, St. Agnes Academy, Incarnate Word Academy, St. Pius X and Strake Jesuit for the annual and always notable Young Alumni gathering.

Stay social with St. Thomas. Connect with STHCatholic on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram ... follow, click, share, like and retweet.

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We look forward to seeing you ... n n n n

n n n

Homecoming Weekend October 5-6 Eagle Eye Clay Shoot September 29 at Houston Gun Club Alumni Rooftop Tailgate October 19 Annual Auction & Gala, honoring Dona and Al Clay ’61 November 3 Good Ole Boys Luncheon November 19 Alumni 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in December 28th Annual St. Thomas Golf Tournament upcoming in the spring of 2019.

We salute our supporters who are enriching relationships with individuals who have or are developing an affinity for St. Thomas.

Most importantly, let us know how we may further fortify our brotherhood unlike any other.

Contact Alumni Relations Associate Sebastian Domenech ’10 at Sebastian.Domenech@sths.org.

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TEXANS I

PRESIDENT

DEEPLY

ROOTED in Success/Admiration for St. Thomas 52 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

n the rapid rise career of Texans President Jamey Rootes readily admits to the critical role of relationships rather than the sheer self-reliance of individual wizardry.

Relationships nurtured and cemented by an indomitable verve and energy that have characterized his professional ascent.

First and foremost, a lasting relationship with owner Bob McNair ignited by a dynamic first encounter that struck an immediate chord and led Rootes to Houston where he has emerged as a driving force within a franchise ranked No. 9 on the 2017 Forbes list of the most valuable among the NFL at $2.6 billion, a year-over-year increase of nearly 40%.

Relationships empowered Rootes to help raise not only the exposure of the franchise and city ... but also plot the Texans highly-acclaimed customer service strategy ... orchestrate the Texans Foundation which has raised more than $30 million since 2002 benefiting underserved children in Houston ... and establish Houston as one of the leading soccer and collegiate championship markets in the United States.

Relationships positioned Rootes as vice-chair of the Host Committee for Super Bowl 51 hosted at NRG Stadium ... 2016 Houston Business Journal Business Person of the Year ... 2016

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chairman of the Greater Houston Partnership, whose board consists of 130 of the city’s preeminent movers and shakers ... and twice among the distinguished Forty Under 40 list of leading sports executives by SportsBusiness Journal.

Essential relationships which at the core are value aligned.

And that very credo intrigued Rootes with St. Thomas when seeking and deciding on the college preparatory experience for his son Chris ’20.

“My wife Melissa and I obviously wanted our son to be thoroughly prepared for the academic demands of whatever college he would choose and I knew right away St. Thomas provided that at the highest level,” Rootes says. “We also agreed that St. Thomas offered an enriching experience that was just as important as the gains in the classroom.

We certainly recognized the strong element of brotherhood and Chris has developed a great base of friends who project to be part of his inner circle for many years to come. Most importantly is the diversity of that group. It crosses ethnic, economic and geographical.”

Rootes firmly believes that “you have to live in the world where it is, relate and respect people from all corners, discover where others come from and hopefully lead to their understanding of where you come from. Ivory tower institutions do not properly prepare young men for the culture they’ll face in the future. I wanted to make sure Chris participated in a highly contrasting experience. St. Thomas has definitely delivered.”

In much the same way the move to Houston has paved the way for Rootes to thrive in a variety of far reaching roles within the multi-tiered hierarchy of the Texans.

Once the NFL awarded McNair an expansion team in 1999 for a record $700 million price, Rootes joined forces as vice president for marketing and sales for the inaugural 2002 season. He had launched Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew as president and general manager where he was MLS Executive of the Year in 1996 and Marketing Executive of the Year in 1999 after corporate stays with IBM and Procter & Gamble and earning his MBA from Indiana University.

“When I met Bob the first day, we saw the world the same way,” Rootes says. “His method is high character, high integrity, high expectations. His absolute intent from day one was to build with the right type of players and the right type of staff supporting that group, all reflecting the values of Houston. I recognized immediately we would walk like champions, work like we’re in last place, always perform with optimism that tomorrow will be better than today. And to this day all of us in the organization adopt the attitude we are caretakers of a community asset. The Texans experience belongs to the fans. It’s our responsibility to deliver to their expectations.”

And the franchise under the McNair-Rootes tag-team has emphatically made the mark. That passionate fan base has sold out all 154 home games since the Texans’ inception. The streak is a Houston NFL record and a testament to “The Texans experience the quality of game day service and entertainment belongs to the fans. provided. With every It’s our responsibility Texan home game to deliver to their available on broadcast expectations.” television, the waitlist for – Jamey Rootes season tickets stands at 30,000.

“One of the compelling factors in joining the Texans at the beginning was the blank canvas knowing there was a bigger game to be played, an opportunity to create something that Houston had never seen,” Rootes says.

“The first day in this city I was blown away with the identity of being a Texan.

It’s so powerful. No one place on the planet identifies with a way of life like Texans. Our name and over-arching experience resonated immediately. So whether it’s Sundays at NRG, or the NFL Draft party or our Texans Care Volunteer Day, the goal is always to impact throughout the community to make a difference.”

