TH
Empire
Winter 2012
The Official Magazine of Alumni, Family, and Friends of
1993
Roman Catholic High School 1997
1960 2010
2011
Success Through the Years
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Roman Catholic High School
Catholic High Alumni Fostering Faith...Expanding Knowledge
President/Rector Rev. John B. Flanagan
Table of Contents IBC + GPALA.......................................pg. 5
Principal Mr. Robert P. O'Neill
Communion Breakfast Recap.…….…..pg. 6
Alumni Association
2012 SHOF Inductees............................pg. 9
President Mr. Lawrence J. Elliott '66 Executive Director of Insitutional Advancement Ms. Denise LePera Director of Development Ms. Ann Vassallo Director of Marketing Mr. Steven M. Ziegler '04
Exclusively on Facebook.......................pg. 7
In Retrospect........................................pg. 11 Romauction 2012 Carnevale in Venice.............................pg. 14 Standing Tall in Trying Times....................................pg. 16 A Word from the DIA..........................pg. 17 Un Grand' Insegnante..........................pg. 18
The Usuals
Coordinator of Development Services Mrs. Terri Evans
From the Desk of the Rector..........................................pg. 3
Bookkeeper Mrs. Kathleen Kelly
A Message from the Alumni President..................................pg. 4 Athletics................................................pg. 8
Contributors
Kevin Budianto '12 Lawrence Elliott '66 Rev. John B. Flanagan Steve Johnston '10 Tom Kearney '58 Denise LePera John Livewell '91 Francis Markocki '13 Marc Stezzi '13
Editor: Steve Ziegler '04 Thank you to all Alums who send in their class notes each issue!
Class Notes..........................................pg. 10 Around Roman....................................pg. 12 Event Calendar.....................................pg. 15 In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made in the name of your loved one to Roman Catholic High School Roman Catholic High School 301 N. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19107 For more information, contact Alumni@RomanCatholicHS.com To have your intentions included at daily Mass at Catholic High, contact Pray@RomanCatholicHS.com
Necrology
Alumni
Herbert F. Slook '34 George J. Bentz '40 John J. Bolton '43 Thomas Howlett '44 John S. Daly '45 James F. Shields '45 Joseph N. Pacenza '46 William L. Santry '47 Louis C. Cappiella '47 Anthony I. Boyce '48 Frank Dabrowski '48 Anthony J. D'Lauro, Jr. '49 Thomas M. Hageman '50 Robert J. Schaefer '50 William Stanton '53 Charles E. Mallon '53 James Whitford '53 Richard R. Caron '55 William S. Knopf '55 James B. McBride, Sr. '55 William C. Kienzle '56 Samuel Costantini '57 William F. Mitros '58 Robert Lees '58 Raymond P. Blocker '59 Richard J. Queppet '59 Charles Patterson '63 Thomas Davis '64 William J. Murphy '67 Dennis Brogan '67 Robert P. McCoach '71 Robert J. McHale '72
Family & Friends
Julia C. Skavicus Wife of Al Skavicus '40 Helen Gaughan Wife of Richard '73 Barry Irwin Father of Brandon '11 David P. Leahy Son of Rev. Eugene '45, Brother of Jack '73, Peggy Hughes Sister of Jim '52 Mary K. McKeever Mother of Thomas Elizabeth Livewell Grandmother of John '91, Michael '94 and Joseph '03 Angeline Pandaleno Mother of Antonette Guglielmelli Helen Whitaker Aunt of Joseph Cunningham '70 Henry R. Marek Father of Henry '78 Stanley D. Konopka Father of Stanley '90 Please contact Terri Evans regarding omissions or additional deceased alumni, family and friends at tevans@romancatholichs. com or 215-627-5487, ext. 310.
On the Cover
The 100th Graduating Class of Roman Catholic High on the steps. In the foreground, Msgr. Beach ’67 stands with Dan DiLella ’69 and Peter Longstreth, some of the key figures in the establishment of Renaissance Hall. DiLella and Longstreth still remain strong voices and leaders for the future of Roman through their roles on the Board of Advisors. Coach Dan Algeo rallies the Cahillites in their last varsity football game at Cahill Field in 1997, a 41-0 victory over West Catholic. Students taking accelerated courses in 1960. Yeiron Corneil ’11 lights a candle at the 2010 National Honor Society Induction ceremony. Students in 2011 in their finest formal wear at the Union League of Philadelphia.
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The Empire
From the Desk of the Rector
Dear Roman Family, “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for everything under the heavens…A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…He has made everything appropriate to its time, and has put the timeless into their hearts, without man’s ever discovering, from beginning to end, the work which God has done.” (Eccl.3: 1-11) With regards to the Blue Ribbon Commission’s report about the closures and mergers of archdiocesan grade schools and high schools, this is certainly a momentous time, which included much weeping and mourning, and a time of change for the face of the future of Catholic education. In this issue of The Empire, several writers mention this sensitive and difficult topic. Please note that when this issue went to the printers, the appeal process was underway and no final decision had been reached about which schools will close, merge or remain open. Nonetheless, we feel we should discuss the current educational environment in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and at Roman Catholic High School. Rev. John B. Flanagan On January 6, 2012 at Neumann University, the Blue Ribbon Commission presented its findings 13th Rector of and announced the fate of our Catholic schools. Principals, pastors, presidents and others gathered Roman Catholic anxiously. The last person to speak was Archbishop Charles Chaput. What stands out for me was his plea to us as Catholic leaders to lead with a positive, courageous and creative vision for the future of Catholic education. In that sense and request, I suggest that we realize the intensely sensitive nature of the times, and one, pray for a successful educational transition for every student, teacher and everyone involved; and two, work courageously and creatively for the future good of Catholic education in the Archdiocese and at Roman Catholic. Several important steps have taken place recently at Roman to enhance our educational environment: 1.) On January 18, we held a “neighborhood meeting” in Roman’s board room to discuss how we can work together to make our local community better, brighter and safer. Represented were developers, business owners, community leaders, human services leaders, Philadelphia Police, the Philadelphia Public School District, and members of Roman’s Board of Advisors. Philadelphia City Council was not in attendance, and we are currently scheduling to meet with our local councilman. We all agreed on this important step to secure the betterment of our community and to voice our concerted opinions to City Council. I will keep you updated. 