Matters
MARIAN A N EWSLETTER
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M ARIAN C ATHOLIC A LUMNI , PARENTS
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F RIENDS . . . B ECAUSE M ARIAN C ATHOLIC R EALLY D OES M ATTER 2 0 0 4
FORENSICS CONTINUES BRILLIANT STRIDES swept all three novice tournaments with gainful margins and also mastered top scores in the three Varsity qualifiers. The schools in this League are primarily intensely competitive private schools—although a few non-parochial schools do enter.
Sophomores Nicole and Samantha Padula are 2 of the 16 students who qualify for competition in Boston this Spring.
Marian Catholic Forensic students have a foot in two worlds, competing in two separate leagues. Despite the pressure, the advantages are tremendous. The Chicago Catholic League leads to national competition; the Public School Invitational and IHSA state have different events and rules that test student ability in the State of Illinois. MCHS ascended in both leagues. Undefeated in the Catholic League, MCHS
In the Catholic League, sixteen students qualify for competition in Boston this spring. That number is amazing on a national level—and in some categories, all of the entries are unstoppable. Champions include Sean Becker, Jean Phillip Brignol, Andy DeKruiff, Amy Dettmann, Larry Hickey, Joe Kasper, Alex Kuehr, Jim McGuire, Jon Mercado, Catherine Mitros, Matt Nix, Nicole Padula, Samantha Padula, Jaime Smith, Elaine Wilson and Nick Wilson. According to Forensics moderator Tom Sweeney, “The students learned how to recognize their own speaking habits, discovered their talent potentials and actualized them. Each of these students
learned about standards, fairness, and harnessed the most difficult of resources— motivation to continue excellence when you succeed,” Sweeney noted. “In this League, there are six events and we can send three students in each category. Basically, there are oral interpretation events, limited prep events, and public address. Students learn how to master performance skills, find and compile evidence for argumentation, and translate the words of authors into performances that move audiences to think profoundly about a subject or to share with the reader compassionately to understand great selections from literary genre. It’s all very competitive and fun. More importantly, it absolutely encourages students to examine their role as future, responsible leaders.” There is no doubt that prestigious universities seek out students who are experienced in the dual worlds of academics and forensic competition. Continued on page 9
PHONATHON RINGS SUCCESSFUL For seven evenings, over 200 students, current parents and alumni parents manned a temporary bank of phones in the library. Their goal was a chance to speak with alumni, current parents and alumni parents to fill them in on what’s going on at Marian Catholic and to extend an invitation to participate in this year’s Annual Fund. If you spoke with one of these many volunteers you probably sensed the fun they were having during this important part of Marian’s fund-raising to reach their goal of $72,500. This year’s Phonathon was spearheaded by veteran co-chairs Sue and Joe Beaudry ’67, ’67, Sue Dawson and Nancy Hathhorn, under the watchful eye of alumni parent and Phonathon coordinator, Peg Massucci. With the ever present encouragement of Sister Mary Paul, down Parent callers, Herby Weathers, Jr. and Chris Hutter making phone calls at this year’s Phonathon. in the trenches were the callers. The first three nights were in the hands of the students as they called across the country to alumni. Volunteer parents placed calls on the final four nights, speaking with many current parents and alumni parents. A big thank you goes to all who spoke with us; and an even bigger thank you to those who made a pledge—pledges surpassed $61,000. We’re confident that pledge payments and future decisions to invest will surpass our goal.
Bob McAvoy ’98 helps hand out raffle tickets and encourage student callers during this year’s Phonathon.
Some people ask why a need for the Annual Fund and its accompanying Phonathon—this is the third and final year we are targeting funds raised to help pay for Dominican Way which includes eight new modern classrooms, teacher resource center, wireless technology and resource computers. In recent past years, the Annual Fund has provided the funding for wireless technology, development of athletic fields, software and equipment for science labs and lecture rooms, and much, much more. As pledge reminders go out in the mail, thank you in advance for your support. If you did not hear from us during the Phonathon, please be assured we tried. It’s not too late for “your decision” to invest—your participation is vital to the students of Marian Catholic High School.
MARIAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION 2003-2004 Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ‘67 President/Principal William Hogan Chief Financial Officer Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement John F. Heneghan Assistant Principal, Operations John F. Kozojed Assistant Principal, Student Activities Dr. Shirley Morris Assistant Principal, Academics Sr. Katherine O’Connor, O.P. Dominican Sisters’ Liaison
W R E S T L I N G , WO M E N ’ S B A S K E T B A L L A D D TO S PA RTA N S TAT E P R I D E Collin McKillip, Brad Wisowaty and Steve Scrementi didn’t realize there was so much writing required when they got involved with wrestling. However, the three Marian seniors spent plenty of time re-writing the school’s record books during their final campaign. A two-time state qualifier, Scrementi concluded his career with a stellar 106-49 mark. Wisowaty captured fourth place at 189 pounds in the IHSA State Tournament, while moving into third place all-time in victories with a career mark of 134-37.
ADVISORY BOARD 2003-2004 Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ’67 President/Principal William Hogan Chief Financial Officer Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement Sr. Katherine O’Connor, O.P. Dominican Sisters’ Liaison Peg Massucci Recording Secretary Joann Lindholm Chairperson Robert Jones, III ’79 Vice Chairperson Ramzi Bahu Audrey Hudson-Neely Genevieve Boesen Michael Caruso Christopher Cummings ’76 Jeanne DeRaimo Patrick Dolan ’72 Charles Gallagher ’77 Sr. M. Janice Greenwood, O.P. Joseph Hamann ’79
Peter Kroner Kevin Larson Michael Murphy ’70 William Noone Philip Pascarella Sharon Pope Nicholas Zagotta
OFFICE FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Sr. M. Paul McCaughey, O.P. ’67 President/Principal Peter Ruhl Vice President for Institutional Advancement Carol Burke Swanson ’81 Director of Development Michael McQuade ’76 Cindy Dupczak Database Coordinators Kevin Kelly ’80 Public Relations Coordinator Janet Noth Office Manager Peg Massucci Assistant to the President Sr. Dorothy Marie Solak, O.P. Diana McDonnell Shannon Reidy ’90 Recruitment Erin DeBruin ’99 Alumni Relations Coordinator Mary Moffatt Consultant
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Christopher Cummings ’76 Chairperson Colleen (O’Neill) Ranieri ’83 Vice Chairperson
Senior, Collin McKillip takes down a Viking opponent in the home contest on January 24 versus Homewood-Flossmoor. McKillip qualified for the state meet for the fourth straight season!
McKillip, just the second Marian wrestler to qualify for state four times, surpassed former state champion Mickey Griffin ’93 as the winningest wrestler in history with a 156-21 record.
“Congratulations to Steve, Brad and Collin on the conclusion of outstanding four-year varsity careers,” said proud dad and wrestling coach Don McKillip. “Collin closed out his four year with distinction. He went out re-writing the record book for Marian Catholic. Good luck to all three on their future endeavors.” Records weren’t the only good news for the Marian women’s basketball team. The Spartans advanced to their third consecutive Class AA Elite Eight with some added excitement. Senior Lauren Lacey scored 18 points in a sectional semifinal win over Joliet Catholic to become the school’s all-time (men and women) leading scorer. Lacey (1,815 points) passed former leader Kathryn Gleason ’92, 2002 Hall of Fame Athlete of the Year and assistant softball coach at Purdue University. Marian brought home the sixth state trophy in the school’s history, as a 74-67 quarterfinal win over Grayslake advanced it to the Final Four and an eventual fourth place finish. With 60 points in three games at Illinois State University’s Redbird Arena, Lacey earned all-tournament team honors. The Spartans also improved their three-year record to 87-14 behind outstanding leadership from seniors Lacey, Megan Cleary, Ashley Stanicek and Lauren Woods. Marian won its third straight supersectional with a 67-52 victory over Stagg at St. Xavier University on March 1. The win improved the Spartans to 17-2 during the last three postseasons and ran their winning streak against SICA competition to 33 games. Marian added a pair of in-season titles this year, winning the Maine West Tipoff Classic and capturing its third straight Hillcrest Holiday Classic championship.
Spartan 6’ 3” senior center, Lauren Lacey manages an inside shot over two defenders from Stagg at the Super Sectional Championship at St. Xavier University on March 1, 2004. The Spartans won 67-52 to qualify for the Elite Eight and the state quarterfinals for the third year in a row.
