MOST
MELCZEK
Largest freshman class in 23 years
This summer, the BNI maintenance team and office staff worked hard to make sure the building and school was ready to open for the 2022-23 school year.
In August, we opened our doors to the largest freshman class in 23 years and the largest total enrollment in 21 years!
While many other schools struggled to staff themselves properly with licensed and prepared professionals, we were ready on Day 1! This growth was not an accident.
We prepared to grow and on Day 1, we were ready with qualified and dedicated teachers to educate 550 Warriors!
Some people had questioned that type of enrollment growth. I did not! What our BNI staff was able to accomplish during the pandemic was monumental, and word spread about how our students continued to learn during a challenging time. We also took advantage of resources and supported students through a traumatic time by launching Warrior Wellness Wednesdays and providing counseling services as needs evolved. Our teachers continued to persevere and serve the Warrior community!
There are many reasons for this growth, but I can sum it up into one reason: WE ARE WARRIORS! Now, as we transition back from COVID times, we are prepared to transform ourselves with the positive changes that COVID learning provided, such as better utilizing technology. As educators, we also acknowledge that technology is not the only answer; we realized we need to get back to the academic basics of collaboration and project-based learning. In preparation for post-COVID learning, we have outfitted three science labs with scale-up learning centers, proven to support underrepresented groups and women in science advancement. We continue to expand our STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Math) program and utilize our state-of-the-art STREAM Lab for courses like Introduction to Engineering, Principles of Engineering and Civil Engineering.
Our future and interest in STREAM education continues to grow, and we are equipping more teachers with proper training to execute top-notch STREAM education. As the School Choice Scholarship program has been expanded to a level at which 80 percent of Hoosiers would qualify, our local community has responded by clearly showing it wants Bishop Noll to prepare its children in mind, body and soul! We will continue to prepare for growth and, most importantly, continue to intentionally develop and form young missionary disciples. It is a great year to be a Warrior! Thank you for your continued support, and Go Warriors!
God Bless, Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01 PrincipalBishop Noll Institute, a diverse, Catholic college preparatory school, partners with local faith communities to empower young adults to live their faith in Christ through ministry, scholarship, and leadership.
Paul Mullaney ’77, President
Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, Principal
Ryan Julian, Director of Advancement
Renee Nagdeman, Director of Finance
Carmen Ontiveros, Director of Admissions
Marisa Renwald, Technology Instructional Coach Matthew Pysh, Campus Minister
Most Reverend Robert J. McClory, Bishop Dr. Joseph Majchrowicz ’73, Director of Catholic Schools
Mark Cloghessy ’76, Chairman
Dan Markovich ’98, Vice Chairman
Dr. Jeffrey Kristoff ’63, Secretary Rev. Jeffrey Burton
Edward Limon ’85
Dr. Alex Molina ’98
Dr. Jasmine Saavedra ’06
David Skibinski ’76 Wallene Swentko ’63
Lori Prahovich Whelan ’85
Terry Quinn, President Marlene Vega Coulis ’79, Vice President Rev. Dominic Bertino, Treasurer Courtney Hilbrich Markovich ’95, Secretary Kenneth Wilk ’66
Would you like to receive your issue of Noll Today electronically? Please notify jflorek@bishopnoll.org. It is also available at bishopnoll.org under the alumni tab.
Noll Today is written and published in the Office of Advancement. Contact Jennifer Florek at jflorek@bishopnoll.org with questions and story ideas.
Ryan Julian Bishop Noll Advancement Office 1519 Hoffman St., Hammond, IN 46327 (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002
rjulian@bishopnoll.org bishopnoll.org
DAY 1: From left, Zekiel Zukley, Noah Jacinto and Caleb Carter check their iPads on the first day of school. The sophomores are taking Principles of Engineering in BNI’s STREAM Lab this semester.
With 186 freshmen, the largest incoming class in 23 years, Bishop Noll welcomes more than 550 students this school year, its largest enrollment since 2001–02.
“I'm excited about this freshman class and how the class of 2026 will enhance our school community,” said BNI principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01. “I think our numbers are a testament to our continued mission to serve Northwest Indiana and the south suburbs and provide quality Catholic education.
“These numbers also reflect how hard our team worked during the pandemic to make sure we continued to provide students with quality education and a sense of family in difficult and challenging times. When parents are equipped with the opportunity to choose the best education for their children, they recognize the benefits we provide our students in and out of the classroom.”
“We are thrilled to welcome these new students to our family and its tradition of achievement,” BNI President Paul Mullaney ’77 said. “Moreover, we are gratified to know these families believe in Bishop Noll Institute and the impact of BNI’s faith-based educational mission that has been a beacon in this region for more than a century.”
