Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

Kevin Plank ’90 M akes Tr ansfor m ational Gift St. John’s M aster Plan: A Vision for the Future

Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

3 Life at St. John’s 15 St. John’s Master Plan 22 Sports at St. John’s 31 Alumni Action 35 Cadet Corps Centennial 41 Photo Gallery 48 Class Notes 52 Condolences

Photo by Scott Douglass, SJC Faculty

From the President

Scarlet & Grey SPR I NG 2016

St. John’s College High School President

Jeffrey Mancabelli Principal

Bro. Michael Andrejko, FSC Vice President for Institutional Advancement

Michael Esten Director of Development

Mark Gibbs ’96 Director of Communications

Kathy Howe Director of Annual Giving

Heather Long Associate Director of Development

Tom Veith Database Manager

Lori Martin Editor

Kathy Howe Contributor Patrick Haley Photography

Lawrence French Patrick Haley Kathy Howe Art Director

Frank Sheehan St. John’s College High School 2607 Military Road, NW Chevy Chase, DC 20015 www.stjohnschs.org Alumni and Development Office 202.364.0229 | F: 202.363.5091 khowe@stjohnschs.org

Dear St. John’s Community, “Celebrating the past and accelerating into the future.”

This phrase encapsulates the 2015-2016 academic year at St. John’s. Our year began with the 100-year-anniversary celebration of the Cadet Corps, an event four years in the making that brought together more than 1,000 members of the St. John’s community. It was the largest event in the school’s history. As so many gathered to celebrate the traditions and values of the Christian Brothers and the Cadet Corps, we also took the opportunity to look boldly into the future.

Unveiled that evening was the 20-year vision for St. John’s, accompanied by the announcement of a $16 million gift from Kevin Plank ’90. His gift to support academics, athletics, tuition assistance and the Entrepreneurial Center helps to secure the continued growth of the SJC community and serves as an example of the vision to design not only the facilities our students require, but also the forward-thinking curriculum to secure their success in college and in life.

One aspect of the master plan that launched this year is the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership, a one-of-kind, four-year curriculum at the high school level.

Built upon the success of our alumni and the core St. John’s values of faith, leadership and service, our students have the opportunity to explore innovation as a necessary mindset for 21st century thinking.

The overwhelmingly positive response to our plan for the future is evident from the 1,100 applicants we received for the 275 spaces in the Class of 2020. Moreover, this is the largest number of applications and the most competitive applicant pool to date. It is only fitting that the Class of 2020 joins us in the year that we announced our vision for the future.

Our success as a school is directly related to the faculty, alumni, parents and students who believe in the Catholic, Lasallian mission and support it with their time, talent and treasure. I am forever grateful to all of you.

In closing, I would like to acknowledge two of these individuals who have shared their time and talent with St. John’s. After six years of leadership as the school’s principal, Bro. Michael Andrejko will be moving on from St. John’s at the end of the year. His steadfast, Lasallian-centered approach to nurturing all aspects of the students entrusted to his care has played an important role in the tremendous growth in the school’s academic, spiritual and athletic programs. Math teacher and former department chair Sara Rodgers will retire at the end of the year after 37 years of faithful dedication to the SJC community. She has been a wonderful presence all these years and has superbly prepared our students to succeed at the collegiate level. She has cared deeply for the students entrusted to her care. I want to thank both Bro. Mike and Sara for their service, leadership and fidelity to the mission of St. John’s.

I wish you all a wonderful summer!

Sincerely,

Mr. Jeffrey W. Mancabelli President

Life at St. John’s

St. John’s Names New Principal On Feb. 5, St. John’s announced the appointment of Christopher Themistos as the school’s next principal.

His appointment came after an extensive review process by the St. John’s Search Committee, culminating in a unanimous recommendation by the Board of Trustees and approval from Bro. Dennis Malloy, FSC, Provincial of the District of Eastern North America.

In October, Bro. Michael Andrejko, FSC, announced his decision to resign as St. John’s principal at the end of the 20152016 school year. He has held that role for the last six years, and he will conclude his second term at the school in June.

“Bro. Mike has faithfully served the St. John’s community in the spirit of St. John Baptist de La Salle, and he will be missed deeply,” said President Jeff Mancabelli.

Themistos joined St. John’s faculty in 2001 as a member of the Social Studies Department, and during his tenure, he developed curricula for three courses. He also taught in the English Department for two years. In addition to teaching each year, he has served as St. John’s director of admissions and academic dean. As academic dean, he led the internal coordination of the school’s successful Middle States re-accreditation.

Since 2013, he has served as assistant principal for academic affairs. In this role, Themistos led the school’s transition to a 1:1 educational technology curriculum and the launch of the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership. As one of the architects and chief administrators of the 1:1 iPad initiative, he played an integral role in designing many program elements and continues to spearhead the development of practical and theoretical goals to improve the school’s use of instructional technology. Furthermore, he serves as advisor to St. John’s president and the director of the new Entrepreneurial Center, helping to shape the program’s direction and curriculum.

“I have a deep respect for his character and integrity, and I look forward to his expert leadership and collaboration in

fulfilling the vision of the school,” Mancabelli said.

Themistos earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a concentration in education from the College of the Holy Cross, and he earned a master’s degree in educational policy and leadership from the University of Maryland, College Park. He is a graduate of the Lasallian Leadership Institute and recipient of the Lasallian Educator of the Year Award. His professional memberships include the National Association of College Admissions Counselors, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and the International Association of Technology and Education.

As a long-time member of the St. John’s community, Themistos has a deep appreciation for the Catholic, Lasallian charism that serves as the institution’s foundation and the pillars that support the school’s mission. He is eager to continue serving the St. John’s community as principal.

“It has been a privilege, and one of the true blessings of my life, to work on behalf of St. John’s students, families and faculty for the past 15 years,” Themistos said. “As principal, I will promote the mission and values of the Brothers of the

Christian Schools and ensure that every student in our care continues to receive the countless gifts that come from a Catholic, Lasallian education.”

As principal, I will promote the mission and values of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and ensure that every student in our care continues to receive the countless gifts that come from a Catholic, Lasallian education.”

—Christopher Themistos

St. John’s College High School 3

Life at St. John’s

St. John’s New Trustees This fall, St. John’s Board of Trustees welcomed four new members: Peter Black ’68, Ron Serabian ’69, Elizabeth Cranston and Riaz Latifullah ’74.

Peter Black ’68 is currently the regional president of M&T Bank for the greater Washington region. He is responsible for all commercial banking activities, including commercial real estate, middle market banking, healthcare and not-for-profit banking. Black’s area of responsibility includes Washington, DC; Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland; and the commonwealth of Virginia. In addition to his work with M&T, Black also sits on the board of directors for the Greater Washington Board of Trade, Junior Achievement of the National Capital Area and The Yellow Ribbon Fund. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from the College of the Holy Cross and an MBA in finance and investments from The George Washington University.

Ron Serabian ’69 is the president and owner of Thornton Service, a 4 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

leading provider of commercial HVAC service solutions to organizations in the Washington metropolitan area. He has served as owner and/or general manager of the company since 1987. He is responsible for business development and maintaining customer relationships with Thornton’s large facility accounts. Serabian previously spent 10 years as director of the allied products division for Carrier Corporation. He is an active member of the committee for St. John’s Doc Scalessa Golf Tournament, an annual event that raises funds for the school’s Dr. C. Francis Scalessa Scholarship.

Elizabeth Cranston is the chief executive officer of CANA Advisors, a consulting firm based in northern Virginia. CANA provides integrated logistics, operations analyses, distribution planning and supply chain management solutions to both commercial and government clients across the United States. Cranston is a licensed attorney and previously served as a battalion logistics officer in the U.S. Marine Corps. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Georgetown

From left: Peter Black ’68, Ron Serabian ’69, Elizabeth Cranston and Riaz Latifullah ’74

University and studied law at the Lewis and Clark Law School. In addition to her consulting work, Cranston also works with the Fairfax Bar Association’s Law-Related Education Committee, Paralyzed Veterans of America and Women in Defense.

Riaz Latifullah ’74 is currently the chief financial officer for KeyStone Solutions, where he is responsible for directing and overseeing all of the organization’s financial and accounting activities. He previously served as vice president of financial management, senior director of strategic markets and director of brand operations for AARP. Latifullah earned his bachelor’s degree from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and earned master’s degrees from both the University of Michigan and Stanford University. He served as the 2014-2015 president of the Men of St. John’s and is the parent of three St. John’s students – Sepp ’14, Nicole ’18 and Rory ’18.

Life at St. John’s

Cadets Welcome the Pope to DC On Sept. 23, seven St. John’s students had the opportunity to be part of the crowd that greeted Pope Francis at the White House during his first visit to Washington, DC. Elon Epps ’16, Luke Wardour ’16, Alexa Mancabelli ’19, Viola Lohsen ’17, Ronald Hernandez ’18, Paolo Orosa ’19, Nick Mancabelli ’17 and Tom Sipowicz, St. John’s director of mission integration, left the school at 6:00 a.m. to navigate the city’s many road closures and make sure they were in place with time to spare. The pope’s Fiat motorcade passed by their position on the White House’s South Lawn as it transported Pope Francis to the stage, where he was greeted by President Barack Obama.

The St. John’s contingent had a good view of the proceedings on the Jumbotron and enjoyed experiencing this special event with the greater Washington, DC, Catholic community.

“It was a unique experience being with thousands of fellow Catholics at

the White House,” Sipowicz said. “We definitely had an experience that made us proud to be Catholics in America.”

“There was something in the air that day,” Epps shared. “Everybody seemed so peaceful and happy, and so excited just to get the smallest glimpse of Pope Francis.”

From left: Elon Epps ’16, Viola Lohsen ’17, Nick Mancabelli ’17, Ronald Hernandez ’18, Luke Wardour ’16, Alexa Mancabelli ’19 and Paolo Orosa ’19 were part of the crowd that greeted Pope Francis at the White House.

On Feb. 3, St. John’s Spanish Honor Society welcomed 86 new senior, junior and sophomore members (left). Then on March 1, St. John's French Honor Society added 12 new members. ¡Felicidades! Félicitations!

St. John’s College High School 5

Life at St. John’s

Celebrating Academics On Sept. 23, the SJC community gathered to honor its teachers and students at the annual Academic Convocation.

Each fall, St. John’s recognizes those students who produced outstanding work during the previous school year. For the 2014-2015 year, 278 sophomores, juniors and seniors earned Certificates of Achievement with Distinction for receiving a 3.6 GPA with no grade lower than a B. Of that group, 66 students also received the San Miguel Febres Cordero Award for earning straight A’s. St. John’s academic departments also presented individual awards to outstanding students in the classes of 2016, 2017 and 2018 for their efforts last year.

Four special student awards are presented at Academic Convocation each year: Kelli Brookshire ’16 received the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Award, Tommy Gillespie ’16 received the Dartmouth Book Award, Alia Nahra ’16 received the Wellesley Book Award and Brian Valcarcel ’16 received the George Washington University Medal.

Three teachers were also recognized at this event. St. John’s faculty chose math teacher Kwame Darko and choral mu-

Top: Four students received special awards at Academic Convocation: Kelli Brookshire ’16, Tommy Gillespie ’16, Alia Nahra ’16 and Brian Valcarcel ’16.

Vocal music director Kate Fernandez (left) and math teacher Kwame Darko (right) were this year’s recipients of the Gasser Award. Math teacher Sara Rodgers (center) received the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award.

sic teacher Kate Fernandez as this year’s recipients of the Gasser Award, which is presented to two teachers who serve as Christian role models for the students and support the school’s philosophy and objectives. Math teacher Sara Rodgers received the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award, which is presented annually to a teacher who embodies the Lasallian ideals.

St. John’s Archbishop Hannan Chapter of the National Honor Society welcomed eight seniors and 107 juniors to its ranks at Academic Convocation.

Faculty members Selma Solera ’06, Irene Murphy, Allison Downey and Jay Egan gave remarks on the four pillars of the society: leadership, scholarship, service and character.

Honoring the Fallen

St. John’s students, faculty, staff and parents then walked to the grave of the McGovern Brothers to pay their respects. The McGovern Brothers are St. John’s legends. First Lieutenant Robert McGovern ’46 and Second Lieutenant Jerome McGovern ’48 both joined the U.S. Army after graduation and fought in the Korean War. They were killed in 1951 within 11 days of each other. Both were highly decorated for bravery; Robert received the Medal of Honor and Jerome received the Silver Star.

After laying another wreath at their grave, Pennanen spoke of the bravery and honor the brothers demonstrated in their lives. The ceremony was made even more special by the presence of Charles McGovern, brother of Robert and Jerome.

On Nov. 4, members of St. John’s Cadet Corps participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

In honor of this year’s Cadet Corps Centennial, St. John’s was invited to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.

Cadet Colonel Genevieve Pennanen ’16 and Command Sergeant Major Charles Lewin-Smith ’16 had the honor of laying the wreath. They were joined by President Jeff Mancabelli and Bro. Michael Andrejko, St. John’s principal. In addition, 40 student members of the Cadet Corps traveled to the cemetery to attend the ceremony. The visit was coordinated by Tim Frank ’94, a historian at Arlington National Cemetery.

6 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

ST. JOHN’S THEATRE DECEMBER 3–5, 2015

Life at St. John’s

St. John’s New Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership In the fall of 2015, St. John’s launched the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership (ECIL). This cross-curricular program supports St. John’s mission to prepare young women and men for lives of leadership, achievement and community service. The main goal of innovation is to improve the global human condition, and graduates from this program will make a difference in the world by combining their innovative spirit with the values of compassion, personal responsibility and service to others.

This four-year program will provide students with both hands-on and virtual learning experiences. They will learn from successful innovators in diverse fields and use the knowledge and experience gained through their coursework to create solutions to real-world challenges. The curriculum is designed so that all students have the opportunity to participate; as students matriculate, they will have the option to delve deeper into specific topics or choose additional experiences.

