Standing Proud Record number off to West Point
Summer 2011
Xavier MOMENT
Timothy Tweedy ’82 looks on as son, James Tweedy ’15, is fitted for his dress code blazer on Registration Day. Tailor Marvin Goldman from Craft Clothes 2.
has fitted generations of Xavier students. XAVIER MAGAZINE
>> REGISTRATION DAY Two hundred fifty boys arrived at Xavier High School on March 2 and assumed their places in the Class of 2015. Registration Day is a significant occasion, as it marks an official commitment to Xavier. Incoming freshmen are fitted for their dress code blazers and choose a foreign language and other courses and electives. “It was a great day,” said Timothy Tweedy ’82, whose son, James Tweedy ’15, joins Xavier’s freshman class this fall. The Tweedy family has a long affiliation with Xavier that began with James E. Tweedy, P.E. ’48. Tim’s four older brothers, Edward ’70, James Jr., ’71, Thomas ’74 and Patrick ’78, are also graduates. “I was remembering the day my father brought me in for Registration Day,” continued Tim. “It was a nice thought process going on…it’s nice to keep the family tradition going.” James, who lives with his family in Floral Park, Long Island, is excited about continuing the family legacy. “My grandfather went there, my father went there and all of my uncles went to Xavier. I love the school and the idea of going into the city.” The strong profile of the Class of 2015 indicates that Xavier continues to attract some of New York City’s brightest and hardest working students. Many incoming freshmen live in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island, and the school continues to see a growing number of students from the Bronx and New Jersey.
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From the PRESIDENT Dear Sons and Friends of Xavier, I have always loved graduations: the academic regalia, the music, the processions, the awards and the speeches. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, the heart of the Church in New York City, was a most fitting site for our 168th graduation. As we gathered there on June 9, we celebrated the achievements of our 242 graduates. We celebrated the fruition of the hopes and dreams of their parents, teachers and family members. And we celebrated Xavier’s mission brought to life in these young men sent forth to transform the world. We are happy to share some of that graduation story with you. We are also happy to celebrate the life of the Regiment in this magazine. Be it terrific admissions to West Point, or the visit of Justice Antonin Scalia ’53 to address the Regiment at our spring awards ceremony, one need not look far for things to celebrate. More than 45% of our students today are members of the Regiment (a high water mark since 1971). Our triennial inspection once again earned our unit a Gold Star distinction. So the Regiment continues to provide a magis opportunity for our cadets: an opportunity to live more deeply and deliberately the values Xavier holds dear — excellence, faith, leadership, integrity and character. Few parts of Xavier life are more recognizable than the Regiment. Beyond its direct impact on our current cadets, the discipline, high expectations and accountability that are central to the military have shaped the culture of the school and are cornerstones of life for all students at Xavier. And while the Regiment is an important and distinctive part of life at Xavier, much has changed about regimental life even beyond the decision to make the JROTC optional in 1971. Our military science instructors are now retired Army officers and noncommissioned officers and no longer “What is constant, however, is the place of the personnel. The military Regiment in helping Xavier send forth young men active-duty science curriculum is now much more focused on civics and good of competence, conscience and compassion.” citizenship than explicit military instruction. (Even our strongest cadet would have difficulty assembling and disassembling a rifle!) And trying to find an armory for drill in New York City borders on the impossible. Armories for fashion shows, film festivals and track meets are much easier to come by. Some of these changes reflect changes in the Army’s approach to JROTC; some reflect changes in contemporary society, and some reflect changes in life at Xavier. What is constant, however, is the place of the Regiment in helping Xavier send forth young men of competence, conscience and compassion: young men who are prepared to be leaders for their families, their communities, their Church and this great nation. Looking through this magazine, I am filled with joy at the good work of Xavier in which we all share, gratitude for our graduates and the Regiment, and deep respect and thanks for the visit of Justice Scalia to Xavier, his fine address to the cadets which we are honored to share with you, and his long service to our country. Thank you for making the work of Xavier possible by your prayers and support. Be assured of my prayers for you and your families. Sons of Xavier keep marching… John R. Raslowsky
President 2.
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In this issue
>> Summer 2011
Summer 2011 Volume 14 Number 2 Xavier High School John R. Raslowsky President Michael LiVigni Headmaster Rev. John Replogle, S.J. ’51 Assistant to the President Joseph F. Gorski Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations Michael L. Benigno ’00 Director of Communications and Managing Editor of Xavier Magazine Editorial & Design Services Erbach Communications Group
8. 12. 18. 8.
HERE COME THE GRADS 242 Sons of Xavier graduated on June 9, ready, in the words of St. Ignatius Loyola, “to go forth and set the world on fire.”
How to Reach Us Xavier Magazine Managing Editor Xavier High School 30 West 16th Street New York, NY 10011-6302 e-mail: benignom@xavierhs.org To submit a Class Note, e-mail classnotes@xavierhs.org
12. DUTY. HONOR. COUNTRY. An unprecedented five Xavier graduates received appointments to West Point.
DEPARTMENTS 1. 2. 4. 20. 24.
Xavier Moment From the President News from 16th Street Maroon and Blue Class Notes
15. SUPREME HONOR FOR XAVIER U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia ’53 addressed the Regiment for the Spring Awards Ceremony. 18. PASSION FOR XAVIER Acts of generosity from all corners of the Xavier community for the 2011 Annual Fund.
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News from 16th Street A NIGHT IN THEIR SHOES
OUR CUP RUNNETH OVER Mike Petri ’02 (center) holds the coveted Webb Ellis Cup.
International and U.S. Ruggers mark Xavier’s 35th anniversary season When representatives from New Zealand, the International Rugby Board (IRB), USA Rugby and America’s national rugby team, the Eagles, visited Xavier on April 11, they didn’t come empty handed. To help mark Xavier Rugby’s 35th anniversary season and to honor the nation’s oldest high school rugby program, the ruggers brought with them the coveted Webb Ellis Cup, the trophy awarded to the winner of the Rugby World Cup.
Olympic athletes as rugby makes its way back to the games in 2016,” Petri said. “The opportunity for the next generation of rugby players remains. And your story, just like mine, will have started right here on West 16th Street at Xavier High School.” Xavier head rugby coach Mike Tolkin ’85 — the current United States national team’s defensive coach — introduced the visiting dignitaries. Also in attendance
“...your story, just like mine, will have started right here on West 16th Street at Xavier High School.” The event also int introduced the Knights’ current teams to a rugby giant and Xavier alum, Mike Petri ’02, the current co-cap co-captain of the USA Eagles national team. “Right here in this th room you may be sitting nex next to the next
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was Pete Seccia ’85, Tolkin’s teammate on Xavier’s 1985 national championship team and a member of Xavier’s Board of Trustees. Video from the Xavier visit will be used in promotional spots leading up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
On April 29, homelessness was brought to life for a group of Xavier students in ways much more vivid than just by passing sleeping individuals on 15th Street or listening to pleas from panhandlers on the subway. Students in the Arrupe Society — along with others from fellow New York area Jesuit schools Loyola School and St. Peter’s Prep — experienced what it would be like to try to get a good night’s sleep outdoors, with little more than just a cardboard box and sleeping bag. The Arrupe Society is a student group created in the spirit of Rev. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., former Superior General of the Society of Jesus who is remembered for his commitment to social justice. Through Catholic social teaching and service, members strive to become “Men for Others.” After handing out bagged meals to area homeless men and women and a presentation from Covenant House, Zachary LaRock ’12 said that the night sleeping in the Xavier Quadrangle was an eye-opening evening of service, solidarity and reflection. “So often, in a city like New York, we have a tendency to view the homeless as burdens. Through this experience, I learned how important it is not only to serve the marginalized in our community, but also to learn about and try to understand their suffering.” To share the experience of Xavier’s sleep out with more young people, Channel One News aired a segment shot by student reporters. To view the broadcast, visit the Xavier in the Media link at www.xavierhsalumni.org.
Adam Salazar ’11 sleeping in the Xavier Quadrangle.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE BEYOND XAVIER For the second year in a row, Xavier hosted a celebration in the Commons unlike any other: Xavier freshmen nominated middle school teachers who had an impact on their lives and gathered, along with their parents and guests, to present those life-changing teachers with Ignatian Educator Awards. In conjunction with the English department teachers, Michael LiVigni, Xavier headmaster, worked with Xavier The Ignatian Educator Awards, staff to select 25 student letters that best revealed the April 13. students’ heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the work of their former teachers. Each honoree was commended for demonstrating the personal care that a Jesuit education is known for, after the example of St. Ignatius. “Each teacher here has had a tremendous intellectual impact on his or her students, but what might be even more remarkable is the emotional instruction each has delivered — a less quantifiable, but no less crucial, human education that has laid a foundation for these talented young men to lead lives of consequence and character,” said Matt Thomas, assistant director of admissions at Xavier.