The men’s basketball squad had its ups and downs this season under first-year coach Mike Taylor, but did start the season in fine fashion by winning the Marian Thanksgiving Tournament. Junior Ryan Owens earned Most Valuable Player honors. At Christmas, senior Mike Jedlicka scored a tournament-high 37 points in a Rich South Big Dipper victory over Rich East. Next year, Marian will combine with crosstown rival Bloom Township to co-host a new eight-team Thanksgiving Tournament. 2
CLASS OF 2008 ARRIVES AS SCHOLARS Marian Catholic High School continues to be in the enviable, yet difficult position of turning away young people who take the entrance exam. While test scores are a factor, some students were accepted conditionally on the basis of Catholic school attendance and legacies. The test this year proved to be extremely competitive, with 244 of the testers scoring above the 90 percentile nationally. Of those, 60 scored in the 99 percentile nationally. Fourteen of these top scorers (those with the local scores also in the 99%) will be awarded one-time $1,000 academic scholarships as Marian Scholars, and receive recognition from their school. The remainder of the high achievers will also receive recognition with their junior high school and a smaller cash award. “While test scores are not the only indicator of academic performance, students entering Marian will be challenged to make a smooth transition into Marian’s school culture,” Vice-Principal of Academics Dr. Shirley Morris said. “Those accepted on a conditional basis may enroll in the ‘Marian Way’ summer course. Marian has in place a study-skills program to assist all incoming freshmen, if needed. Administrators and teachers observed on the day of testing that students seemed enthusiastic and eager to attend Marian.” These high achieving eighth grade students include:
JESSICA ALSTON
SEAN DALEY
RAMZY KHABBAZ
RYAN SIMUTIS
Cornerstone Christian
G. Kerkstra Middle
Infant Jesus of Prague
Infant Jesus of Prague
ANN MARIE ANDERSON
SIERRA DONALDSON
JON LADNER
SAMANTHA SLOAN
Wolcott Elementary
Infant Jesus of Prague
Parker Junior High
St. Ann
RAINA BAHU
EAMON DRISCOLL
LANA LARCHER
T I M O T H Y S TA N I S
Infant Jesus of Prague
Infant Jesus of Prague
St. Paul Lutheran
Our Lady of Knock
C A R LY B L U E
M AT T H E W E I S E N B A R T
KELLEN LEE
K R I S TA S U F I E
Kahler Middle
Infant Jesus of Prague
Marya Yates
Memorial Junior High
B RYA N B ROW N
RAJELIN ESCONDO
NICK LEROSE
A M E L I A H T AW L K S
St. Ann
Wolcott Elementary
Wolcott Elementary
THOMAS BUCKI
ZACHARIAH FERANEC
ELIZABETH MASON
JUSTIN THIRSTRUP
St. Ann
St. Joseph
Heritage Middle
St. George
K A R I - LY N N B U R R O U G H S
MELINDA FRIED
J U S T I N M I C H A LOW S K I
ALEX TOLISH
McKinley Junior High
Parker Junior High
Lincoln
Infant Jesus of Prague
K E L LY B U T L E R
BRYANNA GUY
C A S E Y N O VA K
E L I Z A B E T H TO RTO R E L LO
St. Lawrence O'Toole
St. Lawrence O'Toole
St. Andrew
St. George
E M I LY C A N N ATA
MELANIE HALL
P AT R I C K O ’ M A L L E Y
MICHAEL TUTTLE
St. Agnes
Deer Creek Christian
St. George
St. Kieran
CELINA CANTU
JOSEPH HALPIN
D O M I N I C O RT I G A R A
J O H N A N T H O N Y VA L L E
Greenbriar
Arbor Park Middle
St. George
St. Ann
MARISSA CARUSO
M AT T H E W H E N N E S S Y
Z A C H A R Y PA R S O N S
M E G H A N VA N V U R E N
St. Liborius
St. Lawrence O'Toole
O.W. Huth Middle
Kahler Middle
JOHN CIFELLI
THOMAS HIRSCH
J O S E P H PA S Q U I N E L L I
JACK VON ALBADE
Infant Jesus of Prague
Central Junior High
St. Joseph
Mokena Junior High
C H R I S TA C L A R K E
MEGAN HOHENSTEIN
MICHAEL REARDON
A L I C I A W A LT E R
McKinley Junior High
Trinity Lutheran
Clifford Pierce Middle
St. Damian
ALEXANDRA CORBETT
AMANDA JOHNSON
THOMAS SCHOENHOFEN
JOANNA WOJNAR
St. Liborius
St. Damian
Summitt Hill Junior High
Kahler Middle
AMANDA COUGHLIN
M A R T H A J UA R E Z
A S H L E E S C H U LT Z
KRISTEN YEAGER
St. Lawrence O ' Toole
St. Stanislaus
St. Ann
St. Ann
Southwood Junior High
FAT H E R / DA U G H T E R M OT H E R / S O N DA N C E Senior, Meghan Smosna and father Edward Smosna dance to the music of a 50’s/60’s band that performed at the Father/Daughter Mother/Son Dance. Sophomore, Anthony Entsminger and mother, Mary Kay Entsminger, dance the night away at the Mother/Son Father/Daughter Dance on February 28 in the East Gym.
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H A R R I S O N , PA B S T S U P E R B OW L S TA N D O U T S When the New England Patriots defeated the Carolina Panthers, 32-29, on Feb. 1 to win Super Bowl XXXVIII, it was a great day for those in the Boston area.
backfield. He also ran track and led the Marian men’s basketball team to its only IHSA regional title. However, he’ll be the first to tell you the NFL is a different world.
On the field and behind the scenes, it wasn’t a bad day for Marian Catholic either.
Known for years as one of the NFL’s best safeties and hardest hitters, Harrison led the Patriots in tackles against the Panthers with eight solos and one assist, while also recording a sack.
“I would tell high school football players that no matter how hard you hit in your games now, just multiply that ten times over and you’re in the NFL,” Harrison said. “There’s so much preparation for each game—lifting in the weight room, watching films over and over and attending all the meetings. You have to play at such a high level on game day, or they’ll just run you over. The intensity and pressure are so high. You have to do so much to prepare yourself for each game.”
Marian is hopeful that Harrison finds his way back to Marian-Chicago ties in the near future. Marian would like to see Harrison
Although new father Harrison is on top of the world with a Super Bowl championship, he tries to keep things in perspective.
Rodney Harrison ’91 had been to a Super Bowl before with the San Diego Chargers, but on this occasion he played a major role in making sure the Patriots won the Super Bowl.
on the same day on the same show. It’s something that never gets old. “I hope I never become jaded,” says Pabst, “where meeting some of the greatest athletes in the world becomes old-hat. I doubt that will ever happen. The show is a challenge, mostly because every media outlet is in town competing for the top names and biggest stories. However, that’s what gets me fired up, trying to have a better show than the competition.” The passion that Pabst has for sports and his profession has existed for a long time, including dating back to his days at Marian Catholic. “Senior year at Marian I took an elective journalism class and started working on the school paper,” said Pabst, who produces the show aired daily in the Chicago area on ESPN Radio AM-1000 from 1 to 3 p.m. “That’s when I knew what I wanted to do. I still have a few pieces that I wrote for the paper, they are funny to look at from time-to-time. “The journalism class and school paper were the start of where I am now. I was never in danger of getting straight A’s at Marian, but the thing I liked most about the school was the fact that we had elective classes such as journalism. I’m sure many schools at the time offered no such course. If I would have gone to such a school, instead of Marian, I may not have found what I wanted to do at a young age.”
Paul Pabst ’87 stands with comedian Chris Rock and ESPN anchor Dan Patrick at Super Bowl XXXVIII. Pabst currently works for ESPN as a producer.
join former NFL players Mike Prior ’81 and John Holecek ’90 as the lone Spartans to have their jerseys retired. Harrison had his share of ups and downs the week of helping the Patriots win the Super Bowl. He sustained a broken arm in the second half of the contest, but great news came later in the week when Rodney and his wife Erica had their first child. The three-time Pro Bowler and four-time San Diego Chargers Defensive Player of the Year has done his share of deeds behind the scenes as well. Harrison helps run summer camps for youngsters in his native Markham and is still heavily involved with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of San Diego. At Marian, Harrison gained a reputation as being a huge hitter in the defensive
“It’s so important to be able to share these moments with family and friends,” Harrison said. “Being with them helps me calm my nerves and gets me away from all the hype of the Super Bowl. These people have been with me during the tough times and the good times. I love all of them. It’s awesome to share this experience with them.” Meanwhile, Paul Pabst ’87 also played a large role in much of the Super Bowl coverage that week. Pabst serves as producer for ESPN’s Dan Patrick Show, which also features former Major League Baseball pitcher Rob Dibble. “The Super Bowl is the ultimate; it’s become a national holiday,” Pabst said. “I’m still a sports fan and down in Houston this year, I was lucky enough to meet Jerry Rice, Joe Montana, Dan Marino, among others... 4
Much of Pabst’s work has brought him back to Chicago ties, including one of his funniest memories. “We were at spring training and Sammy Sosa agreed to a TV interview with Dan Patrick,” he said. “We had to hustle to make it to Sammy’s Scottsdale home, right after finishing our radio show. Dan had no time to change and when we pulled up to Sosa’s home, Dan went into Sosa’s garage, dropped his casual clothes and hurriedly put on a suit and tie. “I’m standing guard at Sammy’s door so neither he nor his agent could come out to see the man about to interview him, in a barely-dressed state. I just paused for a second and thought, ‘If you told me a decade ago that I would be in Sammy Sosa’s garage, trying to keep him from seeing a half-naked Dan Patrick,’ I would have thought you were insane.” Marian Catholic would also like to take Paul up on his offer to be back in the halls some day to share more stories and mentor students.