Rootes inherited a McNair mission statement that encompasses more than winning football results and creating memorable experiences for fans. The third pillar of imperatives is always to provide great happenings for Houston beyond the NFL. Rootes is president of Lone Star Sports & Entertainment (LSSE), the event and sports marketing company associated with the Texans which has established Houston as one of the leading event destinations in the United States.

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NRG Stadium will host the College Football Playoff national championship game in 2024.

city, beamed throughout the world,” Rootes says. “It’s all in our part in helping make Houston the best in America.”

In 2006 LSSE resurrected the city’s diminishing bowl game which had lost $1 million the previous year, assumed the debt and in roughly a decade elevated the event into the fourth best-attended bowl game behind only the Rose, Cotton and Peach Bowls. Along with the AdvoCare Texas Kickoff staged Labor Day weekend, the pair has raised nearly $1.4 million in financial support for DePelchin Children’s Center, Houston’s oldest children’s charity and the bowl’s official charitable beneficiary.

During the spring and summer runup to the 2018 Texans season, Rootes collaborated with new general manager Brian Gaines on a $6 million internal facility makeover which “takes us from good to best in class.”

NRG Stadium has also become a regular venue in the twoyear rotation for the CONCACAF Gold Cups (determining the continental soccer champion of North America, Central America, and the Caribbean) ... hosted a historic Manchester Derby featuring Premier League titans Manchester United and Manchester City and held outside of the United Kingdom for the first time in its 174-game history ... plus the 2010 MLS All-Star Game which drew nearly 71,000 ... and the Mexican National Team 16 times, establishing Houston as the U.S. home for El Tri. Such rich recent history will likely prove favorable for Houston hosting World Cup matches among 10 U.S. cities in the winning North American bid for 2026.

All of which spikes a particular pride for Rootes above and beyond being a two-time national soccer champion at Clemson (1984 and ’87) when he wasn’t serving as student body president.

“Many of those involvements are huge for the image of our

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“We transformed into a state of the art, league-leading environment,” Rootes says. “We touched every aspect, from weight training to sports performance to food service and nutrition with our partners Aramark and Sysco. Given the parity in the NFL, we as an organization must search out every advantage to give the Texans the best possible edge to win a championship.”

Rootes characterizes his tenure with the Texans as “promises on the front end that have been absolutely fulfilled.” And applies the same ripe description for his ongoing affinity for St. Thomas where he has become an ardent supporter.

In the spring of 2017, Rootes provided a galvanizing testimonial during a campus event welcoming potential parents and students. In reaching out to those who would later form the newest members of the Eagle community representing the Class of 2021, he retrieved an invaluable slice of advice he had received just weeks into his college introduction from a savvy sophomore that made an indelible impression.

“Jamey, don’t ever let academics get in the way of a good education.”

Relationships. Values aligned. Progress in the pursuit.

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Glory Road.................................................... p56 Gary Hall - Man in Motion For Eagle Basketball ................................... p62 Going 10 Rounds With Jerrod Johnson............................................. p64

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glory road

Difficult is why footprints are on the moon.

If the road were easy, it often meant going the wrong way.

Difficult challenges limits and reveals potential. No matter how daunting the struggle ... difficult is worth it. Difficult makes us who we are.

Six luminaries traveled the difficult climb of most resistance and ascended to the greatest heights afforded an Eagle student-athlete induction into the St. Thomas Sports Hall of Fame, remembered and revered at a ceremony before a vibrant and supportive crowd May 12 in Cemo Auditorium.

For Jeff McCurry ’88, the distinction and festivities were “right there with getting called up for the first time to the major leagues ... very similar ... nerves ... excitement ... didn’t really hit me until tonight ... really cool.”

For Andrew Locke ’03, the celebration delivered a firm affirmation of the “formative four years that greatly influenced my moral and ethical development. Athletics played a major role in terms of understanding what is required to be an effective leader and paved the way for what I’ve been able to accomplish at West Point and in the Army.”

For Remon Smith ’84, a distinguished high school football and track coach with a near quarter century mentoring studentathletes in the Greater Houston area, his induction deepened an acknowledgement that “St. Thomas is where it really all began for me. This is where we were all shaped as young men. This is the kind of

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impact I hope I am providing, what my St. Thomas coaches did for me.”

Keavin ’73 and Kelly McDonald ’77 discovered up close and personal a double dose of such powerful coaching prowess that developed molded young men into prominent people as well as performers.

Not when both advanced to play for iconic collegiate sideline masters who both remain the most successful at their respective schools, but more emphatically at St Thomas where the McDonalds were witnesses since old enough to more or less complete a direct 40-yard sprint to the daily, yearly and everlasting teachings of their legendary Eagle gridworld father Joe. And now the McDonalds have entered Eagle enshrinement as a threesome.

Richard Kristinik ’57 appreciated a similar brotherly bond made all the more meaningful by times with and around Don ’56, Bill ’62 and John ’63.

