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HOBAN A YEARINSTALLS LIKE 12TH PRESIDENT NO OTHER. TO THE WORLD WE ARE JUST A SCHOOL, TO EACH OTHER WE ARE FAMILY.
A YEAR LIKE NO OTHER.
A publication for alumni, parents and friends of Archbishop Hoban High School
TO THE WORLD WE ARE JUST A SCHOOL, TO EACH OTHER WE ARE FAMILY.
A publication for alumni, parents and friends of Archbishop Hoban High School A publication for alumni, parents and friends of Archbishop Hoban High School
HOLY CROSS VALUES + MISSION We are a Catholic high school in the Holy Cross tradition. DIVINE PROVIDENCE EXCELLENCE We celebrate our diversity, value each person, and welcome one EDUCATING HEARTS AND MINDS another with the hospitality of Christ. INCLUSIVENESS As a family of learners, anchored in gospel values, we empower DISCIPLINE each other to grow spiritually, develop intellectually and reach out in service to others. OPTION FOR THE POOR HOPE Within an innovative and orderly learning environment we are FAMILY committed to challenging each student in both heart and mind to be a compassionate individual, a lifelong learner, and a responsible ZEAL steward of God’s creation. INTEGRITY
TWO HOBAN MOCK TRIAL TEAMS ADVANCE Mock trial students, guided by teachers and volunteer legal advisors, participate in an original, unscripted simulated trial written by attorneys. High school students argue both sides of the case in preparation for the statewide competition. Each year volunteer attorneys create an original case around a current constitutional issue important to students. This year’s case was about the government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Each of our teams argued both sides of the case in front of a panel of real judges and attorneys. In order to move on from the district level each team has to win both trials or win votes from a majority of the panelists from both trials. This year, two out of Hoban’s three mock trial teams won their trials and are advancing to the regional competition, including a team composed of students new to mock trial this year. Varsity team that is advancing (top): Dominic Henry, Charlie Hite, David Deibel, Sawyer Huckabee, Jack Folk and Grace Fricker. The first-year team that is advancing (bottom): Erica Leslie, Khori Davis, Logan Adams, Lindsay Henry, Lola Snyder, Maximo Sferra, Abigail Chirdon and Kevin Elliot.
ARCHBISHOP HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2021-22 CHAIR William A. Scala ’71 President, Kenmore Construction
HOBAN
inside this issue
Magazine
President's Message
2
VICE CHAIR Arthur P. Sunday Vice President of Sales, The House of LaRose, Inc.
Campus Happenings
3
Cover Story
6
SECRETARY Steven A. Dimengo ’79 Managing Partner, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLC
Student Success
10
The Holy Cross Educator
18
TREASURER T. Mark Yakubowski Chief Financial Officer, The House of LaRose, Inc.
Principal's Message
20
Athletic News
22
Alumni Knight Life
32
In Memoriam
34
Extravaganza
36
PRESIDENT Christopher DiMauro ’99 Archbishop Hoban High School
Hoban, Cleveland Browns bless the Wentz Family Foundation Fields at an all-school assembly
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Rev. Michael Ausperk Parochial Vicar, St. Francis Xavier Parish, Medina Richard C. Fedorovich ’70 CEO and Managing Partner, Bober Markey Fedorovich Brother Kenneth Haders, C.S.C. Provincial Superior, Midwest Province, Brothers of Holy Cross Stephen Hammersmith Partner, Buckingham, Doolittle & Burroughs, LLC David Kunce CFO, NMG Aerospace Richard May, M.D. ’79 Physician, NEONA, Inc.
27 students recognized by the Scholastic Art and Writing Competition
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Brother Joseph LeBon and Brother Edward Libbers celebrate 60th Jubiliee
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ON THE COVER Chris DiMauro ’99 was installed as Hoban's 12th president at an all-school Mass.
James D. McCool ’77 Retired, Charles Schwab Derrick B. Owens ’89 Vice President of Government Affairs, WTA–Advocates for Rural Broadband Kathleen Piker-King, Ph.D. Professor Emerita, Sociology, University of Mount Union Jeffrey Salamon President, Lumis Group Joseph P. Siegferth ’70 Policy Consultant, NEOLA, Inc. Patricia (Bralek ’77) Wartko Retired, Don Wartko Construction Lewis "Bud" Wentz President, Wentz Financial Group DIRECTORS EMERITI William H. Considine ’65 Retired, Akron Children’s Hospital Alice (Maher ’76) Luse Retired, American Heart Association Rev. Paul J. Rosing Pastor, Holy Family Parish David Showers ’64 President, Strausser Development
The Hoban Magazine is published twice a year by the Office of Advancement for alumni, parents and friends.
Christopher DiMauro ’99, President T.K. Griffith ’89, Principal Laura Jo (Marcinkoski ’83) Hawk, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Melanie White, Director of Communications Photography by: Scott Dudek, Micah Kraus, Andy Pfaff–Lyons Photography, Melanie White and Vicki Zingale
ARCHBISHOP HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL | 1 HOLY CROSS BLVD., AKRON, OH 44306 | 330.773.6658
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear Hoban Family, Greetings from the Castle! In the blink of an eye, the first academic semester has passed, and we find ourselves in the early days of 2022. It would be an understatement to suggest my unabashed excitement for the year ahead – the eagerness is much grander in scope and the enthusiasm is difficult to put into words. Despite the many challenges that undoubtedly lie ahead, Hoban is primed to thrive in the new year. With the highest standard of excellence for our performance, and with unwavering faith in our Holy Cross mission, we are determined to charge confidently into 2022. Hoban will continue to lead, serving as a transformative model for society. Firmly rooted in tradition, yet ready for the trials of the 21 st century. I believe the changing of the calendar invokes the unlimited potential inside of us. It is for this reason that many people consistently take on new year’s resolutions, our own personal attempt in becoming just a little better than we were last year. Our school community has so much for which we can be proud. That said, there is always room for us to grow, constantly striving to actualize Blessed Basil Moreau’s vision of a Holy Cross education. For Moreau, this was an experience that genuinely “transforms minds and hearts.” As an educator, I’m not sure if there is a greater ideal for which to endeavor. Over the past several months, much work has been done to lay the groundwork for success in the new year. Many of you have provided feedback about your Hoban experience. I have enjoyed meeting with students, parents, educators, and alumni to hear firsthand their opinions about how we can improve. It is apparent that each person involved in those listening sessions did so with an open and honest heart for the genuine improvement of our community. From those discussions and with other data-driven information, Hoban will create a new strategic plan to guide our efforts in prioritizing our attention and resources. I am so proud of our students and Holy Cross educators for the work ethic they have displayed since August – much of that work evidenced throughout this publication. They rise to every occasion and do so with kindness and grace in their hearts. I am grateful to act as a small player in this community of learners, one that has given me infinitely more than I could ever repay. We have big plans for 2022 and hope that you, our Hoban family, will continue to support us on this journey. True to You, Chris DiMauro ’99 President 2 \
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OVER THE PAST SEVERAL MONTHS, MUCH WORK HAS BEEN DONE TO LAY THE GROUNDWORK FOR SUCCESS IN THE NEW YEAR.
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CAMPUS HAPPENINGS
DR. CLARK OF HOLY CROSS INSTITUTE AT ST. EDWARD'S VISITS Dr. Marco Clark, executive director of Holy Cross Institute at St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas, visited several Holy Cross schools, including Hoban in the fall. During his Nov. 11 visit, Clark toured the school, met with administration and student leaders and surveyed several classes. Mrs. Mary (Duffy ’83) Bulgrin's freshman religion class shared Hoban's history with Clark, a topic that is covered in the course. As executive director, Clark and the Institute work directly with 18 primary and secondary schools and eight colleges and universities sponsored by Holy Cross in 14 states in the U.S. The Institute also supports the international education community of Holy Cross which spans 16 countries and five continents. During a meeting with five student ambassadors, Clark informed them that there are currently 110,000 students attending Holy Cross schools.
"You're becoming forces for good," Clark said. "I get goosebumps thinking about the impact. If 110,000 students are all going out to be disciples of hope to bring and as forces for good, that changes the world." Clark knows well the Holy Cross tradition and education. He was taught by the Brothers of Holy Cross at Bishop MacNamara High School and earned his undergraduate degree in psychology and English from the College of Holy Cross. Early in his career, Clark worked as a teacher, guidance counselor, club moderator and coach. Throughout his early career he also held various other roles including director-level positions in admissions, guidance and curriculum development. In 1997 he was appointed principal of his high school alma mater, Bishop McNamara, and in 2010 was named the President/CEO. The Institute, under Clark's direction, strengthens the Holy Cross values and mission in all schools and is a resource to school leadership.
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B L E S S I N G A N D D E D I C AT I O N O F T H E
WENTZ FAMILY FOUNDATION FIELDS During an all-school assembly and celebration, Hoban blessed and dedicated the Wentz Family Foundation Fields with members of the Wentz family, Cleveland Browns, Akron community and Hoban student body. The event celebrated the completion of the $1.1 million capital project that resurfaced the school’s grass athletic fields located on Black Street. The newly established Wentz Family Foundation Fields include two lined, high-quality synthetic turf playing fields and softball field. An initial $250,000 grant from the NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, made possible through the Browns partnership, was awarded to help finance the resurfacing of one field. Hoban leveraged that grant to raise the additional funds necessary to resurface a second playing field and softball field. As a result, the Wentz Fields impact a much larger number of student-athletes, both at Hoban and among Akron community youth athletic leagues.
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"The motto for our family foundation is be part of the solution, not the solution, but part of the solution," Bud Wentz said during the event. "The purpose is to help whenever we see an opportunity to make children's lives better, safer, healthier and create opportunities to live their best lives. When Coach Tyrrell approached me and explained to me that it wasn't only going to help Hoban students but the entire community by creating a place for children to have a safe environment, we felt it was an absolute perfect fit." The new fields not only accommodate busy practice schedules for Hoban athletics, but also provides a safe and clean environment for Akron community youth league student-athletes to practice and compete. Cheryl Stephens, president and CEO of East Akron Neighborhood Development Corp., attended the blessing and dedication, representing the youth athletic leagues and the City of Akron's partnership with Hoban.
HOBAN.ORG/WENTZ-FIELDS
"I was delighted when Hoban's leadership asked me to write a letter of support to the NFL because you are our future," Stephens said. "We hope you to do more than we do. We want to see you be bigger, better, stronger. Make this school and our greater Akron community bigger, better and stronger."
