tepnews i nac 2024
The Newly ReNovaTed TuRf field aT aRchbishop sTepiNac high school
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Reverend Thomas Collins ’79
President
Mr. Paul Carty
Principal
Mr. Frank Portanova ’93
Vice Principal for Academics
Mr. Patrick Massaroni ’06
Vice President Advancement
Mr. Joseph Cupertino ’04
Dean of Students
Mr. Keith Sunderland ’94
Director of Admissions
OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT
Mr. Dennis Buckley ’82
Mr. Patrick Massaroni ’06
Br. Fred Sambor, fms
Mr. Paul Thomas ’80
Mr. Anthony Tornatore ’16
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Mr. Kevin Keane ’74
Chairman
Mr. James Scully ’80
Secretary
TRUSTEES
Dr. Noelle Beale
Mr. John Cahill ’77
Mr. Christopher Daly ’89
Mr. Richard Del Bello ’67
Mr. Alex Marasco ’70
Sr. Anne Massell, PBVM
Mr. Thomas Ulrich ’82
Stepinac Welcomes Largest Incoming Class in Over 30 Years
Archbishop Stepinac High School is thrilled to welcome its largest freshman class in over 30 years! With 245 students, the Class of 2028 is made up of scholars from Westchester County, Rockland County, New York City, and three other states.
This record-breaking class also includes the largest freshman honors cohort and has already begun participating in various clubs and athletic programs. Over the next four years, we anticipate many great achievements from these students, both academically and beyond.With a strong Stepinac foundation, they are poised to attend top colleges and universities and pursue successful careers, all while embodying the school’s mission.
Stepinac’s Sixth 24 Hours of Giving: A Resounding Success
Stepinac’s Sixth 24 Hours of Giving surpassed expectations, raising over $225,000 in just 24 hours from more than 700 donors. This impressive achievement highlighted our community’s exceptional generosity and commitment to making a substantial impact on our students, faculty, and staff.
2024 Class Participation Percentage Leaders
#1 :: 1989 - 36.36%
#2 :: 1982 - 19.37%
#3 :: 1979 - 17.65%
#4 :: 1977 - 16.28%
#5 :: 1991 - 12.66%
Join us for our Seventh 24 Hours of Giving on February 6-7, 2025. We eagerly anticipate the participation and support of the entire Stepinac community in this upcoming event.
IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN A CHALLENGE OR MATCHING GIFT FOR GIVING DAY, PLEASE CONTACT THE ADVANCEMENT OFFICE AT 914-496-4800, EXT. 292.
Kevin Keane ’74 Chairman, Board of Trustees
Dear Stepinac Family & Friends
It is with immense pride and admiration that I reflect on the achievements of our school over the past year. From academic excellence to outstanding performing arts and athletic achievements, our students continue to exemplify the core values of Stepinac High School—integrity, perseverance, and commitment to excellence.
Your continued support ensures that we can continue to provide a world-class education and enriching experiences that prepare our students for future success.
The 2023-2024 academic year has been marked by significant milestones and achievements, made possible in part by the generous support of our alumni, parents, and benefactors. Members of the Class of 2024 were accepted into some of the most prestigious colleges and universities nationwide. Our athletic teams did excel as championship contenders on the court, field, and diamond. We successfully hosted our Inaugural Spring Celebration: Grounded & Growing, where we honored three essential members of the Stepinac community. Our drama club captivated audiences with two exceptional performances of “Clue” and “Catch Me If You Can. Lastly, we are very proud to say that this year’s incoming freshman class of over 240 students is the largest we’ve seen in over 30 years. It has truly been a spectacular year!
As we look ahead, raising funds for the school remains a priority. Your continued support ensures that we can continue to provide a world-class education and enriching experiences that prepare our students for future success. Together, let us strive to secure the resources needed to sustain and strengthen Stepinac’s mission for generations to come.
I encourage all members of our community to stay engaged and involved in the life of our school. Your participation is essential to our continued growth and success.
As always, we are grateful to our alumni, students, parents, benefactors, staff, and faculty for their continued support and for all they do for Stepinac.
