ALUMNEWS OF XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL
FALL 2003
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL Rev. Daniel J. Gatti, S.J. ’59 President Rev. David S. Ciancimino, S.J. ’77 Headmaster OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI RELATIONS Joseph F. Gorski Director Debra Ryan Director of Annual Giving William A. Reidy ’94 Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving
XAVIER ALUMNEWS Fall 2003/Vol. 7 No. 1
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Rodger Shay A member of the Class of 1954, Rodger Shay has set a wonderful precedent with a generous commitment to Xavier’s recently announced capital campaign, Stand So All the World Can See.
Caroline L. Gallagher Managing Editor of Alumnews Assistant Director for Alumni Relations Helene Strong Parents’ Club Coordinator Barbara Ciulla Advancement Office Manager Martin Kurzatkowski ’02 Contributing Writer PHOTOGRAPHY Caroline L. Gallagher The Yearbook Staff Amos Chan Lifetouch National School Studio Joseph Mirisola ’06 Alumnews, the Xavier High School magazine, is published three times a year by Xavier High School. Correspondence and address changes should be mailed to: Alumnews Managing Editor Xavier High School 30 West 16th Street New York, NY 10011-6302 or by e-mail to gallagherc@xavierhs.org To contact the Xavier Office for Advancement and Alumni Relations please call 212.924.7900 x1435
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ReuKNIGHTed A Xavier graduation ring invokes fond memories of good things and good times! After losing his high school ring, Paul Marto ’56 thought he had seen the last of it…until he received an interesting e-mail in January 2003.
Front cover: James Cappabianca ’05 pictured in front of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.
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Xavier Men Take to the Sound In memory of those who lost their battles with cancer, Xavier alumni gathered to swim as they raised money for cancer research.
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Joseph A. Von Zwehl ’53 Business connoisseur and dedicated MAN From rising to the position of President of his family printing business to co-founding the MAN Foundation, Joseph Von Zwehl ’53 has proven himself both a master in his field and a man dedicated to service.
Xavier Alumnus Wounded in Iraq Traveling from Tikrit to Baghdad in Iraq, Michael Hughes ’95 evaluated reconnaissance photography for potential military threats. In early September, he was injured when an improvised bomb exploded near his convoy.
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The 2004 Annual Fund A Commitment to Xavier’s Future Continually the most significant factor in successfully funding programs, providing tuition assistance and scholarship aid, compensating faculty and enriching our endowment, Xavier’s Annual Fund is an integral part of the school’s operations. Xavier’s alumni class chairmen have stepped forward to ensure a successful 2004 Annual Fund.
Additional Articles
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Edmund D. Pellegrino, M.D. ’37 Physician, scholar and humanist In a recent interview, Edmund Pellegrino, M.D. ’37 shared his views on medicine, professional ethics and his Xavier experience.
President’s Message
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News from the Quad
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From the Advancement Office
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A Letter from the Headmaster
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Class Notes
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Mileposts
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Fall Sports & JROTC
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Car Raffle
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Adolescents, Peer Pressure and Masters in the Making Dear Alumni, Parents and Friends, A very disturbing event took place recently, just a short distance from Xavier. A public high school freshman was tragically killed in the Eighth Avenue subway, his death witnessed by some of his friends. His death was absolutely avoidable. He was being the daredevil, keeping up his reputation and impressing his friends. He was doing what is called here in New York “subway surfing. ” With the train in motion, someone rides between the cars, climbs to the roof of the car, then “surf rides” through the dark train tunnels of the city. With low height allowances, this stunt is death defying but, in this particular case, death dealing as well. Why do young people take such risks? Observers of adolescent behavior would say because they’re stunt-crazy teens trying to impress classmates and become popular, that they are addicted to thrills and think they’re bulletproof. Peer pressure is often cited as an explanation for adolescents’ mischievous and at times, destructive, even self-destructive behavior. What’s overlooked and often under-rated is the positive influence young people can and do have on each other. Peer pressure is not always negative; in its positive form it creates a dynamic and powerful force for the maturation and betterment of the individuals involved. Let me mention two Xavier examples. Over this past summer, Xavier students were active in Christian Service Programs that brought them to rural Pennsylvania and mountainous Tennessee. In both locales they worked together and alongside their hosts in a manner that was more than each individual’s efforts. There was a camaraderie that said, “we can do a great job here; we can help people improve their lives; we can leave a good mark here, our good reputation and that of our school.” Each individual wanted to see the group succeed; each individual exerted positive peer pressure on the others in order that the collective effort reach a good outcome. Not only were the people there helped, but the helpers also, upon their return to Xavier, realized they were better persons precisely because of the service trip experience. The second Xavier example of positive peer pressure is the X-Squad, Xavier’s precision drill team. Since 1937, I believe, and to this day, with rifles that are probably of that former era, cadets have marched, drilled and taken to the drill floor in countless competitions; and in every instance have exerted positive peer pressure on themselves. Whether the drill is basic or trick, armed or unarmed, in squad formation or platoon, the reality is that the efforts of the individual are only meaningful if the efforts of all the individuals are taken together. The individual’s appearance, presentation and actions are always part of the whole. The group, as a group, has to do well; each person contributes and is vital to the success of the group. No one individual of the team wants to be responsible for the failing of the team, so each member exerts and receives the positive peer pressure to succeed. The fruits of these labors are success, loyalty, perseverance and teamwork—all good lessons for today’s adolescents, and building blocks for their later becoming masters in their fields! Read on, and enjoy this issue of Alumnews. God bless you always,
Rev. Daniel J. Gatti, S.J. ’59 President
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Mass of the Holy Spirit
Honors Assembly
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he Xavier school year opened again this year with the Mass of the Holy Spirit…Students, Faculty, Staff and Administration gathered together at the Honors Assembly on September 17th to award students who received academic first and second honors last year. Varied awards were also presented to students in recognition of individual achievements accomplished during the summer vacation…the Xavier College Counseling Guide was distributed to seniors this fall and more than fifty colleges have requested to visit Xavier to meet with students who are currently working on their applications…the Spirit Day dance saw the largest turnout ever this year in the Commons…Following an old tradition, Xavier marched proudly again in this year’s Columbus Day parade…Xavier has been named “best religious school” in New York City and given the Blackboard Award by West Side Spirit, a west side local newspaper. Award sponsors state that the award honors schools and programs “that parents, students, our advisors and other keen observers of New York’s educational scene—across public, private and religious schools—praised for achieving something special”… Xavier continues to attract thousands of students from all over New York, Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey. With nearly 2,100 people attending our 2003 Fall Open House, Xavier is one of the most popular Catholic high schools for young men. Prospective students and parents were impressed with our excellent academic program, outstanding college placement, strong athletic teams, well equipped and modern facilities and most importantly, our tradition of Jesuit excellence. The Admissions Office is expecting a very large applicant pool composed of bright and talented candidates. Competition, once again, will be very keen.
Reunion Gala An excerpt from the United States Postal Service’s unofficial motto describes this year’s Reunion Gala best: “Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays” these Xavier alumni from returning to their alma mater. The rain and gloom of June 21st did not deter the more than 400 Xavier alumni
and guests from enjoying this year’s Reunion Gala. In fact, this year proved to be the largest turnout for Reunion in Xavier’s history. The weekend began with two individual class reunions; the Class of 1953 enjoyed the beginning of their Golden Jubilee weekend at the Union League Club while the Class of 1963 celebrated their 40th at Martell’s Grill. The Union League Club has been a location used, with great success, by a
number of 50th year classes. The venue is a great place for the important occasion, offering an opportunity for classmates to see one another for the first time, often in many years. Prior to the event, Walter Kearns ’53 researched and compiled information about his classmates’ whereabouts and activities since graduation and created a booklet for distribution at the Club. Each alumnus was also offered the opportunity to approach the microphone and recollect his Alumnews - Fall 2003
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favorite Xavier tale. Simultaneously, in a different part of Manhattan, the Class of 1963 reminisced about their days at Xavier. A casual setting for seeing old friends, Martell’s Grill offered an evening of sociable conversation and much laughter for the 40th year class.
Class of 1988
Class of 1968
Class of 1953 gathered in the Jesuit Library
The 50+ Club caught up over cocktails in Larkin Hall
Martell’s Grill welcomed a huge turnout for the Class of 1963 on the Friday of Reunion
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Saturday’s events began with an afternoon Mass in the Church of St. Francis Xavier. Celebrated by Rev. Msgr. John P. O’Connor ’53 and concelebrated by four other Xavier alumni, the Mass honored the deceased classmates of those celebrating their reunions this year. Following Mass, members of the Student Council and JROTC, who graciously gave of their summer vacation to return to Xavier, stationed themselves throughout the building, directing alumni in the proper direction for school tours. Twelve members of the X-Squad performed flawlessly in the Commons for a captivated audience.