An all-school pep assembly was held following the blessing and dedication. Hoban students created a school-wide Tik Tok video, the dance and cheer team performed and the 2020-21 state championship teams were recognized, including boys golf, football, baseball and dance, which won two state titles.
Browns representatives Darrell Taylor and offensive lineman Drew Forbes attended the event. Since May of 2016, the Haslam and Johnson families and Browns Give Back have been dedicated to providing Ohio communities with new field surfaces, focused on enhanced educational opportunities by promoting student engagement through youth and high school football, additional sports and other activities. Hoban's project is the 11th field installment in the past five years.
ABOUT NFL FOUNDATION GRASSROOTS PROGRAM The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program is a partnership of the National Football League Foundation and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation to provide nonprofit, neighborhood-based organizations with financial and technical assistance to improve the quality, safety and accessibility of local athletic fields. The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program provides grants of up to $250,000 for capital improvement projects.
"The student-athletes, this is the reason we do what we do," Taylor said. "There are so many opportunities that exist because of the game of football, because of soccer, golf, etc. So, continue to do great things on the field as well as in the classroom."
Parks and ball fields can serve as tremendous community assets because they offer opportunities for recreation, education and relaxation that contribute to the local quality of life, especially for young people. Since 1998, the NFL Foundation Grassroots program has awarded more than $46 million in grants for more than 336 projects nationwide. HOBAN MAGAZINE
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COVER STORY
HOBAN'S 12TH PRESIDENT
CHRISTOPHER DIMAURO ’99
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honor of a lifetime. IT IS MY VOW TO EXHAUST MYSELF IN upholding the standard of excellence THAT HAS BEEN SET BY THOSE WHO HAVE COME BEFORE ME, AND TO PASSIONATELY lead our school into a future of possibility. — President Chris DiMauro ’99 RETURNING TO HOBAN IS THE
After serving at Hoban for several months, Christopher DiMauro ’99 was officially installed as Hoban’s 12th president on Nov. 1. William Scala ’71, chair of the board of directors, and Brother Ken Haders, provincial superior of the Midwest Province of Brothers of Holy Cross, inducted DiMauro at an all-school Mass and installation ceremony. The Rev. Michael Ausperk, Parochial Vicar of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Medina and Hoban board member, celebrated the Mass on the Solemnity of All Saints. The Mass was concelebrated by the Rev. Matt Jordan ’08, assisted by Deacon Ramon DiMascio, theology teacher at Hoban, and Deacon Raymond Herrick ’68 of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. In his homily, Ausperk spoke about superheroes and how “we are like superheroes and hopefully want to imitate them because they use their superhuman strength to do good for others. "More than superheroes, the Feast of All Saints celebrates the ‘God-heroes’ of our church," Ausperk said. "As children of God, we are to imitate the saints by using the strength of our faith in Christ to build God’s Kingdom of love and service for others.” Haders recognized the members of the board of directors present as well as the Hoban leadership staff and student council members as they directly assist DiMauro in his role as president. Haders spoke of the importance of unity, comparing it to the construction of a palace. “It is not one alone who builds,” Haders said. “Nor is it one stone or one single beam of wood that forms it. Unity, then, is a powerful lever with which we can move, direct and sanctify the world.” The installation and blessing of DiMauro then took place as well as the presentation of the ceremonial mace and chain of office. After Mass, DiMauro addressed the congregation, citing what a “tremendous and humbling honor” it is to address the Hoban family in his new role. He spoke of the many changes in his life and at Hoban since his time as a student, but also the many constants that have helped shape and guide him. He examined three main constants in his life and reminded all that, “even though you might lose sight of their importance from time to time, it is the persistent, loyal and faithful constants in our life that help us to define who we are and where we are going.”
DiMauro first focused on the constant of family, thanking his family for their support, encouragement and guidance. He then stated that family can mean many different things. “Family can also mean friends, colleagues, teammates and others in our life that make a difference, DiMauro said. “They show up for us time and time again, no matter the circumstance and no matter the burden it might place on them.” While focusing on the second constant of mentors, DiMauro quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson. “Our chief want in life is to have somebody who will make us do all that we can.” DiMauro stated that many of his most pressing and important questions in his life were answered, “subtly and sometimes not so subtly,” by the “powerful men and women” in his life who guided him. DiMauro thanked his Hoban mentors in attendance: Brother Dennis Bednarz, Brother Ken Haders, Dr. Mary Anne Beiting, Ralph Orsini and T.K. Griffith ’89. “Your love for Hoban and Holy Cross have inspired me to return to my alma mater to continue the great work that has come before and to ensure its vibrancy into the future,” DiMauro said. DiMauro’s final constant of faith and belief is one that is central to the mission of Hoban. He quoted St. Joan of Arc by saying, “One life is all that we have, and we live it as we believe in living it, but to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.” He spoke to the student body about using their faith and Holy Cross values to grow and overcome tests in life. “Today, rooted in faith, we celebrate Mass and our Hoban family– trust me when I say that this is an incredible privilege that deserves great honor and reverence,” DiMauro said. “Returning to Hoban is the honor of a lifetime. It is my vow to exhaust myself in upholding the standard of excellence that has been set by those who have come before me, and to passionately lead our school into a future of possibility.” DiMauro, Holy Cross educators and guests in attendance attended a reception after the Mass and installation ceremony in Moreau
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Q&A WITH PRESIDENT DIMAURO ’99 WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE BEEN LIKE AS PRESIDENT SO FAR? In one word, rewarding. It has been an incredible blessing to reconnect with members of the Hoban community who continue to prioritize the advancement of our school and care deeply about students and their wellbeing. AS A HOBAN ALUMNUS, IN WHAT WAYS IS HOBAN THE SAME AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED? In my estimation, Hoban has grown leaps and bounds in its ability to continue to provide a cutting edge, 21st Century education. At the same time, our time-honored traditions and high standard of excellence for all students are still very much intact. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO USE YOUR PAST EXPERIENCES TO PROPEL THE SCHOOL FORWARD? I think it is important to honor our traditions and all the incredible Hoban family members who laid the foundation for what we enjoy today. That said, it is also vital that our current students, families and Holy Cross educators continue to propel our school forward, creating unique opportunities for students to excel. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS TO CONTINUE TO ADVANCE AS A 21ST CENTURY ACADEMIC INSTITUTION? We are in the early stages of studying a capital facilities project that would update all the classrooms in our main corridor with new technology, furniture, carpet, paint, LED lighting and other cosmetic improvements. Further, we have a strong desire to build a new student center that will replace Foley Commons as the predominant large group meeting and cafeteria space in the building. I think it is important to provide our students with a comfortable, updated atmosphere where they can enjoy time with their friends and teachers. 8 \
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WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN YOUR NEW ROLE? Creating new relationships with members of the Hoban community and promoting the great things that are happening on our campus every day. WHAT ARE YOUR MOST PRESSING PLANS FOR THE HOBAN COMMUNITY? Most pressing is the desire to communicate the leadership team’s vision for Hoban’s future in several important areas. Most notably academic achievement and student wellness/climate. WHAT HAS YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH HOBAN ALUMNI BEEN SO FAR? Hoban alumni are incredibly supportive and consistently show up for us time and again. They are selfless individuals who make great sacrifices to ensure Hoban’s vibrancy. WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT THE HOBAN COMMUNITY SO FAR? Reconnecting with our students and seeing their incredible passion for Hoban, witnessing the Hoban community and their commitment to acts of service for those in need. Finally, watching our Holy Cross educators interact with students in their classrooms. WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Human potential, servant leadership, opportunities for authentic lifelong learning. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU? Helping others to reach their full potential, overcoming challenges, seeing others become energized by a vision.
INSTALLATION MASS AND CEREMONY OF PRESIDENT CHRISTOPHER A. DIMAURO
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STUDENT SUCCESS
TEACHING THE ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET BY: JASON DZIK, DIRECTOR OF THE MCCOOL CENTER
When you wander into the McCool Center for Entrepreneurial and Leadership Studies for the first time it feels as though you are entering a different kind of space. What captures your attention is what you see written on the board, the walls, the back closet and even the windows. You won’t find formulas, timelines or sentence diagrams here. Rather, depending on the day, you may see identified problems that students at Hoban face: “The lunch lines are too long!” “There are no places to grab some food or something to drink after school.” “Wearing a polo under a sweater is hot and uncomfortable.” “iPads are never charged!” “It can be difficult for freshmen to make friends…” These problem statements, as noted by students, have come from days spent brainstorming, walking around the school and paying close attention to other students. Should you walk into the room later in the week, you’ll find a series of proposed solutions to the identified problems: “A pre-order system to cut down the lunch lines” “A student-operated café for coffee and snacks in the morning and after school” “A Hoban collar without the shirt to wear under a sweater" “Power banks for rental” “Events and an app designed to bring students together to have fun and make friends…” Each solution will be vetted through a validation process involving both designing and carrying out creative ways to elicit peer feedback. The idea is not a smash hit? That’s fine! Student groups will be all too
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eager to begin the process of OBT: Observing, Building and Testing once again. Eventually, better solutions will surface, and preparations for pitching their ideas will begin. On pitch days, the groups will dress professionally, step on stage and explain their business ideas to a panel of judges, usually made up of Holy Cross educators. Their hearts race, but they have been trained to expect that. They have learned some powerful techniques for taking the nervous energy they feel and directing it into delivering articulate and captivating presentations. The groups deliver and the judges deliberate. A winning team is announced and applauded. While this team receives prizes and bragging rights, all teams will be given support and encouragement to turn their ideas into reality, which some will excitedly do. Yes, at the age of 17, they will have started a business. If asked, most would likely define entrepreneurship as simply starting a business. According to Ace Epps, director of inclusive entrepreneurship at Bounce Innovation Hub and a regular guest speaker in Hoban’s entrepreneurship classes, “entrepreneurship is the process of looking for problems, finding ways to solve them and successfully marketing your solutions to an audience.” The task of seeking and solving problems is at the heart of what we teach through the McCool Center. Any average high school student can complain about the problems they face. Students with the entrepreneurial mindset don’t complain, they get to work. They consider ways to serve others by solving problems in creative and
HACK 21 Hoban entrepreneurship students won second place in "Hack 21," a local high school competition that challenged students to problem solve and present solutions to create a "You" campaign that addressed community divisiveness. Christian Parker, Kimora Greenwood, Amelia Plaspohl, Kaitlyn Struckel and Micah Rice won out of 10 teams from five schools.
efficient ways. They seek validation for their ideas by talking to potential customers. They create minimum viable products to see if what they learned holds water. They successfully pitch their ideas to the right people to raise money and start a business. Perhaps most importantly, they shrug off failure as simply part of the learning process. Overcoming failure may be the most important ingredient learned. The entrepreneurial mindset is about overcoming fear, tuning in to others' needs, unleashing creativity and making an impact in all areas of life. It builds empathy, grit, leadership, perseverance and communication skills. It is empowering, and it is exciting. And fortunately, it can be taught. In the McCool Center, entrepreneurship class can be a hopeful experience for many students. There are no slide shows, long lectures or traditional quizzes. Students learn the art of presentation through improv activities to help them be more expressive in front of a group. They explore their personal leadership style through group activities. Inspiration can be found everywhere. Students explore campus in search of pain points, such as ways to speed up the traffic flow in the morning and afternoon. They visit Bounce Innovation Hub to see a small business incubator in person. They listen to successful local business owners talk about their trials and successes as entrepreneurs. They problem solve with random objects: “Create an original product that will help your teacher stop forgetting his water bottle so often!”