The ECIL was developed with input from colleges and universities, such as Notre Dame, Villanova and Maryland, business leaders and St. John’s alumni, faculty and administration. Joe Casamento, director of the Entrepreneurial Center, joined St. John’s faculty in January 2015; he previously spent 12 years as the director of the leadership non-profit L.E.A.D. USA. “We see students working hard to get to the top of the ladder, but then realizing the ladder is up against the wrong wall. Success without fulfillment is failure. At St. John’s, we think differently. We want our students to create different pathways for themselves,” Casamento said. “This program will give students the courage to lead, to live their values with honesty and integrity and to be unafraid to follow their own path.”

The 2015-2016 school year has served as a developmental year for the program. ECIL courses take place outside the classroom and will be available to all St. John’s students. This 8 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

year, freshmen and sophomores have had the opportunity to participate in at least one course through the Entrepreneurial Center.

On Nov. 5, St. John’s officially launched the ECIL with a “Day of Leadership” for freshmen off campus at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center in Chevy Chase.

Leading others begins with leadership of self, and so the freshman experience focuses on leadership. To that end, this workshop featured a team of four nationally recognized experts in leadership education.

Dr. Jeffery Mangram is an assistant professor at Syracuse University, an educator at Manlius Pebble Hill School and a successful motivational and inspirational speaker. Steve Shenbaum is the founder and president of game on nation, a communication, leadership, teambuilding and media training firm. Gayle Allen is the chief learning officer and director of BrightBytes Lab, the founder of McCord Grauer Center for Excellence in Teaching and the former associate head of two independent schools.

Mike Erwin is the chief executive officer of the Quiet Leadership Institute and the founder and chairman of the board for Team Red, White and Blue. These speakers worked with St. John’s freshmen on different aspects of leadership: knowing your leadership values, introverted leaders vs. extroverted leaders, finding your leadership style and effective communication methods.

In November, St. John’s launched the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership with a “Day of Leadership” for freshmen. The workshop was led by (from left) Dr. Jeffery Mangram, Mike Erwin, Joe Casamento, Gayle Allen and Steve Shenbaum.

Several St. John’s upperclassmen joined a dozen faculty and staff in facilitating the workshop. Although these juniors and seniors will not have the opportunity to participate fully in the program, they recognize the value it will provide for the classes that come after them. “I was impressed by the group of speakers assembled from all over the country – it was kind of a ‘super team’ of experts,” said JP Harper ’16. “I really wish I’d been a part of this program as a freshman, because it would have been a great way to start learning more about being a leader and growing as a person.”

On Feb. 9, the ECIL continued its focus on leadership by inviting Chris Stevens ’70 back to St. John’s to speak to freshmen about leadership and entrepreneurialism.

Stevens has had a wide range of professional experience, including his key role as one of the “core four” who developed and launched Keurig in 1998. He is currently a full-time instructor at Notre Dame’s Melendez School of Business and the founder of CS74 Ventures, an LLC for 18 different companies Stevens owns or has invested in.

Life at St. John’s

Stevens’ remarks focused on leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation. He emphasized the importance of setting goals and then working hard to achieve them.

Stevens said great leaders inspire others to follow their vision, and he listed trust, good character, diversity, discipline and philanthropy as the characteristics of a good leader – lessons he said he began learning at St. John’s. To read more about Stevens’ presentation, read the article on page 31.

On March 4-5, sophomores, juniors and seniors had the opportunity to attend The Startup Experience workshop sponsored by the ECIL. The two-day, overnight workshop was led by Henrik Scheel, founder and CEO of The Startup Experience, an entrepreneurial training firm based in San Francisco, CA. This session was designed to serve as a microcosm of the real-world entrepreneurial experience, taking students through the process from problem identification through the business pitch. Students were randomly divided into groups based on their self-identification as a “hacker,” “hustler” or “artist” personality type and assigned a dedicated faculty or volunteer mentor.

Each startup team then worked together to define a specific user need, research that need and its relevant technologies and conceptualize a creative solution using design thinking. Students validated their business model by testing their ideas on real potential users to gain market insights.

The teams then built a prototype, including the creation of a website with an introductory video and a payment-processing module to allow them to take pre-orders.

Finally, the teams created a professional presentation to pitch their idea to a jury of professionals. The jury included Scheel and volunteers John Murphy, Cathy House (P’16, P’17), Jim Stockmal (P’18) and Andreas Kristinus (P’18).

The project yielded several interesting and viable business options – in fact, one team had 700 website hits and a potential investor within the first two hours their site was live! The jury chose “Freshman Zero” as the winning project, a smartphone application that helps eliminate the “freshman 15” through healthy meal planning services, in-

cluding the delivery of affordable, nutritious snack packs and hunger-reducing chewing gum. The second-place team pitched “Fork It,” a Bluetooth-enabled smart fork with built-in sensors to detect and warn the eater of the eight most common food allergens.

Scheel commented that some of the St. John’s student teams produced better work than college students he’s worked with on similar projects.

On April 5, St. John’s welcomed Kevin Haley, president of product and innovation at Under Armour, as the final speaker for the Entrepreneurial Center’s inaugural freshman year of leadership.

Haley is responsible for driving the innovation process at Under Armour, as well as for overseeing the creation of cuttingedge products. He oversees the state-of-theart Innovation Lab and works in tandem with the chief merchandising officer to integrate the departments of Design and Innovation. Prior to his current role, Haley served as the senior vice president of consumer insights and the senior vice president of sports marketing. He is also credited with developing Under Armour’s legal department as the company’s first general counsel.

He graduated from Princeton University with honors and received his law degree from the University of Virginia.

Haley’s presentation helped close out the leadership piece of the freshman ECIL curriculum and transition to the sophomore curriculum, which focuses on innovation. He spoke to St. John’s freshmen about the role of innovation in Under Armour’s success and shared with them some concrete examples of new products and marketing decisions the company made internally that helped drive their model forward. However, he also emphasized that everyone defines success in their own

The concept of social entrepreneurship asks students to think about the nine major challenges facing the world – global health, water, energy, environment, food, education, security and poverty – and challenges students to develop creative solutions.

way – beyond just career success, each of them must also decide what success means to them personally.

“Students at SJC have a unique and timely opportunity to benefit from their time at SJC in general and their time in the Entrepreneurial Center specifically, because the pace of change all over the world is accelerating, and the change is no longer coming from just the usual suspects (Silicon Valley, etc.),” Haley said. “The world is flattening and access to capital is becoming more democratic, so a student at SJC today could not only have the next great idea, they could fund it, build it and sell it globally before they graduate.”

With the first year complete, the Entrepreneurial Center plans to expand its curriculum for the 2016-2017 year to allow even more students to participate. The Class of 2019 will continue on their path, moving to a focus on innovation, while the new Class of 2020 will begin their own year of leadership this fall.

As seniors, these students will have the opportunity to apply for the Senior Capstone Seminar, which is designed to advance each student’s entrepreneurial skills in an environment of healthy competition.

Coursework and unique field experiences will expose them to real-life innovation, and they will have opportunities to work with successful entrepreneurs. At the end of their senior year, each student will present a final project to a panel of faculty and outside experts in targeted fields.

St. John’s College High School 9

Life at St. John’s

Farewell, Dear Friends This June, the St. John’s community will say goodbye to two faculty members who have made a special impact on the school: Bro. Michael Andrejko, FSC, and Sara Rodgers.

Here we look back at the time these educators spent at St. John’s and wish them well as they move on to the next phase of their lives.

Bro. Michael Andrejko Principal 2010-2016; Trustee 2004-2010; Teacher 1996-2000

Bro. Michael Andrejko has devoted 16 of his 28 years as a Christian Brother to St. John’s College High School.

In June, he will step down as St. John’s principal to take a yearlong sabbatical that will allow him to relax, recharge and reconnect with the Brothers’ global mission.

He first came to SJC as a faculty member in 1996, teaching business and religion and moderating the Student Council. Bro. Mike left in 2000 to become assistant principal for academic affairs at West Catholic Pre-

paratory High School in Philadelphia, but he stayed connected to St. John’s as a member of the board of trustees from 2004-2010.

In 2010, Jeff Mancabelli, who had just been named as the school’s first lay president, asked Bro. Mike to take on the role of principal and join him in providing strong Lasallian leadership at St. John’s. With the approval of the Provincial, Bro. Mike accepted the position. Since he’d been here before, he said he was excited to see for himself how the school had grown. He said he’s proud of all St. John’s has accomplished, both in the last six years and since his first term in the 1990s.

“I’ve seen the school grow over the last 20 years into a robust, thriving institution deeply committed to the Lasallian mission,” Bro. Mike said. “It really makes me proud to see the commitment of the faculty to the Lasallian mission.”

I’ve seen the school grow over the last 20 years into a robust, thriving institution deeply committed to the Lasallian mission.”

—Bro. Michael Andrejko, FSC

As principal, Bro. Mike has been a strong presence in the lives of the students, truly embodying the Lasallian tenet to nurture the whole student. He has had the opportunity to work alongside these young men and women in many different arenas: as the students he taught in his algebra and morality classes, the athletes he

10 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

traveled with to out-of-state tournaments, the Cadet Corps members he supported at JROTC summer camp and the volunteers he accompanied on service trips to Appalachia, Camden and Nicaragua.

“We’re going to miss Bro. Mike and his constant connection with so many different groups of students, as well as the many individuals he reached out to support, whether they were in need of affirmation or going through something difficult,” said Chris Themistos, assistant principal of academic affairs.

“His egalitarian recognition of how important it is that students feel they are doing good work, that they are doing God’s work, and that they are becoming stronger individuals – I think that’s what he does best.”

“He calls the students to be the best they can be. He challenges them to be their best, rather than simply telling them when they’re not,” said Sr. Mary Catherine Mindling, RSM, chair of the Modern and Classical Languages Department. “Bro. Mike has a strong Lasallian foundation, and I think he brought La Salle’s dedication to education to his work at St. John’s.”

Bro. Mike also worked closely with the greater St. John’s community – he served as the moderator of the Mothers’ Club and as a non-voting member of the Board of Trustees for the last six years.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, faculty and staff, I want to thank Bro. Mike for his leadership and fidelity to the mission of St. John’s.

His steadfast, Lasallian-centered approach to nurturing all aspects of the students entrusted to his care is the outward expression of an inner faith devoted to God and the charism of his vocation,” Mancabelli said. “I wish him all the best for his future, and I am grateful for his friendship.”

After six years in St. John’s admin-

Life at St. John’s

As principal, Bro. Michael Andrejko worked with many different student teams and organizations throughout the year, from the Student Government Association to the girls’ basketball team and Lasallian Youth Club.

istration, and 26 years as a teacher and administrator, Bro. Mike is ready to take a breath and refocus before beginning his next challenge. He will begin his yearlong sabbatical this fall at the Christian Brothers’ novitiate in Chicago’s Hyde Park-Kenwood neighborhood.

The novitiate is located near Catholic Theological Union, and Bro. Mike said he plans to audit spirituality courses there during the fall semester. Primarily, he said he plans to decompress, reflect and enjoy the peace and quiet.

However, Bro. Mike said he doesn’t feel he can spend an entire year decompressing. To that end, he will travel to the Holy Land to work with his fellow Brothers at Bethlehem University during the spring semester of 2017. Although he’s not yet sure what role he’ll play there, he’s looking forward to immersing himself in another culture and in the Brothers’

work outside the United States. “I’ve never been on the mission out of the country on a permanent basis, and I think that’s an important part of our vocation,” Bro. Mike said. “I have the freedom to do that – not just the obligation, but also the interest.”

After his sabbatical concludes next summer, the possibilities are wide open for Bro. Mike’s next mission – he could find himself in any one of the 77 countries that currently have Christian Brothers schools. One day, he may even find himself back here at St. John’s for a third term.

“I’m at a time in my life when it’s time to take a breath. I’ll be sad to leave St. John’s, but I know it is in good hands with its leadership, with the teachers here and the students here,” Bro. Mike said. “St. John’s is a great place, and it does hold a special place in my heart.”

She drives 50 miles each way from Nokesville, VA, to get to school, and she has “worn out” nine cars during her tenure here. To her, the drive and the long hours are worth it for the joy she receives from teaching algebra to her students.

Teaching algebra is the only job Rodgers ever wanted – in fact, she taught her first algebra class as a freshman at Davis & Elkins College, where she also tutored incoming freshmen. Growing up in Parkersburg, WV, Rodgers said she wasn’t an honor student. “I like to work with the freshmen at St. John’s to build a strong mathematical foundation. I know their strengths and their weaknesses,” Rodgers said.

Rodgers began her career at an elementary school in West Virginia, teaching math to students in grades three through six. She met and married Mike Rodgers, who grew up in the northern Virginia area, and they decided to relocate in 1979. Rodgers saw an ad in the paper seeking a math teacher at St. John’s, and the rest is history.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 12

Sara Rodgers Teacher 1979-2016; Department Chair

For the past 37 years, math teacher Sara Rodgers has arrived at St. John’s at 6:00 a.m. almost every day.

St. John’s College High School 11

Life at St. John’s

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 As a teacher, Rodgers is known for being tough but fair. She has high expectations of her students and expects them to work hard. She said it is important to her that her students learn to do their work on their own, without “modern crutches” – that way, they know they have a solid mathematical foundation to build upon.

“You’ve got to challenge them,” Rodgers said. “You have to keep your standards just high enough that they can reach them if they work hard.”

“She is structured, and the students need that,” said Mike Sheehy, chair of the Math Department.

“They know she’s no-nonsense, and they know they can expect a wellthought-out lesson from someone who is very knowledgeable. The students appreciate that.”

However, she is also always available to help struggling students who seek her assistance – she provides tutoring every morning before school and during homeroom.

“She knows how to blend tough love with compassion; when to be strict and when to relax,” said Ray Nighan, English teacher. “I think her gift as a teacher is to assure the students that she cares about them as individuals; not just making them learn math equations, but seeing them as individuals whom she really wants to help. In achieving her goals, she maintains standards in her classroom that the students respect, but in a compassionate and caring way.”

In addition to teaching, Rodgers has played several other important roles in the St. John’s community.