Held throughout the building, cocktails for individual classes followed. Alumni had the opportunity to catch up, rekindling old friendships in the Commons, Larkin Hall, Faculty and Staff Lounge, and Student and Jesuit Libraries. Eventually, all classes proceeded to the decorated gym for dinner, where they were able to sit with their classmates, as well as connect with Xavier alumni from other reunion classes. The dinner program began with the singing of the National Anthem, led by Frank Gregory, former Dean of Students. Rev. Patrick J. Sullivan, S.J., Xavier President from 1981 to 1988 and one of this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, gave the invocation, which was followed by the presentation of the Class of 1953’s class gift, which totaled $43,445! As a special honor to our Golden Jubilee class, the Class of 1953 was called up to the stage, where Father
Gatti presented each member with a Xavier tie and commemorative class pin. A gift was also given to the oldest alumnus present, Cornelius Bastable ’28, who attended his 75th Reunion with his two daughters! Many men traveled great distances to be with their classes. It was a close competition this year; Marty Corrado ’63 resides in the city of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, while Vincent Battle ’58 lives in Beirut, Lebanon. The award for the farthest distance traveled however, was given to Patrick Clifford ’78, who traveled all the way from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to be back for his reunion! All attendees at the Reunion Gala received a souvenir. This year, the keepsake was a photograph of their class, taken during the cocktail hour at the Reunion Gala. It was mailed to attendees in the weeks following Reunion. Despite the dreary weather, this year’s Gala proved to be Xavier’s brightest ever. Thank you to all alumni who attended!
Building Community Thro u g h S e r v i c e The Companions of Xavier Service Program is a long-standing part of Xavier’s tradition of offering students the opportunity to live out the Ignatian call to be “Men for Others.” The mission of service projects is to provide students with a communal experience of Church as a center of reflection and prayer, while working with those in need. This past summer, the Companions of Xavier traveled to Pennsylvania and Tennessee to accomplish these goals. In June, eight sophomores and six juniors accompanied program director and religious education teacher, Mr. Joseph Petriello, along with other faculty members, to Bethany Youth Center in Frenchville, Pennsylvania. During their weeklong stay, the team participated in demolition and renovation work on a building that was being converted into a youth center for the community. Additionally, they painted, visited nursing homes and completed yard
Jabian Gutierrez ’04 and David Lopez ’04 at work on a summer service trip
work for the homebound. At night, students and faculty moderators “gathered together for prayer and reflection,” said David Lopez ’04. Two months later, in August, six students from Xavier and six students from Fordham Preparatory School joined together for a week of service through Appalachia Habitat for Humanity in Robbins, Tennessee. They worked to build new houses for low-income families, repaired the roof of a house that was hit by a tornado last November and salvaged valuable wood from a factory that was going out of business. This trip accomplished more than one goal. According to Mr. Petriello, “not only
The Companions of Xavier Service Program is a long-standing part of Xavier’s tradition of offering students the opportunity to live out the Ignatian call to be “Men for Others.”
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did students build and repair homes, they also built bridges of community between their individual schools and among the people of Scott and Morgan Counties.”
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Of the Pennsylvania trip, Michael Mule ’04 wrote, “The Companions of Xavier trip was one of my best Xavier experiences. I had the chance to help less fortunate people, people both physically needy and physically challenged…It was a worthwhile experience and I will always remember…the relationships I formed.” The application process is already underway for future projects—three similar trips, all to Robbins, Tennessee, will take place in summer 2004.
Restoration and Preservation of St. Francis Xavier Church Often times, when an alumnus returns to Xavier for Reunion or on an impromptu visit, he has questions about the beautiful church that he remembers as being a part of his Xavier experience. The Church of St. Francis Xavier was and still remains a very important part of our school life.
renovation. The exterior of the church, now more than one hundred twenty years old, is in need of a new roof, some brick work and an overall improvement of the facade. The Parish Community, led by its pastor and Xavier alumnus, Rev. Ned Coughlin, S.J. ’62, has championed a fantastic campaign to raise the funds needed to make these imperative improvements. Scaffolding has surrounded the church for months now, and a blue tarp covers the roof. The project’s estimated completion date is the end of summer 2004. We are proud that Xavier High School continues to use the church, built so many years ago, to instruct and guide our students. It is exciting to see the parish working so hard to ensure that the church, in all her splendor, will continue to be a vital part of this neighborhood and our community.
Campaign Reception In anticipation of the public announcement of Xavier’s capital campaign, Stand So All the World Can See, a reception was held at the Beekman Tower Hotel’s Top of the Tower on September 9th. Invitees who
were thanked included those alumni and friends who made leadership gifts to the campaign. Dan Denihan ’65, a Managing Director of Affinia Hospitality, the company that owns the Beekman, graciously hosted the event. Dan is one of four campaign Co-Chairmen, serving with John Meditz ’66, Eugene Rainis ’58 and Frederic Salerno ’61. Located on the top floor of the Beekman, at 49th Street and 1st Avenue, the venue afforded spectacular views of the skyline of New York City. Guests indulged in complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Eugene Rainis ’58 and Xavier President, Father Gatti acknowledged them for their altruistic support of Xavier’s future. To all those who have supported Xavier’s capital campaign, we thank you. Ned Hess ’45, who is pictured at center with Gene Cooke ’45 and Joe Gorski below, charitably committed to a gift for Xavier’s capital campaign and was in attendance at Top of the Tower. We were greatly saddened to learn that three days later Ned suffered a fatal heart attack. His generosity to Xavier will long be remembered.
The church as we know it was dedicated on St. Francis Xavier’s Feast Day, December 3, 1882. It was built on the site of the old student yard, west of the old church. Amazingly, electricity was not added until 1893. However, from the beginning, the school utilized the church for Masses that incorporated homilies specifically aimed at Xavier men. Today, students, faculty and staff still gather, more than ten times per year, to pray, celebrate and give thanks for the community of Xavier. Current Xavier students also use Larkin Hall, what was the lower church, as their cafeteria. The church that has cradled so many generations of Xavier men is undergoing a much-needed Gene Cooke ‘45, Ned Hess ‘45 and Joe Gorski enjoy the Campaign Reception
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Xavier Society & Loyola Associates Reception and President’s Council Dinner On Thursday, September 18th, Father Gatti was given the opportunity to thank members of the Xavier Society and Loyola Associates at a reception held at Moran’s Restaurant. Due to the threat of Hurricane Isabel, the turnout this year was not as great as in years past. Still, seventy alumni, friends, parents and faculty did attend, enjoying hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Father Gatti addressed the crowd toward the end of the evening, expressing his gratitude for the generosity of the attendees. He gave updates on the ongoing happenings at Xavier and fielded questions from those present, ranging from the current status of sports teams to the languages offered in the curriculum; sports updates are noted on page 26 of this magazine while the language choices at Xavier include French, Italian, Latin and Spanish. Thanks to all those who contribute to Xavier each year and braved the threatening weather to join us at the reception!
The President’s Council Dinner was need for such an initiative stems from held on September 24th at the New York the widening financial gap between Athletic Club. current tuition and Just less than the cost to educate three hundred each student at guests were Xavier. This gap in attendance, has grown by 36% delighting in during the past five fair weather, years, resulting in charming views a greater reliance of Central on the annual Park and good fund, increased company. Dinner pressure on Xavier’s began with an endowment and a Brendan Gallagher ‘88, John Thorburn ‘89, Patrick invocation led threat to financial aid. Grady ‘88 and Andrew White ‘88 gathered at the Xavier Society & Loyola Associates Reception by Headmaster, Rev. David Fred Salerno ’61, one Ciancimino, S.J. of four campaign co’77. The highlight chairs, announced of the evening the objectives of the was the public campaign, noting announcement that the funds raised of Xavier’s capital during the capital campaign, Stand campaign will So All the World provide scholarships Can See. Taking for financially its name from needy students Xavier’s school and for those with Father Ciancimino and John Spollen ‘62 at the President’s Council Dinner song, the capital high academic campaign was achievements, born out of a decision to secure a establish endowed faculty chairs to minimum of $10,000,000 in new gifts, continue attracting and retaining the above and beyond annual giving. The most talented educators, and create a reserve fund to maintain and enhance the aging physical plant. Father Gatti publicly thanked all those who made commitments to the campaign, and specifically recognized John Meditz ’66 for his extraordinary pledge of $1 million. John took the podium and spoke about the lessons learned from his parents, including that giving to a worthy cause was not only appropriate, but also necessary. Following his comments, John’s generosity was recognized with a standing ovation. The evening concluded with a closing prayer, led by Mr. Anthony SooHoo, S.J. and “Sons of Xavier,” led by Father Gatti.