Throughout the year, entrepreneurship students compete in both local and national competitions aimed at entrepreneurship, leadership or problem-solving. All the while, they, and every other student at Hoban are encouraged to share their ideas, validate them and bring them to life! This style of learning and teaching, creates an energy at Hoban. Students are engaged with the material and with one another. They resonate with excitement by what they are doing and gain important life skills through the process. Their phones are, for the moment, an afterthought. As the bell rings, most students head for the door, seemingly energized and eager to put their lessons to practical use. Most days, a few students stick around to ask questions. As a teacher, what energizes me the most is when average students, who don't always shine in class among their peers, are motivated to apply themselves. For those students, learning entrepreneurship makes sense because it's relevant, meaningful and experiential. For possibly the first time in their educational journey, they feel smart and successful. Regardless of your previous academic standing, students who take entrepreneurship are on an equal playing field. It's a different kind of learning – one that offers the freedom to dream, to innovate and create! Welcome to entrepreneurship at Hoban. Welcome to the McCool Center.
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HOBAN CAST
FALL PLAY PRESENTS CLUE: ON STAGE The fall play Clue: On Stage was presented November 6-7. Under the direction of Erin Bennett, Hoban's theatre teacher, the fall play was the first production under "normal circumstances" since March 2020. "Though students were on stage performing last year, we were limited to fewer cast and crew members, mask mandates and limited audience numbers," Bennett said. "This year, we had more student opportunities both on and off stage and close to 500 people in attendance. The students thrived on having an energy-charged audience in the auditorium." "Clue: On Stage" is described as a “murder-mystery comedy thriller” that follows six guests at a mysterious dinner party where they find themselves implicated as murder suspects when their host turns up dead. Wadsworth, the butler, leads Mrs. Peacock, Mr. Green, Colonel Mustard, and the other dinner guests in their attempt to find the killer as the body count builds. Following in the footsteps of the film, the project bills itself as a “comedy whodunit.” "The enthusiasm towards this production from both the cast and crew was refreshing," Bennett said. "Not only did they all love the script, but they came together as a great ensemble and worked hard on their individual roles. The fall show was a success and has added to the anticipation for "Shrek," our spring musical." 12 \
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Colin Doss ���������������������Wadsworth Piper Kolasky ����������������Yvette Ava Branz ����������������������Miss Scarlet Kelly Brumbaugh ���������Mrs. Peacock Eden Nichelson �������������Mrs. White Trever Behrend �������������Colonel Mustard Elena Plaspohl ��������������Professor Plum Jude Yovichin ���������������Mr. Green Hannah Bulgrin ������������The Cook Parker Smith ����������������Mr. Boddy Wynter Gibson �������������Extra Game Players Biz Savitski �������������������Extra game Players Madison Watson ����������Extra Game Players Grace Kostko �����������������Stage Manager Emma Boring ���������������Assistant Stage Manager
SCHOLASTIC ART AND WRITING COMPETITION Twenty-seven of Hoban's visual art students were recognized in the 2022 Scholastic Art and Writing competition. Hoban participated in the Northeast Central Ohio Art Region category this year.
Of the 2,100 individual entries, thirty-four Hoban students received recognition for their artwork, including 12 Gold Keys, 15 Silver Keys and 57 Honorable Mentions in categories ranging from drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, digital art and comic art. Gold Key awarded artworks will be judged on the national level, with the potential to be included in an exhibition in New York City.
Isolation, Jenna Fioritto
Black Cat, William Seabrook
Smoke Stack, Reagan Jackson
Transcendence, Jacob Hier
A Different Beautiful, Zoie Gilliam
Red Sofa, Collin McDermott Untitled, Grace Kostko
El Gato, Alexis Kraft
The Man Behind the Net, Collin McDermott
Guiding Light, Spencer Rettkowski
Gothic Lolita, Alexis Kraft
Teapot, Jacob Hier
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SENIOR RECEIVES PRESIDENTIAL SERVICE AWARD Senior Grant Waller was awarded the President's Gold Volunteer Service Award after volunteering more than 250 hours with The Dane Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports and raises awareness for people with disabilities. The President’s Volunteer Service Award honors outstanding volunteers and recognizes their impact on communities. During his time with The Dane Foundation, Waller helped with the planning and execution of several special events, including the Ms. Wheelchair USA. "Volunteering has drastically improved my social skills and personal connections as I met interesting and emotionally inspiring people throughout the experience," Waller said. "I plan to continue to serve for them."
PROJECT HOPE RECEIVES JUSTICE AWARD At the 43rd Annual Bishop Cosgrove Justice Dinner on Nov. 19, Hoban's Project HOPE program received the Rose Juriga Memorial Youth Justice Award. Seniors Maddie Mlachak, Komal Dhillon and Sawyer Huckabee and junior Jack Folk attended the dinner to accept the award on behalf of the Project HOPE program. "I am grateful for this opportunity because it has taught me lessons that I'll carry on throughout my college career and my life," Dhillon said. "I've learned how to accept others who might be different, how sometimes they just need you to listen to their story and how there is always something you can do to help others." The award recognizes students and organizations who are positive forces for promoting change in their communities, demonstrate a strong commitment to social justice and reflect a spirit of solidarity with the poor. "I started volunteering with Project HOPE as a freshman because I had to get service hours," Folk said. "But after my first visit, I was completely hooked. There had always been a void in my life and Project HOPE filled that. Now, as a team leader, I have met so many people, and I have seen the impact a simple act of kindness can make – not just giving them food or blankets or water – but truly getting to know them. Serving has helped me grow in my faith and as a person."
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ABOUT PROJECT HOPE Project HOPE, which stands for Hoban's Outreach for Peace and Equality, was launched in the fall of 2008. This ministry continues to enable students, faculty, staff and other volunteers to share food and fellowship with members of the Akron community who are experiencing homelessness or other hardships. An estimated 5,000 Hoban community members have worked together, volunteering their time, donating food and offering monetary donations to serve between 75–90 meals each week. Every Wednesday, after school and throughout the summer months, students and volunteers meet in the cafeteria kitchen to prepare a meal, depart by school van to visit people in largely unseen corners of the Akron community and return to the Hoban campus around 7 p.m. Students spend most of their time engaging in conversations, making friends and serving food to those they meet.
ARCHAEOLOGY STUDENTS EXCAVATE HISTORICAL CEMETERY Students in Jason Anderson's archaeological studies class traveled to the Butler-Morgan Cemetery in October for a twoday, graveyard archaeological dig. It is an abandoned 18thcentury cemetery located south of Wooster. While the exact location and number of graves is uncertain, there are at least three Revolutionary War soldiers buried in the cemetery. The students were tasked with verifying and marking the locations of graves.
Over the two-day field experience, Anderson and his students gridded and excavated the area to locate grave shafts in conjunction with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Moreland Historical Society. The class verified nine graves, five of which were unmarked. Following the excavation, the students prepared a final report to the ODNR and the Cultural Resource Management office in Columbus.
2021-22 EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION INSTALLED After training from the Diocese of Cleveland, 20 seniors were installed as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Mass celebrating the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021. Catholic high school students can apply in the spring of their junior year to serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion during their senior year. Students are chosen by the campus ministry office based on faculty and parish priest recommendations. Upon installation at their home parishes, they may minister there as well.
Students commissioned at Hoban by the Rev. Michael Ausperk were Jackson Alexander (St. Hilary), Rachel Alexander (St. Hilary), Ella Ben-Porath (Guardian Angels), Julia Cheney (St. Hilary), Natalie Cook (St. Paul, North Canton), Andrew Hardman (St. Francis de Sales) Elizabeth Hardman (St. Francis de Sales), Olivia Hawk (St. Matthew), Morgan Hirsch (St. Francis de Sales), Lilly Jacknewitz (St. Sebastian), Reagan Jackson (St. Hilary), Lily Jaroch (St. Sebastian), Caleb Kepler (St. Augustine), Michael Noe (St. Barnabas), Juliana Parisi (St. Hilary), Sophia Patterson (St. Paul, North Canton), Elizabeth Russo (St. Francis Xavier), Matthew Sandor (Sacred Heart), Sophia Stahl (St. Sebastian) and Alana Zurowski (St. Francis Xavier). HOBAN MAGAZINE
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HOBAN HONORS VETERANS AT SCHOOL ASSEMBLY Hoban observed Veterans Day with an all-school assembly in Barry Gym on Nov. 11. Chair of the social studies department and history teacher Jason Anderson hosted the event, which welcomed 35 veterans to school for a reception prior to the assembly. Ceremonies included the Advancing and Retiring of the Colors, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, reading the Gettysburg Address, singing My Country 'Tis of Thee and playing Taps. Mr. Robert Yanko presented the history of Veterans Day.
AP CHEMISTRY TECHNOLOGY Diane Vrobel's honors organic chemistry students used Hoban's benchtop NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) system, a sophisticated instrument that uses radio waves to excite molecules for analysis. It uses a magnet to unify the field around the sample for a good signal - similar technology to MRI. The spectra are used to assist students with identifying molecules that they synthesized in the lab.
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THREE SENIORS RECOGNIZED BY NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP In early September 2021, seniors Sawyer Huckabee and Stephen Matko were announced as National Merit Semifinalists. They are still able to be named National Merit Finalists, which will be announced in February. Students who score in the top one percent of the PSAT achieve the distinction of National Merit Semifinalist.
Jude Yovichin was also designated a Commended Student. "Hoban is proud to have a rich tradition of naming students recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program," T.K. Griffith, principal, said. "In the last five years, 45 students have been recognized."