An acclaimed two-sport athlete who earned six varsity letters and was a four-time member of the St. Thomas Club, Richard springboarded to an acclaimed AllAmerican baseball career at Rice and then distinguished service with former Big Five accounting firm Arthur Andersen & Co. Kristinik passed away in 2017 at age 78. He was honored by Bobbie Burke Kristinik, his wife of more than 53 years.

“More than anything else Richard was a man of faith and that was firmly rooted here at St. Thomas,” she says. “Whatever he did,

whether baseball or business, he did with all his heart. And even with all his success, he remained humble and treated people with the respect they deserved. He was extremely proud of being an Eagle and attending St. Thomas. He would have been just as proud to be part of this group tonight.”

The vivid glory day memories from yesteryear are forever embossed on the brain.

Smith’s near-and-dear indelible moment came at Delmar Stadium, taking a last-tick kickoff return the distance for a stunning win over Sam Houston.

“Middle wedge and I broke it to the outside and went up our sideline,” Smith says with obvious delight. “At midfield, it was over.

No one was catching me from behind. And coach (John ) Carrigan was running just as fast as I was. He met me in the end zone.

Triple zeros on the clock. On their turf.”

Smith was a key contributor to a pair of state football championships but most cherishes “winning the state track title for coach (Jim) Schwarzbach” in 1984 on a day when Smith was a Carl Lewis-like tour de force.

“I won the long jump, the 200 meters, was part of the winning 4x100 relay and anchored the 4x400.”

Smith’s daunting display cemented the first Eagle track crown since 1978 and only the second in 24 years.

Even with state championship renown spread across three Eagle sports, Locke holds his rugby experience with a savory satisfaction.

“I started playing the sport in the fifth grade and it always meant a great deal to me,” Locke says. “The program here wasn’t really established yet, more of a club sport with guys from all over Houston, more social than competitive. That changed. My intent was if I’m investing, we are out here to accomplish something. We laid the foundation (for five state championship from 2008-13) and left it better than we found it.”

Yet Locke readily admits that nothing quite compared to “Friday night lights in Texas ... on the road against larger public schools, often times for their Homecoming. They would schedule us thinking they would feast on a bunch of private school boys and clean us out. And we went into places like Santa Fe and Wharton and turned the tables. Special times.”

Special for McCurry was “my senior year when we reached the Final Four of the Houston Jaycees (rebranded HISD) Basketball Tournament ... the only private to reach that far ... beat public schools with big-time talent and then ran into Milby with Chris Walker (future Villanova star before embarking on two-decade college coaching career).

“My sophomore year we won the state baseball championship after a 20-year drought. I played first base and right field, pitched behind Robert Lozano (fifth all-time wins at Centenary) and Robbie Howard (sixth all-time innings pitched at Rice).”

Before he was selected in the 14th round in 1991 by the Pittsburgh Pirates, McCurry generated significant two-sport buzz on the national recruiting circuit resulting in piles of mail from across the country cascading into coaches offices soliciting his stamp of approval.

“I went to Arizona State during high school and my roommate was Paul Byrd (future 15year MLB career),” McCurry says. “Later when I was playing at San Jacinto I was entertained at LSU and met up with Byrd again, and Chad Ogea (1997 World Series with the Cleveland Indians) and Keith Osik who I played with in Pittsburgh. Just an awesome weekend. We always seemed a bit connected. And as it turned out we all saw many of our baseball dreams come true.”

Keavin McDonald was a two-time AllAmerican and the 1972 Catholic Player of the Year in leading Eagle Football to consecutive state championships in 197172, all of which paled in his view to the three-year sweeping success in the series with Strake Jesuit.

Making the recruiting rounds meant trips to “Notre Dame, Houston, LSU. I visited Tulane, sort of. Got into New Orleans on a Friday night. There was a Saturday morning introductory breakfast. An assistant coach comes in, says he heard of some antics the night before on Bourbon Street. I had no idea what he was talking about but he rushed us all back to the airport to send us home. Never met the head coach. I signed with Baylor.”

And as a sophomore linebacker, he was a part of the 1974 Miracle on the Brazos champions, the program’s first in 50 years, orchestrated by Grant Teaff, and represented the Southwest Conference for the first time in the 1975 Cotton Bowl against Penn St. The prevailing logic had Kelly following his older brother’s track to Waco. But the three-sport letterman, and two-time all-state and All-American football star who anchored consecutive Eagle state championships in 1975-76 had other ideas.

“I was really looking forward to my recruiting visit to Notre Dame. Flew into Chicago ... big weather delay ... took a bus into South Bend ... arrived six and seven hours late ... ended up leaving almost as soon as I got there. Those were the Dan Devine years.

They had just won the national title (after a thorough 38-10 thrashing of no. 1 Texas and Earl Campbell in the 1978 Cotton Bowl). I could have been a teammate of Joe Montana. Ended up playing against him.”

The very next season, in fact, in the very same New Year’s Day venue in Dallas after Kelly opted for the University of Houston. His Cougar career included at least a share of three Southwest Conference championships and four consecutive bowl games from 1978-81, the zenith of the treasured Billy Yeoman tenure.