KEVIN KEANE ’74 Chairman, Board of Trustees
Dear Stepinac Family & Friends
But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
Luke 14:13-14
We believe in nurturing not only
academic excellence but also a spirit of generosity and compassion.
In the referenced Sacred Scripture passage, Jesus speaks to the Pharisees, stressing the importance of demonstrating generosity and compassion towards others. He underscores the promise of spiritual blessings and rewards that surpass mere material repayment. Could Luke the Apostle have foreseen the relevance of these words to someone supporting a Catholic High School in White Plains over 2,000 years later? I believe so.
At Stepinac High School, we prioritize both academic excellence and fostering a spirit of generosity and compassion. This past year, our students donated over 20,000 non-perishable items to local food pantries and participated in a sleep-out, raising funds and awareness for homelessness in Westchester and New York City. These efforts reflect the core values of our mission to develop young men who will make positive contributions to society beyond Stepinac.
I want to commend Stepinac’s theatre and stage crew for their outstanding performances of “Clue” and “Catch Me If You Can” – both were exceptional! I also congratulate our Lacrosse program for achieving Stepinac’s first-ever CHSAA “AA” state championship while our Basketball program went back-to-back as City and State Champions. Their journeys to victory will forever be a significant part of Stepinac’s history. Lastly, heartfelt congratulations to the graduating Class of 2024, who are set to attend some of the nation’s top colleges and universities. I am incredibly proud of every one of you!
As we celebrate these achievements, I urge each member of our community to reflect on the importance of demonstrating generosity and compassion in all aspects of life. By supporting one another and giving back to Stepinac High School, we ensure that future generations of students can benefit from the same transformative experiences that have shaped us.
REVEREND THOMAS COLLINS ’79 President
Stepinac High School Honors Academy Students Present Proposed Assistive Technology Innovation at Sixth Annual Symposium
Stepinac High School’s Susan and Daniel P. Mahoney ‘67 Honors Academy students recently presented their proposed Assistive Technology (AT) innovation at the school’s Sixth Annual Symposium. The innovation— a joystick designed to improve the quality of life for a medically fragile 10-year-old patient—resulted from a collaborative effort with Blythedale Children’s Hospital.
The partnership with Blythedale Children’s Hospital began over six months ago, aiming to address the specific needs of John (name changed for privacy), who suffers from congenital myopathy. The students, across various disciplines, worked with Blythedale’s experts to create a prototype joystick tailored to enhance John’s daily activities, including playing video games. This initiative not only aims to boost John’s independence and motivation but also highlights the financial challenges and importance of AT in healthcare.
At the Symposium, attended by experts and community members, the students presented their findings and the adapted joystick to the Blythedale team, receiving praise for their innovative approach and dedication. The event marked a significant collaboration between the Academy and Blythedale, demonstrating their commitment to advancing assistive technologies for pediatric patients.
The students of the Susan and Daniel P. Mahoney ‘67 Honors Academy presented the final adapted joystick to the Blythedale panelists for John’s continued use and enjoyment. Subsequently, Patricia Murphy, Academy Coordinator, conveyed heartfelt feedback from John’s family, expressing gratitude for the students’ efforts and the positive impact on his life.
I saw this as an opportunity to make a real difference in some child’s life, provide some real change, help him play video games at home, which is something he previously wasn’t able to do.
JAMES LYONS ’25, YONKERS, NY
Fr. Thomas Collins ’79 President
GRADUATION CLASS OF 2024
The honored students delivered their addresses at Stepinac High School’s 74th Commencement Exercises on May 23, 2024. Owen Dowicz, from White Plains, achieved Valedictorian honors and will attend Georgetown University to study Business & Finance. Giancarlo Lagana, from Port Chester, earned Salutatorian honors and will also pursue Business & Finance at Boston College. Congratulations to all the graduates of the Class of 2024!
Giancarlo Lagana SALUTATORIAN >>
VALEDICTORIAN >> Owen Dowicz
Students, families, and friends pictured celebrating the Archbishop Stepinac High School Class of 2024 on May 23rd, 2024.