HOBAN.ORG/NATIONAL-RECOGNITION
HOLIDAY DONATIONS Each year, Hoban takes part in several donation drives to help the community. Each opportunity supports and illustrates Hoban's commitment to "reach out in service to others." Leading up to Thanksgiving, the annual canned food drive resulted in a collection of 8,759 food items. The food was donated to six area organizations that help those in need. "The organizations greatly appreciate the donations as they help fill their shelves during the holidays, a time that is often difficult for many families," said Kelsey (Ott ’07) Sees, Hoban's campus minister.
Hoban students and educators donate bags of donated Christmas gifts for local families.
It was a close competition, but the seniors took first place in the canned food drive, bringing in more than 2,200 items. Michael MacDonald's
fifth-period class also won a challenge, bringing in 276 cans on the final day of the drive. Hoban also sponsors a "No Shave/Bundle Up" campaign in November. With a $20 donation, students can grow facial hair and wear sweaters and Hoban hoodies during the month. This year, $4,500 was donated to the Ronald McDonald House in Akron and the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation. Lastly, National Honor Society coordinated Share-a-Christmas in which Hoban students and Holy Cross educators purchased Christmas gifts for 30 local families. The gifts were given to the families through HM Life in Summit County.
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HOLY CROSS EDUCATOR
HOLY CROSS EDUCATOR
MICHELLE AGNONI CENTRAL OFFICE
MANAGER AND ATTENDANCE COORDINATOR “Michelle embodies the Holy Cross core value of Family in all she does at Hoban. She balances humility, humor and goodness equally well in serving the Hoban student body as perhaps the most important person in the building in the lives of the students on many days." – T.K. Griffith ’89, Principal
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WELCOME TO HOBAN For the past eight years, Michelle Agnoni has looked out the doors of the central office as rounds of students make their way through the halls of Hoban. As head of attendance, she strives to make the office a place where students can enthusiastically and comfortably visit throughout their school day. “My goal is to make students feel welcome and comfortable in the office," Agnoni said. "That is what I try to instill. Coming to the school office should not be an intimidating experience.” As a mother of two Hoban graduates, Agnoni effortlessly steps into a motherly role for students throughout her day. At any given moment, she can be seen helping a student with a ripped pair of pants, calling a family member for a student who doesn't feel well or simply keeping watch in the hallways during class change. There is no such thing as a typical day in the central office. "We're all here for the kids – that's what a school is...it's the kids, Agnoni said. "I most appreciate the times, like the first day of school, when the student body is whole. There is an electricity in the building when everyone comes back." Agnoni began her journey at Hoban in July 2014, when her daughter Cori (’17) was entering her freshman year. Soon after, her daughter Monica (’20) joined the Agnoni ranks, deepening Hoban’s rich family traditions. Cori is now in her first year of law school at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, and Monica is a sophomore at Saint Mary's College in Notre Dame, Ind. Prior to working at Hoban, Agnoni served as the secretary at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School. For nearly 10 years, Agnoni has been the face of the Hoban. She is often the first person to greet students, Holy Cross educators and families, and is known for working tirelessly to embody the Holy Cross core values. “Educating hearts and minds encompasses not only teachers, but everyone working at Hoban," Agnoni said. "We are all here to help with the formation of students' hearts and minds. It’s not only taught in the classroom. Anything I can do to reinforce the values students are taught at home and in the classroom is what I try to do."
"Michelle embodies the Holy Cross core value of Family in all she does at Hoban," said Principal T.K. Griffith ’89. "Often, she serves as a second Mom to many students during the day...shepherding them and looking after the details of their busy schedules...caring for them like they were her own. She balances humility, humor and goodness equally well in serving the Hoban student body as perhaps the most important person in the building in the lives of the students on many days." Agnoni also appreciates witnessing the students interacting with the active Brothers of Holy Cross who work in the building. She believes that it truly brings the Holy Cross values into fruition, and creates exemplary opportunities for the students to deepen their faith. "We are blessed to have two active Brothers at Hoban," Agnoni said. "It's important for us all to uphold the Holy Cross values to make sure the work and legacy of so many Brothers lives on." Some of Agnoni’s favorite memories at the school revolve around her experience with the students. Mum Day, her favorite Hoban tradition, never ceases to amaze her, even after eight years. “It never fails to bring the goosebumps when you hear H on 3,” Agnoni said. Mum Day encapsulates all that she loves about the school. It brings everyone together as a family and creates enduring memories for the students. According to Agnoni, this family dynamic is what makes Hoban stand out as such a special school. “It’s the kids. The kids, the families, the people – that make Hoban such a unique environment," Agnoni said. “That’s why I love my job. It’s because of the kids. Whether they’re still in the building or whether they’re not – even after you graduate or your children graduate, you are still a part of Hoban.”
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
HOBAN OPENS DOORS Forty-five years ago, Hoban announced it was closing its doors forever. The balance sheet looked bleak, enrollment was down and the leadership just could not muster the will to go on. They nearly gave up. Thankfully, a small group of students, parents and alumni stepped up to rally the community and save Hoban. My late father, Tim Griffith ’66, was a small part of this effort. He, a few friends and many devoted parents, students and alumni started the Alumni Association and the first-ever alumni golf outing the following year. The momentum started by a few resulted in a domino effect that made Hoban what it is today. My father was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award in the early 80s, and I know he was proud of being a part of the "Save Hoban" campaign. The success of those involved with the campaign is a reminder that we DO make an impact. We CAN make a difference. History has moved on, but this memory means something to us who love Hoban. I often reflect with gratitude on that group of Knights who saved Hoban. Many of you and your family members have given back to Hoban too! I often wonder what our lives would be like if Hoban had closed...because Hoban has raised many of us, it’s given us life, humbled us, molded us and challenged us….but really has blessed us time and time again by allowing its goodness, its mission, its 20 \
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people and its authenticity to impact and breathe life into our hearts and souls. The students and Holy Cross educators create this synergy. Both groups have worked hard to have a wonderful first semester this year. Our educators have adapted and adjusted when needed. They continue to roll with the punches. They continue to open doors of possibilities for students. When one door closes, another opens. This well-known aphorism rings true many times in our lives, but I’ve found in my role at Hoban that open doors actually lead to more open doors than closed doors might. These people mentioned–the ones who saved Hoban “kept the door open” for us. St. Brother André Bessette comes to mind as the original Holy Cross “door-opener.” He started as a doorkeeper at the College of Notre Dame in Canada. He simply opened doors for people in distress and eventually became a saint. Opening the door is not easy. Letting people in is often hard to do. Whether it’s insecurity, fear of judgment, safety, busyness or just fatigue, the closed door can often create a sense of comfort and security. It may allow us to “get our work done” or “stay safe” or “mind our business.” Certainly there is a time for it.
Once a Knight ALWAYS A KNIGHT GET INVOLVED
BENEFITS
Hoban is reinventing the Alumni Association. We need your help to make it a meaningful and effective part of our Hoban community. Connecting with other alumni has never been so accessible through virtual meeting channels. Alumni around the world are encouraged to join, reconnect and make a difference for current and future Hoban Knights through volunteerism.
But the true work is in human relationships, authentic presence and shared struggle. The Hoban classroom, in my life, has been the penultimate example of this open door concept. The spirit of openness…of doors and hearts…that our educators and students exhibit cannot be overstated. We are blessed to witness this community take shape and grow each day. The beauty of the classroom relationship has much to do with the space that blossoms through an open door. That shared space allows for conversations, vulnerability and eventually reciprocal growth. At times, even the bad days of conflict can produce fruitful outcomes. Those of us in the “offices” don’t always enjoy the daily organic interaction of the classroom. Personally, I miss that aspect immensely. But our door is always open, even if just metaphorically, for you at Hoban. We need places like Hoban in society to open doors. Like it or not, we all face a ton of challenges and obstacles. Without schools like Hoban, so many of us would not win the battle of the soul. Hoban and our Holy Cross tradition gives our students a strong guardian angel to fight this battle and it serves as a lighthouse that constantly guides us on our journey.
1. - Provide feedback to improve the alumni - experience 2. -Connect with other Hoban alumni 3. -Receive special invitations to Hoban - events and activities HOW TO JOIN Register at hoban.org/alumni and take the alumni survey or email the Office of Institutional Advancement at advancement@hoban.org.
The power of teaching, coaching or serving as an ambassador or administrator is a blessing and opportunity that we do not take lightly. I hope we can breathe life into these Holy Cross values each day in our work and use our collaborative energy to keep opening doors. To do this, we must immerse ourselves fully into the Hoban family. We must sacrifice “self.” This Bible passage resonates with me when I need to be reminded of what it takes to impact community: "Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. Anyone who loves their life will lose it..." – John 12:24-25 Thank you to all who impacted the Hoban family and left your imprint here. You embody this scripture’s theme in your daily journey as servants of God. Like Brother André, you open doors for society. Like he taught us, we will open doors with the hospitality of Christ. T.K. Griffith ’89 Principal
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HOBAN HIGHLIGHT REEL
GIRLS TENNIS MAKES HOBAN HISTORY Coming off one of the most successful seasons in Hoban history, the girls tennis team is carving out their legacy at Hoban. Gary Innes, head coach, has worked hard to instill a team culture of constant improvement. His extensive background in the sport comes from his playing at a high collegiate level and coaching experience all over the country, ranging from academies to country clubs. In his second year as the Knights boys and girls tennis head coach, Innes credits the girls team’s success to hard work, helping them to continually improve despite having a more difficult and competitive schedule than last year. The addition of Claudia Behrens ’13 to the coaching staff also made a huge difference to the team environment. "Claudia graduated from Hoban and knows the culture of the school and created a positive environment for the girls to learn," Innes said. With personal improvement as a constant goal, the team saw results and also strengthened friendships among the team in the process. Sophomore Campbell Miller, who was injured this season, continued to attend every practice and match, without requirement, to support her team. 22 \
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“I wanted to see how my teammates grew throughout the season,” Miller said. “We are very supportive of each other. We push each other to be the best we can be, and we don’t want any potential to go to waste.” Team captain, Angela Thompson, who is in her junior year, also emphasizes the importance of camaraderie to strengthen the bond between teammates. “This year, we were close,” Thompson said. “Last year, with COVID, it was difficult for the team to get together. We emphasized team bonding and had a cohesive team experience.” The team’s successful season led to four student-athletes – freshman Haley Slay, sophomore Kate Wenzlik and juniors Elizabeth Savitski and Angela Thompson – making it to the OHSAA Div. II district tournament. Slay also qualified for the state tournament – the first freshman in Hoban history to do so. Through their training and constant strive for improvement, the team was able to reap their victories. Innes credits the Hoban strength and conditioning team as an asset to the team through strength training and team bonding.