For 20 years, she served as chair of the Math Department, and for many years she organized the faculty and staff-wide Secret Santa exchange.

Rodgers is also a longtime member of the Student Assistance Com-

12 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

mittee, an organization that raises money from the faculty to support students in need. The money provides everything from family assistance to textbooks to uniforms – it’s another way for the faculty to show their support for St. John’s students.

“She truly is dedicated to the students. She’s a great teacher, and the students know she really cares about them,” said Bro. Michael Andrejko, principal.

At her interview in 1979, Bro. David Menegay, then chair of the Math Department, asked Rodgers how long she planned to stay at St. John’s. Her answer? “As long as you want me.”

And even though St. John’s students, faculty and parents still want her to stay, the time has come for her to move on. She and Mike plan to leave the northern Virginia area and move to Texas to be near her family.

However, she said she will truly miss teaching and especially her students here at St. John’s. “The students are what keep me young. I am always trying to outsmart the students, and they are always challenging me,”

During Sara Rodgers’ time as chair, the Math Department was known for its elaborate group Halloween costumes. In 2006, they dressed as a deck of playing cards.

Rodgers said. “And teaching is fun – especially math.”

The St. John’s community will miss Rodgers as well – but a small piece of her will remain present in the dayto-day life of the school. This year, the Math Department’s office will be dedicated as the Sara Lynne Rodgers Math Department Office in honor of her many years of service and dedication to St. John’s and its students.

“Sara has dedicated an entire career to the students of St. John’s,” said Jeff Mancabelli, St. John’s president. “During my interview in 1999, I asked Sara why she stayed at SJC, which at that time was her 20th anniversary. She told me that once I got to know the students, I would understand. Truer words have never been spoken. The community of St. John’s is a unique and special one, and part of the reason it is so special is because of the love and affection Sara has given over the last 37 years.”

Life at St. John’s

Bro. Mark Brown Celebrates 25 Years of Christian Brotherhood For Bro. Mark Brown, FSC, becoming a Christian Brother was an evolution – an easy journey on which each step flowed naturally to the next. Growing up in Baltimore, MD, he attended Calvert Hall College High School, an all-boys Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition. After working with the Christian Brothers for four years, he first felt a call to explore the vocation when a vocation director spoke to his senior class. “There was an invitation that I accepted, and I felt comfortable doing that.”

He went on to attend Towson State University, but he also joined the Christian Brothers’ Aspirancy Program. The program allowed young men who were interested in the order to keep in contact with Brothers and learn more about the vocation. After earning his bachelor’s degree in economics in 1990, Bro. Mark made the decision to join the Christian Brothers. He began a two-year regional Postulancy at Jeremy House in Philadelphia, PA, the first stage of Initial Formation on the journey to becoming a Brother.

During his Postulancy, Bro. Mark and two other young men studied religion, theology and education and taught parttime at La Salle College High School.

Although being in the classroom for the first time had its challenges, Bro. Mark knew that this was the right path for him.

“It simply felt comfortable. I felt at ease.

It’s challenging and difficult, teaching for the first time, but even through those new teacher challenges, it still felt good and comfortable. I was willing to face the challenges and difficult times to keep moving forward.”

After his time at Jeremy House, Bro. Mark moved into the Brothers’ Formation Program. He taught history and religion for three years at Archbishop John Carroll High School in Radnor, PA. Bro. Mark also began working with students in Carroll’s music program – as a drummer throughout high school and college, Bro. Mark said he was happy to find a way to

blend his love for music with his calling to teach.

The next step was a yearlong Novitiate program in Skaneateles, NY. During this part of the formation process, potential Brothers learn more about the order and vocation, participate in volunteer work and take time for prayer and reflection in order to decide if this path is right for them. For Bro. Mark, the answer was simple: “I just kept saying yes to the invitation, and I always felt comfortable taking the next step.”

After completing his Novitiate, Bro. Mark taught and worked with the band program for three years at Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, PA. He then transferred to West Catholic High School in Philadelphia, where he taught and worked with the school’s jazz program for six years. While at West Catholic, Bro. Mark hit his 10-year mark with the Christian Brothers and took his final vows. “In some ways, it was a long process, but in other ways, when you first move in and start teaching, as far as the kids are concerned you’re a Brother.”

Bro. Mark came to St. John’s in 2005, and here he has continued to blend his love for teaching with his passion for music. He teaches scripture and U.S. history, but he also works with the Regimental Band’s drumline and the Jazz Ensemble and teaches an upper-level elective course,

Bro. Mark Brown and the 2015-2016 Regimental Band drumline.

History of American Music. “It’s good to have a musical outlet and to see the kids in a different light. I like working with them on something that’s not graded and helping improve their musicianship.”

During his time as a teacher, Bro. Mark has continued his own education, earning master’s degrees from La Salle University and Johns Hopkins University.

In the future, he sees himself remaining in the classroom – it’s where he continues to feel most comfortable. “Being with the students in the classroom, working with them, helping them grow and develop and understand things – that’s the best and easiest part of the day.”

On Sept. 11, Bro. Mark celebrated his silver jubilee by renewing his vows at St. John’s opening school Mass. Appropriately for Bro. Mark, he went right back to teaching after Mass. “It’s a milestone, a particular part of the journey, but it’s also just another day in the classroom.”

As he continues his journey as a Christian Brother, Bro. Mark said he’s glad he said “yes” to that invitation 25 years ago.

“Like anything, some days are better than others. That’s just life. But overall, there are far more good days than bad days, and far more good experiences than bad.

This is where I feel most comfortable and where I know I can the most good.”

St. John’s College High School 13

Life at St. John’s

day of kayaking, hiking and relaxing on the beach. That evening, the musicians attended an awards ceremony to receive their rankings: • Wind Ensemble – Superior Rating • String Ensemble – Excellent Rating • Vocal Resonance – Superior Rating • Competition Jazz Ensemble – Superior Rating The following students also received awards for outstanding solo performances:

Music on the Seas From March 3-7, St. John’s performing arts students competed in a music festival aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise to the Bahamas.

Each year, the SJC Performing Arts Department takes its students to national and international festivals for musical competitions. This is the first time St. John’s students have participated in a Cruise Festival, operated by Music Festivals and Tours, which offers students the chance to compete in a unique environment. Each musical group gives a performance that is adjudicated by professionals on board the ship. The groups then receive an on-stage clinic designed to help improve their overall performance.

Cadet Promotions 2016-2017 On March 23, St. John’s announced the names and ranks of next year’s Cadet Corps leaders, including the next cadet colonel, Julia Miller ’17. The senior officers for the 2016-2017 school year are listed below; visit the news section of our website to read the full list of promotions.

• Colonel: Julia Miller ’17 • Regimental Command Sergeant Major: Beth Rendely ’17

14 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

St. John’s Wind Ensemble, String Ensemble, Competition Jazz Band and Vocal Resonance groups traveled to Florida on Thursday, March 3, making good use of their time in the airport to squeeze in a few final rehearsals. On Friday, the students and faculty members boarded their cruise ship and set sail for Nassau, Bahamas.

Their competition performances began early Saturday morning in front of judges Tony Peluso, University of Central Florida, and Ryan Fletcher, College of William and Mary. The students spent the rest of the day Saturday on various excursions to the shore.

On Sunday, the St. John’s group traveled off ship to CocoCay, Bahamas, for a

• Regimental Executive Officer: Kassian O’Keefe ’17 • Lieutenant Colonel: Jessica Colvin ’17 • Lieutenant Colonel: Kyle Reagan ’17 • Lieutenant Colonel: David Young ’17 • Command Sergeant Major: Connor Griffin ’17 • Command Sergeant Major: Rachel Novosel ’17

• Patrick Castillo ’17 – tenor sax, Jazz Ensemble • Keana Cooper ’16 – flute, Wind Ensemble • Carlos De Leon ’16 – guitar, Jazz Ensemble • Kayla Edwards ’16 – alto sax, Jazz Ensemble • Wahdae Elliott ’16 – trumpet, Wind Ensemble • Maya Hartwell ’16 – clarinet, Wind Ensemble • Aaron Roberts ’18 – trombone, Jazz Ensemble For complete trip details, visit the SJC performing arts blog at www.stjohnschs. org/artsblog.

• Command Sergeant Major: Jacob Petersen ’17

wo years ago, St. John’s Board of Trustees and administration designed a comprehensive campus master plan. This plan is a continuation of 20 years of thoughtful growth and planning focused on one goal: how to best meet the needs of our students.

In order to bring the campus master plan to fruition, St. John’s launched a capital campaign in 2014 to raise Funding and support for these transformational projects.

Through the support of our alumni, parents and friends, we are now well on our way to completing the first phase of the master plan, which supports the arts, mission and ministry, and moving into the second phase, which will expand our athletic facilities to bring them up to modern standards.

“Over the last 20 years, St. John’s has seen tremendous growth in our enrollment and academic programs, integrated cutting-edge technology into our curriculum and invested in teachers who view education as a calling and a vocation,” said St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli. “All of this exciting growth demands that we develop new ways to serve future generations of St. John’s students. By staying true to our Lasallian foundation, and with the commitment and support of the St. John’s community, we can make our vision for the campus a reality.”

Phase I – Arts, Mission and Ministry

W

hen St. John’s examined the school’s most pressing needs, enhancing the student experience was the clear priority. St. John’s students are deeply involved in the life of the school, often through numerous outlets. For example, they may play clarinet in the Wind Ensemble, serve as a Peer Minister and lead their class as a member of the Student Government Association.

Over the last 10 years, our extracurricular programs have grown significantly. Participation in the band, orchestra and choral programs has more than tripled during that time. Through our Mission and Ministry programs, more than 85 percent of students attend retreat programs, and the student body collectively performs more than 25,000 hours of Christian service each year. Our fine arts program has expanded from one teacher with four classes to three full-time teachers and 15 different sections of art, including three AP courses.

However, the school’s facilities have not kept up with the student body’s growth, and they are limiting the potential of these programs and their dedicated student participants.

St. John’s Campaign for the Arts, Mission and Ministry was designed to respond to the needs of those students.

The Donatelli Center for the Fine and Performing Arts The enactment of the campus master plan began in the summer of 2015, when St. John’s started construction on the Donatelli Center for the Fine and Performing Arts. When construction is completed 16 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Donatelli Center for the Fine and Performing Arts

Cap Mona Student Center

this summer, the Donatelli Center will serve as the home of our visual, instrumental and vocal arts programs.

The first phase was the renovation of St. John’s fine arts studio.

During the summer of 2015, that space was completely reconstructed into two separate studios, a student workroom and a faculty office.

There is now significantly more storage for student portfolios and three-dimensional work. The student workroom houses a large format color printer and the school’s only 3D printer, making it possible for students to work on projects during their free periods without disturbing the classes in session.

Larger windows were installed in both studios to let more light into the classrooms. The adjacent outdoor patio was also expanded to allow students to find inspiration in nature. As a result, St. John’s students now have a professional space that better allows our artists to create, display and share their varying styles and techniques with the community.

“It’s a much more inspiring space. You can’t help but be in the right mindset to work in our studios,” said Tiffany Mills, fine arts chair. “Before the renovation, it was crowded and there wasn’t a place for students to work on their own projects. Now they have the freedom to be more autonomous and to work more independently.”

In the fall, construction began on St. John’s new 15,000-squarefoot performing arts wing. One of the school’s greatest needs was a larger space for our vocal and instrumental music programs. Currently, our 16 curricular and extracurricular instrumental ensembles share one multipurpose rehearsal space. They have no storage space for instruments, and there is no space for individual practice.

“ It’s a much more inspiring space. You can’t help but be in the right mindset to work in our studios.”

–TIFFANY MILLS, FINE ARTS CHAIR

“With what we have now, we’re tripping over ourselves trying to find places for our students to work,” said Ken Hammann, director of bands and performing arts chair. “More than just providing a wonderful new space, the performing arts wing will allow us to meet the everyday needs of our students.”

The new performing arts wing will provide plenty of space for our vocal and instrumental programs to reach their full potential. The space includes three performance classrooms outfitted with exceptional acoustic design, a huge improvement from the current music classrooms. Because of the poor acoustics in the current classrooms, St. John’s seven vocal music groups often hold practices in the school’s main entrance, which has a high ceiling. With the new space, that will no longer be

St. John’s College High School 17

necessary. “Now our students will experience what it’s like to perform in a concert hall every day,” Hammann said.

In addition, the new wing has individual practice rooms on each of its three floors. Right now, St. John’s musicians have nowhere to practice their music privately – the current space is booked throughout the school day and well into the afternoon to allow the instrumental and vocal ensembles to rehearse. The practice rooms will allow our student-musicians to book time to work on their instrument or vocal music outside of the larger rehearsals and classes.

More than just a rehearsal space, the new performing arts wing is a true musical education space. The performing arts classes will be able to fully incorporate the educational technology used by the school’s other departments into their curriculum. Although the music classes already integrate iPad technology into their coursework, they will now be able to project their work and share it with the entire class. This will allow for more collaboration as students use programs to write, analyze and produce music. Students will also be able to study video of their performances and those of other musicians. In addition, the performing arts wing includes three new academic classrooms.

With the additional space, our award-winning musicians can improve their performance and unlock new abilities. Construction will be completed this summer, and the entire Donatelli Center will be open to our students this fall. The performing arts students and faculty are looking forward to working in their beautiful new space and enjoying the amazing views of campus from its large windows, a significant change from their current underground classrooms. Most of all, they are looking forward to having a space truly designed for and dedicated to their program.

“They are excited to be given a space to claim. Much like athletes have a field, this new space will give our students a place to call their own,” said Kate Fernandez, director of vocal music.

The Cap Mona Student Center Beginning this summer, the space currently occupied by the performing arts classrooms will be renovated and expanded into the Cap Mona Student Center. The center will serve as the new heart of campus, providing a place for students to relax, gather and grow as a community.

The center will include a shared lounge space with tables, charging docks and televisions. A glass-enclosed walkway will link the center to the main school buildings, and the new Gletner Courtyard will offer a completely renovated green quad with additional patio space for student use.