Stepinac’s Inaugural Spring
Celebration:
Grounded
& Growing, Honors Three Significant Benefactors
Stepinac High School celebrated over 75 years of growth and innovation with its inaugural Spring Celebration, themed “Grounded and Growing,” held at the Westchester Country Club on May 3rd, 2024. More than 300 guests, including parents, alumni, students, administrators, faculty, staff, and supporters of the esteemed all-boys Catholic high school, gathered for this festive fundraising event.
The ceremony honored three significant benefactors whose contributions have greatly supported Stepinac’s development: Patricia Murphy, a dedicated faculty member for over 25 years and Stepinac’s Director of Instructional Technology; Carla Nolletti P’18, an alumni mother and Manager & Landscape Designer at Gedney Farms Nursery, and Daniel McLaughlin ’75, an esteemed alumnus and President & CEO of Benfield Electric Supply Co. Inc., led the guests in prayer, expressing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon Stepinac and acknowledging the honorees whose generosity has helped shape young men for success in college, careers, and life.
A highlight of the event was the participation of four exemplary Stepinac students who highlighted the school’s pioneering advancements and programs that enrich their education. They had the honor of introducing the esteemed honorees.
Frank Portanova ’93, Vice Principal of Academics and Curriculum and the evening’s emcee, emphasized the collective effort needed to sustain Stepinac’s success and encouraged attendees to share the school’s achievements and aspirations. He articulated, “Our charge to you tonight is to go out and spread the good news of Stepinac. Let’s keep the buzz going and growing. With your help, we will realize our ever-growing list of advanced technologies and improvements. But, as always, let’s remain grounded
President Rev. Thomas Collins ’79 with the Spring Celebration honorees: Daniel McLaughlin ’75, Carla Nolletti Petrillo P’18, and Patricia Murphy.
athletics
Lacrosse Basketball Bowling Track & Field
The Varsity Lacrosse team had an exceptional season, surpassing expectations despite a regular season record of 7-10, impacted by several injuries. Demonstrating resilience and determination, they secured a spot in the CHSAA “AA” City Championship game for the third consecutive year and triumphed in a thrilling 14-9 victory against Iona Prep, solidifying their reputation as a dominant force in the league.
Empowered by this success, Stepinac entered the state playoffs with confidence. They dominated the semifinal against Buffalo champion St. Joseph Collegiate, securing an impressive 18-6 victory. In the championship game against Kellenberg, they continued their winning streak, triumphing with a score of 13-10. This historic win marked Stepinac’s first-ever “AA” lacrosse state championship title in program history, capping off an unforgettable season. Following this victory, head coach James Goldmann ’04 announced his resignation. Goldmann’s remarkable 14-year tenure culminated in this state championship win, solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in Stepinac’s history.
Stepinac High School’s varsity and junior varsity bowling teams had exceptional seasons, dominating their competition from start to finish. Both teams boasted undefeated records in the regular season, securing top seeds in their leagues and carrying that momentum into the CHSAA Bronx/Manhattan League Championships, where they both emerged victorious.
As the season progressed to the CHSAA City Playoffs, the junior varsity team continued to shine, propelled by Maxx Minichino’s ’27 outstanding performance. Minichino led all JV bowlers with an impressive 185 average, guiding his team to a strong second-place finish in the city playoffs.
Meanwhile, on the varsity side, Paul LaBlanc’s ’24 steady scoring with a 174 average ensured a competitive showing in the playoffs, underscoring Stepinac’s depth and talent.
After an impressive regular season record of 21-3, including a perfect 15-0 in league play, the Varsity Basketball team faced a tough challenge in the CHSAA “AA” Archdiocesan Championship game against St. Raymond, resulting in a loss. However, this setback didn’t deter them as they entered the New York City Intersectional Playoffs with determination.
Victories against Christ the King and St. Francis Prep propelled them back into contention for the CHSAA “AA” City Championship. In a thrilling match against Nazareth, they emerged triumphant with a score of 66-51, clinching the school’s third “AA” City Championship since 2018.
Boogie Fland ’24, who will attend the University of Arkansas, was named CHSAA “AA” MVP by league coaches. Braylan Ritvo ’24, bound for Quinnipiac University, earned All-CHSAA “AA” First Team honors, while Danny Carbuccia ’25 was selected to the All-CHSAA “AA” Third Team. Head Coach Patrick Massaroni ’06 was named CHSAA Coach of the Year.