The new members of the President’s Council pose with Father Gatti
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From the Advancement Office Joe Gorski Director of Advancement
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his issue of Alumnews focuses on “masters in their fields,” men who have pursued excellence successfully during their careers, beginning with their days as Xavier undergraduates. These men have risen to great heights both professionally and spiritually, and are excellent role models for the entire Xavier community. They are also indicative of Xavier’s continuing pursuit of excellence in education today, combining the tools for professional success with Jesuit values, while molding young boys into “Men for Others.” There are many components that contribute to the ongoing success of this hallowed institution. We begin with an excellent administration headed by two alumni, our President, Rev. Dan Gatti, S.J. ’59 and Headmaster, Rev. Dave Ciancimino, S.J. ’77. Not only do they provide Xavier with inspired leadership, but they also provide the school with a strong Jesuit presence (ably aided in this by members of the faculty, Rev. Pierce Brennan, S.J., Rev. Jim Coughlin, S.J., Rev. Bob O’Hare, S.J., Rev. Jack Replogle, S.J., Brother Chris Derby, S.J., and Mr. Anthony SooHoo, S.J.). The men and women of our faculty are dedicated to the concept of “Cura Personalis” – the care of the total individual – challenging each student academically, recognizing and refining their innate goodness, encouraging the developments of their various talents and, in the words of Rodger Shay ’54, imbuing them with a “can do” attitude to carry with them as they journey through college and career. A major factor in Xavier’s success is the dedication of the parents of our students. As the ultimate caregivers for their sons, they have chosen, often at great financial sacrifice, to expose them to all the opportunities inherent in a Xavier education. In addition, they support the school through their own volunteerism, working on committees, attending and aiding staff at events such as Spirit Day and Open House, 8
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among others, as well as financially through donating to the Parents’ Annual Fund Drive or the “Bridging the Gap” program. Their participation at Xavier is a critical ingredient in the richness of school life and a primary example to their children of the need for commitment to others. There are the students themselves who, at a tender age, make a decision to leave the security of their neighborhoods to travel to 16th Street from each of the boroughs, parts of New Jersey, Westchester and Long Island. Here they aspire to academic achievement, compete on the athletic fields, pursue their talents in various extracurricular activities and seek a deeper understanding of their relationship to God and the world, while forming friendships that will last a lifetime. The final ingredients on the path to excellence are our alumni and past parents. It is your continued belief in the relevance and promise of a Xavier education that ultimately allows us to continue our mission. As you know, we have a gap of approximately $2,500 between the tuition and fees charged and the actual cost to educate each student every year. Your financial support of Xavier, year after year, makes it possible for us to recruit and retain a first rate faculty, keep tuition levels competitive and provide sufficient
financial aid to allow us to educate bright young men without regard to current economic status. This year we are asking each of you to participate once again in our annual fund drive. Although we had our fourth consecutive year of growth in fiscal year 2002-2003, we did fall just short of our goal. Our participation rate among alumni also dipped a notch to 30% from 31%. (Although this rate is a benchmark for many high schools and some colleges, it falls considerably short of Regis, which has a rate well over 50%.) This year’s goal is $1,725,000 and with your continued support I know we can achieve that mark and increase our number of donors. In closing, I would also like to mention our capital campaign, Stand So All The World Can See. We announced the beginning of the public phase of the campaign at our President’s Council Dinner and you will be hearing more about it in the near future. We have set a goal of raising $10,000,000 over and above our Annual Fund Drive and I am happy to report that we have already received cash and pledges totaling $7,040,000! Again, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for the school. You continue to insure Xavier’s legacy and tradition of excellence.
Rodger Shay ’54
M a k e s a M a j o r Co m m i t m e nt to Xav i e r ’s Ca mpaign
When asked why he made a six-figure
Jesuits of Xavier instilled in him a “can
record of achievement. We cannot
commitment to Xavier’s Stand So All
do” attitude and a belief system that
thank him enough for his generosity,
the World Can See capital campaign,
he depends on to this day. He believes
his leadership and his continued
Rodger Shay spoke of the men that
in the Jesuits for their unique aspect
dedication to his alma mater on 16th
shaped his life. From scholastic Mr.
of instilling a “commitment to others”
Street.
Christopher Mooney, S.J. who gave
through their educational ministry.
him a “great platform for his future” by
Keep your eyes open for a campaign
instilling confidence in his speaking
Rodger, who is a great supporter
brochure that will talk more about
abilities, to Rev. Thomas Matthews, S.J.
of Catholic education both here
campaign leaders, what the campaign
who was the “guardian of the clock,”
at Xavier and in his home state of
will be specifically supporting and how
to Rev. Daniel Carey, S.J. for whom he
Florida, hopes that his gift will inspire
you can help make a difference.
was an altar boy at morning Mass—the
others to ensure Xavier’s continuing
Rodger Shay ‘54, center, enjoying this year’s President’s Council Dinner with Pat and Larry Paretta ‘55 and Ann and Jim Gallagher ‘54
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Our alumni have wonderful stories to tell about their experiences while in high school at Xavier. On many occasions the Alumnews staff is made aware of chance meetings and reconnections between two Xavier graduates, or interesting happenings that relate to Xavier in some way. Alumnews is happy to begin a new column entitled, ReuKNIGHTed, which recounts these tales. The column will only be as successful as the number of stories we receive. Please do not hesitate to contact Caroline Gallagher with your story at gallagherc@xavierhs.org or by phone at 212.924.7900 x1435.
Anthony had not recognized Kevin Reid’s more common name, but Kevin recalled Anthony’s more unusual one. There were 207 graduates in the Class of 1966; the probability that the two classmates would meet in Dayton, thirty-seven
A Good Doctor Isn’t So Hard to Find Anthony Viscomi, Ph.D. ’66 was recently admitted to Grandview Hospital in Dayton, Ohio for medical treatment. One of the doctors assigned to him was Dr. Kevin Reid. Upon hearing his New York accent, Dr. Reid inquired about Anthony’s roots. Anthony explained that he grew up in Queens, after which Dr. Reid asked what high school he attended. When Anthony replied that he had attended Xavier, Dr. Reid exclaimed, “I know; I was your classmate!”
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Anthony Viscomi ‘66
Kevin Reid ‘66
years later and under these unusual circumstances, is amazing. Anthony noted that, with Kevin’s help, he has recovered fully from a combination of a heart attack and stroke.
A Story that Rings True During the summer of 1955, Paul Marto ’56 was preparing to be a senior at Xavier and decided to do some celebrating with friends at Jones Beach on Long Island. He had just received his class ring in the spring and, although it was slightly large, he decided to show it off by wearing it. At dusk, as the beach party was wrapping up, Paul stood to gather the blanket on which he was sitting. In an instant, the ring flew off of his finger, landing softly in the sand. Paul and his friends searched diligently, but the new ring was not to Paul Marto ‘56 be found. Paul graduated in 1956, went on to the University of Notre Dame and then to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he received an Sc.D. in Nuclear Engineering. After serving in the Navy, he taught at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California for thirty years, becoming a Distinguished Professor of Mechanical Engineering. He married his wife, Ginger, in 1961. The two have four children. Forty-eight years after Paul lost his ring, in February 2003, he received an e-mail.
It read: When my wife’s godfather died in January 2003 we took possession of some of the things he had collected over the years…One of the items we found was a high school ring. “ Paul J. Marto—Class of 1956” is engraved on the ring. I thought that you might want your ring back after what is probably many years. If you would call me or e-mail me, I would be happy to return it to you. Signed, Terry Arsenault Mr. Arsenault’s wife’s godfather lived in Canada and owned a metal detector. During a visit to the Jones Beach area in 1955, he found the ring and then stored it among his personal belongings. It remained there until his death in January 2003 when Mr. Arsenault and his wife discovered it, in pristine condition, and subsequently returned it to Paul.
the return of his ring was a “flashback on four wonderful years and of wonderful people...[because] Xavier is truly a special place.” He expressed that his years at Xavier, under the Jesuits, and later at the University of Notre Dame, under the Holy Cross Fathers, were “experiences that formed me as a person.” Paul has also found deeper meaning in the repossession of his ring; he has since returned to Xavier for his first visit since graduating, and has made efforts to contact some of his former classmates. For safekeeping, Paul’s ring is now housed in a safe deposit box. He does not want to chance losing it again; it is still too large for his finger!