Smith’s college pursuers were a bit more off the radar. He was targeted by D-III Randolph-Macon in Virginia where he “sent a recruiting tape to (head coach) Jim Blackburn. A few days later I got a phone call and he says he watched two plays ... turned off the video ... sent me a one-way ticket.”

Smith would enjoy a strong stay. He remains the all-time leading rusher in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference with 4,276 yards and is fifth all-time in rushing touchdowns with 39.

Locke hosted college invitations and options while keeping the process highly selective. He was pursued by West Point as a quarterback but had to be convinced by his father to make the on-campus visit.

“It was a free trip ... why not take advantage,” Locke says. “I showed up, the weather was miserable, and after two hours I was hooked. Couldn’t have more impressed by these highly dedicated Americans choosing to be a part of the Academy, all leaders of character for our military and our country. I was quickly convinced this was the environment I wanted.”

Locked transitioned exclusively to rugby as a freshman and emerged as an AllAmerican performer. He later captained extensive championship accomplishment and distinction on the international stage, including a role with USA Rugby at the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. Locke was deployed to Iraq as a Stryker vehicle platoon leader, followed by three mission-specific Ranger engagements in Afghanistan before retiring from the active Army in October 2017.

McCurry has remained tight to the St. Thomas community, lending his savvy MLB experience and expertise to Eagle Baseball and the St. Thomas Booster Club. His daughter Maddy (St. Agnes ’15) was the 2014 Homecoming Queen and will graduate from LSU in 2019. Sons Grayson and Cameron ’21 have repeated Jeff’s path to St. Thomas.

He perhaps captures the collective soul of his five fellow inductees when he speaks not to the measure of personal prestige, of wins and awards, but to the invaluable and unbroken bonds that have united Eagles generation after generation.

“Ultimately your athletic experience at any level is about your teammates,” McCurry says with bases loaded two-out 3-2 pitch conviction. “When I go back on the field today (assisting head coach Ryan Lousteau) I see that same camaraderie I had decades ago. Guys busting each other one minute, defending each other the next. Pushing each other, supporting each other, hanging out together. You can’t coach it, teach it, demand it. You have it or you don’t. At St. Thomas it’s here. And it remains inside of you forever.”

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The St. Thomas Sports Alphabetically, the 2018 inductees are:

RICHARD KRISTINIK ’57 n acclaimed two-sport athlete who earned six varsity letters and was a four-time member of the St. Thomas Club n accepted scholarship to Rice University when he hit .422 during senior season while winning the 1961 Southwest Conference batting title n three-time all-SWC and third-team AllAmerican in ’61 n signed with the Baltimore Orioles after graduation n served in the Marine Corps Reserves n distinguished professional career with former Big Five accounting firm Arthur Andersen & Co. in Houston, Tulsa and Denver where he served as Managing Partner n passed in 2017

ANDREW LOCKE ’03

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Hall of Fame Class of 2018 JEFF MCCURRY ’88 n dominant two-sport student-athlete nationally recruited in both basketball and baseball n three-time all-state and two-time all-Greater Houston basketball standout while averaging double-figures in points and rebounds n accepted a baseball scholarship opportunity to Texas Christian University before transferring to national power San Jacinto Junior College with College Baseball Hall of Fame icon coach Wayne Graham, appearing in two JC World Series Championship games

n prolific student-athlete career earning 10 varsity letters while also emerging as cornerstone talent in establishing Eagle Rugby as the premiere high school program in Texas n 2003 TAPPS Male Athlete of the Year n two-year starting quarterback passing for 5,587 yards and 50 touchdowns while rushing for 1,021 yards n two-time state champion wrestler and three-time state finalist selected as the outstanding performer in the 2003 competition after entering the tournament unseeded and then defeating the nos. 4, 3, 2 and 1 seeds in capturing the gold medal

n 14th round draft selection in 1991 by the Pittsburgh Pirates n made his MLB debut in 1995, appearing in 55 games n his five-year pitching career included stays with the Tigers, Rockies and Astros n two-decade investment career as vice president and senior financial advisor with Merrill Lynch, customizing financial strategy specifically designed for clients

n selected to 2002 and 2003 USA Rugby National U19 teams n two-time collegiate rugby All-American and senior captain as Army collected three top-8 finishes at the USA Rugby National Collegiate Championship Tournament during his career n three-year captain as a six-year member of the Army Select-Side 7s team which won the U.S. Military Championship 7s Tournament five consecutive years n invited by USA National 7s to compete for a position on the 2016 Olympic team

n member of 4x400 state champion relay team that clinched both the 2002 and 2003 state team titles

n deployed to Iraq as a Stryker vehicle platoon leader, followed by three mission-specific Ranger engagements in Afghanistan

n catalyst for Eagle Rugby in securing the first Texas State Rugby championship, advancing to the 2003 USA Rugby National High School Championship Tournament where St. Thomas finished 7th in the nation

n retired from the active Army in October 2017 to accept a position with Palantir Technologies, a private American software and services company which specializes in big data analysis while continuing his military career with the National Guard

