Issuu

BELLARMINE BLESSING

o f Retiring Principal Cindy Davis

MAGAZINE 2026

MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS SCHOOL LEADERSHIP Jack Connelly

Chair; Board of Directors

Dr. Kelly Goodsell President

Fr. Greg Celio, S.J.

Jesuit Superior

Mike Chambers B’97

Principal

Laura Rose

Vice President of Institutional Advancement & Community Engagement

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Craig Coovert

Communications Director

EDITORIAL STAFF Maddy Freeberg B’07

Executive Assistant to the President

Regan Laughlin B’21 DESIGN STAFF Mindi Morin

MORIN Designs

Regan Laughlin B’21 OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Anne Gintz

Director of Alumni & Donor Relations

Jessica Achziger B’02 Executive Assistant to the Principal

TABLE OF CONTENTS 04

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

CINDY DAVIS: LEADING WITH HEART

REFLECTION BY MIKE CHAMBERS B’97

BELLARMINE GOES GLOCAL

RAISING LEADERS, BUILDING CULTURE

LIONS LEADING LIONS

EVERY GIFT SUPPORTS A LION

ST. ROBERT BELLARMINE AWARD 2026

HONORING TWO FORMER BOARD CHAIRS

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

ear Friends of Bellarmine,

Welcome to the 2026 Bellarmine Magazine. I pray you enjoy this edition and that these pages offer a glimpse into the many ways God continues to work through our community. My hope is that you will finish this magazine with a deep sense of joy and pride for everything happening on the Hill.

As Bellarmine enters its 98th year, we prepare to celebrate a remarkable milestone. For nearly a century, our school has remained steadfast in its mission to provide a holistic Catholic education, one that forms young men and women of competence, conscience, compassion and commitment. While much has changed over those 98 years, our purpose endures. We inspire young people to know Christ, pursue excellence and lead lives of service. Today, our students continue to build on that legacy. They are scholars, athletes, artists and servant leaders who are already making a meaningful difference in the world. Likewise, our extraordinary alumni demonstrate what is possible when faith is translated into action and leadership is grounded in Gospel values. Together, they remind us that Bellarmine is not simply a school; it is a lifelong community. Our theme for the 2026–2027 school year, Rooted and Rising, captures both where we have come from and where God is calling us to. We are called to remain rooted in our Catholic faith, our Jesuit tradition and the values that have shaped generations of Lions. We are also called to remain open to the Holy Spirit, trusting that God is continually

renewing and forming us. Our rooted faith gives us strength for the journey; our rising hope gives us confidence to embrace the future. This past year reminded us that every journey includes seasons of loss. We learned to navigate life on the Hill without two of our beloved Jesuits, Fr. Jerry Chapdelaine, S.J. (who passed away in the spring of 2025) and Fr. Fred Mayovsky, S.J. (now living and serving with a Jesuit community in Los Gatos, California) whose presence helped to shape Bellarmine for many years. We also remembered alumni, benefactors, former board members and cherished Bellarmine parents whose generosity, leadership and love played an integral role in building the community we treasure today.

Former Bellarmine Presidents Jack Peterson and Rob Modarelli B’82 joined President Kelly Goodsell and Fr. Greg Celio, S.J. at the Bellarmine Athletic Hall of Fame.

With gratitude, we entrusted them to God’s care. Their lives remind us that we stand on the shoulders of those who come before us. They showed us the way, and now it is our turn to carry the mission forward with the same generosity and moral courage they so faithfully modeled. This year also marks a season of employee transitions as longtime faculty members and our principal, Cindy Davis, retire after a combined 99 years of faithful service to Bellarmine. We are grateful for their vocation and lasting impact on countless students. At the same time, we are excited to welcome Mr. Mike Chambers B’97 (pictured left) as Bellarmine’s next principal. An accomplished Catholic, Jesuit educator and administrator, Mike brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to the formation of young people. We look forward with confidence to his

leadership as we continue preparing for our Centennial and writing the next chapter of Bellarmine’s story. Bellarmine is indeed a school on the rise. This year, our students achieved new levels of excellence across academics, athletics and co-curricular life, demonstrating the talent and character that define a Jesuit education. Our commitment to serving others continues to deepen through thriving community partnerships, reflecting our belief in being a school of community and for community. Our students extended their learning beyond the classroom walls to the margins of need and places of cultural encounter. Through service and leadership, they applied their Jesuit education to make a meaningful impact in our local community and around the world. The excellence of our faculty and staff remains a cornerstone of our success; their distinguished accomplishments and dedication to intellectual, spiritual and personal formation continue to elevate the student experience. This year was made possible through the extraordinary generosity of our benefactors. Together, we achieved record-breaking levels of philanthropic support, strengthening our commitment to ensuring that a Bellarmine education remains accessible and affordable. We are profoundly grateful to our alumni, families, partners and benefactors, whose unwavering belief in our mission makes all that we do possible. Your partnership is a lasting investment. With every page you read, I invite you to journey with us. Celebrate the accomplishments of our students and alumni, and look with zeal toward the future God is preparing for our school. Together, rooted in faith and rising in hope, may we continue building a Bellarmine that will inspire generations to come. May God bless you and your family, and may He continue to bless Bellarmine.

Dr. Kelly Goodsell, President Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Bellarmine Companions in School Leadership:

Back: Fr. Greg Celio, S.J., Jesuit Superior; Dr. Kelly Goodsell, President; Mike Chambers, Principal Front: Jack Connelly, Board of Directors Chair; Heidi Alessi, Board of Directors Vice-Chair

CINDY DAVIS

leading with heart

As Bellarmine Preparatory School reflects on Principal Cindy Davis’s retirement at the close of this past school year, the community honors her legacy of leadership, defined by presence, purpose and a deep commitment to students. Students and colleagues point to her constant presence in school life as a defining characteristic of her tenure. Whether attending games, stopping by club meetings or greeting students in the hallway each morning, Davis made it clear that every student belonged. “She’s always in the hallways encouraging us,” one student shared. “It really shows that we belong here because she cares so much about how students feel.” Those daily interactions became the foundation of Davis’s leadership. Students knew she was paying attention, and they understood that their experiences mattered. “I think it brings her joy to have that connection with students,” another student noted, reflecting on her consistent, daily engagement with students.

A Leadership Rooted in Mission Mission guided Davis throughout her career. She viewed leadership less as authority than as influence, built through compassion, engagement and service. “Leadership is influence,” one student reflected. “And she’s influenced a lot of us to pass that down.” For Davis, the work of a Jesuit school is visible in the growth of its students. She has watched generations of Lions arrive unsure of who they might become and leave prepared to serve others. “One of the greatest honors I’ve had,” Davis said, “is to watch a freshman student show up on campus for the very first time with that sense of wonder, wondering who they will meet and who they will become.”

Expanding Access and Opportunity Accessibility has long been one of Davis’s priorities.

Drawing on her background in education and health, she understood that student success depended on more than academics. Students also needed to feel welcomed, supported and cared for. “Bellarmine’s mission is about accessibility,” Davis explained. “It’s about knowing who we are and being a school that is welcoming to all.” Through tuition assistance and community-supported efforts such as the Gala’s Fund-A-Need, Davis worked with the Bellarmine community to remove barriers and make a Jesuit education available to more families. “We want this for every student,” she said. “For everyone who desires a Catholic Jesuit education.”

Building a Community of Care Those who have experienced Bellarmine under Davis’s leadership consistently speak of a strong sense of belonging. Students describe feeling not only welcomed, but appreciated for the unique qualities they bring to the community. Conversations with Davis often center

Kavan Davis B’04, Cindy Davis, Kara Davis B’06, Jacin Davis B’02 on how to strengthen that collective experience and continue building a culture rooted in care and inclusion. “I didn’t just see it, I felt it,” G Alvarado B’20 shared. “That sense of being welcomed and seen, and appreciated for who we are.” Her leadership reflects a model of service leadership, one that prioritizes listening, collaboration and the well-being of the entire community.

A Commitment That Extends Beyond the Campus For Davis, the work of Bellarmine does not end at graduation. It is about forming students who will go out into the world prepared to lead and serve. The generosity of the Bellarmine community plays a key role in making that possible. Events like the Gala serve as visible

expressions of the school’s commitment to its mission, ensuring that access to this transformative experience continues to grow. “The generosity of our community provides access to an institution designed to change hearts and minds,” Davis said. “So our students can go out and lead and serve as Jesus intended.”

A Leader Who Walks with Her Students Ultimately, Cindy Davis’s leadership is not defined by grand gestures, but by a consistent, intentional presence - walking alongside students as they grow, learn and discover their place in the world. Through her commitment to belonging, accessibility and mission, she has helped shape Bellarmine into a community where students are not only educated, but truly known. And in that space, they are empowered to become exactly who they are meant to be.

We invite you to scan the QR code or visit bellarmineprep. org/lion-legacy to give today and join Cindy in ensuring a Bellarmine education remains open and accessible to all.

s I reflect on my years of service in Catholic and Jesuit education, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to participate in a mission that is both transformative and deeply rooted in faith. The privilege of accompanying young people during some of the most formative years of their lives has been a profound blessing and a constant reminder of God’s presence in our community. At the heart of our mission is cura personalis —care for the whole person. This Jesuit principle calls us to recognize the unique dignity, gifts and potential of every student entrusted to our care. Our work extends far beyond academic achievement. We are called to nurture minds, hearts and spirits, helping students discover who they are and who God is calling them to become. The ultimate goal of Jesuit education is the formation of young men and women who will use their talents in service to others and for the greater good. Through rigorous academics, meaningful relationships, faith formation, service opportunities and reflective experiences, we strive to develop students who embody the qualities of the Graduate at Graduation: individuals who are Open to Growth, Intellectually Competent, Loving, Religious and Committed to Social Justice. These qualities are reflected in the Jesuit vision of forming people of competence, compassion, conscience and commitment. We seek to develop competence by

challenging students to pursue excellence, think critically, communicate effectively and engage the world with intellectual curiosity and confidence. We nurture compassion by fostering empathy, respect and genuine concern for others, helping students recognize the inherent dignity of every person as a child of God. We form conscience by encouraging reflection, discernment and a deep awareness of God’s call in their lives, empowering students to make ethical decisions grounded in faith and justice. And we inspire commitment by inviting students to become people for and with others, dedicated to serving their communities, advocating for justice and responding generously to the needs of all God’s people. One of the greatest gifts of serving in a Jesuit school community is witnessing the impact of these values as students embrace them and grow into men and women for and with others. They learn that leadership is rooted in service, that success is measured not only by personal achievement but also by the impact they have on others, and that faith calls them to action in the world.