Paul expressed his gratitude, noting that although Mr. Arsenault had no connection with Xavier, he still went to great lengths to return the ring. Mr. Arsenault countered that it is wonderful when a small act can bring such great happiness and fond memories; he was happy to do it. The significance of his recovered high school ring was great; Paul recounted that
Paul Marto ‘56 and his rediscovered class ring
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Xavier Men Take to the Sound
Raising funds for cancer research
On a Saturday morning this past July, Xavier alumni, along with more than 300 additional swimmers, gathered at the Larchmont Shore Club on the banks of the Long Island Sound to raise funds for cancer research. Participants were sponsored for both one and four mile swims. Although not a race, many swimmers formed teams in memory of those who lost their battles with cancer. Team Doyle, in memory of Arthur Doyle ’75, who passed away in 1998, included Mike Ford ’63, Pat Doyle ’70, Brian Cady ’74, Bill McGinn ’75, Brendan Doyle ’77, Colin O’Neill ’80 and Pete Salerno ’80. Dick McCauley ’49, along with his wife, Phyllis, served
Team Doyle members, Brendan Doyle ’77, Mike Ford ’63, Pat Doyle ’70, Colin O’Neill ’80, Pete Salerno ’80, Bill McGinn ’75 and Brian Cady ’74
as kayakers and accompanied the swimmers for four miles. Their children and grandchildren participated as swimmers. The event was organized by Swim Across America, Inc., a non-profit organization founded in 1987, dedicated to raising financial support and awareness for cancer research through a variety of open water swims. The event at the Larchmont Shore Club on July 12th raised more than $605,000. We congratulate and commend all those who sponsored the event and participated in it! Phyllis and Dick McCauley ’49 with their family
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A Letter from the Headmaster
Greetings from 16th Street!
Dear Xavier Alumni and Friends, In a meeting with the freshman class, I spoke of the training that St. Ignatius Loyola demanded for his companions. His Jesuits were to be keenly and rigorously trained. St. Ignatius insisted on it. They were schooled in classical literature, language, rhetoric, philosophy and theology. Simply put, Ignatius wanted his followers to be the best. He knew the demands of discipleship and the mission. He carefully saw to their training and preparation for their mission in service of Christ and the Church. Jesuits sent into the world were to be armed with the tools necessary to be articulate, credible and even persuasive! They were to move seamlessly from preaching in the town squares, serving simply in the care of the sick, to speaking boldly before the courts of Kings and Queens. When the Jesuits opened the first school in Messina, Sicily they kept this passion for rigorous training that they had received, and assured that their students inherited this rich tradition and zeal for excellence. Just as these early Jesuits had been prepared for the world, they began to train young men (and later, women) for leadership in society and the service of others. This issue of our magazine highlights some of our alumni who are “masters in their field.” They are representatives of a tremendously successful group of men and women who continue this legacy of Jesuit excellence and service. As St. Ignatius would be proud of these Sons of Xavier highlighted here, he would also be happy to see the good work begun long ago continuing today on 16th Street. The companions Ignatius would find in the classrooms at Xavier might look different now. Although we are fortunate to have a Jesuit scholastic, a Jesuit brother and a number of priests in our classrooms, integral to our mission are the dedicated women and men who share in our vision. Xavier boasts an excellent faculty with familiar names like Baker, Woehling, Lamour, Replogle, Sweeney, Stevens, Iacovone, Tolkin, Castro, Paolozzi, Vargas, Gonzalez, Grandel and Wlach. Ignatius would be happy that the quality of teaching remains rigorous for the students of today. Xavier challenges and prepares today’s young men to be tomorrow’s leaders and the “masters of their fields.” We
boast of Xavier’s distinction as a nationally recognized Department of Education Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. In October, Xavier received the Blackboard Award and was named “outstanding religious school” in New York. SAT scores are the highest they have been in many years and the quality of students entering Xavier is excellent. (This past year the average entrance score for admitted students was at the 84th percentile.) Our school building is in great shape. Returning alumni marvel at the transformation that has taken place over the years. Technology at Xavier is state-of-the-art. Curriculum is regularly reviewed and evaluated. The JROTC program continues a strong Xavier tradition (You would have been proud of our cadets at the Columbus Day Parade!) Drama, music and art are programs of which we are justly proud. The campus ministry team assures quality retreats, liturgies and many opportunities for service for our students. St. Ignatius would be pleased with the young sons in our care who are accepting the academic challenge while developing the desire to be “men for others” and serve Christ’s mission. At Xavier, we appreciate the demands of discipleship and mission today. We still want our students to be the best! Sincerely,
David S. Ciancimino, S.J. ’77 Headmaster
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Von Zwehl
Business connoisseur and dedicated MAN
Joseph A. Von Zwehl ’53
The term “masters in their field” refers to individuals who have achieved great successes throughout their lives, through both professional and personal accomplishments. As President of Varn International, a global powerhouse in the printing industry, and later instrumental in the development of the MAN Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes humanitarian efforts throughout the world, Joe Von Zwehl ’53 has exemplified the qualities that make him such a master. Following his graduation from Iona College with a degree in chemistry, Joe joined the family chemical business as a field salesman. Founded in 1947 by his father, Vincent Von Zwehl Sr., Varn Products Company, Inc. brought safe, efficient and cost effective pressroom chemistry to the printing industry. It expanded from a small firm with a local marketplace to become Varn International, a company with a distribution covering 90% of the world’s economy. Through Joe’s dedication and persistence, he became President of Varn International in 1975. By then, the company had expanded to eight countries with ten manufacturing facilities. In 1998, Varn teamed up with Heidelberg, a print media giant, to open a facility that would produce pressroom chemicals in Foshan, China. Although Varn had successfully expanded to overseas markets in the past, this was its first joint venture. A densely populated area, Foshan is approximately 200 miles inland from
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Hong Kong and, because of its location, some analysts expressed initial doubts regarding the feasibility of the endeavor. Joe decided to take the risk—China China presented a wonderful opportunity for growth, Hong Kong was a good business base and the literacy level in Foshan’s Guangdong province was among China’s best. Joe’s instincts were right; the venture was extremely successful, and continues to be prosperous today. Following almost fifty-three years as a privately held company, Varn was acquired by Day International in October 1999 and is currently a subsidiary of the Day International Group. Joe retired from the company the next year, but his business success has not gone unnoticed.
He served as Vice President of GASA, the Graphic Arts Services Association, on the Board of Directors of GATF, the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation, and is one of only two Americans ever to have been granted the title of “Fellow” in the British Institute of Printing. Additionally, he has been recognized with a number of awards for his work, including a Lifetime Achievement Award by NAGASA, the distribution association for printing and imaging technologies, at the closing banquet of their Forum 2000 Convention. The award is bestowed upon a member who has enjoyed a long and dedicated career in service to the graphic arts industry. Following his retirement from Varn, Joe began work in a different capacity, as a co-founder of the MAN Foundation, a non-profit organization which provides funding for building churches throughout the world and furthering the charitable works of the Catholic Church. Joe’s aunt, who gave significantly of her time to work with the church while Joe was growing up, fostered his initial interest in works of charity. Inspired by her good deeds, Joe supported his wife, Noreen, when she suggested starting a charitable works foundation. Working in the name of three great women, Martin, Avila and Neumann, the MAN Foundation is dedicated to the propagation of the faith throughout the world. Geared toward helping children, the hungry, the needy, the aged and spiritually impoverished people of the world, the foundation operates out of the ground floor of the Von Zwehl home, in Muttontown, New York, and its staff is composed of the working laity. Noreen Von Zwehl is the organization’s president. The foundation has seen the completion of numerous projects
in China, Vietnam, Jerusalem, Kenya, South Africa, Ireland and New York. One such project was completed in 1999 at the Huu Phuoc Parish, Xuan Loc Diocese in Vietnam. Religious education was not provided in this central Vietnam region due to the lack of a proper facility. The MAN Foundation provided the necessary funds to build a religious education and Catholic Community Center that provided training to more than one thousand children on a multisession basis throughout the year. More recently, the foundation acquired an abandoned church in Edmeston, New York. Originally built nineteen years ago, but abandoned for seventeen of those years, it was in desperate need of repair. The MAN Foundation has funded the necessary renovations, including installing heating and plumbing, as well as adding pews and statues. It has been converted into a shrine, now a dedicated House of Prayer, where various programs are run throughout the year. In the spring of 2004, the foundation plans to add a grotto across the street from the church with a rosary walk and other adornments. In total, the MAN Foundation has completed more than twenty projects worldwide, with additional prospective projects. As a result, Joe and Noreen have been featured on a program aired on Focus Television. Based in
New Orleans, the show presented a promotion for the affairs at the shrine in Edmeston. Joe and Noreen have also been recognized for their charitable work by Iona College; Noreen received an honorary doctorate, while Joe was the recipient of the Brother Driscoll Award for humanitarian services. When asked which undertaking has been more fulfilling—his work as the President of Varn, a company he helped to build, or his work for the MAN Foundation—Joe admits that the successes are different. He understands that the work he is able to do now with the MAN Foundation is a result of his success at Varn, and he feels responsible for returning to society the benefits and successes that were offered to him in business. Joe’s Jesuit education had a meaningful impact on the decisions he has made to perform humanitarian work. He notes, “A Jesuit education is second to none. It developed in me values above and beyond commercialism. Those values stay with you throughout your life and build the standards on which your life is based.” He also expressed his gratitude to Xavier for the values that were instilled in him during his high school years, saying, “to build a good foundation is to build a good life. Xavier provided that; it is an excellent school.” —Caroline L. Gallagher
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Edmund D. Pellegrino, M.D. ’37 Physician, scholar and humanist Edmund D. Pellegrino, M.D. is regarded today as one of the world’s most renowned and respected writers and speakers on ethics and the medical profession. He has authored more than five hundred publications on medical science, ethics and philosophy, holds forty-six honorary doctorates and is a member of numerous medical organizations, including the Catholic Physicians’ Association and the Pontifical Academy for Life. At the heart of Dr. Pellegrino’s assertions is his idea that the relationship between the patient and physician is based upon a vital trust. This trust is reliant upon the professionalism exhibited by the physician. In a publication titled, “What is a profession?” Dr. Pellegrino noted that, “To be a professional is to make a promise to help, to keep that promise, and to do so in the best interests of the patient. It is to accept the trust the patient must place in us as a moral imperative, one that the ethos of the marketplace or competition does not expect us in our society to honor. The special nature of the helping and healing professions is rooted in the fact that people become ill and need to trust others to help them restore health.”1 Throughout his career, Dr. Pellegrino has honored this trust. Following his graduation from Xavier, Dr. Pellegrino received a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and continued on to graduate from New York University’s Medical School. He has spent his career in academic medicine—a career that includes treating patients, teaching medicine and working in a laboratory. His professional experiences have included terms as President of Yale-New Haven Medical Center and of the Catholic University of America. Currently, he serves as Professor Emeritus of Medicine and Medical Ethics, Senior Research Scholar of the Kennedy Institute of Ethics and Adjunct Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. He and his wife, Clementine, live in Maryland and have seven children. Describing his life and career as “satisfying and very fulfilling,” Dr. Pellegrino exemplifies a Xavier alumnus who is a master in his field. Alumnews recently spoke with Dr. Pellegrino, who shared his views on medicine, professional ethics and his Xavier experience.