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The St. Thomas Sports KEAVIN MCDONALD ’73

n two-time All-American and the 1972 Catholic Player of the Year in leading Eagle Football to consecutive state championships in 1971-72

Southwest Conference in the 1975 Cotton Bowl against Penn St.

n accepted scholarship opportunity with Baylor University and College Football Hall of Fame coach Grant Teaff

n three-decade law career in Houston where he currently maintains a private practice specializing in bankruptcy, creditordebtor, litigation and commercial real estate

n sophomore linebacker on the 1974 Miracle on the Brazos champions, the program’s first in 50 years, and represented the

n son of STH Sports Hall of Fame member Joe McDonald and brother of 2018 inductee Kelly McDonald ’78

KELLY MCDONALD ’78 n three-sport letterman, and two-time all-state and All-American football star who anchored consecutive Eagle state championships in 1975-76 n accepted scholarship to University of Houston and College Football Hall of Fame coach Bill Yeoman n distinguished two-decade professional career and current regional sales manager at Ash Grove Cement Company in Houston n son of STH Sports Hall of Fame Joe McDonald and brother of 2018 inductee Keavin McDonald ’73

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Eagle

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Hall of Fame Class of 2018 REMON SMITH ’84

The St. Thomas Sports Hall of Fame was established by the Alumni Association in n versatile three-time state champion and acclaimed honor roll studentathlete n key contributor and team captain in leading Eagle Football to state championships in 1981 and ’83, and Eagle Track in ’84 n all-state running back in 1982, all-state track in 1982-84 where he excelled in the long jump, 200 meters, and the 400 and 1600 meter relays n stellar career at D-III Randolph-Macon in Virginia from 1984-87 where he remains the all-time leading rusher in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference with 4,276 yards and is fifth all-time in rushing touchdowns with 39 n earned first-team ODAC recognition in 1986-87 n distinguished high school football and track coaching career in the Greater Houston area, mentoring student-athletes at Klein Forest, Westbury, Nimitz and MacArthur with consistent record-breaking, all-district and allstate results for a near quarter century

1998 to commemorate exceptional Eagle athletic accomplishment while celebrating lifelong excellence consistent with the Basilian motto of Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge.

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t. Thomas Athletic Director Mike Netzel announced in May Gary Hall as the next head coach of Eagle Basketball, a noted developer of talent and gifted tactician with a rich history of championship caliber success in building and maintaining programs with a strong commitment to priority in academics.

With more than a quarter-century of superior head coaching experience in Northern Virginia, Hall is a proven leader, proven winner, and focused competitor who develops great rapport with studentathletes and their families, establishing an immediate trust and long-standing relationships that last beyond the college preparatory experience.

“There was great interest in this position and the more I learned about Gary, the more convinced I became that he is the exact fit we need to meet our ambitious expectations for many years to come,” Netzel said. “Gary is a high-energy, high-integrity person, with a thick and extensive background rooted in winning, not simply coaching a varsity team but executing all aspects of the program and galvanizing a group with great communication for a clear and decisive purpose.”

After two stints at Herndon High School, Hall posted an overall 392-189 record with eight conference championships, one regional title and three state tournament appearances.

His 2006 team reached the Virginia AAA championship final with three-time Virginia Player of the Year and McDonald’s AllAmerican Scottie Reynolds, who later earned All-American distinction at Villanova leading the Wildcats to the 2009 NCAA semifinals, the program’s first Final Four appearance since the 1985 national championship.

In his one season at private Middleburg Academy, Hall orchestrated a 28-6 campaign with the conference championship and a no. 2 final ranking in the Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association.

During his tenure in Northern Virginia, Hall coached more than three dozen studentathletes who advanced their careers to the collegiate level, including future Duke All-American and national champion Grant Hill, an eventual seven-time NBA All-Star.

“My responsibility is to put student-athletes in the best position possible to be successful,” Hall said. “Where I’m most proud is that

62 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

MAN IN MOTION my previous teams competed hard every single night. There was a cause within the program that drove each and every player regardless of talent or playing time to perform with maximum effort and purpose.

“Basketball is important to me and I bring an enthusiasm and intensity. And you look for the same from the school and the administration. St. Thomas has much of the same great tradition that I saw in many of the schools in the (Washington Catholic Athletic Conference). The goal here is not to win a USA Today national championship but I absolutely believe there are goals both in Houston and in the state that we can reach that hasn’t yet been accomplished.”

In June 2016, Hall made what he called “a family decision, not a teaching or coaching decision,” resigning at Herndon after 23 years to relocate and take over the same position at Nacogdoches High School in East Texas so as to live in the same state as his twin daughters, Morgan and Ashley.

Hall inherited a program that won one game the previous season and ignited a quicksilver change, racking 23 victories and the district championship, advancing through two rounds of the UIL state playoffs to the 5A regional quarterfinals.

“I’m fortunate that I was positioned for St. Thomas to chose me to lead the immediate future and I chose to be a part of St. Thomas because of the great dedication and resources needed to support a model where best is the standard. That will be our theme to start ... best is the standard,” Hall said.