COACH GARY INNES Born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, Gary Innes competed as a top junior before coming to the United States to play for Walsh University.
“The team works out together twice a week,” Innes said. "The strength and conditioning coaches Mike Winkler and Maddie Diestel ’14 help instill a healthy relationship with working out. They help the girls understand their physical movements, how to strengthen their bodies, how to stretch and how to recover. And, on top of that, working out is a powerful team-building experience.” The effort the girls put in this season resulted in much success on the court, but also provides many transferable life skills. Through the sport, the student-athletes not only learn to play the sport, but they also acquire new social and leadership skills.
“It’s going to be an opportunity for them when they are adults someday and have to move to a new city,” Innes said. “They can take their tennis racket and meet new people. They are going to have a skill that has the potential to open a lot of doors for them, not only from a health and physical perspective but from a social standpoint.”
“Through tennis, I’ve learned communication and leadership skills that transfer well to the classroom,” Thompson said. “As captain, I’ve had to give a lot of pep talks and I’ve learned how to take and receive advice.”
With such a young team, Hoban should be competitive next year under Innes's direction.
Coach Innes also encourages the benefit of tennis as a life sport. Beyond athletics, it’s a skill that the students can carry with them, and acts as a vehicle to make new friends.
He captained the team to three national tournament appearances and achieved a national ranking of 14 for doubles. After competing, Innes pursued a career in coaching and moved to Connecticut. He worked in private clubs and academies, where he was able to help juniors learn to love the game and achieve high levels of tennis success. Innes specializes in junior development and is a Master of Tennis certified professional, one of the highest accolades a coach can achieve through the USPTA and the PTR. Innes directed tennis programs on the East Coast for eight years before moving to Northeast Ohio to direct the tennis program at Portage Country Club. During the off season he is part of the USTA coach development team and works with some of the best coaches in the country on training aspiring coaches at the National Tennis Center. Innes is also the project director for the Tennis Congress, which has won industry awards for most innovative event of the year.
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FALL SEASON RUNDOWN BOYS GOLF
The varsity boys golf team, led by Head Coach Quinn Parker, ended the season as OHSAA Div. I state runner up. Hoban finished just six strokes shy of first place with a 597 score and four student-athletes in the top 21.
FOOTBALL
For the sixth time in seven years, the Hoban Knights football team played in the state championship. Under the tutelage of Coach Tim Tyrrell, the team earned the OHSAA Div. II state runner-up title. The Knights' season ended in a 21-10 loss to Winton Woods at Canton's Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Hoban weathered a tough schedule with a final record of 12-4, losing to Bergen Catholic, St. Ignatius, St. Edward and Winton Woods.
FALL SPORTS
GIRLS TENNIS
The Knights girls tennis season resulted in four student-athletes qualifying for the OHSAA Div. II district tournament – freshman Haley Slay, sophomore Kate Wenzlik and juniors Elizabeth Savitski and Angela Thompson. Slay also qualified for the state tournament, and is the first freshman in Hoban history to make it to the states in tennis. Overall the team ended with a record of 9-6. [SEE PREVIOUS PAGE FOR FULL ARTICLE] 24 \
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From the fall sports season, 15 student-athletes have been nominated as player of the year by the Greater Akron High School Sports Awards. Winners will be announced this spring. The Greater Akron High School Sports Awards is part of the USA TODAY High School Sports Awards, the largest high school sports recognition program in the country. Seniors De'vonta Baskerville (football), Charlie Durkin (football), Keshawn Haynes (football), Markim McKinnie (football), Solomon Petrie (boys golf) and Josh Sarver (boys soccer); juniors Nolan Haynes (boys golf), Drew Holt (football), Jason Martin III (football) and Lamar Sperling (football); sophomores Lauren Mahoney (girls soccer), Jordan Pritchard-Sewell (football) and Jack Vojtko (boys golf); and freshman Haley Slay (girls tennis).
THREE NEW COACHES JOIN HOBAN Hoban is excited to announce the hiring of three new head coaches. Coach Kevin Yun has been named the new softball head coach, Coach Jim Maloof ’89 was hired as the girls volleyball head coach and Coach Abbey Golden is the new head coach for the girls soccer program. Each coach joins the Hoban community, bringing significant experience and successful results throughout their coaching careers. Yun joins Hoban after coaching 10 years at North Canton Hoover as a varsity assistant. He has been a part of three state championships and a state final four appearance during his time there. In addition to coaching at Hoover, he has been a head coach in travel softball for the past 15 years, most recently with the Ohio Outlaws organization.
KEVIN YUN
Yun is a native of Canton and a graduate of Malone University, where he played baseball and earned All MOC honors during his junior and senior seasons. He also played eight years of Class A baseball and was an all-star six times. In 2014, Yun was inducted into the Stark County Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame. Yun’s dedicated service to the softball community and his commitment to discipline and excellence serve as a perfect match for Hoban. Hired as the head coach for girls volleyball, Maloof brings 24 years of coaching experience at the collegiate, high school and club levels. Most recently, he was the head varsity coach at Tallmadge High School, where he led the team to back-to-back district championship victories and an appearance at the district finals in the last three years.
Varsity girls soccer head coach Golden attended and played soccer at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif. She has served as head coach of Cleveland Futbol Club for the past six years, leading the team to be ranked in the nation’s top 50 and second in the state. Golden has also coached at several high schools and was an assistant coach at Oberlin College. As head coach at Berea Midpark High School, Golden led the team to win the 2019 district championship and was named coach of the year. Her passion and energy for helping ABBEY GOLDEN female student-athletes reach their full potential connect well to the Hoban mission.
JIM MALOOF ’89
In 2021, Maloof was named the OHSVCA Coach of the Year for District III, Division II. Maloof graduated from Hoban in 1989 where he was the class’s salutatorian and has 20 years of competitive playing experience, both indoor and sand volleyball. Maloof represents the “lifelong learner” espoused in the Hoban mission statement.
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Five alumni were inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, Class of 2021. The inductees were recognized at the Walsh Jesuit vs. Hoban football game during Come Home to Hoban alumni weekend and celebrated at the induction ceremony on Sunday, Sept. 5. HOBAN.ORG/ATHLETIC-HALL-OF-FAME
WILHELM (WIL) SCHWARZINGER ’68
Wilhelm (Wil) Schwarzinger ’68 excelled on the football field and the hardwood in the midlate ’60s as a versatile defensive back, quarterback and punter for Coaches Tony Paris and Tom Batta on the gridiron and as a sharpshooting guard under Coach Chuck Kelly on the basketball court. In football, Schwarzinger roamed the defensive backfield on a unit that allowed just 7.1 points per game in 1966 and finished 9-1 with a Top 10 AP state ranking. Taking over as quarterback for the Knights and Batta in 1967, Schwarzinger guided the Hoban attack as a dangerous runner and passer, leading the squad to a 7-1-2 mark. He maintained his role on the stingy Knight defense as well, earning 1967 All-City accolades as a defensive back on an outfit that yielded just 9.2 points per game.
KAREN (GODZINSKI ’89) DIMASCIO Karen (Godzinski) DiMascio ’89 was a shining star on several of Hoban’s greatest volleyball and softball teams in the late '80s.
A three-time volleyball letterwinner for Hall of Fame Coach Mary Howard, DiMascio was the team captain on the 1988 OHSAA Class AA state runner-up squad. The ’88 season saw DiMascio earn numerous accolades, including the Akron Beacon Journal and Greater Akron Touchdown Club Volleyball Player of the Year awards and First Team All-Ohio recognition. DiMascio was a standout outfielder for the Knights softball squad and Coach Mary Ann King, helping the team win OHSAA Class AA state championships in 1986 and in the “perfect” 34-0 season of 1987. She earned All-Summit County and All-Northeast Ohio recognition for her softball performance in 1989.
Schwarzinger was an equally crafty engineer for Hoban on the basketball court, leading the Knights in scoring in 1966-67 (300 points, 14.3 points per game) and 1967-68 (306 points, 16.1 points per game). An All-City selection his junior and senior seasons and a team captain in his final campaign, his 606 career points and 111 career 2-point field goals both ranked second in the Hoban annals upon his graduation.
DiMascio took her volleyball talents to the University of Akron, where the Godzinski family name peppers the program record book. A four-year starter for the Zips, DiMascio served as the team captain in both 1991 and ’92 and earned team MVP honors in 1992. DiMascio was named to multiple All-Tournament teams during her collegiate career and was an Academic All-Mid American Conference selection in 1992.
Schwarzinger was offered a football scholarship to the University of Akron, but chose instead to walk-on to the Zips basketball squad. His gamble paid off almost immediately, as Schwarzinger deposited 10 buckets in 11 attempts in his first game. The fourtime letter-winner was a starting guard on the 1971-72 team that reached the NCAA Division II finals, finishing as the national runners-up with a 26-5 season mark. That Zip team, which also featured two fellow Hoban alumni: Wil’s brother Karl as well as Paul Mesko, is recognized in the University of Akron Hall of Fame as a “Team of Distinction”. Schwarzinger earned Academic AllAmerican status in 1971-72 and was inducted in the UA Hall of Fame in 1992.
Among her numerous records accumulated at Akron, DiMascio currently ranks number one in Zips volleyball history in career digs (2,007), second in sets played (615) and single-season sets played (188), third in single season digs (599) and fifth in career service aces (172). Her career sets played tally places DiMascio in the top 15 in the NCAA record book.
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TONY BEITING ’99
Tony Beiting ’99 was a two-sport standout for the Knights, serving as the catalyst for the football and basketball squads in the late '90s as quarterback and guard, respectively. A three-year football letterman, he was at the helm of Hall of Fame Coach Ralph Orsini’s squads in 1997 and ‘98, guiding the team to the program’s first playoff appearance and postseason victory in the 1998 season. Beiting’s senior gridiron campaign saw the signal-caller throw for 1,665 yards and 21 touchdowns, earning First Team All-City and Honorable Mention All-District honors while leading the team to a 10-2 mark. For his career, Beiting tossed 30 scoring passes and amassed 2,699 aerial yards, both tops in the Hoban annals at the time. Beiting was also a three-time letterman on the basketball court for the Knights and Coach T.K. Griffith ’89, serving as a guard on the 1998 OHSAA state runner-up squad and on the undefeated regular season team that earned the AP state poll title in 1999. Known as a reliable scorer and a tenacious defender, Beiting finished his career with 477 points and his 80 steals in the 1997-98 campaign still ranks in Hoban’s single-season top five records. An Honorable Mention Plain Dealer All-Star and Summit/Medina All-Star Game participant in 1999, Beiting garnered the squad's “Clutch Performer” and “Golden Knight” awards his senior year. Beiting continued his football career at John Carroll University, tallying 2,609 passing yards and 32 career touchdown passes as quarterback for the Blue Streaks. He earned Honorable Mention All-Ohio Athletic Conference honors in 2003 and ranks in the JCU Football Top 10 for career passing scores (32) and yards per completion (14.5).
