Mustang Messenger Fall 2016

MUSTANG MESSENGER

Volume 23 No. 1

The Bishop McNamara and La Reine High School Alumni Magazine

purposeful. proud.

PASSIONATE. THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

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President's Pen Dr. Marco Clark '85 Launches New Blog: Family Matters

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Academic Excellence Edu-Ventures: BMHS Teachers Around the World

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Around Campus Homecoming 2016 + Hall of Fame Board of Directors

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Faith & Service GOODPartners, GOODProjects, Good Work: Darius Baxter '11

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Athletic Pride Stampede to the Goal New Field. New Victories.

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Talent in the Arts Passion for Fashion: Jasmine Chandler '06

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Mustang Moments From Student, to Teacher and Back Again: Melayna Harley '17

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Alumni News

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TABLE

CONTENTS 2

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The Decision to Succeed: Ryan Middleton '06

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Why I Give...

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Ways to Support

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of

Upcoming Events

In Loving Memory

ISSUE TITLE: "purposeful. proud. passionate."

Getting into the Mustang spirit during our Homecoming pep rally!

CONTACT US! BISHOP McNAMARA HIGH SCHOOL

6800 Marlboro Pike | Forestville, MD 20747 (p) 301.735.8401 | (f ) 301.735.0934 PRESIDENT/CEO Dr. Marco J. Clark '85 PRINCIPAL Dr. Robert Van der Waag

ADVANCEMENT OFFICE

DIRECTOR OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

L'oreal Edmondson '98, HOF

DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS

Melissa Antonio Huar LR '91

DATABASE MANAGER/GIFT PROCESSOR

Dionna Gunter

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jasmine Johnson '10

CAMPAIGN MANAGER

Sandy Mammano

DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS

Robert Nolte

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Santana Questa

This publication is also available online at www.bmhs.org/publications.

We sincerely apologize for any errors or omissions contained herein.

Unless otherwise noted, photos are either taken by families, staff or courtesy of Lifetouch, Inc.

© BMHS All Rights Reserved THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

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Dear Bishop McNamara and La Reine High School Family and Friends, Throughout my 20 years at Bishop McNamara I have been afforded the opportunity to give many public addresses to our students, families, faculty and staff, alumni groups, civic groups and community supporters. I have always considered it an honor to talk about the success of our School, the success of our students and the many people who helped contribute to that success.

Unfortunately, all too often our American culture and educational system describe success in terms of grade point averages, college acceptances, degrees conferred, power, money and fame. Yes, we are proud of the achievements of our students. From the awards and recognition they receive, the scholarship money conferred upon them for college, their acceptances into top colleges and universities, and the careers that are launched that take them to the highest and most prestigious ranks. These are only important, however, if they remain good people – people who are kind, charitable, loving, compassionate and servant-leaders. This is what I am most proud of at Bishop McNamara High School.

I remember reading a few years ago, New York Times columnist David Brooks referred to the greater importance of eulogy virtues over résumé virtues. He described résumé virtues as the skills you bring to the marketplace. Eulogy virtues, on the other hand, are the ones that are talked about at your funeral — whether you were kind, brave, honest or faithful, and whether you were capable of deep love.

I am confident that our Bishop McNamara graduates know that eulogy virtues are far more important than the résumé ones. Unfortunately, however, our culture and our educational systems spend more time teaching the skills and strategies needed for career success than the qualities needed to make the world a better place.

At McNamara, however, success is defined differently. This is the essence of a Bishop McNamara and Holy Cross education—to raise and to form our students in faith, to teach them to live animated by the Gospel, manifested in service, and informed by academic excellence. We teach our students to think with Christ; to lead and to love compassionately, to respect all people, to build up and encourage others.

This issue of the Mustang Messenger brings attention to this less conventional definition of success. I am so proud of each of the people highlighted in this issue. It gives me hope to see the partnership and trust that is forged between teachers, students and our families as together we seek to do our individual parts to make this world a better place.

Recently I was asked what I want for our graduates. One look at our School’s graduate profile summarizes it well for us: The pursuit of academic excellence, strong in their faith and leading moral lives, a conviction for service and justice, a commitment to the formation of self, and through their actions and leadership, the transformation of society. At Bishop McNamara, we continue to aspire to do as the Founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, Blessed Basil Moreau, challenged: To form disciples of Christ with the “competence to see and the courage to act.”

Thank you once again for your continued love, prayers and support for Bishop McNamara High School. And please pray for us that we may continue to stay focused on these timeless virtues. Together we can make a difference!

Ave Crux Spes Unica!

With gratitude, in Holy Cross,

Marco J. Clark '85, Ed.D. President/CEO @mustangprez 4

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Family Matters President/CEO Dr. Marco Clark '85 Launches New Blog!

At the beginning of this new school year, President/CEO Dr. Marco Clark '85 launched his new blog entitled: Family Matters. In this monthly blog, Dr. Clark shares his personal reflections and thoughts about education, current events, ethics and more.

The December release of Dr. Clark’s blog focused on changes in education, and how the teacher’s approach to learning has developed over time.

Each blog post offers a question to readers, along with resources and links to provide additional information on the posted topic.

If you’re not reading it yet, you should be!

Visit Dr. Clark’s blog at: www.bmhs.org/family_matters.

Connect with Us! We want to hear from you, our alumni of Bishop McNamara and La Reine High Schools!

What have you been doing since graduation? How have your respective high schools continued to impact you even after graduation?

We want to know! Your classmates want to know!

Share your stories by tagging us through our social media pages, or by contacting our Advancement Office at advancement@bmhs.org Your story could be featured in our monthly e-newsletter, the Mustang Minute, or it could be a feature in the next edition of our Mustang Messenger!

Don’t get our e-newsletter?

Contact advancement@bmhs.org to add your e-mail to our contact list!

Photo credit to a little bit of whimsy photography.

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BISHOP McNAMARA HIGH SCHOOL happily welcomes its newest members to

THE 2016-2017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS G. Scott Drew, DO, FAOCD ‘79

G. Scott Drew continues his tradition of involvement with Bishop McNamara High School by joining our Board of Directors. After graduating from BMHS, Drew went on to receive his medical degree from A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Drew has been a practicing physician for more than 20 years, and has several board certifications, including the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology and Diplomate of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners, to name just a couple. He has also been the recipient of several awards, the most recent being the A.T. Still University Distinguished Service Award in 2015 – specific to BMHS, Drew was named to the Bishop McNamara Hall of Fame as part of the 1976 wrestling team, and just this year he was a recipient of the Caritas Holy Cross Award. Not only does Drew maintain his practice in the United States, but he travels internationally on a regular basis, volunteering in such countries as Kenya, Vietnam, India and others to offer his medical skills to those in need. Drew has remained heavily involved with the School, serving on our Nominating Committee, attending many functions and fundraisers, as well as returning to campus on numerous occasions to give influential presentations and speeches to our students, faculty and staff. A shining example of selflessness and dedication, we are honored and ecstatic that he has joined our Board.

LaShanta R. Harris ‘93

LaShanta Harris brings a fierce dedication and vast knowledge of law as one of the newest members of our Board. Harris has been a member of the BMHS Personnel Committee and most recently the Advancement Committee. Harris completed her B.A. in sociology from University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia in 1998, and her pursuit of a law degree took off from there. After completing her B.A., Harris took up an internship with Miller & Chevalier in Washington, D.C. before starting as a Corporate Legal Assistant for Sullivan & Cromwell in New York City. After two years with Sullivan & Cromwell, Harris moved overseas to continue her work with them in London. In 2005 Harris obtained her Juris Doctor degree from Howard University, graduating in the top 15 percent of her class. During her time as a student at Howard University, Harris worked as a research assistant, and later as a student defense attorney to prepare for her law career.

Currently she is the Assistant State’s Attorney in Prince George’s County, and has held that position with pride for the past six years. Harris has conducted approximately 15 jury trials and approximately 130 bench trials. Her commitment to the field of law and devotion to faith and service make her an ideal addition to our Board.

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Photo credit to a little bit of whimsy photography.

AROUNDCAMPUS Sister David Ann Niski, OSF

Graduates of La Reine High School will easily recognize the name of Sister David Ann Niski. Currently the Executive Director for the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters Foundation, Sister David Ann previously served as a teacher and disciplinarian at La Reine. Sister David Ann has remained involved with Bishop McNamara as a member of our Advancement Committee. She is dedicated to faith and service, devoting herself to numerous community service and volunteer opportunities in her spare time. For this devotion to helping others, Sister David Ann has received several volunteer and humanitarian awards since 1997; additionally, in 2013 she was named as a Local Hero

by Bon Secours Hampton Roads, and in 2011 received the Bank of America Local Hero Award. She is renowned for her work with nonprofit organizations. Sister David Ann received her B.A. in mathematics from Alvernia University – she also holds two Master’s degrees: An M.A. in teaching of mathematics from Villanova University, and an M.S. in institutional administration from University of Notre Dame. Sister David Ann’s legacy at La Reine makes her the perfect candidate to join our Board – she will no doubt keep our School even more focused on faith and service.

BMHS Welcomes our Holy Cross Liason to the Board of Directors: Brother James Branigan, CSC

Keeping our Board connected to our Holy Cross core is Brother James Branigan, CSC. Currently the Director of School Sponsorship, Moreau Province, Brother James is a graduate of Stonehill College with a B.A. in history. He also has two M.S. degrees: One in religion and religious education from Fordham University, and the other in secondary education/school counseling from St. John’s University. Since 1967 he has served as a teacher in various subjects and schools, and has also served as President/CEO of Notre Dame High School in Connecticut. Brother James has also coached both cross country and indoor/outdoor track and field respectively at several different schools. In his spare time, Brother James volunteers for the church and maintains a variety of memberships, such as his membership on the Board for the Hartford Archdiocesan Office for Social Justice Ministry. His commitment to service and the Holy Cross faith will help provide additional guidance for our Board of Directors.