“I firmly believe that the Bishop Noll retreat program is important to all students. Every retreat I have attended at Noll has impacted my life. I believe that these retreats are truly an amazing experience. I still remember attending my freshman retreat—the Mass, the small discussions I had in my small group, and the talks the teachers gave. I believe it creates the first step to the reality of high school.”
As part of their faith-based education, freshmen began their year by attending their first BNI retreat, themed “every piece matters.” Retreat leaders chose this theme to let freshmen know that there is a place for them at Bishop Noll and they are all important.
“There has been so much going on for all students lately and the incoming freshmen have definitely had their fair share of struggles, so we want to start off the year by letting them know that they are welcome, that they matter to us, and that they are part of the Bishop Noll family,” said retreat director MariaEmilia Quiroga, senior. Quiroga loves retreats and has become actively involved in BNI’s Campus Ministry team.
“I love that (retreats) are a great place to make friends and everyone is included. The freshman retreat specifically is in the beginning of the year so they are all able to get to know each other. They come from so many different schools, or maybe just friend groups, so this allows for them to branch out and make new friends.”
The team’s goal was for everything to go as smoothly as possible and to have fun as the freshman retreat marked one of the first mostly-back-to-normal events since COVID.
“I was really excited to help out with Campus Ministry this year and to be working on retreats. My freshman retreat was so much fun so I was excited to be helping ensure that the future freshman class also has a great experience,” Quiroga said.
After attending their first BNI retreat, freshmen students, joined by their families and retreat leaders, celebrated Mass in the BNI Fieldhouse. The 186 members of the Class of 2026 are the largest incoming class in 23 years.
“I expected our retreat to be boring and that it would basically feel like another long ordinary day at school but it wasn’t. I really enjoyed the fun activities we did as a whole that involved the upperclassman. No one was left out and you could tell that we were all having a good time. When it came to the fun and silly activities it was nice to see everyone being themselves and living in the moment. It was also nice how we got to interact with the older students and get their perspective on high school.”
“The retreat made me feel welcome to BNI by just showing me that people will always be there if I had no one else. Now, when I see certain seniors in the hallway I know I can wave at them knowing I don’t have many friends yet.”
—Rebecca Carlos ’23, retreat leader
—Alexia Ramirez ’26, retreat attendee
“I liked how open and nice the retreat leaders were. The freshman retreat helped me get to know new people and make some friends.”
—Christopher Gonzalez ’26, retreat attendee
—Sania McClarin ’26, retreat attendeePhoto by Pete Doherty ’71/Doherty Images
Eleven years ago, Bishop Noll took a big leap of faith when they hired me as the Director of Advancement. The saying is true—time flies when you’re having fun! I am now looking forward to a relaxing retirement!
How lucky I have been to have had the opportunity to be part of an organization that has had such a profound effect on the Region for the past 101 years! Our 21,000 alumni stand out for their professional accomplishments, contributions to their communities and beyond. I have had the privilege to meet many of you during my time here. I am deeply grateful for your commitment to Bishop Noll Institute, our mission and our amazing students. Your financial support, volunteer time and many other kindnesses have enabled us to grow our student body, offer financial support to our students and make significant improvements to our school building.
I have spent many hours thinking of how to say “Thank You” for your kindness and generosity, and for the friendships that have developed over the past 11 years. Please accept my sincere gratitude.
I leave this office in the capable hands of Mr. Ryan Julian. Ryan is no stranger to Bishop Noll. He has been a social studies teacher here at BNI for the past seven years, and has also served as the head varsity baseball coach. I will continue to work in a consulting role one day a week for the next several months.
In the words of (my favorite) Carol Burnett—“I’m so glad we’ve had this time together…”
Thank you and God Bless you!
Bishop Noll has hired a new Director of Institutional Advancement for the 2022-23 school year. Ryan Julian will be taking over the department from Mary Ellen O'Neill, who served BNI in that position for 11 years. Mrs. O’Neill has served BNI proudly in that time and has grown BNI’s presence with the prestigious alumni and surrounding communities. She is/was a valued asset to the BNI community and will be tough to see her go.
“Mrs. O’Neill has been a blessing helping me transition into this new role at BNI. She has helped BNI in so many ways, often without public recognition, and I hope I can come close to matching her passion and drive for the future success of BNI in the 21st century,” Ryan Julian said.
Julian has been a part of Bishop Noll in a teaching and coaching capacity for the previous six years. He welcomes this new role with 11 years of educational experience. During his time at Noll he served as the Department Chair of the Social Studies Department and was head varsity baseball coach from 2017- 2022.