S U M M E R A C T I V I T I E S O F F E R G R A N D VA R I E T Y Expansion at Marian Catholic. The last decade has seen some fantastic physical expansion at 700 Ashland, including the Fine Arts wing, the West Gym complex and beautiful Dominican Way. However, expansion of programs ranks just as significant as the physical plant. Summer camps and programs have been turning out record numbers in recent years. Camps for sports alone number an annual registration of nearly 700... and the plans are to offer more variety and creative angles. “Summer camps at Marian provide the opportunity for our coaching staffs and current athletes to teach and motivate the younger athletes in the community,” women’s basketball coach Shannon Reidy ’90 explained. “The relationships that are built bring more excitement to upcoming seasons at Marian and get the youth excited about the possibilities of playing for Marian Catholic in the future. “The summer camps also help the coaches set higher expectations within their athletic programs by getting kids athletically and mentally prepared for competing at the high school level one day,” Reidy said.
KEVIN LARSON
Virtually every Marian interscholastic sport offers a summer camp, and Theater was added to the mix in the the summer of 2003. Expectations are to expand into several other areas for camps and seminars in the near future.
OCCUPATION: Currently transitioning from corporate world to business ownership.
“Previously, our program included mostly athletics for elementary school students and incoming freshmen,” Recruitment Assistant Diana McDonnell said.
START OF TERM: 2001
“However, last year we had a very successful Summer Theater Camp Program. On the basis of this experience, we decided to expand our program by offering junior high students a variety of academics and fine arts along with the athletic camps. These would be more interactive for the purpose of academic enrichment as well as giving students the opportunity to realize that learning can also be fun.”
FAMILY: Wife, Diane; daughters Jill (’98) and Dawn (’01).
The following camps are possibilities this summer: Band, Field Biology, Creative Writing, Technology (which would include Power Point and designing a web page), Equestrian Experiences, Art, Speech, Math and, once again, Theater. “These camps will give junior high students a taste of the excellence and the many opportunities Marian Catholic has to offer,” McDonnell explained. In terms of technology, the potential is unlimited. Because of its computer labs, wireless environment, advanced learning through technology and web site, Marian Catholic is well ahead of most high schools in Illinois in bringing the latest technology to the classroom. Many of these advantages could also be brought to the community while offering more individuals an opportunity to view and learn at Marian. From one-day seminars to weekly summer classes, diverse learning experiences at Marian could be offered to all ages. Please be sure to visit our website to view all summer schedules.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: St. Kieran School Board (President), St. Kieran Facilities Planning Committee (Chairperson). HOBBIES: Golf, Reading. VISION FOR MCHS FUTURE: “I see Marian Catholic continuing to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for kids growing up with big dreams in the South Suburbs. Marian will continue to be a place where they can build their selfesteem and confidence, and come to know that they are capable to achieve whatever it is they take aim at. Marian will continue to help them appreciate that God is at their side on life’s journey.”
2 0 0 4 H A L L O F FA M E AWA R D E E S This year’s honorees at the Hall of Fame Awards Dinner at Olympia Fields Country Club on February 26. From Left to Right John Lustig ’84 Fine Arts Distinguished Achievement, Mary Margaret Flanagan Spirit of Marian Award, Judge Derek Mosley ’88 Alumnus of the Year, Lyndon “Stretch” Waller Lifetime Achievement, and Richard Klupchak ’70 Athlete of the Year.
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T E A C H E R RO C K A I T I S E X P E R I E N C E S ‘ G O L D E N ’ M O M E N T science degree in education from Northwestern University in 1998. He received his master’s degree in education from California State in Sacramento. Now, Rockaitis is plugging away at another master’s degree in administration at Governors State University. Rockaitis said it is wonderful to be nominated as a Golden Apple finalist. “It’s nice to be recognized,” Rockaitis said. “There are lots of great teachers here who care about students and give the extra effort. It’s nice for people to see how important it is for me to teach,” he said. The best part of the job, according to Rockaitis, is getting to know a student as a “full person.”
Sitting in classroom, Ryan Rockaitis switches roles with the students and lets senior, John Bonato ’04 lead the class in discussion. Rockaitis was nominated for a 2004 Golden Apple Award. ¡Felicidades, Señor Rockaitis!
An upbeat enthusiasm from Room 202 at Marian Catholic High School tumbles out the door. Ryan Rockaitis’ classroom is filled with bright colored posters, signs of encouragement and upbeat Latin music. As students enter the Spanish class, their enthusiasm and light chatter are evidence of the fun educational experience to come. Rockaitis, in his sixth year of teaching [at Marian Catholic] is a Golden Apple finalist. The Golden Apple Foundation recently announced the names of 32 Chicago-area finalists for the 2004 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Teaching in grades 9 through 12. A total of 681 teachers from Cook, Lake and DuPage counties were nominated for the award, which was first presented in 1986. “Rockaitis is a dynamic teacher full of energy and great ideas to share with students,” according to top administrator Sister Mary Paul. Rockaitis appreciates the sentiment, acknowledging that he is a teacher who tries to get all his students involved through creative teaching methods. He was told early on that learning occurs when the mind is in a state of joy. A philosophy that Rockaitis has taken to heart. Rockaitis said teaching also has been compared to acting. “Almost anyone can act, reading word for word from a script, but who will be interested? It’s filling the script with energy and effort that makes an actor’s work worth watching.” “I put energy and life into my teaching, so they will watch my show,” said Rockaitis,
who turns 28 next month and lives in Worth. Rockaitis calls Marian his first official teaching job, but he has taught summer school at Loyola Academy, classes in Minnesota and Pennsylvania and some night courses. Rockaitis has known since second grade that he wanted to be a teacher. It was his freshman year in high school that he knew he wanted to teach Spanish. Rockaitis still e-mails his second grade teacher, Sister Anne Frances, daily. In high school, Rockaitis planned to take Latin, but opted for Spanish when the Latin class was full. He loved the language. “Buenos dias,” Rockaitis tells his students who respond enthusiastically to a 10:10 a.m. class on Tuesday. After they get settled, the students offer names of friends and families — in Spanish and English — for whom they would like to pray. Then the group joins in the Spanish version of the Hail Mary. After the prayer, Rockaitis tossed a small beach ball of the earth out to the students. A handful of students have an opportunity to share their “braggage or baggage,” comments about positives and negatives that are affecting them at the moment. One student complains about a lot of homework in her English class, while another student shares her exciting weekend plans. After some thoughtful comments, Rockaitis says its time for a vocabulary quiz. Without groans, the students get out their pens to get the job done. The rest of the class is then spent discussing “los verbos con cambio radical,” or stem-changing verbs. Rockaitis, who graduated from Marist High School in 1994, received his bachelor of 6
As “dynamite” and “nice” as Rockaitis is, he is also quite demanding of his students, Sister Mary Paul said. The students know he’s fair and respect him for it, she said. Sr. Paul said Rockaitis’ efforts extend well past the classroom. He participates in school retreats, has chaperoned dances, is a member of the Faculty Council, volunteers with a Rotary Club and goes on class trips. According to Sr. Paul, “The three things that make a great teacher are: first, a solid grounding in content; second, a love of students and third, a craft or pedagogy to review, present, integrate and invite students to respond to the information.” Under Department Chair, Nancy Holmes, the Foreign Language Department at Marian has a “nice alignment of curriculum, Sr. Paul said. “They are great at working together.” To narrow the finalists to 10 winners, an observation team came to Marian to observe Rockaitis in the classroom setting, interview his peers, his students and even some of their parents. Each of the 10 Golden Apple Award winners will receive a tuition-free fall-term sabbatical at Northwestern University; $2,500; a personal computer from Apple; and induction into the Golden Apple Academy, which now numbers 180 teachers. Rockaitis said he really appreciates that the Golden Apple awards’ focus is on encouraging more people to join the education field. Teachers have encouraged him along the way, including another Spanish teacher at Marian. Irene VaraPohlman was a mentor during his senior year at Marist. “Teaching is rewarding,” Rockaitis said. “I’d really like to share that with others and encourage them to try teaching.” The Star Thursday, February 5, 2004 By LYNDA WELCH HEMMERLING ’85
S E RV I C E AWA R D S A L L Traveling east on Joe Orr, we see some of the last farm land left in the area. If we turn left on Stony Island, we soon come to sign saying “PAWS ‘Critter Crossings’ est. 1958,” the same year the first freshman class entered Marian Catholic. Turning into the drive, you see why this farm is so special. Dwight and Darlene, the owners, love animals. From the time he was 18 years old, Dwight has had a knack for nursing injured and ill animals back to health. When Dwight retired, he gave his land to this effort. Critter Crossings is so popular with Service Club students that we had to extend our service there from once a week to twice a week. But Critter Crossings is just one of the many activities in which Service Club students participate. Service Club students also prepare meals and feed the homeless at St. Agnes Parish once a month, walk a Miracle Mile that raises money for St. Jude Research Hospital, have fun with Bowl Down Cancer, sell shamrocks for Mercy Home for Children, visit senior citizen homes such as Tolentine and The Park in Olympia Fields and Holland House in South Holland. They also bake pumpkin bread at Thanksgiving and make candy at Valentine’s Day for senior citizens, support Make a Wish Foundation, assist Knights of Columbus and Misericordia on their tag days, help decorate homes for senior citizens for Christmas and much more.