BISHOP McNAMARA HIGH SCHOOL JOINS AISGW!

Bishop McNamara High School has been officially selected for membership into The Association of Independent Schools of Greater Washington (AISGW). Founded in 1951, AISGW has built a strong community of independent schools focused on the core values of advocacy, community, and member services. BMHS is one of 78 schools in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. involved with AISGW as the only Catholic independent school in Prince George’s County. Bishop McNamara High School joins several prestigious schools in membership of AISGW, including Holton-Arms School, Landon School, National Cathedral School and many others.

The 78 Schools involved with AISGW serve nearly 30,000 students. Thanks to the resources and networking AISGW encourages for members, these schools are able to provide more quality curriculum for students and learn alternative styles of teaching from each other.

Complications that may come about in later years may be avoided altogether with experienced insight from other schools. AISGW boosts the community feeling that flourishes in the world of education.

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HALL FAME OF

INDUCTION CEREMONY

This was a very special year for our Homecoming celebration!

Starting this year, we celebrated our Hall of Fame during the same week that we welcomed our alumni back to campus for Homecoming! We had a fantastic turnout this year as we honored our most recent Hall of Fame Inductees: Clayton Sam Redden '76 Michael Bozeman '84 Veronica Harris LR '90 1986 Championship Golf Team 1988 Championship Golf Team Our Homecoming festivities commenced with our pep rally on Friday, September 30th, which was followed by our Hall of Fame ceremony that same evening.

Saturday, October 1st, we held our annual Homecoming Football Game. The Bishop McNamara Mustangs faced off against the Archbishop Carroll Lions with a final score of 27-0; victory for the Mustangs! During the game, alumni and BMHS community members enjoyed a catered lunch courtesy of Bayside Bull/Catering by the Bay. After the game, Bishop McNamara hosted a special alumni gathering at Granite City in National Harbor. We saw some familiar faces, some new faces, and many alumni traveled from all across the United States to join us – it was so exciting to see everyone!

Mark your calendars and be sure to join us for next year’s Homecoming: October 21st, 2017 BMHS is now accepting nominations for Hall of Fame inductees year-round. Visit www.bmhs.org for details!

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ae ACADEMIC

EXCELLENCE

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Bishop McNamara faculty explore the world in the pursuit of education – not just for others, but for themselves as well.

The academic excellence that thrives at Bishop McNamara High School is not limited to the School walls.

From Forestville to D.C., to Belize and beyond, several BMHS faculty members have traveled far and wide in the name of education. While social studies teacher and Chair of the Social Studies Department Michael Pozniak is well-known and renowned for his travels, which boast more than 40 countries strong, this summer three other faculty members also packed their travel bags.

Math teacher Michael Fox-Boyd traveled to Russia. English teacher Emily Grice traveled to Belize. Junior class counselor Kristian Owens '05 traveled to the hallowed halls of the White House in Washington, D.C. These esteemed faculty members traveled as a part of professional development to help them not only spread the word about Bishop McNamara High School, but to also bring back priceless experiences and information to help shape their work with our own students.

Michael’s journey to Russia began with the story of a city that no longer exists as maps know it. During the 1700s, the city of Königsberg spanned both sides of the Pregel River, with two islands that were connected to themselves and to the mainland by a set of seven bridges. Carl Gottlieb Ehler, renowned as a mathematician and later as the mayor of the then-Prussian capital of Danzig, was fascinated by the bridges, and corresponded with Swiss mathematician Leonhard Euler about them. The main focus of their letters: Why is it impossible to determine a route that would allow someone to cross all seven bridges without crossing any of them more than once? Their correspondence and collaboration on what would later become known as the Königsberg Bridge Problem led to the development of a particular field of mathematics: Graph theory.

“Mathematics comes from two places,” Michael said. “It comes from necessity, like Newton and gravity, and it comes from wonder, like geometry and what happens when we draw a particular shape.”

Ehler's hand-drawn diagram of the Bridges of Königsberg.

Because most grants for funding are centralized around history, social studies, English and language arts, there is limited funding for mathematics grants. Michael explained that he was able to find a grant prospect in the Fund for Teachers website.

With the help of Director of Professional Development Charles Shryock IV, Michael was able to develop a grant to allow him to travel and study directly the origins of graph theory.

Michael Fox-Boyd in Russia

Thanks to the Fund for Teachers grant, Michael traveled to St. Petersburg for four days and to the current site of Königsberg for two. During his time there, Michael spent the majority of his time in museums to study the history of the area, and particularly the history of the Königsberg Bridge Problem.

“Peter the Great brought Euler to the Russian Academy of Sciences,” Michael explained how the Swiss mathematician ended up near Königsberg in the first place.

“As a progressive ruler, he brought all the best scientists and mathematicians into Russia.

So the letters exchanged between Euler and Ehler are at the Russian Academy’s Archive in St. Petersburg.”

Michael explained that most of his days were spent translating the letters from Latin and Italian into English. There was a great deal of correspondence between the two mathematicians, he said; but in particular there were three key letters that pertained to the Königsberg Bridge Problem and to graph theory. He was able to hold the actual letters, which are 300 years old at least, in his hands!

During World War II, the Soviet Union bombed the city of Königsberg, which resulted in the destruction of two of the seven bridges to the river islands. After the war, the Soviet Union rebuilt and renamed the city to Kaliningrad, as it is known to this day. During his visit, Michael witnessed the damage wrought during the war as well as the reconstruction efforts that were made afterwards, as his hotel was only a couple hundred yards from one of the islands featured in the Königsberg Bridge problem. “[The Soviet Union] bombed two bridges that entered one of the islands and built this highway over it – it’s like this horrible new thing on top of this beautiful old structure,” Michael said. “Some of the original bridges are still intact though, and the way they’re set up now you can actually walk across all of them without repeating a bridge.”

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Pictured above: Emily Grice (top row, center) with her students in Belize.

Pictured right: Emily Grice's students showing off their work

While Michael Fox-Boyd was savoring the cold climate of Russia, Emily Grice was teaching in the more tropical climate of Belize. This past June, Emily spent five days in the country teaching English and language arts to young students for the second year in a row.

even months after it was over. “As far as spirituality, faith has been a personal thing for me; figuring out what I believe and what I don’t. I thought that this would be a great opportunity for me to just be away, doing something I love and have a brand new experience.”

The opportunity first arose when Emily attended a “Learning and the Brain” conference two years ago. At the beginning of the conference, the hostess of the event announced that she was organizing a Belize Edu-Venture for eight teachers nationwide. After signing up for more information at the conference, Emily admitted that she was surprised when she was notified a few months later that she was accepted into the program.

Emily’s enthusiasm clearly shined through in her application. She left two days after the End of the Year Luncheon at Bishop McNamara. It was a bit of an adjustment, but not a drastic one. The education system in Belize follows the British model; Emily explained that she and the other teachers worked with students between seven and 13 years of age who spoke not only English, but Creole and a little Spanish as well.

Adjusting to the new education system didn’t faze Emily, as she explained that she was more focused on getting her lesson across to her students, because she only had them for a few days.

As part of the application process, Emily had to describe her rationale for wanting to take part in the trip. Specifically, she had to describe how she would benefit from the experience personally, professionally and spiritually. Emily said that she focused on culture and diversity for her rationale, along with her enthusiasm to take advantage of any professional development opportunity that became available.

“I thought that this would be something that would show me education in a different light. I was going to experience education in a different country, a different culture, and that was interesting to me!” Emily exuded the enthusiasm she had for the experience

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Emily said that the windows of the school were made of boards that were pushed out to let air flow inside, the floors were solid concrete and most of the classrooms were still using chalkboards. There was a portable projector that could be moved between classrooms, while three of the rooms had functioning SmartBoards.

“Honestly I felt very fortunate when I went there,” Emily said. “They loved having the help. It was like being a celebrity there – they love when American teachers come to the country.”

The program focused primarily on teaching language arts to the students of Belize. This summer Emily’s mother accompanied her to Belize. A fourth grade science and math teacher herself, Emily said that her mother was hoping to teach the subjects when she arrived; but considering the priority of the program focused on reading and writing, she was unable to do so.

The lessons were arranged around the book Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae; it tells the story of a giraffe who is mocked by the other jungle animals for his inability to dance, until a cricket kindly helps him by pointing out that he only needs a different song. According to Emily, vocabulary, comprehension and theme are usually the lessons that encompass the three days respectively. In order to help students with memorizing vocabulary, Emily said she did kinesthetic vocabulary lessons, incorporating movement to reinforce the meaning of certain words. During theme day, students were asked and encouraged to be somebody’s cricket in accordance with the story.

“We ask the students how they encourage their peers,” Emily explained the lessons about theme. “We ask them ‘if someone is sitting next to you and they’re struggling with a problem, what are you supposed to do: Do you make fun of them, or do you help them?’ Things of that nature that are more applicable to life.”

Emily explained further that the leaders of the program encouraged teachers to use the “chunk, chew, check” method of teaching.

This method involves presenting the material for the lesson – in this case reading the book Giraffes Can’t Dance – then processing the material, by going over vocabulary and the meaning of the story; and finally assessing students’ understanding of the material.

Teachers involved in the program were encouraged to bring small gifts or books to give to their students when the program was concluded. Books are apparently a vital aspect of Belize education and free time.

Emily was astounded when she saw how enthusiastic the students in Belize were about reading.