Julian is a graduate of Mount Carmel High School in Chicago along with earning degrees from Loras College ’11 and an M.A. from Valparaiso University. Julian is excited to get started building relationships with the many friends and family of BNI and, of course, the large alumni community. He commented, “Coming from a high school Mount Carmel with a rich alumni tradition, I realized early in my educational career that what makes Catholic education stand out among its competitors is the familylike relationships that go far beyond the high school years and the physical school building. Being a part of BNI these last six years, I have witnessed first-hand the special atmosphere created at 1519 Hoffman.”
Bishop Noll Institute has received its largest bequest, a $2.28 million gift from the estate of Gerald and Patricia (Quinn) O’Connell. Patricia, pictured above, was a 1948 graduate of Bishop Noll High School.
“We are forever grateful to Patricia and Gerald for remembering Bishop Noll in this manner,” BNI President Paul Mullaney said. “It is heartwarming to know they believed so much in the positive impact Bishop Noll had on Patricia’s growth and overall high school experience that they wanted to help so future students would have similarly positive experiences at BNI.”
The generous gift is deposited in an endowed fund with the Bishop Noll Institute Foundation, Inc., which oversees investments of funds received through planned giving and other donations for the benefit of BNI. As with other endowed funds, the principal in the O’Connell Endowment generates interest earnings that can be provided to the school or reinvested in the fund.
The first interest draw on the O’Connell earnings, totaling $335,000, was earmarked – upon approval by BNI’s Board of Limited Jurisdiction and the Foundation’s board – to assist with the school’s renovation of its outdoor athletic facilities.
If you have any question, concerns or would like to chat with Ryan Julian about alumni events, giving, fundraising, etc. feel free to contact him at (219)-932-9058 or RJulian@BishopNoll.org.
The gift places the O’Connells in the 1921 Society, named for the school’s year of origin as Catholic Central High School. It recognizes benefactors who make a gift commitment to BNI in their estate plans.
We invite you to impact Bishop Noll’s future and join BNI’s Planned Giving “1921 Legacy Society.”
The 1921 Legacy Society, named for Catholic Central’s year of origin, recognizes benefactors who make a gift commitment in their estate plans. These gifts build a perpetual endowment to ensure BNI’s lasting success.
Gifts can include a simple donation, a bequest in a will or trust, life insurance, or a beneficiary in a qualified retirement fund.
A planned gift to BNI costs you nothing during your lifetime.
We invite you to become a member. Membership includes mention on the 1921 Legacy Society plaque, in the Noll Today magazine, and at a yearly Mass.
We are all beneficiaries of Bishop Noll’s first 100 years. Ensure our success for the next century! Contact Paul Mullaney, President, or Ryan Julian, Director of Advancement, at (219) 932-9058.
We have much to be thankful for when it comes to scholarships at Bishop Noll. Over the years, several alumni and friends have established scholarships in memory of a loved one, a classmate or to honor someone they admire. Over the past year, 10 scholarships were established, which will ease the burden of tuition costs for students and their families.
Paul A. Malatestinic ’85 Memorial Scholarship—Established by the Malatestinic family, this endowed scholarship honors the memory of Paul, and is awarded to a student who is strong in math and science and plans to major in engineering in college.
Tim ’54 and Mary Ann Downey Scholarship—Established by Tim and Mary Ann Downey in honor of BNI’s Centennial. This endowed scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need.
George ’72 and Mary Fitzpatrick Scholarship—Established by George and Mary Fitzpatrick in honor of BNI’s Centennial. This endowed scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need.
Katharina Kasper Scholarship—
Established by The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, founders of Catholic Central H.S. in honor of BNI’s Centennial. This endowed scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need.
James “Butch” Hajduch ’71 Memorial Scholarship—Established by the Hajduch Family, this endowed scholarship honors the memory of Butch Hajduch. Harold and Lucille Rueth Scholarship— Already an established scholarship, BNI received a bequest from the estate of Lucille Rueth which enables us to add to the scholarship fund to a level that allows us to endow this scholarship.
Richard J. Obsitnik ’52 Scholarship—
Through a generous bequest from the estate of Richard J. Obsitnik, this endowed scholarship will support students who excel in math and science who are planning on a career in engineering.
Michael C. ’85 and Lori ’85 Prahovich Whelan Scholarship—Awards two scholarships to students who are incoming freshmen in the Diocese of Gary who demonstrate strong character and academic ability.
Chloe Johnston ’12 Scholarship—Awards two scholarships to students of Black descent.
In addition, Al ’58 and Sharon Dubiak have made a bequest in their will that will endow a future scholarship in their name for a deserving BNI student.
The Class of 1972, in honor of its 50-year anniversary, has established a scholarship to support college expenses for a graduate from the Class of 2022.