Students, Stephanie Kuersten (Homewood), Max Kaim (Chicago East side), Katie Lynch Chicago (Beverly), Scott Eckel (Mokena), Tom Connelly (Mokena), Chad Lesczynski(Crete), Anthony Entsminger (Orland Park), Maricay Mauro (Crete), gather to get picture taken with Lucy the baby goat. The students regularly go to Critter Crossings to help take care of animals just like Lucy.
The variety and flexibility (students participate when they can fit it into their schedule) keep students coming back for more. That’s why more than 85 percent of Marian students voluntarily participate in some type of service activity. There’s great benefit to the people and animals they serve, yet there’s plenty of reward for the students as well. The following article was written by two freshmen who fell in love with Lucy, a baby goat that was at birth abandoned by its mother. Meet Lucy, an adorable, extremely lovable young goat. Along with many other animals, Lucy makes her home at Critter Crossings. There are deer, geese, foxes, doves, horses and many other animals that take shelter here, and not all are native to America. Critter Crossings takes care of rejected and orphaned babies, allowing them to grow to adulthood to be released back into the wild. Every animal here gets its own special attention and love. Of course, what Critters Crossings does is only possible with the support of people like us. If Critter Crossings accepted money from the government, then if the animals do not get a new home, they get put down after a period of time. We do not want to kill the animals, do we? These animals are so loving, so lovable, how can anyone turn their backs on them? We know we cannot. We have not missed a single trip to Critter Crossings since our first time there. We have found it impossible to resist the animals. Help Lucy and the other animals, and you will feel good about it. We know we do. FRESHMEN, M ARISSA B ACKLIN
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S TEPHANIE B ACKLIN MCHS Service Club Members
B L A C H OW I C Z T E A C H I N G H O N O R E E
C A M I L L E L.Z. B L A C H OW I C Z , P H . D. National College of Education National Louis University Evanston, Illinois
Camille (Zarantonello) Blachowicz, a 1962 graduate of Marian Catholic High school, was named Outstanding Teacher Educator in Reading by the International Reading Association. Dr. Blachowicz is Professor of Education at National College of Education of National Louis University where she is director of the Reading Center and Reading Program. In her long career as an educator, Dr. Blachowicz has been a classroom teacher, team leader and reading specialist as well as university educator and staff developer.
An Instructional Approach and also of Teaching Vocabulary in All Classrooms and Celebrate Reading along with numerous book chapters and the recent Reading Comprehension: Strategies for Independent Learners. She is co-author of the chapter on vocabulary research for the third Handbook of Reading Research (2001). As a staff developer, she is a frequent speaker at national, local and international conferences and at meetings of the International Reading Association where she is a member of the Publication Committee.
Her research has been supported by grants from the Spencer Foundation, the Fulbright Council, The Chicago Community Trust and the International Reading Association. Dr. Blachowicz’s many articles have been published in journals ranging from Reading Teacher to Reading Research Quarterly and she is also the co-author of Reading Diagnosis:
Currently, along with her teaching and writing, Dr. Blachowicz is co-directing the project to develop K-1 literacy assessment for the State of Illinois, The Illinois Snapshot of Early Literacy. She also directs two projects in urban and suburban schools, “Literacy Partners,” and the “Everybody Reads” Fluency Project.
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M A R I A N “ E X P E RT S ” P L A N E X C E L L E N C E W E L L I N TO T H E F U T U R E This is what we are about: We plant the seeds that will one day grow, We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.... We are prophets of a future not our own. Archbishop Oscar Romero Dynamic institutions plan. The solid foundation which has left Marian Catholic in a position of strength when many schools are struggling was laid through the vision and work of those who brought their gifts to Marian Catholic. The first of these plans for the 21st Century, “The Courage to Lead,” unfolded in February. Seniors, Rachel Kowalczyk and Sammy Scrementi were steppin’ out in style at the Mothers Club Fashion Show on March 20 at Georgio’s Banquets.
With an Open Forum inviting all current Marian Catholic parents, students, and teachers followed by intense focus group work by key leaders, the newest Long-Range Plan will plot priorities for the next five years.
Sr. Dorothy Marie, Sharon and Jeff Stillman brainstorm ideas for the Recruitment Focus Group at the second Long Range Planning meeting held on March 8.
The conversation centered on questions in a variety of areas of school life. A sample of the topics and questions follow; the final focus group recommendations will be made a part of the 2003-2004 Annual Report.
S AV E - T H E - DAT E
GUYS & DOLLS Spring Musical Friday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 1 at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 2 at 2:00 p.m.
1 A L U M N I : How can MCHS alumni bonds be strengthened? How can more alums be re-engaged and/or invested in MCHS? 2 F I N E A R T S A. Overview: How can excellence in all the Arts be sustained? What resources and structures will be needed to assure access to the Arts for each student? B. Architecture and CAD: With CAD currently running cooperatively with Prairie state, should MCHS offer its own comprehensive program in a science-based college prep curriculum? C. Forensics: With a rapidly growing and successful forensics program, the broad-casting segment requires more physical resources than current resources can meet. How can this be accomplished in a way that ties it into other school priorities? 3 FAITH AND LIFE: MCHS exists so that faith can be known and lived by young people. How can we help reconnect students in the faith life of their local parishes? How can we engage more of our students in existing service opportunities in their own neighborhoods and on a more national or international level? How can we be certain we are teaching sound doctrine? How can peer ministry serve to reconnect students to the faith while here at Marian Catholic? 4 A T H L E T I C S : Existing sports have a place within the total school program to assure a quality experience for students. Which programs would best serve the needs of our students? How can MCHS attract and retain the highest caliber of coaches? What equipment and facilities would have the most impact on the most student athletes? 5 P U B L I C R E L A T I O N S A N D M A R K E T I N G : What are the best methods for getting the word out—and what “word” should be highlighted (e.g., validated “good news,” including excellent writing skills and scores)?
Bob Gromala ’97 reading the First Reading at the Young Alumni Memorial Mass, which took place on January 10, 2004 in the Marian Catholic student chapel. This Mass was held to commemorate the lives of those young alums who have died in the past year. Those especially remembered were Kevin Beukema ’97, Ryan Brothers ’98, Michele Salin ’01, Dean Perozzi ’94, Lisa Dangoia ’94, and Philip Schmitz ’99.
6 S T U D E N T L E A D E R S H I P P R O G R A M : Design a school-wide program that calls every student to leadership. What are the various types of leadership? What types of training should be offered so that each student develops his/her call to lead? What impact will peer leadership have on academics and faith? 7 F A C U L T Y A N D S T A F F P R O F E S S I O N A L D E V E L O P M E N T : Ongoing professional development that impacts the quality of instruction and provide for personal and systemic growth. How can we be sure professional opportunities both enrich the teacher and impact the quality of classroom teaching including new technology? 8 FINANCIAL AID: We know that families of Catholic students who are academically qualified have said they are not attending Marian Catholic purely because of finances— what would it take to reach those most in need? Could aid have a good faith “pay-back” provision, especially given the current reliance on the Dominican Sisters and limited endowments for tuition aid? 8
9 C O L L E G E C O U N S E L I N G : What current college counseling initiatives and models should be strengthened or adjusted to help all of our students find an appropriate “fit”? How do we have our students think more creatively and “stretch” their college choices? How can college counseling work more effectively with parents? 10 F A C I L I T I E S : Chart a cycle of preventative maintenance for the next 10 to 15 years. How can we best project for future capital needs? 11 C A F E T E R I A / K I T C H E N / F O O D S E R V I C E : Examine the options with regard to the (currently dated) kitchen and cafeteria. Should the cafeteria and kitchen be remodeled, gutted and newly built, or simply maintained? What are other options for food services (e.g., franchises) and use of the space? 12 R E C R U I T M E N T A N D A D M I S S I O N S : To assure continued quality candidates for Marian Catholic, should MCHS consider more extended service to areas for which surveys reveal a wish for Catholic secondary education but not the necessary financial backing? Are current recruitment and admission policies supporting our efforts to recruit and admit the most qualified candidates? 13 D I S T A N C E L E A R N I N G / D U A L C R E D I T P R O G R A M S : Should the use of selected distance satellite learning be expanded to provide curriculum opportunities in interest areas (i.e., Japanese) not now offered? If we agree to use distance learning beyond our immediate geographic area, how can we best meet the needs of students and retain MCHS’ integrity with regard to scholarship and faith? How could dual credit programs with colleges accomplish the same goals as distance learning and what would be the impact on our huge nineteen course A.P. Program?