MAURA (BULGRIN ’07) LEMON
Maura (Bulgrin ’07) Lemon was a running sensation during her time at Hoban and beyond. A four-time letter-winner in both cross country for Coach Joe “Peach” Zampino and track for Hall of Fame Coach Joe Lutz, Lemon was a wire-towire outstanding performer. A two-time team captain in cross county, Lemon qualified for the state meet all four seasons (200306), placing as high as fifth in 2004. Lemon was named to the Academic All-Ohio team three times (2004-06).
Lemon’s distance running prowess was on display on the Hoban track as well, as she qualified for state three times (2005-07), served as team captain in 2007, earned Team Distance MVP honors each of her four seasons and was a three-time Academic All-Ohio selection (2005-07). Lemon continued her running career on the collegiate level at the University of Dayton, where she earned four letters on the Flyer cross country team. She earned the program’s MVP award three times and was named an All-A10 Conference “Most Outstanding Performer” in 2010. She ranks third on the Dayton Women’s Cross Country All-Time list in the 5K (17:19.0) and 6K (20:57.75), with both marks standing as program records upon her graduation. On the professional circuit, Lemon is the 2016 Akron Half Marathon Champion and the 2018 Toledo Marathon Champion, shattering the course record in the latter event. In 2018 she qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Qualifier Race.
LAUREN (MCNEIL ’10) MENGLE
Lauren (McNeil) Mengle ’10 was nothing short of dominant from her spot on the pitcher’s mound for the Hoban softball team from 2007-10. A two-time team captain for Coach Mitch Wagner’s squads, Mengle was twice elected to the All-Ohio First Team (2009, 10), was a four-time selection to the All-North Coast League and All-District squads and was the North Coast League MVP in 2008. Mengle ended her pitching career for the Knights with 65 victories and 45 shutouts. Her 941 career strikeouts ranks in the top 20 in the OHSAA record book. Mengle continued her softball and pitching career at Kent State University, where she lettered for the Golden Flashes four times from 2011-14. Her college softball honors include the NFCA Scholar Athlete Award (2011), the Mid-American Conference Commissioners Award (2012 and 13) and three-time Honorable Mention All-MAC accolades (2011-14). Mengle led the Golden Flashes in appearances (29) and strikeouts (63) in 2011, and her 94 career appearances ranks eighth all-time in the KSU record book.
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CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF SERVICE
BROTHER ED LIBBERS AND BROTHER JOSEPH LEBON By: Mary Anne Decenzo
Brother Joseph LeBon was influenced to become a Holy Cross Brother as a high school student attending Cathedral High School in Indianapolis. LeBon joined the Hoban teaching staff in 1965 and has served at Hoban his entire career except for one year when he was assigned to Holy Cross High School in River Grove, Ill. Throughout his career, LeBon has taught religion, math, French, Latin and computer programming. He also advised The Visor, the student newspaper and yearbook. He is still serving the school in the communications office, maintaining the Hoban website. "I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to the Congregation of Holy Cross," LeBon said. "The community has provided me with my religious formation and college education, as well as the opportunity to serve the Church in the ministry of Catholic education over many years. Working with youth has helped me stay young." LeBon's longevity at Hoban has been a gift not only to the students but to those he has worked alongside. He can easily recount moments in Hoban's history such as the first Mum Day, the near closing of Hoban's doors in 1976 and the year Hoban became co-ed.
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Six years after professing his first vows to become a Holy Cross Brother, Brother Edward Libbers was assigned to teach chemistry and math at Hoban. He was on staff from 1967 to 1995, and returned in 1999 after a brief assignment at Holy Cross High School in San Antonio, Texas. After 53 years of active service, Libbers retired in 2016. He continued to serve as a volunteer at Regina Health Center, a faithbased skilled nursing and assisted liivng center in Richfield, until the pandemic closed the volunteer program. "I have been inspired by many brothers in my lifetime," Libbers said. "They have been role models, leading truly holy and faithfilled lives. I have been blessed with their friendship and support. Another blessing has been the privilege of being a teacher for so many years. Interacting and influencing the lives of so many young students has been special. I hope to remain in education as long as I am physically able." Hoban alumni fondly remember having Libbers for class. Infamous stories of Libbers unexpectedly squirting students with his water bottle, lessons in chemistry and words of advice such as, "Keep it simple, stupid," are often called to memory during conversations about Libbers. In short, Libbers helped countless students on their pursuit to becoming doctors, nurses, lawyers, engineers and teachers.
BROTHER JOSEPH LEBON AND BROTHER EDWARD LIBBERS
ACADEM IC
H A L L
In recognition of their unyielding service, Hoban will dedicate the second-floor science hallway in honor of Brothers Joe LeBon and Ed Libbers. Together, they have served Hoban for nearly 90 years, making them the longest-serving Brothers in Hoban history.
Good day…good day…good day…as you ducked his sprays from either his water bottle or the fire extinguisher! And great answer…wrong question. Both Brother Ed sayings. I had Brother Joe for freshman computers. Br. Joe drew perfect circles with his eyes closed on the chalkboard. God Bless all of the Brothers as they’ve educated both my mind and heart at Hoban! —Amy Jo (Clark ’92) Givens
I had the good fortune to be one of the first female students at Hoban as a junior in the fall of 1973. I remember Br. Joe’s geometry class seating chart, although I didn’t figure it out until the 3rd quarter. Alphabetical the 1st quarter, then arranged by your academic standing in the class with the top student closest to the back door and rest of the class seated in horizontal rows with the most struggling student directly in front of his desk. He truly had the patience of Job to teach geometry. Br. Ed was definitely the most dynamic teacher I ever had. I’m convinced you had to be sick, drugged or near dead to not pay attention in his class. A few weeks into that fall quarter, he asked a friend (also female) and me to come see him at the end of the day. We were puzzled, but went as requested. He asked us if his classroom tactics were too hard on the girls. Our response, “No, you’re doing just fine. Be yourself.” I’m eternally grateful to Brother Ed for getting me through college chemistry. Had I not had so much of what he taught I would have never passed a class presided over by a professor who was not fluent in English. I probably wouldn’t be a nurse if I’d failed that course! Both of these dedicated men have touched many lives, helped shape the future and continue to make a difference for all of us. —Rosemary (Pianalto ’75) Dutkevicz
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A blessing and dedication will be held on Saturday, March 19, beginning with Mass at 3 p.m. and a reception to follow. All are welcome to attend but reservations are required for planning purposes. Please visit hoban.org/hall-of-honor to register. "Read the problem! Read it again!" Was a great aid through many years of engineering. Thank you, Brother Ed. "Gallium tres pars divisum est." Thank you, Brother Joe. May the good Lord continue to bless you both. Congratulations on your Jubilee. — Thomas Solinski ’73 Ageless, Timeless, Selfless! Thank you for your dedicated service and inspirational teaching! "Reeeeead the problem!" -Brother Ed "Watch me draw a perfect circle." -Brother Joe —Thomas Novitsky ’75
Thanks, Brothers Joe and Ed. Your technical expertise enabled me to get to work on cutting-edge technology and your humor and energy reminded me to find humor in life every day by breaking up monotony. I wish you were still there to teach my children. I can only imagine how many minds you've guided on their path and what projects you helped create. —Robert Scherer ’87
Congrats to both of you! I really didn't want to take Latin but my mom signed me up and Brother Joe made it my favorite class! Brother Ed made chemistry so fun I thought I'd want to study that for the rest of my life. Turns out, I followed in both their footsteps and became a teacher. Now I strive to find that balance they always had of teaching my students while also having fun with them. Thank you for your service! — Stephanie Surblis ’13 HOBAN MAGAZINE
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DIANE (JACKSON ’84) AND MICHAEL WHALEN CARRYING ON A TRADITION OF SERVICE AND GIVING BACK
Diane (Jackson) Whalen graduated from Hoban in 1984. A few years after graduation, she moved to Cincinnati where she eventually would marry and start her family. Now, 34 years later and despite the distance, she continues to keep the lessons learned at Hoban and the memories she and her friends made close to her heart. While at Hoban, Whalen was a student-athlete and she was involved in various activities. “Back then, we lived at school,” Whalen said. “It wasn’t uncommon to be at school from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., either at my activities or waiting for my older brother, Jim (class of ’83) to finish one of his. We stayed busy during those hours in between and it was embedded in us to help others however we could.” The Hoban lesson of helping others is still present in Whalen. She continues to spend much of her time volunteering in Cincinnati with Hope’s Closet, which supports foster families so they can in turn support the children in their care. “I am fortunate to have had two amazing parents who adopted four children,” Whalen said. “My two brothers, sister and I were all adopted into a fun and loving home. I was in a foster home for a very short time as an infant before being adopted. This is what drives my passion for Hope’s Closet. I want every single child to feel that same sense of love and security that I was incredibly blessed with.” When she is in the Akron area, Whalen also volunteers at Katie’s Kids, a nonprofit that was founded by a Hoban classmate, Lori (Drapcho ’86) Eckelberry, and her husband Jim. Katie's Kids was
created in memory of their daughter Kaitlyn who was tragically killed by a drunk driver. Katie’s Kids provides children in Stark County with targeted financial assistance to allow them to participate in activities with their peers. With two adult daughters, Diane and her husband Mike wanted to make sure the traditions and teachings that made a difference in their lives continued for generations to come. With that in mind, they created a planned gift to Hoban, making the school a beneficiary of their estate trust. “Hoban is the root of who I am now," Whalen said. We raised our kids to be involved in service, and want that tradition to continue. Whether it was tutoring elementary kids, the canned food drive or through service hours, Hoban taught me to give back in every way. The majority of my friends are still Hoban alumni, even after living in Cincinnati all these years. We’ve watched each other get married, have kids, consoled each other when our parents have died – we have been through a lot and have always been there for each other. I think that says a lot about Hoban. Hoban has given us such an incredible gift through those friendships. That’s why it was important to me to give back to Hoban. I can’t even begin to imagine what my life would have been like without Hoban.”