“The way they loved books was awesome to see,” Emily recalled with a smile. “When those kids knew that they had five minutes of free time they ran to the library, pulled out a book and they were immediately absorbed into it.”

During her time in Belize, Emily was not strictly confined to a classroom. On an average day, Emily said that she and her cohort would teach from 7 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and afterwards they would reflect on the lesson and experiences for the day. Then they were free to engage with an activity planned by the program leaders. Sometimes, Emily said, they would travel completely across the country of Belize – which is not difficult considering that the country itself is approximately 60 miles long.

Overall, Emily was happy with the exposure to the culture of Belize and its people.

Rarely did they eat at the lodge where they were staying, most meals were eaten when they were traveling between activities thanks to local family-run food stands.

Emily said that the people of Belize were very friendly, and that the leaders of the program knew everyone with whom they interacted personally.

Closer to home, Kristian Owens was invited to the White House this summer to participate in a summit with the Reach Higher Initiative aimed at engaging students in under-served populations, such as students who were homeless or in foster care.

Kristian Owens '05 at the White House

During the summit, Kristian said that she had the opportunity to meet former first lady Michelle Obama along with several renowned authors. A panel discussion with the former first lady was held at the start of the day-long summit, after which the attendees were broken up into small groups for discussion and reflection.

Kristian participated as a group facilitator.

Through these discussion groups, Kristian learned and listened to several stories from the students about their experiences and circumstances. It was an emotionally touching experience.

Recently featured in the previous issue of the Mustang Messenger, Kristian Owens has been celebrated for her development of a college mock-application for students to practice applying to colleges. It was for this reason, and for her success and involvement with The Teachers Guild, that Kristian was invited to participate in the summit.

“I met one young man who shared with me that he was homeless throughout most of his high school career,” Kristian recalled.

“He lived in a shelter, worked two jobs while in high school and was able to maintain a 3.7 GPA and get a full ride to college. To me, that meant more to me than whatever I came [to the summit] to say or do.”

“Basically [the summit] was all about assisting those students,” Kristian explained the goal of the summit. “We wanted to help them continue to reach higher in postsecondary education. There were about 130 students total at the summit.”

After the discussion groups, the first lady shared her own personal experiences with the students; where she came from, her college life and the wisdom she had gained.

To Kristian, the fact that the former first lady of the United States was so open and forthcoming with students she’d never met before was a powerful thing to witness.

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Michael said he would love to pursue more travel opportunities that allow him to explore the history of math. As he said, math comes from necessity and wonder, so exploring the root of the discovery of certain mathematical concepts, and how renowned historical mathematicians developed their theories would be interesting to him.

“I felt very fortunate when I went [to Belize],” Emily said. “We had a good time and it was just such a nice reminder of how blessed I am. I know I always come back and think about [the students] for the next month. I still think about them.”

Emily and Michael also enthusiastically recommended that students should consider traveling during their collegiate education if at all possible. Because her program of study was so particular during her college days, Emily laments that she was not able to study abroad, though she would have loved to. Michael expressed in turn that his only regret and the one thing that he would change from college was that he did not study abroad. Both were vehement that students should go out and experience other countries and cultures, and that college is the ideal time to take advantage of these opportunities.

Michael said that he plans to use his experiences and his notes from the EulerEhler letters to create a lesson plan for this year focused on graph theory. The trip to the site of the discovery and development of the concept was rejuvenating and energizing for him. Michael described it as a pilgrimage, pursuing knowledge and affirmation of what he had already known to experience it for himself with his own eyes.

“I think cultural exposure is everything because I know what it’s done for me. I really feel better about who I am because of the cultures I’ve experienced,” Emily said. “I think that with private education our kids don’t understand how great they have it compared to others. I think that kids need to see that they’re getting a unique opportunity, that what they have here is special and that’s not how education works everywhere else.”

Kristian facilitating discussion groups during the White House education summit

Kristian believes that Michelle Obama’s experiences and stories that she shared during the summit can serve as a source of inspiration for these under-served students.

When asked what the most rewarding part of the summit was for her, Kristian had difficulty picking one particular aspect.

After thinking for a while, Kristian said that meeting and talking with the students was the richest part of the experience.

“Many of [the students] didn’t know each other. They came from all over the country and from all walks of life; some were physically disabled, some were in severe financial need,” Kristian said. “But yet, what made them relate to each other was their stories. They weren’t completely the same, but they were able to relate to each other.”

The experiences that Michael, Emily and Kristian all had during their respective travels are ones that will definitely have a lasting impact on them and their lessons for students.

Kristian said that her experience and “such resilient young people” inspired her to continue to be the support that students need during their high school experience and beyond. She wants to continue to help students “beat the odds, whatever their odds may be so that they can succeed and not succumb to whatever it is that is in their way.”

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As for future travel plans and opportunities, all three faculty members gave an enthusiastic and resounding ‘yes’ when asked if they would travel for education again.

“I would love to go to another country to teach!” Emily exclaimed. “I am thinking about traveling and teaching somewhere for summers. I would love to teach in Africa, I thought about teaching in Hawaii, I want to volunteer at this place in Thailand that I’ve looked up. I would go all over the world.”

Grice with her Belize students

f&s

FAITH AND SERVICE

,

GOODProjects, Good Work.

Meet Darius Baxter '11, Co-Founder of GOODPartners, Caritas recipient and dedicated community leader.

Photo courtesy of The J Spot Photography.

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Faith and service; key ideals in the Bishop McNamara mindset.

For Darius Baxter ‘11, service and dedication have always been more than just a requirement to graduate from Bishop McNamara High School. Each year of his attendance to the School, Darius was at the top of the list for most service hours completed, going above and beyond the required number of hours. He continued this service-oriented mindset upon graduating from Bishop McNamara, though he admitted he had always seen it as an extracurricular activity; something to do when he had spare time.

It was a meeting with political consultant Frank Luntz that changed how Darius viewed service. “[Frank] challenged my friends and I as a collective group,” Darius explained how he met Frank at Georgetown University and how it changed his view on service. “We all had our success stories and how we had overcome adversity, and still we were all dedicated to service. He challenged us to find a way to monetize that dedication so that we could continue to do it after graduation.”

Darius and his three friends from Georgetown, Troye Bullock, Daniel Wright and Marcus Hughes all faced more than their fair share of hardship during their youth. It is because of their experiences and their dedication to service that brought them together as friends, and served as the inspiration for the mission of their company: GOODPartners. After speaking with Frank Luntz, the group filed the necessary paperwork to form their own agency, even though they weren’t exactly sure what they wanted to do, or how to go about doing it.

But the most important thing was that they were inspired, and that they were actively doing something.

With this in mind, Darius and his partners actually created two separate companies to manage their goals most effectively.

“There’s GOODPartners, which provides organizations with needs like funding and networking,” Darius explained the difference between the two companies. “Then there’s GOODProjects, which is the non-profit side that goes out into communities and uses our experience of having overcome similar situations to what they’re experiencing to help them work through it and gain confidence and skills.”

In essence, GOODProjects does the face-to-face work with communities in need, helping to boost their awareness that funding and other opportunities exist outside the community.

Then GOODPartners comes in; they bridge the gap between the communities in need and the people or places that have the opportunity to make things better for them.

Currently, the agencies function solely in Washington, D.C., which is purposeful, according to Darius. As Darius and his partners got their start at Georgetown, starting in D.C. made sense to them. Additionally, they saw with their own eyes that the community was in need, and wanted to make a difference for these people in particular. There have been talks about expanding, and recently the agency did expand its reach from serving Southeast D.C. exclusively, to also serving Northwest D.C. – but this was an expansion that came after a great deal of consideration.

“We had the partners to be able to make that expansion,” Darius said. “All expansion is not good expansion if it’s done too quickly.

The goal is [for the business] to be international, but that takes time. You can’t rush the process, otherwise it crashes. You have to start with a strong foundation.”

“When we first started in the planning stages, we wanted to make philanthropy cool,” Darius explained the thought process behind the agency. “We had a big white board in our dorm room, and one of the big goals we had was making philanthropy and giving ‘cool’ so that everyone would want to do it and get involved.”

Darius and his partners brought a fresh, new perspective to the nonprofit world. Many people donate to nonprofit organizations because they have a connection to a particular charitable cause.

While this is a good strategy identified by many nonprofit organizations, Darius and his partners wanted to utilize not only that feeling, but they wanted to increase giving to their organization in an almost entrepreneurial way. Making philanthropy cool would mean increased word-of-mouth advertising for GOODPartners. Additionally, for every person who donated and felt ‘cool’ doing so, they would spread the word to their friends about how cool giving is, and how they should do it as well. This would mean more donations and increased revenue for the business, and for the programs conducted by the charity.

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Photo courtesy of Matthew A Payne Photography.

Careful planning and focus on the business have been integral to its success. While things haven’t always gone smoothly or perfectly, Darius said that having a plan in place was the saving grace of the company, and also heralded it as the main reason for his own success.

Darius explained that, in college, he wrote out a five-year plan that included his personal goals and goals for the business. The way Darius formed his plan was he started out with a five-year goal, and then worked backwards, breaking it into sections separated by each semester. He examined what steps he would need to take to

reach that goal and who he would need to interact with, then made short-term goals and plans to obtain that ultimate goal.

“I couldn’t guarantee that any of these [short-term goals] would happen,” he said. “I couldn’t have guessed or hoped that I would hit those metrics, but at least I had a plan. Even if you don’t hit the goals you put on that plan, at least you have a parameter in case all hell breaks loose.”