FORENSICS
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Another aspect of the MCHS Program and equally enriching is the competition in the Illinois Public School Invitational. Many times this year, coaches from well known, powerful forensic schools have mentioned that Marian Catholic High School is on the map in this regard. The public school competitions are equally fun and rewarding. Sweeney said, “I like to refer to them as ‘the monsters.’ Quite frankly, a few of our students weren’t sure at first that they wanted to compete in such a huge program. But we did, and the results were amazing. In three tough tournaments, Marian Catholic did very well! At the Thornwood Tournament, Marian Catholic placed eleventh in the final round and received a third place. At the Stagg Charger Tournament, we placed first; we co-hosted a tournament and placed at the top. Few Marian Catholic students are hesitant—they want more. They recognize that great competition is available to well-practiced students. And, of course, we benefited immensely. Suddenly, our Public Address Program emerged in a powerful way. We mastered Radio Speaking (Michelle Pritchett), Oratory (Louis Packard), Special Occasion Speaking (Elaine Wilson)–and our above-named crew form the Catholic League gave us a unique position of strength.” Sweeney believes MCHS is in the early stages of this program—students are benefiting from different perspectives and applying their newfound knowledge, challenging their creativity, and learning incredible research skills.
John Irwin, Sr. Janice Greenwood and Margie Pelino, members of the Long Range Planning Foundation Committee, discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a foundation.
14 I N T E G R A L L E A R N I N G : Learning experiences that will make MCHS outstanding in the cross-curricular areas of math, science and writing are key to continued excellence. What direction should curriculum take to ensure a future-centered integral learning program that captures top scholars and enriches the lives of all MCHS students? 15 S E C U R I T Y : Examine current efforts being made for the safety of our students, staff and property. What steps can/should be taken with regard to policies, equipment and personnel relative to security? 16 F O U N D A T I O N : Study the implications of establishing a separate foundation for
the investment and distribution of restricted monies. What are the advantages/disadvantages of establishing a foundation? At what point and in what format would a foundation be beneficial to MCHS for its restricted investments? 17 S U M M E R P R O G R A M S : Summer programs hold tremendous potential for enrichment, recruitment and involvement. How can we make quality summer programs available to both MCHS students and junior high students? What types of programs are possibilities? What kinds of funding and staffing are available? 18 T E C H N O L O G Y : What impact would an integrated system using portal technology have on security, finance, curriculum and administrative procedures and student learning? What are the nature and advantages of this type of system for teachers, students, parents and what is the cost? 9
A strong Forensic/Speech Program supports and complements Marian Catholic’s mission. In describing the power of forensics with Marian Catholic High School, Sweeney notes, “Forensic competition is about audile intelligence—we can hear the thoughts of others and ourselves brought into a mastery level. The neatest aspect is the growth: students learn about one of the pillars of the Dominican Order through challenging and rewarding experiences. Some students learn that the funniest comedy selection can bring the same dignity as a very serious commentary. All the speech events are thoughtfulness, grace, and the voices of the Holy Spirit. In the long run, these are interior gifts that lead to responsible behaviors, selfconfidence, and very fond team memories.” The challenge of competition in both leagues maximizes opportunities for students and carries high the Marian Catholic banner of student achievement.
S PA N I S H T E A C H E R S B R I N G S E RV I C E TO P E R U Several groups, and Marian Catholic in particular, take advantage of the Lenten season to get more involved with service and mission work for others. However large or small the contribution, these efforts can be far-reaching. In the case of Marian Foreign Language teachers Tanya Wallace and Ryan Rockaitis, current efforts coordinated with the Homewood Rotary Club will be far-reaching and far-traveling. With the contact initiated by Rotarians and Alumni parents Rick and Donna Thiernau, the two Marian teachers got involved with teaching Spanish to Rotarians planning to make a mission trip to Cusco, Peru in May. They’ve also involved Marian students with donating supplies for the trip. “For 14 days, the medical team takes on as many patients as possible, literally hundreds of patients,” Wallace said. “The volunteers help with unpacking medical supplies, visiting with patients and delivering school supplies to a local school. Spanish teacher, Tanya Wallace, talking with students in her class. Wallace will be going on a Mission Trip with fellow Spanish teacher, Ryan Rockaitis, this summer. ¡Buen viaje, Señorita Wallace!
“The conditions of the area where the mission takes place are quite poor. The hospital is outdated and lacks proper facilities to care for patients, although medical treatment does go on daily without the Americans present. Medical equipment is in short supply. Hygiene knowledge is a problem. Basic conveniences like diapers, stethoscopes, rubber gloves and soap are lacking.”
Better news for the two Marian teachers eventually arrived, as there were two openings to travel in the mission group of 12. Wallace and Rockaitis volunteered without hesitation. “When Sr. Paul contacted me about the possibility of teaching Spanish to the Rotary Club members who will be venturing to Peru, I jumped at the opportunity,” Rockaitis said. “How could I say no to such a dedicated group? When I found out that I would be able to travel with them to Peru, I was ecstatic. For years it has been my dream to travel to Peru and explore Machu Picchu and other Incan treasures. Knowing that the entire trip is being organized in the spirit of service makes it all the more exciting. “I showed my classes a video on the Rotary Club’s last visit to Peru and we were all moved. Students are bringing in medical supplies, toys for the children in the hospital, and school supplies. I reminded them of a quotation from Gandhi: ‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world.’ I am proud to say, that in the true Marian spirit, they have already begun to be that change!” “I am very excited to participate in such an important medical mission trip,” Wallace said. “In the past I have taken several trips in the US to build and repair homes, but nothing like the Peru trip. I really don’t know what to expect. I also can’t believe the support that friends and family (even friends of friends of friends) have shown in donating items and cheering us on.” Along with making the trip, the Rotary Club is also responsible for collecting donations of Band-Aids, medications, toys, school supplies, diapers, hygiene products and sunglasses, among other items. Through Service Club, Spanish students, friends and family, the Marian community has become a strong assistant in this effort.
M A R I A N M A D N E S S E V E N T G ROW S Teams don’t make it to the Men’s NCAA Championship game without establishing some challenging goals for themselves. Just ask Syracuse, who upset Kansas in front of a good crowd at the First Annual “Marian Madness” last spring. Marian Madness II takes place on Monday, April 5. Another successful Marian Alumni Association event, the evening includes something for everyone with great food, friendship, games of skill and chance and, of course, NCAA Basketball on three 12’ x 12’ screens. The primary goal for Marian Madness is to serve as a fund-raiser for the Athletic Initiative at Marian (AIM), as the school strives to upgrade the current stadium and the west campus to serve Spartans well into the future. However, the evening goes well beyond raising the championship trophy in San Antonio and raising a few dollars for Marian Catholic. “It’s a great event to watch and a nice time to get together with friends and family,” explained
Madness committee member John Benish ’84. “It’s an event where you can meet friends and classmates you haven’t seen in a long time. You never know who you may bump into at Marian Madness night. It should become one of those alumni events that people really look forward to going to every year.” At just a $25 inclusive admission, Marian is hoping to keep the Madness event one that’s affordable and one that’s very appealing to young alum. Through a silent auction and other raffle/chance opportunities, Marian hopes to raise some necessary funds to help send west campus projects well on their way. Despite two successful Marian Madness events that provided fun and friendship for hundreds in attendance, the NCAA Championship event remains one of the best-kept secrets on the Alumni Association calendar. “The first couple of years have been fun and were really something to build on for the future,” Benish said. “As more people begin to come, it can turn into the major event we really want it to be. Hopefully, it will 10
Ray Murphy, Shannon Reidy ’90, Margaret Murphy and Pat Murphy enjoying the NCAA Championship game at Marian Madness held in Marian’s East Gym.
become a major annual event for a lot of people, like a Super Bowl party. “It’s always a game that’s fun to watch. But it’s also great to be with friends and to have an opportunity to help Marian Catholic at the same time.” More information about Marian Madness is available by calling the Office for Institutional Advancement at 708.755.6579.