The Stepinac Track and Field team excelled in the 2023-24 season, guided by Davey Davitt ’24, is currently attending the University of Pennsylvania. Davitt, named Westchester/ Putnam Boys Indoor Track and Field Athlete of the Year, had a remarkable season. He clinched first place in the CHSAA Intersectional Championships 400 Meter Hurdles, setting a new CHSAA record.
The team achieved third place overall among 24 competing CHSAA schools at the championships. Head Coach Nick Mitchell announced his retirement at season’s end. We extend our gratitude to Coach Mitchell for his illustrious career at Stepinac High School.
around campus
Stepinac Seniors Participate in Innovative Senior Internship Program
Stepinac High School’s Senior Internship Program, the culmination of the innovative three-year Joyce and Frank Colangelo Entrepreneurship Program, continues to earn high praise from participating students, supervisors, and mentors alike. This year, 40 seniors fulfilled the curriculum requirements of the Colangelo Program, a pioneering initiative launched by Stepinac in the fall of 2020. This program, which has grown by over 30% from its first to second year, focuses on real-world learning and is considered unique among high schools in the region.
Over three weeks, instead of following a regular class schedule, students undertook final projects alongside 60 hours of internships. They were mentored by senior executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals from diverse sectors, including local businesses owned by Stepinac alumni.
Frank Portanova ’93, Vice Principal of Academics and Curriculum, highlighted the seniors’ acquisition of “meaningful work experiences and essential skills for career readiness as they progress toward postsecondary success.” Qualified seniors also earned academic credit through these hands-on experiences, with supervisors providing periodic feedback to assess progress and skill development while upholding high standards of work integrity.
Vuswe Watson ’24 from White Plains found his internship with the Archdiocese of New York’s Investments Department enlightening, stating, “It provided me with insights into my passion. connected personally with my boss and explored my interests before college, realizing that opportunities are within reach with initiative.”
Principal Paul Carty congratulated the seniors on their achievements and acknowledged the supervisors and mentors for their invaluable contributions in shaping the next generation of Stepinac leaders.
Two Stepinac High School Students Honored as Recipients of Xavier E. Flores ’88 Memorial Scholarship
Junior John Marino and Senior John Paul Sateriale were both honored with the Xavier E. Flores ’88 Memorial Scholarship, each receiving $2,500 for their exceptional community service.
Stepinac High School Finishes in Top Tier of 2022 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge In a field dominated by colleges and universities, Stepinac High School’s team comprises five members of the Susan and Daniel P. Mahoney Economics and Finance Honors Academy impressively ranked 99 out of 946 teams that vied for the top honors in the 2022 Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge. The financially savvy investors from the renowned all-boys Catholic high school also placed 31 among the 327 teams in the final North America rankings. Teams were each given $1 million in virtual U.S. dollars to invest in stocks.
Established in memory of a revered Stepinac Alumnus who tragically passed away from COVID-19 four years ago at the age of 49, this scholarship recognizes outstanding contributions to the community.
The objective of the challenge was to outperform the Bloomberg WLS Index. To put the Stepinac team’s performance in perspective, it was pitted against the likes of teams from Bucknell, Columbia, CUNY Baruch College, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Copenhagen Business School, Villanova, University of Liverpool, Mercy College, among others. This year’s first place winner was a team from the University of Southampton, Great Britain.
In a ceremony attended by members of Xavier’s family, including his widow, Evelyn Flores, the two Stepinac students were celebrated for their dedication to serving others.
Photo Caption: From (L to R): Ryan Strzalkowski ’24, Marc Rainone ’24, Anthony Pastilha ’23, Marcus Garcia ’23, & Owen Dowicz ’24
Author & Activist Anthony Ray Hinton Visits Stepinac
Stepinac High School hosted author and activist Anthony Ray Hinton, who shared his memoir “The Sun Does Shine: How I Found Life and Freedom on Death Row.” Hinton spoke to the entire school community, including students, faculty, and staff, highlighting themes of suffering, death, and resurrection during Lent. His visit followed a school-wide reading assignment of his harrowing story of wrongful accusation, conviction, and 28 years on death row for crimes he did not commit. Despite enduring racism and injustice, Hinton remained steadfast in his belief to “always stand up for what you believe in.” He recounted how faith sustained him and enabled him to advocate for fellow inmates, even helping a former KKK member find redemption. In 2014, after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned his conviction, Hinton was exonerated, becoming the 152nd person and sixth in Alabama to be released from death row since 1973. Hinton concluded by challenging Stepinac students to advocate for justice.