With his plan set and his goals outlined, Darius is confident that he and GOODPartners will continue to be successful in the future. Darius said that he would love to see a change in the world, where people would “understand their own power, despite limiting factors that exist around them.” Darius expressed that the color of someone’s skin, or the neighborhood they live in, their sexuality or how much money they make are not factors that contribute to their success.

Success is truly earned through hard work and dedication to one’s goals.

“If I work hard, as difficult as things may seem, there’s going to be that one moment where I can break through that glass ceiling,” Darius said, proudly.

While there is no limit to one’s success once they have the proper mindset, there are of course challenges that present themselves in any situation. Darius said that the company had faced the challenge of branding by working with different ideas and tactics to help clarify what GOODPartners and GOODProjects do, but of course he had his own challenges to face as well.

“Youth has definitely been a challenge,” he admitted. “I still have all the temptations and mentality of being a young person. I want to go out with friends, enjoy life and all the things young people want to do – but I’m willing to sacrifice that stuff now, in order to be able to do it later and enjoy my own success.”

While he cited his youth as a challenge, Darius said that his youth was also his greatest strength. He said that his youth gives him the drive and energy to fully commit himself to his company and to his goals. Darius added that starting his own company while he is young was a strategic move, as his responsibilities and financial commitments are not as numerous as they would be if he were older. As he laughingly put it, all he has to do is: “Get up in the morning. Walk the dog. Work on the business.”

For his commitment to faith and service, Darius was named a Caritas award winner by the School this past year. He has also been featured in print by USAToday and NBC4 News Washington, as well as on television on 60 Minutes. Darius’ dedication to his goals are obviously factors in the success of both his personal career and that of his business. He asserted that such commitment and

Pictured from left to right: Principal Dr. Robert Van der Waag, Alumni Association President Marlo J. Ford LR '87, Darius Baxter '11 and President/CEO Dr. Marco J. Clark '85

hard work are the only things people need in order to share similar success stories. Especially Bishop McNamara students.

“You see young entrepreneurs who are successful and you think to an extent that they must have had some kind of ‘secret sauce’ that they were able to accomplish all that. But it’s not!” Darius exclaimed. “They just had a certain level of dedication to their product and they disciplined themselves. At the end of the day, it’s just making up your mind, and going to do it.”

Darius encouraged current students, and anyone looking to fulfill a dream or goal to follow his very simple advice: “Have a plan.”

When you have a plan, there’s nothing you can’t accomplish. With a written plan to hold you accountable for your goals, and the drive and dedication to bring them to reality, there’s nothing that you cannot accomplish. Darius attested with a smile that he is living proof of how far someone can go, even when they are surrounded by limiting factors.

“McNamara is like a metaphor for my experience in life,” he said. “The campus of this beautiful private school with amazing opportunity sits in the middle of an area with instances of poverty and violence. I’ve always had great opportunity, but I’m never far removed from and reminded of just how different things could have been.”

It is easy to get discouraged in trying times and unfortunate circumstances. It’s easy to think “I can’t” when one should be saying “I can. I will.” But with faith, and a commitment to oneself, anything can be overcome.

"Anyone can be successful.

You just have to plan for it."

www.GOODPartners.org www.GOODProjectsDC.org THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

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ap

ATHLETIC PRIDE

STAMPEDE TO THE

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GOAL

It’s a hot, humid day; late summer at Tyoka Jackson Field.

The stands are full of parents and Bishop McNamara High School students, all shouting their school spirit loud and proud. On the field are the Lady Mustangs, wearing the white home uniforms to set them apart from the St. Mary’s Ryken Lady Knights clad in dark blue uniforms.

The game is soccer.

Across from the stands, players from both teams sit on benches while the coaches each yell plays from the sidelines. Overall, the most distinctive voice rings in a thick Irish accent: Bishop McNamara’s Head Soccer Coach, Dave Mongey.

For 12 years Coach Mongey has been in the United States, originally coming across the Atlantic to play soccer himself. As a new member of the Bishop McNamara community, Coach Mongey has led the Lady Mustangs through a prominent season this year.

“Coach Mongey has been doing a great job,” said BMHS Director of Athletics Anthony Johnson ‘88. “He works well with the families and the players. He’s a great catalyst to the renewed success of the program.”

But of course a coach needs a team, and the Lady Mustangs have proven themselves a force to be reckoned with this season.

The team won seven games out of a total of 13, with the first five games in a row marked as victories. In the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC), the team was one of the top four finalists. This victorious season is particularly exciting, given that five members of the team this year are freshmen, which created a dramatic adjustment in team dynamics. But this adjustment was not difficult for Coach Mongey or the players, as the family atmosphere at Bishop McNamara runs deep.

“We’re very close, considering the fact that we’re pretty much a new team,” said Anissa Mose ‘17. “Getting together, we’ve been playing pretty well and our chemistry has been building a lot.”

This feeling of camaraderie was shared enthusiastically by the newest members of the team, freshmen Stevie Mika ‘20, Alana Paul ‘20, Nadia Wilson ‘20, Brianna Davis ‘20 and Kale’a Perry ‘20. The freshmen five have been playing soccer together since they were very young in club soccer teams – specifically Future Soccer Club (FSC) in Upper Marlboro, Md. Considering that they all knew each other, it made the transition to high school a bit easier for them.

Soon enough they got to know their teammates not only through practice and games, but also in the hallways and through School activities. The freshmen players were enthusiastic and vocal about how accepting the upperclassmen players were to them.

The sense of “being family,” that is one of the four main pillars of a Holy Cross education, was evident. It’s no surprise that the new players adapted easily into the family setting of the School and of the team.

“When we were with FSC, we were so close with each other.

We were basically sisters,” said Stevie. “At first we weren’t as close with the upperclassmen, but now we’re all really close and really good friends.”

They already considered each other family, and that family grew upon joining the Lady Mustangs Soccer Team.

The leadership and inclusive mindset exhibited by the senior members of the team played a vital role in making the freshmen players feel welcome. The veteran players took the freshmen under their wings and helped motivate them to do their best both on and off the field. Kale’a said that their motivational guidance focused on “the positives” – as in what the younger members were doing correctly, reinforcing good effort and encouraging them to keep going.

“These are my best friends, I have a bond with these people,” said Alana. “This sisterhood bond makes me go into the game fighting because I love these people and we all want to win.”

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“It’s my motivation if a day’s going hard,” said Nadia. “I know that at the end of the day, I get to go outside and play soccer with my friends. I look forward to that a lot!”

Above all, the senior leaders preached the importance of teamwork and respect, the latter of which is another of the four Holy Cross pillars. Kale’a said that Paige Stephenson ‘17 and Anissa both emphasized the importance of showing respect to each other, not just as teammates, but as people.

The respect and familial bond flourished amongst the members of the team. That link became a driving force behind their success. Multiple players said that it was the strength of this bond that made them want to play better and win more games; not for themselves, but for their teammates. Alana said in particular that her love and respect for her teammates fueled her desire to play her best.

This drive and motivation was shared by all the players of the team; each and every player put forth their best effort this season and helped bring renewed success to the Lady Mustangs Soccer Team. Even after winning the first five games in a row, they maintained their focus on how they could continue to improve instead of resting on their laurels and letting the victories go to their heads.

“I would say that it feels great to be 5-0,” said Sydney Washington ‘19. “But the next day we practice, we say that we’re 0-0 to help us get ready for the next game.”

“Being here from a freshman and seeing the program grow so much is a really great feeling,” said Paige.

Their leadership has helped inspire the underclassmen players – not only to put forth their best effort and play their hardest, but also as role models to become good leaders themselves. Stevie said that she looks up to the senior players, and that their actions have taught her how to be a good, effective leader when the time comes.

“I can’t wait until we’re seniors, I’m already thinking that far ahead!” exclaimed Brianna. “I can’t wait until we get those overexcited freshmen, like we are now, and we have the opportunity to lead like [the seniors] have led us.”

The motivation to be great leaders and to play better with each new season will ensure a successful future for the Lady Mustangs.

The bonds that they have forged with each other this year will only grow stronger and more numerous as new members join the team with each incoming freshman class.

Anthony Johnson reflected on this most recent season and said that the success of the Lady Mustangs Soccer Team is only going to continue. He said that their standing this year in the WCAC is unprecedented, and that the dedication and honors received by the players “suggests a good future for the program.”

With their determination and commitment to their sport and to their team, the Lady Mustangs are bound to charge ahead and bring the soccer program to renewed greatness.

On and off the field, the players helped each other remain focused on their moral character and schoolwork. Maintaining that family bond helped remind all the players that they all had each other’s back, no matter the circumstances – reiterating that level of support that the team presented.

For the seniors graduating this year, it was a good way to finish off their participation in the soccer program.

BMHS SOCCER CAMPS

Do you have a child who might like to learn how to play soccer from our talented athletes? Each summer, Bishop McNamara High School holds a soccer camp! Keep an eye on our website and social media pages for more information, and see the Lady Mustangs in action!

Coach Mongey gives the Lady Mustangs a pep talk at halftime to spur them on to victory

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new field, new victories. same mustang pride.

Bishop McNamara High School is proud to unveil our new, freshly-turfed athletic field!

Join us at the new and improved Tyoka Jackson Field and cheer the Mustangs to victory!

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TALENT IN THE ARTS

Passion

Passion for the arts manifests itself in many forms. Some pursue the more traditional fields of visual artistry; drawing, painting, sculpting and the like. Others take their interest to a more technological field, such as graphic design or architecture. Still others use their passion to travel and experience the culinary arts and customs of the world.

Then there are others whose interest in the arts manifested in one of the world’s most compelling industries: Fashion.

Jasmine Chandler ‘06 launched her line, Jrée Desirée, in 2013 – for her, fashion has always been a calling, even in her youth.