M E M O R I A L S October 15, 2003 Margaret Ahern Jim Andrelich James R. Angio Mago Arellano Domenica Argento Wilbur Backus Robert Barlage Ray Barone Robert W. Bartlett Eleanor Barz Anne Basile Gilbert Britt Bates Timothy Benker ’90 John Bergera Kevin Beukema ’97 Raymond Biegel Catherine Bijak Mariellen Blidy Estelle Bojanowski John Bricks Ryan Brothers ’98 Beatrice Brown Florence Brunette Pat Bryant Elizabeth Byrne Brian Cahill ’94 Mary Calderone Angelo B. Candreva Donna Carlomango Kanehra Caston Paul Centanni George Chamber William Chapman Carmel Ciscato Marion Ruhl Cleary Val Daldegan Lisa Dangoia ’94 Edward Danko Aldo DeAngelis John DeBergh Constance “Sandy” DeFrank Joseph DeProsperis Dorothy L. Desmond Josephine DiMaggio Milton Dubczak Robert Edwards Kay Ehrmantraut Joseph Elam Tony Falvo Jerry Fares Bobbie Fewkes John Fleming Mary Forman Ian Frank Betty George Violet Gianetti Sharon Gianotti Thelma Gibson Agnes Golden Sandee Gomez William Grace Dr. James Graham Florence Grakowski
Eleanor Gray Barbara Ann Grupp Margaret Hamann Vincent Hattimer Frank Hefeli Stephen W. Helsel ’66 Eileen C. Heniff Frances Herrera Rita Hoerntlein Ann Hoffman Richard Hofkamp Leo T. Hogan Eloise Hughes James R. Huyler, Sr. Duke Iafallo Ethyl Ironsides Barbara Jackson Michelle Jackson Nancy Jaden Jerome Janowick Vitaut Janulis Bernard Jazdzewski Raymond L. Jenkins Waldemar Johansen Harold G. Johnson George Jostes Frank A. Kaman Charles Keating Daniel Kelly, III Frank Keres Dr. Joseph Ketay George Klupchak Donna Klyczek Gene Knoerzer Daniel Koehler Dorothy Kolczynski Edward Kozlowski Genevieve Kristovie Mary Krygier Joseph LaGreco George LaPorte Rose Lau James Lee John L. Leli Jacqueline Lester Mary Lispisa Roy E. Littner Verbal “Pete” Logris Richard W. Lorenz, Sr. Kathy Luther Mary Macaluso Ann Malizia Anthony Marazas Donna Marinovic Ida Martin Karen Martin Dan Mazar, Sr. James McCammack Joyce McCarron Michael J. McCaughey, Jr. Andrew Medansky Veronica Mezzich Virginia Miani
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February 19, 2004
Viola Miller Frank Minella Stell Misniakiewicz Joseph L. Mulville Sean Murray ’88 Kelly Nagle ’03 Lawrence Newling Phyllis P. Newren Mary Ann Nolan Joanne Nowak Catherine O’Connor Rev. William O’Connor Geraldine O’Donnell George O’Hea John O’Neill Charles G. O’Shea Robert C. Olsen Lydia Onofrio Mary Opiola Raymond Palerino Richard Pansa Ron Papp Mark Paredes ’74 Dean Perozzi ’94 Albert Petrarca Donna Petrovich Lottie Piazza Judy Piunti Mary Placek Father of Casey Plackett Raymond Planera Meg Platta Veregene Pokorny Mary Ann Polley Lew Porreca Margaret Potocny Pauline C. Potocny Nancy Molander Price ’71 Marie Prinzhorn Helen J. Przybylinski Wilma Quigley Marvin Qunell Connie D. Rabyak Filomena Ranieri Zorka Rapauch Frank Rauch Jr. William J. “Billy” Redican Stanley Reindl ’82 Peg Reindl Arlene S. Riechel Al Ritchie William “Wally” Rolniak Richard Romero Joe Roque Celia Rozek Louis Ruggeri Marge Saak Martina Saindon Michelle Salin ’01 Edward Sarna Dr. Frank Scaculla Eileen Scanlan Sheila Petrarca Schau ’69 11 13
Florence Schlueter Francis “Smitty” Schmitt Philip Schmitz ’99 Ann J. Schreiber John M. Schreiber Lena Schwab Laura Segala Jerry Sheehan Dorothy Shine Helen Shivers James Shutowski Robert D. Sieron Anthony Simonetti Baby Thomas Edward Simutis Joseph Skarvan Jean Skorzynski Gerie Skowronski Richard Slattery Thomas R. Small William H. Smith, Jr. William H. Smith, Sr. Nancy Soltis Michael & Violet Somin Richard Speaker Roy & Alice Spoonhour Lucy Stefani John W. Stephens Elizabeth J. Stephenson Jean Stewart Helen Stiegelman Helen Stur Christine Sudetic Joanne Supilowski Joseph Szawars Pete Talarico Rose Terracina Grace Terriquez Mary Thomas Anna Tisler Lois Toepfer Richard Tucker Frank Vacco Addison Grace Vazquez Bill Venlos Karen Lyman Wagner Aileen Walczak Alfred W. Welker Ewalt “Eddie” Welsh Josephine Wesolowski Paul Wilczynski ’80 Ida Mae Williams Margie Wohler Barbara Wojciak Olga Woodford Pamela Worley Ann Wydra Irene Zaffino Richard Zagone Abundio Zaragoza, Sr. Lorraine Zebrowski Audrey Zieske Edmund Zumbahlen
MN NI AALLUU M
Linda (Peppers) Spoleti ’66 is still teaching English at Maine South High School. She spent three weeks last summer teaching teachers in Lithuania through a program called the American Professional Partnership for Lithuanian Education. Linda keeps busy with her three grandchildren; Jessica (6), Callie (4), and Ryan (8 months). Linda Steinbart ’67 writes from sunny Arizona where husband Paul is a professor at Arizona State University, W.P. Carey School of Business, Department of Information Systems. Their daughter Stephanie was married to Anthony Johnson in April, daughter Elizabeth was accepted into the Barrett Honors College, Arizona State University, this fall. Mary McTigue ’76 has been elected Secretary/Treasurer of the 2004 Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses Board of Directors. Mary holds a Master of Arts degree in Nursing Mary McTigue ’76 Administration from New York University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Kean University. She also holds an Associate’s degree in Science from Union County College and a Diploma in Nursing from the Elizabeth General Hospital and Dispensary School of Nursing. Donna (Lux) Partl ’77 married Douglas Partl on June 20, 2003. The ceremony took place on a beautiful sunset beach in St. Lucia. Donna’s three daughters, Amy, Jessica and Lauren were among the guests who witnessed the exchange of vows. Jim Thompson ’78 lives in Lincoln, NE where he has been working for Ranza Restaurants as Director of Catering for the past five years. Ralph Bremigan ’80 and wife Elizabeth announce the adoption of their son Thomas Ivan Bremigan. Thomas was born December 31, 2002 in Kamensk-Shakhtinsky, Russia, and arrived home with Mom and Dad in Muncie, IN on October 11, 2003. Beth & Ralph are both faculty members in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Ball State University. Maureen (Smyth) Daughtery ’81 and husband Tim welcomed the birth of their third child, Liam Donovan, on October 5, 2003. Liam joins big brothers Sean Patrick (5) and Brendan Christopher (3). John Hemmerling ’81 and Lynda (Welch) Hemmerling ’85 have five wonderful children, Kristina (12), John (10), Bobby (8), Michael (6), and Ann Marie (3). The whole family plays soccer. John and Lynda are on an indoor,
N NO O TTEESS
adult co-rec soccer team. Lynda is a full-time mom who loves scrapbooking. She also works part-time as a reporter for Star Newspapers. John is an academic advisor for DePaul University’s School for New Learning. He received his master’s in math education and teaches several classes at DePaul. Rev. David Straub ’81 is currently on sabbatical, living on the south side. He is taking the time to promote his new fictional novel, Playground, which is a novel that explores moral choices. Rev. Straub is working on another book and already has written a sequel to Playground. His book is available online and will be available in some independent bookstores by the end of May. Joyce Bozacki-Rae ’83 and her husband Jeff Rae recently returned home from a three week stay in Moscow, Russia, where they completed the adoption of their daughter, Tegan Elizabeth Rae. Tegan, born August 9, 2002, joins older brother, Colin Michael, who turned two in December. Kathleen Bewley ’85 received her medical degree from Midwestern University, College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency at University of Illinois at Chicago and is Board Certified in Family Medicine. She has an office in the new Franciscan Medical Pavilion at the Olympia Fields Campus of St. James. Mary Pat (Donahue) Griswold ’85 and husband William welcomed baby girl, Kerry Elizabeth, on September 24, 2003. Kerry joins siblings Katie (5), Charlie (3) and Michael (2). Danelle (Morford) Bernas ’86 and her husband David welcomed their new son, Michael David, born on July 1, 2003. Michael joins big sister Lauren (5). Randy Boisvert ’86 and his wife Dawn were blessed with their first child, a son, Roman Joseph, on November 6, 2003. Randy recently earned his MS from Illinois Institute of Technology. A.J. Palmisano ’86 recently received his fourth patent. In 1995 he received his MBA from DePaul University in Finance and in 1990 his B.S. from University of Illinois in Mechanical Engineering. A.J and his wife Stacey have a 4 year old son, Joey and a 2 year old daughter, Courtney. Julie (Mazzocca) Connors ’87 and husband Bob welcomed the birth of their fifth child, Ryan Kelsey on September 1, 2003. Ryan’s siblings are Sean (8), Tyler (6), Megan (4), and Ian (2). Rhonda (Bolda) Divine ’88 and husband Mike welcomed the birth of their second daughter, Natalie Noel, Born on September 16, 2003. She joins her big sister, Livie who is now 2 years old. Rhonda still works part time as a radiologic technologist in the OR department at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Crown Point, IN. 12 13
Debra (Zagotta) Gum ’88 and husband Sean recently finalized the adoption of Carlos Remize Gum on October 26, 2003. They are happy to have Carlos as a new member of their family. Debra took a sabbatical from teaching to stay at home and is working on her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Central Michigan. Linda Ann Wurtz Witek ’88 is living in Naperville and engaged to Brian Dziewinski. They are planning a July wedding. Linda is a manger in the Health Information Management Department at the University of Illinois Medical Center. Brian is a police officer for the Village of Franklin Park. Linda has two children, Billy (10) and Emily (8). Ed Franczyk ’89 and wife Beth were recently blessed with the arrival of their first daughter Olivia Elise. Olivia arrived September 28, 2003 weighing in at 7 pounds, 15 ounces, and 21 inches long. Ed is currently VP/Foreman for Hytone Concrete and Beth is the Pom/Dance Director for Providence Catholic High School. Colleen (O’Brien) King ’89 and husband Jon welcomed the birth of their son, Justin Nicholas, on April 17, 2003. He is little brother to his half-brother, Brice, who is 9 years old.