Together, we seek to create an environment where every student is known, valued, challenged and loved. As we continue this sacred work, may we remain faithful to our Jesuit and Catholic mission. May we never lose sight of our responsibility to form young people who are intellectually capable, spiritually grounded, compassionate in heart and committed to building a more just and loving world. In doing so, we help prepare graduates who will lead lives of purpose and service, always seeking to find God in all things and to answer the call to serve all of God’s people. It has been an honor to serve as Bellarmine’s principal. Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving this remarkable community. Bellarmine will forever remain in my prayers and in my heart.

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam — All for the Greater Glory of God

This mission is sustained by a community united in purpose; faculty and staff who accompany students with dedication and care; families who partner in the work of formation; and students whose energy, generosity and hope continually inspire us.

THE MISSION OF A

JESUIT EDUCATION A REFLECTION BY CINDY DAVIS

42Years

CINDY DAVIS

LIVING THE MISSION

EARLY CAREER

MID--1990s

1997--98 Appointed as Department Chair for Physical Education and Health.

2002--03

Expanded responsibilities into leading the school in Health and Safety. Founded the Student Assistance Program – an intervention initiative designed to support students in making healthy choices and addressing personal challenges.

Served as a long-term substitute teacher and coach at Mount Rainier High School. Worked as the Head Volleyball Coach and Track & Field Coach at Federal Way High School, after graduating from college.

1984 Hired at Bellarmine as a Health and Science Teacher. Coached Track & Field during her first three years of teaching at Bellarmine.

Earned Administrative Credentials. Appointed to the role of Dean of Students. Simultaneously, she served as Activities Director. Both roles held through June 2014.

2007 Assumed leadership of the Associated Student Body (ASB) Program.

2014 Appointed as Interim Principal.

2015 Named Bellarmine’s 21st Principal.

2023--24 Acted as Interim President.

2025--26 Retired at the end of the school year after 42 years of service to Bellarmine.

A CONVERSATION WITH NEW PRINCIPAL

MIKE CHAMBERS B’97 Bellarmine’s next principal discusses leadership, Jesuit education and returning to his alma mater. More than 25 years after graduating from Bellarmine, Mike Chambers B‘97 is back at the school that helped shape his life and career. As Bellarmine’s next principal, Chambers brings with him a deep belief in Jesuit education, years of leadership experience and a personal connection to the community he now serves. To introduce him to the Bellarmine community, we handed the questions to someone who knows him especially well: his son, Jack - a current senior at Bellarmine.

What was your first reaction when you found out you’d become the next principal of your alma mater? My first reaction was feeling grateful and humbled. Grateful because I love Bellarmine and believe deeply in Jesuit education. I’m grateful to be back on campus, working with a talented team and spending time with students again. And I feel humbled because it is an honor to be part of this community and to follow principals like Cindy Davis, Chris Gavin and those who came before them. I’m just happy to be part of this community.

What does it mean to you personally to come back and lead the community that helped form you? It’s not so much leading a community that helped form me as it is being part of a community that is doing so much to form today’s Bellarmine students. I am grateful for the formation I received during my time here. Bellarmine helped put me on a path toward Jesuit education, something I believe in very deeply. I am looking forward to the role I can play in helping students discover what God has in store for them and grow into the people they are called to be.

What have you learned about leadership from being a parent? In my last role, I worked with the presidents and principals of all 19 Jesuit schools on the West Coast. The leaders I admired most were those who focused on relationships throughout the school community. Being a parent has softened me. It has helped me better accept and love people for who they are. There is nothing like being a parent to teach someone how to love another person despite imperfections. You and your sisters never had to do anything to earn my love. I just love you. Years before sitting down to interview his father as Bellarmine’s next principal, Jack joined him for a “Take Your Child to Work Day” at St. Andrew Nativity School in Portland, Oregon, when he was in second grade.

Being a principal is obviously different, but parenthood has taught me to give people more grace and to be accepting and generous, even when we all fall short at times.

Mike and Jack Chambers pose together during the summer before the 2026-27 school year. Jack will begin his senior year at Bellarmine, while Mike starts his first year as principal.

We’ve had some of the same teachers during our time at Bellarmine, including Jeanne Dressel Hanigan B’84, Rick Barnhart, Bernie Salazar and Megan Hussey Matthew. Are there any classes or memories from those teachers that still stand out to you, and how did they help shape who you became? I wouldn’t embarrass any of those teachers with specific memories from more than 30 years ago, but I will say that I’m grateful to Ms. Matthew for writing my college recommendation. I also got an A-minus from Ms. Hanigan in Newspaper because I didn’t get enough advertisers for the paper, which is something I clearly still remember. I was lucky to have positive relationships with all my teachers when I went here. They are probably part of the reason I went into teaching and why I have dedicated so much of my career to this work. I have deep admiration for the work Bellarmine teachers do, and that is as true today as it was when I was a student.

Jesuit schools emphasize forming “men and women for and with others.” What does that mean to you personally? I believe deeply in that central tenet of Jesuit education, but I think we sometimes forget that it comes from a much longer speech by Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J. when he was Superior General of the Jesuits. It’s easy to think of being people for others as simply being nice and treating each other well. That’s important. But Arrupe roots the idea much more deeply in our relationship with God. He challenges us to understand that love of God must include love for the least of our brothers and sisters. He even describes love of God that does not result in justice for others as a farce. Living that out is much harder than simply being kind to one another. For me, forming men and women for and with others means helping students manifest their love of God through love of neighbor, especially those who need it most.

If you could give one message to students as you begin this role, what would it be?

How do you separate being a father at home and a principal at school?

I would quote one of the best men I ever knew, Fr. Jerry Chapdelaine, S.J.: “You are loved.”

I’ve always had a pretty bright line between work and home. It won’t be perfect, I’m sure, but it’s usually pretty clear to me which hat I’m wearing.

I hope Bellarmine is a place where students know and feel that they are loved and where they experience a culture of kinship with one another.

Just don’t get into a lot of trouble next year….

A SURPRISING

CALL

HOME A Reflection by Mike Chambers B'97, Bellarmine's Next Principal

ne of my favorite images of God is that our God is a God of surprises. In many ways, I am surprised at finding myself the next principal at Bellarmine. Not surprised from a place of false humility or insecurity; I do think I have had experiences and hold gifts that lend themselves to this role. But when I was a student at Bellarmine and then Gonzaga University; when I was teaching Kindergarten in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps in Denver, Colorado; when I spent 16 years at St. Andrew Nativity School in Portland, Oregon, first as a teacher and then principal; and then over these past seven years working for the Jesuits West province to support the 19 Jesuit schools in the western part of the country, it never occurred to me that I might someday want to be Bellarmine’s principal. So, yes, I am surprised. But it is a deeper kind of surprise, one rooted in wonder and gratitude as I recognize a path I did not create for myself, but one that God has been quietly shaping along the way. I am

Mike Chambers senior yearbook photo

grateful for the invitation to participate in that unfolding plan and excited to see where it leads. Hindsight being 20/20, I probably should not have been so surprised at this next chapter. I have taught in and led Jesuit schools for my entire career. I believe deeply in the mission of Jesuit education. This mission is about helping young people know and love themselves in better and deeper ways so that they can grow into their potential, into the people for others that God and our world need them to be. It is about teaching students that they are not alone. As St. Ignatius teaches, they are loved and are called to something beyond themselves. And that, sometimes, if they listen to that call, they might be surprised by where it leads. This is profoundly meaningful work. One of the gifts of my most recent work for Jesuits West province has been the opportunity to spend time at all of the 19 Jesuit schools in our Province, from Alaska to Arizona, and many more throughout North America. That perspective gives me the confidence to state that Bellarmine is an outstanding Jesuit, Catholic high school. The strength of this school is a reflection of the strength of the wider community. Bellarmine thrives because of the people who care about its success: students, faculty, staff, administrators, board members, parents, alums, benefactors and friends who have labored for this mission, sacrificed for this mission and

loved this mission into life. As an alumnus and parent, I am truly appreciative for the people who have helped to ensure that a vibrant Jesuit and Catholic high school community is available in Tacoma. As the next principal, I am incredibly humbled to have the opportunity to serve this institution and wider community. I am proud of the students Bellarmine serves: young people full of potential, searching for meaning and ready to discover how they might help make our world a better place. I am moved by the faculty and staff at Bellarmine who dedicate themselves daily to forming young people for others. And I am inspired by a community that believes, as I do, that education is more than just preparation for college or career, although it is certainly that; Bellarmine education is formation for life. As I step into this role, I hold both gratitude for Bellarmine’s rich legacy and excitement for its future. The foundation built by those who came before is strong and I look

forward to working with this community as we listen to where the Spirit is calling Bellarmine next. In the Jesuit tradition, we believe that God is present in all things. I have found God in the path that has led me here, in the people who have walked and will walk alongside me, and in the mission we share. I may have been surprised by this call, but I am so thankful that it led me back home.

Casey Whitson, Music Department Chair, Builds More Than Musicians

hen Bellarmine Band Director and Music Department Chair Casey Whitson talks about Bellarmine’s band program, he spends less time discussing their trophies and performances and more time talking about community. Since joining Bellarmine in 2013, Whitson has watched hundreds of students grow as musicians, leaders and young adults. For him, music education is about much more than learning notes and rhythms. It is about teaching perseverance, accountability and collaboration.

“JOINING A MUSIC GROUP IS JOINING A FAMILY WITHIN A FAMILY.”

Whitson believes music occupies a unique place in a student’s education. Unlike many other classes, students are expected to prepare individually and then perform publicly as part of a team.

“It is like a sport with no bench and a class where the tests are all taken live in public,” he said. Those experiences, he said, align closely with Bellarmine’s Jesuit mission. Through music, students develop competence through preparation, conscience through personal responsibility and compassion through supporting one another during challenges and setbacks. The lessons learned in band often extend beyond music.

Whitson credits music with teaching him the value of hard work when he was a student. He hopes Bellarmine musicians graduate with a similar understanding that growth comes through sustained effort.

“You’ll never master music, but if you can master the pursuit of excellence in music, you can take that to whatever you ultimately decide to do in life,” he said. One of the greatest rewards of his job is watching students develop over four years. He sees students improve musically, gain confidence and emerge as leaders within the program. Every year, graduating seniors leave behind leadership roles that seem difficult to replace. Yet Whitson has learned that younger students consistently rise to the challenge. “Every successive class steps up and takes the mantle from those that came before,” he said. Leadership opportunities are built into the program. Section leaders mentor younger musicians, while drum majors help lead the marching band and serve as visible representatives of the program.

Students often discover that the band community includes classmates they might not otherwise meet. Musicians come from a wide range of backgrounds and participate in nearly every activity on campus, from athletics to student government. The bonds formed through rehearsals, performances, travel and competitions frequently become one of the defining parts of a student’s high school experience.

“WE ARE INCREASINGLY DRIVEN APART AND TOWARD MEDIOCRITY.