FACULTY HONORS Joseph Petriello inducted to Catholic Educational Foundation Hall of Fame
Xavier Headmaster Michael LiVigni (left) with Director of Ignatian Service Programs Joseph Petriello (right).
In recognition of his outstanding efforts and success in expanding and invigorating Xavier service programs, Joseph Petriello, Xavier’s director of Ignatian Service Programs, was inducted into the Catholic Education Foundation’s Hall of Fame. Under Mr. Petriello’s leadership, the Companions of St. Francis Xavier (CFX) service trips were opened to all four years of Xavier students who
have volunteered in places such as Maryland, Tennessee, Mexico and Alabama. In the past nine years, he has organized 36 trips, more than half of which he led or directed. Aside from founding the popular CFX Acoustic Coffeehouse fundraisers, Mr. Petriello also helped the Xavier community break participation records in parish-sponsored toy, food and clothing drives. The Catholic Education Foundation is a national, grassroots effort to preserve and expand Catholic secondary education. Its Hall of Fame honors outstanding religious educators who epitomize the value of Catholic secondary education through action, deed and care for students. Mr. Petriello is currently a doctoral candidate for a Ph.D. in Religious Education at Fordham University.
IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK Xavier band room acquires legendary gear Inspiration can come in many forms, and in the Xavier band room, secondhand equipment is imparting the presence of musical legends. The equipment was acquired last summer by Dr. Bill Pace, head of the Xavier Blue Night band, who jumped at the opportunity to purchase sound dividers (known as gobos), microphone stands and other items from a nearby studio liquidating its assets. For many years, the items at Chelsea’s Clinton Studios belonged to Columbia Records’ historic 30th Street Studios and can be seen in archival photographs and video being used by Dave Brubeck, Doris Day, Tony Bennett and Bob Dylan. While picking up the gear from the studio, Lawrence Schober ’11 had the chance to play the piano used on the original Miles Davis “Kind of Blue” sessions, which, he reported, had a sound that was still instantly recognizable. Dr. Pace hopes to frame some of the archival photographs for the band room in the near future.
Xavier musicians are inspired by equipment used by music legends. XAVIER MAGAZINE
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News from 16th Street FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS CELEBRATES 21ST YEAR
For 21 years, the Festival of the Arts has been a stage for some of Xavier’s most creative students to display their talents before the school community, friends and guests. “The Festival is our Turkey Bowl,” explained Denise Iacovone, chair of Xavier’s Fine Arts Department. “It’s important for our students to have a forum for their work. They toil literally hours on end without much chance to share their work. Artists can’t communicate anything without an audience, whether it’s a painting, a song, a dance, a piece of music or a poem.” The Festival of the Arts has become so popular that graduate artists who work in creative fields now serve as judges for the annual event. This year, Tom Kirrane ’99, Tim Farrer ’05 and Rich Scarponi ’00 returned to participate. This year’s event also included the second annual Student Film Festival, at which students from Mr. Chiafulio’s Moviemaking and Editing with Final Cut Pro class showed off their talents. “We want to raise awareness and appreciation of the arts,” said Mrs. Iacovone. “That can lead to an enjoyment that can last a lifetime.”
Art students were given the task of reinterpreting a work of a master artist.
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LOOKING MORE DEEPLY INTO POPULAR MUSIC Seniors in Pat Dormer’s government class were treated to a lesson in popular culture, looking deeper into popular songs from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s with distinctive messages both for and against the war movement. These are not the Justin Bieber or Miley Cyrus songs of today, Mr. Dormer pointed out. “Back in my day, music had lyrics that actually meant something,” he told students, several of whom wore their JROTC uniforms from drill earlier that morning. Students listened to “The Ballad of the Green Berets” by Barry Sadler and Robin Moore, as well as popular titles such as “Fortunate Son” by John Fogerty and “Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen. “It is important for the students to realize that they need to reflect upon the messages that they are receiving from society,” Mr. Dormer said. “We can use history as a great way to help them understand this important aspect of their education. As we take time to reflect on what is going on in the world, we can see how our faith is necessary to guide us.”
Pat Dormer’s government class examined the messages in popular music.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT Construction underway for new science lab It’s going to be a noisy summer. Construction is underway on a facilities improvement that will bring Xavier students a betterdesigned, more flexible science lab environment. Work on the project began earlier this spring on the third and fourth floors of Xavier’s Kane Building. The floors were gutted in order for work crews to implement the redesigned labs for the start of the 2011–2012 academic year. Xavier President Jack Raslowsky said the project would support interactive and engaged learning, a hallmark of Jesuit education. “The labs will be versatile and exciting for both teachers and students,” said Mr. Raslowsky. “The redesigned features will enable Xavier’s science facilities
Rendering of the forthcoming science lab.
“The redesigned features will enable Xavier’s science facilities to be a great asset, allowing us to be, technologically, on the scale of many colleges and universities.” to be a great asset, allowing us to be, technologically, on the scale of many colleges and universities.” Visit www.xavierhsalumni.org/
renovations for updates and progress on the science lab project and Project 15th Street, the expansion of Xavier to 31-35 W. 15th Street.
THE BULL & BEAR ESSENTIALS XBC and XBA join forces in alumni panel discussion Edward O’Callaghan, Esq. ’87, Jim Hillman, CPA ’75 and Christopher Conniff, Esq. ’84 joined forces to entertain and inform a large group of Xavier graduates working in the legal, investment and regulatory fields on March 31. Entitled, “The Bull & Bear Essentials: Heightened Market Regulation After the Financial Crises,” the event was sponsored by the Xavier Business Panel participants (L to R): Edward O’Callaghan, Esq. ’87, partner, Nixon Council (XBC) and the Xavier Bar Association (XBA), Peabody; Jim Hillman, CPA ’75, director and principal financial officer, Bank of a professional alumni and networking group that was America Merrill Lynch; Christopher Conniff, Esq. ’84, partner, Ropes & Gray. recently re-launched. previous roles, which covered white collar defense, For the past three years, the XBC has hosted international and domestic regulatory investigation and discussions to highlight the work of Xavier graduates government enforcement. who have distinguished themselves in the business and “The XBC has done a great job sustaining itself as media world. The legal panel united the two groups for a networking session based upon a topic of universal appeal a new alumni group, and the panel discussion model might be useful for Xavier lawyers as well,” said Shane — new regulations affecting business operations in light Lavin ’03, director of alumni relations. “It’s our hope that of the recent financial crises. gathering those two groups of alumni in the same room The speakers, moderated by Steve Vincent, Esq. will enable both groups to continue to flourish.” ’75, spoke about the work they do in their current and XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Grad at GRADUATION
the Grads!
Four years ago, members of the Class of 2011 entered the doors of 16th Street with much to learn. Following Commencement Exercises on June 9, Xavier faculty, administrators and staff, as well as parents, friends and family members proudly watched as 242 graduates exited the doors of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral ready, in the words of St. Ignatius Loyola, “to go forth and set the world on fire.”
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pen to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving and committed to doing justice. The 242 graduates who collected their Xavier degrees at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral on June 9 do more than exhibit the characteristics of the Graduate at Graduation, the profile developed by the Jesuit Secondary Education Association ( JSEA) that guides all aspects of the Jesuit high school experience. The Class of 2011 embodies the goals and ideals of Jesuit secondary education — in word, action and deed. Among this class’s accomplishments: a National Merit Scholarship Award Recipient, nine graduates offered admission to Ivy League schools, five new Sons of Xavier attending West Point or West Point Preparatory School, and 44 graduates who will matriculate at Jesuit colleges and universities that include Fordham University, Boston College and Loyola University-New Orleans, among others. “The success of the Class of 2011 in their college admissions speaks volumes about the quality of students we draw to Xavier, their commitment to scholarship, the work of the faculty and the dedication of our parents in providing opportunities for students,” said Xavier President Jack Raslowsky. “This class has represented Xavier extraordinarily well throughout the last four years. As we send them forth to the nation’s finest colleges and
The Class of 2011 XAVIER MAGAZINE
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The Xavier Regiment Color Guard
“Your diploma did not come easily. It’s something of real value, which I promise will serve you well the rest of your life.” 10.