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for

fashion

“I remember being in elementary school and I had notebooks full of drawings,” Jasmine recalled. “Then one day it just came into my heart that I wanted to be a fashion designer. I haven’t let that passion go ever since.”

So not only is Jasmine busy at prom season as an entrepreneur, but she is also utilizing her talents to give back to young ladies in need.

Jasmine’s line has been featured in renowned locations such as New York City and Los Angeles. In Los Angeles specifically, her designs were shown on a runway created in the middle of Hollywood Boulevard. In addition to maintaining her clothing line, Jasmine has also been teaching fashion design since 2014 at her alma mater of Delaware State University.

Considering the hustle and bustle and quick turnaround of the fashion industry, Jasmine said that oftentimes she schedules trips to New York City for meetings and fabric shopping for projects and client orders. Her work as a designer and as a teacher presents a great deal of challenges for her. Fashion is a highly competitive field; Jasmine said that a big part of the industry is getting your work to stand out from other designers.

“My old professor had contacted me, asking if I was interested in a teaching position at the school,” Jasmine explained how her teaching career began. “I had never taught before, and to be asked to teach at a university level, I was surprised.”

In 2010 Jasmine graduated from Delaware State University with a B.S. in textile studies and apparel. Afterwards in 2013, she graduated from Drexel University with an M.S. in fashion design. Jasmine said that she draws on her own experience as a student at Delaware State to help shape her lessons and curriculum. Her experiences help her connect with and relate to her students to ensure their success in the program.

However, when she started her college education, Jasmine had chosen a pharmacy major, which she said had been recommended to her as a secure career.

“I was so unhappy and nearly failed all of my classes,” she said. “Once I switched to my passion, everything came much easier to me.”

Once she had chosen a major more suited to her passions, Jasmine thrived academically. Jasmine went on to graduate magna cum laude from Delaware State. Her academic dedication and preparation is something that she credits Bishop McNamara for instilling in her during her time as a student.

Jasmine recalled that her favorite times at Bishop McNamara were Homecoming and dress down days. She enjoyed that both days allow students to express their creativity. For her senior prom, Jasmine even designed her own dress! She lived her passion during her days at Bishop McNamara, and continues to live them today.

“During the day I spend my time preparing for lessons and grading.

Then throughout the day I answer client e-mails, think of new marketing strategies and work on sketches,” Jasmine shared what a typical day looks like for her. “Most times I find myself up through the night working on sewing projects and designs that I have created for clients.”

Jasmine shared that with prom season looming she will likely be very busy with her design work through her fashion line. During this particular season of fashion, Jrée Desirée hosts a Prom Contest for young ladies who are unable to attend prom due to financial restrictions. Applicants for the contest are female high school seniors with a 2.5 GPA or higher.

They must include a letter of recommendation and an essay to enter.

The winner of this contest receives her dream prom dress, designed by Jasmine herself, along with a surprise prom package.

“My ultimate goal for myself in my profession is to see my online retail site grow,” Jasmine said. “I also want to grow my personal clientele for my evening dresses; I want one of my gowns to be seen on the red carpet.”

These goals do not distract Jasmine from her work as a teacher at Delaware State.

Though it’s something she didn’t expect to do, Jasmine shared that she loves working with her students and sharing her passion for fashion with them.

“I love some of the relationships I have built with my students,” Jasmine said. “I love seeing how they trust me and come to me for advice and even recommendations.”

Jasmine’s dedication to her students is an admirable characteristic that is crucial in the world of education. She lives by the mantra “be true to your dreams” and is living proof of how passion and drive are both vital to success.

While Jasmine has been establishing herself and her line in the fashion industry, the passion for fashion has been shared by La Reine alumna Camilla Olson LR ‘71, who launched her own namesake fashion line, Olson & Company. Her company has since changed its name Savitude, which has found a niche market among working women and providing them with a “wardrobe blueprint” based on their answers to a few questions about their body shape. Camilla has been committed to innovation and pursuing curiosity; she has even been featured in a TED Talk.

Visit both Jasmine and Camilla at their respective websites to learn more about their fashion lines: www.jreedesiree.com and www.savitude.com.

Visit Jasmine’s Instagram @jree_designs.

Visit Camilla’s Instagram @Savitude.

For Camilla’s TED Talk, visit tedxtalks.ted.com/video/Left-Turns-Living-A-Curiosity-D

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MUSTANG MOMENTS On June 2, our own Raina Cooper '17 was named CTV's Athlete of the Week! Raina is an honor student who plays center field for the Lady Mustangs varsity softball.

Angelo DeGraff '20 began his second term on FEMA's National Youth Preparedness Council. During his first term, Angelo started and led a Disaster Preparedness Club at his middle school.

Angelo hopes to create a web-based disaster preparedness game during his second year on the YPC that can be used by non-profits, schools and families to inspire youth and teach the importance of being prepared.

Congratulations to Lady Mustangs basketball point guard Kyara Frames '17 on her verbal commitment to University of Albany!

Congratulations are also in order for Maceo Campbell '17, pitcher for Mustangs baseball. Maceo has officially committed to Longwood University!

On Saturday Sept. 10, Daniel Hassell '19 assisted at The Historic Capital Hill Church, Ebenezer UMC. The Adult Committee sponsored a Walkathon benefiting Homeless Veterans. Then on Sunday, Sept. 11, Daniel performed on the French horn with his father's musical group, The Rhythm & Bruce Band. Daniel actually wrote his own French horn arrangements for his father's original music.

BMHS Key Club President Jania Harrod '17 attended the 53rd annual Kiwanis Club Charter meeting on Sept. 24 at the Navy Yard. Many accolades were given to Bishop McNamara High School and most recent Scholarship award recipients: Alonzo Farley '16 and Ileana Fenwick '16.

On Friday, Dec. 9, BMHS was honored with a visit from Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker. Mr. Baker arrived on campus to share a special breakfast with some of our students, and answer their questions about his plans for the future of the county, his advice on how youth could get involved in their communities, and what he sees for the future of youth in Prince George's County.

On Oct. 21, the ACE (Architecture/Construction/Engineering) Club learned first-hand what goes on at Northrop Grumman Corporation and the life of an engineer. The ACE Club, comprised of 18 students, took a field trip to the Northrop Grumman Innovation Center in Virginia. They were able to use hands-on technology, virtual technology, and talk directly to engineers to hear (and see) what their job entails.

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THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

Pictured from left to right: Principal Dr. Robert Van der Waag, BMHS Parent Lou Holder, and President/CEO Dr. Marco J. Clark '85

On Nov. 5, the Bishop McNamara High School Department of Athletics hosted its Casino Night fundraiser! More than $30,000 was raised for the School in support of our athletics.

With more than 300 attendees at Casino Night, the event was a fantastic success.

Two of our very own students were named to the 2017 Maryland All State Ensembles: Imani Bey '17 was named Senior All State Band and Alanna Imes '17 was named First Chair Viola of the Senior All State Orchestra.

On Aug. 29, 2016 Jared Stinnett '19 proudly achieved the Rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America Program. To earn this ranking, Jared created an Outdoor Lab Classroom at Watkins Regional Park Nature Center in Upper Marlboro, Md. Jamir Moultrie '17, guard for the BMHS Boy's Varsity Basketball Team, officially announced his commitment to La Salle.

This year the High School Principals Association Teacher of the Year Awards went to two incredible faculty members: Sam Reich - New Teacher of the Year, Francisco Leonard Veteran Teacher of the Year!

Our own theology teacher James Monahan wrote an article after the World Series entitled What the Cubs Taught Me About Faith. The article was then published by Sojourners, an online publication devoted to articulating the biblical call to social justice and faith. In the article, Mr. Monahan talked about how every interest and hobby can be inspired by and encourage faith.

FROM STUDENT, TO

TEACHER AND

BACK AGAIN Meet Melayna Harley '17, the BMHS senior who spent her summer teaching at the U.S. Naval Academy.

Summer is a time for relaxation and celebration of free time.

It’s the perfect opportunity for new travels and experiences.

Melayna Harley ‘17 had the opportunity to teach – at the United States Naval Academy! Her subject: Engineering.

Thanks to the suggestion of a friend, Melayna applied for and was accepted to the Naval Academy’s Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) – an eightweek-long internship. Certainly not how every high school senior would be spending their summer!

“It seemed like a good opportunity,” Melayna said. “It would give me something to do, and it would help me understand more about the engineering field.”

Melayna explained that her father frequently worked with computers, thus she grew up around electronics and her interest in engineering stemmed from there.

The program required several hands-on projects and experiments that Melayna and her cohort had to create and analyze. Melayna excelled at her projects. She said that the instructors gave her one assignment in particular which they expected her to complete in a few weeks – she finished in two days flat! “[The instructors] were impressed and shocked,” she said, laughingly. “I could have finished it in one day but I had malfunctions with the screws that came with the project kit!”

Melayna continued to excel with her other assignments.

Specifically, she had to come up with a project of her own that was an innovative and creative use of her engineering skills.

Melayna chose to build what she called the ‘SeaPerch,’ an underwater robot that was later put into practice in running an underwater obstacle course, performing maneuvers and picking up random items. She was then able to give lessons about the SeaPerch to teachers who had traveled from around the world to the Naval Academy! She said that it was interesting to her, seeing things through a teaching perspective as a current student. The teachers were then able to go back to their respective schools and teach the lessons they learned from Melayna to their own students. She said it was “difficult, but interesting!”

Melayna not only taught teachers, but she also taught a biometrics lab to students between ninth and 12th grade.

“I felt like I could connect with them more because I’ve been in their shoes in the past and currently,” she said.