John Marino ’25 and John Paul Sateriale ’24 are pictured with President Fr. Thomas Collins ’79 and the family of Xavier E. Flores ’88.
Author & Activist Anthony Ray Hinton
Pictured with Stepinac Students
Seniors Ryan Saunders, Troy Worrell, Anthony LeBlanc, & Owen Dowicz interned with PKF O’Connor Davies Accountant & Advisors.
Pictured with Ryan, Troy, Anthony, and Owen is Executive Chairman, Kevin Keane ’74.
The seniors’ acquisition of meaningful work experiences and essential skills for career readiness as they progress toward post-secondary success.
Frank Portanova ’93 Vice Principal of Academics and Curriculum
around campus
STEPINAC SURPASSES BLOOD DRIVE GOAL IN MEMORY OF CJ HACKETT ‘24
On March 15, 2024, Stepinac High School hosted a successful community blood drive in memory of Christopher Jack (“CJ”) Hackett, a beloved student who passed away at age 16 on August 4, 2022. The event attracted 97 donors—students, parents, faculty, staff, and community members—surpassing the goal of 75 participants.
The donated blood has the potential to save 259 patients in local hospitals, benefiting cancer patients, trauma victims, newborns, and others in need. Held in the school’s gymnasium, donors received a coupon for a free scoop of ice cream at Ice Cream Social in White Plains and a T-shirt featuring CJ’s image.
CJ’s poster highlighted his achievements and personality, describing him as a dedicated student and hardworking teenager who cherished time with family and friends. He is remembered fondly for his kindness and loyalty to those who knew him.
STEPINAC HIGH SCHOOL’S CHOIR TRIUMPHS WITH FOUR TOP AWARDS AT ANNUAL WORLDSTRIDES ORLANDO HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Stepinac’s Vocal Arts & Chorus members showcased their talent at the 2024 WorldStrides Heritage Festivals Awards Ceremony in Orlando, Florida this year, achieving remarkable success. The school received prestigious accolades, including the Adjudicator Award for consistently high scores and recognition as an Outstanding Choral Group. Calvin Lindo ’24, who will attend Boston University, was also honored with the Maestro Award for his exceptional musical prowess and sensitivity. Moreover, the group earned a Gold Rating, reflecting their outstanding performance and making their achievements truly exceptional.
Members of Stepinac’s Vocal Arts & Chorus at the 2024 WorldStrides Heritage Festivals Awards Ceremony
STEPINAC STUDENTS EXCEED 2024 SOUPER BOWL FOOD DRIVE GOAL, COLLECTING OVER 20,000 FOOD ITEMS
Stepinac High School concluded its highly successful 2024 SOUPer Bowl, the school’s largest annual food drive aimed at supporting Feeding Westchester in addressing the region’s food insecurity crisis. Students surpassed their goal by collecting and donating over 20,000 cans of soup and other non-perishable nutritional items. Feeding Westchester distributed these donations to local food pantries, helping to nourish communities throughout Westchester. In recognition of their exceptional efforts, Stepinac’s students enjoyed a day off on Monday, February 12, following Super Bowl Sunday.
The mid-winter timing of Stepinac’s SOUPer Bowl Food Drive, established in 2012, helps replenish food pantry supplies after the holiday season. This initiative is a cornerstone of Stepinac’s Campus Ministry’s annual activities. Last year, students donated over 2,000 pounds of nutritious food items, enabling Feeding Westchester to provide approximately 2,000 meals to children, seniors, and families across the region.