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universities we know they will continue to make us proud and stay true to the values that Xavier holds dear.” “We have made it to the Promised Land,” said Salutatorian Ken JeanBaptiste ’11 in the welcome address. Recounting the long days of sports practices and extracurricular clubs followed by sleepless nights writing essays, this year’s salutatorian noted, Salutatorian Ken Jean“only the best was expected Baptiste ’11 of us.” He also credited Xavier for fostering discipline and self-motivation. “We did not work hard solely because our parents and teachers expected us to do so,” said Jean-Baptiste, who will attend Princeton University in the fall. “We did it also, primarily, because we had expectations of ourselves. We held ourselves to our own standards and followed them religiously.” When they fell short of expectations, JeanBaptiste continued, “We learned from them and tried to become better people.” Valedictorian Michael Kemp ’11, who is headed to Cornell University, recalled rehearsals with the Blue Night Band and hauling concrete to build homes in Mexico with Companions of St. Francis Xavier (CFX) as defining Xavier experiences. “Though it lasted only a week Valedictorian Michael Kemp ’11 I will remember for a lifetime the service trip to Mexico, as it allowed me to put into practice many of the Ignatian values I had learned over the years,” Kemp said. “CFX also gave us a firsthand experience of injustice and made us more attentive to the viewpoints of others. In many schools, students are only informed of international issues and problems, but rarely are they given the chance to see for themselves and to converse with the people directly affected by poverty.” Xavier’s Athletic Director Gerard Walker, who marked his 40th year as a graduate of Brooklyn Prep’s Class of 1971, delivered the Commencement Address. “Xavier is the real thing. Commencement Speaker Gerard Walker
Grad at GRADUATION Your diploma did not come easily. It’s something of real value, which I promise will serve you well the rest of your life,” he said. Despite the closing of Brooklyn Prep in 1972, Mr. Walker pointed out that as alumni of New York City Jesuit schools, he and the graduates share a legacy. “Prep planted all the seeds that we now refer to as the profile of the Graduate at Graduation,” he said. “We weren’t taught what to think, we were taught how to think, to be reflective, to be open to growth, to take positions and defend them intelligently. We learned to recognize justice, or the lack of it. That’s a Jesuit education, whether it’s 1971 or 2011.” This great legacy also comes with responsibility. “I know it’s a cliché, but we just don’t know what we have until it’s gone,” Mr. Walker concluded. “Forty years ago we all thought places like Prep and Xavier would just be there forever. I really envy Xavier alums who return for Beefsteak Dinners and Turkey Bowls, who work here or who send their sons and grandsons here. Keeping Xavier alive and strong is a responsibility for all of us. And as of tonight, you are as much a part of Xavier’s future as anyone.”
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(L to R): Chairman of the Board of Trustees Richard T. Nolan, Jr., Esq. ’83, Bene Merenti Recipient Janet Bonica and Xavier President Jack Raslowsky.
THREE AWARDED BENE MERENTI Xavier High School recognized one administrator, Janet Bonica, and two faculty members, Jerome Neuhoff and Rev. Louis Garaventa, S.J., with Bene Merenti Awards for 20 years (and in Fr. Garaventa’s case 40 years) of dedication and faithful service to Jesuit education. Ms. Bonica, who serves as Xavier’s registrar, holds the distinction of being the first female administrator, as well as longest-serving administrator. “She is the steadfast defender of our most important traditions and the institutional memory of Xavier,” said Headmaster Michael LiVigni, who announced this year’s Bene Merenti recipients during Commencement Exercises. Ms. Bonica has a B.A. and M.S. from Fordham University. Mr. Neuhoff has taught music at Xavier for 20 years. His passion and aptitude have made him a beloved presence among students, which, according to his music colleague Dr. William Pace, “has impacted a generation of men.” Mr. Neuhoff holds a B.A. in Music from Manhattanville College and an M.S. in Music from the Juilliard School of Music. Fr. Garaventa began his long association with the Society of Jesus as a student at Brooklyn Prep. He currently teaches history at Xavier, but has also taught at Fordham Preparatory School, Regis High School, Boston College High School, the Loyola School and Canisius High School. Xavier’s Dean of Academics, Luciano Lovallo, was a student of Fr. Garaventa’s at Canisius and said his former teacher “challenged me to move beyond my preconceived notions and, more importantly, was not afraid to call me out when I was not performing to expectation. He realized my true potential at an age when I was not mature enough to realize it myself.” The Bene Merenti award recognized Fr. Garaventa and his 40 years of tireless service to the New York Province.
Xavier graduates left Saint Patrick’s Cathedral ready “to set the world on fire.” XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Front Row (L to R): Thomas Boule ’11, Eric Gonzalez ’11 and Jonathan Kelly ’11. Back Row (L to R): Jon Noh ’11 and Randy Valencia ’11. 12.
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Since 2000, 15 Sons of Xavier have been offered admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point. This year alone, an unprecedented five Xavier graduates were granted admission to West Point’s Class of 2015 — four members of the Class of 2011 and one member of Xavier’s Class of 2008. In addition, two members of the Class of 2011 will attend West Point Preparatory School.
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ne of the outstanding graduates to join West Point’s Class of 2015 is Jonathan Kelly ’11. The journey from Bay Ridge to the “Long Gray Line” is something Kelly has wanted to embark on for as long as he can remember. After finishing what he calls the best four years of his life, Kelly feels he has the ability and responsibility to make a long-term commitment to the country. “West Point trains the ‘whole person,’ or, as the Jesuits say, ‘cura personalis,’” Kelly said. “The Academy not only offers cadets a course of rigorous academic studies, but also physically conditions each cadet and teaches him or her to be a true leader. I feel indebted to a nation that has given me so much and believe it’s my duty to return the favor in this way.” Maj. Jon Belmont, northeast regional commander for West Point admissions, says Xavier is one of a handful of northeastern high schools to routinely produce the type of well-rounded student the Academy seeks. “We are looking for a scholar, an athlete and a leader,” Maj. Belmont explained. “The Xavier graduate is usually doing very well in all three of those foundations that make a good cadet and a good officer.” Eric Gonzalez ’11 meets those high standards. Gonzalez found out about his West Point acceptance when his phone rang during cross country practice in Central Park. “It was my congresswoman’s office congratulating me, and here I am, in the middle of Central Park, jumping for joy and screaming. There were all these tourists doing double takes. It was a really great moment,” he recalled. “Xavier opened up a lot of doors for me with the JROTC,” he added. “I did the summer camp and realized I could live this way. And also with the class XAVIER MAGAZINE
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trips we did to West Point, it got us going and seeing about that lifestyle, as well. It helped me decide that I wanted to push myself to apply and hopefully be admitted.” When John Noh ’11 begins West Point Preparatory School this summer, he Jack Rosenhammer ’08 says he’s hoping to see a continuation of the camaraderie that’s made his time at Xavier so meaningful. Between being a proud member of X-Squad and quickly learning about West Point early in his Xavier career, much of Noh’s motivation to aim for West Point is rooted in his time on 16th Street. “Col. Campbell has been there for me every step of the way and it will
Point and as an officer.” Rosenhammer applied during his senior year at Xavier and reapplied twice after two years at St. John’s University as a scholarship ROTC student. Despite a competitive nomination, he was not granted acceptance. After spending one year at the Service Academy Preparatory program at Valley Forge Military College, he was awarded an appointment to the USMA Class of 2015. Thomas Boule’s ’11 interest in West Point came at an early age — his father, who has had a career in the U.S. Army for the past 25 years, graduated from the Academy, and living on Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn’s Army base, his family has always shared pride in the institution and military lifestyle. “The honor associated with West Point and service to one’s country, along with the highly active lifestyle associated with the Army, is very attractive to me,” Boule said. “In my opinion, military service is one of the noblest forms of service there is. Attending a Jesuit school has deepened my appreciation of service and my desire to help others.”
“I feel indebted to a nation that has given me so much and believe it’s my duty to return the favor in any way.” be difficult to ever repay him for what he’s done for me. Also, St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, was a soldier. His teachings made me want to not only be a soldier for the U.S., but also a soldier of Christ,” he said. The path has been a long one for Randy Valencia ’11. Both he and his brother, Raoul, set their sights high and completed the rigorous West Point application process, keeping one another’s tight deadlines. “When I told my friends and family I was applying to West Point, I received nothing but surprised faces,” Valencia said. “They respect my final decision to attend West Point Preparatory School and they know that West Point will help form me into a great leader and a great man, overall.” For years, Jack Rosenhammer ’08 had his eyes set on West Point. “Serving in this nation’s military is an honor and leading America’s finest young men and women is a privilege that should not be taken lightly,” Rosenhammer said. “During my time at Xavier, I learned to make tough decisions and prioritize my tasks in order to be successful. I knew that would help me as a cadet at West 14.
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Luis Cortez ’11 uses a Ben Franklin quote to summarize why he wanted to attend West Point: “Well done is better than well said.” The call to action has motivated Cortez during his time in Xavier’s JROTC as a Xavier Raider and member of the X-Squad. “These two teams have become my family away from home and it shows because these are the same people who will also be coming with me to West Point,” Cortez said. “The bonds that were gained through practice and competitions with both teams are my most cherished memories of Xavier and I’m proud of the fact that they will be able to continue at West Point.” After a campus visit left a strong impression on him, Cortez knew that West Point would enable his sense of service to others to thrive. “On one level, I’ve learned that only the bravest out of us are willing to serve others because it is such a heavy burden,” he said. “I’m willing to bear this burden because I would rather have something happen to me before anything happens to the ones I love.”