2.) The Cahill Trust held our annual meeting on January 5, 2012 in the office of the trust chair, Archbishop Chaput. He was quite happy to hear about the success of Roman Catholic. Most importantly, we were given the blessing of Archbishop Chaput and Dr. McCarron, Secretary of Catholic Education, to pursue our plans for the expansion of classrooms, the cafeteria, and one day, a new field house. I will keep you updated. 3.) Roman’s Distributed Leadership Team (a funded program from the University of Pennsylvania) consisting of 5 faculty and 2 administrators formalized plans to keep pace with the world of technology, by distributing an iPad to every incoming freshman this fall. We are working together to courageously and creatively enhance the entire educational environment of a school founded in 1890, as we forge ahead to our 125th anniversary in 2015. As Roman Catholic is the founding model of an archdiocesan high school system of education throughout the country, I am also very happy to report that we are faithful to our Catholic tradition as we participated in two important events: 1.) 43 students, 2 parents, Fr. Casey (School Minister), Mr. Cunningham '70 (moderator of the Pro-Life Club) and I attended the March for Life in Washington, D.C., on January 23. As Mr. Cunningham commended the students for their attendance and enthusiasm, he reminded them that he wants the Pro-Life Club to be the most important student organization in the school due to the nature of its essential Catholic beliefs about the dignity of all life! 2.) On January 30 and 31, we held Forty Hours Eucharistic Devotions. I said the Opening Mass of Forty Hours and Catholic Schools Week at the Cathedral, with a closing Procession of the Blessed Sacrament and the recitation of the Divine Praises. The next day at school, theology classes attended day-long Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in our makeshift gymnasium chapel. Fr. Casey then led an eighth period Benediction Service attended by every theology class. We are proud and honored to foster the faith at Catholic High! As we are trying to respond to Archbishop Chaput’s call to be positive, creative and courageous, I challenge you, the great alumni of Roman Catholic, to get on board in anyway you can: your time, talent and treasure will always help our young men to graduate from your alma mater, and become solid citizens and Catholic and Christian gentleman in society. God bless you and God bless the Roman Family! Peace, Fr. John B. Flanagan, Rector jflanagan@RomanCatholicHS.com, 215.627.1270 ext. 110
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The
Empire
A Message from the Alumni President Dear Fellow Alums, As always, this school year has been yet another shining moment in the history of Roman Catholic. The mid-year mark has shown our students excelling as national merit honorees, actively assisting people in their communities, and reaching the threshold of several Catholic League championships. Still, this is a trying time for Catholic education. The closures of four Diocesan high schools as well as the mergers and closures of 45 Catholic elementary schools bring to mind a time in the not so distant past of our beloved Catholic High. Looking at the storied Philadelphia institutions of West Catholic, Saint Hubert’s, Conwell-Egan, Monsignor Bonner and Archbishop Prendergast allows us to understand just how important Catholic schools are to the City of Philadelphia. The Diocesan system, as we know, began with our own founder’s dream. In today’s world, I believe a sympathetic Thomas E. Cahill would say that sometimes changes need to be made. This is not a time for division. Rather, it is a time for those of us involved with Catholic education to stand together in the faith and enter this new era. The progressive nature of Roman Catholic High School over the past three decades is leading us into this era. Our history, curriculum, and now our location, make us the most viable option for single-sex Catholic education in Philadelphia. Roman is working as a community to make the next expansion of the school a reality. When Renaissance Hall was constructed, it was the culmination of the diligent work that brought us out of the 1980s where we were face to face with closure. With the advent of the McSherry Annex, we cemented our place in education and told the world we are here to stay. Planning to expand down the Vine Street corridor will illustrate where we are going. One man’s gift has become the lasting legacy of generations of men and as the current face of this Alumni Association, I am thankful and humbled by your ongoing support. Embarking on this new time in education will be, for lack of a better word, interesting. The confidence we as alums have shown in our alma mater has disseminated throughout the Delaware Valley as we garner the support of families, politicians, and former rivals who believe in the mission of Thomas E. Cahill. We are an institution committed to expanding the knowledge of young men. Now, more than ever, we need the faith to do so. Fides et Scientia. Faith and Knowledge. Sincerely,
Lawrence J. Elliott '66 President Roman Catholic High School Alumni Association
Cahill Club Honorees
Join Us At This Year's Cahill Club Awards May 23, 2012 Keenan's Valley View Inn Thomas E. Cahill Award
Daniel M. DiLella ’69
McSherry Appreciation Award for Service
Lawrence J. Elliott ’66
Distinguished Alumni Award
Rev. Joseph W. Bongard ’77 Teacher of the Year
Reserve Your Tickets by visitng www.RCHSAlumni.org/CahillClub Contact Terri Evans, Coordinator of Development Services 215.627.5487 ext. 310 or Alumni@RomanCatholicHS.com
Mr. William Dunas Student of the Year
Charles Taylor ’12
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Roman Catholic High School
IBC + GPALA = Great Things for RCHS
Roman Catholic High School is proud to announce that Daniel J. Hilferty, President and CEO of Independence Blue Cross has been selected as the 2012 recipient of the Greater Philadelphia Area Leadership Award. The award will be presented on Thursday October 18, 2012 at a black tie affair held at the Union League of Philadelphia. Since its inception, the award has raised more than $2 million for the benefit of Roman Catholic High School for Boys. Past recipients of the Greater Philadelphia Area Leadership Award include former Pennsylvania governor and Philadelphia mayor, Edward G. Rendell, 44th Governor of Pennsylvania and former President, Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, Mark S. Schweiker, Past President of Drexel University, Constantine Papadakis, and President and CEO of PECO, Denis P. O’Brien. Over the years, the Greater Philadelphia Leadership Award has become and excellent opportunity for philanthropists of the Philadelphia business community to express their support for Catholic education, specifically the education provided by Roman Catholic High School.