STEPINAC
HIGH SCHOOL’S FOROIGE LEADERSHIP FOR LIFE PROGRAM HEADS BACK TO IRELAND FOR A THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR
From July 29th to August 2nd, 18 Stepinac rising seniors participated in the internationally renowned Foroige Leadership for Life Conference at Maynooth University in County Kildare, Ireland. The Foroige Leadership for Life Conference is a unique experience and learning opportunity for young leaders and gives them the chance to develop the skills and qualities of strong leadership in a fun and safe environment.
Over the course of the five days, our students connected with like-minded peers from around the globe and listened to inspirational leaders from business, sports, philanthropy, media, and more share their personal leadership journeys. They also participated in fun extracurricular activities and events throughout the conference.
Members of CJ’s Crusaders, Organizers of the March 15th Blood Drive in Honor of CJ Hackett ‘24
alumni
STEPINAC’S 35TH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING SELLS OUT AT TWO WESTCHESTER GOLF CLUBS ON JUNE 11TH
Stepinac hosted their 35th Annual Golf Outing at Westchester Hills Golf Club and Fenway Golf Club on a beautiful day. The event drew over 200 players across the two courses and included various contests: Putting, Ring of Fire Hole, Hole in One, Chipping, and Use My Drive, featuring Stepinac Golf Program members Timmy Cleary ‘24 and Quinn Egan ’27. Food and beverages were plentiful and available throughout the event.
Following the golfing event, guests enjoyed a Cocktail Hour featuring a Fresh Mozzarella Station, Scotch Tasting Bar, and a cigar roller. Father Tom Collins ’79 presented the first-place prizes to the winners of the Annual Golf Outing. At Westchester Hills Golf Club, the winning team included Keith Richardson, Pat Duffy, Sal Travaglino, & Eric Lang, while at Fenway Golf Club, Morais Miranda, Caitlin Connors, Mike Connors, & Mike Connors Sr. took home the honors. Later, dinner was served, accompanied by more than 50 grab bag raffles and an online silent auction. The event proved highly successful, raising over $200,000.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the guests, sponsors, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of Stepinac’s 35th Annual Golf Outing, your generous support, dedication, and participation made this event truly memorable. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Stepinac’s 36th Annual Golf Outing, taking place on June 10, 2025.
THIRD ANNUAL YOUNG ALUMNI GOLF OUTING
On Saturday, May 11th, Stepinac High School hosted its third annual Young Alumni Golf Outing. Graduates from the Class of 2006 and younger gathered at Sprain Lake Golf Course in Yonkers for a day of golf and camaraderie.
GRIDIRON & HARDWOOD CLUB DINNER INDUCTEES
On September 14, 2023, four members and one team were inducted into Stepinac’s Gridiron Club. The inductees were:
Stanley Aufieri ’67
Tyrelle Goodman ’11
Enrico Mariani ’92
Vito Priore ’57
The 2007 CHSFL Championship Team
On December 12, 2023, six members were inducted into Stepinac’s Hardwood Club. The inductees were:
Stephen Breen ’86
Raymond Hutter ’91
Joshua James ’13
David Kmetz ’91
Bryan Lynch ’72
Rusty Saunders ’54
alumni
REGIONAL RECEPTIONS
During the 2023-24 school year, we held seven regional receptions and plan to host more events like these across the country. If you’re interested in hosting a regional reception, please contact stepinacalumni@stepinac.org.
TERESA “TERRI” BERRISFORD P’02
Teresa Berrisford passed away on January 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family after bravely battling cancer. Born in The Bronx in 1955, Terri earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Boston College and a Master of Education degree from Fordham University. For over 36 years, she dedicated herself to teaching elementary education at St. Theresa’s Catholic School in Briarcliff. In 2013, Terri joined the faculty at Stepinac, where she taught mathematics and served as a learning specialist until the day she passed.
JOHN DEGNAN ’78
John Degnan passed away on November 1, 2023, at the age of 63, surrounded by family and friends. Born in 1960 in New York City, John graduated from Stepinac High School in 1978 with perfect attendance. John earned a bachelor of arts degree in English Literature from Manhattan College and was a member of the Gaelic Society. John married Noreen in 1980, and they raised four children together.