MUSIC IS THE ANTITHESIS OF BOTH.”

“I get plenty of students that have come through the Bellarmine band and left saying it was the main reason they wanted to come to school each day,” Whitson said. The 2025-26 school year brought notable achievements for the program. Bellarmine Jazz I earned first place in its division at the Jazz Unlimited competition at Columbia Basin College. Combined performances from Jazz I and Wind Ensemble also earned Bellarmine the Outstanding Music Department Award. Still, Whitson measures success less by awards than by students’ experiences. “When the kids feel good about it,” he said, “that feeling doesn’t always adhere to the objective quality of the music performed.” Looking ahead, Whitson is excited about the continued growth of Bellarmine’s music program and the opportunities available to students, including performances, travel experiences and the annual marching band season. If he had to describe the program in three words, the answer comes quickly: “Family, community and excellence.” For Whitson, those words capture what makes music matter at Bellarmine. In a world that often pulls people apart, he believes music continues to bring them together.

- CASEY WHITSON

Casey Whitson

SONG

BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH

Choir Director Tauvia Eggebroten Focuses on Community Growth at Bellarmine When Tauvia Eggebroten arrived at Bellarmine as a fulltime faculty member in 2025, she brought a vision for music education that extends beyond performance. As Bellarmine’s Choir Director and Director of Liturgical Music, Eggebroten views music as a vehicle for personal growth, self-expression and community building. Since taking over the program, she has focused on creating an environment where students can develop both as musicians and as individuals. “To learn how to be human is the greatest education we can give students,” Eggebroten said.That philosophy guides her work with students in choir and across Bellarmine’s music program. She sees the classroom as an example of cura personalis – the Jesuit principle of caring for the whole person. While students develop musical skills and perform at a high level, Eggebroten said music also provides opportunities for students to grow in self-awareness, express emotions and develop empathy for others. The program flourished during her first year at Bellarmine. Enrollment in Bellarmine music courses increased by approximately 27 percent. Eggebroten said that the most meaningful marker of success has been seeing students reconnect with music and discover a renewed sense of purpose in their participation. Students are often surprised by the culture they find in the music program. Making music, particularly singing, requires students to perform in front of their peers, take risks and learn from mistakes.

Tauvia Eggebroten

Eggebroten said many students arrive expecting judgment but instead find support. “Students seem to be most surprised by how they are able to be part of a community of students from all grades where they do not feel judged,” she said. That environment helps students develop confidence and discipline. Musicians learn that their preparation affects the success of the entire ensemble, while consistent practice teaches perseverance and accountability. Choir presents its own unique challenges and rewards. Unlike instrumentalists, singers use their own voices as their instruments. Eggebroten said that creates opportunities for personal expression and growth while fostering strong connections among students of different experience levels and backgrounds. Bellarmine choir students also participate beyond campus, including the Catholic Choir Festival and annual performances at the Grotto Festival of Lights in Portland. The choir program plays an important role in the school’s spiritual life as well. Through Masses and prayer services, student musicians help lead worship and encourage participation in the liturgy. Quoting St. Augustine’s observation that “he who sings prays twice,” Eggebroten said music allows students to engage with faith in a unique and meaningful way.

Over time, she has watched students grow into leaders, mentors and community builders. Whether serving as section leaders or supporting younger musicians, students learn that leadership is rooted in service and collaboration. “I want them to approach the world with compassion, humility, curiosity and a commitment to building meaningful relationships within their communities,” Eggebroten said. Looking ahead, she hopes to expand performance opportunities and strengthen connections throughout the Bellarmine community. One upcoming partnership will bring students to Brookdale Allenmore (a senior living community), where they will perform Christmas carols for residents during the holiday season. For Eggebroten, the success of the program is not measured by perfect performances. “I know a performance has been successful when I see students genuinely smiling onstage and having fun making music together as a community,” she said. “Whether all the notes are there is secondary.” That approach reflects what she hopes students gain from their experience in choir: confidence, empathy and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond their years at Bellarmine.

PAROCHIAL BAND

A Regional Partnership in Music Education Students from Catholic schools across the South Sound come together to learn, perform and grow through music, while building a foundation for future success at Bellarmine. Bellarmine’s Parochial Band program is currently offered as an after-school enrichment opportunity for elementary and middle school students. Students from All Saints, St. Frances Cabrini, St. Charles Borromeo, St. Patrick, Pope St. John XXIII STEM, St. Nicholas and Holy Rosary come to Bellarmine on Tuesday and Thursday evenings to rehearse in Beginning Band and Advanced Band ensembles. The program presents three concerts each year, and members of the Advanced Band participate in a regional festival each spring. Band Director Casey Whitson said the program serves two primary purposes: providing parochial school students with instrumental music education comparable to that offered at many public schools and creating a strong pipeline of skilled musicians who may continue their musical journey at Bellarmine.

GLOBAL JESUIT INITIATIVES “Grounded in Scripture and made true through Communion, we are shown the way to walk as companions in mission. We are rooted in faith and sent forth to serve one another.” - Dr. Kelly Goodsell, President

Through its partnership with Courts for Kids, Bellarmine students participate in international service immersion trips, working alongside local communities to build multi-use sports courts.

BELLARMINE GOES

Glocal SERVING BEYOND THE HILL

Bellarmine’s new Office of Global Engagement expands opportunities for students to engage with the world through a Jesuit lens. Bellarmine has launched a new Office of Global Engagement, an initiative designed to strengthen the school’s commitment to forming students who understand their place in an interconnected world and who are prepared to respond with faith, compassion and action. The office is led by Mary Rink B’88, Bellarmine’s inaugural Director of Global Engagement. The new position reflects a growing emphasis within Jesuit education on helping students engage with complex topics such as justice, reconciliation, intercultural understanding and global citizenship. At Bellarmine, those values are not new. Service programs, immersion experiences, Ignatian Formation, multicultural programming and justice initiatives have long been part of student life. The Office of Global Engagement is intended to bring those efforts into closer alignment while creating new opportunities for collaboration both on campus and across the worldwide Jesuit network. Former Principal Cindy Davis said the role was created to help students, families and employees better understand the global mission of Jesuit education. “Bellarmine is part of a worldwide contingent of schools called the Global Jesuit School Network,” Davis said. “The

Mary Rink B’88, Bellarmine’s inaugural Director of Global Engagement

Director of Global Engagement position was created to ensure our students, families and employees have a global perspective and understanding of the work of Jesuit education.” She added that Bellarmine seeks to create academic, campus ministry and co-curricular experiences that engage students in both local and global issues and prepare them to become effective leaders who embody the Jesuit ideal of being men and women with and for others. The creation of the office also reflects a broader initiative across the Jesuit Schools Network. In recent years, global engagement has become a central focus of Jesuit education, encouraging schools to help students understand their responsibility to local and worldwide communities alike. Catharine Steffens, the Jesuit Schools Network’s Director of Global Perspectives, describes the work as developing experiences that lead students toward “an encounter with Christ” that inspires action for justice and reconciliation “locally and globally, with God.”

Glocal refers to the blending of global vision and local action within the ministries of the Society of Jesus.

Through its Global Perspectives framework, the Jesuit Schools Network encourages schools to appoint leaders who help integrate an Ignatian global perspective throughout school life.

community. This year, several affinity group leaders attended Seattle Preparatory School’s Global Perspectives Week and returned with ideas that helped shape the expanded Culture-Fest programming, including student-led breakout sessions focused on cultural learning and dialogue.

Magis, a global Jesuit education network that supports collaboration and exchange among students and educators.

Future priorities include staying rooted in Gospel values, greater integration of global and At Bellarmine, much of that justice-focused perspectives into work is already underway. the curriculum and expanded Students participate in Courts ecological programming for Kids immersion experiences, Global engagement also takes inspired by Laudato Si’, which building multi-use courts in shape through Justice Summit is Pope Francis’s 2015 encyclical underserved communities while Week, Earth Week sustainability on caring for the environment deepening their understanding initiatives, local service and promoting social and of service and solidarity. The partnerships and opportunities for ecological responsibility. school’s Ignatian Formation interfaith dialogue. program introduces themes of Underlying all of these initiatives faith, reflection and vocation Looking ahead, Bellarmine is a shared vision embraced by across all four years of a student’s plans to expand those efforts Jesuit schools around the world, experience. through participation in the helping students understand Jesuit Schools Network’s Ignatian both their local responsibilities The Multicultural Center, Global Scholars program, which and their place within a larger affinity groups and annual recognizes students who engage global community. The Office Multicultural Week celebrate the deeply with issues of global of Global Engagement exists to full diversity of the Bellarmine citizenship across academic and ensure that every student comes co-curricular experiences. to know and be inspired by the life of Jesus and the witness of The school is also strengthening the saints through an education connections with Jesuit schools rooted in service, solidarity and worldwide through Educate engagement with the world. Through meaningful experiences of service and global engagement, students are invited to encounter others; recognize the dignity of every person and discern how they are called to be men and women for and with others; companions in mission who put faith into action.

A M D G

WALKING with

PURPOSE

Bellarmine partners with Boston College to build student capacity in faith formation: The AMDG Program

This year, Bellarmine participated in Boston College’s AMDG Program, a year-long faith formation experience funded by Boston College’s partnership with the Lilly Foundation, with the goal of having students deepen their relationship with Christ through Ignatian spirituality, service and community. Throughout the year, students participated in faith formation, served their community monthly at St. Leo Food Connection and participated in retreats at Boston College and the Grand Coteau Jesuit Retreat House in Louisiana. The journey culminated in June 2026, when 10 Bellarmine students, accompanied by Theology teacher Debra Sauvage and Jesuit Superior Fr. Greg Celio, S.J., joined students from Regis Jesuit Girls Division in Denver to walk a portion of the historic Ignatian Camino in Spain. Following the path traveled by St. Ignatius of Loyola after his conversion in 1522, the group walked approximately 50 miles while combining daily prayer, reflection and spiritual conversation with the physical challenge of pilgrimage. Along the way, they visited significant Ignatian sites and practiced the Examen, deepening their understanding of companionship, resilience and discernment.

The Lilly Endowment grant supports the AMDG Program for two years. This summer, a new Bellarmine cohort from the Class of 2028 will travel to Boston College to begin the next chapter of the program.