“I was able to help them understand more and have a one-on-one experience with the students.”

While Melayna got a taste of teaching at the Naval Academy, she laughingly said that she isn’t sure that she’d be interested in pursuing a teaching career after graduation. Nor is she particularly drawn to the military, but the program gave her a renewed appreciation for the hard work that they do.

After graduating from Bishop McNamara, Melayna hopes to attend Texas Tech University, renowned for their Edward E. Whitacre Jr. College of Engineering.

“The experience helped open my eyes to see the different aspects that are available in the field of engineering,” she said, reflecting on her experience. “I don’t know yet exactly what I want to do with engineering, but it has helped me to visualize the possibilities.”

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La Reine & McNamara

ALUMNINEWS

These pages represent news shared with the Advancement Office from May 5, 2016 - December 31, 2016.

'64 Recently, Sr. Chris Treichel LR '64 announced her retirement as a Franciscan Sister after serving the Church for 50 years.

Chris joined the sisters in 1965 and went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in education from St. Bonaventure University.

'78 Recently, Michael Watterson '78 accepted the position of Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) Program Manager with Earth Resources Technologies (ERT).

'79 & '84 The Federal Executive Institute (FEI) is an executive and management development and training center for governmental leaders. Recent graduates of FEI, John Kunsemiller '79 and John Patch '84 met FEI faculty member Mike Belcher '79 on graduation day. Each was surprised to discover their McNamara connection while attending a four-week Leadership for a Democratic Society program.

'83 On Saturday, October 15 in Boston, Mass., John Czajkowski '83 became ordained. Cardinal Sean O'Malley was present for the ceremony.

'89 Dr. Mark Ezell '89 successfully defended his dissertation at the University of Pennsylvania, earning his doctorate degree.

Jeff Kinney '89 recently celebrated the release of his latest book in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series: Double Down.

'90 In the December issue of Northern Virginia Magazine, the publication featured its "Top Lawyers." Our own James F. Davis '90 was listed as a top criminal defense attorney!

'91 LeadingAge Virginia, formed in 1973 as VANHA, a statewide organization of nonprofit retirement communities, has named none other than our own Melissa Radford Andrews LR '91 as their new President/CEO!

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On December 8 Michelle Folsom Elder '97 and her family welcomed the latest addition, Natalie Rose, to the world.

A healthy baby girl, Natalie weighed in at 7 lbs. 14 oz.

On August 6 Opal Jones Dawson '97 and her husband Andre welcomed Alia Monet Dawson into the world. The healthy baby girl joined her sister Anilla, who was very anxious to meet her.

Kate Meringolo '97 and Kent Mullen had some rather strange and uninvited guests at their wedding - namely, sharks! Kate and Kent celebrated their marriage on August 13 with an underwater ceremony.

Sonita Singh LR '91 was recently featured for her work in New Orleans.

Now, congratulations are in order for Sonita in honor of her graduation from Tulane University!

'96 On October 28 John Baltimore '96 celebrated his marriage to LaShawn Wheeler.

Fred Retener '96 and his wife Joelle recently celebrated the newest addition to their family: Riley Noelle Retener.

'88 Sonya Lowery LR '88 visited BMHS to talk to our Adventure Club about her own adventures.

Maya Davis '97 was recently named Interim Director of the Banneker-Douglas Museum in Annapolis!

'97 This past May, Yvette Banker '97 graduated from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law with her Juris Doctor degree. Additionally, Yvette announced in early November that she passed the Maryland Bar Examination!

Congratulations to Monica Daley '97 on her marriage to Kevin Phillips!

'98 Congratulations to Kopen Henderson '98 on the July 11 birth of Judah Asher Ford!

Judah is an 8 lbs. 3 oz. 21.5 in. bundle of joy and health.

Congratulations to Robert Jordan '98 on his recent graduation from University of Maryland University College with his Master of Science degree!

Isabella Madison Johnson was able to come home to her mother, La Dale Felton Johnson '98, father and big sister Johanna on September 7 weighing approximately 4 lbs.

On July 29, Parris Mason '98 celebrated his engagement to Angela Wilson!

On Monday, December 12 Nova Payton '98 returned to the BMHS campus to give a performance and presentation as part of our FADE Colloquium Guest Artist Series.

On October 14 Trayah Proctor '98 celebrated her marriage to Lance Belandres.

Recently, Makia Staves '98 was named the new Head Coach for Girls Varsity Basketball at Bowie High School.

On August 23, Erik Steiner '98 and Tasha Edmonds celebrated their marriage in a private ceremony.

Congratulations to Jeffrey Wheeler '98 on his marriage to his now-wife Courtney! On August 13 the couple celebrated their nuptials.

'99 On August 13, Alkia Carter '99 and Richard Morris celebrated their marriage with family and friends.

We were excited to hear that on August 13 Jennifer Fields '99 celebrated her marriage to Leonard Goddard.

Elizabeth Wells Wingard '99 and her husband Shawn celebrated the birth of their daughter. Abigail Elizabeth Wingard was born at 7 lbs. 12 oz. and 20.5 inches long.

'00 Our own alumnus and theology teacher Justin McClain '00 published a book entitled: Called to Teach: Daily Inspiration for Catholic Educators. The book features 366 short, thought-provoking reflections that can help teachers stay focused on their Christ-centered mission.

'02 On September 16, Patrick Evans '02 and his family welcomed the newest addition, Kaia Lillian Evans, to the world. She was born at 7 lbs. 13 oz. and 19 inches long.

'04 On August 31 Edwin Arambulo '04 and Jamie Escano Arambulo '04 celebrated the birth of Jaxon Brayden Arambulo. Jaxon was born at 7 lb. 7 oz. and 20.5 inches long.

Dr. Nicholas Gordon '04 is doing very well since his graduation from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Currently, Nicholas works in Boston, Mass. and recently had a wonderful article published about him by Tufts University.

Recently, Charis Jones '04 appeared on Good Morning Washington to promote her new album: Introducing Miss Jones.

'05 Chris Koch '05 has been very busy! After graduating in May 2009 from Wesley College in Dover, Del., Chris stayed in school and received his Master's Degree in business with a focus in marketing and management two and a half years later.

Congratulations to Nancy Liao '05 on her recent graduation! For the past year, Nancy has been studying tirelessly and working on a 65-page portfolio at George Washington University. She has officially graduated with her Event Management Certificate!

Heartfelt congratulations go out to Jeffrey Southworth '05 and previous Bishop McNamara High School Counselor Erica Di Clemente on their marriage! The couple were wed on June 18 and were surrounded by family, friends and several Bishop McNamara alumni, faculty and staff.

'07 Congratulations to Christopher Nelson '07 on receiving his doctorate in physical therapy from Nova Southeastern University!

Congratulations to Melissa Velasquez '07 on her marriage to Matthew Schwartz!

Melissa and Matthew married on June 4 at St. Columba Church in Oxon Hill, Md. This summer, our own Classical Dance Teaching Assistant Danielle Ward '07 joined the faculty of the world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School in New York City during their Jazz & Contemporary Intensive! Danielle was hand-selected by Mr. Michael Blake, Artistic Director of the program.

'09 Best of Baltimore 2016 awarded Julia Donoghue Belton's '09 restaurant 'Flavor' 'Best New Bar'!

On April 30, Stephanie Doleman '09 graduated from Florida A&M University with a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree.

This February, Zuri Foreman '09 completed an 18-month intensive program and graduated from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy with a Conservatory Performing Arts Certificate.

Zuri is now dancing in three Broadway caliber shows: Roll Out the Barrel, Celtic Fyre, and London Rocks at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Va. Recently, Alexander Powell '09 graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law, and passed the Maryland Bar Exam.

Currently he is serving as a Judicial Law Clerk on the Court of Appeals of Maryland for the Honorable Michele D. Hotten

Photo courtesy of The Pros.

'06 On July 2, Nicole Wellington '06 celebrated her marriage to now-husband Marcus Thompson.

'06 & '07 Ed Tyson '06 and Natalie Seppi '07 celebrated their marriage on December 3 with family and friends.

'09 & '10 On Saturday, July 9, Jerome Couplin III '09 and Brandon Coleman '10 returned to campus with Marcus Pilgrim '10 to host a free youth football camp for the third consecutive year at BMHS. Congratulations to Meghan Beach '09 and Dillon DiSalvo '10 on their wedding.

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'10 On November 27, Jackie Corley '10 completed the 2016 Amica Insurance Seattle Marathon! The marathon has been held annually since its inception in 1970, and is one of the top ten largest marathons in the United States.

Taylor Faulkner '10, currently a secondyear law student at the University of Maryland Carey School of Law, was elected as the school's President of Black Law Students Association (BLSA), selected as a member of this year's National Mock Trial competitive team (ranked in the top 10 best trial teams in the nation) and also selected as Staff Editor of the Law Journal of Race, Religion, Gender and Class.

On June 14, Courtney Harris '10 a.k.a.

Bobbie Michelle performed with her group Good Girl on America's Got Talent. After their performance, Courtney and her group got four 'yes' votes and proceeded to the next round!

'10 & '14 Alani Mason-Calloway '10 and Matthew Williams II '14 performed with the Tantallon Community Players Program in their production of DREAMGIRLS. The performances were held in Fort Washington, Md. at the Harmony Hall Regional Center.

2015 with a B.S. degree in international history with a minor in Japanese. His Air Force Academy senior history paper entitled: From Depression to Victory: A Record of Growing British Determination during the Battle of Britain was awarded in 2015 as the Academy's best history paper of the year. Adam's paper was published in the Spring 2016 edition of Air Power History Journal.