Each spring at the annual Big Event fundraiser, one winning bidder earns the right to name the fieldhouse for one year. This year’s family dedicated the fieldhouse to their parents—Armando and the late Louise L. Garcia—for the love they gave as parents and the sacrifices made for their children’s education. Siblings Armando Jr. ’89, Robert ’91, Barbara ’91, Michael ’96, David ’98, Jennifer ’00 attended the dedication ceremony Feb. 25 and surprised their father during halftime of the boys basketball game.
giving back
If you are inspired to support any of these scholarships, please contact Ryan Julian, Director of Advancement, at RJulian@bishopnoll.org or call (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002.
Director Mr. Rocco Carioto and the BNI Band are set to have a historic year in 2022-23. The band is currently scheduled to travel to Tampa, Florida, this winter and perform at the College Football Reliaquest Bowl Game on Jan. 2, 2023! This event coincides with an ongoing effort at Bishop Noll organizing Alumni chapters and associations affiliated through sports, clubs and even geography. If you are currently a BNI band alumnus and are interested in helping the BNI Band achieve its financial and professional goals, please reach out to Director of Advancement Ryan Julian at RJulian@BishopNoll.org.
Baccalaureate Mass participants included Ethan Lopez and Jacqueline Garcia, who gave readings; Taylor Dafnis and Kayode Olaoye, who read the prayer of the faithful; and Kyle Elkins and Emily Lynch, who were gift bearers. Pictured is Jacqueline Garcia.
The members of the Bishop Noll Class of 2022 persevered through a pandemic and worked that much harder to reach their goals for high school beyond. They are attending different colleges and universities throughout the country and received in college scholarship offers.
Abigail Wojtaszek worked tirelessly for four years to become valedictorian. She is attending St. Mary’s College, Notre Dame, Ind., studying political science and theater. An accomplished student herself, she chose to focus her speech on the accomplishments of her classmates and the memories they shared. She closed by telling them, “We are the catalysts for change in the world. You are the catalysts for change in the world. We all hold the power to be a force for good, and the only thing keeping it locked up is our disbelief that we have such a thing. Your voice can shake the ground and create where there is nothing … If you have gained only one thing these four years, let it be that your beliefs are important … You are the good in the world, so be that light. Be that light of Christ for others.”
Anaiz Espinoza’s hard work and determination earned her the title of salutatorian. She is attending University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and majoring in biology on a pre-med track, aiming to become a pediatrician.
Her speech focused on expectations, those of her classmates before they entered Bishop Noll, and those of their class as they move onto the next phase of life.
“Even though a lot of what we expected didn’t happen or didn’t go exactly as planned, things that were least expected turned out to be the most memorable. …we learned that even when the world turned on its axis, we adapted and did the best we could.”
It’s not unusual for graduating classes of Bishop Noll Institute to earn millions of dollars in college scholarship offers, but it is unusual for one student to earn more than $1 million on his own. By the time Matthew Salazar walked across the graduation stage on June 3, he had received more than $1.1 million in college scholarship offers from 21 colleges. Salazar, who plans to study business, ultimately selected Purdue University in West Lafayette.
Choosing a high school four years ago was a tough decision, said Salazar, who attended public elementary school in Chicago.
“I decided to attend Bishop Noll even though I did not know many people. As my high school career came to an end, I realized that I made the right choice to attend Bishop Noll. The relationships I made here with the students and staff is something unbreakable, and the experiences and memories made are unforgettable.”
A true Warrior, Mary Klusas Puntillo shared stories and inspiring words with the Class of 2022 as commencement speaker.
The youngest of five Klusas children to attend BNI and the daughter of a Catholic Central alum, Mary went on to follow her Catholic faith both as a nurse and teacher. She serves as a neonatal nurse in the ICU and educates parents to prevent infant mortality, the death of a baby before his or her first birthday.
In 2018, she was honored as caregiver of the year in Indiana. That same year, she was named Community Hospital’s Nurse of the Year.
When Mary started her local efforts, the Northwest region had the highest infant mortality rate of any of Indiana's 11 regions. Today, it has the second-lowest infant mortality rate of the 11.
Puntillo spoke to students about returning home to Bishop Noll and all the paths she has taken since her own graduation.
“It’s been a great ride. I’m a Warrior. You’re a Warrior. We learned how to do this because we had a wonderful beginning.”
She reflected more on their shared history.
“Forty five years ago when I was here, I had Mr. Pikul in Chemistry 2 and Sister Imelda in calculus. There were times I was in tears outside class. Mr. Pikul said you can do it. Dig down deep and find it.
“He believed in me more than I was believing in myself…I did it. I’m a Warrior, and that’s what we do.