Daniel J. Hilferty is president and chief executive officer of Independence Blue Cross, a leading health insurer in southeastern Pennsylvania with nearly 3.1 million members nationwide, including 2.2 million in the region. He assumed the role of president and CEO in December 2010, and is a member of the company’s board of directors.Hilferty has more than 25 years of experience in health care, government affairs, communications, and education, and he speaks regularly on topics such as health care reform. Before serving as Independence Blue Cross president and CEO, Hilferty was president of Independence Blue Cross’s health markets, which included the company’s sales, marketing, and subsidiary operations, and had profit-loss responsibility for the company’s five-county core business. Hilferty joined Independence Blue Cross in January 2010 after a successful tenure as president and chief executive officer of AmeriHealth Mercy Family of Companies, a Medicaid managed care services company serving 6.5 million people nationwide. AmeriHealth Mercy is jointly owned by Independence Blue Cross and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Prior to this role, Hilferty had been a senior vice president of corporate and government affairs for Mercy Health System in southeastern Pennsylvania. He had also served as the executive director of PennPorts with the Office of Pennsylvania Governor Robert P. Casey, a role in which he managed all economic development programs and legislative relations related to the ports of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Erie. In 1994, Hilferty ran for the position of lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania. Deeply committed to our region, Hilferty lends his time and expertise to a number of organizations. In addition to his corporate responsibilities, he currently serves on the Board of Overseers of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and on the boards of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition, J.J. White Inc., and the Irish Educational Development Foundation. He is a member of the board of trustees of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, Drexel Neumann Academy, and the vice chair of the board of trustees of Saint Joseph’s University. In 2008, Saint Joseph’s University’s Erivan K. Haub School of Business honored alumnus Hilferty with its Hall of Fame award. Nationally, Hilferty serves on the board of directors for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association — a national federation of 39 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for nearly one in three Americans — and for America’s Health Insurance Plans, a national association representing nearly 1,300 member companies providing health insurance coverage to more than 200 million Americans. Hilferty's longstanding commitment to the community is evidenced by his work with the Pedro Arrupe Center for Business Ethics and his role as chair of the Drexel Neumann Academy Development Committee. He was honored in 2009 by Philadelphia’s Northern Home for Children for his work bettering the lives of underserved children. Hilferty received a master’s degree in public administration from American University in Washington, DC, and a bachelor of science in accounting from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. He resides in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Joan, and their five children. Reserve Your Tickets Today. To Attend, Sponsor, or Purchase a Program Advertisement, Contact Terri Evans, Coordinator of Development Services, 215.627.5487 ext. 310 or visit www.RCHSAlumni.org/LeadershipAward2012
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The Empire
Communion Breakfast O
n Sunday, November 20, 2011, the Roman Catholic High School family gathered on a blustery morning to celebrate the Annual Communion Breakfast. The classes of 1961, 1986, and 2006 celebrated their 50th, 25th, and 5th graduation anniversaries from Catholic High. The Sons of Cahill, more than 800 strong, gathered with current students at the Cathedral Basilica of Ss. Peter and Paul, the church Cahillites call their own. After joining together at Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Michael J. Bransfield ’61 and concelebrated by ordained members of the Roman community, many Cahillites sat together for the first time since graduation, to enjoy breakfast at the Sheraton Hotel. Once there, they were inspired by the words of principal speaker Jay Wright, who explained the correlation between his faith and his success as the head basketball coach of the Villanova Wildcats. Alums also enjoyed many laughs courtesy of Toastmaster Thomas “Ace” McCann ’61, who poked fun at longtime friends like 50th Reunion Chair Tom Moore ’61 and Roman supporters like Speedy Morris ’60, who has remained dedicated to Catholic High as the Annual Giving Chair. Thanks to the graduates of Roman Catholic, especially those in the Class of 1961, generations of young men will continue to graduate and keep traditions like the Communion Breakfast alive and well.
One Gift. 121 Years of Catholic Education. Consider Planned Giving
•Many people make cash gifts. However, appreciated securities receive the same deduction as cash gifts, and you pay no capital gains tax on the transfer. •You can also consider donating a life insurance policy whose coverage your family no longer needs, or real estate like a second home or a parcel of undeveloped land, or even a collection of books or artwork that you no longer want. •You can make a gift that costs you nothing during your lifetime by naming Roman Catholic as a beneficiary of your will or revocable trust, or of your retirement plan.
Keep Catholic High in Your Will
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The Empire
"Alumni Profiles" Exclusively on Facebook
Since late November, the RCHS Alumni Association has been proudly featuring some of our most notable Cahillites with profiles linked to our Facebook page. Over the past 122 years, the men who have left Catholic High have done so filled with ambition to make a difference in their respected fields. From the stars that are known nationally to your neighborhood hero — suggestions for these profiles are always welcome and are posted every week on our Facebook page.
Faith
Msgr. John Bonner, Class of 1908 Founded the Philadephia Catholic League, hailed as “the best-known Catholic educator in the country.’’
Athletics Robert ‘Bob’ Evans, Class of 1949 The first African-American Captain of the University of Pennsylvania football team.
Communication To see all of the Facenda, Class of 1933 Cahillite profiles, visit John The baritone voice of NFL Films, a legendary American us on broadcaster. www.RCHSAlumni.org Science
Jack Yasonov, Class of 1950 Designed the AM VHF transmitter used by Neil Armstrong to announce his “one small step” to the world.
Golf. A Gentleman's Game. Three Great Opportunities to Golf for the Roman Family Henry W. Zakrzewski 3rd Annual Golf Outing
Monday, April 16, 2012 $125 per Golfer Plymouth Country Club In just two years, the HWZ outing has raised nearly $18,000 for tuition assistance at Catholic High. www.RCHSAlumni.org/HWZ2012
34th Annual Alumni Golf Outing
Cahill Cup Classic
Roman's Premier Golf Outing
Tuesday, May 8th, 2012 Whitemarsh Valley Country Club $500 per Golfer www.RCHSAlumni.org/CahillCup2012
Now in its 12th year, the Cahill Cup gives golf enthusiasts the chance to play on some of the Philadelphia area’s most challenging courses.