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Alumnews: You were raised in Brooklyn as the eldest of four brothers who attended Xavier. Additionally, you were class vice president in your third and fourth years at Xavier. Do you consider yourself a born leader? Dr. Pellegrino: No, I have never thought I was a “born” leader, nor did I aspire to become one. In the kind of career I have had, there are occasions to write or speak in ways that might appeal to others. Then, without intending to be a leader, some people may call you one.
faced with a professional or personal situation that conflicted ethically with your beliefs? Dr. Pellegrino: I would not single out any one topic. Today, human life issues are the most controversial— abortion, assisted suicide, euthanasia, stem cell research, cloning. It is here that being a Catholic Christian
makes an enormous difference. Protecting human life at every stage of its development from the earliest moment to its natural end is the greatest challenge we face in ethics and politics today. I have faced situations in which I have been asked as a physician to assist in suicide of dying patients—I
Alumnews: You are regarded as one of today’s most prominent and passionate spokesmen on medical ethics. While you promote the importance of the sacred physicianpatient relationship, others argue that the fields of medicine and health care are businesses. Can you elaborate on your views? Dr. Pellegrino: Unfortunately, Americans have made medical and health care a commodity when it should be primarily a human service. Health care cannot be left to the vagaries of the marketplace. Sickness is a universal human phenomenon that ultimately afflicts all of us. That is why economics, while important, should not drive health care. Caring for the sick, the poor, the elderly and the very young are societal obligations—not opportunities for investment and profit making. Alumnews: Today, there is an onslaught of controversial medical issues being publicized in the media, including euthanasia, cloning and stem cell research, among others. Does one particular topic have special meaning for you? Have you ever been Alumnews - Fall 2003
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have always refused, cognizant of the physician’s responsibility to relieve pain, but never by killing the sufferer. Of course, in my work in the field of Bioethics, I must confront these issues daily. I often find myself in disagreement with secular colleagues who study the same questions from a different moral perspective. There is a growing dichotomy between the Catholic Church’s magisterial teaching and the opinions of many of today’s secular bioethicists. We need more physicians, nurses and other health professionals in the field of Bioethics who can explain and defend the Church’s teaching in their professional lives. Alumnews: Is it possible to remain objective when addressing ethical issues, or is subjectivity inevitable? Dr. Pellegrino: Yes, it is possible, indeed necessary, to seek objective moral truth when addressing ethical issues. Ethics is a branch of philosophy which critically, systematically and formally examines the moral rightness and wrongness of human acts. If there were no objective foundation for ethics, there would be no way to judge moral right and wrong. Ethics itself would be irrelevant if our subjective notions of morality were all we had.
Alumnews: The yearbook for the graduating class of June 1937 included a section of thanks to Xavier. An excerpt reads, “Thanks, Xavier...for teaching us the meaning of obedience and respect. For casting the first mold of manhood from what was four years ago a group of timid youngsters quaking at the sound of their own footsteps as they entered their hospitable home of knowledge and enjoyment.” How accurate is this quote in terms of your experiences while at Xavier? Dr. Pellegrino: I think it is accurate, though perhaps a bit romantic. I have always been grateful to Xavier and the educational opportunities it gave me. Xavier provided something very difficult to get in today’s educational milieu—a true classical liberal education focusing on how to think, write, speak and make judgments about the good, the true and the beautiful. Xavier introduced me to the rich intellectual traditions of the Church and the Western World and their relationships to other cultures. I learned how to study, how to organize my reading and how to approach the study of any subject in an orderly way.
Alumnews: As an author, speaker, professor and physician, with which role do you most strongly identify?
Alumnews: How did the values instilled at Xavier impact your personal and professional development? Along these same lines, how did a Jesuit education, specifically one at Xavier, influence your life and commitment to your work?
Dr. Pellegrino: I identify most with being a physician. I do not consider myself primarily an ethicist or moralist. I am a physician who tries to reflect critically, philosophically and systematically on the moral nature of medical practice.
Dr. Pellegrino: The values instilled at Xavier have influenced every aspect of my personal and professional life. They made a lasting imprint on my scholarship, teaching and speaking. They provided a solid foundation upon which I could build further with
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my education at St. John’s University and New York University. Xavier’s education is, without doubt, the most important intellectual experience in my formal education. Alumnews: The theme for this issue of the magazine is alumni who are masters in their fields. Do you have any final thoughts that you would like to share with the Xavier community? Can you offer any advice to our students? Dr. Pellegrino: My advice to the Xavier community is to keep up your effort to educate the young in faith, reason and the spiritual life. Together these will make for a happy, healthy, spiritually sound life for your students. To the students, I would say—Take advantage of the liberal education Xavier offers. Paradoxically, it will be the most important foundation, for any field or profession you later pursue. Alumnews: Thank you for your time today, Dr. Pellegrino. Dr. Pellegrino: You’re welcome. Thank you. —Caroline L. Gallagher
1
Pellegrino, E. What is a profession? J Allied Health. 1983:(12)3:174
Xavier Alumnus
Wounded in Iraq Michael Hughes ’95 recently returned home to the United States for a brief leave after being wounded in Tikrit, Iraq. Michael, a Specialist in the United States Army’s 4th Infantry Division, was deployed on April 7th. Traveling throughout Iraq, from Tikrit to Baghdad, Michael’s role has been to evaluate reconnaissance photography for potential military threats. Until early September, Michael’s unit had avoided the attacks that had inundated other units, but on September 2nd he was injured when an improvised bomb exploded near his convoy. The backs of his legs were hit with shrapnel and although his injuries were not critical, they did qualify him to be among the first service members to return stateside since the beginning of the conflict. In an article in Town & Village, Stuyvesant Town’s local newspaper, Michael expressed that “attending Xavier High School sparked his interest in the military.” His interest grew while attending Hofstra University as a member of the ROTC. Michael returned to Iraq in early October to complete the remaining six months of his tour of duty. We will keep him in our prayers, and await his safe return back home again.