JASON LEDDY ’93
Jason Leddy, born in 1975 in Mount Vernon, passed away on June 16, 2024, at the age of 49. He graduated from Stepinac High School in 1993 and later earned a bachelor of science degree in Marketing from the University of Scranton. Jason cherished returning to Stepinac to cheer on the basketball and football teams. He is survived by his wife Megan and their sons William and Graham.
REV. MSGR. JOSEPH REYNOLDS
Reverend Monsignor Joseph Reynolds entered eternal life on March 18, 2024. Born in Bronxville, Msgr. Reynolds was a teacher and administrator at Stepinac High School from 1961 to 1974, notably serving as Dean of Discipline. Ordained as a Roman Catholic Priest on May 30, 1959, he faithfully served the Catholic Church and the Archdiocese of New York for over 65 years. Monsignor Reynolds was honored with the title of monsignor in 2006.
EDWARD ROBINSON ’58
“Edward J. Robinson ’58 passed away on February 4, 2024, in Palm Beach, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Deborah, and son, Michael. Ed began his career as a CPA in New York’s financial district and worked at Standard Brands with close friend Ross Johnson. Together, they acquired Nabisco Brands and RJR, where Ed became CFO. In 1988, RJR Nabisco was involved in one of the largest leveraged buyouts in U.S. history, inspiring the book and HBO movie Barbarians at the Gate. He later served as President and COO of Avon and was inducted into Stepinac’s Hall of Fame in 2016.
IN MEMORIUM
Daniel Russo ’51
Francis Hildenbrand ’53
William Seibert ’53
Thomas Brophy ’54
Lawrence McGinn ’54
A. John Steinthal ’54
John Thoener ’54
Martin Koening ’55
Robert Liguori ’56
Joseph Sullivan ’57
John Burke ’58
John Daly ’58
Terence Donnelly ’58
Thomas Griffin ’58
John Pierce ’58
Edward Robinson ’58
David Lynch ’60
Donald Gedney ’61
Michael Linnane ’61
Walter Riegel ’61
Thomas Madden ’63
Richard Joyce ’66
Stephen Kayner ’69
Stephen Buchanan ’70
Michael Pizzolla ’71
Frederick Crane ’73
Anthony Politi ’73
Michael Tierney ’73
John Garbowski ’75
John “Jack” Degnan ’78
James Aitcheson ’79
Casimir Pierz ’81
John Farioli ‘86
Jason Leddy ’93
Matthew Keegan ’02
Arben Kukaj ’18
FACULTY
Teresa “Terri” Berrisford P’02
Rev. Joseph Reynolds
Not Pictured: Saratoga Springs, New York & Point Pleasant, New Jersey Regional Receptions.
ARCHBISHOP STEPINAC HIGH SCHOOL
950 MAMARONECK AVENUE
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK 10605
PARENTS OF ALUMNI: PLEASE FORWARD IF YOUR SON HAS MOVED & CONTACT THE STEPINAC ADVANCEMENT OFFICE WITH HIS NEW ADDRESS
STEPPING UP THE DRAMA
IN THE WORLD OF HIGH SCHOOL THEATER, STEPINAC HIGH SCHOOL MADE WAVES WITH ITS AMBITIOUS AND THRILLING PRODUCTIONS OF “CLUE” AND “CATCH ME IF YOU CAN.”
These two vastly different shows showcased the diversity and talent of the school’s drama department, drawing audiences into the Major Bowes Auditorium and leaving a lasting impression with their unique storytelling and energetic performances.
Based on the iconic board game and subsequent film, “Clue” is a murder mystery comedy that challenged both actors and audience members alike to solve the puzzle of whodunit. Stepinac High School brought this beloved story to life with a blend of suspense and humor, capturing the essence of the game’s quirky characters and intricate plot twists. The show starred Calvin Lindo, Ryan Diaz, John Paul Sateriale, and Sterling Varga, all members of the class of 2024.
Stepinac also embarked on the exhilarating journey of “Catch Me If You Can,” based on the true story of Frank Abagnale Jr., a notorious con artist who posed as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer—all before his 21st birthday. The musical extravaganza blended elements of comedy, drama, and suspense. Calvin Lindo ’24, who played Frank Abagnale Jr., went on to win the 2024 Metro Award for Best Male Vocal Performance. stepinac.org