September 2026
INSIDE the PRIDE Bellarmine Preparatory School | Alumni Newsletter
FEATURING: Once a Lion, Always a Lion, Anne Gintz Around Campus, Mike Chambers B’97 Lions in Action, Ron Cheatham B’92 Catholic School Teacher Corp, Seattle University Mark Your Calendar Homecoming 2026 Lion Spotlight, Jody DeGroot B’83 The World is Our Classroom From the Archives, Bellarmine Boosters Stay Connected, Rachel Ford
Once a Lion, Always a Lion
Anne Gintz, Director of Alumni & Donor Relations Dear Lions, As a new school year begins at Bellarmine, the energy on our campus is high, student-athletes are back on the fields and thespians auditioning on stage. While our current Lions settle into their classrooms - Welcome Class of 2030! - I want to officially welcome you back to another exciting year for our global alumni community. To keep you better connected to life on the hill, we are launching a brand-new Quarterly Alumni Newsletter, Inside the Pride, starting this fall! Inside the Pride will bring you campus updates, alumni spotlights, and deep dives into our rich history as we prepare for our Centennial Celebration in 2028-29. Additionally, because our calendar is packed with opportunities to gather, we will send targeted email invitations so you never miss an event in your area. Our theme for the 2026–27 school year is Rooted and Rising. This theme captures both who we are and who God is calling us to become. We are rooted in nearly a century of Catholic, Jesuit excellence, formed by the lives of those who came before us.
At the same time, we are rising with renewed purpose, embracing the opportunities before us as we prepare students to lead lives of competence, conscience and compassion in a changing world. Whether you live right here in Tacoma or are following us from across the country, you are the living legacy of Bellarmine Prep. Thank you for your continued pride, dedication, and support. Go Lions! AMDG, Anne
Around Campus: The Class of 2030 Right: Mike Chambers B’92, Principal - Click to Watch! This past year, our students reached new levels of excellence across academics, athletics, the arts and co-curricular life, demonstrating the character that defines a Jesuit education. Our commitment to serving others continues to deepen through flourishing community partnerships that reflect our belief in being both a school of community and a school for community. Students extended their learning well beyond
the classroom walls, encountering those on the margins, engaging across cultures, and responding to needs with compassion. Through these experiences, they brought our Jesuit mission to life, making a meaningful impact in our local community and around the world. The excellence of our faculty and staff remains the cornerstone of Bellarmine's success. Their extraordinary dedication to the formation of every student elevates the educational experience. Their commitment to accompaniment continues to distinguish Bellarmine as one of the premier Catholic, Jesuit schools in the region.
The mission of the Bellarmine Alumni Office is to cultivate a connected and engaged Lion community in which graduates remain lifelong members of the Bellarmine family by informing alumni through timely and meaningful updates, involving them in opportunities to support one another and give back to the school that shaped them, and inspiring the pride and connection rooted in Bellarmine's Catholic, Jesuit tradition of becoming people for and with others. We are committed to ensuring that the Bellarmine mission continues to flourish long after graduation.
Lions in Action
Ron Cheatham B’92, Director of Athletics & Activities Coach Hershel Dennis Introduction Bellarmine is excited to welcome Hershel Dennis as our new Head Football Coach and a member of our P.E. and Health faculty. A former standout running back at USC, Hershel brings an impressive background as a player, coach, strength and conditioning professional, and mentor. What excites us most, however, is the way his approach aligns with Bellarmine’s mission. Coach Hershel believes deeply in relationships, accountability, resilience, teamwork, and developing young people beyond the scoreboard. He understands that athletics provide an extraordinary environment for formation, teaching students how to respond to adversity, sacrifice for one another, lead with humility, and compete with purpose. He has already brought tremendous energy to Memorial Field, and we are excited for the Bellarmine community, including our alumni, to get to know Coach Hershel and the program he is building. Fall Athletics Overview ‘26-’27 Athletics is underway for another fall, with student-athletes competing in boys and girls cross country, football, girls soccer, boys tennis, and girls volleyball.