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(L to R): Michael N. Connors ’11, Cdt. Col., U.S. Supreme Court Justice, Hon. Antonin Scalia ’53 and Frank A. Ragusa ’11, Cdt. Maj.
Supreme Honor for Xavier A Gold Star unit deserves a Gold Star speaker. So went the thinking of two Xavier cadets who brought one of the most illustrious Sons of Xavier, Justice Antonin Scalia ’53, back to 16th Street as the honored guest and speaker for the Regiment’s Spring Awards Ceremony.
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ear Justice Scalia…the letters began. Last fall, JROTC leaders Michael N. Connors ’11 and Frank A. Ragusa ’11 set an ambitious goal: bring an American icon to Xavier High School for the Regiment’s Spring Convocation and Awards ceremony. One of the most illustrious Sons of Xavier, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hon. Antonin Scalia ’53, immediately sprang to mind. “Justice Scalia was renowned at Xavier for being one of our most esteemed graduates and we thought, ‘Why not invite him?’” explained Connors, who served
as Xavier’s Regimental Commander in 2010-2011. Connors and Ragusa, the Regimental chaplain, wrote letters updating Justice Scalia about a program he had called a defining part of his high school years and invited him to attend the annual ceremony. Much to the cadets’ astonishment, the Supreme Court Justice quickly responded. “I was more surprised than I had ever been,” Ragusa said. “For him to respond to two students is really just incredible. I think he really respects our passion for the Regiment and our passion for Xavier.” Connors and Ragusa, who are both from Bay Ridge, then began a regular correspondence with XAVIER MAGAZINE
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1. The Hon. Justice Antonin Scalia ’53 addressed the Regiment. 2. The Xavier Regiment. 3. (L to R): Lt. Col. Roy Campbell (Ret.), senior Army instructor, stood with Re alumnus of West Point, welcomed Xavier graduates to the ‘Long Gray Line.’ 5. Xavier President John R. Raslowsky 6. Xavier Headmaster Michael LiVigni. 7. Members of th
Justice Scalia, who invited a group of Xavier cadets to Washington, D.C. In February, a group of 10 senior cadets traveled to the nation’s capital, where they attended oral arguments for two Supreme Court cases and also met with Justice Scalia. On May 17, Justice Scalia returned to 16th Street and delivered the keynote address at the Regiment’s awards ceremony held in the Church of St. Francis Xavier. The Mass and awards ceremony were attended by
from the other Jesuit schools in the City.” During his Xavier career, the Supreme Court Justice served as commanding officer of the Regimental band, led the school’s speech and debate team and graduated as valedictorian of his class. In his address to the Regiment, Justice Scalia spoke about the legacy of Xavier’s JROTC and how it served as a visible sign of the patriotism of Catholic citizens. He also expressed the belief that military training teaches moral courage.
“Then, as now, military training was the distinctive tradition that set Xavier apart (and set Xavier men apart) from the other Jesuit schools in the city. ” Xavier students, parents, alumni, members of the Board of Trustees and other honored guests who included Col. Glenn Goldman, the ROTC brigade commander, and Col. Trevor Jackson, commander of the 43rd ALT of the National Guard. “Fifty-eight years later, it is the Regiment I remember most fondly from my years here,” said Justice Scalia. “Then, as now, military training was the distinctive tradition that set Xavier apart (and set Xavier men apart) 16.
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“That is why military training is not, and never will be, just one more interchangeable way for young Christians to develop good character or learn to serve others,” said Justice Scalia. “It is one of the noblest ways, and never let anyone tell you otherwise.” Justice Scalia’s visit was the capstone to a momentous year for the Xavier Regiment. Connors noted the more than 400-member Regiment underwent a formal inspection by the U.S. Army in April and retained its
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gimental Commander Michael Connors ’11, who passed the saber to 2011–2012 Regimental Commander Gregory Walsh ’12. 4. Col. (Ret.) Walt Landers, USMA ’55, e Regiment.
elite distinction as a Gold Star unit. Renewing the Honor Unit of Distinction (HUD) was especially significant, since it places Xavier in the top 10 percent of high schools that sponsor JROTC programs. The designation also grants Xavier’s senior army instructor the authority to nominate cadets for the nation’s service academies. “There have been a lot of things in the works this year,” Connors said. “The fact that the staff was able to come together and do such a tremendous job is a testament to their capacity for achievement.” Xavier’s Senior Army Instructor Lt. Col. Roy Campbell U.S. Army (Ret.) commended the Regiment for meeting the high standards of a Gold Star unit and for its initiative and follow through. “They stepped up to the plate,” he said. “They brought great honor to the school by bringing Justice Scalia here. Everything was done by the cadets with appropriate supervision and that was the objective. This program is an opportunity to lead.” Xavier administrators also stressed the JROTC program’s strengths in forming true leaders. “It is a way of living in the world as an example to others, grounded in morality and faith,” said Headmaster Michael LiVigni
during his remarks at the ceremony. “At its best, the Regiment is one more avenue for students to feel a part of something greater than themselves.” “Your participation on the JROTC Regiment provides a distinctive opportunity for you to embrace Ignatian values,” said Xavier President Jack Raslowsky. “It’s an opportunity for you to think more deeply about respect, honor, service and upon the foundational values of the Church and your faith. The success of Xavier and the success of the Regiment at Xavier will ultimately be judged not by awards or honors but by how well you make real the Incarnation, how real Christ’s presence in the world becomes through your words and actions.” Connors, who is headed to McGill University, and Ragusa, who begins studies at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business in the fall, say meeting and connecting with Justice Scalia is an experience they’ll always remember. “We just wanted a great speaker and to go out with a bang,” Ragusa said. “There were some great memories at Xavier, marching in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and CFX, but I think this really is the most remarkable moment in our Xavier careers.” XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Passion for Xavier Acts of generosity affirm the power of Jesuit education
The Rev. Vin Biagi, S.J. ’67 Challenge generated renewed support for Xavier High School.
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avier benefactors gave with passion to the 2011 Annual Fund. Pride in the institution and a deep appreciation for the lifelong influence of Jesuit education and values fueled acts of generosity from all corners of the Xavier community. The leadership of Rev. Vin Biagi, S.J. ’67, a Xavier Jesuit who influenced the lives of thousands of Xavier students through the development of Christian Service programs, inspired two anonymous donors to establish a giving challenge that bears his name. The Rev. Vin Biagi, S.J. ’67 Challenge has generated renewed financial support for Xavier High School among alumni, parents and other donors. This initiative challenged alumni and other donors by matching first-time gifts or the renewal of lapsed
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gifts up to $100,000. Gifts from first-time donors or those who hadn’t contributed to Xavier since 2009 were included toward the dollar-for-dollar total. Increases in gift amounts over the past year and second gifts in 2011 also qualified. Fr. Biagi, who was inducted into the Xavier Hall of Fame in 2010, was a natural choice for a named challenge to inspire donors. “This challenge has definitely resonated with alumni and friends,” said Mark A. Mongelluzzo, Esq., director of annual and planned giving at Xavier High School. “Fr. Biagi’s tenure has really been continuous from the 1960s through today. His presence at Xavier touched the lives of many different generations of students, and grateful Sons of Xavier and their family members have responded in kind.”
Advancing XAVIER
Within a few weeks of launching the challenge, 235 donors made commitments of more than $40,000 in matched funds. This included 75 alumni and friends who returned to donating after not contributing since at least 2009 (some going back to the 1980s). Another 145 individuals increased their gift over last year, including J.J. D’Albero ’13, who once again contributed his birthday money to the Annual Fund. “Giving to Xavier make me realize that if you try, you can really make a difference,” said D’Albero, who is a member of the JROTC and participant in this summer’s CFX program. Others have also demonstrated their belief in the power of Jesuit education. Last year, Roger Kirwan ’60 issued a dollar-for-dollar giving challenge to his classmates, which led to a record for the single highest reunion year class gift in Xavier history. This year, Fred Salerno ’61 made a pace setting gift in recognition of the Class of 1961 Reunion. Giving, he says, is an annual priority. “I feel a very strong sense of dedication to the high school, the Jesuits and the teachers who were involved at Xavier from my time,” Salerno said. When he reflects on the entirety of his education experiences — high school, college and graduate school — Salerno, a former member of Xavier’s Board of Trustees, concludes that “nothing was as meaningful as developing the discipline, values and learning experiences at Xavier. The ability to keep that dream alive; it’s something that has changed a lot of lives, and it changed my life.”