Appropriately, the Lasallian Center for Mission and Ministry will be located in this new heart of campus, just as the spiritual development of our students is at the core of a Lasallian education.

St. John’s Department of Mission and Ministry helps students explore the human experience and come to a deeper understanding of their faith. The department coordinates school-wide liturgies and grade-level retreats and seminars, manages the school’s robust Christian Service Program and plans spring break and summer service immersion trips.

18 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

In the school’s most recent Lasallian Assessment, it was determined that these ever-expanding programs needed a space of their own. The new Lasallian Center will offer four dedicated, private offices for the Mission and Ministry staff and a conference room for retreat planning, training and meetings of St. John’s service-based organizations, such as the Peer Ministers and Lasallian Youth.

“This welcoming space will draw students in, inviting them to grow their faith and express it, particularly through prayer, community building, retreat planning, Christian service and advocacy,” said Tom Sipowicz, director of mission integration. “St. John’s is likely experiencing one of the most dynamic and growth-filled chapters of its long history. It’s appropriate that our mission and ministry programs expand as the school navigates the best ways to meet the needs of the next generation of Cadets.”

“ This welcoming space will draw students in, inviting them to grow their faith and express it, particularly through prayer, community building, retreat planning, Christian service and advocacy.”

–TOM SIPOWICZ, DIRECTOR OF MISSION INTEGRATION

Another exciting feature of the Cap Mona Student Center is the new Gene Morrill Blackbox Theater, named in honor of Gene Morrill, St. John’s director and producer from 1965 through 1975.

St. John’s Theatre stages two to three full productions each year, but currently these students have minimal space to rehearse – they must share the overscheduled multipurpose rehearsal space with the instrumental and vocal ensembles. In addition, they have limited storage for costumes and props and use the school’s restrooms as their dressing rooms.

The new theater complex will give our students and faculty a flexible space that can fully support their work, as well as allow them to expand their repertoire. The complex will include dressing rooms, a green room, additional storage and the Tim Emerson Director’s Office, named in honor of Tim Emerson ’84, director of St. John’s Theatre since 1990.

The blackbox theater will serve as an in-depth rehearsal space, but it can also be used to perform intimate plays or host recitals, lectures and small concerts. The Frana Auditorium will still serve as the primary location for concerts and performances, but with the addition of the blackbox theater, our students will have the opportunity to expand their performances and share more of their work with the community.

“The theater complex is exactly what we need. Not only will it allow us to consolidate our rehearsals with our storage and administra-

Kevin Plank ’90: A Transformational Gift On Nov. 6, Kevin Plank ’90 announced that his private foundation, The Cupid Foundation, had pledged a gift of $16 million to St. John’s.

This has been a leadership gift in St. John’s capital campaign to support athletics, academics and entrepreneurship initiatives. It is the largest gift in the school’s history and one of the most generous grants ever made to a Catholic high school.

The Cupid Foundation grant will launch the second phase of St. John’s master plan, which primarily supports capital projects, including new state-of-the-art athletic facilities, unrivaled in the area. In addition, the gift helped establish the Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership, linking the American spirit of entrepreneurship to core Lasallian traditions of leadership and service. Funds will also enhance several academic programs and provide additional tuition assistance for students who might not otherwise have access to a St. John’s education.

“Kevin Plank’s transformational gift will impact the lives of every student on campus. The new St. John’s Center for Athletic Excellence will provide a world-class sports venue for our teams and an educational experience for our student-athletes, faculty and coaches,” said Jeff Mancabelli, St. John’s president. “Beyond athletics, Mr. Plank’s gift will provide us the opportunity to expand our curriculum and strengthen our leadership programs.”

“The most important aspect of this gift is the tuition assistance that we will provide to students who might not otherwise be able to afford the St. John’s experience,” said Plank. “I am committed to investing in education, entrepreneurship and promoting physical fitness in Baltimore and Washington, DC. Providing great facili-

Kevin Plank ’90 announced his $16 million gift to St. John’s at the Cadet Corps Centennial on Nov. 6. ties, academics and programming to current and future students at St. John’s is just one very important part of that commitment.”

As a trustee and alumnus, Plank has long supported the school’s leadership in emphasizing all aspects of a Lasallian education, from academics to the arts and athletics, as well as the leadership tradition embodied in the 100-year history of the Cadet Corps program.

Other key leadership donors to the campus master plan include: Tom ’65 and Karen Frana, Cap ’61 and Christina Mona, Lou ’52 and Ann Donatelli, Tom ’84 and Karen Gletner, John ’65 and Kari Hughett and the Donohoe Companies.

tive operations, but the blackbox itself will provide the flexibility to present a wide range of performances, from intimate recitals and oneperson shows to poetry slams and open mic nights to full productions,” Emerson said. “It will also be a fantastic dressing facility and ‘green room’ for the large-scale shows being mounted in the Frana.”

Construction will begin on the Cap Mona Student Center this summer, and it is expected to open in the winter of 2017.

800 student-athletes and create equity between our boys’ and girls’ athletic teams, better meeting the needs of our students.

“This phase of St. John’s campus master plan is both a visionary plan for our athletics facilities and a pragmatic approach to meeting the future needs of both our boys and girls,” said Brian Griffin, director of athletics. “It is intended to provide a comprehensive framework for programmatic development by enhancing the training and competition facilities for all of our student-athletes.”

Phase II – Athletics

Renovation and Expansion of Gallagher and Roth Gymnasiums Gallagher Gymnasium has not been upgraded since its construction in the 1960s, and Roth Gymnasium has not been updated since it opened in 1999. These facilities are simply no longer able to sufficiently support St. John’s current athletic programs. In order to better serve our student-athletes, St. John’s will renovate and expand these facilities as part of the second phase of the campus master plan.

“Obviously, Gallagher was a truly state-of-the-art facility when it was built specifically for an all-boys military academy in the 1960s, but we have expanded our offerings significantly both as an educational institution and an athletics program,”

A

fter phase one of the campus master plan is completed, St. John’s will prepare to launch phase two, which will expand the school’s athletic facilities by more than 35,000 square feet. When St. John’s moved to the Military Road campus in 1959, it was still an all-boys school. In 1991, when St. John’s welcomed girls to campus, the number of athletic teams doubled. However, the athletic facilities were not expanded to accommodate the new teams and athletes. St. John’s current facilities are simply not designed to serve our nearly 1,100 male and female students.

By expanding and enhancing our current athletic facilities, St. John’s will improve the on-campus experience for our more than 19 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

St. John’s College High School 19

Gallagher Gymnasium Exterior The Cap Mona Student Center and Gletner Courtyard

20 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Gallagher Gymnasium Lobby

Gallagher Gymnasium Gallagher Gymnasium Lounge

Gallagher Gymnasium Locker Room

Griffin said. “This phase will take SJC to a world-class level for all of our student-athletes for the next 50 years and beyond, just as Gallagher did for the last 50 years.”

Gallagher’s main entrance will be expanded to a double-height open lobby. This project will add a much-needed elevator and a new Athletic Hall of Fame display celebrating St. John’s athletic history and the athletes who have proudly represented the school.

The expansion will also add a tiered classroom, student lounge and a new concession stand for Cadet fans.

This renovation will also include an expanded 8,000-squarefoot strength and conditioning center. This will provide our fulltime strength and conditioning staff with the proper landscape to provide the gold standard in systematic development and injury reduction.

An upper level will be added to Gallagher, featuring an alumni room with great views of the action on Gallagher’s court, which serves as the home of our championship-winning volleyball, girls’ basketball and boys’ basketball programs. A multipurpose student club room will also look down onto the court, allowing students to broadcast and produce video of athletic events.

A new office suite will house the athletic staff and coaches.

Finally, Gallagher Gymnasium will be renovated to add telescopic seating with an increased capacity of 950 fans, as well as new graphics, a new scoreboard and upgraded sound systems.

A two-story addition to Roth Gymnasium will serve as the new home of the Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership, including a new Innovation Lab. This new space will also provide an additional classroom, hydration and nutrition facilities and locker rooms for visiting teams and coaches/officials.

St. John’s Performance Center The athletic facilities expansion also includes the addition of a 25,000-square-foot performance center to Gallagher Gymnasium, built on the location of the existing tennis courts. This addition will help address the deficiencies in gender equity among our athletic teams by providing enough multi-sport locker rooms to serve each of our 26 sports.

“This expansion will enable us to better serve the entire student body and our sport teams, particularly our girls’ programs, which comprise approximately 45% of our athletes on campus,” Griffin said. “Gender equity is now a cornerstone of our athletics program and will remain a priority in everything that we do.”

The center will also include a new sports medicine suite with large hydrotherapy and recovery pools. A turf room will accommodate hitting and pitching practice for our baseball and softball programs, as well as accommodating indoor plyometric training for all studentathletes. A new golf simulator will allow our golfers to analyze their swings, ensure proper club fitting and improve their game throughout the year through innovative performance technology. An adjacent crew training room will feature multiple erg machines and will also support the active care component of sports medicine.

The school’s four tennis courts will be moved to the top of the training center addition. Below the training center, space will be excavated to construct a new wrestling room.

“St. John’s has spent the past several years building a comprehensive performance training platform that focuses on overall personal and athletic development through purposeful programming, proper nutrition and hydration,” Griffin said. “We are leading the way for our individual athletes and their teams to be at their best when their best is needed.”

St. John’s College High School 21

Sports at St. John’s

Fall 2015 Sports In Review The football team opened their season in Florida for the second year in a row and quickly got on a roll, beating Atlantic 41-0. The Cadets split their next two games, beating a strong Spalding team before losing an away game against Steubenville (OH) 22-14.

St. John’s faced Good Counsel in their WCAC opener and won in dramatic fashion, going into triple-overtime to secure the victory. However, the big22 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

gest moment of the 2015 season was the 21-17 upset of then No. 1-ranked Gonzaga. The Cadets’ season ended in a WCAC playoff loss to DeMatha. St. John’s finished the fall ranked No. 18

by The Washington Post, and 18 players earned All-WCAC honors. Two players also earned All-Met recognition.

Field hockey continued the path they began last season, when the team made its first WCAC finals appearance. This year the girls took their game to the next level, resulting in the school’s first field hockey WCAC championship. A combination of youth and experience seemed

to be the key for the Cadets, relying on scoring from a freshman and a junior and goalkeeping from a stellar senior in the final to upset reigning champions Good Counsel. St. John’s finished the season as the No. 10 team in The Washington Post’s All-Met rankings. Corey Kelly (formerly Samperton) won her second consecutive WCAC Coach of the Year award.

Volleyball continues to be the dominant program in Washington, DC. The Cadets won the DCSAA championship for the third consecutive season.

Led by DC Gatorade Player of the Year and University of Central Florida

Sports at St. John’s

commit Jeanne Westney ’16, who was named tournament MVP with 13 kills, 10 digs, four aces and four blocks, the Cadets could not be stopped in city play. St. John’s had five players earn All-WCAC honors, and Westney was also recognized as an All-Met athlete.

Cross country capped the 2015 season with a strong showing at the WCAC championship races. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams finished fifth at the event, while senior Emily Carroll, who finished in the top 10 of almost every race this fall, finished third overall, earning first team all-WCAC honors.

Girls’ soccer started building team chemistry early in the season, including a 2-2 tie in a key away game against William Penn Charter School (PA). Highlights of the season included wins against Walter Johnson (3-1), Bullis (2-1) and St. Mary’s Ryken in the WCAC playoffs (1-0).

Boys’ soccer continued toward their goal of becoming a top team in the WCAC. The Cadets went 3-3-3 in conference play, improving upon last year’s record. Wins against Bullis (1-0) and Wilson (2-0) on senior night were big for the program, but the highlight was a 2-0 win over WCAC foe Good Counsel.

Though girls’ tennis lost last year’s best player and plenty of top talent at graduation, new Head Coach Malcolm Greene has the program headed in the right direction. The team finished in second place at this year’s WCAC championships.

St. John’s crew is another program under new leadership, as Margaux Deja took the helm for the Cadets this fall.

The Cadets had a busy fall schedule, rowing in the Head of the Potomac, the Head of the Christiana, the Head of the Schuylkill and the Head of the Occoquan events in preparation for the more competitive spring season.

St. John’s College High School 23

Sports at St. John’s

fall 2015 athletic honors INDIVIDUAL

• Terrell Hall ’16 – DC Gatorade Player of the Year, Football; Herman Boone High School Player of the Year; Under Armour All-American, Football • Aaron Hansford ’16 – Under Armour All-American, Football • Jeanne Westney ’16 – DC Gatorade Player of the Year, Volleyball

ALL-MET First Team • Terrell Hall ’16 (Football) Second Team • Aaron Hansford ’16 (Football) • Jeanne Westney ’16 (Volleyball) Honorable Mention • William Greening ’16 (Soccer) • Maliah Morris ’19 (Soccer) • Gena Witt ’17 (Field Hockey)

ALL-WCAC Coach of the Year • Corey (Samperton) Kelly (Field Hockey) First Team • Emily Carroll ’16 (Cross Country) • William Greening ’16 (Soccer) • Terrell Hall ’16 (Football) • Allie Heyl ’17 (Field Hockey) • Maliah Morris ’19 (Soccer) • Micah Royster ’16 (Football) • Jeanne Westney ’16 (Volleyball) • Gena Witt ’17 (Field Hockey) • Katie Wright ’16 (Field Hockey) Second Team • Joachim Bangda ’19 (Football) • Molly Brock ’18 (Field Hockey) • Rafael Checa ’18 (Football) • John Dour ’16 (Soccer) • Aaron Hansford ’16 (Football) • Noel Hijazi ’16 (Football) • Ali House ’17 (Field Hockey) • Savohn Hunt ’16 (Football) • Maggie Scott ’16 (Field Hockey) • Ashley Ventura ’17 (Soccer) • Ryan Vessels ’17 (Football)

Third Team • Aaron Brown ’16 (Football) • DJ Brown ’18 (Football) • Rebecca Frye ’18 (Volleyball) • Cameron Goode ’18 (Football) • Daniel Jeffrey ’16 (Football) • Tyree Johnson ’17 (Football) Honorable Mention • Lauren Antonucci ’19 (Volleyball) • Kelli Brookshire ’16 (Volleyball) • Kordell Brown ’16 (Football) • Nick Coleman ’16 (Soccer) • Mary Kate Ford ’16 (Soccer) • Stephanie Heffron ’18 (Field Hockey) • Stanley Hubbard ’17 (Football) • Maggie Iapalucci ’16 (Volleyball) • Beau Johnson ’17 (Soccer) • Carly Latessa ’16 (Field Hockey) • Darryl McDaniel ’17 (Football) • Jose Melendez ’19 (Soccer) • Paige Merz ’18 (Soccer) • Tony Perez ’16 (Football) • KP Rurka ’16 (Field Hockey) • Kylia Sykes ’16 (Football) • Grace Walsh ’18 (Soccer)

Volleyball Wins Third Consecutive DC Title On Nov. 13, St. John’s volleyball captured their third straight DCSAA championship. Even more impressive is the fact that the Cadets are the only team to win the title since its inception in 2013.