Mark Your Calendars Sep. 23: Track Dedication Ceremony Oct. 2: Homecoming Post-Game Social Oct 6: Community Rosary Oct. 15: Bellevue, WA City Visit Oct. 16: Denver, CO City Visit Oct. 20: Ignatian Evening Nov. 25: Alumni Pub Night
There is always something special about the beginning of the fall season: students returning to campus, teams coming together, and the energy of competition once again becoming part of the daily rhythm of Bellarmine. As we begin this year, we are also being increasingly intentional about what we want the Bellarmine athletic experience to represent. Our vision is simple: Raise Leaders. Build Culture. Compete with Purpose. Winning and competitive excellence matter, and they always will at Bellarmine, but our larger responsibility is formation. We want our student-athletes to learn teamwork, resilience, accountability, humility, and how to use their gifts in service of something larger than themselves. In that sense, athletics remain one of the places where our students learn what it means to Be Bellarmine. For our alumni, I hope there is also something familiar in all of this. Teams, coaches, uniforms, and facilities may change over the years, but the relationships created through Bellarmine athletics, with teammates, coaches, classmates, and the school itself, have a remarkable way of enduring long after the final game. As alumni, you might also be interested in knowing the broader direction we are taking with Athletics and Activities. We are thinking intentionally about the entire student experience: athletics, clubs, leadership, performing arts, Model UN, Robotics, and the many other places students find belonging and discover their gifts. The goal is not simply participation; it is creating more opportunities for students to lead, connect, take healthy risks, and contribute to the life of the school.
HOMECOMING 2026
Let’s Go Lions!
Join us for a special day celebrating your Lion Pride!
Friday, Oct. 2 8AM Mass 1:15PM Homecoming Assembly 5:30PM Pre-game Rally 7:00PM Kick-off BPS vs. Mt. Tahoma 9:00PM Alumni Post-game Social, 21+ and Class of 1971 Reunion
Catholic School Teacher Corp with Seattle University Empowering Educators: SU’s New Initiative for Catholic Schools Seattle University, in partnership with The Ferry Family Charitable Foundation, Fulcrum Foundation, and the Office for Catholic Schools, launched its inaugural Catholic Schools Teacher Corps (CSTC) program. This initiative provides funding for educators pursuing their Master of Education at Seattle University while actively serving their local communities. The mission is to form and develop passionate, faith-filled, and just educators who are committed to serving in Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Seattle. Founded in 2024, with the inaugural cohort that started in summer 2025, Seattle University's Catholic Schools Teacher Corps was established to address the growing need for committed and effective teachers in the Archdiocese of Seattle Catholic schools, particularly the most underserved Catholic schools. Program Pillars: 1. Education Teaching Placement Participants are placed in Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Seattle where they serve as fulltime classroom teachers. Graduate Studies Participants pursue a Master of Education in Transformational Teaching and Learning from the College of Education at Seattle University. This program also results in a Washington State Resident teacher certificate or adds additional endorsements if the applicant is already certified.
3. Community Living Participants live in intentional communities with their peers. This living arrangement fosters personal growth, mutual support, and a deep sense of accompaniment. 4. Spiritual Formation Spiritual growth within the Ignatian tradition is at the heart of Seattle University's Catholic School Teacher Corps. Participants engage in regular retreats, prayer, and reflection, guided by experienced mentors (www.seattleu.edu/cstc/).
After a summer of preparations and rennovations, on August 21st, Bellarmine proudly dedicated the John Ruffo House to the Pierce county expansion of the Teacher Corp. Celebrating John’s remarkable legacy, Fr. John Fuchs S.J. B’60 blessed the new home for future Catholic educators surrounded by family and friends of the late John Ruffo B’60. The partnership between Bellarmine and Seattle University was made possible by John’s generosity and enduring commitment to Catholic education. This year, Frank Williams is joining our Math Faculty while serving the Catholic School Teacher Corp here in Tacoma.