She closed by telling the audience, “I bleed blue and gold. I am a Warrior and that is the passion I’ve had throughout my life… we have had our ups and downs throughout life, but I got through it all and got where I am today because I’m a warrior. I knew that God was always beside me and sometimes leading me and sometimes having to carry me. I knew He was always there.
“I want you to remember—not necessarily my name or who I am—I want you to remember what I am saying. You are a Warrior!
“Every day I want you to look at yourself in the mirror and say I am a Warrior.
“Remember that means—strength, perseverance, love of others, love of God.
“You’re not just a Warrior. You’re a BNI Warrior. Always. Always and Forever.”
Recently, BNI had the opportunity to acquire and install air purification units from OceanAire for each classroom. The ability to acquire these units came through the American Rescue Plan of 2021, specifically the Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools Program inside the ARP. These units were installed in each classroom for the 2022–23 school year and will provide our students, faculty and staff with purified classroom air circulation, along with a cooling component that will help facilitate learning in the warmer months.
With record student numbers, several new teachers joined the BNI faculty this year. Three new faculty members are proud Bishop Noll alumni who have returned their alma mater.
Aibel Joseph has joined BNI as a senior theology teacher. He previously lived in London where he received a bachelor’s degree in theology, religion and ethics. He is working toward a master’s degree in theology, and comes to BNI through the Univ. of Notre Dame’s ECHO program.
“I am most looking forward to helping the seniors (as well as the rest of the school) think about their future, and who they are and want to be.”
Kennedy Castro, a 2016 graduate of BNI, has returned to her alma mater to teach chemistry. She has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana.
“I am excited to be a part of this family and to help spread my love of Noll to my students. I hope I become an influential part of my students’ time here at Noll, just as my teachers were to me.”
Carmen Ontiveros has joined BNI as the Director of Admissions. She has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Loyola University Chicago. Her minor was women’s studies.
“I look forward to making a positive impact on the BNI family by working together with my colleagues to ensure students achieve their academic goals and become successful in life.”
Maria Elena Patino has joined BNI as a Spanish 1 teacher. She has a bachelor’s degree in international language from Indiana University and is pursuing her master’s. She has two daughters who are BNI students.
“I hear other faculty members or past alumni who were students come back and work at BNI because they feel so happy and welcomed. This is important to me, because it takes a community to instill love and compassion in these students and that is the service that we are here to provide to them.”
Michael Roggenkamp has joined BNI as Director of Student Services. He has a master’s degree from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in counseling.
“I’m most looking forward to building a positive culture around mental health in the school and gaining positive relationships with faculty, students and families.”
Louis Santellano, a 1999 graduate of Bishop Noll, has returned to his alma mater to teach freshman theology and introduction to engineering and design. He has a bachelor’s degree from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit and associate degree in construction technology from Purdue University Northwest.
“I look forward to spreading the faith and growing my own faith.”
Jeff Smolinski has joined BNI teaching Theology 9. He recently retired from the Jewel/Osco grocery chain after more than four decades of service. He is currently in the Diocese of Gary Diaconate Program, “praying to answer my call to become a Deacon in the Catholic Church—Ordination is 2024.” He also taught religious education at St. John the Evangelist Parish for seven years.
“I love teaching freshman theology at BNI. I’ve been warmly welcomed by everyone!”
Lauren Skvorak has joined BNI in the English Department, teaching English 9 and 11. She student-taught at BNI in 2021 and holds a bachelor’s in English education from Purdue University Northwest.
“I’m very much looking forward to spending time at BNI with my students and getting to know the school community even more.”
Jose Arteaga, a 2013 BNI grad, has returned to his alma mater to teach DC US History & DC Government. He has bachelor’s degrees in political science and communication and a master’s in communication.
“I love the culture of the school and felt at home all during my time here as a student and after graduation. Growing up through a school where everyone is close-knit allows for deep friendships and relationships long after one graduates. Coming back was comfortable and exciting.”
Elizabeth Unzueta has joined BNI teaching Algebra 1. She has a bachelor’s degree in secondary education mathematics from DePaul University.
“I am most looking forward to meeting all my new students.”
As new faces were welcomed, others will be missed. Former campus minister Stacia Bolakowski left BNI to join the staff at Ancilla College, closer to her home. Math teacher Landey Marasas left as her family pursued new opportunities in a new city.
After more than three decades of teaching at Bishop Noll, senior Theology teacher Lydia Skurka ’74 retired at the end of the school year.
In addition to teaching senior theology, Skurka taught a wide range of subjects throughout her career, including world history, reading, psychology and all levels of theology.