WALKING TOGETHER A STUDENT’S REFLECTION

A reflection by Lex Achziger B’27, a Bellarmine AMDG participant The AMDG Program has been such an amazing adventure to embark on during my sophomore and junior years at Bellarmine. It has been more than just a program- it has been an opportunity to step back from the busyness of life and reflect upon the importance of my faith, values and relationships with others. My AMDG journey began with a retreat at Boston College, where we formed a community with other Jesuit schools and parishes. Throughout the program, our Bellarmine group met monthly for faith formation and to serve at St. Leo’s Food Bank. Moreover, a three-day silent retreat in Louisiana challenged us to disconnect from everyday hurried routines and distractions, listen for God’s voice, and reflect on how we are receivers of Christ’s sacred heart and are called to share Christ’s love with others. The program concluded with the Camino de Ignacio, a week-long pilgrimage that was both physically and spiritually demanding. Each day we walked anywhere from 6 to 13 miles, spending time every morning to reflect on guided questions and the life of St. Ignatius, while learning to lead a life of service rather than one driven by materialism or self-glory. Every opportunity provided by this program has been transformative and meaningful. A moment that stood out to me the most was our hike into Montserrat, where Ignatius laid down his sword and armor representing his transition from a worldly soldier to a spiritual pilgrim committed to serving God. This hike through the mountains was technical and

difficult, yet it contained the most rewarding views of the Spanish landscapes and cities. Each step required focus and trust in ourselves and in one another. We could have raced through this hike, all at our own paces, but we chose to move together as one. As a group we focused on staying united by slowing down, offering a helping hand, informing others of what the trail ahead looked like, and following the crucial rule of always being able to see group members in front and behind us to ensure that the group remained unified at all times. Although this moment may seem simple, it truly embodied the meaning of AMDG, to live “For the Greater Glory of God.” The goal of our hike was never to see how fast we could reach our destination, but it was about ensuring that everyone arrived together. That day taught me that community is formed through small acts of patience, encouragement and compassion. It also reinforced the Bellarmine teaching of servant leadership, that leadership is ongoing in both one’s words and actions and it is important to prioritize the growth of the group. The greatest act of leadership is not focusing on the finish line but the journey it takes to get there and the community built along the way. These events have truly allowed me to deepen my Catholic faith and have strengthened and brought to life the Jesuit principles taught at Bellarmine. More often than not, we work to acquire success individually focusing on how quickly we can achieve our goals and surpass those we deem as competition. However, the Camino has taught me that we are stronger not as individuals but as a community united in a shared purpose. As a community, it is our eagerness to slow down and support

one another in solidarity that creates success. These lessons reflect the Jesuit values that Bellarmine has and continues to instill in me; the importance of being a person for and with others, to lead with compassion, and to work together for the greater good. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to experience the many blessings of the AMDG Program, especially during my time at Bellarmine. This program has challenged me to grow in my faith and leadership with the Ignatian values at the forefront of my life. As I journey through my senior year and all that God has in store, I hope to live out the many Jesuit values, especially the principles of measuring success not by how far ahead I am of others, but by how faithfully I choose to walk with and uplift those around me. The real life of a pilgrim is never done, I can’t wait for what is to come next.

Cheer Volleyball

Spring Musical

Football

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Robotics

Girls Soccer

Model UN

Orchestra

Boys Basketball

ACTIVITIES AND ATHLETICS

Marine Chemistry

Scan the QR code or visit https://www. bellarmineprep.org/student-experience/ athletics to view Bellarmine’s athletic schedules.

LEADERS building CULTURE

raising

Bellarmine’s new Director of Athletics and Activities, Ron Cheatham B’92, shares his vision for Lion athletics Bellarmine alumnus Ron Cheatham B’92 recently returned to campus as the school’s new Director of Athletics and Activities. In this conversation, he discusses his vision for athletics, the role of sports in Jesuit education and what excites him most about serving the Bellarmine community.

What is your vision for Bellarmine Athletics? My vision for Bellarmine athletics is simple: Raise leaders. Build culture. Compete with purpose. Athletics is one of the most powerful environments for formation within a school. Our teams should help students grow in discipline, resilience, humility, teamwork, leadership and care for others. We want to compete at a high level, but we also want to compete in a way that reflects who we are as a Catholic, Jesuit school. For me, Bellarmine athletics should be a place where students are known,

challenged, supported and formed. It should be a place where coaches see themselves not only as coaches, but also as leaders and mentors. If we do that well, competitive excellence and student formation can strengthen one another.

What do you see as the greatest strengths of our athletic program today? The greatest strength of Bellarmine athletics is the people. We have committed, caring coaches, talented student-athletes, supportive families and a school community that is intentional about the formation of young people. There is also a strong sense of tradition here. Bellarmine has a proud athletic history, but even more importantly, it has a mission that gives athletics deeper purpose. Our programs are not separate from the life of the school. They are part of how we help students become people of competence, conscience, compassion and commitment.

What opportunities for growth or improvement are you most excited about? I am excited about strengthening alignment across all of our programs. That does not mean making every team the same. It means ensuring that every studentathlete has an experience rooted in Bellarmine’s mission and values. That includes investing in coach formation, strengthening communication with families, supporting student well-being and continuing to build a culture where athletics is about more than performance. It is about formation. I am especially excited about partnering with coaches, families, alumni and the broader Bellarmine community to make the student-athlete experience as strong as it can be.

How do you see athletics contributing to the Jesuit mission of forming the whole person, or cura personalis? Athletics contributes beautifully to cura personalis because it touches the whole student: mind, body, spirit, character and relationships. Students learn how to respond to success. They learn how to get knocked down, then get coached to be ready for their next challenge. They learn how to work hard, sacrifice for others, manage pressure, accept feedback, lead with humility and persevere through difficulty.

What role does athletics play in developing leaders? Athletics gives students daily opportunities to practice leadership. Leadership is not only about being a captain or scoring the most points. It is about showing up prepared, encouraging a teammate, responding well to adversity, holding yourself accountable and putting the team before yourself. At Bellarmine, we want student-athletes to understand that leadership is ultimately about service.

In the short term, that At a Jesuit school, athletics should service happens on their never be only about winning. It teams, in their classrooms should be about helping young and in their families. people grow into the people God Over time, it extends into is calling them to become. the wider world.

What does it mean to be a student-athlete at a Jesuit school today?

goal is not simply to become a better athlete, but to become a better person who leads, serves, reflects and contributes to the common good.

It means pursuing excellence with purpose. It means competing with integrity. It means respecting teammates, opponents, coaches, officials and yourself.

How do you plan to support studentathletes?

Most importantly, it means understanding that athletics is part of your formation. The

Supporting studentathletes begins with relationships. Students need to know that the adults around them care about them as people, not only as athletes.

We will continue to emphasize safe, healthy and developmentally appropriate athletic environments while working closely with coaches, trainers, school leaders, counselors, campus ministry and families. Athletics challenges students, but they should also help build confidence, resilience, balance and a strong sense of belonging.

How will students at all levels have meaningful athletic experiences? Every student-athlete matters. Varsity programs are

important, but so are junior varsity teams, developmental programs, first-time athletes and students who may never receive public recognition. A meaningful athletic experience is one where students feel known, coached, challenged and valued. We want every level of every program to reflect Bellarmine’s mission and provide students with opportunities to grow.

How will you support coach development and formation? I believe coaches are among the most important formation leaders in a school. They spend significant time with students during moments of challenge, growth and vulnerability. Supporting coaches means giving them clarity, resources, encouragement and formation. We want to help coaches grow not only in strategy and skill development, but also in leadership, communication, student formation and mission alignment.

What kind of culture do you hope every athletic team embodies? I hope every Bellarmine team embodies trust, accountability, joy, humility and care for one another. I want our teams to compete with intensity and character.

Bellarmine had a lasting impact on my life. Fr. Jerry continues to influence my thinking and my motivation to serve students. Returning now, I feel a deep Returning now to support these responsibility to provide that same incredible young people, coaches, kind of formation for today’s families and programs is both students. humbling and energizing.

What changes have you observed in the school and athletic landscape since you graduated?

I want students to feel both the pride and responsibility of representing Bellarmine through the way they treat people, respond The world students are growing to adversity and grow together. up in today is very different. The pressures are different, The phrase “BeBellarmine: communication is faster and One Team, One Mission, One Family” captures that vision well. expectations are higher.

How has your experience as a student here shaped your leadership approach? Bellarmine shaped me in ways I probably did not fully understand at the time. As a student, I was challenged by teachers, coaches, Jesuits and classmates who expected me to grow. I learned the importance of discipline, service, reflection, relationships and responsibility. Those lessons stayed with me

throughout my life in the military, in education, in leadership and in mentoring young people.

Athletics has also changed. There is more specialization, more external pressure and more attention on performance. That makes Bellarmine’s mission even more important. We have an opportunity to offer something deeper: an athletic experience grounded in purpose, community, balance and care for the whole person.

What role can alumni play in mentoring and supporting our athletic programs? Alumni play a powerful role. I believe in the “Long Blue Line” that connects Bellarmine graduates across generations. Alumni understand firsthand how athletics helped shape their lives. They can mentor students, support coaches, share leadership experiences and help current students see that the lessons learned through athletics extend far beyond high school.

How can athletics help build a stronger sense of school community and pride?

What excites you most about Athletics is a unifier. It is the front returning to your alma mater porch to all the goodness inside Bellarmine. in this role? The opportunity to give back to a place that gave so much to me.

Games, matches, meets and competitions create shared experiences where students,

families, faculty, alumni and friends come together around something larger than themselves. When athletics is healthy and mission-centered, it strengthens school spirit, belonging and pride throughout the community.

If students, parents, coaches and alumni were describing the athletic program five years from now, what would you hope they would say? I would hope they would say that Bellarmine athletics formed students well. I would hope students would say they felt known, challenged, supported and proud to represent Bellarmine. I would hope parents would say they trusted the experience and felt informed and connected. I would hope coaches would say they felt supported, valued and clear about the mission. And I would hope alumni would say, “That still feels like Bellarmine.” Most of all, I would hope people would say that we raised leaders, built culture and competed with purpose, and that we did it together as one team, one mission and one family. And I hope they proudly cheer, “Go Lions.”

Bellarmine Athletics and Activities celebrated another outstanding year, earning league titles, district championships and state tournament appearances.

Boys Tennis Sends Three to State

Boys Basketball Takes Third at State

Baseball and Fastpitch Finish Strong

The Lions capped an incredible 2025-26 season with a third-place finish at the WIAA 3A State Tournament. Bellarmine finished the year with a 24-4 record, with a remarkable 21-game winning streak.

Baseball narrowly missed a state tournament berth after a strong postseason run, while the young fastpitch team gained valuable experience and will return with momentum for next season.

Bellarmine qualified three entries for the WIAA State Tournament. Several key contributors will return for another strong season in 2026-27.

Model UN’s Award-Winning Season

Girls Tennis Finishes Second at State Bellarmine captured the district championship and finished second at the WIAA State Tournament. Anya Moravek B’26 placed second individually, while Chloe Lee B’27 finished fourth.

Wrestling Sends School-Record 12 to State Bellarmine wrestling celebrated a historic season by sending a school-record 12 wrestlers to the WIAA Mat Classic, the largest group of state qualifiers in program history.