Friday, May 4, 2012 $125 per Golfer Middletown Country Club The Alumni Golf Outing has raised over $300,000 for deserving students attending Roman Catholic. Registration and Sponsorship Details Available on www.RCHSAlumni.org/AlumniGolf
Stay Updated on Events and Reunions
www.RCHSAlumni.org
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Roman Catholic High School
ATHLETICS Dennis DiGiovanni '02 Athletic Director River Field. 23rd and The Benjamin Franklin Parkway
T
he parking lot at Keenan’s Valley View Inn was completely filled to capacity on Wednesday, December 14th, 2011 – and rightfully so. Roman Catholic High School’s fall sports seasons proved to be one of the most exciting in recent history. A sold out crowd for the fall sports banquet demonstrated just how proud these young athletes are to wear the purple and gold. Much credit is owed to Athletic Director, Mr. Dennis DiGiovanni ’02, Assistant A.D., Mr. John Pensabene, and Assistant Principal for Student Affairs, Mr. Domenic DiMartino for planning such a successful event. The coaches in attendance had kind words for their students and for each other. RCHS Cross Country Coach Kevin Verbrugghe ’80 recognized his team for their seasonal accolades including treks to 4 invitational matches, going up against some of best teams in the state of Pennsylvania. The highlight was a first place victory for the J.V. team at the Abington Invitational. The freshman team, coached by John Pensabene, defeated LaSalle College High School at the Catholic League Championships for the first time in 13 years. The cross country team finished with a record of 18-7 in the Catholic League, including defeats over traditional powerhouse rivals St. Joe’s Prep and Archbishop Wood and sent three Cahillites to the state championship in Hershey, PA. Junior Varsity MVP was awarded to Pat McCloskey ’14 and the Coach’s Award to Stephen Monaghan ’12. In his speech, Verbrugghe kicked off what became the banquet’s theme by recognizing the best player he’s ever coached. “The things that he has accomplished are in a word, unbeliev-
Fall Sports Recap
proud of them.” Co-Captain Rocco Sgrillo advanced to the PIAA State Tournament and received a Coach’s Award along with the golf team’s “version of Rudy,” Ryan Missimer. Anthony Hoffman, Roman’s second four time All-Catholic in golf, finished the season, among other things, as a runner up in the Philadelphia PGA’s junior player of the year, ranked on the national golf scoreboard, with six match pars at even par or better, and as the PCL regular points champion. He, along with Above: All-Catholic golfers Anthony Sgrillo will be playing collegiate golf next Hoffman ’12 and Rocco Sgrillo ’12 discuss year and is, according to Hoban, the best their last golf season at RCHS. he has ever coached. able,” Verbrugghe said. “He is first team Like golf, the RCHS soccer team All-Catholic, first team All-District 12. He recorded its most successful season of is ranked 56th in the state of Pennsyslvania. the past four years with head Coach Ray He now holds the all-time record at the 3.1 DeStephanis guiding the Cahillites to mile race at Belmont Plateau at 16 minutes, the semi-finals of the PCL playoffs. In a 31 seconds. He is the best I ever coached heartfelt thank you to his boys, DeStephain 13 years. Our MVP this year is Mr. Jim nis said, “Whether you came to us as 9th McShane ’12.” graders four years ago or transitioned into Once the applause settled, Coach a Cahillite two years ago – take pride in Dan Hoban ’92 took the podium to honor knowing it was your efforts that really his golf team. He first expressed his dedica- helped to turn our program around and tion to all Roman sports and said, “I’ve been back into the winning ways.” Across the around Roman football since I could walk… board, Roman soccer was successful. The and I can say that Joe McCourt is the best freshman team, under the guidance of football player these eyes have ever seen.” Matt Meier ’06 and Mike Biddle, earned This past season, RCHS golf finished with the best record in the Catholic League a 15-1 overall record, the highest winning (15-5) with a 13 game win streak in the percentage of any Roman team, and the most Below: Cross Country teammates smile All-Catholics of any Roman team with four: for the camera at the Fall Sports banquet. Rocco Sgrillo ’12, Dan Gentilucci ’13, Anthony Hoffman ’12, and Ryan Missimer’ 12. The team made it to the brink of a Catholic League excellence, losing the championship match by one stroke to St. Joe’s Prep. “I’ve been in a lot of pressure situations in my competitive golf career,” Hoban said. “And nothing, nothing, compares to the pressure that those guys competed under in that playoff. Golf is a game of honor and these guys handled themselves with pure class and dignity and I could not be more
9 The middle of the season. Jarrett Nast ’15 was recognized as the freshman team MVP. The JV team, coached by Glenn Steiner, matured as players and young men, with the MVP going to Shane Steiner’13. Varsity soccer took the Catholic League by storm and although the outcome was not a desired one, the team took on St. Benedict’s Prep of New Jersey, a team featuring a player who had already scored a goal as a member of the Philadelphia Union. The season certainly had more ups and downs and even Father Judge head coach John Dunlop said that he believed the playoff loss was the first time in five years Roman should have won. “Sometimes, the old sports adage is true,” DeStephanis said, “The best team doesn’t always win.” The offensive MVP, with four goals and seven assists, went to Norman “Boomer” Steigelman ’12. The defensive MVP was awarded to Thomas Kostick ’12 who ended the season with five goals and one assist. Although plagued with injuries during four years, senior Captain Mark Casasanto ’12 gave his all every game received the Coach’s Award and was recognized
Empire
his time as head coach saying, “I don’t know how relevant Roman football was before 1997, but ever since he came here, it’s been relevant.” This past season, the Cahillites finished 8-4 and for the first time since 1927, went to back to back championships. The Varsity team generated 8 first team All-Catholics, five second team All-Catholics, and a tremendous amount of record breakers. Michael Keir ’13 broke the single season and single game records for passing yards Above: Marcus Kelly ’12 receives the by a quarterback, William Fuller ’13 Offensive MVP Award for his spectactular broke the city and school record for most feats on the football field yards in a single game, and Christopher by Assistant Coach Jerry Brindisi as one Cruz ’13 set a postseason city record for of the best captains he’s seen in a career five touchdown passes in a single game. spanning 30 years. While the Cahillite defense was made up In the last awards of the night, of “dedicated players and great playmakRoman football Coach Joe McCourt ’01 ers,” Coach McCourt mentioned that spoke to his guys about the pride he had there were no real “stand-outs,” making in them. He also expressed his apprethe Defensive MVP a tough decision. He ciation for Coach Hoban’s kind words gave the award to Kenny English ’12, an when he announced his football team. unsung hero of Roman football McCourt recognized Coach Jim Murphy, back on the coaching staff this season, for (continued on page 15) revamping the football program during
Sports Hall of Fame
2012 Banquet and Inductees
2012 Special Award Recipients John J. Hoban, Sr. ’35 Memorial Award for Meritorious Service
The Sports Hall of Fame committee will host the 22nd Induction Ceremony and Awards Banquet on Friday, April 13, 2012. The Induction Ceremony will commence with a luncheon in The McShain Media Center in Renaissance Hall welcoming our Class of 2012 inductees, family, friends, classmates and teammates beginning at 11:30 AM followed by a student assembly ceremony at 1:00 PM in our fabled Auditorium. That night, the Roman community will gather atWilliamson's Restaurant on Blair Mill Rd. in Horsham, PA. Tickets for the banquet are $35.00 each and can be ordered thru the McSherry '40 Annex by contacting Terri Evans at 215.627.5487 ext. 310 or Alumni@RomanCatholicHScom.