She has many fond memories of BNI, and said she most enjoyed laughing with her students. During her student days at Bishop Noll, she was known as the “funny” person, and she continued to spread that joy as a teacher by sharing daily jokes with her students.
“She truly made my senior year great,” said Kaylee Sims ’22. “She’s always patient with me and encouraging. It’s always laughs and giggles in her class. My favorite memory was probably when we talked about when she was our age!”
Skurka plans to spend time with her grandsons, take some road trips and work as a substitute teacher at Noll.
“I always wanted to let my students see that one can be a lover and follower of Christ and still be a regular person who enjoys life,” said Skurka.
—Additional reporting by Nalaya Ochoa, JourNoll staff reporterThe spring production featured singing, dancing and …. roller skating! Pictured is Hailey Wojtaszek ’25 playing the role of Kira/Clio in “Xanadu.”
Her castmate Gerardo Garcia ’22 said, “What I learned from this experience is to move on and have fun. I was so worried about messing up the production since my role was a supporting character with a lot of dialogue but time with the character really helps you memorize the lines and gets you to be comfortable with the character you play.”
The Bishop Noll Drama Department will present its fall play, “Eurydice” by Sarah Ruhl, Nov. 18–20.
An enchanted evening Prom took place May 22 at Villa Cesare in Schererville with an enchanted forest theme. More than 200 attendees entered the room filled with draping, twinkle lights and ivy. They dined on heavy appetizers and enjoyed time dancing and taking photos.
Emily Lynch poses in the 360-degree photobooth, a hot spot of the event.
Photography: Melissa Carlos and Layne Krask were crowned prom queen and king.
Congratulations to BNI math teacher Mark Miller, who was honored in person this May for receiving the 2020 Teacher of the Year Award from the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The original dinner, planned for March 2020, had been postponed. Miller has taught mathematics at Bishop Noll for 14 years and loves the family atmosphere at the Catholic high school.
“I felt like I have belonged here since I first walked through the doors in 2008,” he said. “Earning this award makes me feel like I am making a difference.”
Miller (center) is pictured with English teacher Kevin Burgun, English/Mass Media teacher Marisa Renwald, assistant principal Jaime Cavazos and Principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick.
St. Thomas More Deacon Joseph Stodola recently received the prestigious Boy Scout Bronze Pelican Award. Deacon Joe has been an integral part of Boy Scout Pack 542, Den 3, helping young Scouts work their way through several religious awards, from the
Dave Dolak returned to the BNI classroom in May (after a two-year hiatus due to COVID). Always a popular guest speaker in our science classes, Dave speaks to students in environmental science about the geology of the region, as well as teaching the physics of musical instruments to our physics students. Dave is a member of the faculty at Columbia College Chicago.
“We became engaged two years later and were happily married earlier this year,” Theresa writes.
Butts has been appointed as chief executive officer of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Desert Canyon in the greater Las Vegas area. In her position as CEO, Butts oversees all of the day-to-day operations, as well as patient care and quality, at the 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital. She assumed the position in April 2022.
Franco Komyatte graduated summa cum laude May 7, 2022, from the University of Evansville as a third-year senior. His early graduation was in part thanks to his credits that carried over from BNI dual credit courses. Franco started his PhD in physical therapy on May 9 at the University of Evansville.
Light of Christ to the Parvuli Dei Awards and making their meetings more meaningful as he has shared his faith, positive (and funny) outlook and religious knowledge with these boys.
From helping them prepare for their awards to providing insight into Catholicism to giving tours of the church and Sacristy, he has helped these children have a better understanding of their faith.
He also is a regular at the annual July BNI golf outing.
Nancy Nau Sullivan is the author of the Blanche Murninghan Mystery Series. The third, Mission Improbable:Vietnam, launched in June from Light Messages Publishing. Nancy’s memoir, The Last Cadillac, and a novel, The Boys of Alpha Block, are based on life adventures— the latter on her five years teaching in a boys’ prison in Florida.
Deacon Paul Rokosz was ordained a permanent deacon on June 5, 2021, by Bishop Edward Weisenburger at St. Augustine Cathedral in Tucson, Ariz. He is assigned to St. George Parish in Apache Junction, Ariz.
With one vacation ending and one beginning, BNI 1976 alums Lee Smolen and Kevin O’Neill crossed paths in Dublin, Ireland, in August, when they offered an Irish toast to all of their BNI friends back home.
Butts earned a master’s degree in physical therapy from University of Evansville and a master’s degree in business health care administration from Wilmington University. She currently serves on the board of directors for Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports. She and her husband, Clint, have three children. Michele is a niece of Noll teacher Rosalie Schmidt and one of a long line of Hauter family members who attended Noll.