Track and Field Qualifies 22 to State The Bellarmine girls team finished second at the district championships, while the Lions qualified 19 individual athletes and three relay teams for the WIAA State Championships.

Golf Teams Shine at State The girls team placed fifth at the WIAA State Championships, highlighted by Sharon Yoon B’27’s top-20 finish and Addie Scheuffele B’27’s hole-in-one. The boys team also earned a spot at state, and its entire roster will return next season.

Boys Soccer Returns to State The Lions advanced to the WIAA State Tournament after a third-place finish at the district tournament, before falling in a first-round penalty shootout.

Bellarmine’s Model UN team celebrated a wonderful season, culminating with being honored with the Award of Merit at their conference in New York City.

Girls Soccer Reaches District Tournament The Lady Lions finished third in the competitive Puget Sound League Narrows Division and advanced to the district tournament, where they won their opening game before narrowly missing a berth in the WIAA State Tournament.

Lacrosse Teams Reach State Both Bellarmine lacrosse teams qualified for the WIAA State Tournament, finishing among Washington’s top-16 programs.

Cross Country Competes at State The boys team finished 10th at the WIAA State Championships, while the girls placed 17th. Luke Saalfield B’27 finished 14th individually, and Marie Wiegman B’26 placed 20th.

Girls Basketball Finishes Second in PSL Narrows Division The Lions finished second in the Puget Sound League Narrows Division and narrowly missed the WIAA State Tournament by one game.

Cheer Returns to State Bellarmine’s cheer team qualified for the 2025-26 WIAA State Cheerleading Championships, marking the program’s first state appearance in four years.

Robotics Finishes Sixth Bellarmine’s FIRST Robotics team, Team 360 “The Revolution,” finished their 2026 season with an overall record of 40-20-0. As one of the top teams in the Pacific Northwest district, they earned 252 points to rank #6, ultimately capping off their impressive run by qualifying for and competing at the FIRST Championship.

DECA Places Third at State Career Development Conference Caden Conley B’27, Ishaan Khanuja B’27 and Isaac Opoku B’27 placed third in the Start-up Business Plan event at the DECA State Career Development Conference, where they competed against more than 6,000 students from across Washington.

Drama Hosts Amazing Fall and Spring Performances Our Bellarmine Drama Department put on two excellent shows - Alice in Wonderland in the Fall, and Urinetown in the Spring.

Knowledge Bowl Takes Sixth at State Bellarmine’s Knowledge Bowl placed 6th at the state competition for 3A.

LOST LIONS Help us find and reconnect with every LION

MOVED? NEW EMAIL? LET US KNOW! Wherever life has taken you, Bellarmine wants to stay connected! If your address, email or phone number has changed, take a moment to update your information so you don’t miss invitations to reunions, events and activities throughout the year. bellarmineprep.org/keep-in-touch

LIONS

LEADING

LIONS

FROM STUDENT TO COACH Every season, Bellarmine coaches can be found running practices, calling plays and encouraging student-athletes to become the best versions of themselves. What many students may not realize is that several of those coaches once stood in their shoes.

Seven Bellarmine alumni return to the Hill to coach the next generation of studentathletes.

Conor Unruh B’10, Sparky Ainslie B’02, Derek Woodworth B’06, Trielle Alstead B’18, Steve George B’85, Morgann Crook B’91 and Kim Butler B’01 all returned to Bellarmine to coach. They once sat in the same classrooms, competed on the same fields and learned from coaches who shaped the people they would become. Today, they are carrying that legacy forward. In this issue, seven alumni coaches reflect on what it means to return to the Hill and invest in the next generation of Lions.

They reflect on the lessons they learned, the mentors Conor Unruh B’10 who shaped them and what Head Baseball Coach it means to give back to the Conor Unruh B’10 has spent much of his adult life at community that helped form Bellarmine. A former football and baseball player who was also active in them. Campus Ministry during his time at Bellarmine as a student, Unruh returned to campus in his early 20s to help coach baseball. That opportunity sparked a passion for mentoring students and ultimately inspired him to become a teacher. Today, he is entering his third season as Bellarmine’s head baseball coach and fifth year as a teacher at his alma mater.

Derek Woodworth B’06 playing soccer as a Bellarmine student

“I am in awe of how blessed I am to be in a position where I get to coach the game I love, and instill Jesuit values into the next generation of players and students,” Unruh said.

Learning from Those Who Came Before Unruh credits several Bellarmine coaches with shaping not only his athletic career, but also his approach to coaching. Longtime former Bellarmine baseball coach Rick Barnhart taught him to think more strategically about the game, an approach he now shares with his own players. Former Bellarmine football coach Tom Larsen B’74 emphasized the importance of pursuing a common goal as a team, while former Bellarmine football coach Brian Jensen modeled the value of paying attention to details and committing to continual growth. Looking back, Unruh said Bellarmine’s “More Than Winning” philosophy had the greatest influence on him.“It helped me focus on improving day to day instead of comparing myself to my peers,” he said. “It taught me that competition is more than just scheme and strategy. It’s a willingness to play hard for the people around you.”

More Than Wins and Losses For Unruh, the most meaningful part of coaching at Bellarmine is not found on the scoreboard. “From the students to the parents to my colleagues and alumni, I do not take for granted how unique and special this community is,” he said. That sense of community shapes the values he hopes his players carry beyond high school. He wants them to embrace selflessness, perseverance, sacrifice and the Jesuit ideal of magis – the call to strive for something greater.

Looking Back and Looking Ahead If he could offer one piece of advice to his younger self, it would be simple. “Be present and enjoy the moment,” Unruh said. “Life goes by quickly, and it is important to stop and enjoy the little moments.” He hopes every student-athlete leaves Bellarmine with an even more important lesson. “That no matter what type of student or athlete you are, you are loved.” When asked to describe Bellarmine in one word, Unruh didn’t hesitate. “Special.” His message to fellow alumni is equally straightforward. “Thank you for your support and willingness to pour into the next generation of Lions.”

Sparky Ainslie B’02 Head Boys and Girls Wrestling Coach

Sparky Ainslie B’02 knows firsthand how athletics can shape your life.

“The importance of community and the impact it can have on a person’s educational journey.”

As a Bellarmine student, he competed in wrestling, football and baseball before discovering a calling that extended beyond competition.

Coaching the Whole Person

Today, he is entering his eighth season as Bellarmine’s head boys and girls wrestling coach, helping studentathletes grow both on and off the mat.

“My coaching philosophy is rooted in Jesuit education and coaching the whole person, not just the sport,” Ainslie said. “Wrestling and its lessons tie directly into Bellarmine’s mission.”

“What’s most meaningful to me is the opportunity to give back to a community that gave so much to me,” Ainslie said. His return to Bellarmine came shortly after college, when he was invited to help coach wrestling. “I was drawn to help others fall in love with the sport of wrestling,” he said.

Lessons That Last Ainslie credits both teachers and coaches with influencing the educator and coach he has become. Ainslie currently teaches middle school at St. Patrick Catholic School in Tacoma. Teachers Mary Harrison, Tom Larsen B’74 and Megan Hussey Matthew modeled vocation, passion and care for students. Wrestling coaches Dan Staab, Bill Dodge, Kevin Kalal and Dave Grisaffi inspired him with their commitment to the sport and to the young people they coached. “Their guidance, dedication and love of the sport was infectious and inspiring,” Ainslie said. “They helped plant the seed of my love of coaching and teaching our athletes in the Jesuit tradition.”

Looking back, Ainslie said one lesson has remained with him more than any other.

That lesson continues to shape his philosophy today.

His goal is not simply to develop successful wrestlers. He hopes to help form young men and women of character who work hard, persevere through adversity and live lives modeled after Christ. Watching that growth is what keeps him coming back each season. “I enjoy getting to see the world through their eyes and watching them grow through the lessons that wrestling provides,” he said. “It’s rewarding to see how they carry those lessons into their own lives.”

Full Circle Several moments stand out during Ainslie’s coaching career. Building the wrestling program as head coach fulfilled a longtime dream. Coaching his first wrestler at the state tournament, Stuart Krumins B’19, marked his first milestone, and last season’s school-record 12 state qualifiers remains one of his proudest accomplishments. Still, Ainslie says Bellarmine’s mission remains the constant.

Facilities have improved and technology has changed since he graduated, but the school’s commitment to educating the whole person remains as strong as ever. “I still get a charge from singing the fight song and running out under the spotlight before home matches,” he said. “Those memories stretch all the way back to our league championship in 2002.”

Advice for the Next Generation If he could speak to his younger self, Ainslie would offer practical advice. “Remember that you are a student first and an athlete second. You can participate in clubs and athletics at the same time.” His hope for every wrestler is that Bellarmine always feels like home. “Our program’s goal is that our wrestlers feel like Bellarmine and our wrestling program will always be a second home to them,” he said. “That they truly know they are always welcome and that they belong.” When asked to describe Bellarmine in one word, Ainslie answered without hesitation, “Family.”

Derek Woodworth B’06 Head Girls Soccer Coach

Derek Woodworth B’06 packed a lot into his four years at Bellarmine. As a student, he played soccer and tennis, ran cross country, served on ASB, performed in the band as a bass clarinet player, participated in Student Leadershp and even qualified for the state bowling tournament. Today, he is entering his third season as Bellarmine’s head girls soccer coach, a role he once hoped to hold. “I told myself 10 years ago that if there was ever an opportunity to coach at Bellarmine, it would be an absolute dream job,” Woodworth said. That opportunity came after he learned about the opening during a Bellarmine Finance Committee meeting. Although he had never coached girls soccer before, he decided to take a chance.

“Our boys team was successful because we didn’t care what grade our teammates were in, what club team they played for or what social circles they were part of,” Woodworth said. “Top to bottom, we lifted each other up. Not only did it create lifelong friendships, it absolutely helped us win games.”

“At the very least, it’ll prepare me for fatherhood,” he joked. “The rest is history. I absolutely adore coaching the girls and love having strong women coaches alongside me who make me better every day.”

Coaching at Home

Lessons That Still Matter

“The girls have a way of making me feel so young and so old at the same time,” he said with a laugh. “I’m always behind on the newest TikTok trend or saying. I feel like a dinosaur.” He is quick to praise today’s student-athletes.

Woodworth credits former coaches Joey Waters and Steve Seiwerath B’93 for shaping his approach to leadership, but he says his greatest influence came from the Class of 2003 during his freshman year. “From day one, the seniors took me under their wing and helped bring out my self-confidence,” he said. “That selfless, team-first mentality influenced the way I coach.” Today, he works to create the same culture for his players.

Unlike some coaches who can point to one defining moment, Woodworth said returning to Bellarmine feels like a full-circle experience every day.