Lion Spotlight: Jody Welsh Degroot B’83 A Life of Learning, Coaching, and Formation at Bellarmine Since joining Bellarmine in 1997, Jody DeGroot has been an integral part of the Bellarmine community—as a biology teacher, coach, mentor, and now as a member of the school’s leadership team. Over nearly three decades, Jody has witnessed Bellarmine evolve while remaining grounded in the relationships, values, and mission that make the school distinctive. Q: How long have you been at Bellarmine, and what brought you here? A: I have been at Bellarmine since 1997, when I began teaching biology and coaching both volleyball and softball. In 2000, I became the head volleyball coach, a position I held for approximately 14 years, through the 2014 season. Coaching has been a very meaningful part of my time at Bellarmine. It allowed me to work with students in a different setting and to help them develop not only as athletes, but also as teammates, leaders, and young people. Q: What do you currently do at Bellarmine? A: I currently serve as the Vice Principal of Professional Development and Formation and Educational Technology. My work focuses on supporting our faculty and staff, strengthening professional development and formation, and helping ensure that technology is used thoughtfully and effectively in support of teaching and learning. Q: What is your favorite Bellarmine memory?
A: I have many favorite memories, both as a student at Bellarmine and as an employee. But one that stays especially close to me is winning our first state volleyball championship in 2012. That team was incredibly well disciplined and driven to compete at a high level. The support of the student body leading up to the championship was phenomenal. It was one of those experiences that brought the entire Bellarmine community together, and I feel fortunate to have been part of it. Q: What has changed most at Bellarmine—and what do you hope never changes? A: I think what has changed most is the attention to excellence across our programs and the tremendous number of opportunities now available to students. Those programs allow our students to explore their interests, build community, and develop lifelong friendships. What I hope never changes is the sense of community and the commitment to our students. Those relationships are at the heart of what makes Bellarmine special.
Left: Colleen Gillis Mounsey B’83, Erin Cordry B’84, and Jody DeGroot at the 2025 Bellarmine Athletic Hall of Fame.
Q: How do you see the Bellarmine mission and Jesuit values reflected in your work? A: The values are intentionally embedded in everything we do and create. We use our various frameworks to help us build programs and processes that keep us focused on the goal of our mission. We are missioned to walk with our students as they grow in academic excellence and become whole persons who will be leaders in the world, both now and in the future. That mission guides the work I do with our faculty, staff, and students every day. Q: What is one thing on your bucket list? A: I want to travel, spend time with family, and always be near the water. Q: What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday? A: Sports, good food, friends and family, and learning new things. That sounds like a pretty great Saturday to me!
“I think our students face challenges with perseverance and pride, and it is humbling to be among them. They remind me that education is about much more than academics—it is about becoming the people we are called to be.” Q: What’s something you’re really good at that has nothing to do with teaching? A: This is where it gets tricky! I loved coaching, and I believe that is something I can be good at, even though it is closely tied to teaching. There are many things I wish I were good at, but I think I am good at wanting to be around others. I really value being with people, building relationships, and being part of a community.
The World is Our Classroom Where Classroom Learning Meets Community Bellarmine offers distinctive opportunities for research, scholarship and experiential learning that connect academic inquiry with real-world impact. Whether exploring emerging fields, addressing global challenges or serving local communities, students gain the knowledge and skills to create meaningful change. Lions are empowered to explore academic interests and career pathways that reflect both their talents and their sense of purpose. By combining rigorous academics with personalized guidance, we help each student discover their passions and where they are feeling called to serve.
Our cutting-edge academic programs are anchored in the Jesuit tradition, challenging students to pursue excellence while growing in faith and as servant leaders. From the moment they arrive, students are encouraged to discover their passions, engage with their communities and the world, and discern how their unique gifts make a meaningful difference. Through college-level learning embedded in the high school experience, students develop the confidence and resilience to excel in college, vocation and beyond. With a global perspective, students embrace service, experience and reflection. Lions have a multitude of opportunities to explore their strengths, interests, career aspirations and challenge themselves to grow both in and out of the classroom.
This summer, Fr. Greg Celio S.J., Bellarmine’s Jesuit Superior, and Deb Savauge, Asst. Campus Ministry Director, accompanied 10 students on the Camino Ignaciano, thanks to a partnership grant with Boston College.