“If you care enough about a place that has given you so much, you have to step up.” Richard and Jeanne Ginnety P’86 deeply appreciate the lifelong impact a Xavier education had on their son, Christopher Jack Ginnety ’86. In fact, the couple has given to the Annual Fund every year since Christopher was a freshman. “Our son learned very good values at Xavier, which seems more important today than ever,” said Jeanne. “We’d like to see others get the same benefits of a Xavier education.” The Annual Fund is also a philanthropic priority for William Kelly ’91 because he believes alumni play an essential role in filling the gap between tuition and the actual cost of educating a Xavier student. “My
dad worked for ConEd,” said Kelly, a director for International Value Advisers, LLC, and member of Xavier’s Advancement Committee. “My classmates were the sons of police officers and firemen. Alumni stepped up for us so we could attend Xavier and we need to do the same for future generations. If you care enough about a place that has given you so much, you have to step up.” Donors say they hope their giving affirms the need to support Xavier each and every year. “It’s the responsibility of those who gained from the Xavier experience in their youth to make sure that others have the same opportunities,” Salerno added. “We received and we also must give.”
Submit Your
HALL OF FAME
2012
NOMINATIONS Xavier High School is pleased to announce that the President’s office is now accepting nominations for the Xavier Hall of Fame with induction to take place in November 2012. Qualifications for admittance require that the person be a graduate, a former faculty member or administrator. The nominee should have a history of exemplary service to others, his or her country and community in the tradition of St. Ignatius Loyola and St. Francis Xavier. For a nomination form, please visit the Xavier High School website and its Alumni page or call Mrs. Norma Piecyk in the President’s office.
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Maroon AND BLUE
Disadvantage: Xavier
The Xavier swim team finished 11–0, winning the division championship.
On landlocked 16th Street there are no home athletic fields, track or swimming pool. That doesn’t faze Xavier’s student-athletes or coaches, who continue to bring home conference, regional and even national championships.
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n any given day after school, Xavier studentathletes disperse across the five boroughs of New York and workout with their teams. Commuting to practice after a challenging day in the classroom can make for a grueling pace that would exhaust even the strongest subway warrior.
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Yet somehow, these dedicated Knights do more than just endure. They triumph, turning a landlocked campus with no home athletic facilities into an ongoing sports dynasty that has gained the school regional and national acclaim. Help may be on the way in the form of a public-private partnership Xavier is pursuing to establish some
home facilities in Red Hook Park, according to Director of Athletics Rod Walker. Mention “Disadvantage: Xavier” and Mr. Walker laughs, but adds that the challenge often breeds tough competitors. “That is us,” he acknowledged. “I think the coaches and the kids have made up their minds that they’re going
to overcome. The kids show up from day one with this attitude. It’s become kind of a tradition.” No one agrees more than Dennis Murphy, head coach of Xavier’s swimming and diving team. Murphy’s Knights split their workouts between St. Francis College in Brooklyn Heights and another pool beneath the Williamsburg Bridge in Manhattan. On a good day, it’s a half hour commute via subway to Brooklyn Heights. While the commute is an inconvenience, Mr. Murphy said it builds character in and camaraderie among his swimmers. “Our kids are not easily intimidated,” he explained. “They’re mentally tougher than some of the teams we face. They’re not coddled or babied. And traveling together to practice every day builds unity.” That unity helps Xavier’s teams to gel and, when combined with hard work and strong coaching, often leads to championships. For the past two years, Murphy’s squad has captured the New York Catholic High School Athletics Association (NYCHSAA) division championships and this year they were undefeated in dual meets. Other teams have followed suit. The Xavier rugby team claimed the national championship last year and is a perennial high school powerhouse. And this year’s track team shattered a host of school records during the indoor and outdoor seasons. Xavier coaches say the resounding success of the school’s sports programs is a testament to the dedication and tenacity of the student-athletes. “The boys realize that truly and wholly investing into something they
believe in can produce enormous and rewarding dividends,” said Mike Tolkin ’85, Xavier’s rugby coach. “We address that every year before the playoff/championship season.” Since its founding 35 years ago, Xavier’s nationally ranked rugby team has excelled and is a recognized feeder for the US national team, even with no hometown advantage. The team practices on Pier 40, which is on West Houston Street and the West Side Highway. While parents turn out to support the team, Mr. Tolkin said a home field would encourage more students and staff to attend games. “A home field would allow us a bit of an edge,” he explained. Xavier’s track team uses a hodgepodge of practice spots, depending on the season. Cross country in the fall finds the Knights practicing in Central Park or along the West Side Highway. As the weather turns colder, the track team moves indoors to an armory in Washington Heights and runs distance in Central Park. During outdoor season in the spring, runners and field athletes split practices between tracks at Randall’s Island and East River Park, both in Manhattan. During bad weather in winter and spring, throwers share the Xavier Commons with the school’s wrestling and rugby teams, while sprinters have been known to practice in school corridors. It’s a juggling act that keeps Head Coach Pat Dormer and his student-athletes, as well as other Xavier teams, on their toes. “We do our best to share with one another and we become very adept at improvising,” Mr. Dormer said of Xavier’s coaching staff. “It’s a part
The Xavier swim team using the St. Francis College facilities.
of life. It’s another challenge we overcome.” This year’s team did far more than just overcome. The team placed second in the NYCHSAA sectionals, a huge accomplishment for a school with no home track. With the soccer team practicing in Brooklyn, hockey in Bayonne, N.J., and tennis with no real home, it can take a scorecard just to keep up with who’s practicing where. But the school’s strong Ignatian influence, outstanding military programs and rigorous curriculum create a culture that fosters persistent determination. “Xavier naturally attracts students who thrive when faced with challenges,” explained Mr. Walker. “The kids come in with a mindset that says, ‘We’ll overcome these obstacles.’” XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Knights Continue their Winning Ways Soccer Hit the Field
Caption
Bryan Chao ’14 jumping hurdles.
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Varsity and JV soccer both had winning seasons and qualified to compete in the playoffs. Despite numerous injuries to key players and a slow start to the season, the JV team went 7–2–5 and advanced to the City Semi-Finals. With many key players returning next year, Coach Aidan Byrne said the team looks forward to continued success and hopes to win its third championship in four years. The Varsity Knights soccer team finished fifth in the NYCHSAA “A” division with an overall record of 9-5-3. Coach Joe Balsamo’s first season as Xavier’s varsity coach was a success, but the Knights came up short in the quarterfinals. While senior all-league selections Marco Fronterre ’11, Eddie Sullivan ’11 and Gianluca Masucci ’11 will be sorely missed, there is no doubt that Xavier will be a team to look out for next season with players like Trystan Montero ’13, Alessandro Binder ’12, Ed Wagner ’12 and James Kondrat ’12 returning as the team contends for a CHSAA class “A.”
Stronger with Every Stride
Investing in the Future
Last fall, cross country fielded a huge team and built momentum as the season went on. “We improved every week,” said Coach Pat Dormer. “We developed the ability to run as a pack, and all of these lessons came in handy as we stormed to a tremendous team performance at the CHSAA Championships.” Eliot Kaufmann ’14 went undefeated in All-League Championships as the sectional, intersectional and Jesuit Freshman cross country champion. During the indoor track season, Keith Mesidor ’11 was named Field MVP at the NYCHSAA Varsity Championships with a meet record long jump of 22’1.75”. Also at that meet, the shuttle hurdle relay team of Andrew Cheah ’11, James Kondrat ’12, Zach LaRock ’12 and Dom DiNiro ’12 set a new school record of 33:34; the team ended the indoor season by winning the Georgetown Jesuit Invitational. Xavier’s varsity and junior varsity outdoor track runners both swept to first place finishes at the Jesuit Invitational, held May 7.
The golf team ended up just narrowly missing the playoffs after amassing a record of 5–5. Several injuries kept top players Dillon Burke ’13 and Rocco Neis ’12 from key matches, but impressive performances included a sweeping victory over St. Joe’s By the Sea, a perennial championship contender. Captain Charles Van Cook ’11, who will be playing golf for NYU next year, Peter Hawkes ’11, and Dillon Burke ’13 are each awaiting the news to see if they are among the 20 best players in the NYCHSAA league in terms of scoring average. With a number of outstanding sophomore and junior players, as well as new talent coming from the incoming class, Van Cook said the team would have a good chance of competing for a league title within the next few years.
XAVIER MAGAZINE
The team finished with a 5–5 record and young stars like number-one single Justin Nadler ’13 promise more success in future seasons. Anthony Lacqua ’12 earned the tennis Block-X Award in May, as well as the MVP for the season. “A number of players on the team are young, athletic and consistent,” said Jessica Garcia, who also coaches Xavier tennis. “Even though we’re losing two seniors who were amazing leaders and athletes, we’re hoping to build on this season’s successes.”
Playoff Fever
Xavier sophomore Brendan McCabe advancing the ball against Dallas Jesuit.