After losing 2014 DCSAA Player of the Year Lena Washington ’15 to graduation, it was up to the rest of the Cadets to rise to the challenge.

The Cadets defeated Sidwell Friends 3-2 in the quarterfinals and Georgetown Day 3-0 in the semifinals. St. John’s then faced a dangerous Maret team in the championship match for the second year in a row. The Cadets proved they were too tough to handle and were able to fend off a scrappy Maret team to earn the DC state championship in straight sets (25-18, 25-22, 25-18).

Although Washington left the Cadets, the DCSAA MVP award did not, as

24 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Jeanne Westney ’16 earned it this year.

Her skills were on display, as she was able to control the match with 13 kills, 10 digs, four aces and four blocks.

Rebecca Frye ’18 was a standout in the championship game, finishing with 14 assists, 11 digs and five kills. Lauren Antonucci ’19 and Anika Eigen-Zucchi ’19 gave reason to be excited for the program’s future, combining for nine kills against Maret.

Kelli Brookshire ’16 and Maggie Iapalucci ’16 each passed for six digs, while Emily Goodwin ’17 chipped in with seven digs.

“The road to winning DC has become tougher over the years, but it is great to see that we were one of a handful of schools around the country who were able to win their final volleyball match of the season,” said Head Coach Bill Pribac. “To do it three times in a row is pretty remarkable.”

Sports at St. John’s

St. John’s Field Hockey Wins First League Championship St. John’s field hockey program has truly arrived, defeating two of the area’s traditional powerhouses on the way to their first WCAC championship. In fact, Good Counsel and Holy Cross are the only two teams to have won the WCAC prior to 2015, and this year those two teams stood between the Cadets and their yearlong goal.

On Oct. 20, St. John’s outlasted Holy Cross 1-0 in an overtime rematch of the double-overtime thriller that sent the Cadets to last year’s championship. Then, just one game away from the title, the Cadets took the field against a familiar foe in Good Counsel.

After beating SJC 3-0 in the regular season, Good Counsel entered the game as favorites to repeat. Early in the match, it looked as though the Falcons

had the upper hand. The Cadets buckled down to stop five consecutive corner tries from the Falcons, only to fend off two more after failing to clear the ball.

Stymying the early onslaught from Good Counsel, however, seemed to give the Cadets the confidence they needed to play their style of field hockey. With 12:34 left to play in the first half, SJC made their first strike, as Clara Morrison ’19 scored an assisted goal on a quick pass from Stephanie Heffron ’18 in front of Good Counsel’s goal line.

The second half saw more chances for SJC as they got their share of corner tries, and with 17:24 left in the game, Ali House ’17 cracked through the Falcon defense with a hard drive that deflected into the back of the net to put the Cadets up 2-0. That would be the final score of

the game, and as the clock reached 0:00, a storm of red rushed the field to reach goaltender Katie Wright ’16, who played phenomenally and had 10 saves in the shutout.

The SJC field hockey program is just 12 years old, as St. John’s fielded its first varsity team in 2003-2004, making this championship the program’s first. Coach Corey (Samperton) Kelly said the reason this team broke through is clear. “I am so proud to have a team that wore their hearts on their sleeves and let that passion fuel their fight and their determination all year long. These girls go to battle with each other and for each other, and it is out of a love for the game, for each other and for this program. That is what makes us different from any other team we play. When you play with the energy and determination that my girls played with, you can’t lose.”

St. John’s College High School 25

Sports at St. John’s

College Commitments This winter, St. John’s had 22 studentathletes commit to continuing their careers at the collegiate level. These students from the baseball, basketball, soccer, football and volleyball programs were recognized during the school year with official signing events. Congratulations!

• Devante Brooks (Football) – University of Tennessee • Aaron Brown (Football) – Bucknell University • Kordell Brown (Football) – Morehead State University • Sam Brustad (Baseball) – McDaniel College

26 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

• Madison Cheatham (Basketball) – Scared Heart University • DeJuan Clayton (Basketball) – Coppin State University • Anthony Cowan (Basketball) – University of Maryland • Allie DeGrouchy (Softball) – LeMoyne College • Jeffrey Dowtin (Basketball) – University of Rhode Island • Terrell Hall (Football) – University of Alabama • Aaron Hansford (Football) – Texas A&M University • Carmyn Hayes (Soccer) – University of Wisconsin • Savohn Hunt (Football) – Morehead State University

• Niko Jenkins (Baseball) – LaSalle University • Sydney Kirsch (Swimming) – Virginia Tech • Myles Mensah (Baseball) – Hofstra University • Sarah Overcash (Basketball) – University of Illinois • Cam Remalia (Baseball) Coastal Carolina University • Kayla Robbins (Basketball) – University of Michigan • Micah Royster (Football) – University at Albany • Josh Simon (Baseball) – Virginia Commonwealth University • Jeanne Westney (Volleyball) – University of Central Florida

Sports at St. John’s

winter 2015-16 Sports In Review Boys’ basketball had one of the program’s best seasons in recent memory, going 19-2 in conference play – which included two wins each over Gonzaga and DeMatha. Led by WCAC Coach of the Year Sean McAloon, the Cadets won the WCAC championship for the first time since 2000, defeating DeMatha in the finals. Anthony Cowan ’16, one of four highly decorated seniors, was named as the All-Met Player of the Year.

Girls’ basketball was consistently ranked in the top 10 by The Washington Post throughout the season, and the team reached the WCAC finals before losing to the Paul VI in the title match. The Cadets saved their best for last and defeated Georgetown Visitation in the DCSAA championship, where Kayla Robbins ’16 was named tournament MVP. Wrestling continued their dominance in Washington, DC, winning the city championship for the fourth consecutive season. In Head Coach Karl Danso’s final season at the helm, the Cadets sent a record eight wrestlers to National Preps.

Ice hockey continued to improve in the premier division of the MAPHL (Mid-Atlantic Prep Hockey League), improving from the bottom of the rankings in 2015 – their first in the AA division – to eighth out of 13 teams. The Cadets finished the season with a 6-9-1 record.

Indoor track and field carried over much of their success from last season and translated it into impressive results this winter. Eric Harrison ’17 held the No. 2 time in the nation in the 200m for a stretch of the season and finished No. 6 in the 55m and the 200m. Alahna Sabbakhan ’19 held the No. 6 spot in the 400m.

Swim and dive’s Sydney Kirsch ’16 capped an illustrious career at SJC by earning honorable mention All-Met honors. The team finished second in the league championship for the girls and sixth for the boys. The Cadets set 13 new school records this season.

St. John’s College High School 27

Sports at St. John’s

winter 2015-16 athletic honors ALL-MET Player of the Year • Anthony Cowan ’16 (Basketball) First Team • Kayla Robbins ’16 (Basketball) • Malcolm Robinson ’18 (Wrestling) Second Team • Jeffrey Dowtin ’16 (Basketball) Third Team • Aisha Sheppard ’17 (Basketball) Honorable Mention • Ben Calaman ’17 (Ice Hockey) • Kasey Ebb ’18 (Indoor Track) • Demani Hansford ’17 (Indoor Track) • Eric Harrison ’17 (Indoor Track)

28 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

• Brian Hennessy ’17 (Wrestling) • Sydney Kirsch ’16 (Swimming) • Griffin Long ’17 (Ice Hockey) • Alahna Sabbakhan ’19 (Indoor Track) • Gavin Stoddard ’18 (Wrestling) • Kylia Sykes ’16 (Basketball)

Honorable Mention • DeJuan Clayton ’16 (Basketball) • Jaylin Carodine ’18 (Basketball) • Asia McCray ’17 (Basketball) • Sydney Wood ’18 (Basketball)

ALL-USA DC

ALL-WCAC

(USA TODAY High School Sports)

Coach of the Year • Sean McAloon (Boys’ Basketball)

Coach of the Year: • Jonathan Scribner (Girls’ Basketball)

First Team • Anthony Cowan ’16 (Basketball) • Jeffrey Dowtin ’16 (Basketball) • Kylia Sykes ’16 (Basketball) • Kayla Robbins ’16 (Basketball) • Aisha Sheppard ’17 (Basketball)

First Team: • Anthony Cowan ’16 (Basketball) • Kayla Robbins ’16 (Basketball) • Aisha Sheppard ’17 (Basketball)

Second Team • Sarah Overcash ’16 (Basketball) Third Team • Niya Beverley ’17 (Basketball)

Second Team: • Jeffrey Dowtin ’16 (Basketball)

Sports at St. John’s

Girls’ Basketball Wins DC Championship On March 6, St. John’s girls’ basketball team defeated Georgetown Visitation 59-47 to win the DC State Athletic Association championship.

The Cadets got out to an early lead by being patient and converting good looks on offense while staying aggressive and jumping passing lanes on defense. This combination led to the No. 10 St. John’s upset of No. 7 Visitation. Behind the efforts of Kayla Robbins ’16 (20 points and seven rebounds), as well as Aisha Sheppard ’17 (22 points), the Cadets ended the season with one of their best all-around games. Robbins was selected as the tournament’s MVP. The Cadets reached the WCAC finals a week earlier before losing to eventual champion Paul VI. It was important to Head Coach Jonathan Scribner and the Cadets to send the seniors out with a win.

“Every team strives to finish its season winning the final game,” said Scribner. “I’m so proud of our seniors and happy for them

to go out on top. And hopefully this title will act as a spring board for our returning players to get back here and win it again.”

St. John’s had eight individual champions, all of whom went on to compete in the prestigious National Preps tournament, while Caelan Doherty ’16 and Aidan Rocha ’19 came in second overall in their weight classes.

Speaking on how winning the DC title has become a regular occurrence for St. John’s, Danso said: “I think before, the goal used to be DC. Now the guys really have their eyes set on National Preps. It’s been really fun to watch these guys grow.”

Wrestling Earns Fourth Consecutive City Championship On Feb. 20, St. John’s wrestling team won the school’s fourth consecutive Washington, DC, city championship.

Coach Karl Danso’s squad cemented their status as DC’s premier wrestling pro-

gram by defeating Gonzaga and Sidwell Friends, among others, at the DC city wrestling championship. The Class of 2016 has now won the DC city championship during each of their seasons at SJC.

Individual champions: • Jack Cassidy ’17 • Jalen Dickerson ’18 • Imran Heard ’18* (pin) • Brian Hennessy ’17* (pin) • Patrick McConville ’17 (pin) • Adrian Nelson ’16* • Malcolm Robinson ’18* (pin) • Gavin Stoddard ’18 (pin) *Second-time champion St. John’s College High School 29

Sports at St. John’s

St. John’s Wins First WCAC Boys’ Basketball Title Since 2000 On Feb. 22, St. John’s boys’ varsity basketball team defeated DeMatha 71-57 to win the 2016 WCAC championship.

After splitting their regular season match-ups – St. John’s lost the first match-up 59-57 at home on a last-second missed shot and won the rematch at DeMatha 61-54 – the Cadets and the Stags met for a final time in front of a sold-out crowd at American University, and St. John’s left no doubt as to who was the best team in the WCAC this year. With a combination of speed, teamwork, lock-down defense and determination, the Cadets were simply too much for a well-coached and talented DeMatha team to handle.

The Cadets attacked the basket relentlessly and made every point that

30 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

DeMatha scored a difficult endeavor.

Anthony Cowan ’16 led SJC with 21 points and seven assists, while Kylia Sykes ’16 scored 17, DeJuan Clayton ’16 scored 15 and Jeffrey Dowtin ’16 scored 13. Reese Mona ’17 hit a clutch threepointer and dished out some timely assists to help seal the win, while Tre Wood ’18, Emmanuel Hylton ’17 and Richard Njoku ’18 were vital on defense for the Cadets.

Senior leadership was instrumental in the Cadets’ success this season.

Clayton, Cowan, Dowtin and Sykes unselfishly shared the spotlight, and each one made pivotal plays in big moments throughout the season. Whether it was Cowan scoring 40 points in a single game; Dowtin hitting four

three-pointers and scoring 22 points in the second game against DeMatha with the No. 1 seed on the line; Clayton’s combination of strong drives, defense and timely three-pointers; or rebounding-machine Sykes grabbing every loose ball in sight, the Cadets could rely on one of their senior stars to step up when it counted.

After the monumental win, SJC’s first WCAC boys’ basketball championship since 2000, Head Coach Sean McAloon spoke about the team’s big moment: “You don’t get into coaching just to win championships. You get in it to have kids realize their dreams. I’m watching them back there celebrating, and that is the coolest part about this whole thing.”

Alumni Action

Leadership Lessons On Feb. 9, Chris Stevens ’70 returned to campus to speak to students and alumni about leadership and entrepreneurialism.

Currently a professor and entrepreneur, Stevens has had a wide range of professional experience. After earning his undergraduate degree in economics from Notre Dame, he played professional basketball in Europe, worked for Procter and Gamble and spent 12 years as president of an Anheuser-Busch distributorship before meeting the founders of the Keurig coffee system.

Stevens took a chance on the start up and became part of the “core four” who developed and launched Keurig in 1998.