“They’re way more driven than I was,” he said. “Everyone seems to be involved in co-curriculars and already thinking about their careers. It’s fascinating to hear about their goals.” He has also seen Bellarmine evolve. Woodworth remembers Memorial Field before its renovation. “So many good memories on that grass,” he

said. “But the first heavy rain would turn it into a mud pit.”

“Bellarmine students strive for growth and excellence,” she said. “They are constantly asking how to improve, and it is so fun to spend as much time with them as I do.”

He is especially impressed by the school’s expanded strength and conditioning program.

Coming Full Circle

“If we’d had that 20 years ago, I would have told myself to participate,” he said. “It’s so cool seeing the confidence being built in these young athletes.”

For Alstead, the full-circle moment arrives every season on Parent Night. “It’s a wonderful chance to share my coaching journey and how my passion for the team has grown over the seasons,” she said.

Looking Ahead Woodworth hopes today’s alumni never lose their connection to Bellarmine. “For those who have been detached since graduation, don’t be afraid to jump back into the Bellarmine community,” he said. “Come to a game, the Gala or the Crab Feed. You won’t be disappointed.” If he could describe Bellarmine in one word, his answer would be simple, “Welcoming.”

Trielle Alstead B’18

of holistic growth, focusing on my whole person rather than just the individual pieces that contributed to who I was,” she said.

Head Girls Lacrosse Coach

Coaching with Grace

For Trielle Alstead B’18, returning to Bellarmine began with a simple invitation. Fresh out of college, she received a call from the varsity lacrosse coach asking if she and a friend would volunteer with the program.

While many coaches point to mentors who influenced them, Alstead says her greatest teachers are the players she coaches.

“I had no clue what I was getting myself into,” Alstead said. “I thought it would just be a fun way to get out of the office.” Instead, stepping back onto the field reignited her love for the sport and for Bellarmine. “Stepping out on that field again sparked something in me,” she said. “It renewed my passion for lacrosse and gave me the chance to help steward an environment that I once benefited from as a student.” Now entering her fourth season as Bellarmine’s head girls lacrosse coach (co-coaching with Ed Stewart), Alstead sees coaching as an extension of the formation she received as a student. “Bellarmine ingrained in me the importance

“The girls that I coach have the biggest impact on me year to year,” she said. “They are the main reason I strive to be better each practice.” That perspective shapes her coaching philosophy. “My coaching philosophy is well-rounded and full of grace,” she said. “My goal is to create an environment where students are excited to be, because even when things are stressful, providing them with a space where they are able to focus on a different part of who they are is so crucial.” She hopes her players leave Bellarmine with resilience, confidence rooted in preparation rather than perfection, a heart for service and a lasting sense of joy.

She has also gained a new appreciation for Bellarmine after returning as an employee. “The strength of the community surprised me,” Alstead said. “Once I received my school email address and joined the employee email chain, I saw how collaborative the staff is and how much everyone cares for the students. It highlights how special this school is.” She believes today’s students face more opportunities and greater pressures than when she graduated, but she sees one thing that has remained unchanged. “The school just keeps getting better,” she said. “The campus has grown through its activities and athletics, but its commitment to each student and their focus on community remains timeless.”

A Place to Come Home To One tradition continues to connect Alstead to her own days as a student-athlete. Before every game, the team gathers for the same pregame cheer she participated in as a player. “Our coach would yell, ‘St. Robert Bellarmine,’ and the rest of the team would respond, ‘Pray for us. Go Big Blue!’” she said. “Getting to chant the same thing years later before every game has created a truly memorable moment.” If she could speak to her younger self, her advice would be simple.

coach.” She stepped into the role when the opportunity arose and quickly discovered a passion for mentoring student-athletes.

“Be patient with yourself, and pay attention to the little moments. That’s often where the seeds of growth sprout.”

“I love working with teenagers,” she said. “Coaching high school boys brings plenty of laughter along with meaningful leadership moments.”

Her hope for every player is equally straightforward. “That they know and remember how loved they are, and that they will always have a home at Bellarmine.”

A former member of the school’s four-time state championship girls tennis team, Crook returned to Tacoma after spending much of her adult life in King County. Reconnecting with the local tennis community eventually led her back to the Hill.

When asked to describe Bellarmine in one word, Alstead answered, “Family.” Her message to fellow alumni is an invitation.

Coaching for Life

“Come back to Bellarmine in whatever capacity that may be. As a coach, teacher, volunteer or simply a visitor or spectator. It is an undeniably incredible place.”

Crook’s coaching philosophy extends well beyond wins and losses.

Steve George B’85 Head Boys Golf Coach

Steve George B’85 has spent more than three decades shaping Bellarmine student-athletes. A standout golfer during his own time at Bellarmine, George returned to the Hill and has built one of the state’s most successful golf programs. Over 34 years as head coach, he has guided the Lions to 10 state championships, adding to the title he won as a student-athlete in 1985.

Building Champions On and Off the Course A graduate of Oregon State University, George has built his coaching philosophy around confidence, character and sportsmanship. “I believe success is measured not only by performance, but also by the way studentathletes carry themselves on and off the course,” George said.

A Lasting Connection to Bellarmine Today, George also serves as an assistant coach for the Bellarmine girls basketball program.

His connection to Bellarmine extends well beyond athletics. He and his wife, Wendy, are the parents of three Bellarmine graduates: Madeleine B’12, Tessa B’16 and Emma B’22.

Morgann Crook B’91 Head Boys Tennis Coach

She encourages players to compete with intensity while remembering to enjoy the game. She believes confidence and learning to embrace uncertainty are among the most valuable lessons tennis can teach, especially in a sport where hours of competition can be decided by only a few points. Above all, she hopes her players continue playing tennis long after graduation. “My goal is for them to develop a genuine love of the game and continue sharing it with friends and family throughout their lives.”

Morgann Crook B’91 believes tennis is more than a sport. It is a lifelong pursuit that teaches resilience, confidence and adaptability. Now in her third season as Bellarmine’s head boys tennis coach, Crook has guided the Lions to consistent success. The program has finished first or second in the league and district standings each year under her leadership, with multiple studentathletes advancing to the state tournament each season. In 2026, Bellarmine qualified five players and one alternate for the state tournament.

An Unexpected Path Crook describes herself as an “accidental

Giving Back to the Game A graduate of Washington State University with a degree in communications, Crook remains active in the Tacoma tennis community. She serves on the Board of Trustees for the Tacoma Lawn Tennis Club, helps organize the Northwest’s largest prize-money open tennis tournament and continues to play competitively herself.

She also coached Bellarmine track and field, working with sprinters and high jumpers from 2015 to 2021. Under Butler’s leadership, the Lions have captured a district championship, earned a third-place finish at the state tournament and established a culture built on excellence, trust and teamwork. She was named Coach of the Year in 2019.

For Crook, coaching at Bellarmine is an opportunity to give back to the community that first introduced her to the lifelong joy of tennis.

Leading Through Relationships

Kim Butler B’01

Her guiding principle, “Play hard, smart and together,” shapes every aspect of the program. She emphasizes basketball IQ, socialemotional growth and the overall well-being of her student-athletes, believing that strong teams are built on accountability, trust and shared purpose.

Head Girls Basketball Coach Kim Butler B’01 knows what it means to compete at the highest level. A Bellarmine alumna and 2012 Olympian, Butler returned to the Hill to coach the next generation of Lions. After serving as an assistant coach from 2013 to 2017, she became the head coach in 2017 before stepping away for graduate school in 2021 and returning to the program in 2025.

Butler’s coaching philosophy begins with relationships.

More than wins and losses, Butler hopes her players leave Bellarmine with confidence, resilience and a commitment to leading with integrity. She challenges every player to become a supportive teammate and to live out the Jesuit call to be women for others.

Coming Home Coaching at Bellarmine is deeply personal for Butler. The school played a formative role in her own life, and returning as a coach has given her the opportunity to invest in the same community that helped shape her. As both a former Bellarmine student-athlete and an Olympian, Butler understands the challenges and opportunities her players face. She strives to be a mentor who helps young women grow not only as basketball players, but also as leaders.

A Lifetime in the Game

After graduating from Bellarmine, Butler played collegiate basketball at Santa Clara

University before transferring to Oregon State University. She went on to play professionally in Europe for seven years, competing in multiple countries before realizing a lifelong dream by representing Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games. Today, Butler continues to call Tacoma home and remains committed to helping Bellarmine student-athletes discover the confidence, discipline and teamwork that have defined her own journey.

LIONS

LEAD THE WAY

The tradition of alumni returning to lead Lion Athletics extends far beyond Bellarmine’s head coaches. More than two dozen Bellarmine graduates currently serve as assistant or volunteer coaches across the school’s athletic programs, helping shape the next generation of Lions.

FOOTBALL

BOYS SOCCER

GIRLS FLAG FOOTBALL

GIRLS SOCCER

Brandon Maul B’03 Jalen Robinson-McClure B’15

Jalen Robinson-McClure B’15

BASEBALL

Taylo Derouin B’18 Jimmy George B’20 Tony Rehberger B’01 Beau Baldassin B’09

BOYS BASKETBALL Josh Fernandez B’02 George Jackson B’16 Isaac Wojtanowicz B’16

GIRLS BASKETBALL Cherokee Ainslie B’01 Maggie Smith B’18 Steve George B’85

Jim Rink B’80 Christian Trandum B’92

Kelsey West B’05 Hanna Lynch B’20

GIRLS LACROSSE Sydney Bland B’24 Ry Stewart B’24

FASTPITCH

Erica Grenlund B’16 Ashlynn Ota B’16

TRACK & FIELD

Thomas Larsen B’74 Nicole O’Loughlin B’08 Jalen Robinson-McClure B’15

CROSS COUNTRY Nicole O’Loughlin B’08

BOYS TENNIS

Krista Philbrick B’01

WRESTLING

Armand Brinlee B’23 Chris Seher B’91

VOLLEYBALL

Megan Dempsey B’92 Katy DeGroot B’13 Ally Downing B’21 Mary Meines B’21 Mary Rink B’88

The list reflects Bellarmine alumni serving as assistant or volunteer coaches as of July 2026.

ellarmine Preparatory School is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Rose, MBA, CFRE, CAP, as the new Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Community Engagement. Rose brings more than 20 years of leadership experience through building partnerships, strengthening communities and advancing the missions of education-focused organizations. Raised by two school teachers, she developed an early appreciation for the transformative power of education and a deep belief in preparing young people for lives of service and leadership. Most recently, she served as Director of Development at Washington STEM, where she worked with partners across philanthropy, industry, education and government to support initiatives that expand access to high-quality STEM education and career pathways for students across Washington state. Prior to Washington STEM, Rose served as Director of Development and Communications at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma, where she led advancement, communications and community engagement efforts while helping strengthen connections among families, alumni and supporters of the school’s mission. Rose previously held several advancement leadership roles at Pacific Lutheran University, including Executive Director of

LAURA ROSE BELLARMINE’S NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Alumni & Constituent Engagement. In these roles, she helped cultivate meaningful relationships with alumni, donors and community partners while supporting the university’s long-term vision. A Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), Rose holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and a Master of Business Administration from Pacific Lutheran University. She is an active leader in the philanthropic community, having served as board member and past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals South Sound Chapter. As Vice President of Institutional Advancement, Rose oversees development, alumni engagement and advancement strategy, while partnering closely with school leadership, the Board of Directors and the broader Bellarmine community to strengthen philanthropic support and advance the school’s long-term vision. Bellarmine welcomes Laura Rose and the experience, vision and leadership she brings as we continue advancing our mission of forming young men and women who live with faith, serve others and lead with purpose.