Rugby Takes Northeast Xavier’s rugby team made a fast break for the National Championships in Utah once again this year, but fell to Jesuit Sacramento 50–27 in the final. The team built up booming momentum after an initial tough loss to Westerville early in the season and went on to sweep its way through Canada on the northern tour that took place over Easter break. In May, Xavier defeated McQuaid to capture its ninth straight Northeast Championship, and in the end, all four rugby sides had winning records, contributing to the overall strength of Xavier’s program.
The Xavier baseball team had an exciting run to the playoffs, finishing second in the Bronx/Manhattan Division with a thrilling two-game sweep against Stepinac, as well as victories against Fordham Prep and Molloy. This year’s team thrived by playing “smart ball,” — moving runners over as often as possible by focusing on aggressive base running. In addition, strong pitching and defense helped bring the Knights success. Two seniors — James McCool ’11 and Sean Meekins ’11 — will go on to play college baseball at Lafayette and Trinity College, respectively.
Bowling Rebuilds This was a building year for Xavier bowling. With only one returning bowler from last year, the new squad made quick progress. Nicholas Battaglia ’14 was awarded the Coach’s Award, while Christopher D’Anna ’13 earned Most Improved and Joseph Klein ’12 secured MVP for the season. The JV team also made improvements over the past year, with awards going to Christian Atis ’13, John Coughlin ’13 and James Jaffee ’12. “Xavier’s bowling teams have the talent and passion to be great in the next couple of years,” said Jessica Garcia, Xavier bowling coach.
Tennis Continues to Grow Tennis continues to be a very selective team at Xavier, with players trying out for a small roster of just 11.
James McCool ’11 at bat. XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Reunion 2011 More than 375 Xavier alumni attended a host of Reunion events May 13–14. The festive weekend featured school tours, a Mass in the Church of St. Francis Xavier and a Gala Dinner recognizing the 50-year Class of 1961. Thanks to those who attended!
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1. The 50-Year Class of 1961; 2. Chip Connell ’61 presents the Class of ’61 gift to Xavier President Jack Raslowsky; 3. Members of the Class of ’91; 4. Alumni from 1986 and 1991 with Fr. Vin Biagi, S.J. ’67; 5. Thomas Sipp ’91 and friends.
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Class NOTES 1943
1951
Rev. James Salmon, S.J., still teaches in the Chemistry and Theology departments at Loyola University, Baltimore. He recently edited The Legacy of Teilhard de Chardin (Paulist Press, 2011).
Attending the Xavier reunion this year for their 60th anniversary were Rev. Don Devine, S.J., Bernard Feeney, James Ford, Robert Kramer, Gerald Lawrence, Arthur McEwen, Paul Oliver and Rev. John Replogle, S.J.
1944 Bob Canale, Jerry Cruise and his wife, Pat, Frank Dwyer and his wife, Jane, and Leo Reilly met for a lunch on March 23 at the Snapper Inn in Oakdale, N.Y.
1945 Since his retirement after more than 30 years as school principal and teacher and 14 years as a college lecturer, William Reiner is devoting his time to working with the needy in Virginia. He serves as the president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society and a member of the parish council. In April, Commonwealth Catholic Charities named him Volunteer of the Year.
1947 Peter Smith writes, “If a freshman were to attend Mass every Friday in the school chapel throughout the school year, he became a Knight of the Blessed Sacrament. Since my freshman year I have tried to get to Mass every Friday through college, the Marines and 40 years in education. Since retirement, my wife and I get to Mass almost every day, but always on Friday. Goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life. I am part of a long blue line: my grandfather, 1868, my uncle and my brother, ’43.”
Rev. Don Devine, S.J., has reinstituted a Lenten mite box appeal at Fordham Prep, where he serves as faculty chaplain. Don reports that the students more than doubled last year’s total and the funds will go to support Xavier High School, Chuk, in the Caroline Islands.
1955 James Galvin has retired as the IBM general auditor and lives in the north Georgia mountains. He and his wife, Jane, celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on Feb. 7, 2011.
1956 August Vrondis is enjoying as much time as possible with his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Davey.
1957 Randy Cubero retired as president of the Falcon Foundation in October 20l0. To celebrate 50 years since his West Point graduation, on May 15 Brendan Battle joined Xavier classmate Rev. Tim Tighe at the Westchester Marriott for a special Mass celebrated for West Point Catholic classmates.
Brendan Battle ’57 and Fr. Jim Tighe ’57
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1950 Daniel McNulty and his wife, Pat, had a wonderful visit with Xavier alumni at the Florida reception held at Jonathan’s Landing in Jupiter, Fla., on March 3.
1960 Bob Scavullo was featured in the Saint Ignatius High, San Francisco, magazine as a year-round tutor at the school. In the article Bob said, “I love Jesuit education because it trains people to change the world. I see it here all the time at SI.”
1961 Due to a hectic travel schedule (three trips in three months to the East Coast from California and within the 10 days prior to the reunion), Rick Cumming could not make the May reunion. He hopes to attend next year’s reunion. Rick’s e-mail address is RCumming3@aol.com, if anyone wants to get in touch.
1965 Robert Posteraro, M.D., MBI, FACR, was inducted as a Fellow in the American College of Radiology (ACR). Approximately 10 percent of ACR members receive this distinction. He is currently an associate professor in Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center – School of Allied Health Sciences and a medical advisor and instructor at Convent School of Radiology in Lubbock, Tex.
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Dick Ryan marked the 50th year that he served as special TV and media consultant to the Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament. Dick also attended his 50th consecutive Masters Tournament this year. John Beglan writes that the class of l949 will do a repeat of last year’s annual class reunion at Spring Lake, N.J., for three days beginning on Sept. 20, 2011.
Unknown Soldier, made it to the Cannes Film Festival. Anthony is at UCF Graduate School of Film Making and is involved in two new films, and is a partner in a film production company.
Ray Flood and his wife, Joyce, will celebrate their golden wedding anniversary in August with their six children, wives and husbands and 14 grandchildren in Grand Canyon/Las Vegas. Ray writes, “It’s been a great ride!”
1959 Since retiring from orthopedic surgery in 1998, Anthony Sterling has authored a book, staged a play and written and produced three movies. The last,
John Sterling, editor-in-chief of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News, organized a session on personalized medicine and then served as moderator of the panel discussion for the BioEurope Spring Conference in Milan, Italy, in March. John also organized two scientific programs for the upcoming Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) Conference held in Washington, D.C., in June.
1969 Maureen and Bob Reinhart are proud to announce the weddings of their sons: Kevin Reinhart ’99 and Megan Podmore on Oct. 1, 2010 and Robert Reinhart ’94 and Erin McGinnis on Jan. 22, 2011. Deacon John Reinhart, the uncle of the grooms, delivered the vows. Kevin and Megan reside in College Point, N.Y.; Robert and Erin live in Astoria, N.Y. XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Alumni Receptions In Boston and six different cities throughout Florida, Xavier alumni gathered to reconnect with friends and alma mater.
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4. 5. 1. Jupiter reception on March 3; 2. Vero Beach on March 2; 3. Fort Lauderdale on March 1; 4. Marco Island on March 23; 5. Tampa on March 24; 6. Fort Myers on March 22; 7. Xavier President Jack Raslowsky (middle) with Gregory Brecht ’83 (left) and Francis Spinella ’83 (right) at Boston Reception on April 7; 8. Boston Reception on April 7.
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Class NOTES
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avier High School went on the road in March and April with Alumni Receptions held in Florida and Boston. In Florida, alums gathered in six different cities that included: Fort Lauderdale on March 1, hosted by Rich Battaglino ’67; Vero Beach on March 2, hosted by Ann and Jim Gallagher ’54; Jupiter on March 3, hosted by Faith and Peter Corcoran ’46, Maureen and Charlie Walsh ’49 and Bill O’Mara ’49; Fort Myers on March 22, hosted by Bob Stolarik ’47; Marco Island on March 23, hosted by Annette and Larry Garafola ’58 and Tampa on March 24. The Boston reception was held on April 7 at the Boston College Club.
Greg Belli is teaching Spanish to fiveyear-olds in the daytime and 25-year-old graduate students in the evening. His vacations are spent camping.
1970 Denis Kelly is the editor of the EchoesSentinel, a newspaper covering Long Hill Township and Watchung, N.J. He recommends his blog, “By Dennis Kelly” at www.echoes-sentinel.com.
1973 Dr. Victor Vallo, Jr., is the new chair of the Department of Music at Georgia College and State University at Milledgeville, Ga. Victor is also a proud granddad with the birth of his grandson, Vincent Vallo, Jr.
1976 Peter Sciabarra was thrilled to attend the President’s Council Dinner last October, where his mother, May, was honored as the longest tenured parent donor to Xavier — 50 years.