From the Archives: A Tradition of Support The History of Bellarmine Boosters The term “Booster” was first associated with Bellarmine in January 1929, when Fr. John McAstocker, S.J., attempted to organize school supporters into a club whose purpose was to help provide the school with a “boost.” For nearly a century, the Bellarmine Boosters have represented one of the clearest examples of the Lion community coming together to support students and strengthen the school. Although that first effort did not succeed, the idea endured. In 1945, a small group of Bellarmine alumni and parents came together to Bellarmine Girl’s Golf celebrated a 5th place finish at the 2026 3A State Tournament. formally organize a club focused on supporting Bellarmine athletics. Among those early leaders was Jay Merrick, who helped establish the organization and later served as its first president. The newly organized Boosters quickly became a powerful force. By the summer of 1946, the club had nearly 600 members, and by 1960, more than 2,100 people participated—making it one of the largest organizations of its kind in the country. Importantly, the Boosters' philosophy was not simply about raising money. Their strength came from volunteerism, fellowship and a desire to make Bellarmine better for students. Over the years, the Boosters supported projects that transformed the Bellarmine campus and student experience. Their efforts included the construction and improvement of athletic facilities, the purchase of athletic equipment, and significant support for the new gymnasium. One particularly ambitious project was the construction of the cafeteria, which relied heavily on donated materials and thousands of hours of volunteer labor from Bellarmine supporters. Fundraising took many forms—from car raffles, fishing derbies and golf tournaments to carnivals and community events. Yet the stories of the Boosters are ultimately less about the money raised than the people who gave their time, energy and talents. Their willingness to roll up their sleeves and serve the school became a defining part of the organization.
Today, the Bellarmine Booster tradition continues through parents, alumni and friends who believe in the power of Lion pride and community. What began nearly 100 years ago as an effort to give Bellarmine a “boost” has grown into a lasting legacy of service, generosity and support for generations of students.
Below: Jeff Woodworth, Phil Lamb, Derek Woodworth B’06, Tigre Garcia.
Above: Chelle Miller B’85 at the 2026 Bellarmine Booster’s Annual Golf Tournament at Firecrest Golf Club.
Learn about BPS Boosters!
Stay Connected
Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities Expand Your Network!
Alumni 21+ Post Game Social - Oct. 2 Career Panel Day - Nov. 16 Alumni Pub Night - Nov. 25 Reunions - Classes ending in 7’s Regional Lion Gatherings - Do you know a geographical area where there is a large contingent of Lions? Bellarmine’s Alumni office would love to come to your town and host an event for our Lion community. Reach out to Anne Gintz, gintza@bellarmineprep.org to learn more about Alumni City Visits and how you can help find the perfect place to host and share the word! Bellarmine Gala - Feb. 27, 2027
...with Career Day! Rachel Ford, Counselor
Connecting Students to Careers - and to the Bellarmine Community Bellarmine’s Counseling team continues to expand opportunities for students to explore careers, build professional connections, and gain real-world experience - with alumni playing an important role in that work. Career Panel Day | November 16 Career Panel Day brings professionals from a wide range of industries to campus to share their career journeys, experiences, and advice with students. Last year, more than 60 professionals participated in 18 panels, reaching approximately 450 students. Internship Program | Applications Open Nov. 23 The Internship Program connects students with local businesses and organizations for meaningful, hands-on professional experiences. Student applications open November 23, with internships taking place during the spring. Career Pathways: Live at Lunch | Beginning in January Beginning in January, our Live at Lunch series will offer smaller, informal opportunities for students to sit down with professionals, ask questions, and learn about specific careers and industries. Alumni: We’d Love to Have You Involved! Our alumni bring an incredible range of professional experience, perspectives, and connections - and we would love to share that expertise with current students. Alumni can get involved by serving on a Career Panel, joining us as a Live at Lunch speaker, offering an informational interview, or hosting an intern. Interested in participating? Let us know your career field and how you’d like to be involved. Even an hour of your time can create a meaningful connection and help a student imagine what’s possible after Bellarmine. Contact Rachel Ford: fordr@bellarmineprep.org