They built it into a $5 billion enterprise that sold for more than $13 billion last year. Stevens was initially responsible for all sales, marketing, branding, distribution and public relations. Keurig’s success led him to a new position in charge of corporate relations, including corporate social responsibility.

In 2013, he left Keurig to become a full-time instructor at Notre Dame’s Melendez School of Business. He is also the founder of CS74 Ventures, an LLC for 18 different companies Stevens owns or has invested in. These companies have made a commitment to donate at least 50% of their proceeds to charity or social causes.

In the morning, Stevens spoke to St. John’s freshman class as part of the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership (see the article on page 8 for more detail). His presentation focused on leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation and dreams. He shared examples from his own career and the careers of other well-known leaders and innovators, such as Colin Powell, Oprah Winfrey, Steve Jobs and Jay-Z, to show these students what can be achieved through goal-setting and hard work.

He explained that great leaders are able to inspire others to believe in their dreams. He also stressed that trust, good character, diversity, discipline and giving back would serve as keys to success in

both their personal and professional lives.

Finally, he described innovation as “acting on the obvious” and finding a way to fulfill people’s needs in a creative way.

“Leadership is about inspiring others, no matter what your chosen profession. Find something you love and pursue that as a career. Be open to changing your thinking. You can find new ideas and you can make a difference in the world if you just stop, step back and observe,” Stevens said.

Stevens then spoke to SJC alumni about the power of entrepreneurialism as the featured guest for this year’s Distinguished Speaker Series and Alumni Luncheon, hosted by the St. John’s Alumni

Above: Chris Stevens ’70 was the keynote speaker at St. John’s Annual Distinguished Speaker Series and Alumni Luncheon.

Below: Stevens reunited with some of his classmates at the alumni luncheon.

From left: Tom Long ’68, Stevens, Jorge Garayta ’67 and Tom Burns ’68.

Council. This annual event provides St. John’s graduates with the chance to network with each other and hear from successful individuals in fields such as business and politics. Previous speakers include DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Raul Fernandez ’84, chairman of ObjectVideo and vice chairman of Monumental Sports and Entertainment.

St. John’s College High School 31

Alumni Action

Cadets At Large:

Andrew Butash ’07 “Let’s ride, Gypsies!”

Every time Andrew Butash ’07 and his family set out on a trip, his father would use that phrase to get them out the door.

Travel has always been an important part of his life, beginning with spending every summer in Spain through high school.

“My father always said travel is the best form of education, and I fully believe that.”

After graduating from St. John’s, Butash studied political science and telecommunications at Indiana University, fully intending to pursue a career in politics or media. However, when his father died unexpectedly in 2012, Butash changed his plans.

That October, he set off on a backpacking tour of Europe with some friends. It was during that trip that he came up with the idea for Gypsy Circle, a travel social-networking app. He wanted to be able to connect with friends before arriving at his destination – to see who had been there recently, who lived there or who might be visiting the same place at the same time. Basically, he said, he wanted to find a way to “travelstalk” friends.

32 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

When he returned to the U.S., Butash began making this travel social network a reality. He moved to New York City and officially began working on Gypsy Circle in January 2014. Butash first shared his idea with a couple of designers, who developed a prototype of the app to show how it could look and act. Then, he began the legal process of trademarking the name and setting up an LLC. Butash hired full-time developers to create the app, and they were able to officially launch on the iOS App Store in July 2015.

The result was a niche social media app that works just as Butash wanted – it provides a way for users to connect with friends and share travel plans. Privacy is important, so users have to add someone to their circle for them to see their information – because while you might be Facebook friends with your greataunt, you also might not want her to see pictures from your spring break trip to Cancun. Once connected through Gypsy Circle, users can see what trips their friends have planned, where their friends have been and, if someone is planning a trip within 15 miles of the user’s designated hometown, users receive a push message letting them know when their friends will be in the area. The most recent version of the app boasts a “Travel Feed” that makes it easy for users to see all of this information in one place. “It is the premier travel social network. It really helps avoid missed connections. I use it whenever I travel anywhere; it’s an easy way to stay in touch with your network.”

Gypsy Circle is still a small operation – there are just five people on the team, most on a part-time basis. Butash is the chief executive office and founder, and the team also includes a chief financial officer, a chief operating officer, a vice president of marketing and a graphic designer. He also recently hired a development team based in Chicago to manage the coding.

For the first eight months, Butash

“boot-strapped” the company’s funding himself. Since that time, Gypsy Circle has raised more than $200,000 in outside investment. They closed their first round of funding in January, and in the spring they plan to begin raising their seed fund.

“With that capital, we’ll be able to do extraordinary things with Gypsy and really make it the go-to travel network.”

So far most of the company’s marketing has been word of mouth – friends of friends, fitting for a social networking app. Gypsy Circle has also been featured

by Business Insider, Huffington Post, Yahoo Finance and CBS. In November, Butash traveled to Dublin, Ireland, to represent Gypsy Circle at Web Summit, the largest technology conference in Europe. In February, the company launched its first marketing push, including a commercial that features appearances from Butash and classmate Phil Fenty ’07. To see the commercial, visit their website at www.gypsycircle.com.

Staying connected is the purpose of Gypsy Circle, and it’s allowed Butash to stay connected to the St. John’s community as well. He’s had a number of mentors throughout the start-up process, including Kevin Quinn ’82 – the two connected at a St. John’s alumni reception in New York. “Timing has been everything, and I’ve been lucky with the people I’ve met. I always think its great to stick with your community.”

For the immediate future, Butash said he can’t picture himself working on anything but Gypsy Circle. He plans to continue to grow Gypsy’s user community and add more features to the app, creating the first “future-tense” social network. “It’s been a tremendous learning experience. It’s stressful and tiring, but at the same time I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s exciting, and I love it.”

Alumni Action

Joel Hall '06 (right) with this year's awardee, Koryn Guile '17.

Why I Give: Joel Hall ’06 In 2015, Joel Hall ’06 made a decision.

For several years, she’d wanted to start giving back to the schools that made a difference in her life, but she hadn’t taken the first step. One day, while sitting at her desk at Northrop Grumman in Baltimore, MD, she realized the right time had come.

Hall reached out to St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli, who had been the school’s principal when she was a student.

She told him she wanted to give back to the school, and specifically, that she wanted to support students with backgrounds

similar to hers. He put her in touch with St. John’s Alumni and Development Office, and they worked with Hall to find the best way for her to get involved.

When Hall started at St. John’s in the fall of 2002, she said the tuition was a stretch for her family – not to mention fees for books, uniforms and other school expenses. Then, on top of that, there were senior year expenses, college application fees and the costs of having a social life.

“Those are the types of things I remember struggling with - those fees you don’t think of that are easy for some families, but are not easy for all families,” Hall said. “I never worried about tuition, although my mom probably did!”

Hall excelled academically and was able to earn scholarships to help pay her St. John’s tuition. However, she remembers distinctly that there was a cost of $1,500 that her family needed to pay in her senior year – and they just didn’t have the money.

An anonymous donor stepped up and paid that fee for Hall. To this day, she doesn’t know who that donor was, but she’s grateful for their generosity and now she tries to pay it forward. “Things like that have happened to me throughout my life, so I make it a point to give back as much as I can.”

To that end, Hall has established a scholarship that will be awarded annually to a female, African American student

entering her senior year at St. John’s. The awardee must have a high grade point average and a proven academic track record.

The scholarship currently provides $2,000 toward tuition, but Hall hopes to grow the amount in the future. However, she knows firsthand that every little bit helps, and she wants to do her part to make it easier for students like her to succeed. “I wanted to find a way to make that experience easier for kids who are like me, because I owe everything that I’ve accomplished in my life to my education, and St. John’s is a huge part of that. I wanted to be able to reach back and give to people who need it.”

Hall went on to earn her undergraduate degree from Morgan State University, and last August she earned a master’s degree in systems engineering from Johns Hopkins University. She currently works as an engineer for Northrop Grumman, a global aerospace and defense technology company. Hall knew from a young age that she wanted to be an engineer, and now she has the opportunity to educate young people, primarily women and minorities, about the value of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and to make them aware of the wide variety of career opportunities available in STEM fields. Like the scholarship, this outreach is another important way for her to give back to the community that made her story possible.

Cadets Support SJC at the Matt Dillon Golf Tournament On Sept. 11-12, St. John’s alumni gathered for the 2015 Matt Dillon Golf Tournament at Ocean City Golf Club in Berlin, MD. The tournament honors Matt Dillon ’69, who passed away in 2011, and helps reunite SJC alumni with friends, family and teammates. Dillon was a strong supporter of St. John’s football and baseball programs, and the proceeds from this event are donated to the school to support these teams.

This year’s event raised $8,000 for the football program and $2,000 for baseball program.

The 2016 tournament will be held on Sept. 9-10. For more information, visit www.mattdillongolf.com.

St. John’s College High School 33

Have You Thought About Your Legacy?

Planned Giving at St. John’s The De La Salle Legacy Society secures St. John’s future through planned gifts and provides another option for charitable giving. The most common type of planned gift is a bequest, but there are other opportunities that can provide income to you or your loved ones, as well as capital gains and estate tax relief.

Popular Ways To Give Wills and Living Trusts Beneficiary Designations Gifts That Provide Income Charitable Annuities Charitable Remainder Trusts More Ways To Give

Charitable Lead Trusts Endowed Gifts Memorials and Tribute Gifts Real Estate Donor-Advised Funds If you are interested in learning more about planned giving or have already included St. John’s in your estate, please contact Tom Veith, associate director of development, at tveith@stjohnschs.org or 202-364-0229, ext. 1078. You can also visit our website at www.stjohnschs.org/plannedgiving.

“My wife and I have a soft spot for St. John’s. We also see the advancement at St. John’s in the curriculum and physical plant and understand that it takes money to keep these things going. As the nun teaching my fifth grade class said, ‘The only money you can take with you is the money you give to charity.’” —Billy Scaggs ’54 De La Salle Legacy Society Members Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Anessi ’52 Mr. John Aydinian ’71 Mr. Henry G. Beuchler ’25 Mr. and Mrs. George H. Cain ’38 Mr. Timothy Lawrence Cox, Jr. ’56 Mr. Paul J. De Marco ’43 Mr. and Mrs. Louis T. Donatelli ’52 Mr. and Mrs. Joseph M. Giacalone ’55 Mr. Timothy Hannan ’71 Mr. Charles T. Hellmuth ’44 Mrs. Helen Hellmuth Mr. Joseph M. and Dr. Mary Ellen Hrutka Mr. Paul E. Kennedy ’63 Mr. Francis Malloy ’20 Ms. Grace J. Mattaro Mr. and Mrs. Robert V. Miller ’69 Rev. Raymond. C. O’Brien, Esq. ’62 Mr. John T. Peak ’63 Dr. and Mrs. Albert C. Pierce ’62 Mr. and Mrs. William G. Scaggs ’54 Mr. and Mrs. George A. Valanos Ms. Marian L. Weinaug If you are a member of the De La Salle Legacy Society and your name is not listed above, please contact Tom Veith.

O

n Nov. 6, St. John’s commemorated 100 years of the Cadet Corps program at The Cadet Corps Centennial: A Celebration of Leadership. This historic event, the largest gathering of the St. John’s community in school history, included more than 1,000 alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends of St. John’s.

At the black-tie gala, held at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC, St. John’s celebrated the 100-year history of the school’s military program, honoring those who founded it, the alumni who carried on the tradition and the students and

faculty who make it a thriving part of the St. John’s experience today. “The richness of St. John’s is the story of the Brothers and the success of the students and alumni. Having this many members of the SJC community in one place gave us the opportunity to tell the story of St. John’s today, to recognize alumni for their success and contributions and to celebrate the current students in the Cadet Corps,” said St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli.

The evening began with a ceremony inducting 35 cadet colonels into the new Cadet Colonel Society, the beginning of a new St. John’s tradition. From now on, each cadet colonel will be inducted into the society at graduation. Alumni Jim

Msgr. John Enzler '65

VADM Manson Brown ’74 (Ret.)

Gen. Stanley McChrystal ’72 (Ret.)

John Veihmeyer ’73

Page 34: St. John’s inducted 35 cadet colonels into the new Cadet Colonel Society at the centennial, marking the beginning of a new school tradition. Top left: At the gala, St. John’s announced the new CSM John McConnell Scholarship, named in honor of the man who has led the Cadet Corps program for the last 14 years. Top right: On Oct. 19, Joe Donnelly ’44 was the first to be inducted into the Cadet Colonel Society. From left: Jim ’72, Janet, Joe ’44 (seated), Joe ’67 and Gerri Donnelly.

O’Connell ’73, Joe Serra ’91 and Rich Sanders ’89 helped develop the idea for the society and organize the former cadet colonels.

St. John’s current cadet colonel, Genevieve Pennanen ’16, was the youngest member to be inducted, and Joe Donnelly ’44, who was inducted at his home before the centennial, was the most senior.

“I felt and still feel honored to have been inducted into the Cadet Colonel Society,” Pennanen said. “It was a humbling experience meeting all these past cadet colonels – even a couple who went to the same elementary school – and knowing that I am one of them. Seeing how successful they have been since high school gives me a positive outlook for my own future after St. John’s.”

The school also announced the new CSM John McConnell Scholarship, named in honor of the man who has led the Cadet Corps program for the last 14 years. “I am very humbled and honored to be among Sergeants Major Fisher and Hackett, who 36 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

both have scholarships in their names and were major parts of the Cadet Corps program and the St. John’s community,” McConnell said. “I would like to see the recipients of the scholarship live by St. John’s Christian values and carry forth the leadership skills they learned during their years in the program, incorporating those skills into their everyday lives.”

St. John’s honored four alumni with the President’s Medal, the school’s highest honor, at the event. It is awarded to distinguished alumni and friends of the school who have given extraordinary service to St. John’s or to the world community. The 2015 honorees are VADM Manson Brown ’74 (Ret.), Msgr. John Enzler ’65, Gen. Stanley McChrystal ’72 (Ret.) and John Veihmeyer ’73.