2012 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees
Larry Larthey ’37 Frank Sykes ’72 (Posthumously) Basketball & Baseball Football & Track Joel Rivers ’93 The 1947 Swimming Team Football Ray Dovell ’54 Bill Mower ’94 Basketball Football John Spino ’64 (Posthumously) Joe McCourt ’01 Football & Track Football, Basketball & Baseball Keith Coady ’68 Scott Paxson ’01 Basketball Football, Basketball & Baseball
Tom DeFelice
West Catholic High School * Class of 1964 Retired Head Football Coach * Edward W. Bok High School
Joseph “Goldie” Graham ’33 Memorial Award for Loyalty
Ed Palmer Class of 1951 (Posthumously) Distinguished Alumnus & Trustee
Charter Member of the Sports Hall of Fame Committee
William “Speedy” Morris ’60 Community Sports Award
Tom Shirley
Athletic Director * Philadelphia University Head Women’s Basketball Coach * Philadelphia University
John J. Gillen ’33 Memorial Inter-League Award
Kevin Clancy
Head Football Coach * Strath Haven High School
William B. Markward Memorial Humanitarian Award
Dr. Richard W. Vassallo Class of 1959
Distinguished Alumnus & Trustee Member of the Board of Advisors & Executive Committee Co – Chairman of Annual Giving Campaign
Patrick Ward '66 Memorial Scholar Athlete
Stephen Paul Class of 2012 Captain, RCHS Swim Team
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Roman Catholic High School
CLASS NOTES 1954 Ed Keenan was added to the Brewerytown Fairmount Cathedral & Schuylkill Navy Sports All Timers Association's honor roll at their Fall 2011 luncheon at Cannstatter's restaurant.
1955 Joe Casee and wife Ann recently celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in Las Vegas. Congratulations to the Casees! 1958 Larry Baker is residing in Perry, GA. After a 21 year career in the U.S. Navy, Baker worked for Pepsi and then the U.S. Air Force for 29 years. During his 50 years in the armed forces, he was on duty in weather services. Since his official retirement, he is known to tune into the Weather Channel frequently and play the “forecasting game” with friends and neighbors. Baker takes great pride in telling people that he graduated from Roman and telling them its history. He gets more than a few questions when he wears his Roman hat and t-shirt. “People really get surprised at the name since it matches the name of our faith.” Joe Beisel is enjoying the snow in the mountains of western Pennsylvania. Bill Ebner portrayed Santa Claus at the Oxford Valley Mall for the seventh consecutive year. He also brought joy to a local family who won a national contest for $2,000 by delivering their prize. This was particularly heartwarming considering the father of the family has been out of work for over a year. Tony Peguese is currently residing in sunny southwest Florida. His youngest son and his wife brought a beautiful little girl into the world this past winter. Tony’s wife’s oldest son and his wife are expecting a boy in February. Both sons got married two weeks apart in October of last year and are expecting children just weeks apart. Roman Shwed spent Christmas in the Ukraine for the 18th year. He reports that the city of Kyiv has changed dramatically in the past 18 years, especially in the arts and the restaurant industry. Shwed is retired but still busy at Rotary International. Should you be in Kyiv at 19:00 on a Monday night, stop in his local hangout, Kupidon, to see him.
Above: Ed Keenan ’54 deservedly being added to the the Schuylkill Navy Sports All Timers honor roll. Mike Zeminski is presently living in Downingtown, PA. Mike spent three years in the United States Army immediately following graduation where he was stationed for two and a half years in Germany. His return home brought him a career managing supermarkets in the tri-state area. Mike’s first wife passed away at a very young age. He is remarried and his second wife is from Germany (he did not meet her while stationed there). He has two children, a son who works at Comcast in the IT department and a daughter who is a stay at home mom. Between he and his wife, Mike has nine grandchildren. After retiring, Mike enjoys cooking, exercising, traveling, and spending time with his 90-year-old mother who is also in good health. He is looking forward to seeing all his friends from Cathedral in a few years at the Class of ’58’s 55th Reunion. 1960 Seamus Kearney was added to the Brewerytown Fairmount Cathedral & Schuylkill Navy Sports All Timers Association's honor roll at their Fall 2011 luncheon at Cannstatter's restaurant. 1963 Nick Zityniuk retired from AAA Midatlantic Insurance Company after 25 years as an insurance agent. 1981 Jimmy Parrella was elected in September to be the new President of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, Summit Chapter. 2005 Vince Mundy is a member of the Whitemarsh Township Police Force. In September 2011 he wed Caitlin Hanrahan of Delaware County & Springfield HS. Congratulations to Vince and Caitlin.
2007 Mike Cute graduated from Marietta College in May 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Media. While at Marietta, Mike was a four-year member of the Marietta College men's rowing team. He was a 2011 Knecht Cup and 2011 SIRA Varsity Lightweight 8+ champion, a 2010 JV Heavyweight 8+ Dad Vail Silver Medalist, and a three-time Royal Canadian Henley Regatta finalist. In August 2011 he was appointed the Assistant Men’s Crew Coach at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York. 2009 Kasseim Everett will be playing his next football season as a cornerback at Oklahoma University. Last season, Everett was named first-team All-Southern California Football Association while playing for Pierce College in Los Angeles. Everett will be one of six newcomers to the OU roster next season. 2010 Dennis B. Flanagan, Jr. is in the U.S. Army, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.
Above: Seamus Kearney ’60 speaking to his fellow members of the Brewerytown
Fairmount Cathedral & Schuylkill Navy Sports All Timers Association's
Do You Have Class Notes and Pictures? Share them with the Roman Family! Please send all Class Notes to Steven Ziegler '04 sziegler@RomanCatholicHS.com or by mail to Roman Catholic High School. 301 N. Broad Street. Philadelphia, PA 19107 Walk the Halls of Catholic High Again! Schedule Your Next Reunion or a Visit to Roman Contact Ann Vassallo, Director of Development 215.627.5487 ext. 311 or avassallo@RomanCatholicHS.com
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Roman on the Radio
The Empire
History in Pictures
During Catholic Schools Week, Catholic High was featured on 95.7 BenFM with a one minute radio spot. The narrator of the commercial, Norristown native Matt Durkin ’12 has strong ties to Roman as his father, Bob Durkin has been instructing the Cahillites in English for 47 years. Matt, also a member of the RCHS TV Studio, is hoping to continue his broadcasting career after graduation by attending Temple University or the Connecticut School of Broadcasting. Pictured Above: The Knickerbocker Coal & Ice Company, located Listen to Roman’s radio spot by at 24th and Pine Streets. This photo is dated from 1899, long after our founder's passing. visiting www.RCHSAlumni.org
In Retrospect
by: Steve Johnston ’12
On August 9, 1878 the world lost a great man, and gained so much more at the same time. On this day the last will and testament of Thomas E. Cahill and the Charter of Roman Catholic High School went into effect. This was the flash point from which everything else came. The will detailed what would happen to the millions within the Cahill estate. At the time, a quarter of a million of his estate was all it took to establish and build the Roman Catholic High School of Philadelphia. Worth over 5 million in current value, the type of generosity of Cahill was rarely seen during the 18th Century. According to Cahill’s will, the first course of action was for a corporation to be formed, a corporation of Trustees and executors, who would carry out the plan Cahill had dreamed of before his death. This corporation was to be called “The Trustees of the Roman Catholic High School of Philadelphia.” This incorporation was made up of individuals of Cahill’s choosing as well as anyone the trustees saw fit to add. These designated individuals are: The Roman Catholic Bishop of Philadelphia, then Archbishop Wood, the Pastor of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church (on Locust Street), Right Rev. Bishop William O’Hara of Scranton, Dr. Walter F. Atlee, John G. Repplier, and James J. Gillin. These individuals were charged with forming the “Charter of the Trustees of the Roman Catholic High School of Philadelphia,” approved by the Legislature of Pennsylvania on August 29th, 1874. The executors had a 2 year span after the death of Cahill to create the Charter or else the funds would revert back to the estate and be used to start a different State Charter, “The Trustees of the Cahill Poor Fund, of the City of Philadelphia.” There were a number of provisions included in the will that would dictate how the school would form. The successful Charter of the Trustees or the Board of Managers was the first step in the process. The subsequent step was to buy a plot of land in the City of Philadelphia, which was completed with the Broad and Vine Street property. After paying for the grounds, the trustees were to use up to, but not exceeding, half of the remaining estate to be used for the maintenance, support, and benefit of the school. This would be a free school for boys over the age of eleven, which would provide “such educational courses and studies other than those purely ecclesiastical in their nature as will best qualify such boys for the ordinary pursuits of life.” Preference was to be given to graduates of the Parochial School system within the City of Philadelphia, just as the Trustees were to be limited to Roman Catholics of good moral standing. If those applicants would not fulfill the available spots in the school, then students could be recruited from the rest of the Commonwealth. If it is the case that there are more applicants than spaces available—as is the case currently—then it is left to the Trustees to decide who will be admitted. The will of Thomas E. Cahill remains honored by anyone involved with Roman Catholic High School. It is so ingrained in the psyche of Catholic High graduates that any other way of doing things would seem absurd. Thomas E. Cahill was a man ahead of his time in many respects. The simple fact that we are still using his admissions process 122 years since the school’s establishment indicates a tried and true recipe for success.