'12 Candace Brinkley '12 will celebrate her graduation from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science in business administration with concentrations in human resources and business management.

Candace has also accepted a management position with Amazon and plans to start graduate school this fall.

Congratulations to Brandon Franklin '12 on his graduation from King's College! Brandon earned a Bachelor of Science Business Administration degree in management.

This past May, Thomas James '12 graduated from Frostburg State Univeristy with Magna Cum Laude honors!

Currently Thomas is working with AmeriCorps as a Communicate Outreach and Communications Coordinator at the D.C. Public Schools Central Office.

'11 Shanelle Debraux '11 graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a B.S. in chemistry with a concentration in chemical science.

Danielle C. McCreary '12 graduated from Goucher College with a B.A. in psychology.

Danielle has also been accepted into graduate school at Salisbury University to pursue her Master's degree in social work.

After graduating from Towson University, Kellie Primrose '11 is currently teaching in two elementary schools in Japan through The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program ( JET) for U.S. citizens.

Congratulations to Michael Piazza '12 on being named to the University of Maryland University College Dean's List for the fourth semester straight! Currently Michael is majoring in information technology with a minor in cyber security.

Carmela Rourke '11 graduated June 2 from the United States Air Force Academy with a B.S. in legal studies and a minor in Arabic. She has been commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the USAF and has been selected for pilot training at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma.

Adam Thomas '11 graduated from the United States Air Force Academy in May

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Recently, Devin Swiner '12 received her first publication in a science journal, Biomaterials - a journal published

by Elsevier.

Jordan Taylor '12 recently graduated from Clemson University as a vocal performance major. Jordan is now a graduate student in music education and choral conducting at Winthrop University.

'13 Greg Freeman '13 is approaching his senior year at Clemson University in music performance in percussion. He worked in the D.C. area this summer and practiced for graduate school auditions.

Kendall Pace '13, a rising senior at Columbia University in the Ivy League and three-year starter at left tackle for the Lions football team, has been named to the preseason All-Ivy Conference team!

'14

Congratulations to Brenna Kacar '14 on being named as one of the Washington College Rowing Team Captains!

Bobbi McDowell '14 wrote an article that was published in the online publication Odyssey. The feature was entitled: "The Truth About Being an Overachiever."

While pursuing a double major from Penn State, our own Alex Myers '14 has recently been hired as Editor in Chief for the online magazine Odyssey.

Ashleigh Williams '14, who is pursuing her Bachelor's degree in business administration, will graduate in December 2017 from Hampton University. In May 2019, she is expected to graduate with her Master's degree in business administration.

'15 Mary Korendyke '15 participated in the National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at St. Mary's College.

Breana Ross '15 earned a spot on the University of Miami UMTV station for two different broadcasts. She is also working part-time for ESPN filming/ covering University of Miami sports.

BISHOP McNAMARA & LA REINE

EVENT & REUNION INFORMATION LET BISHOP McNAMARA HELP PLAN YOUR CLASS REUNION! We are excited to host our very first Bishop McNamara High School Reunion Weekend! Scheduled for June 9th and 10th, we will celebrate the 50th reunion of the first graduating class of 1967, but we also invite all the following classes to participate in the festivities to celebrate their respective monumental reunions:

JOIN US FOR THESE EVENTS!

Bishop McNamara & La Reine '67, '72, '77, '82, '87, '92,

Mark your calendars for these upcoming events in the spring!

Bishop McNamara High School ‘97, ‘02, '07, '12 The Reunion Weekend will provide activities and events for all classes to participate in as well as an opportunity to have individual classes meet up on their own at a local establishment. We hope all of you take advantage of this great opportunity to have all the reunion planning and organizing done for you!

Please contact Mr. Bob Nolte, Director of Alumni Relations at robert.nolte@bmhs.org, with any questions or concerns. We hope to see you there!

Mustang Cup Golf Tournament + Sip & Swing May 5, 2017 CARITAS May 31, 2017

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The

Decision of Success

Ryan Middleton '06

A young man, a student of Bishop McNamara High School, sat at home one night, pouring over his math homework. He focused on the problems, despite the frustration that mounted when he couldn’t quite grasp the particular problem on which he was working. He had no intention of giving up; he was going to finish these problems if it took all night. Earlier that evening he had come to a decision that he was going to commit himself to his schoolwork and studies, and do whatever he had to do in order to succeed.

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He had firmly decided to be successful.

Ryan Middleton ’06 is steadfast in his belief that success is a decision. That it not only takes great ambition to achieve one’s goals, but also that decision and commitment to do whatever it takes to obtain that success. Ryan said that this commitment was part of what made his success at Michigan State University College of Law possible. Prior to his enrollment at MSU, Ryan attended Cornell and received his B.A. in psychology.

Clearly, this decision has been paying off for him!

But it’s Ryan’s career patterns that have truly proven his mantra to be true. One of Ryan’s jobs is working as a Field Representative for U.S. Senator Ben Cardin. Ryan explained that he is Senator Cardin’s “eyes and ears in Prince George’s County.” He attends meetings and events on the senator’s behalf, and keeps him up-to-date on the county’s needs. But his interest in politics was not simply a recent development after his graduation from college.

“I was always into politics,” Ryan said. “Seeing President Barack Obama announce for the first time that he was going to run for the presidency, and seeing someone who looked like me ascend to that kind of level, it gave me a measure of faith in the system and it gave me inspiration to believe that I could also make similar strides in that field.”

But working in the government isn’t the only component of Ryan’s professional career. Recently, Ryan launched his own business: mybestbox, a health and wellness company that puts all the necessities for a healthy lifestyle in one convenient box with a different theme featured each month.

Maintaining the business involves a great deal of coordination with his business partners, as well as forming partnerships with international businesses and personalities. One of mybestbox’s partnerships was with Arianna Huffington, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Huffington Post, who provided her book entitled The Sleep Revolution as one of the items included in the company’s sleep-themed box. Maintaining such partnerships and ensuring the success of mybestbox while simultaneously completing his duties for Senator Cardin requires a great deal of organization and diligence.

“There’s no such thing as an average day for me,” Ryan laughed when asked what a typical day looked like for him between his job on Capitol Hill and his responsibilities with mybestbox. “The best analogy I have for it is spinning plates; I’m just trying to keep balance of everything that’s going on. I usually have an event or two on a given day, and if I have a few minutes or during my lunch break I’ll answer e-mails and phone calls for the business.

It’s all about trying to find that balance between addressing the needs of the business and keeping abreast of what’s happening in Prince George’s County.”

Ryan admitted that the work is difficult. But he also said that the stress and difficulty of working both jobs is absolutely worth it when he gets an e-mail from a satisfied customer of mybestbox, or when he helps a political constituent with something they need. Knowing that he’s doing the best work possible and making his business a success is reward enough.

The people and community of Bishop McNamara High School have helped and continue to be influential for Ryan. It was during his time at Bishop McNamara that he honed his attitude toward success; and the faculty, staff and administration of the School also had a role in influencing his mindset. Specifically, Ryan recalled how President/CEO Dr. Marco Clark ‘85 greeted him by name on Ryan’s first day of high school. With a smile, he admitted how much it meant to him, being 14 years old at the time and knowing nobody at the School, to have the then-principal of his high school recognize him out of approximately 194 students in his class alone. Dr. Clark was, and continues to be, an influential figure for Ryan.

“Seeing [Dr. Clark] continue to be a success, continuing to improve upon himself, and sing the praises and continue to be a champion for this School is still inspiring for me,” Ryan said, commending Dr. Clark on his completion of his doctorate education.

Considering that his professional focus will be shifting more and more towards mybestbox, Ryan is unsure of his future role in politics, but affirmed that he wants to continue to be involved in government in some way. Meanwhile, Ryan’s commitment to mybestbox is unyielding. Overall, his goal is for the company to become one of the preeminent brands in the health and wellness industry.

Recently, Ryan returned to the BMHS campus to give a presentation to our Project PRIDE students. After the presentation, Ryan was approached by one student in particular who expressed interest in pursuing a career in law, and wanted his advice. Ryan was incredibly happy to see such interest from a student, and eagerly agreed to help him in any way he could. Considering that it was at Bishop McNamara High School that his decision to be successful was cemented, Ryan encourages current and future students to maintain a similar attitude.

“Success is a decision. You’ve got to decide that you want to be successful,” Ryan said. “Sometimes deciding to be successful just means asking the question: ‘What do I have to do…’ to accomplish a particular task, be it passing a class, or getting to the same level as a mentor.”

By encouraging students to follow a similar mindset in his decision to be successful, Ryan is continuing a legacy of dedication and commitment exclusive to Bishop McNamara students and alumni.

To learn more about mybestbox and the themed boxes and the health awareness they promote, visit their website at www.mybestbox.com.

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Why

I Give...

The Bettie J. Sugars Perseverance Scholarship is awarded to a sophomore student who is committed to success despite the challenges they may encounter. The student who receives the scholarship embodies the same spirit as the scholarship namesake, Bettie J. Sugars.

Q: What inspired you to start this scholarship?

I was inspired by the determination that my mother had as a single mother to give everything that she had to make sure that I had the best opportunity for success in life. She was an educator by profession and the salary was not great but she dedicated her life to others. She taught me about giving back and I called this the Bettie J. Sugars Perseverance Scholarship because she embodies perseverance. I hope that the scholarship can ease a little of the financial burden that tuition can sometimes cause.

Q: Why do you give to the School?

I choose to give to McNamara because I believe in the mission of this school. Even though I am a La Reine graduate, I consider myself an alum. I am very excited about the building of the La Reine Science Center to continue the memory of my wonderful high school and former sister school of McNamara.