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The 2004 Annual Fund
A C o m m i t m e n t t o X a v i e r ’s Fu t u r e
The Annual Fund continues to be the most significant factor in successfully funding programs, providing tuition assistance and scholarship aid, compensating faculty and enriching our endowment. A goal of $1,725,000 has been set for the 2004 Annual Fund as we strive to bridge the gap of $2,500 per student that exists between tuition and fees charged and the actual cost of educating a student at Xavier. Your early participation in this year’s fund with a leadership gift will also allow us to decrease costs by reducing the number of individual mailings we make throughout the fiscal year. We hope that the Annual Fund remittance envelope folded into this issue serves as a convenience for you when you want to update your personal information for our files, submit news for “Class Notes” or remember Xavier with a gift. Please note that updates and gifts to Xavier can be made at any time on-line at www.xavierhsalumni.org. We are pleased that Thomas Donnelly ’57 has again agreed to serve as the Annual Fund Chairman. In December you will hear from Tom, and alumni can be sure to hear from class chairmen during phonathon and reunion time. The help of all is greatly needed to attain the $1,725,000 goal. To a great extent, the success of the Annual Fund depends on the growing involvement of our alumni as volunteers and as donors. The names of those who, at the time of this printing, have volunteered their time and efforts as class chairmen are listed below. Please participate in the phonathons and assist the class chairmen in their efforts to maintain the strong bond that Xavier enjoys with its many sons. Annual Fund dollars support programs that position students for the highest level of achievement.
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Alumni Class Chairmen Annual Fund Chairman Thomas H. Donnelly, Ph.D. ’57 1928 W. Bingham Cox
1960 James W. Cuddihy
1930 Msgr. John R. Torney
1961 C.P. Connell, Jr.
1931 James M. Horan
1962 Thomas M. Callahan
1932 John A. Winter
1963 Peter E. Schwimer, C.S.W.
1933 Joseph M. Duffy
1964 Raymond J. Lustig, Esq.
1985 Bruce McLane
1935 Kevin E. Kavanagh, Esq.
1966 John C. Meditz
1986 Kevin P. Cuddihy
1938 Harold J. White
1967 James Crisafulli
1987 Paul Mattiola
1939 Thomas M. Doyle 1940 Ralph R. Ilaria, Esq. 1941 Joseph G. Fennelly 1942 Felix R. Suarez 1943 Thomas L. Doyle, Jr., M.D. 1944 Francis J. Dwyer, Esq. Aloysius C. Tattam
Francis B. Orlando, Esq. 1970 James P. Gildea Edward S. Kulesza, M.D. 1971 Harry J. Brix III Kenneth J. Sidlowski 1972 Donald W. Gross, Jr. Peter A. Maniscalco
1945 William A. Murphy
1973 Robert H. Maguire
1947 Leo B. Connelly, Esq.
1974 Richard J. Scheller
Albert J. Melzl 1948 James E. Tweedy, P.E.
1975 Miguel Fittipaldi, Esq. James E. Hillman
1952 Thomas A. Conniff, Esq.
1976 Louis J. Papa, Esq.
1954 Martin J. McLaughlin, Jr.
1977 John J. Young, D.D.S.
Franklin D. Piasio
1978 Craig A. Eaton, Esq.
1955 John R. Mellert
1979 Marc T. Corea
1957 John J. Caslin, Jr., Esq.
1980 Stephen T. Keller
Thomas H. Donnelly, Ph.D. 1958 Gerard F. Feeney 1959 John P. Keker Gerald M. Knapp
1981 Sergio Belich Gil L. Cosenza 1982 Kevin M. Gori, Esq. Timothy T. Tweedy, P.E.
1983 Richard T. Nolan, Jr., Esq. Richard A. Stewart 1984 Christopher P. Conniff, Esq. Andrew W. Schilling, Esq.
James B. McHugh William Peterson 1988 Nicolas Mahedy John C. McHugh John P. Piccard 1989 John R. Thorburn 1990 Joseph A. Janos 1992 Richard W. Lustig 1993 Daniel C. Steffens 1995 Eric G. Eschenauer Matthew M. Scalzo 1997 George Sinnott 1998 Jonathan Chiacchere 1999 Randy Fernandez Matthew Strong 2000 Raymond Otton Timothy A.Williamson 2001 Liam M. Brennan Mohammed Dieye 2002 John Pfabe 2003 Mark Montaruli
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Class Notes
Compiled by Martin J. Kurzatkowski ’02
1929 This past summer, retired Chemical Engineer Paul Garbo received a letter from the Commissioner for Patents, of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, offering congratulations on his remarkable lifetime accomplishments in the patent field. Paul received his Patent registration number in 1946, has received 65 patents granted for his inventions and continues to submit applications to this day. Congratulations Paul!
1942 Fred Camp and his wife, Marilyn, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Southampton on the Queen Elizabeth II. John Maloney just completed 30 years as a permanent Deacon in New York and 22 years as Chaplain for the Nanuet Fire Department. Felix Suarez celebrated his 80th birthday in September.
played sports at Xavier; in celebration of their friendship, they had beer glasses created this year, inscribed with their names and “Xavier High School Friends for 63 Years.”
1948
1943 Col. Robert F. Hallahan has published a book, All Good Men, a Lieutenant’s Memories of the Korean War. The memoir narrates Robert’s exploits in Korea from July 1950 to December 1951. Rev. Charles Lohr, S.J. just received special commendation from the Jesuit Father General for his fifty years as a Jesuit. Father Lohr is a widely recognized medieval scholar living in Germany. He is a professor at the University of Freiburg and the author of more than twenty books on medieval theology.
1944 Six alumni from the Class of ’44 have been getting together for the past five years at the Jersey Shore. Joe Novak, Frank Dwyer, Bernie Carlin, Jack McCrane, Al Tattam and Joe Dunn all
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50-yard breaststroke, for men ages 70 – 74, at a Senior Olympics meet in Rockford, IL in July. Congratulations! Peter Maloney and his wife, Marilyn, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in October with their six children and eleven grandchildren at the Silver Gull Beach Club in Breezy Point, NY.
“Xavier High School Friends for 63 Years”
1946 Robert A. Fritz and his wife, Patricia, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in June, renewing their vows at a Tridentine Mass celebrated by their youngest son, Father John Fritz. William G. McAuliffe ’45 and Vincent Vella ’48, members of the original wedding party and fellow Xavier rifle team champions, were also in attendance at the celebration.
Karl Faeth is still conducting strength and conditioning clinics at various high schools. Thomas Kennedy recently published Confucian Feminist Memoirs of Zeng Baosun (1893 – 1978). Thomas translated and adapted the book. He retired from Washington State University in 2002 and stays active with square and round dancing, fishing and hiking in Washington, Northern Idaho and Alaska.
1949 A group of graduates from the Class of ’49 held their annual reunion again in September, this year at Paul Curran’s home in Spring Lake, NJ. Xavier President, Father Gatti, S.J. ’59 joined the group this year as well!
1947
1950
Joe Loughlin set a new record for the
Francis Herel retired from KPMG
and is living in Old Saybrook, CT. He keeps busy with babysitting his 13 grandchildren.
1952 Dominic Di Falco is working in Albany as a consulting systems project manager. He recently celebrated the birth of his twentieth grandchild in July. Frank Notaro is retired and living in upstate Newburgh, NY. He and his wife have been working as volunteers for the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh and find it a very rewarding experience.
1954 Col. John V. Ello, USAF retired from the Department of Defense in September 2002, after 46 years of service to his country as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and a Senior Executive with the Department of Defense at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C.
1955 Chris Arvani has returned to North Carolina after spending the summer in Paradise, Michigan. Francis M. Cox III is enjoying retirement, grandchildren and golf! Fred “Rick” Mink is enjoying life as a grandfather. He welcomed
his newest grandson in July. Michael O’Brien has recently joined the University of Phoenix faculty as an Instructor in Sales and Marketing.
1958 Tom Hoar and his daughter visited with Paul LaRuffa ’64 at Margellina, the restaurant in Clinton, MD, that Paul owns.
1959 Tom Fitzpatrick is a public relations consultant and writer in Warrensburg, MO, just outside of Kansas City. In September, a community celebration was held on Martha’s Vinyard to dedicate the new high school library in the name of Gregory T. Scotten, Ph.D., past principal from 1979 – 1999. John Spiegel keeps in touch with Kevin Lawler, who is battling multiple sclerosis at the Allendale Residence for Mature Living. Michael J. Toner and Frank Bongiorno ’61 swam with the Holy Cross Alumni relay team that came in 3rd place in their division in the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim, a 28.5 mile open water event around Manhattan, through the East, Harlem and Hudson rivers. The team swam in honor of the seven Holy Cross
graduates who were killed in the World Trade Center tragedy, one of whom was John Ryan ’74. As it turned out, Frank swam past 16th Street during his last leg of the relay in the Hudson River.
1960 Sal Scarpato is Vice President of Precision Environmental, Inc. which specializes in heat treatment of mold bacteria and viruses.