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Roman Catholic High School
AROUND
'Twas the Season...For Service
Above: Devin Braddock '13 organizes bags of clothing and Christmas gifts for the underprivileged at Cradles to Crayons in Conshohocken, PA
Five Cahillites Awarded Hocker Scholarships For the second year, the Ethel Mae Hocker Foundation has awarded scholarships to Roman students. Last year, Albert Agar ’11 and Nick Presel ’12 had the highest GPA in the program, winning the first annual “Hocker Cup” which brought a $3,000 technology grant to Roman along with bragging rights. Because of last year’s success, four additional scholarships were awarded this year. These scholarships, in the amount of $5,000 each, are given to students who demonstrate academic excellence and community leadership. This year’s recipients are Nick Presel ’12, Alexander Roman ’12, Kevin Leylan ’13, Patrick Prendergast ’13, and Matthew Dever ’14. We are hopeful that these young men will bring the Hocker Cup to Catholic High again.
Community service is a major part of student life at Roman Catholic. Throughout the fall and winter, the Cahillites ran our annual Thanksgiving food drive, traveled to Cradles to Crayons in Conshohocken, put in 255 hours at Operation Santa Claus, organized a game night at the Ronald McDonald House, and put together sleeping bags for the homeless on Martin Luther King Day of Service.
Above: Roman students pose with their sleeping bags for the homeless after a successful MLK Day. Below: Students fill boxes with toys at Operation Santa Claus
Mock Trial Competes in Pittsburgh
The Roman Catholic mock trial team recently competed in two invitational tournaments at the University of Pittsburgh and La Salle University. Comprised of more than forty students, the team is the largest of its kind in Pennsylvania. The RCHS team also remains one of the most competitive, having finished with impressive records at both events. With a 7-1 record at the University of Pittsburgh, the program’s varsity team finished in 5th place out of 50 teams. The following weekend, the team once again placed 5th, losing only one ballot in a competitive field of 30 teams at La Salle University.
This month, the team will compete in the regional competition season in trials held at Temple Law School and the Philadelphia Criminal Justice Center. Led by seniors Justin Wolfing- Above: The RCHS Mock Trial Team in ton, Eric Von Hoffen, Ray Wilson and Pittsburgh, PA. Mock Trial has become one Steve Paul, the team hopes to bring of the most popular and successful extra- the city championship title back to curricular activities in recent years. Broad and Vine.
ROMAN
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Roman Catholic High School
NHS Gets Advice from Alum
The National Honor Society induction ceremony is always a special time for the young men at Catholic High. While reveling in their own academic achievements, current students get to hear words of wisdom from an alum. This year’s guest speaker was Matt Kulpa, CPA’02. Kulpa, a graduate of LaSalle University who has worked at PricewaterhouseCoopers and now Main Street Investment Advisors, explained to the young men listening to him that making connections at Roman is important to their futures as they get out into the world and network. He emphasized the “common bond” that Cahillites share and recognized their efforts in achieving such a prestigious goal in their high school careers. Kulpa realistically explained to them that there are hurdles in life that they will not always get over the first time around. However, he explained that it is important to “dust yourself off, identify what tripped you, and move on.”
Above: Matt Kulpa, CPA ’02 addresses the National Honor Society at their induction ceremony. Below: NHS Officers join in singing the "Purple & Gold."
Fine Arts Thrive at Broad and Vine
Positioned on the Avenue of the Arts, Roman continues to provide a variable playground for students with interests in theater, art, and music. During the first semester, under the direction of Fine Arts Chair Lance Moore, the Cahillites gave stellar performances at the annual Christmas Concert and in their production of Les Miserables. As the population of Center City continues to bloom, Roman’s Fine Arts Department reinforces one of the many positive aspects of Catholic education in Philadelphia.
Above: The Roman Band and Chorus perform rousing renditions of Christmas favorites during the annual Christmas Concert. Right: Roman students transport the audience back to the French Revolution in their outstanding performance of Les Miserables.
Romauction 2012 Carnevale in Venice Saturday March 3rd Cocktail Reception & Silent/Live Auctions 6:00 P.M. - 11:00 P.M. Sophia Cahill Award Recipient Bill Boyle ’87
The city of Venice has many names: La Dominante, Queen of the Adriatic, City of Water, City of Marks, the Floating City, City of Canals and City of Bridges. On Saturday, March 3, 2012, Romauction 2012: Carnevale in Venice will take place in Roman’s storied gym. On this night, the most romantic city in the world will be atop the third floor of the most historical high school in Philadelphia. Over the past 22 years, Romauction has remained Catholic High’s premiere fundraiser for extracurricular activities and athletics.