“The President’s Medal is not reserved for just St. John’s alumni. It is given to members of society that make a positive impact through their work and success. The recipients represent

Th e H u g h et t H a l l o f H o n o r s part of the Cadet Corps Centennial celebration, St. John’s unveiled the new Maurice G. Hughett Hall of Honor this fall. This museum-quality exhibit has transformed the lobby of St. John’s entrance on 27th Street into a living history of the Cadet Corps.

The Hall of Honor features a complete history of the corps, from the program’s founding in 1915 through coeducation and the state of the corps today. It honors the leaders forged by St. John’s program, including the school’s legendary military instructors and the cadet colonels who have proudly led St. John’s regiment. The exhibit also showcases artifacts collected throughout the program’s 100-year history, including uniforms, sabers, medals, honor cords and Regimental Band instruments. A 70-inch flat screen television displays archival photographs and other historical information about the corps.

Holding a special place within the Hall of Honor is a memorial to the fallen, which honors the Cadets who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. St. John’s has also included a special tribute to the McGovern brothers,

A

including the Congressional Medal of Honor and Silver Star that were conferred on the brothers for their service.

This exhibit is a concrete testament to all of the alumni, students, parents and friends of St. John’s who attended the Cadet Corps Centennial on Nov. 6. Funds raised by this event were used to construct the Hall of Honor and to support St. John’s scholarships that are awarded to students in the Cadet Corps.

The Hall of Honor was also made possible through the generosity of Kari and John Hughett ’65, premier sponsors of the Cadet Corps Centennial. The Hughetts chose to name the hall in memory of John’s father, Maurice G. Hughett, in recognition of his contributions to his country, to St. John’s and to Lasallian education.

The Maurice G. Hughett Hall of Honor was dedicated on Nov. 5 by Bro. Ed Adams, FSC. From left: St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli, Kari Hughett, Bro. Ed Adams and John Hughett ’65

37 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

St. John’s College High School 37

a vast range of people, personalities and backgrounds, including clergy, politicians, philanthropists, businessmen and people who serve,” Mancabelli said. “Of the alumni recipients, I feel we highlight those who live closest to the mission of the Brothers and St. John’s. They took their God-given talents to their fullest potential and used them to make a positive impact in the world.”

At the end of the program, Mancabelli shared the school’s master plan to transform its arts, academic and athletic facilities.

He then introduced Kevin Plank ’90, founder and CEO of Under Armour, who spoke about his own St. John’s experience. Plank also announced a $16 million gift to St. John’s from The Cupid Foundation, his private foundation, which will launch the second phase of the school’s master plan. The second phase will primarily support capital projects, including new state-of-the-art athletic facilities, tuition assistance and the Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership. To learn more about this exciting new phase for St. John’s, please read the article on page 15.

This historic event was more than a year in the planning, and St. John’s is grateful to the members of our community who generously gave their time and talents to assist the school. The Celebration Committee, chaired by Kevin ’82 and Jane Quinn, and the Centennial Committee, chaired by Jim Kernan ’70 and Michael Borger ’07, were instrumental in bringing this celebration together.

(See page 40 for a full list of committee members.) Kevin Quinn also gave a speech welcoming attendees and celebrating his own St. John’s experience at the centennial. Roger Whyte ’04 served as the event’s producer and donated the resources of his company, RJ Whyte Productions, to coordinate the gala. St. John’s is also

38 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Kevin Plank ’90 announced a $16 million dollar gift to St. John’s at the gala that will support tuition assistance, athletic facilities and the new Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Leadership. He is pictured with his mother, Jayne Plank.

thankful for the many generous sponsors who supported the Cadet Corps Centennial, as well as to all of the alumni, parents, students, faculty, staff and friends who attended this event and made it a true celebration of the Cadet Corps.

To see more photos and video from the Cadet Corps Centennial, please visit www.stjohnschs.org/cadetcentennial.

St. John’s College High School 39

C E L E B R AT I O N C O M M I T T E E CO-CHAIRS

KEV IN ’82 AND JANE QUINN BRO. MICHAEL ANDREJKO, FSC MAJ. GEN. RONALD ’53 (USMC RET.) AND JUDITH BECKW ITH

JOHN ’66 AND JAN MAGNOLIA TAR A RENZI MASTRO ’92 ROBERT ’58 AND MARY MCCLEARY

BRO. MARK BROWN, FSC

CHARLES MCGOVERN

GEN. MICHAEL ’55 (USAF RET.) AND V ICTORIA CARNS

CAP ’61 AND CHRISTINA MONA

LOU ’52 AND ANN DONATELLI DR. R. MICHAEL ’44 AND BARBAR A DOWE R AUL ’84 AND JEAN-MARIE FERNANDEZ TOM ’65 AND K AREN FR ANA (SJC BOARD CHAIR) BRO. THOMAS GERROW, FSC PATRICK J. HANNAN ’38 JAMES V. KIMSEY ’57

KEV IN ’90 AND DJ PLANK

CENTEN N IAL COM MITTEE CO-CHAIRS

JIM KERNAN ’70 AND MICHAEL BORGER ’07 (CC)

PROTOCOL

ALUMNI DIV ISION

LTC ANTHONY AQUINO ’88

PHILIP BR ACH ’85

MAJ. GEN. ERV LESSEL III ’75 (USAF RET.)

MATT CONWAY ’85

CSM JOHN MCCONNELL

CADET COLONEL

PAT DUNN ’03 CAPT. BRIAN JONES, USMC ’04

JAMES O’CONNELL ’73 (CC)

ALEX ANDR A KENNEDY ’05 (CC)

RICH SANDERS ’89 (CC)

BILL MULHOLLAND ’76

JOE SERR A ’91 (CC)

KEITH O’DONNELL ’86

ADM. DAV ID ’54 (USN RET.) AND BARBAR A ROGERS

PARENT DIV ISION

MATT RITZ ’97

DONALD ’61 AND MARY BETH ROTH

BARRY MILLER (P ’17) MICHAEL NADONLEY (P ’16)

MUSICAL DIRECTOR

BILLY ’54 AND BETTY SCAGGS

JOHN ROSA (P ’07, ’13, ’15)

GEORGE AND STEPHANIE TENET (P ’05)

ANITA STIGER (P ’16)

K ARL R ACINE ’81 GOV. THOMAS AND MICHELE RIDGE (P ’04, ’06)

KEN HAMMANN

LINDSEY W ILKES LOPRESTI ’98 AND EDMUND LOPRESTI

CENTEN N IAL SPO N SO RS PREMIER SPONSOR HUGHETT ENGINEERING JOHN ’65 AND K ARI HUGHETT

PRESIDENTIAL-LEV EL SPONSORS

CADET-LEV EL SPONSORS BB&T

SUMMIT GROUP MIKE ’71 AND DEBBIE HARPER

JOE ’76 AND NANCY BORGER

CENTENNIAL-LEV EL SPONSORS

M&T BANK PETER BLACK ’68 KC COMPANY KEV IN ’70 AND LISA CASSIDY

MANSON ’74 AND HER MINIA BROWN

THE DONATELLI FAMILY LOU ’52 AND DOUG ’79

JOE CAVATONI ’86 AND JANICE WAN

THE CLASS OF 1965

GREG LANDIS ’69 AND ANN LOGERFO

FERNANDEZ FOUNDATION R AUL ’84 AND JEAN-MARIE FERNANDEZ

STEVE ’71 AND ELLEN CONLEY

DONOHOE COMPANIES BOB ’66 AND STEVE ’74

PHIL ’54 AND MARION MUDD

HON. REV. TIMOTHY CORCOR AN ’63

THE HARLAN FAMILY

WANADA JOHN O’DONNELL

NICK DESARNO ’97 AND PAT DUNN ’03

ED ’59 AND K ATHY QUINN

V ION TOM ’65 AND K AREN FR ANA

JOHN ’66 AND JAN MAGNOLIA

KPMG JOHN ’73 AND BETH VEIHMEYER

KEITH O’DONNELL ’86 AND JULIE MCKENNA

THE O’CONNELL FAMILY QUINN ’70, JERRY ’71, JIM ’73 AND JOHN ’75

JOE ’86 AND SUZANNE PILKERTON

UNDER AR MOUR KEV IN ’90 AND DJ PLANK KEV IN ’82 AND JANE QUINN THE SCAGGS FAMILY BILLY ’54 AND BETTY, BILLY ’75 AND STEVEN ’78 WC SMITH CHRIS ’70 AND LISA SMITH

BRENDAN ’89 AND COLLEEN QUINN GEORGE AND STEPHANIE TENET JOHN ’65 AND PATTI THIEL

JOE DONNELLY ’44

LAWRENCE JACKSON ’71

JOHN ’71 AND SUSAN POOLE

TRIPP DONNELLY ’90

RUPPERT LANDSCAPING CR AIG ’71 AND PATTY RUPPERT

MSGR. JOHN ENZLER ’65

RON ’69 AND K ATHY SER ABIAN

ED GIBBS ’67

SERR A STONE JOE ’91 AND EDDIE ’99 SERR A

TERRENCE GIROUX AND BARBAR A KEEBLER FUREY, DOOLAN AND ABELL, LLP PATRICK GREANEY ’70

W ILLIAM ’73 AND ANN MARIE W ILLARD

Photo Gallery

Class of 1950 Reunion – October 17, 2015

Class of 1955 Reunion – October 3, 2015 St. John’s College High School 41

Photo Gallery

Class of 1960 Reunion – October 16, 2015

Class of 1970 Reunion – October 17, 2015 42 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Photo Gallery

Class of 1975 Reunion – October 17, 2015

Class of 1980 Reunion – September 19, 2015 St. John’s College High School 43

Photo Gallery

Class of 1985 Reunion – October 2, 2015

Class of 1990 Reunion – October 2, 2015 44 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Photo Gallery

Class of 1995 Reunion – October 3, 2015

Class of 2005 Reunion – October 3, 2015 St. John’s College High School 45

Photo Gallery

Southern California Alumni Reception – March 16, 2016

Dallas Alumni Reception – March 9, 2016 46 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Photo Gallery

At the Naples Alumni Reception, St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli presented David Freitag ’69 and Cap Mona ’61 with cadet coins for their service to the school.

From left: David Freitag, Cap Mona, Jeff Mancabelli and Christina Mona.

Naples Alumni Reception – January 13, 2016

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St. John’s College High School 47

Class Notes

Do you have news to share with the St. John’s community?

We want to hear from you! Submit your class notes and pictures to

classnotes@stjohnschs.org.

1963 CHIP KREZELL danced in French choreographer Jerome Bel’s piece “Ballet” in November at the Martha Graham Studio, Marian Goodman Gallery and El Museo del Barrio in New York City.

as the Sportscaster of the Year in 1996 by the Touchdown Club of Washington, as a Distinguished Alumnus by the University of Maryland in 2002 and for Distinguished Professional Achievement by the Phillip Merrill College of Journalism in 2002. In 1999, he was inducted into the St. John’s College High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

1970

MICHAEL LEE has been promoted to adjunct professor status at Wilmington University. Mike teaches a variety of online courses for Wilmington’s Business, Psychology and Organizational Dynamics departments. He has a bachelor’s degree in history from La Salle University and a master’s degree in human resources and labor relations from Rutgers University.

The University of Notre Dame Alumni Association recently presented the prestigious Harvey Foster Award to CHRIS STEVENS. The award is given annually to a former Notre Dame athlete who has contributed exemplary service to the university, their community and our nation.

Chris was introduced and presented with the award by classmate BILL FENTON, who is a member of the Notre Dame Alumni Association Board of Directors.

1964

1974

GEN. WILLIAM KERNAN (RET.) received the Gen. Creighton W. Abrams Medal at the 2015 Association of the U.S. Army National Convention in October. The medal is awarded annually to the individual or organization that contributed most to the advancement of the U.S. Army each year. Originally known as the President’s Medal for Service to the U.S. Army, it was renamed in honor of Gen. Abrams in 1975.

Railway Age magazine selected CESAR VERGARA, a noted railway industrial designer, as the recipient of the 2015 W. Graham Claytor Jr. Award for Distinguished Service to Passenger Transportation. The award is presented annually and based largely on a lifetime of achievement for an individual who has contributed significantly to the advancement of passenger rail in America.

1967 TIM BRANT was chosen as a recipient of the 2016 Marvin “Skeeter” Francis Award, which recognizes individuals for distinguished service to, or coverage of, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

For almost 30 years, Tim has covered football and basketball telecasts for outlets including Raycom, CBS and ABC Sports.

He retired as vice president and sports director for ABC7/WJLA-TV in 2015, and he will retire from Raycom after the 2016 New York Life ACC Tournament. Tim also reported from the Olympics, was the morning co-host on WMAL Radio for 10 years and teamed with Keith Jackson as the voice of the PlayStation video game “NCAA Gamebreaker.” He was honored 48 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

Mike Shreve ’77

1977 From PATRICK MCNERNEY: “MIKE SHREVE quietly leads a group called Bright Holidays, which provides Christ-

mas gifts to over 800 needy kids in the Duval County School system. He and his accomplices have developed quite the operation. This year I had the privilege of helping deliver the gifts to the various schools. SJC lives beyond graduation.”

1978 In October, THOMAS GRAHAM was honored with a 2015 Civic Leadership Award from The Community Foundation of the National Capital Region, Prince George’s County. These awards pay special tribute to civic stalwarts who are “moving forward together” to fulfill the promise of a vibrant and prosperous Prince George’s County.

1983 JOHN MADDEN was recently named as the 2016 Professional of the Year by the Middle Atlantic Section of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA). This is the highest honor paid to an active PGA professional for outstanding service and commitment to the Middle Atlantic PGA. “John is the consummate professional dedicated to the PGA mission. His integrity, demeanor and great personality have built a lasting reputation that has won him unequivocal respect from his peers in the industry.” John served as the 46th president of the Middle Atlantic PGA from 2014‐2015.

1987 Last summer, DEVIN HUGHES published a new children’s book, “Moon Patrol.”

The book is a space exploration adventure, focusing on themes of inclusion and diversity. “Moon Patrol” promotes the “story of us all,” ensuring that children’s bookshelves contain diverse, non-majority narratives of kids of all different races.