Last season Eagle Basketball finished 16-16 and was eliminated in first round of the TAPPS 6A playoffs after consecutive trips to the state semifinals in 2016-17.

In 2008 the Eagles ended a 17-year state championship drought and then followed with the program’s most recent title in 2011.

Netzel’s due diligence researching and evaluating new leadership included emphatic endorsements and rave reviews of Hall from former Rockets assistant and University of Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, and one-time Rice University head coach Mike Rhoades who was as an assistant at Virginia Commonwealth from 2009-14 before accepting the head coaching job at VCU in 2017.

“The consensus is that Gary is first and foremost a teacher,” Netzel said. “In equal measure, he is a difference-maker in terms of in-game strategy and adjustments. And his teams and players improve, every game, every season, not just the elite talents but the student-athletes whose last basketball is at St. Thomas. There’s a great balance integrating those two groups that is crucial in our program.”

Hall’s on-court results are predicated on a style of play influenced if not dictated by the personnel available while the brand of basketball is never negotiable. His teams are known for their team-oriented offense and stout defense. But most importantly is his pedigree, vision and plan to serve as the architect of Eagle Basketball.

“I want kids in the Houston area growing up wanting and striving to be basketball players at St. Thomas,” Hall said. “That’s a challenge but we’ll cultivate the relationships through summer camps here on campus and become a more visible presence at youth league games, creating a buzz and a style of play that drives interest in our program and our school.

“I see this as a great opportunity to grow as a coach and establish new relationships.

Reckling Gymnasium is my new home.

I’m attending an AAU tournament this weekend and I can’t wait to wear the Red and White representing St. Thomas.”

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 63

E

agle Football assistant coach and former two-sport sensation at Humble High School before becoming a recordsmashing quarterback at Texas A&M tackles a speed round of questions.

Q

This summer you participated in first American Flag Football League competition featured on the NFL Network. How did you get involved?

A

Last year I was part of a mock concept to test the viability as a competition and television product. The organizers liked what they saw and I was asked to return. Tons of fun. Anyone who has played in the backyard or in the street or at the rec center can relate.

Q

In the first full season, your slinging for Team Ocho captained by Chad (Ochocinco) Johnson ... racked 371 yards and four touchdowns leading into the semifinals of a tournament that paid $1 million to the winner.

Did Ochocinco ever return to the huddle and not yap that he was wide open?

A

Never. Not a single time. But that’s all receivers. Maybe worse in flag because everyone but the center is eligible. No different than third-grade recess. You get used to it.

I actually played with Ocho in Montreal (of the Canadian Football League)

GOING 10 ROUNDS WITH

JEROD JOHNSON

64 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

and he’s much different than the extreme public persona. Reserved even at times on the field. Genuinely down to earth ... good teammate ... and absolutely loves and cares about the game.

Q

In your career at A&M and various NFL training camps, who was the most outrageously talented team- mate regardless of reputation?

A

I’ve got three. Von Miller at A&M. The proverbial freak and you’ve seen what he’s done with the Broncos.

Michael Goodson at A&M was an absolute pure football athlete ... could play running back, receiver, cornerback ... whatever he wanted to do anywhere on the field ... just line up and go. And Antonio Brown with the Steelers. Have never seen a receiver accelerate at full speed at any distance and make one cut and be out of his break. Insane.

Q

NFL game situation, quarterbacking a drive and facing third-and-12 from midfield. What unfolds from the time you hear the play in your helmet from the sideline?

A

I get Trey right, three jet, dancer, z comeback, kill, four paint. It’s formation protection, the routes. Kill identifies a predetermined audible to four paint.

Trey is three receivers to the left, one

to the right. Dancer is four verticals into quadrants to evenly distribute the field.

I know, it’s all about what I can get the players to perform. You have to tap into the physique of the player, decide how much can they absorb and execute. And then their talent becomes evident.

Q

What’s the one memorable moment from playing basketball at Humble that will last with you forever?

A

My senior year. Home game against Kingwood. Big district rival. They were on a state tournament streak (three consecutive years including What’s the one memorable moment the 2005 state title). Our gym was from playing at A&M that will last packed ... crazy loud ... crazy hot. with you forever?

I played well and we won. Awesome feeling. And now that court is named Senior Night in 2010. I’m a second after my dad (Larry Johnson Court). generation Aggie. My father had The ball is snapped. With two passed away. I was in the tunnel safeties, the progression is inside If you had bounced with hoops next to last for introductions. My seam, then outside seam, and the rather than the gridworld, how far running back. That takes about three mother and brother were waiting could you have taken your career? for me on the field where she laid seconds, three-and-a-half with a I really believe I could have played my dad’s jersey where he would really good offensive line. And have been standing. I meet them and professionally, internationally if not you’re never stationary in the pocket ... always feeling pressure ... the sudden realization ... this is was the NBA. my goal growing up ... soaking up sliding ... finding space to move Basketball was my first college Kyle Field one last time with 90,000 while reading the play. In essence, scholarship offer. I played Houston in the house ... missing my father ... you departmentalize and eliminate Hoops (travel team AAU) with Nic Wise powerful impact. God blesses you (Kingwood and Arizona), Mike until you find one guy and deliver with gifts and I think I tried to use Singletary (Kingwood and Texas Tech), one ball. While someone is trying to Jai Lucas (Bellaire and Texas), Dariss that to the best of my ability. hit you. With a purpose.