Honorary Chair Jim Fitzsimmons ’67
Join Us For Romauction
Order Yout Tickets or Sponosor the Evening Visit www.RCHSAlumni.org/Romauction
Every year dedicated parents, faculty, and staff work together to organize an upscale cocktail reception worthy of any Center City venue. It is on this evening that attendees enjoy bidding on vacations to Cancun, weekend getaways at local resorts, tickets to the Phillies, quaint dinners at some of Philadelphia’s best restaurants, and much more for any price range!
The Sofia Cahill Award will also be presented on this night. This year's recipient, Bill Boyle '87, Take a Chance to Win is a dedicated member of the RCHS Advisory Board and the Board of Trustees. It was Sofia who honored Thomas E. Cahill's wish to establish Roman Catholic High School. Like Sofia, the recipient of this award remains true to $100 chances available. Contact Romauction@RomanCatholicHS.com the will of Thomas E. Cahill in keeping Roman a success.
$10,000
Congratulations Judge Hughes
Judge Renée Cardwell Hughes, CEO of the Red Cross of Southeastern PA, member of Roman Catholic High School’s Board of Advisors, and mother of Alec Hughes ’09 received the highly prestigious Drum Major Award for Community Empowerment from the Philadelphia Martin Luther King, Jr. Association for Nonviolence on January 16th, 2012. Hughes took over as Chief Executive Officer in May of 2011, after spending more than 15 years as a judge on Philadelphia’s highest court. As a judge, Hughes oversaw some very high profile cases, earning a reputation as being tough, but fair and garnering the respect of law enforcement and defendants alike. The Philadelphia Martin Luther King, Jr. Association for Nonviolence Drum Major Awards honor individuals whose lives have been exemplary and who have made outstanding contributions to their community and society in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King’s teachings and philosophy of love and nonviolence.
Fall Sports Recap
(continued from page 9) who was always willing to help out at spring practices and assist the offense as part of the scout team. The Special Teams MVP was awarded to Shane Wiggins ’12 who plays “one of the most undervalued positions in football,” the long-snapper. The Cahillites didn’t have a bad snap or one blocked punt all season thanks to Wiggins. Roberto Harris-Barron ’12, a 2nd Team All-Catholic at nose tackle was presented with the Coach’s Award for his dedication to Roman football in every aspect from the weight room to the playing field. Finally, keeping with the theme of the evening, Coach McCourt presented Marcus Kelly ’12, the best he’s ever coached, with the Offensive MVP Award. Kelly ran for the second most yards in a single game in Roman history, put up 1,800 yards this season, was the runner-up for Catholic League MVP, scored 19 touchdowns, and was a two time first team All-Catholic. “If I could start as a freshman in college, this kid will definitely start as a freshman,” McCourt said. “I’ve coached a lot of great running backs and when it comes to running ability, pass catching, and pass protection, Marcus Kelly is the best I’ve ever coached.” Although the fall season did not fill the trophy cases at Broad and Vine, it did fill the student body with excitement. The stars certainly shined this season and will undoubtedly continue to do so in their Roman careers and beyond.
15 The
Empire
What's Happening 2/25/12 Group Reunion Class of 1971, 1976, 1991, 1996, 2006 RCHS Cafeteria 7-10 pm www.RCHSAlumni.org/Feb25Reunion
8/5/12 Day At the Bay Keenan’s Irish Pub, N. Wildwood, NJ, 2:00-7:00 pm www.RCHSalumni.org/DayattheBay2012
3/3/12 Romauction – Silent/Live Auction, Dinner RCHS Cafeteria and Gymnasium, 5 – 11 pm www.RCHSalumni.org/Romauction 3/6/12 through 5/8/12 Come and Speak Italian with Us 7:00-8:30 pm for 10 weeks Cost - $125 Contact jfarinella@RomanCatholicHS.com to register 3/14/12 EITC Breakfast Union League, 8 am Please see page 17 4/13/12 Sports Hall of Fame–Induction Ceremony & Dinner School Ceremony, RCHS, 11:30 am Dinner and Induction Williamson’s, 6:00 pm www.RCHSalumni.org/SHOF 4/16/12 Henry W. Zakrzewski Golf Outing Plymouth Country Club, Plymouth Meeting Shotgun Start 12:00pm www.RCHSAlumni.org/HWZgolf 5/4/12 Alumni Golf Outing Middletown Country Club, Langhorne, Shotgun Start 8:00 am www.RCHSalumni.org/AlumniGolf 5/8/12 Cahill Cup Classic Whitemarsh Valley Country Club Shotgun Start 12:00 pm www.RCHSalumni.org/CahillCup2012 5/21/12 Night at the Phillies and McFadden's Phillies vs Nationals (section 426-428) Reception at McFadden's 5-7 pm Gametime 7:05 pm www.RCHSAlumni.org/Phillies 5/23/12 Founder’s Day Award Ceremony Keenan’s, Roxborough, 6 pm www.RCHSalumni.org/CahillAwardDinner
To register for an event or for more info, email 6/25/12 alumni@RomanCatholicHS.com or John Hoban ’59 Golf Outing Call 215.627.5487 ext 311
Centre Square Golf Course, 8:30 am Shotgun Start
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Roman Catholic High School
Standing Tall in Trying Times O
n January 6th, 2012 the phone calls began again in the Admissions Office at Catholic High. The Blue Ribbon Commission, a panel formed within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to study Catholic education, recommended the closure of four Catholic high schools and announced the closures/consolidations of 45 elementary schools. The high schools affected were West Catholic, Conwell-Egan, Saint Hubert’s, and Bonner-Prendie. As the phone rang and I explained to parent after parent how the admissions process works for transfer students, I felt the pain of these people, yet I smiled for some reason. I smiled not because they were Above: Students on the steps of losing their school, but rather because Catholic High in 1987 they were choosing Roman Catholic as a potential new school. I also smiled because I knew that our success would actually hinder ...It is time to expand us from accepting an overabundance of new students. This may sound like a terrible our programs and create thing, but it means that we are doing many an intimate, collegiate things right at Roman Catholic. environment for When North Catholic and Cardinal Dougherty closed in 2010, our young men. the Roman Catholic family rose to the occasion, accepting 115 new Cahillites
by: Steven Ziegler ’04
into our hallowed halls. I was, and forever will be, proud to have been a part of that undertaking. However, this January’s announcement brought a different feeling to the admissions office. As a graduate, I am ecstatic that in these trying times, my alma mater has basked in the glory of a consistently increasing enrollment. Still, I know that the goal of a school is not to register more students than the others. As we look to the future and an expansion down the Vine Street corridor, it is time to expand our programs and create an intimate, collegiate environment for our young men. We have set the trend of managing the sensitive topic of school closures and we look to our younger brothers and sisters at Cardinal O’Hara, Archbishop Wood, Neumann-Goretti, and Pope John Paul to pick up the torch. Catholic education works when those working within the system do so together. Roman is not perfect – no school ever will be, regardless of the tuition, neighborhood, or technology. Education is a learning process. What makes a school great is a community of alumni, teachers, students, and families that come together in support of a school. To say we’re great would of course be boastful, but we do have all of these things.