Brandon Fuentes has begun his senior year at the University of Arizona in Tucson. He is a physiology and medical science major, pursuing a track in premed. With a minor in public health, he interned this summer on Capitol hill with Northwest Indiana congressman Frank Mrvan.
Bianca Perez received a $3,300 scholarship from the Sociedad Cultural Y Civica La Reforma (SCCLR). She will be attending DePaul University and majoring in film and television. SCCLR has hosted the Night of Latin Culture at BNI for the past 14 years and the group’s president is Debra Bolaños ’76, right. Bolaños is a member of the East Chicago City Council, serving as a Councilwoman at Large.
Tim Cichon is a guitarist with the cover band Visions of Santana.
Pictured, Tim is rocking Wicker Park in June as part of the Wicker Park Summer Concert Series. 1991, 1995
Theresa Barlo Waszak ’95 and Rich Waszak ’91 recently wed thanks to a BNI love connection. Theresa’s sister
Annie Barlo Jones ’99 and her husband, Nick ’98, introduced the happy couple in June 2018.
As part of his major, Fuentes had the opportunity to work as an undergrad research assistant in the university’s sleep lab. He served as lead writer on a paper published in the National Sleep Society’s sleep health journal. Following PR done by the journal, Fuentes’ abstract, titled “Bed sharing and its effect on sleep and mental health,” was carried in some form by nearly 100 media outlets.
As the History Committee iswrapping up work on Noll’s100-year history book,they would like to thankall the people who haveprovided information andmemorabilia to make this avery comprehensive history.If any alumni still haveitems, books, or pamphletsthat they would like todonate, they would be mostwelcome. Please jflorek@bishopnoll.orgemailto arrange item donations.
The fashions at Catholic Central High School/Bishop Noll Institute have come and gone, but the memories of these stylish moments in school history remain.
Girls begin wearing uniforms on Dec. 9, 1929. They wear blue serge dresses with ties that vary in color based on grade level.
By the 1934-35 school year, girls no longer wear uniforms but they often sport white decorative collars to enhance their dresses. Ann Timko ’35 shows this fashion in her senior picture.
Girls are to wear uniforms—various plaid skirts with blazers or cardigans. Colors are determined by grade. In addition, they wear white blouses with pointed collars, nylons and suitable shoes. Boys are were to wear clean pressed trousers, a light colored shirt and tie with shoes polished and masculine haircuts.
Celebrate all things BNI this Christmas with Christmas cards designed by art students. Cards will be sold in packs of 12 cards and include different designs by students the past few years.
Cards will cost $15 for a dozen, with proceeds going toward the Annual Fund. Shipping is available for an extra $7 per dozen.
Need a gift for the Warrior in your life? Purchase a DVD copy of “Forever Noll: 100 years of Mind, Body and Soul,” a documentary DVD celebrating Bishop Noll’s 100 years of history in the Region. Narrated by Phil Ponce ’67, the video includes interviews with Noll alumni and thousands of photos spanning 10 decades.
of
cards
per
you like to receive your cards? (choose one)
Please ship to me for an additional fee (extra $5 per dozen of cards, DVD shipping at no charge)
I will pick up at Bishop Noll main office.
checks payable to Bishop Noll Institute and return with form to: BNI Advancement Office, 1519 Hoffman St., Hammond, IN 46327
The summer uniform is introduced. This includes a yellow polo option that could be worn with khacki bermuda length shorts.
New uniforms are introduced to include boys and offer a pant option for girls. Girls can choose between monogrammed sweaters with colors dependent on their class year or a blazer. They wear silk ties tied into a bow. Boys are to wear navy or gray pants, an Oxford shirt, optional v-neck sweater and a school tie colorcoordinated to grade.
White monogrammed turtlenecks are worn under v-neck sweaters. School ties, plaid skirts or slacks and white collared dress shirts complete the look.
New uniforms are introduced. Summer uniform options are now a navy blue polo, khacki bermuda shorts or plaid skirts.The winter uniform with pants, skirt, sweater, shirt and tie started Oct. 1. One school, one color for the sweaters—navy.
Cardigans became an option to add to girl uniforms in the late 1960s.
In 1972, due to the energy crisis in the world at large, girls were allowed to wear pants as thermostats were lowered.
Incoming freshmen in 1986 would be the last group to wear brown uniforms.
The average uniform in 2003 cost $150. That included school sweaters and mandatory ties.
Donation: $10.00
Drawing: November 29, 2022 at Bishop
All proceeds to benefit Bishop Noll Institute Winner need not be present. Winner must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license or state issued I.D. Raffle license # 000575
Call BNI for information about how to purchase tickets.
ext.