1961 Bill Borst has been the main contributing editor of the Mindszenty Foundation’s monthly report since January 2003. Congratulations to William Marion, who was the recipient of Valparaiso University’s 2003 Martin Luther King, Jr. Award for significant contributions to the improvement of the racial climate on campus. Fred O’Connor, while attending his daughter’s graduation from LeMoyne College in May, had the pleasure of meeting Father Gatti, S.J. ’59, who was attending the ceremony as well.
1962 Best wishes to Reagan Burkholder, who has retired after 32 years of working in the government, with 17 years as City Administrator in Summit, NJ. Reagan is now consulting. Nick LaRosa, VP of Merchandising at Pet Edge, hired John Rice ’65 as VP of Operations last November. As a matter of fact, half of the Executive Committee at Pet Edge are Xavier alumni!
1963
Father Gatti ‘59, Nancy Nappy (wife of Gerry Nappy ‘49) and Gaspar Cipolla ‘49
Roy Coutinho has accepted a new position as Vice President of Engineering at Unwired Technology in Farmingdale, NY. Congratulations to Ernest DeWald, who was appointed to the Fellowship Test Construction Committee at the Academy of General Dentistry. Ernest was awarded a Fellowship in the Tennessee Dental
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second career!
1967 Alberto Casullo and Giacomo Oliva are colleagues at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Giacomo is a Professor of Music and the Dean of the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts, while Alberto is a Professor of Philosophy.
1969 Greg Belli resides in Austin, Texas, and would like to meet up with alumni from the San Antonio and Waco areas. Frank Bongiorno ‘61, Mike Toner ‘59 and other members of the Holy Cross Alumni relay team
1972 Dr. Ralph Del Colle is an Associate Professor at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Capt. Jack Menendez, U.S. Navy, returned on May 13th after seven months in the Middle East supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
1973 Robert J. Wilke is a Project Manager at William Blanchard Co. in Springfield, NJ. He and his wife have three sons and reside in Nazareth, PA.
1975 Frank Bongiorno ‘61 finishes his first leg in the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim
Association, the highest such honor for service to dentistry and the community. Best wishes to Rob Fernandez, who retired in May 2002 from the Naval Surface Warfare Center after 34 years working as an engineer for the Navy. Rob is currently pursuing a second career as a mathematics teacher in a local high school and at Gulf Coast Community College. Vincent M. Razzore retired as Principal of the John F. Kennedy Middle School in the Comsewogue School District on Long Island after thirty years in education.
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1964 Tom Molino retired from the Army in January 1996 and has embarked on a second career as a Defense Analyst in Science Applications International Corp., SAIC. Tom was recently promoted to Corporate Vice President and Manager of the Leadership and Strategic Analysis Operation.
1966 Conrad Tridente entered his third year as a fifth grade teacher in a Catholic elementary school. He is loving his
Congratulations to Col. Anthony Cucolo III, USA who has been selected for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General. Robert J. Calamunci’s son, Rob Jr., just returned from Iraq while serving in a medical unit.
1976 T.J. Farrell, who serves in the U.S. Army Reserves, has been serving in Iraq since November 2002. He is currently the Battalion Commander of the 724th Military Police Battalion in Camp Bucca, Iraq. T.J. works as an Investment Specialist for Charles Schwab in his civilian profession and he and his wife, Maria, reside in Florida with their three children.
1977 Joseph R. Grzegorski, Senior Quality and Reliability Engineer with the Energizer Co., graduated in May with an MBA from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. Congratulations to Reid T. Muller, M.D. who was promoted to colonel in the Air National Guard. He has temporarily left his cardiology practice to serve in Southwest Asia in support of Iraq and Afghanistan operations. Anthony Sarro and his family have left the Big Apple to settle in Westchester.
1979 Phil Kolb is the Director of Financial Services for the Retirement Group at Merrill Lynch in Hopewell, NJ. Adam Soyer has a private orthopedic practice in Hudson Valley of New York. He and his family were recently featured in a national television commercial for Fleet Bank.
School and was named the New York State “Advisor of the Year” for his work on their Literary and Art Magazine.
graduate work in music composition at the Julliard School.
1986
Andy Irizarry has accepted the position of Eastern Territory Manager with the Warson Group, Inc., and is based in Central New Jersey. The Warson Group, Inc. is the worldwide manufacturing and distributing licensee of Florsheim, Converse and Everlast brands of safety, industrial and uniform footwear.
Maj. Paul Dallemagne is based at the Air Force Reserve station in Scotia, NY. Paul continues to fly missions to Antarctica in December, January and February and to Greenland during the summer months. Jason T. Ramsden and his family have recently relocated from New York to North Carolina, where Jason has been appointed Technology Manager for The Hill Center in Durham, N.C. The Hill Center, an affiliate of Durham Academy, is a leader in educating students who have been diagnosed with learning disabilities.
1991
1992 Kenneth Ritter is serving with the Marines in Iraq.
1998
John Renda, also known as John Crown, is the third lead in the thriller “Sinful Deeds,” which is now available on VHS and DVD from Replay Home Entertainment.
Jim McDonald is looking forward to his 10th season assisting the Xavier Varsity Basketball team. Good luck on the upcoming season!
Jonathan Chiacchere has moved to Chicago and has found his niche within the high school and volunteer living communities. Currently, Jon is teaching a section of U.S. History, and serves as the moderator of the Italian Club as well as an assistant coach of the freshman football team, in addition to his commitments within the Community Service and Pastoral Ministry Offices.
1990
1999
1981
Anthony Colantonio, M.D. was appointed medical director of Meadville Medical Center’s Pain Management Center in Pennsylvania. Anthony completed his fellowship training in pain management at Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland, Oregon and is certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology. Congratulations to U.S. Army Capt. Doug LeVien, who was recently selected for promotion to major according to recent promotion board results published by The Army Times newspaper. He is currently assigned to the U.S. Army Personnel Command in Washington, D.C., as the Captain Assignments Officer for Ordinance Branch. Ray Lustig recently left the world of biomedical research at Columbia University to pursue
Joseph Boyle has maintained a 3.8 GPA for three consecutive years and is currently interning at Warner Music. Congratulations to Kevin Neafsey, who graduated from Fordham University in May. Anthony Read graduated from Hunter College in May and is currently working on obtaining two master’s degrees, in Science & Urban Affairs and Intelligence Studies.
1980
Gerard Armstrong is working for Anheuser-Busch and living in St. Louis with his wife, Kathleen, and their four children.
1983 Congratulations to Wayne G. Quacinella who recently became engaged to Lisa Pirrone! May 2004 nuptials are planned.
1985 Giancarlo Malchiodi recently earned his second master’s degree, in Educational Administration, from Baruch’s School of Public Affairs. He continues to teach literature and writing at Brooklyn Technical High
1987 Congratulations to Kenneth Reilly, who completed his MBA from Columbia University in August.
1989
2001 James Crum is a junior and majoring in history at Penn State.
Alumnews - Fall 2003
25
John B. McCann ’05
“...he was like a brother to us.”
March 23, 1987 - October 6, 2003 The Xavier community was saddened recently by the loss of one of its students. John B. McCann, of the junior class, died suddenly on October 6, 2003 after suffering from acute pneumonia. He is survived by his mother, Xavier science teacher, Sheryle NeufferMcCann, his father, Jack McCann and his older sister, Christine. During the funeral Mass for John at the Church of St. Francis Xavier, Xavier’s Headmaster, Rev. David S. Ciancimino, S.J. ’77, spoke movingly: “We belong to Christ…and I am reminded that belonging makes life possible: belonging to a family, a faith, a school, belonging to a community and a group of friends… belonging makes authentic human living possible – it makes life real. John belonged. Yes, he belonged to Christ, but he also belonged
to loving parents and a loving sister. He had wonderful friends at home, St. Francis, Epiphany and Xavier. One of his Xavier classmates stopped me yesterday in the cafeteria and said ‘Father C. – make sure you say that he was like a brother to us – because he was.’ So I say it. He was friend and brother to many.
had ‘such a good heart’ his mom said to me. He had a great and sensitive heart.
Over the years, John shared his love of skiing and boating with many friends. I saw so many medals and trophies from countless athletic events that he had been awarded. ‘He loved Xavier,’ his dad told me – and we know that – John belonged to us too…wearing his Xavier blazer proudly even now.
Where would we be without God, without our faith? Without the presence and the prayers of so many at times like this? The memorial card at John’s wake has a beautiful image of Jesus embracing a young man in what looks like a depiction of heaven. It’s a warm and welcoming embrace. It’s a comforting image…John in the loving arms of Jesus…That’s an image of John belonging ‘with the Lord’ that we need to hang onto today.”
His teachers will tell you that John had a love of learning, was incredibly bright and intellectually curious. And even as a young man, he was filled with the desire to share his gifts and talents with those around him as he did at Calvary Hospital as a compassionate volunteer. John
Belonging – it fills life with joys and at times, sorrows. Belonging binds us together and helps to make us whole. And Jesus reminds us that all shall be brought to life who belong to Him.