Santee (Fort Bend Marshall and Nevada What’s the one thing about playing What’s the one memorable moment Las Vegas), Pierre Beasley (Westfield and Rice football). We competed all quarterback that even reasonably from playing at Humble that will over the United States and won. informed rational football observers last with you forever? will never fully understand?

My teammates. Guys I grew up with My freshman year (at A&M) I joined the team in January (2007) when It’s all processing information in starting with tee-ball at four-years they were ranked number nine in the the tightest time frame. And it’s the old. My childhood best friends. We country with (All-American) Acie most stimulating position in sports. all dreamed of playing for Humble Law. I was a big guard who could and we did at a really high level.

Physically, mentally, emotionally ... shoot with range, slash from the wing every single sensory is activated by Sharing all those times not just in

I chose football because I believed games but in practice and in the that position.

I had a better chance to be dominant locker room and traveling. Those are

in that sport. Not one single regret. I

still some of my closest friends.

And What’s the one thing about

made the right decision.

always will be. coaching in high school that even reasonably informed rational football observers will never fully understand?

On first sound. Break the huddle, the first look is to see how many safeties ... that reveals backend coverage and reduces scheme possibilities. Then, you check the body language of the corners and outside linebackers. Again, tells you what the defense won’t do.

Q

A

Q

A

Q

Q

A

A

Q A

It’s not about your knowledge of the game. It’s all about what you can get your players to execute consistently well. These are teenagers ... really at ground zero in terms of technique and broad knowledge ... their focus can drift.

You can construct some killer game plan and 90% won’t be used on Friday night. The key is to keep it simple. Coaching is not about what

Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018 - 65

IN MEMORIAM

Tom Horan ’62 - June 30, 2018

Kenneth Carbajal ’58, brother of Daniel ’50, cousin of Adolph Pfeffer ’49, uncle of Daniel McCairns ’85, grand uncle of William ’19 and Walker McCairns ’19, July 1, 2018 Hugo T. Engelhardt ’59, June 21, 2018 Anthony T. Falcone ’57, father of Sam ’82 and Joseph ’83, grandfather of Josh ’18, son of Joe, the original caretaker of the St. Thomas campus property at 4500 Memorial Dr., July 18, 2018 Nolan J. Ginn Jr., father of Ronald ’65, Bryan ’72, Robert ’84, May 25, 2018 David A. James ’74, December 22, 2017 Thomas C. Leppard ’57, April 19, 2018 Michael E. McCrory ’57, May 30, 2018 Roy J. Palermo ’52, August 7, 2017 Luke C. Rao ’71, April 25, 2018 Arthur Stolarz ’04, May 24, 2018 John G. Talley ’50, brother of Charles ’43 and father of John S. ’73, February 15, 2015 66 - Eagles’ Nest Fall 2018

It is with profound sadness that the extended Eagle community mourned the loss of Tom Horan ’62 who passed away in June at the age of 73.

A famed restaurateur and public relations maestro mastermind ... Houston’s Mr. Irish and long-time commander of the city’s St. Patrick’s Day ... committed father and husband ... dedicated ambassador for his beloved St. Thomas and advocate for Catholic education in Greater Houston ... fearless community leader and ferocious fundraiser for causes near and dear.

“St. Thomas has lost a legend and galvanizing torch-bearer,” said Vice-President for Advancement Mark deTranaltes ’83.

“We share a heartfelt gratitude for all that he contributed through his charmed life. His strong faith was the foundation for the impact he made on countless lives. Tom never stopped being a cherished mentor and inspiring presence.

We all grieve his passing and celebrate a remarkable life that was so well lived.”

A half ounce (or more) of Irish whiskey along with two ounces of orange juice.

As Horan proclaims with absolutely no hesitation ... It’s five o’clock somewhere!

And not just any ordinary or even legendary fine dram is deemed fit for Horan’s self-styled Irish Eye-Opener, but rather his personal Old Tom Horan Irish Whiskey, the label bestowed by longtime friend John Rydman, the owner of Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods.

For an Irish guy that’s better than being canonized a saint!

Horan is slowed a bit at age 70 by a series of heart attacks, including one while marching in Houston’s 2012 St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and losing his left leg to complications from diabetes. But his quicksilver spirit and infectious personality remain intact. And his deep Irish emotions swell and his eyes tear when casually asked about the impact attending St. Thomas has had on his life.

The prayers and thoughts of the Basilian Fathers remain with the Horan family, including his wife Jeani, sons Tom III ’85 and Gregory ’89 and and grandson Thomas IV ’17.

This article was originally published in 2016.

Months before his 50th wedding anniversary, weeks counting down to the hallowed St. Patrick’s Day, Houston’s Mr. Irish emeritus Tom Horan ’62 eagerly welcomes his guests from St. Thomas, and needs only a matter of minutes to offer a mid-morning beverage.