Why do YOU give to Bishop McNamara High School?

Share your story with us by contacting the Advancement Office at advancement@bmhs.org.

Charmayne Sugars Clark LR '85 (right), current faculty member at BMHS, Hall of Fame basketball member, past alumni parent and her mother, Bettie J. Sugars (left).

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WAYS TO SUPPORT

Supporting the Vision of Blessed Fr. Moreau and the Mission of Bishop McNamara High School

Bishop McNamara High School relies on the generosity of our school community. Tuition alone does not fully fund the needs of the School. It is only through the thoughtfulness of caring individuals that Bishop McNamara has been able to flourish and meet the needs of our students.

Spes Unica Annual Fund

Gifts of cash are available for immediate use by the School for academic programs, student resources and faculty support.

Cross & Anchor Endowment

This newly-established endowment allows for current and future students to have access to the best teachers and resources for their education. Establishing of perpetual scholarships, department chairs, naming of buildings and fields, and general donor-restricted gifts encompass the possibilities of the endowment.

Scholarship Fund Giving

You may make a donation to individual scholarship funds, which have been set up as memorial or honorary scholarships, or scholarships endowed by certain organizations.

Matching Gifts

Many businesses and corporations match personal gifts to educational institutions made by employees, retirees and family members.

Gifts of Securities & Stocks

Gifts of securities and stocks can help you save on capital gains tax and offer a charitable income tax deduction.

Memorial & Honorary Gifts

Your memorial gift to Bishop McNamara can help to perpetuate the values that guided a loved one’s life. Gifts may honor a person during his or her lifetime or commemorate a significant event.

Real Estate

Real estate can offer great potential for a charitable gift. Bishop McNamara High School will consider accepting a gift of a home, vacation property, condominium, undeveloped land, or other real estate.

Personal Property

Gifts of assets such as cars, jewelry and boats are also welcomed.

Planned Giving

Gifts made through wills, trusts and/or through IRA charitable donations.

Photo credit to a little bit of whimsy photography.

United Way of the National Capital Area: #8895 CFC: #62489 Maryland Charity Campaign: #6137 For more information, please contact L'oreal Edmondson ‘98 at 301.735.8401 ext. 134 or loreal.edmondson@bmhs.org THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

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in loving memory...

The information included on these pages reflects news shared with the Advancement Office from May 5, 2016 - December 31, 2016.

Janet Andrews Coleman, grandmother of Brandon Coleman '10 and Melanee Coleman '13, passed away May 22, 2016.

Teresa Altemus Christiansen LR '85 passed away October. 31, 2016.

Robert Bohrer, a former teacher for Bishop McNamara and La Reine High Schools, passed away December 24, 2015.

Martha Bozeman, mother of Todd Bozeman '81 and Michael Bozeman '84, and grandmother of Danielle Bozeman '04 passed away July 11, 2016.

Thomas Bruce, father of Thomas Bruce, Jr. '85 passed away May 25, 2016.

William Burns, Sr., uncle of Dr. Thomas Burns, Jr. '90 and Nicole Athey LR '92, passed away August 30, 2016.

Dolores Burton, mother-in-law of Donnie Downs '81, passed away June 14, 2016.

James Carey, Jr., who attended Bishop McNamara High School for three years and brother of Patricia Carey LR '71, passed away on June 26, 2016.

Chuck Chase '74, passed away on July 18, 2016.

Jean Connell, father of Mary Therese Connell LR '69, Patrick Connell '72 and Cathy Connell Hammond LR '74 passed away June 17, 2016.

Z'ane Davis-Smith '15 passed away November 4, 2016.

Wayne Dellibove '67 passed away November 29, 2015.

Filippo Di Clemente, father of previous BMHS counselor Erica Di Clemente Southworth and father-in-law of Jeffrey Southworth '05, passed away July 24, 2016.

Ethel Dougherty, grandmother of faculty member Shawn Dougherty and grandmother-in-law of faculty member Laura Keller, passed away on August 18, 2016.

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THE MUSTANG MESSENGER

Ricky Drew '74, brother of Dr. G. Scott Drew '79, passed away October 15, 2016.

Correction: Cari Edwards, daughter of Kasey Edwards LR '88 passed away March 6, 2016.

Kenneth Furnkranz, father of Michael Furnkranz '01, passed away on August 16, 2016.

Paul Gilman '71, brother of Patricia Warman LR '64, Ann Commeree LR '65, Lynn Dennis LR '66, Jane Clavelli LR '68, David Gilman '69, Carol Anderson LR '72, Alice Litz LR '73, Ruth Harris LR '76, Michael Gilman '77, Barbara Gilman LR '79 and Arthur Gilman who also attended Bishop McNamara, and uncle of previous BMHS staff member Caitlin Harris, passed away October 9, 2016.

Charles Gray, Jr., father-in-law of BMHS President/CEO Dr. Marco Clark '85 and grandfather of Kevin Clark '09, Casey Clark Lyle '11 and Meghan Clark '13, passed away October 9, 2016.

John Herbert, father of Brian Herbert '95 and Carrie Herbert Hemmer '98, father-in-law of David Hemmer '97 and grandfather of Alexis Hemmer '15 passed away July 1, 2016.

Nathan Lee Hunter, Sr., father of Todd Hunter '98, passed away July 25, 2016.

Emma Jones, grandmother of Taylor Brown '11, Jonathan Brown '18 and Jordan Brown '19, passed away October 2016 George P. Kalas, Jr., brother of Bob Kalas '77 and brother-in-law of Glynis Kalas LR '76, passed away August 15, 2016.

Eldridge Lee, father of Todd Lee '86, passed away August 13, 2016.

Donald Lloyd, father of David Lloyd '88, passed away July 8, 2016.

Photo credit to a little bit of whimsy photography.

Eternal rest, grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. Amen.

John Louis Lamarre, father of Richard Lamarre '67, Dennis Lamarre '70, Ronald Lamarre '75 (deceased), and Michelle Lamarre O'Brien LR '85, and father-in-law of James O'Brien '88, passed away on April 6, 2016.

Christopher Magelitz '71 passed away October 2, 2016.

Leonard Anthony Martin, father of Leonard Anthony Martin II '97, passed away August 28, 2016.

Jo-Ann Moore, mother of BMHS faculty member Linda Corely and grandmother of Jacqueline Corely '10, John Corely '12 and Janine Corely '16, passed away October 19, 2016.

Simca Moton-Kinney, aunt of Sherese Moton '96 and mother of Alonso Kinney, Jr. '06, passed away July 6, 2016.

Gertrude Myers, grandmother of Victoria Myers '12 and Alexander Myers '14, passed away in late October 2016.

Catherine Nerpiol Farley LR '72, sister of Cynthia Nerpiol Toomey LR '71, passed away May 29, 2016.

James E. Osborne, father of Joan Osborne Monroe LR '66, Anne Osborne Mucinskas LR '69, Jim Osborne '70, Marie Osborne LR '74 and Dr. Paul Osborne who attended BMHS for two years, passed away mid-September 2016.

James Robert Schraf, father of Kathleen Schraf Suthard LR '72, James Russell Schraf '78 and Richard Schraf '81, passed away July 25, 2016.

Audrey M. Somerville, mother of Velveetta Taylor-Battle LR '74, Glenda Somerville LR '76, Jacinta Somerville Green LR '80, Andre Somerville '71, John Somerville, Jr. '74, Dwayne Somerville '81, Marcus Somerville '82, Keith Somerville '83, Kevin Somerville '83, Darryl Somerville '84, Martin Somerville '88 and the late Felicia Somerville Shands LR '90 passed away June 25, 2016.

Irene Spriggs, grandmother of Brandon Spriggs '08 and Christopher Spriggs '10 passed away June 28, 2016.

John Strong, grandfather of Britni Contreras Hodges '09 and Lyndsi Hodges '12 passed away May 24, 2016.

The mother of Fransua Thomas '00 passed away in early May 2016.

Kathleen Toomey Lentz LR '78 passed away on June 14, 2016.

Blanche Williams, mother of Michelle Williams Weaver LR '72 and Christopher D. Williams '78 and mother-inlaw of John Weaver '71 passed away on April 24, 2016.

Rev. Donald Worsch, a priest of Mount Calvary Catholic Church, passed away August 27, 2016.

Mike Pakenham, husband of past faculty member Eleanor Hawkesworth, passed away November 28, 2016.

Jean Yannone, mother of John Yannone, Esq. '79, passed away in early October 2016.

Roy Pearson, father of Rev. Everett Pearson – pastor of Mt. Calvary Catholic Church – mourned the passing of his father last summer.

Robin Ann Yates LR '88 passed away May 13, 2016.

Bob Rezza '74 passed away October 20, 2016.

Cecil Rucker Sr., father of Roxane Rucker LR '77 passed away June 8, 2016.

Jennifer San Fellipo, daughter of Frank San Fellipo '71, passed away in early October 2016.

Bricks and benches for the Memorial Garden are available to purchase and personalize in memory of your loved ones.

Additionally, memorial Mass Cards can be purchased from the Advancement Office.

For more information, please contact L’oreal Edmondson '98, Director of Advancement at 301.735.8401 ext. 134.

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BISHOP McNAMARA HIGH SCHOOL 6800 Marlboro Pike Forestville, MD 20747-3270 301.735.8401 www.bmhs.org Address Service Requested

OUR MISSION Bishop McNamara High School, a college preparatory school in the Holy Cross tradition, exists to educate and form young men and women in and through the Catholic faith. The School challenges its students to think with Christ, a thought animated by the Gospel, manifested in service and informed by academic excellence.

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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Forestville, MD Permit No. 2048