WHEN YOU CREATE AN ENDOWED SCHOLARHSHIP, YOU CREATE A PERMANENT LEGACY OF SUPPORT FOR ARCHBISHOP HOBAN HIGH SCHOOL. Endowment assets are invested, and each year, a portion of the value of the fund is paid out to support the fund's purpose, and any earnings in excess of this distribution are used to build the fund's market value. In this way, an endowment fund can grow and provide support for its designated purpose in perpetuity. Q: How much money does it take to start an endowed scholarship? To establish a named endowment fund, there is a minimum outright commitment level of $10,000. This amount can be paid over a period of up to five years. If, after five years, the fund has not reached the minimum outright commitment level, any funds remaining will be folded into the General Endowment Fund. Q: What else is needed? An endowment agreement is needed between the donor and Hoban to permanently define the purpose of the fund. The agreement also outlines the standard procedures for managing endowment funds.
For more information on scholarships and gift planning, contact your financial adviser or LAURA JO (MARCINKOSKI ’83) HAWK at 330.773.8620 or email hawklj@hoban.org.
Q: Can my lawyer prepare my endowment agreement? The Hoban Trust Fund uses standard language for endowment agreements to ensure consistency in management of the funds. As we work with you to establish the endowment, we will discuss your preferences and suggestions with you. Q: Is there an endowment agreement or a minimum gift level to give to an existing endowment? No. You can make a gift of any size to an existing endowment fund without signing an endowment agreement. There may be an existing endowment that reflects your interests and to which you can add your support. Also, donors who have established an endowment fund in the past, may continue to make gifts to them over time. The larger a fund is, the more impact it can have each year. HOBAN MAGAZINE
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ALUMNI KNIGHT LIFE Update your information and submit content to be published in the Hoban Magazine.
Visit hoban.org/AlumniUpdate to notify us of your recent changes and accomplishments (i.e., career and professional achievements, weddings, births, awards, etc.) to be included in the magazine. You can also email the editor of Hoban Magazine at whitem@hoban.org. Accompanying photographs can be submitted for publication in the magazine and will be used at the discretion of the magazine staff.
1960s
Andrew Sprungle ’05, CPA, MBA accepted a new position as director of risk and controls, N.A. for VMLY&R Commerce, a creative commerce company.
Donald Mullen ’67 and his wife Karen celebrate 50 years of marriage in February. Their son Derek is a 1993 graduate.
Zia (Snyder) Dean ’06 accepted a position as assistant director of creative services at Catawba College in Salisbury, NC.
1980s John Alexander ’81 started a new position as business development executive, power/energy at GPD Group. He also serves as vice president of the board of directors for the Cleveland Engineering Society, which is the oldest professional organization of its type in the country, dating back to 1880 and located in NE Ohio. Marlon Primes ’82 joined Brennan Manna Diamond as a partner in the Cleveland office. As a former Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, Primes has experience handling a wide variety of complex civil litigation in state and federal courts. He has transitioned to co-chair of BMD’s Business and Tort Litigation Practice. He celebrated 37 years as a soldier in the U.S. Army Reserve on Jan. 6, and was promoted to the rank of Colonel on July 31, 2020.
1990s Tim Harvey ’91 and Mike Schmidt ’92 are veteran Akron police detectives and featured in the newly-released book "The Least of Us" by best-selling author Sam Quinones. In 2015, they uncovered the supply of Chinese produced fentanyl being shipped to the US, and more specifically to Akron, Ohio. Their discovery led to an international investigation and the indictment of two Chinese nationals - a major event that was covered on national news.
Sasha Fanny-Holston ’07 accepted a position at Kenyon College as the assistant director of the diversity equity and inclusion office.
Kristin Bernert ’92 was named president of business operations for the Columbus Crew soccer club. Bernert will direct all business endeavors for the Crew, including fan engagement and marketing; community partnerships and impact; game experience and facility management; ticket sales and services; corporate partnerships and overall revenue generation; and organizational administration. Bernert spent 10 years in executive roles with Madison Square Garden Sports, rising to executive vice president of business operations in 2018. She led business initiatives for all MSGS teams and affiliates, encompassing the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, Westchester Knicks, Hartford Wolf Pack, Knicks Gaming and Counter Logic Gaming. She left MSGS in April 2021 to found her own agency, KB2 Sports. Bernert worked as a corporate sales representative for the Cleveland Indians from 2000 to 2002. She has also served as an assistant marketing director at Ohio State (1997) and an assistant athletic director at Bowling Green (1998-2000). She holds a master's degree in sports management from Ohio State and has a bachelor's degree from Siena College, where she appeared in 106 games with 59 starts at point guard for the Saints. She was also named as a Notable Woman in the Business of Sports by Crain's New York Business in 2019.
2000s Emily Fatkins ’01 accepted a new position as research manager for Surgery Research Administration at the University of Chicago. Michael Allio ’02 talks about his experience on "The Bachelorette" on the "Now You Know Akron" podcast. Allio discusses his run on the popular show, his newfound friendship with Canton native and "Dancing With The Stars" cast member Amanda Kloots, and much more.
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Mitchell Kolesar ’07 accepted a position as mergers and acquisitions attorney with Buckingham, Doolittle and Burroughs, LLC.
2010s
2020s
Katherine Caprez ’12 accepted a position as the director of communications and engagement for the Ohio Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs. Among other responsibilities, the Alliance maximizes the impact of Clubs across the state and drives partnerships with state government.
Carolin Koerber ’20 is an accounting student at Walsh University and accepted an internship with Cohen & Company, starting in January.
Alexander Sprungle ’07 and his wife Alison welcomed their daughter Winnie on Nov. 20. Bronlynn Thurman ’08 was honored as the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Region 2’s Public Citizen of the Year. She is a program officer at GAR Foundation. Angela Rizzo ’17 accepted a position with the Cleveland Cavaliers on The Foundation Sales Team as an Account Executive, Organizational Business Development.
Deamonte "Chip" Traynaum '20 is transferring to Ohio State to play linebacker in 2022. He attended and played for the Sun Devils of Arizona State University at running back but entered the transfer portal as a three-star player on Nov. 29.
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IN MEMORIAM
ETERNAL REST GRANT UNTO THEM, O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. MAY THE SOULS OF ALL THE FAITHFUL DEPARTED, THROUGH THE MERCY OF GOD, REST IN PEACE. AMEN. The following notices have been received July. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021. Please email advancement@hoban.org to notify us of a death within the Hoban community.
1950s William "Bill" Hesse, Class of 1957 died June 14, 2021. Bruce Nicewander, Class of 1957 died July 12, 2021. Neil Oliver, Class of 1957 died Oct. 6, 2021. Grandfather of Michael DiMauro ’23. Lawrence "Larry" Martin, Class of 1958 died June 18, 2021. Brother of Frank ’60, James ’61 (d) and Br. David ’62 Martin.
George Marusiak, Class of 1966 died July 19, 2021. Father of Eleanor Marusiak ’87. Gary Flasco, Class of 1967 died Nov. 2, 2021. Brother of Ray Flasco ’68.
Andrew Schank, Class of 2009 died Oct. 1, 2021. Spouse of Megan (Capitena ’09) Schank.
1970s
Friends of Hoban
Michael Wilson, Class of 1971 died Nov. 24, 2021.
Leah Agnoni died Nov. 30, 2021. Auntin-law of Hoban employee Michelle Agnoni. Great aunt of Cori ’17 and Monica ’20 Agnoni.
Steven Kirkbaumer, Class of 1974 died July 4, 2021. Brother of Joseph Kirkbaumer ’81.
Jerome Van Oss, Class of 1959 died Sept. 23, 2021. Brother of Jeffrey Van Oss ’63.
1980s
1960s
Peter Johnson, Class of 1981 died June 17, 2021.
Theodore "Ted" McDermott, Class of 1964 died Nov. 21, 2020.
Barbara (Bush) Weil, Class of 1985 died Nov. 7, 2021.
Thomas P. Richards, Class of 1964 died Dec. 19, 2021. Brother of Bernard ’58, David ’62 and William ’68 Richards.
1990s
Thomas Kovach, Class of 1966 died Oct. 18, 2021.
Richard Cavileer, Class of 2008 died Nov. 8, 2021. Brother of John Cavileer ’00 and Natalie (Cavileer ’03) McCrory.
Joseph Pudis, Class of 1967 died July 27, 2021.
Gregory Franks, Class of 1959 died Jan. 26, 2021.
David Sabett, Class of 1965 died Nov. 19, 2021.
2000s
Maureen (Sullivan) Hinson, Class of 1996 died July 10, 2021. Spouse of Gregory Hinson ’96.
Roy Allen died Sept. 27, 2021. Grandparent of Reid Allen ’18. Mary Asente died Sept. 15, 2021. Mother of Charles Asente ’68. Grandmother of Chrystan (Asente ’93) Richardson and Michael Asente ’97. Great-grandmother of Samuel ’22 and Jack ’23 Richardson. Joseph Bodnar died on Aug. 31, 2021. Former Hoban coach. Father of Heather (Bodnar ’92) Schober and Joseph Bodnar ’97. Brother-in-law of Dennis ’69, John ’71 and Mark ’73 (d) Ostroski. Gilbert "Gib" Bozzelli died Sept. 19, 2021. Grandparent of John ’17 and Katherine "Katie" Bozzelli ’19. Irene Buehrle died Oct. 2, 2021. Mother
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of Thomas ’69 (d), James ’73, Kenneth ’73, Robert ’79 and Ralph ’80 Buehrle. Grandmother of Brent Buehrle '01, Nicole (Buehrle ’02) Dannemiller, Kevin Buehrle '07, Samantha Buehrle '10, Elizabeth (Kalbus ’05) Snavely, Sarah Kalbus '07 and Jennifer Kalbus '10. Patricia Costigan died Oct. 4, 2021. Sister of James Costigan ’74. Vincent Del Medico died Sept. 24, 2021. Father of Vincent ’71, Michael ’73, Timothy ’74, Patrick ’84 Del Medico, Anne (Del Medico ’77) Gorey and Jacquelyn (Del Medico ’79) Paparella. Grandfather of Dana (Del Medico ’99) Harty, Lauren (Del Medico ’99) Treichel, Katie (Del Medico ’01) Robinson, Caitlin (Del Medico ’05) Zaluski, Nicholas Del Medico ’05, Michael Del Medico ’07, Tim Gorey ’08, Peter Del Medico ’11 and Christina Gorey ’15. Daniel DiDomenico died Aug. 29, 2021. Brother of David DiDomenico ’70. Gary Dunn died Oct. 9, 2021. Grandparent of Emily ’22 and Garrett ’25 Walters. Colleen Fail died July 3, 2021. Aunt of Simone Thiel ’23. Marsha Floyd died Aug. 17, 2021. Mother of Tyris Dickerson ’19.