In December, he also published “Agents of Change – African Americans Coloring Book,” which celebrates the diversity, history and accomplishments of African Americans in North America. The book includes government leaders, military leaders, civil rights leaders, educators, scientists, artists and heroes of African American descent.

Class Notes

Chronicle after previously covering the Baltimore Ravens for 15 years, spending the last four years at The Baltimore Sun.

1992

FRED WILLIAMS was selected as the new center director for the Los Angeles Job Corps Center in downtown Los Angeles.

This particular center provides education services, vocational training and job readiness for 614 young people ranging in age from 16 to 24. The program is funded through the Department of Labor.

1991 AARON WILSON and his wife, Samantha, have moved from Reisterstown, MD, to Houston, TX. Aaron is now covering the Houston Texans for The Houston

KEVIN GIBBS was inducted into the Anne Arundel County Sports Hall of Fame in October. A baseball star, Kevin was a four-year varsity player for the Cadets, earning All-Met honors from The Washington Post for three years. In 1992, he was selected as the Gatorade Player of the Year for Washington, DC, and received All-American honors from USA TODAY. Kevin then played for Old Dominion University, where he was a threetime All-American and set a Colonial Athletic Association record. He played on the U.S. Junior Olympic team that won the silver medal at the world championships, and later made the senior national team and led the U.S. in batting average (.391), on-base percentage (.481) and stolen bases at the 1994 world championships. Kevin was an All-Star at every level of minor league baseball and also made the roster for the Los Angeles Dodgers before injuries ended his career.

1998 In 2015, MARQUES OGDEN published “Sleepless Nights: The NFL: A Business and Family.” The book tells the story of Marques’ early life and his football career at Howard University and in the National Football League (NFL). He founded a construction company at the age of 27, and when it went bankrupt, the NFL stepped in and helped Marques restructure his life. He dealt with his personal demons of gambling and drinking and went on to become a motivational speaker and marketing leader.

2000 JABARI WHITE was selected as one of HillVets 100 most influential veterans of 2015, which highlights the most influential and impactful veterans, service members and supporters of the

Kyle Brant ’04 married Mary Jane Foote on Aug. 8, 2015.

Pictured: Kyle Brant ’04, Mary Jane Brant, Tyler Brant ’06, Bridgette Brant ’04, Bubba Scott ’04, Harrison Beacher ’04, Matthew Borger ’04, Brendan Babbington ’87, Kevin Babbington ’85, Dennis Brant ’72, Gene Carlin ’73, Pat Brant ’69, Mike Brant ’65, George Kilroy ’65 and Jeff Cunningham ’80.

St. John’s College High School 49

Class Notes

Left: Members of the Class of 1970 got together to celebrate Christmas with classmates and friends. Right: Karen Hines ’00 and Sean McCash ’00 were married on August 9, 2015, at the Riverhouse at Easton Club in Easton, MD. Denice Deoliveira ’00 was also in attendance.

year. Prior to his current career as a national security advisor, Jabari was a combat-decorated former Army officer with eight years of service. As a military intelligence officer, he managed the operations of an all-source intelligence battalion supporting worldwide intelligence activities and was the special agent in charge of counterintelligence, responsible for a 31,000-square-mile area of eastern Afghanistan in support of the U.S. military, NATO and various U.S. government entities. He also served as reconnaissance platoon leader in the Army 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). Jabari planned and executed reconnaissance missions against insurgent groups; mentored and assisted Iraqi government and security forces; and negotiated and coordinated with Iraqi government officials and local leaders for increased tribal and ethnic cooperation. He is a recipient of the Bronze Star Medal.

strength and conditioning coach. A six-year member of the Nationals’ strength and conditioning team, Matt previously served as the team’s assistant strength and conditioning coach from 2011-2015.

2004

ALISON SLARK was selected as a 2015 captain of the University of Delaware women’s soccer team.

In November, MATT EIDEN was named as the Washington Nationals’ head 50 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

2006 In January 2016, the Catholic University of America announced IAN HANKINS as the new head coach of the men’s cross country and track and field teams.

2009 In 2015, LIZ SELIGMAN, who starred on three WCAC championship teams at St. John’s, was named as the new head women’s soccer coach at Wooten High School in Rockville, MD. After St. John’s, Liz went on to have an outstanding soccer career at Frostburg State University, where she earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees.

2012

Mike Toomey ’69 is the special assistant to the general manager of the Kansas City Royals, who won the 2015 World Series.

In Memoriam

James V. Kimsey ’57

T

he St. John’s community mourns the loss of one of its strongest supporters with the passing of James V. Kimsey ’57 on March 1, 2016.

A successful businessman and philanthropist, Jim received the President’s Medal, St. John’s highest honor, in 1998. He left a lasting legacy at the school with his lead $1.5 million gift to create the James V. Kimsey Science and Technology Center. His donation was a major part of the capital campaign that launched St. John’s renaissance.

The Kimsey Center is the gold standard of high school science facilities. Designed in consultation with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, it includes five state-of-the-art wet labs with oversized prep labs, three dry labs, six traditional classrooms and a computer lab. The two-story, 20,000-square-foot facility was dedicated on April 26, 2003, by Archbishop Philip Hannan ’31. From the Summer 2003 edition of the Scarlet & Grey: “Our vision for a bold new science and technology center needed another committed believer in education, a bold leader and another visionary. We turned to Jim Kimsey for assistance and to lead others to contribute to our worthy cause…To us, he is the man who made possible a new era in science and technology education at St. John’s.” “ His gift was unique. It was not just a gift to build a building; he was a catalyst for putting us on the cutting edge of technology early on.”

—st. john’s president jeff m ancabelli

“His gift was unique. It was not just a gift to build a building; he was a catalyst for putting us on the cutting edge of technology early on,” said St. John’s President Jeff Mancabelli. “It’s so much more than bricks and mortar. It’s about taking a risk, looking at the future with excitement and not with trepidation. It’s about giving back and helping others on life’s journey. He gave a gift that inspired a spirit, a real legacy. It’s not about a plaque or a building, but the spirit of Jim Kimsey, his drive, his philanthropy – that legacy will never be forgotten. He’ll forever be remembered at St. John’s.”

After graduating from St. John’s, Jim spent a year at Georgetown University before transferring to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1962 and became an Army Ranger. In 1965, Jim began two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his time there, he took over command in Duc Pho and finished the construction of an orphanage.

Jim Kimsey ‘57 with Bro. Thomas Gerrow, FSC, at the dedication of the James V. Kimsey Science and Technology Center in 2003.

For decades afterward, Jim continued to visit and fund that orphanage and its local school.

He returned to Washington, DC, and began working as a stockbroker. Jim also raised capital for several downtown bars, including Bullfeathers. In the 1980s, he became involved with a technology company called Control Video, which was reborn in 1985 as Quantum Computer Services. Quantum’s online service, originally called Q-Link, was later reinvented as America Online (AOL), a dial-up Internet provider that offered email, chat rooms, games and news. Jim served as AOL’s chairman until 1995, when he stepped down and became its chairman emeritus.

Jim was also an active philanthropist. In 1996, he started the Kimsey Foundation, an organization that primarily focuses on providing educational and cultural opportunities to disadvantaged youth in the DC area. He also served on the executive committee of the Washington National Opera, was a member of the James Madison Council of the Library of Congress and supported many DC organizations, such as The Kennedy Center, KIPP DC and New Leaders.

Although the St. John’s community is saddened by the loss of Jim, we also celebrate his life and spirit of generosity that made a difference in the lives of so many.

St. John’s College High School 51

Condolences Our deceased alumni, faculty and friends are enrolled as perpetual members of the St. La Salle Auxiliary.

The Christian Brothers and the entire St. John’s community offer their prayers and condolences to the families and friends of those who have passed. (Includes notices received through March 1, 2016.)

Alumni • • • • •

1943 1948 1949 1952 1952

Clarence Ruppert Arell Weaver John Klein Paul Devore Christian Dreyer

• • • • •

1953 1953 1953 1953 1954

John Bligh Cornelius Doherty Gregor Fennell John Libert Bertrand Cheseldine

• • • • •

1954 1955 1957 1959 1965

John Midolo John Lawton James Kimsey William Thompson Richard Ardoin

• • • •

1966 1967 1972 2008

William Madero Edward Vernon Michael Griffiths Jean Pierre Cassagnol

Family and Friends of St. John’s • Armstong, Tyrone, father of

• Costello, Mary Frances,

• Johnson, Roosevelt, father

• Pierangeli, Peter, grandfather

•

•

•

• Ruppert, Clarence Jr. ’43,

• •

• • • •

•

• • • •

Alexandra Armstrong ’08 Baker, Catherine Sarsfield, mother of Shawn Baker ’77 and Brian Baker ’80; sister of Matthew Sarsfield ’50, John Sarsfield ’51 and James Sarsfield ’67 Beaulieu, Kristine, daughter of John Brophy ’73 Bellamah, Frederick, father of Stephen Bellamah ’73, Timothy Bellamah ’78 and Andrew Bellamah ’80; grandfather of Stephanie Bellamah ’07, Andrew Bellamah ’09, Veronica Bellamah ’14 and Sophia Bellamah ’17 Blake, Turell, SJC security staff Bohorfoush, Barbara, wife of Walter Bohorfoush ’53 Brune, Nancy, mother of David Brune ’84 Bruno, Barbara, mother of Salvatore Bruno ’67 and Alfio Bruno ’70; grandmother of Francesca Bruno ’10 and Cinzia Bruno ’11 Cahill, Mary Frances, mother of George Cahill ’76 (deceased), Raymond Cahill ’80 and Martin Cahill ’86 Cassagnol, Jean Pierre ’08, son of Pierre Cassagnol ’74 Clementson, Aurelia, mother of Steven Clementson ’74 Cobb, Mary, mother of Andrew Cobb ’78 Conolly, Thomas Jr., father of Thomas Conolly ’69

52 Scarlet & Grey Spring 2016

•

• • • • • • • •

•

• • • •

wife of Walter Costello ’59 Crowley, Edward, father of John Crowley ’87 Doherty, Cornelius Jr. ’53, uncle of Scott Harper ’82 and Timothy Harper ’85; great uncle of John-Paul Harper ’16 and Timothy Harper ’18 Dollymore, Kathleen, sister of Francis Dollymore ’43 and John Dollymore ’46 Donegan, Dorothy, mother of Gerald Donegan ’73 Drake, Clare, mother-in-law of Richard Lawrence ’67 Driscoll, Robert II, father of Kathleen Driscoll ’02 Dunn, James, father of Daniel Dunn ’94 Font, Rafael, father of Rafael Font ’68 and Louis Font ’71 Gillogly, Laura, mother of Hugh Gillogly ’60 and Brian Gillogly ’68 Gilmore, Francis, brother of Marie Williams, former SJC staff; uncle of Bo Williams ’14 and Maggie Williams ’15 Griffiths, Michael ’72, father of Erin Griffiths ’01 and Michael Griffiths ’08 (deceased) Harrison, Marilyn, wife of John Harrison ’57 Jackson, Mattie, mother of Lawrence Jackson ’71 Jez, Regina, mother of Kevin Jez ’78 Johnson, Judine Bishop, mother of Eliot Johnson ’78 and Colin Johnson ’82

• • • • • • • • •

•

• •

of Kelli Johnson ’97 Keegan, Elizabeth, mother of Robert Keegan ’72, Sean Keegan ’80 and Patrick Keegan ’85 Kelley, Kieran, brother of Martin Kelley ’73 Kreischer, Arthur, father of Michael Kreischer ’78 and David Kreischer ’81 LaHood, Annalise, mother of John LaHood ’16 Leonard, Mary, grandmother of Kelly Leonard, SJC faculty Lyons, Carole Meyers, wife of Michael Lyons ’52 Madero, William ’66, father of William Madero ’88 Madoo, Christian, brother of Troy Madoo ’84 McHugh, Thomas, father of Thomas McHugh ’82 Meyer, Mary, former SJC staff; mother of John Meyer ’89 and Matthew Meyer ’91 Missar, Charles, father of Stephen Missar ’89; grandfather of Charles Missar ’11, Matthew Missar ’14 and Bronwyn Missar ’18 Moose, Charles, father of Charles Moose ’67 Morrow, Irene Lossin, mother of William Morrow ’62, John Morrow ’65 and Henry Morrow ’68; grandmother of William Morrow ’88; aunt of Harry Lossin ’62

of Irene Murphy, SJC faculty

•

• • • •

• •

• •

father of John Ruppert ’67 and uncle of Michael Guilday ’69 Sullivan, Paul, father of Paul Sullivan ’71, William Sullivan ’72, Stephen Sullivan ’74, Gregory Sullivan ’76 and Dennis Sullivan ’79; grandfather of Dorothy Sullivan ’17 Ugast, Mary, mother of Fred Ugast ’75 and Thomas Ugast ’76 Van Nuys, Mary, wife of William Van Nuys ’40 (deceased) Vitt, Barbara, wife of Francis Vitt ’56 Waters, Sr. Alice Patricia SSJ, great aunt of Brian Griffin, SJC staff, Connor Griffin ’17 and Haley Griffin ’18 Weaver, Arell ’48, father of Kevin Weaver ’75 and Robert Weaver ’77 Wilkinson, Patricia, former Mothers’ Club president; mother of William Wilkinson ’81 and Charles Wilkinson ’84 Wood, Donald III, father of Jonathan Wood ’02 and Timothy Wood ’06 Zellers, Robert, father-inlaw of Laura Zellers, former SJC faculty, and grandfather to Theodore Zellers ’07

Class of 1986 September 16 / Classes of 1961, 1976 and 1981 September 24 Classes of 1971, 1991 and 2011 October 14 / Classes of 1996, 2001 and 2006 October 15 To register and for more information, visit stjohnschs.org/reunions.

St. John’s College High School 2607 Military Rd., NW Chevy Chase, DC 20015

SAVE THE DATE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4 To see the full list of St. John’s athletes, coaches and teams that have already been inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, visit www.stjohnschs.org/sjchalloffame.