At the conclusion of Mass, John’s mother addressed the congregation of family, friends, teachers and students. The message she conveyed exhibited the intense love of a mother, her strength of character and deep faith. She said to John’s classmates and friends, “I ask you to honor John…strive for excellence, as John did; never settle for mediocrity. Make a positive contribution to the lives you touch and the world around you. You can make a difference. Spread love; it comes back to you. Indeed, it often comes back to you when you least expect it...God bless all of you for loving my son, John.” St. Francis Xavier, pray for him.
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Alumnews - Fall 2003
Mileposts Deaths Student John B. McCann ’05, son of Sheryle Neuffer-McCann, Xavier science teacher, and John McCann, October 6, 2003 Alumni Alfred J. Ciaffone ’26, July 21, 2003 Joseph Schneller ’29, September 16, 2003 Francis X. Carlin ’34, November 2, 2002
Stephen Geness ’71, July 29, 2003
Friends
Carlos Cortez ’90, July 19, 2003 Family
Elizabeth T. Gordon, mother-in-law of Joe Gorski, Director of Advancement, October 6, 2003
Arthur R. Albracht, father of Robert Albracht ’60, July 19, 2003
Births
Myrtle Bertini, mother of Francis Bertini ’61, March 25, 1998
Andrew Christopher Cuonzo, December 2002, Angela and Angelo Cuonzo ’82
Anna Chiarappa, grandmother of Joseph Polak ’02, August 2, 2003 Thomas W. Comer, father of Tom ’90, John ’92 and Dan ’02, September 5, 2003
William I. Conway ’34, December 21, 2002
Ruth Keller, mother of Justin ’72, John ’75 and Stephen ’80 September 2, 2003
Joseph M. McCrane ’42, September 28, 2003
Anthony S. Imbo, father of Mark Imbo ’04, October 17, 2003
John S. Farrell ’43, August 7, 2003
Margaret McCoy, wife of John McCoy ’43, July 11, 2003
Thomas Giordano ’44, June 24, 2003 H. Edward Hess ’45, September 12, 2003 Francis X. Queally ’45, August 4, 2003 William D. Powers ’46, May 30, 2003 John P. Morgan ’48, August 1, 2003 Angelo Mastrangelo ’49, August 29, 2003 Charles Willgohs ’49, August 19, 2001 Francis Wolfort ’49, April 26, 2003 Thomas A. McGovern ’50, May 30, 2003 Jeremiah O’Dwyer ’50, July 10, 2003 Francis X. Moore ’51, August 9, 2003 Andrew Horgan ’58, August 26, 2003
Dorothy Morda, wife of Frank A. Morda ’60, December 4, 2002 Mortimer C. Shea, father of Mortimer ’74, Daniel ’82 and Matthew ’87, March 2003
Margaret Camille Irizarry, October 10, 2003 Megan and Andy Irizarry ’91 Sarah Frances Kenny, May 17, 2003, Susan and Robert Kenny ’77 Gavin Patrick O’Farrell, November 26, 2002, Mary and John O’Farrell ’83 Rebecca Anne Spataro, July 29, 2003, Anne and Christopher Spataro ’89
Weddings Charles Molineaux ’78 and Michelle Marlar, August 9, 2003
Joseph Shuhda, father of John Shuhda ’83, April 2, 2000
David X. Stumpf ’78 and Papaporn Prabnarong, May 4, 2003
Joseph B. Smith, father of Michael Smith ’76, June 25, 2003
John Portelli ’81 and Carmelina Vivolo, November 10, 2002
Salvatore E. Sommella, father of Salvatore ’67 and grandfather of Timothy ’96, August 15, 2003
Caesar Galeano ’83 and Lisa Patala, January 19, 2003
Anne Tweedy, wife of James Tweedy ’48 and mother of Edwin ’70, James Jr. ’71, Thomas ’74, Patrick ’78 and Timothy ’82, October 6, 2003
H. Brian Rice ’61, February 6, 2002
Alfred Villa, father of Carmine Villa ’75, December 17, 2002
John Soldo ’62, February 20, 2003
Emilie Winn, wife of Edward Winn ’56
Mark Chrostowski ’94 and Magdalena Kuznair, July 19, 2003
Alumnews - Fall 2003
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Fall Sports & JROTC Fall Sports The Baseball team played during the fall season this year! Varsity’s first win was against Fordham Prep (6-3). The team also defeated Cardinal Hayes (9-8) while the Varsity Bowling team swept All Hallows, winning 5-0. A personal victory went to Nick Caivano ’06, who broke all C.H.S.A.A. bowling records by rolling nine strikes in a row and ending with an amazing score of 257! He now leads the league in scoring, bringing the JV team to an undefeated 20-0 record. The Cross Country team has been having a successful season. The Freshmen A team posted the 5th fastest time in school history during relays at Fordham Prep while Varsity ran its best time of the year at Eastern States. The JV Football team beat St. John the Baptist (24-13) while Varsity triumphed over Hayes (15-0). Congratulations to the Varsity Soccer team! The team captured the Division Championship with a 2-1 win over Regis. They went on to capture the Archdiocesan Championship against Regis (3-1). One last effort against Iona Prep secured the Division Championship! Congratulations! The JV team was victorious over Mount St. Michael (7-1). Freshman Swimming has had a great season. They have a 3-1 record with wins against Monsignor Farrell, Archbishop Molloy and St. Francis Prep. Congratulations to all the teams!
JROTC Once again, the military science program had a very successful year. Not only did the X-Squad win second place in the Brigade Drill championship, but also the Raiders in its first year of competing won third place in the League competition, beating several more experienced teams. The Spring Review was replaced with a very successful Spring Awards Dinner, highlighted by the return of two ’91 grads, Joe Deglioumini and John Giordano, both captains in the U.S. Army, and guests of the regiment for the evening. The year ended with 30 cadets going to the annual Summer Camp Keystone at Ft. Indiantown Gap, with senior Nicholas Tobia and junior Jonathan Carbajal being selected as Honor Graduates among 200 cadets from 13 schools. —MAJ Ronald D. Grandel, USA (Ret.) 28
Alumnews - Fall 2003
XAVIER HIGH SCHOOL
C AR R AFFLE We invite you to take a chance for Xavier!
GRAND PRIZE 2004 SUBARU Forester (Arrangements provided by Beltway Buick-Subaru)
OR
$15,000.00 CASH!! Drawing to be held at Xavier High School
JANUARY 23, 2004
$20.00 PER TICKET Winner must be 18 years of age or older. Winner need not be present. Winner will assume all responsibility for State and Federal Taxes and all licensing and registration fees. All proceeds to benefit Xavier High School. TICKETS CAN NOW BE PURCHASED ON-LINE AT www.xavierhsalumni.org/raffle2004 CLIP & MAIL TO: Xavier High School Advancement Office 30 West 16th Street New York, NY 10011-6302
For additional information call:
212.924.7900 x1436
Enclosed is my check for $_____________to purchase __________(number) of tickets at $20 each. Your VISA/MASTERCARD is accepted. __________________________________ Card Number_____________________________Expiration Date__________ Your Signature
Indicate the name to appear on each ticket. Prize will be awarded to party listed below. Name_________________________________________________________________Class of______________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________________ City__________________________________________State____________________Zip Code_____________________ Phone No. (
)__________________________ E-mail ____________________________________________________
Your ticket stub will be mailed to you.
Xavier’s Legacy Helped by Annuities Estate planning offers many opportunities to make a tangible and long lasting difference here at Xavier. Annuities are an estate planning vehicle that benefit not only the students of Xavier, but also you and your family. In brief, here are some of the advantages in making a gift to Xavier through an annuity: 1. Xavier will supply you with an income for life that will never decrease in size or frequency, no matter how the economy or stock market performs. 2. Your gift will be free from estate taxes. 3. You can provide for your spouse or other beneficiary through a charitable gift annuity. 4. Most importantly, your gift will help provide the means for Xavier to continue our mission of educating young men in the Jesuit tradition. To find out how to make a charitable gift annuity or to learn more about planned giving opportunities, please feel free to call Bill Reidy ’94 at 212.924.7900 x1611
Alumnews Calendar Young Alumni Luncheon & Football Rally
November 26, 2003
Washington, D.C. Reception
December 10, 2003
Kairos Alumni Mass Reunion
December 22, 2003
Class of 2003 Reunion
January 8, 2004
Beefsteak Dinner
January 23, 2004
Florida Receptions
February 26—March 5, 2004
Boston Reception
March 25, 2004
Visit the Xavier Web site at www.xavierhs.org for further information.
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