BELLARMINE GALA 2026

What an unforgettable evening! Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Gala an extraordinary success. Together, we raised an astounding $1.3 million, an incredible achievement that will open doors and create transformative opportunities for our future Lions. The celebration brought together guests, sponsors, volunteers and community partners, all united in support of Catholic, Jesuit education. It was a special night filled with generosity, connection and a shared commitment to our mission. We look forward to celebrating with you again at next year’s 36th Annual Gala on Saturday, February 27, 2027!

GROWING IN TRADITION, EMPOWERING POSSIBILITIES

Bellarmine’s Lion Fund makes a Jesuit education possible for every student while strengthening the transformative programs, experiences and opportunities that define the Bellarmine experience. Each day, Bellarmine students walk onto campus carrying their own hopes for the future. Many also carry with them something less visible: the generosity of alumni, parents, grandparents and friends who believe in the mission of Jesuit education. That generosity is the Lion Fund. Formerly known as the Annual Fund, the Lion Fund was renamed this year to better reflect the Bellarmine community. While the name has changed, its purpose remains to provide resources that support every student and strengthen all aspects of life on the Hill. Unlike gifts designated for a specific project, the Lion Fund allows Bellarmine to respond to its greatest needs. It supports tuition assistance, academic and co-curricular programs, athletics, the arts, campus ministry, technology and the ongoing care of the historic campus that has served generations of Lions since 1928. Every gift to the Lion Fund touches every student. The Lion Fund is especially critical because tuition does not cover the full cost of a Bellarmine education. That difference is intentional. Bellarmine’s commitment to accessibility means students are admitted based on their potential, not their family’s financial circumstances. Today, more than 43 percent of Bellarmine students receive tuition assistance. For many families, that support makes the difference between attending Bellarmine and not. “Your kindness has allowed us to have access to all sorts of amazing things, like many co-curricular programs, a loving community and a great education,” said Arcel Moya B’25. “These things have made a huge difference in our learning experience and have helped us dream big and strive for success.” This year, the Lion Fund also plays a central role in Bellarmine’s Lion Legacy campaign, which honors retiring and longtime faculty and staff members by supporting the programs that matter most to them.

Since joining Bellarmine in 1984, Davis served as a teacher, department chair, dean of students, director of student activities, ASB moderator, coach, interim president and, for the past 12 years, principal. Throughout each role, her focus has remained the same, to ensure every student felt known, valued and supported.

Among those being recognized is Principal Cindy Davis, whose 42 years of service have shaped generations of Bellarmine students.

“Bellarmine’s mission is about accessibility,” Davis said. “It’s about knowing who we are and being a school that is welcoming to all.”

In recognition of that commitment, Davis selected the Lion Fund for Tuition Assistance as her Lion Legacy designation. “The generosity of our community provides access to an institution designed to change hearts and minds,” she said, “so our students can go out and lead and serve as Jesus intended.” Members of the Bellarmine community are invited to honor Davis’s legacy by making a gift to the Lion Fund in her name. These contributions will help future generations of students experience the same opportunities that have defined Bellarmine for nearly a century. Gifts to the Lion Fund can be made online at bellarmineprep.org/donate, through stock transfers, employer matching gift programs or the Bellarmine Partners business giving program. For more information, contact Haley Parks-Pavolka, Advancement Officer, at (253) 761-3522 or parksh@ bellarmineprep.org. Every gift, regardless of size, helps ensure that Bellarmine continues to form young men and women of competence, conscience, compassion and commitment. It is an investment not only in today’s students, but in generations of Lions still to come.

EVERY GIFT SUPPORTS A

LION

LION LEGACIES

This year, alongside Principal Cindy Davis, we say farewell to faculty members Dave DeGroot and Ginny White, whose dedication has left a lasting impact on Bellarmine. Through their commitment to forming the whole person, they inspired generations of Lions through leadership, academics, retreat ministry, research, global learning and service.

DAVE DEGROOT HONORING 26 YEARS OF SERVICE

through hands-on research, SCUBA fieldwork in Puget Sound and scientific expeditions to Hawaii. Named Bellarmine’s E. Kelley Teacher of the Year in 2022, DeGroot has helped countless students discover confidence in themselves and a passion for scientific inquiry. For more than 25 years, Dave DeGroot has inspired Bellarmine students to approach science with curiosity and purpose. As a beloved chemistry and biology teacher and Director of the Marine Chemistry Program, he has taken learning beyond the classroom

“I hope students remember my classroom as a place where it was safe to struggle, to grow and to be proud of the work they put into it,” DeGroot said. “If they carry forward the sense that someone believed in them and walked beside them, then that is the legacy that matters most to me.”

GINNY WHITE

Throughout his career, DeGroot has embodied the Jesuit commitment to forming the whole person, encouraging students to ask meaningful questions, persevere through challenges and care for our common home. He and his wife, Jody B’83, Bellarmine’s Vice Principal for Formation and Professional Development, have shared a lifelong commitment to Bellarmine. You are invited to honor DeGroot’s legacy with a gift to the Marine Chemistry Program. Your support will help future Lions pursue hands-on research, field experiences and opportunities for discovery inspired by DeGroot’s commitment to stewardship and service.

HONORING 31 YEARS OF SERVICE For 31 years, Ginny White has shared her love of French language and culture with generations of Lions, and inspired students to explore new countries. Since joining the faculty in 1995, she has taught all levels of French (and one year of Russian) while also coordinating the school’s French language immersion trips. White’s passion for French began when she was 14, and deepened when she traveled to France two years later with her classmates, an experience that inspired a lifelong appreciation for language, travel and cultural connection. During her time at Bellarmine, she especially loved watching students grow in confidence and conscience through their own immersion experiences abroad. “Students learn so much about themselves and where they come from, as well as about another culture through our

trips. They often realize we have so many things in common, especially our core values,” White shared. Beyond the classroom, White found deep meaning and inspiration in Bellarmine’s Jesuit mission of service and care for others. “I’m so grateful to Jennifer O’Loughlin for asking me if I would like to be part of Encounter Crew. There is so much vulnerability and joy on display during Encounter.” Her work on Encounter and Pilgrimage allowed her to see students grow in their faith and relationships with others. She expresses deep gratitude to her colleagues and the Bellarmine community for their shared mission and for making her career rewarding. She has a special love for her World Language colleagues. “Whether we would put it this way or not, all of us know that part of our mission is promoting a more peaceful and just world.”

White also cherished sharing her Bellarmine experience with her two daughters, who are both Bellarmine graduates. As she prepares for retirement, White says she will miss the students most, their energy, humor and the relationships built over years together in the French program. She hopes students remember not only what they learned in class, but also the friendships they formed along the way. “You are the most amazing group of people, faculty, staff, and students,” she said. “I will miss you.”

Visit https://www.bellarmineprep.org/lion-legacy or scan the QR code for more information on DeGroot, White and how to support Marine Chemistry and international language immersion experiences.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING: JAZZ ETTER NAMED 2026 EXEMPLARY TEACHER stood out among an exceptional number of nominees, receiving nearly half of all submissions.

Bellarmine is pleased to honor science teacher Jazz Etter with the 2026 Elizabeth Kelley Exemplary Teacher Award. This award is presented annually to a faculty member who exemplifies Jesuit values through excellence in teaching, service, leadership and a deep commitment to caring for students both inside and outside the classroom. This year, Ms. Etter

Students consistently described her classroom as more than just a place to learn, but as a place where they feel welcomed, supported and valued. Teaching Physics, AP Physics, and Chemistry, Ms. Etter has a gift for making challenging subjects approachable and engaging while inspiring students to rediscover the joy of learning. Students praised her compassion, humor, authenticity and unwavering support, particularly for those who may be struggling. “Ms. Etter balances teaching with meaningful connection, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and growing with confidence,” the selection committee shared. Ms. Etter’s influence extends far beyond the classroom through her involvement

with Capstone, Marine Chemistry, Investment Club, the Ignatian Global Scholars program and student retreats. Her commitment to students is evident in the steady stream of students who fill her classroom before school, during lunch, and after school, not simply for academic help but because of the welcoming community she has created. One student described Etter as “the teacher we all dreamed of having as kids,” while another shared that “she made learning fun again.” At the heart of her teaching is cura personalis, the Jesuit call to care for the whole person. Through her teaching and mentorship, she has helped cultivate a culture of kindness, inclusion, curiosity and compassion across the Bellarmine campus. It is with great pride and gratitude that Bellarmine honors Ms. Etter as the 2026 recipient.

FROM LEARNING TO LEADING: JAKE DUSEK B’09 RECEIVES THE 2026 DE THOMAS MEMORIAL AWARD

Bellarmine is proud to honor Jake Dusek B’09 as the recipient of the 2026 De Thomas Memorial Award. The De Thomas Memorial Award honors the memory of De Thomas, who served in Bellarmine’s school office during the 1970s. Established by her family following her passing, the award recognizes a member of the Bellarmine community whose service, dedication and generosity extend far beyond expectations. Few embody that spirit more fully than Dusek, whose commitment to serving Bellarmine’s students has spanned more than a decade.

the challenges of competitive robotics while fostering a culture grounded in collaboration, innovation, perseverance and excellence. His mentorship has helped the program achieve remarkable success, including multiple appearances at the FIRST Robotics World Championship.

A former member of Bellarmine’s FIRST Robotics team, Dusek returned to campus as a mentor and has since dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to helping students discover what they are capable of building, creating and accomplishing. Drawing on his expertise in engineering, fabrication and CAD design, he has guided generations of students through

Dusek’s journey from student to mentor reflects the enduring relationships that make the Bellarmine experience so powerful. Through his unwavering investment in students, he continues to give back to the school that helped shape him. Bellarmine is grateful to honor him as the 2026 recipient.

Beyond the technical expertise he brings, Dusek is widely recognized for his humility, selflessness, and countless behind-thescenes contributions that have positively impacted students and the broader Bellarmine community.