1978 Sean Murphy reports that his oldest daughter, Morgan, will be attending Georgetown University next year. Sean graduated from Georgetown in 1982. Sean’s wife, Eileen Cleary, graduated from Georgetown in 1985.
1979 Edwardo Sarduy has recently relocated with his family to Lewes, Del., and is now working for Staffmark as an account manager.
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Rico Calero accepted a position as executive vice president with Umpqua Holdings Corp., Portland, Ore. He and his family are moving there from Dallas this summer.
the Tradition Continues TURKEY BOWL 2011 November 24
Bob Scavullo ’60 has been recognized for his dedication to students.
MAN FOR OTHERS Bob Scavullo ’60 was featured in Genesis, the alumni magazine of Saint Ignatius College Preparatory, San Francisco. Since 2008, Scavullo has dedicated countless hours toward tutoring students in both academic and life skills in the Magis program at Saint Ignatius. “They learn to trust me,” the Xavier alum told Genesis magazine. “The cura personalis comes in. I’m Uncle Bob to them, not one of their teachers looking to grade them, and they confide in me.” Scavullo insists that he works on a first-name basis with the students and as a result, he’s been able to continue using the communication skills that helped him have a successful 35-year career in the software business at IBM and other smaller companies. In addition, his availability allows him to work around the complicated schedules of his students. This is not the first time Scavullo has been recognized for his outstanding work with young people. After his retirement in 2002, he spent five years volunteering with students with learning difficulties at Gateway School, also in San Francisco. For his efforts, he was awarded the San Francisco School Volunteer of the Year Award, presented by Mayor Gavin Newsom. XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Sons of XAVIER 1985 Andrew Israel and at least a dozen other Xavier rugby alums were in Manassas, Va., with the Rockaway Rugby Club on May 21 to compete in the USA Rugby Men’s D3 Sweet Sixteen playoffs.
1986 Thomas Fletcher is a 17-year veteran of the Albany, N.Y., Police Department and hopes to see many at the 25th reunion.
1987 Ed O’Connell recommends the Sloppy Tuna Restaurant and Café, Montauk, N.Y., a restaurant run by Drew Doscher ’87. Fr. Dan Gatti ’59 in his inaugural jump over Lakehurst, N.J.
LEAP OF FAITH Rev. Dan Gatti, S.J. ’59 took a leap of faith recently, as an early celebration of his 70th birthday. That’s right — Fr. Gatti joined the Golden Knights, the U.S. Army Parachute Team for a skydiving session 13,000 feet over Lakehurst, N.J. The May 5 tandem jump propelled the former Xavier High School president to more than 120 miles-per-hour, and Fr. Gatti said he knew he was in for a thrill. “I felt a strong sense of faith and trust in the U.S. Army, its plane, its equipment and its personnel; trust that all elements would work together for a successful jump!” After a 60-second free fall and a few more minutes of descent time, Fr. Gatti landed at the Army Joint Base relatively unscathed, aside from a pair of sore knees. “I felt euphoric,” he said. “Extremely happy to be able to do something exciting I had never done before. But what impressed me most was the caliber of the Army personnel I met. Not for nothing is their current motto Army Strong!”
John Brenkovich, CFP®, ChFC®, AAMS® established a new office in Westchester, N.Y., for his financial planning practice, Brenkovich Financial Planning, www. bfmplan.com. His practice focuses on investment, retirement and insurance planning for individuals and businesses.
1988 Frank Arlia runs a prominent real estate office on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. His focus is on Niche Rental Real Estate on the Upper West Side, but he does business all over the city for referrals in rentals and sales. He is open to any clientele, rental, sales and commercial real estate, and is presently looking to expand.
1989 George Brennan writes to congratulate the Class of 2011 on their impressive college admissions and to welcome them to the alumni community. He celebrates the second official release of original music in May titled George Brennan-Believe. All of the songs were written and recorded by George and are available at CDBaby. com. There is a mention of Xavier and The Blue Night Band on the album cover. His first music video to the single “New Dad” is available on YouTube and George’s three children are the subjects of the montage. The direct link for CDBaby.com is www.cdbaby.com/cd/ georgebrennan.
1990 Anton Parmach is now serving with the United States Secret Service in Washington, D.C.
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Richard Grani and his wife, Allesandra, and their three children moved to 27 Adelaide Street, Rye, N.Y.
1994 Dr. Robert Parmach is now serving as freshman dean at Fordham University.
1997 John Murillo has left his position at International Bond and Marine, Hoboken, N.J., and is now an ocean marine underwriter with CNA on Wall Street.
1999 Thomas Concert has been promoted to manager of nursing informatics at New York Hospital, Queens, N.Y. He will be graduating with his MA in Nurse Executive and Healthcare Management in December from Long Island University. Robert McGee is still living in Virginia Beach, Va. He and his wife, Rachel, are expecting their first child July 15. Rachel works in the physical therapy field. Robert is working on his Master’s in Education and is still coaching football at Ocean Lafes High School in between a full-time position with the U.S. Defense Department.
2002 Sanjeevan Iswara works at Morgan Stanley as an associate in strategy with a focus in instrument banking and wealth management.
2003 After completing his M.S. at Temple University, Robert Howley elected to continue his studies, pursuing his Ph.D. in financial engineering at Lehigh University.
2004 Stephen Umschweif has become a New York State licensed CPA and works at KPMG, LLP, in New York, N.Y.
2005 Jacob Fountain returned safely from Afghanistan and is now attending graduate school at the Citadel. Jacob is studying history.
2007 Seamus Campbell graduated from Fordham University with a B.S. in Information Science.
Class NOTES 2008 Kevin Keenan recently completed an internship in Washington, D.C., with USNCB INTERPOL Washington in the terrorism and violent crimes division. He is now applying for an internship with the United States Secret Service Boston Field Office.
2009 Peter Kourestos is studying history and Latin American and Latino Studies as a sophomore at Loyola University, Md. He is co-founder and president of Loyola’s first Hellenic Cultural Society and is serving annually with Project Mexico. Nicholas Pope is enjoying the end of his sophomore year at Holy Cross College. This summer he will study in St. Petersburg, Russia, and will be a resident advisor (RA) at Holy Cross in the fall. Seamus Kelly and his Cal teammates were in Salt Lake City the weekend of May 20–21, where they played Brigham Young in the inaugural UAS Rugby College Premier Division Championship game.
Mike Jusczak, Sean Carly ’10 and Pat Coleman ’10 traveled overseas with the USA Men’s Junior All-American team. They completed a five-day training camp in England in preparation for the Junior World Rugby Trophy tournament held in Tblisi, Republic of Georgia, in May. Ray Furlong, a business major at Ursinus College, Penn., is also playing baseball and swimming for the Bears. This summer he is working as a marketing intern at CNBC.
2010 Timothy Hopkins has finished his training in the Army and is an airborne ranger assigned to the first Ranger Battalion, Charlie Company. Michael Kaye reports that he is doing well at Saint Joseph’s University, Philadelphia, which he calls, “a great place,” though he misses his Xavier brothers. Peter Orphanides completed his freshman year at Syracuse University and will reenter as a sophomore this fall.
NAMED SCHOLARSHIP RECEPTION
Throughout the academic year, Xavier’s scholarship recipients correspond with benefactors who create named funds. At the Named Scholarship Reception, they have the opportunity to meet and thank generous donors in person. This year’s event was held in April at the Meditz Family Learning Center at Xavier. Above (L to R): Patrick Kilgallen P’ 12, ’13, Ryan Kilgallen ’13, recipient of the Lt. Kevin C. Dowdell, FDNY Memorial Scholarship, Patty Ford, Patrick Dowdell ’01, Mary Ellen Dowdell P’01, ’02, Mike Ford ’63, Patrick Kilgallen ’12, recipient of the Lt. Michael V. Ford, FDNY Memorial Scholarship, and John Burke P’84, ’87, ’91, ’94. Left: Anny Cen P’13 (left) and Eric Kong ’13 (right), the recipient of the Jesuit Community Scholarship, with Rev. Gerald Chojnacki, S.J.
John Vanore ’72 in Afghanistan.