John and Lynda (Welch) Hemmerling ’81 ’85 with their five beautiful children Kristina 12, John 10, Bobby 8, Michael 6, and AnnMarie 3.
Desma (Ciaglia) Rozovics ’89 and husband Michael welcomed the birth of their first child, Soren Michael, on July 30, 2003. Jeff Segebarth ’89 was married November 1, 2003 to Mary Ann Myers at St. Michael’s Church in Chicago. Groomsmen included Chad Kramer ’89 and best man Dave Segebarth ’87. Bridesmaids included Susan (Segebarth) Hughes ’86. Jeff & Mary Ann reside in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. Christine (Albrecht) Cagwin ’90 and husband Mark were blessed with their first child, Rachel Lynn, on September 9, 2003. Rachel weighed in at 9 pounds 1 ounce and 21 inches long. She joins her cousins Lynn, Bobby and Tammy and makes the 4th grandchild for Carol Albrecht (MCHS Office Secretary 1981-1991).
ALUMNI
Soren Michael Rozovics, son of Desma (Ciaglia) Rozovics ’89.
Rarick Witvoet ’90 and his wife Tressa welcomed the birth of their second daughter, Charlotte Denise, born on September 3, 2003. She weighed 9 pounds. Her older sister Alyssa (2), is very excited! Corina (McCarty) Davis ’91 and husband Mike will celebrate their first child’s birthday on November 5, 2003. Joshua Michael will be one year old. The Davis’ are building a house in Channahon, IL. Corina is a stay at home mom. Matt Gaughan ’91 and his wife Mildred are happy in Homewood with their three little ones Matthew, Santiago and Alana. Carrie Lentz ’91, daughter of August and Kathleen (Schultz) Lentz ’64 recently passed the Colorado State Bar Exam. Carrie is a 1999 graduate of Creighton University, School of Law. She resides in Colorado Springs and is a Senior Legal Editor for the publishing company, Lexis-Nexis. Karen (Bolde) Nichols ’91 is living in Chicago with her husband and two sons Jake & Jimmy, and is currently working towards her master’s as a family nurse practitioner. Kerry (Reidy) Paris ’91 and husband Marty welcomed the birth of their twin sons on February 17, 2004. F. Martin arrived at 7:03 am weighing 6 pounds 1 ounce and little brother, Conor, followed at 7:05 am weighing 5 pounds 9 ounces. Antonietta (Femminella) Scalzo ’91 and husband, Giuseppe, welcomed the birth of their son, Gianluca, born on December 23, 2003. He joins big sister, Isabella (1 1/2). Amber Lucsay ’92 earned her law degree from University of Wisconsin in December 2003. Dawn (Johnson) Beres ’93 and husband James welcomed the birth of their daughter, Mia Kathleen on April 9, 2003. Erik Markov ’93 currently a staff photographer for the Kokomo Tribune was recently awarded first place in the photo story category of the Indiana News Photographer’s Association monthly contest. The story documented a Kokomo man’s struggle as he waited to receive a lung transplant and his subsequent recovery after the transplant. Erik has been with the Kokomo Tribune since May 2001.
NOTES
Robert McLaughlin ’93 married Carla Medina on August 16, 2003. Geoff McNeil ’93 is currently a Ph.D. student in English Literature at University of California, Santa Barbara. Peter Rubinas ’93 and wife Tara welcomed the birth of their son, Patrick Leonard, on September 26, 2003. Patrick weighed 6 pounds 10 ounces and was 20 inches long. Kevin Coy ’94 married Theresa in June 2003 and they are expecting their first child in April 2004. Mary (Majda) Lynch ’94, updates she is happily married to Michael a carpenter/firefighter. She is busy with her job as a social worker and son Kevin Michael who celebrated his first birthday in November. Prayers for younger brother Marty Majda ’99 serving in Iraq. Cheri Dangoy ’94 married Matthew Niemiec in October 2003. They currently reside in Homewood, IL along with her daughter Adira who is in 1st grade at St. Joseph School. Kelly Rae Scott ’94 married Jacob Gannon of Peoria, IL on October 18, 2003. Kelly is a registered nurse at St. Vincent Hospital and a graduate student at Indiana University. Jacob, is the facility manager for the Chemical Coating Division of Sherwin Williams. They live in Fishers, IN. Jodie (Resedean) Stein ’94 and husband Mitch are expecting their first child (a boy rumor has it) in January. They met after graduating from Eastern Illinois University.
Mitch went on at North Eastern to earn his masters and is a special education teacher at Parker Junior High in Flossmoor. Jodie is a contract manger for SBC Midwest. They have a new home in Mokena. Kevin Walery ’94 is engaged to marry Tanya Wallace. Kevin is a Dean at Crete Monee High School and Tanya is a teacher at Marian Catholic. They are Olivia Franczyk, daughter planning a July of Ed Franczyk ’89. 2004 wedding. Melanie (Bertrand) Koreman ’95 and husband Paul welcomed the birth of their second child, Gabriella Pamela, on March 8, 2003. Ed Lechner ’95 lives in Cordova, TN (a suburb of Memphis) and works as a chemical engineer for Cargill, Inc. Ed is halfway to his MBA from Christian Brothers University inMemphis. Ed is engaged to April Pairmore, who works in the Information Management Department of Methodist Hospital in Memphis. The couple plans a May 2004 wedding. Dan Komer ’96 is a manager for Aldi Corporation. In May 2004, he will marry Bolie Krisch, whom he met while attending the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Dan is a 2000 graduate of the University. 13
Fred Wix ’96 graduated from Loras College in December 2000 with a major in marketing and a minor in history. He worked for the Chicago White Sox in Sales and Marketing in 2001 and than worked for the Quad City River Bandits as sales director in 2002. In the spring of 2003 he moved to Myrtle Beach, SC and has begun a second undergraduate course in Marine Science at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC. He also joined the Army Reserves. Mary Linder ’97 graduated in 2002 from Loyola University with a B.A. in Political Science. She is working for De La Salle Institute as a Development Associate. Mary recently became engaged to Dan Aske of Mundelein, IL, who is a graduate of DePaul University.
Jack and new baby Gianna Zampillo, son and daughter of Joe ’89 and Dana Zampillo.
Sarah Lopez ’97 is engaged to Andrew Ruehl of Whitefish Bay, WI. They met at the University of Iowa where Sarah graduated with a B.A. in Sociology. Sarah works for the Social Security Administration in Milwaukee. Andrew has his B.A. in Communication Studies and does PR for the Milwaukee Fair Housing Council. A wedding date is set for October 23, 2004. Leslie Spires ’97 graduated from Columbia College in Multi-Media in June, 2003. He is currently enrolled in a master’s program at Olivert College in Education. Andrea Monte Turner ’97 is currently earning her MBA from the University of Phoenix, and says “all the long papers” helped her prepare for college and graduate school. Andrea and husband Scott are busy raising their three little ones Miguel, Raymond and Gabriella. Andrea is project coordinator for the University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Anesthesiology.