2026 ST. ROBERT BELLARMINE

AWARD

RECIPIENT MARY BYRNE B’79

At this year’s Gala, we recognized Mary Byrne B’79 for her outstanding service and commitment to Bellarmine and the community.

Byrne is a lifelong resident of Tacoma, a Bellarmine alumna and a dedicated servant leader whose professional and philanthropic efforts embody the mission of Catholic, Jesuit education. As a member of Bellarmine’s first 4-year coeducational class, she graduated in 1979 and has maintained a deep connection to the school ever since. Currently, Byrne serves as the Associate Director of Community Development and Outreach at TRA Medical Imaging. This organization includes a foundation whose mission is to enhance access to medical imaging services while promoting workforce development, mentorship and scholarship opportunities for students pursuing careers in healthcare. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to expanding access, opportunity and care within the South Sound community. As a passionate advocate for Bellarmine, Byrne has volunteered her time and leadership for decades. She has served on the PRIDE Auction Board, including roles as Board President and Auction Co-Chair. In 2011, she was honored with the Father Sneeringer Award for extraordinary service. Since 2020, she has been a familiar and trusted voice as the Emcee of the Bellarmine Gala. She also served as Gala Guild President in 2022 and continues her leadership as a member of the Gala Committee. Byrne spent six years on the Bellarmine Board of Directors and more than a decade on the Advancement Committee. Additionally, she managed the Lions Den during her sons’ time at Bellarmine. Beyond her contributions to Bellarmine, Byrne’s impact extends to the broader community. She serves as the Board President of the South Sound CARE Foundation and is an active volunteer and auction emcee for The Coffee Oasis. She has contributed her leadership and voice to organizations, including the Puyallup Tribe of Indians’ Salish Cancer Center and the Washington State Fair Foundation. Her work is rooted in a deep belief in engaging others to create meaningful change, particularly for vulnerable youth and families.

Former Bellarmine President Robert Modarelli B'82 presents the Saint Robert Bellarmine Award to Mary Byrne

Byrne spent over 30 years in the automotive industry and made history as the first female president of the Washington State Auto Dealers Association in its over more than 100-year history. She and her husband, Kevin, are proud parents of two Bellarmine graduates, James B’07 and Chase B’14. In recognition of her unwavering commitment to service, leadership and the Bellarmine mission, we are pleased to honor Mary Byrne as the recipient of the 2026 Saint Robert Bellarmine Award. The Saint Robert Bellarmine Award, the school’s highest honor, is bestowed upon individuals of distinction who have made remarkable contributions to the school and broader community–reflecting the very essence of Bellarmine’s mission. It is awarded annually at the Gala.

ST. ROBERT BELLARMINE AWARD Previous Recipients 2025 Tim Pavolka

2008 Colleen Mulligan

1993 Sr. Lois Weber, O.S.F.

1977 Bishop Francis Gleeson,

2024 Fred & Paula Bevegni

2007 Fr. William Bichsel, S.J. 1992 Jeff Buhr

2023 Jim Fish

2006 Ed Fallon

1991 Art McMahon

1976 Leo Gallagher

2022 Fr. Jerry Chapdelaine, S.J.

2005 Therese Treleven

1990 Joe Underwood

1975 Sr. Mary James Laviolette

2020 Donna & Jim Boulanger

Koelmeyer

1989 Les Cathersal

1974 Pearl Gaul

DD, S.J.

2019 Gwen White

2004 Bill Wetzler

1988 Dr. Ralph O’Connor

1973 Michael J. Tucci Sr.

2018 Mike F. and Mimi Tucci

2003 Mary Grant

1987 Michael A. and

1972 Fr. Jack Sneeringer, S.J.

2017 Al Morris

2002 Br. Kelly Cullen, O.S.F.

2016 Fr. John Fuchs, S. J.

Mary Jo Tucci

1969 A.B. Comfort

2001 Vern Harkins

1986 Sr. Joyce Cox, B.V.M.

1968 Frost Snyder

2015 Melanie Dressel

2000 Leo Hindery

1985 Sr. Norine Graves, O.S.F.

2014 Chris Gavin

1999 Alberta Canada

1984 Dr. Hugh A. Larkin

2013 Jack Peterson

1998 Ron Pemberton

1983 Sis and Scott Names

2012 Steve Anstett

1997 Fr. Dan Weber, S.J.

1982 Augie von Boecklin

2011 Cecilia Healy Herbert

1996 Mel Mackey

1980 Fr. Cornelius V. Mullen, S.J.

2010 Molly Hightower

1995 Andie Gernon

1979 Fr. Phil Land, S.J.

2009 Dick and Mary Ann

1994 Doug Dyckman

1978 John Heinrick

*no award presented in 1970, 1971, 1981, 2021

Boulanger

BUILDING COMMUNITY “Our alumni, partners, benefactors, parents, students and employees are the heart of all we do. You are what makes Bellarmine more than a school; you make us a community rooted in mission. We are so grateful for your mission hearts, your generosity, and your commitment.”

- Dr. Kelly Goodsell, President

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Regional Jesuit School President and Principal gathering. Bellarmine supports the Fulcrum Foundation at the “Celebration of Light” event. ASB Legacy Dinner: Road to the Centennial. Bellarmine World Language faculty member Plinio Gutierrez-Delgado received the St. John Baptist de La Salle Educator Excellence Award from the Fulcrum Foundation. Bellarmine students led Jesuit West presidents and principals in morning prayer. Booster President Mark Nino announces the Fr. Jerry Chapdelaine, S.J., Heart of a Lion Scholarship, honoring a graduating studentathlete who exemplifies Fr. Jerry’s character, leadership and selflessness on and off the field. Members of the Bellarmine Board attend a Jesuits West retreat. Our Board of Directors served breakfast to the Class of 2026 before their Senior Pilgrimage. Bellarmine’s record breaking 2026 Gala.

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Bellarmine faculty and student leaders attended the Jesuit Eco Summit and also visited Fr. Gene Delmore, S.J., Fr. Peter Henriot, S.J. and Fr. Fred Mayovsky, S.J., in Los Gatos, CA. Bellarmine Athletic Hall of Fame. 2026 Booster Crab Feed. Women of Impact panelists spoke on the power of sports and 50 years of co-education at Bellarmine. Jody DeGroot B’83, Todd Erwin B’80 and Courtney Schwan B’14 were inducted into the Tacoma Athletic Commission Hall of Fame. The Boulanger and O’Brien families received the inaugural Michael J. and Josephine C. Tucci Family Award, featuring a plaque created by alumna and glass artist Emily Martin B’10. Bellarmine Gala Auction dinner. Thank you to Terry B’72 and Debbie Bichsel, Taryn Naranjo and Joe B’72 and Lindsey Harkins for hosting this special event.

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ONCE A LION, ALWAYS A LION

Celebrating alumni connections all year round. Because no matter where life takes you, you are always part of the Bellarmine family.

Lion Pride runs deep.

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1964 Reunion

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Bellarmine City Visit in Seattle at Georgetown Brewery

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Bellarmine City Visit in Portland

Class of 1970 Reunion

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Bellarmine City Visit in Los Angeles

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Bellarmine City Visit in New York City

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Bellarmine Homecoming Post-Game Event

Class of 1975 Reunion

1986 Reunion

1966 Reunion

1996 Reunion

Bellarmine City Visit in Nashville Bellarmine City Visit in Seattle at Georgetown Brewery

Join us for a City Visit near you.

Visit bellarmine.org/alumni for upcoming dates and events.

A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP Honoring Two Former Board Chairs

Remembering Mike Tucci Sr. B’57 Bellarmine mourns the loss of Mike Tucci Sr. B’57, a devoted alumnus, former Board Chair and steadfast champion of Catholic education. Throughout his life, Mike generously shared his time, talent and leadership in service to Bellarmine, serving on the Board of Directors and supporting numerous committees, campaigns and initiatives. Together with his family, he helped strengthen every corner of the Bellarmine

Remembering Les Cathersal B’56 Bellarmine mourns the loss of Francis Leslie “Les” Cathersal B’56, a dedicated former Board Chair and generous supporter of the school and the greater Tacoma community. A proud Bellarmine graduate, Les remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life, sharing his time, leadership and philanthropy in service of the school’s mission.

Les was a respected business leader, community volunteer and faithful steward of the institutions he cherished. His commitment to Bellarmine and the Catholic community leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future Lions.

community, expanding opportunities for students and contributing to the growth of our campus. His enduring commitment to Bellarmine’s mission leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire and benefit generations of Lions. We remain grateful for his extraordinary service to Bellarmine.

BELLARMINE’S ROAD

TO THE

CENTENNIAL

100 Bellarmine Preparatory School has officially begun its Road to the Centennial, leading up to our 100-year celebration in 2028-2029. As we reflect on nearly a century of Jesuit education in the South Sound, we’re gathering the stories, memories and milestones that have shaped who we are.

We invite our alumni, families and community members to help us honor this legacy by sharing historical memorabilia, personal stories or information about important figures in Bellarmine’s history. Whether it’s a treasured photograph, a memorable moment or a name we shouldn’t forget—your contributions matter! If you have something to share, please email us at centennial@bellarmineprep.org.

Together, let’s celebrate the people, place and faith that have defined Bellarmine for the past 100 years—and carry that spirit into the next century!

ONCE A LION... ALWAYS A LION

HOMECOMING 2026 BELLARMINE VS MT. TAHOMA OCTOBER 2 JOIN US FOR A POST-GAME SOCIAL (21+)

JOIN US FOR ALUMNI PUB NIGHT AT E9’S TAPROOM WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25 E9 BREWING CO. AND TAPROOM

2506 Fawcett Ave.

JOIN FELLOW LIONS, FACULTY AND STAFF FOR OUR ANNUAL ALUMNI PUB NIGHT! ENJOY HOSTED APPETIZERS, RECONNECT WITH FRIENDS, AND RAISE A GLASS TO THE BELLARMINE COMMUNITY! ADDITIONAL FOOD AND BEVERAGES WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE. BELLARMINE SPIRIT WEAR IS ENCOURAGED.

21+

ADMISSIONS

OPEN HOUSE

Find your place. Walk your purpose.

OPEN HOUSE HIGHLIGHTS ✓ TOUR THE CAMPUS ✓ MEET THE FACULTY AND STAFF ✓ CONNECT WITH CURRENT STUDENTS ✓ EXPLORE AWARD-WINNING PROGRAMS ✓ LEARN ABOUT CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2026 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. VISIT: bellarmineprep.org/visit-campus

✉ admissions@bellarmineprep.org ☎ (253)-756-3878  bellarmineprep.org Follow us on social media

Bellarmine Preparatory School 2300 S. Washington Street Tacoma, WA 98405 -1304

CLASS OF 2026