Long ago I came to appreciate my education ... Teach Me Goodness, Discipline and Knowledge ... the Basilian credo.

I learned to treat people the way I wanted to be treated ... goodness.

Discipline ... know your limits and boundaries.

= Knowledge ... is not always pure academics but the ability to think for yourself ... to determine from right and wrong. I never felt as if I had to be the smartest guy in the room. And that was from my experience at St. Thomas ... and the University of St. Thomas. I have so much respect for the Basilians for what they taught me.

Horan met his wife Jeani at UST and married at age 21. Sons Tom III ’85 and Gregory ’89, followed by grandson Thomas IV ’17, continued the family’s strong Eagle legacy along with Tom’s brothers George ’64, Timothy ’73 and John ’71.

I never demanded A’s in the classroom... just that the kids do their best. At one time Gregory was determined to underachieve his way into public school. During a pointed parent-teacher conference he was told ... F’s at Lamar and Lee High School are free ... here they cost $10,000 ... get off your butt and start working.

Horan’s father hailed from Stamford, Connecticut, his mother Mount Vernon, New York. They stopped in Houston on their way to pave a bright future in California and never left. Tom was born at St. Joseph’s Hospital and grew up in the shadows of the same River Oaks address he and Jeani have lived for nearly half a century.

Stories of deceased Tom Senior prompt the city’s patron to all that is Green and White and Orange to beckon Jeani with an all too familiar request, cue and play a particular CD track from The Irish Tenors, and for the second time, Horan is spiked with sentiment as the classic Irish ballad “The Old Man” reverberates throughout his living room, one chorus demanding accompaniment.

I never will forget him For he made me what I am Though he may be gone Memories linger on And I miss him, the old man Horan began making his professional mark in men’s retail, first Foley Brothers and later Walter Pye. He then opened Birraporetti’s restaurant in River Oaks, a nod to an Italian mother and Irish father.

Eventually, Horan found his fastball in public relations, pounding the strike zone

Please let the Alumni Office know if an alumnus has passed away.

Call 713-864-6348 x150, fax 713-864-6402, or email alumni@sths.org.

for a wide array of clients such as Blackeyed Pea and Del Frisco’s restaurants, Irish Airlines, Absolut Vodka and (naturally) Jameson Irish Whiskey.

But there was no better glove-like fit than pitching in the 1980s for the city’s iconic Shamrock Hotel which was opened in 1949 by brash oil giant Glenn McCarthy - and shut down and leveled in 1987 after the Texas Medical Center purchased the property.

The last St. Patrick’s Day there was an unbelievable event. Huge turnout. Mr. McCarthy was honored with a gathering in the Emerald Room ... and another 2,000 patrons in the Grand Ballroom.

At 12 noon I had four security officers escort Glen to meet the crowd. Twentyeight piece bagpipe band bellowing.

He reaches the stage. I said let’s have a round of applause for our founder.

Enormous ovation. I hand him the microphone. They turn quiet. He says four words ... screw the Medical Center ... and walks off. The room absolutely roared.

Brilliant.

The initial high-gloss rating and reviews gave founder Dale Wamstad instant credibility and launched a profitable relationship with customers and Horan that stood the test of time.

A few years ago Gene called me and said come up to Dallas. He hands me a sizable check. Good number. Said that’s for helping me become so successful. I said that’s damn nice. Next morning I’m reading the Wall Street Journal and Dale is selling the restaurant for $27 million.

Called him right away and say you cheap (blank), is that the biggest check you can write!

Horan is renowned for a signature sartorial splendor and a shoe collection that would rival Imelda Marcos, all often on colorful display when ushering Sunday morning Mass at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. He’s equally well known as a fearless community leader and ferocious fundraiser for causes near and dear.

No Horan campaign hammered harder and louder than his famed Knife & Fork Club’s America’s Top 10 Steakhouses (now Tom Horan’s Top 10 Club).

In the late 1980s, Horan was searching for a creative strategy to separate the newly formed Del Frisco’s brand from national franchises invading the Dallas market.

Horan conceived a top-10 ranking of acclaimed gastronomic sensations setting the standard for all that is magnificently aged, marbleized and two-finger-thick, the glorious charred, sliced thick and served rare.

I’ve stopped wondering what I’m going to do when I grow up. No more mountains to climb. Throughout it all ... I never looked at anything I did as if it were a job ... always something I wanted to do. I loved what I did. Never an easy road but always the love of my life ... along with Jeani.

The recognitions were released through the calendar year and appeared prominently And I was really good. in airline in-flight magazines where the likes of Peter Luger in Brooklyn, Chicago A slight pause for the next swallow. One Chop House, Seattle’s Metropolitan Grill, Irish Eye-Opener down.

Manny’s in Minneapolis were routine all Time for another! the rave, along with Del Frisco’s Double Eagle in Dallas.

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TEACH ME

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DISCIPLINE

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NOVEMBER 3, 2018 Celebrating and Honoring Dona and Al Clay ’61 2018 EVENT CHAIRS

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