Stay Connected to Roman Facebook ~ Roman Catholic High School Alumni Association Twitter ~ @RomanCatholicHS YouTube~RomanCatholicHS www.RomanCatholicHS.com ~ www.RCHSAlumni.org
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Roman Catholic High School
Advancing the Future of RCHS I
magine a high school that is not struggling to survive, where stress is not placed on the Catholic school system, where there is a clear plan for success and continued growth – not for recovery. Roman is just that place - where enrollment is above capacity, where applications for incoming freshman are almost double the acceptance rate, where Catholic values are not only taught, but lived through definable moments in the service of humankind. Roman Catholic is a beacon of secondary education in the Philadelphia region - rich in history and tradition. Cahillites form a fraternal bond which lasts through the generations. Providing an education recognized as second to none and sustaining Thomas E. Cahill's vision of a Catholic education are of paramount importance to Roman Catholic High School and to the advancement of its mission and the achievement of its strategic goals. Those who do not reflect on history do not learn from it. I think of the
by: Denise LePera
great alumni who led us through the struggle of the 1980s, The Hon. Nicholas M. D'Alessandro ’52, George Forde ’26, Bob Evans ’49, Jim McSherry ’40 to name only a few who stood strong and fought for this great school to move successfully into the 21st century. I am grateful to think of the great leaders of the not-so-distant past and of today – Dick Trotter ’49, Dan DiLella ’69, Tom Leonard ’64, Larry Elliott ’66, former President/Rectors Msgr. Francis Beach ’67, Fr. Paul Brandt ’06 and Fr. Joseph Bongard ’77. Congratulations to all of the Cahillites young and old who make these hallowed halls at Broad and Vine a place of excitement and growth. Your support of Annual Giving which enables Roman to provide up to $225,000 in academic scholarships each year, your commitment to our students with financial need through the Adopt-a-Student program and EITC (see below), your undying love for all things Roman undoubtedly ensures that Roman will most likely stand proud well into the 22nd century.
Why Pay PA Taxes When You Can Support Scholarships?
For Virtually NOTHING!
Find out how on March 14 at the Union League The EITC (Educational Improvement Tax Credit) has accomplished what many in Pennsylvania have been advocating for years: more involvement from the business community in education. The EITC enables companies to support local non-profit charities, at minimal cost, instead of sending their tax dollars to Harrisburg. It's that simple. Your business may benefit, or you may know someone whose business would. For complete information, you can visit The Reach Foundation website at http://www.paschoolchoice.org/
One or more of the following taxes are eligible to participate in the EITC Program and designate those dollars for scholarships: Corporate Net Income Tax Capital Stock Franchise Tax Bank and Trust Company Shares Tax Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax Insurance Premiums Tax Mutual Thrift Institution Tax
To Learn More About EITC, Join Us at The Union League of Philadelphia Wednesday, March 14th at 8 AM Contact Ann Vassallo, Director of Development to confirm attendance. 215.627.5487 ext. 311 or avassallo@RomanCatholicHS.com
Un Grand' Insegnante ~ A Great Teacher
Name: Joseph M. Farinella~Place of Birth: Roggiano Gravina, Italy Education: B.A. from La Salle University~Title: World Language Department Chair Hobbies: Gardening, Woodworking, Carpentry, etc.~Years Teaching: 15 1.)Who or what inspired you to become a teacher? I don't think there was anything or anyone in particular who had an impact on my wanting to become a teacher. I just knew that someday, when the timing was right for me, I would become one. I remember saying always that I wanted to spend the last productive years of my life as a teacher. I thank God for having given me the opportunity of making my dream a reality. I just love being in the classroom. 2.)What do you find to be the most rewarding aspect of your profession? There are so many things about the teaching profession that I enjoy a great deal. Having been raised in Italy, in a culture where teaching was, and is, a well respected profession, being part of it gives me great pride. No other profession allows you to witness the metamorphosis that takes place in a young person from the time he /she enters High School as a scared, immature, and sometimes rebellious freshman, only to see the same person, a few short years later, leave the same school a mature young person ready to take on the world. Knowing that you might have contributed to this transformation is priceless. 3.) Even after leaving Roman Catholic to teach at Conwell Egan, you came back to every Roman graduation and remained close with the faculty. This is not the norm for most teachers. What kept you connected? Leaving Roman was an extremely difficult decision for me to make. I liked the idea of the short commute to the new school, but I hated leaving what I considered home. I had great respect and admiration for the individuals whom I had come to know, and considered friends. The feeling of belonging, being appreciated and accepted by my peers kept me connected. 4.)Explain the feelings that you had when you returned to Roman this year. This is an easy one to answer. It felt like coming back home. I am extremely thankful to those individuals who made it possible. 5.)When teaching students a new language, you can see their progression. Has there ever been a time when a student really surprised you with how much he had learned.? I consider progress when I notice a student is relaxed and attempts to ask a question or express an opinion in the target language, even if with errors, or using fragmented sentences. Having personally gone through the process of learning a new language, in my case English, I can appreciate the apprehension, and the fear a student experiences when attempting to speak another language. 6.) You changed the landscape, literally, of the Italian department at Roman when you added the aqueducts and artwork to Room 52. When did you complete that project and how do you think it has impacted the students’ learning? The art work such as the aqueduct, the "Ponte di Rialto" in Venice, and the three dimensional map of Italy in room 52 were created by some very dedicated students enrolled in the Italian classes, who, after school, worked diligently and with enthusiasm until the projects were "completed". These projects, with their working features, took three or four years to complete. The idea behind these was to have the students "feel" the vocabulary, geography, culture, and history of Italy. 7.) What do you have in store for the future of the World Language Department at Roman? As far as art work is concerned, you have to wait and see. With regard to the academic aspect of the World Language Department, we are committed to offer the highest level of instruction to make sure that students learn how to communicate in the target language in real life situations, and prepare them to compete on the world scene.
Fostering Faith
One Gift Made History What Will Your Gift Do?
The young men of the Delaware Valley are able to attend Roman Catholic High School because of your commitment. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do through your Annual Giving gift. Your generosity assists in providing an education that is second to none. Make your gift today by visiting www.RCHSAlumni.org
Expanding Knowledge
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