ON A MISSION John Vanore ’72 spent 23 years in the Navy, in both active and reserve duty, and working for the Defense Intelligence Agency. He followed events in Afghanistan for decades. But in all his service, he’d never been to a combat zone. Earlier this year as a civilian, Vanore took the plunge and began a six-month volunteer rotation in Kabul, Afghanistan, as chief of the Knowledge Management Cell within the Information Dominance Center at IJC, the ISAF Joint Command. His work focuses on the proper alignment of people, processes and technologies to ensure that current and future IT systems allow information to be highly available when needed. “When all necessary information can be understood and applied to decision making, it becomes knowledge. Our task here is complicated by the huge proliferation of IT systems at various classification levels and foreign disclosure issues arising from the NATO and non-NATO coalition forces we work with,” said Vanore. “Volunteering was an emotional issue for me,” Vanore told Xavier in March, shortly before his deployment. “I want to ‘do my part for the cause,’ so to speak. My wife put it best when explaining to my mother why I came over here; she explained that my entire career in uniform and the intelligence community has led me to this point. I’ve done all the desk work, now it’s time to go downrange and make my mark in the field.” XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Sons of XAVIER
XAVIER TACKLES SOCIAL MEDIA Subscribers to Xavier’s popular E-News may have already noticed some of the new, social media icons present on each week’s digital edition. If you haven’t taken a look at some of the great, interactive web resources Xavier’s been using, it’s not too late. This year, thanks to the volunteer services of Frank Mosco ’89 and MommaMedia, Xavier became the first Jesuit high school to employ a customized Facebook “Welcome” page, and the school uses social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter to promote and publicize events, news and more. Xavier has also used sites such as Issuu.com, Photobucket and YouTube to bring photo, video and music features to enhance more than 300 digital news items published this year on the school and alumni websites. Visit www.xavierhsalumni.org/officiallinks to get started and “Like” us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/xavierhs! To sign up for Xavier’s weekly E-News, e-mail benignom@xavierhs.org.
Xavier Grads in the
Blogosphere Check out these great blogs and Websites of Xavier grads, and check the E-News for more on the network of Xavier online media masters! Matt Filippi’s ’11 blog, Yankeestalkblog.blogspot.com features great Yankees’ news and commentary. Dylan Kitts ’09 frequently contributes high school sports articles to the NY Post. Chris Chavez’s ’11 sports articles on BleacherReport.com have had close to 500,000 reads.
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Class NOTES
Mileposts
In Memoriam Alumni Joseph C. Navarra ’26 3/14/1995
Robert M. Goodwin ’51 1/30/2011
Richard P. Walsh ’28 4/16/2006
Henry G. Rossini ’51 3/9/2011
Francis X. Grant ’31 9/15/1993
Donald P. Medler ’52 5/14/2011
Vincent J. Sharkey ’31 8/13/2001
Russell F. Schuck ’52 8/25/2005
John P. Tuzio ’31 3/28/1995
William C. Tribert ’52 4/4/2011
James E. Campbell ’32 7/29/2007
Edwin T. Quain ’54 2/3/1995
Mario L. Sanandres, D.C. ’32 3/31/2000
Gus P. Bevona ’58 9/21/2010
John M. Stanton, Ph.D. ’32 1/12/1997
Brian E. Comerford, Esq. ’59 3/4/2011
John M. Trapp ’32 12/29/2009
Robert Murray ’59 9/6/2010
Daniel V. Duff ’34 8/3/2010
Michael A. Carpenter ’60 4/28/2006
Paul C. Fagan, M.D. ’34 12/10/2009
Col. James A. Kelly, Jr., USA (Ret.) ’60 2/19/2011
George J. Tasso ’35 5/19/1999
Augustine F. Jehle ’61 2/13/2011
Robert L. Calzetta ’37 6/15/2010
William A. Marion, Ph.D. ’61 11/21/2010
Engagements
George J. Kimmerling ’37 11/29/2010
Francis G. Duffy ’62 3/11/2011
Robert Citelli ’73 is engaged to be married on Oct. 1, 2011, to Claudia Guccione at Saint Mary’s Church, Los Gatos, Calif.
James R. McElhinney ’37 11/20/2000
Donald R. Eakin ’62 3/11/2011
Raymond F.X. Harty ’38 2/25/2005
James G. Nealis, M.D. ’62 5/5/2011
Charles E. Walsh ’38 12/16/2009
Robert J. Yankow ’62 8/8/2010
Albert B. Gerrity ’40 12/11/2010
Dennis J. Redington ’63 1/5/2011
Joseph M. O’Connor, M.D. ’42 4/4/2011
Col. Thomas C. Suermann, USA ’64 3/9/2011
D. Howard Cashman ’45 P’80 ’83 12/23/2009
John J. O’Shea ’66 2/12/2011
Albert C. Conner ’46 6/2/2003
Joseph A. Nardiello ’80 5/10/2002
Peter J. Keenan ’46 4/2/2011
Casey O’Brien ’96 3/10/2011
James Sullivan ’82 was married to Teresa Concepcion Ramirez on Sept. 12, 2009.
Thomas J. McMahon ’47 2/6/2011
Daniel E. Mejia ’96 3/7/2011
Robert Reinhart ’94 was married to Erin McGinnis on Jan. 22, 2011.
Alfred M. Masini ’48 11/29/2010
Parents
Owen W. Cahill ’49 1/15/2011
Mr. Dante J. Baietto P’71 5/14/2011
David A. Draper, M.D. ’49 1/14/2011
Mrs. Kathleen Beckett P’77 9/5/2009
Edward S. Larkin ’49 7/29/2010
Mrs. Agatha Langella P’75 3/1/2011
John W. O’Brien ’49 12/29/2010
Mrs. Maureen Breheny P’85 10/22/2010
Dirick C. Overhamm ’50 11/13/2010
John Gallagher P’88 8/3/2009
Charles F. Brennan, Esq. ’51 2/9/2011
Pedro Medina P’89 3/11/2011
Samuel J. Donnelly, Esq. ’51 1/11/2011
Mrs. Rosemary Gallagher P’10 2/2/2011
Births Lynn and John Ryan ’87 proudly announced the birth of his daughter, Mairead Buckley Ryan, born on Jan. 27, 2011. Kristen and David Rodriguez’ 97 recently welcomed their first child, Rocco Rodriguez, on March 17, 2011. Megan and Joe Heegan ’87 welcomed their first child, Aiden Joseph, on Dec. 12, 2010. Christine and Angelo Ortiz ’87 recently welcomed a son, Lucas. He joins his sisters, Noella, 9, and Isabella, 2.
Brian Loesch ’78 announces his engagement to Erica Medina. They will be married at Epiphany Church, New York City, on Oct. 9, 2011.
Marriages
Kevin Reinhart ’99 was married to Megan Podmore on Oct. 1, 2010. Robert Howley ’03 was married to Cassandra Hunnicutt, CPA, on April 11, 2011.
Joseph P. Seguljic ’47 2/17/2011
XAVIER MAGAZINE
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Back STORY
Hope Rising
Like many downtown NYC institutions, Xavier was hit hard by 9/11. Our community lost 10 cherished alumni, as well as 40 others in our family. Yet, as we mourned, we realized that hope for the future of our country lay in the next generation of young Americans. With eyes fixed on the future, generous graduates and other benefactors established eight named scholarships, The Michael R. Andrews ’85 Memorial Scholarship, The Matthew J. Burke ’91 Memorial Scholarship, The James R. Coyle ’93 Memorial Scholarship, The Lt. Kevin C. Dowdell, FDNY P’01, ’02 Memorial Scholarship, The Christopher Hanley ’84 Memorial Scholarship, The Sean T. Lugano ’91 Memorial Scholarship, The FF Jimmy Riches, F.D.N.Y. ’89
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Memorial Scholarship and The John J. Ryan ’74 Memorial Scholarship, to honor the legacy of our lost alumni and members of the Xavier community. Our hope is that the 30 students who have benefited from those scholarships over the past decade — as well as all of our Xavier graduates — will work to foster peace, faith, love and justice in our world. We will never forget those we lost on Sept. 11. The Xavier community and the Church of St. Francis parish will mark the 10-year anniversary with a Mass of Remembrance and reception on Sept. 9. Together, we face our future with strength, knowing that Xavier men stand ready to carry the torch of freedom in honor of our fallen brothers.
September 11 Xavier Remembers John “J.R.” Ryan ’74 Edmund McNally ’78 Christopher Hanley ’84 Michael Andrews ’85 John Farrell ’87 James Riches ’89 Matthew Burke ’91 Sean Lugano ’91 James Coyle ’93 Charles Heeran ’96 Robert Twomey Lt. Kevin C. Dowdell Gus Economos Captain Timothy Stackpole Eugenia Piantieri Mrs. Gene Springer Moira Smith Arnold Lim Mark Hindy Thomas Cullen Michael Armstrong Giovanna “Gennie” Gambale Chrisopher Grady Jackie Sayegh Laura Longing Caesar Alvera Chris Alvera Leon Smith, Jr.
Mass of Remembrance Friday, Sept. 9 5:30 pm Church of St. Francis Xavier Reception to follow
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Alumni News Calendar
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Rockaways Reception
July 26
Fairfield County Reception
July 27
Suffolk County Reception
Aug. 8
Drinks at Xavier Reception
Aug. 9
Northwest Jersey Reception
Aug. 10
Nassau County Reception
Aug. 11
Class of 2011 Send-Off
Aug. 16
Cape Cod Reception
Aug. 27
XS/LA Reception
Sept. 28
President’s Council Dinner
Oct. 12