Patrick Leonard Rubinas, son of Peter Rubinas ’93.
ALUMNI
Edward Goff, son of Adam’98 and Jennifer (Linko) Goff ’97.
Adam ’98 and Jennifer (Linko) Goff ’97 welcomed the birth of their son, Edward Michael, on October 22, 2003. He weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces and was 20 inches. Adam Heun ’98 married Maureen Spizziri at a holiday wedding December 27, 2003. Richard Lutkus ’98 is completing his final year of law school at Creighton University School of Law in their accelerated 3/3 Business/Law Program. He will graduate in May ’04 and hopes to take the bar exam in July. John Moore ’98 graduated from Kent State University with a B.S. in Marketing. He is currently living in Newbury, OH. This past holiday season, Patrick Sheehan ’98, a music major at Northern Illinois University, performed at NIU’s Recital Hall. Patrick just passed his one-year mark at Northern Public Radio in DeKalb where he is an announcer during the week, and host for The Saturday Night Blues each weekend. He invites everyone to tune in through the website at www.NorthernPublicRadio.org, click on the 89.5 WNIJ button and then click on WNIJ News. Jack Chavez ’99 graduated from Northern Illinois University on December 14, 2003 with a history degree. He hopes to attend Law School. Jocelyn Delk ’99 graduated from Clark Atlanta University with a degree in Mass Communications. While at CAU she obtained Deans List Honors and was a member of Golden Key International Honor Society, was active in productions and performance, volunteered as a mentor and tutor. She currently continues as CAU Alumni Association Publicist, and is an active member in the NAACP and the United Negro College Fund. Jocelyn is a Production Assistant for “The Judge Mathis Show” and does other freelance TV and film work. Lauren Dixon ’99 graduated from Bradley University where she was active in NAACP, Black Student Alliance and the Activities Council of Bradley University. Lauren Hecht ’99 updates from the University of Iowa where she is pursuing her Ph.D. Lauren graduated with honors in psychology from Albion College.
NOTES
Erin Hurtubise ’99 is currently a preschool teacher for Bright Start after graduating Cum Laude from Winona State University. In the fall Erin plans to pursue a degree in school counseling. Ann Mizwicki ’99 graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in social work. Ann earned Dean’s List honors and studied in Canterbury, England for a semester. Kevin Whittingham ’99 and Colleen Savage ’99 were married on March 13, 2004. Steven Zencka ’99 has joined the Marine Corp. He is looking forward to boot camp. Sean Hightower ’00 will be graduating from Loyola University in the spring of 2004 with a major in psychology and minor marketing. Nicholas McDonnell ’00 has been awarded the Knights of St. Patrick Award from the College of Engineering at the University of Illinois. This highest honor is given based on leadership, academics and exceptional contribution to the School of Engineering. Nick will graduate in May 2004, in the top 1% of his class. He will continue his education at the University of Illinois working toward a masters degree in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in semi conductor materials and devices. Matt Bartolini ’01 was offensive and defensive line coach for Don Pirkle as their Frankfort Square Wildcats Pop Warner football Team went 14-0 and won the Youth Metro League Championship in the state of Illinois. They went on to win the Winston-Salem National Championship tournament in North Carolina. Matt is also a full time student majoring in criminal justice with a 3.5 GPA. Ashley Caridine ’01 made Lewis University Dean’s List for the fall 2003 semester.
Melissa Fedora ’01 is a producer/co-host at 88.1 WCRX radio morning show.
F. Martin and twin brother, Conor Paris, sons of Marty and Kerry (Reidy) ’91 Paris.
Samantha Schreiber ’01 is working as a pharmacy technician while earning her degree in nursing from South Suburban College. Following graduation she and fiancé Ryan Staley plan a June ’05 wedding. Kathleen Hickey ’01 made the Dean’s List at Purdue and will be honored at a ceremony in April. She is also featured in the March Purdue alumni magazine as a dancer.
Michael James Myette, son of Erika (Fuehrmeyer) ’95 and Michael-John Myette, prays for a Fighting Irish victory at the Notre Dame grotto last fall.
Kelly (Scott) ’94 and Jacob Gannen married on October 18, 2003.
Gina DiCarlo ’01 moved to Arizona and is currently attending Arizona State University, majoring in political science. She finished her first semester on the Dean’s Honor List and is active in her honors fraternity Sigma Alpha Lambda. She is currently working on her list of law school applications. 14
Christine Drankiewicz ’03 made the Dean’s List her first semester at Western Illinois University. Christine is part of the ROTC program. Elita Hohner ’03, a National Merit Scholar majoring in psychology has been selected as one of 15 Presidential Scholars among Illinois Wesleyan’s class of 585 first-year students. This award recognizes first-year students who have shown excellence both in and out of the classroom. Kathryn Vallis ’03 achievements have merited her being named to the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s List at Loyola University. Stephen Zahradnik ’03 is president of his dormitory at Loyola University. The dorm houses over 600 students and he leads the resident hall government.
WA N T YO U R N E X T M A R I A N M AT T E R S S E N T TO YO U V I A E M A I L ? You can receive your next issue of Marian Matters electronically. It will be sent in a file format through Adobe Acrobat PDF (compatible with both Mac and PC). If you do not have Adobe Acrobat PDF don’t fret, in your email we can also send you the link to download Adobe Acrobat absolutely free. All we need is your name and email address. Fill out the attached form, or log on to www.marianchs.com, fill out the Alumni Survey form and check the appropriate box. Name______________________________________________________________________________Class of _____________ Email Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________
✁ W H A T ’ S T H E N E W S W I T H YO U , A L U M ? Tell us any interesting news, events, or milestones in your life (marriage, children, promotions, service, career moves, etc.) that you would like to share with your fellow alumni. Also, please be sure to use this form to update information. Name(s) ____________________________________________________________________________________Class of _____________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ Is this a new address? Yes No City ____________________ State ________ Zip________________ E-Mail ________________________________________________ Home Phone _____________________________________________ Work Phone ____________________________________________ NEWS _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Occupation/Position ______________________________________________________________________________________________
send to: Marian Catholic High School, Alumni Relations Director 700 Ashland Avenue, Chicago Heights, Illinois 60411 fax: 708.756.9759 • e-mail: alumni@marianchs.com
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W O U L D YO U L I K E T O S H A R E YO U R E X P E R T I S E ? ❑ My name / address on reverse is correct.
❑ Please make corrections as needed. Email: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Best phone to reach me: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
Career Day ❑ I would be willing to place my name on the Career Day’s Speakers’ Bureau list. (A time commitment from 11a.m. to 2 p.m. one day in the spring is necessary.)
My specific focus would be __________________________________________________________________________________________
Career Mentor ❑ I would be willing to host a student to “shadow” me at my work place at a mutually agreeable time. Job / Career / Field: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Phone: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ❑ I live out of town (or have a career where job “shadow” is difficult) but would be willing to serve as a resource by phone / email to the MCHS Guidance Department should a student wish to explore my field of expertise which is: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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M A R I A N
C A T H O L I C
ALUMNI A S S O C I A T I O N
Office for Institutional Advancement M ARIAN C ATHOLIC H IGH S CHOOL 700 Ashland Avenue Chicago Heights, IL 60411 708.755.6579 www.marianchs.com
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage
PA I D Permit No. 274 Tinley Park, IL
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
UPCOMING EVENTS CAREER DAY This year’s Alumni Career Day will take place Monday, May 10, 2004. If you are interested in talking to Marian Students about your career, please contact the Alumni Office.
ENDOWMENT CLASSIC The annual Marian Catholic High School Endowment Classic will take place at Idlewild and Ravisloe Country Clubs on August 16, 2004. If you would like to golf or take advantage of our sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Advancement Office.
CAREER MENTOR PROGRAM The Career Mentor Program is a year round program, which brings together Marian Catholic High School Alumni and Students. If you would like to share your career by having a Marian student shadow you at your place of business, or perhaps serve as a Mentor via email or phone, please contact Erin DeBruin ’99 in the Alumni Office.
REUNIONS Class of 1999 – October 9, 2004 Class of 1994 – October 9, 2004 Class of 1984 – TBD Class of 1979 – August 28, 2004 Class of 1974 – TBD Class of 1969 – TBD Class of 1964 – TBD
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFICERS C HRISTOPHER C UMMINGS ’76 Chairperson
C OLLEEN (O’N EIL ) R ANIERI ’83 Vice Chairperson
O U R M I S S I O N AT M A R I A N C AT H O L I C Marian Catholic, under the sponsorship of the Springfield Dominicans, is a coeducational, college preparatory high school where students seek truth, exhibit personal responsibility, cultivate their individual talents, and demonstrate Christian service and leadership.