Mike Firtha died Oct. 17, 2021. Father of Michael Firtha ’71, Joseph Firtha ’72 (d) and Diane (Firtha ’75) Esola. Sonil Haslam died Nov. 2, 2021. Former Hoban coach. Spouse of Kelly (Lilley ’95) Haslam. Christina Hoffmann died Nov. 11, 2021. Grandmother of Kayla ’20, Alana ’22 and Caleb ’25 Zurowski. Delores Howe died Oct. 26, 2021. Grandmother of Hoban employee Brian Howe. Grandmother-in-law of Danielle (Bender ’04) Howe. Karen Kemp died Dec. 11, 2021. Grandmother of Angela Thompson ’23. John Kempel died Sept. 15, 2021. Brother of Michael Kempel ’66 (d). William Kennedy died Nov. 11, 2021. Uncle of Tra'Miere Walker ’24. Michael Kovacs died Sept. 17, 2021. Father of David Kovacs ’01. James Messmore died Aug. 26, 2021. Father-in-law of former Hoban Board member Ted Stitzel. Grandfather of Sam ’12, Teddy ’14, Henry ’15, Elizabeth "Libby" ’16, Mary ’18 and Pete ’20 Stitzel. Judy Mickunas died Sept. 18, 2021. Sister of Terrence ’63, Timothy ’71 and Kevin ’74 Mickunas. Robert Myers died Aug. 21, 2021. Grandfather of Abigail Roman ’23. James Noonan died Oct. 6, 2021. Father of Cindy (Noonan ’87) Sondag. Grandfather of Derek Noonan ’00. Derrick Palmer died Sept. 29, 2021. Grandfather of Alexis Palmer ’25. Julia Pierson died Dec. 22, 2021. Spouse of Marshall Pierson ’63. Mother of Margaret (Pierson ’88) Pask. Thomas Reeves died Dec. 27, 2021. Brother-in-law of Hoban employee Cathy (Keller ’80) Reeves. Uncle of Nicholas ’16 and Joseph ’12 Reeves. Benjamin Salchak died Sept. 2, 2021. Son of Mark ’82 and Elizabeth (Duff ’82) Salchak. Nephew of Constance ’83 and Martin ’84 Duff. Dawn Skiffey died Aug. 20, 2021. Mother of Robert ’08, Mary ’11 and Michael ’19 Skiffey. Benjamin Spontarelli died Oct. 20, 2021. Father-in-law of Hoban employee Jennifer Spontarelli. Eleanor Stetz died Oct. 10, 2021.
Mother of John ’69 and Jeff ’70 Stetz. Mother-in-law of Dana (Garro ’78) Stetz. Grandmother of Stephen ’07 (d) and Katelyn ’05 Stetz. Christopher Tavolier died July 21, 2021. Uncle of Makenzie ’10, Hayley ’11 and Peter ’19 Bell and Blythe ’17, Tess ’19, Owen ’20 and Collin ’22 McDermott. Darcy Tavolier died Dec. 11, 2021. Aunt of Makenzie ’10, Hayley ’11 and Peter ’19 Bell and Blythe ’17, Tess ’19, Owen ’20 and Collin ’22 McDermott. Peter Tavolier died Dec. 12, 2021. Grandfather of Makenzie ’10, Hayley ’11 and Peter ’19 Bell and Blythe ’17, Tess ’19, Owen ’20 and Collin ’22 McDermott. Dwayne Tomlinson, Sr., died Dec. 27, 2021. Grandfather of Airyonah Tomlinson ’25. Jean Vondemkamp died July 12, 2021. Grandmother of James Scalf ’08. Marion Warner died Sept. 27, 2021. Mother of James ’63, Terrence ’66, David ’78 and Mark ’79 Warner. Mother-in-law of John Czeciuk ’65. Christine Yakubowski died Nov. 7, 2021. Mother of Hoban board member Mark Yakubowski. Grandmother of Amy ’10, Tom ’12 and Anna ’14 Yakubowksi. Gregory Zoldesy died Aug. 15, 2021. Mother of Anna ’13 and Max ’15 Zoldesy.
BROTHER PAUL KELLY, C.S.C. Sept. 22, 1935 – Jan. 28, 2022 Brother Paul Houston Kelly, C.S.C., age 86, died on January 28, 2022 at Columba Hall on the campus of the University of Notre Dame. He served as Hoban's president from 1991 to 1996, and he served in other ministries including teaching business courses at Hoban from 1962 to 1969. He was born in McCordsville, Indiana, the third of six children of Thomas J. Kelly and Lena (Duzan) Kelly. He received all 12 years of schooling in a single building, McCordsville High School, graduating in a class of seven in 1953. Kelly joined the Congregation of Holy Cross in 1958, taking final vows in 1962. For 60 years, Kelly was a man of humble, kind and devoted service in the Midwest Province of Brothers. Having completed an MBA at Notre Dame in 1968, in 1969, he began a career as business manager in several high schools in the province – often being assigned the task of putting things into order. He was a member of the provincial council for three different provincials. In 1975 and again in 1996, he participated in a renewal program at Sangre de Cristo Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and from 2009-2012, he was a member of their staff. He was also a member of the formation program at Pulte Hall, Holy Cross College – a discernment program for young men considering a vocation to the congregation. Kelly was noted for his knowledge of and delight in playing cards and other games, and for being an accomplished creator of delicious desserts. Memorial contributions, in honor of Kelly, to support the mission and ministries of the Brothers, may be sent to: Brothers of Holy Cross, Office of Development, P.O. Box 460, Notre Dame, IN 46556. Call 330.773.8620 to make a donation to Brother Paul Kelly's Hoban endowed scholarship. HOBAN MAGAZINE
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HO B A N .O R G /EXTRAVAGANZ A
Since 1986, Hoban parents, alumni, employees and friends have helped make Extravaganza the largest fundraising event of the year. Proceeds from the dinner and auction have supported facility improvements, student scholarships and technology upgrades. Learn more at HOBAN.ORG/EXTRAVAGANZA
Join us on Saturday, April 9 for Extravaganza 2022 – Live at the Disco!
THANK YOU
Thank you to all the alumni, families, sponsors and friends who have supported the Extravaganza 2022 events.
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A HISTORY OF THE RALPH L. AND FLORENCE A. BERNARD FOUNDATION To truly understand the basis for the Ralph L. and Florence Bernard Foundation, one must look back to the world in which young Ralph L. Bernard was raised. He was born August 5, 1915 and was the second youngest of five children born to William and Eugenia Bernard. Mrs. Bernard struggled with rheumatoid arthritis and various ailments and she passed away from complications of influenza in 1928. William then had to finish raising his five children by himself and looked to his extended family for assistance. His brother, Fr. Leo, was a Dominican priest and his sisters, Sister Austin and Sister Clarita were Dominican nuns. Together with their other brother, Adam, who married but had no children, they all helped in raising the young Ralph and his siblings. Obviously, Catholicism was very important to the Bernard family and all of the Bernard children were raised with a strong sense of family and religion. As William’s three boys aged and matured, all three went into the family business – the construction and pipeline business. After graduating from Barberton High School, Ralph decided to pursue a career as an engineer and attended the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., a school established by the Brothers of Holy Cross. School was not easy for Ralph. He struggled to get B’s and his grades were interspersed with the occasional C. He was determined and worked very hard. It was at Notre Dame where he truly appreciated how easy it was for the students who were academically-gifted. They were the students who received the scholarships. They were the students chosen for the best internships. In short, they were the shining stars. No one paid much attention to those middle-of-the-road students who had to work hard for every B grade. Ralph graduated from Notre Dame with an engineering degree and continued working in the family business along side his brothers and father. After his father retired, he and his brothers took over the various businesses and thrived. Ralph took that strong work ethic and steadfastness that propelled him through Notre Dame to build one of Akron’s best-known construction companies. During this time period he met and married the love of his life, Florence, a graduate of St. Vincent High School and they had two children, Ralph and Regina.
When it was time for Ralph Jr. to attend high school, Archbishop Hoban High School had opened several years prior and Ralph graduated from Hoban in 1962. At that time, Hoban was all male and so when it was time for Regina to attend high school, she attended and graduated from St. Vincent High School in 1965. From 1969-1972, Regina also taught at St. Vincent and then at the combined St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. Florence Bernard passed away in 1991 after a bout with breast cancer and thereafter, Ralph Sr. decided to create the Ralph L. and Florence A. Bernard Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to foster and advance Catholic education and originally this Foundation was created to benefit the three non-Jesuit Catholic high schools in Summit County, Our Lady of the Elms, Archbishop Hoban High School and St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. Prior to the death of Ralph Sr. in 2009, he expanded the purpose of the Foundation to assist other Catholic grade schools, primarily in Summit County. The scholarships established through the Foundation are to meet the following criteria: 1. No funds are to be used in the Foundation for “brick & mortar.” 2. The scholarships are meant to help the families who cannot afford to send their children to a Catholic high school. 3. The scholarship is for “middle of the road” children – who, much like Ralph himself, work hard but perhaps are only B students. Ralph experienced first hand what it is like to work hard and struggle to get B’s and understood that those students often get overlooked. This scholarship is not to be used as a means for the school to recruit top students. Countless Hoban students have benefited from the foresight and generosity of Ralph and Florence. Their commitment to Catholic education is inspiring and has allowed so many Hoban Knights to receive a Catholic education in the Holy Cross tradition just as Ralph Sr. and Ralph Jr.
Archbishop Hoban High School
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Central Office 330.773.6658 Advancement Office 330.773.8620 info@hoban.org hoban.org
EXPERIENCE LIFE AS A HOBAN KNIGHT All seventh-grade students are welcome to attend Hoban’s 7th Grade Visit. We look forward to seeing you at the Castle!
TUESDAY, MARCH 29 9 A.M. – 1 P.M. Spark your curiosity with Hoban’s college-prep curriculum. Connect with teachers and students. Charge your Hoban spirit at a Knights pep assembly. Imagine yourself as a student as you explore campus. REGISTER TODAY | hoban.org/visit
ASK US ABOUT THE LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP | p. 330.849.2149 | e. admissions@hoban.org | hoban.org/visit