WHEN June 13, 2022
WHERE Briar Ridge Country Club
WHO Organized by members of the Whelan and Cipowski families in honor of the late Mary M. Whelan. 130 golfers attended.
SUCCESS This event raised almost $100,000
The outing started as a one-time event in 2012 to pay for the renovation of the auditorium and this was the 10th outing. The event was skipped in 2020 due to COVID.
“Special thanks to Terry Whelan and Jason Cipowski for all of their help and continuous support,” said Michael ’85 and Lori ’85 Prahovich Whelan. “We couldn’t have this event without their help. Several companies and golfers have been supporting the event since the beginning. This year we had Molly Whelan ’25 to help with the event. She is following in the footsteps of her cousins who assisted—Shannon ’12 and Megan ’17.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: To view sponsors, see the 2021-22 Annual Report in this issue.
WHEN July 18, 2022
WHERE Innsbrook Country Club WHO Hosted by the Bishop Noll Advancement Department, alumni showed incredible support with more than 120 golfers attending.
SUCCESS The event raised $20,981.00. Tickets to the event sold out!
Player Gifts: Anonymous ’71, Anonymous ’96
Dinner: Notre Dame Federal Credit Union
Cocktail Hour: Calumet City Plumbing; Timothy Mertz ’63, Marty Tintari ’66, Bob Vellutini ’63, Jim Vellutini ’90
Hole-in-One Sponsor: TEAM Volkswagen-Audi, Merrillville, Indiana Auction Sponsor: Innsbrook Country Club
Hole Sponsors: 313 Taproom, American Community Bank, Area Sheet Metal, Inc., Big Shoulders Fund, Circle Buick GMC— Highland, Indiana, Don Powers Agency, FABSCO Corp./ Kevin O’Neill ’76, HDW Commercial Interiors, Kusiak Construction/Dave Kusiak ’87, Lisa Kozlowski Kusiak ’88, Minnesota BNI Alumni, Proven IT, Rodzina Properties, LLC/ Cipowski Family, Sherman Dodge Skokie,Illinois, Strack & Van Til’s, Knights of Columbus #10596
Young Alumni Sponsors: Dan ’68 and Leah Rosen ’69 Marias, Duane Stanek ’59, Rick Tolin ‘83, In-Kind Gifts: BNI Hockey, Jeff Cipowski ’83, Adrian Santos North Township Trustee, Ravisloe Country Club, Doherty Images/ Pete Doherty ’71, Epic Popcorn, Innsbrook Country Club, Matthew Sandoval ’13, Anonymous ’79
Cipowski: Don ’61 & Claudia, Jeff ’83, Karen ’85 Jason ’92, Joel ’95, DJ ’97
Doherty: Paul ’68, Pete ’71, Phil ’74, Beth ’75, Jean ’82, John ‘84 Lorenz: Stu & Bonnie, Tim ’06, Chris ’10, Robby ’13 Molina: Luis ’72, Veronica ’96, Alex ’98 Ramker: Mike ’63, Marnie ’66, Rich ’67, Gerry ’74, Jean ’76, Anita ’78, Tom ’01, Christine ’92, Patrick ’06, Andrew ’09 Tolin: David ’75, Mary Lynn ’79, Ricky ’83, Caryn ’89, Michael ’96
WHEN July 18, 2022—coinciding with Alumni & Friends Golf Outing
WHERE Innsbrook Country Club
WHEN April 29, 2022
WHERE BNI Fieldhouse, and Online
WHO More than 200 guests attended the event, including several members of the class of 1982 who had their reunion that night. Hundreds more browsed and bid online. In-person guests enjoyed food catered by Dal Santo’s, beer, wine, entertainment and raffles.
SUCCESS Bishop Noll’s largest single day fundraiser of the year, which supports scholarship funds for students, raised more than $57,926.
The Big Event returned to its pre-pandemic form, but with a hybrid event. More than 100 items were auctioned, including a week in Sanibel Island, golf at North Shore Country Club and homemade pierogi by BNI’s “Polish Grandma” Teresa Radziwiecki. Other top bid earners were the popular Off the Wagon liquor collection donated by BNI staff and administrators, and the BNI fieldhouse sponsorship purchased by theWilliamson family.
EDITOR’S NOTE: To view a listing of this year’s Big Event sponsors, please see the 2021–22 Annual Report in this issue.
The Bishop Noll Helicopter Ball Drop returned for a second year and took place before golf began. Participants purchased numbered golf balls for $25, or five for $100. New this year, with an entry of $100 or more, a second contest opened to entrants where they could purchase a red ball for $50 each. Red balls were eligible for the closest-to-the-pin contest as well as a 50/50 prize. Balls were dropped over the target and the 10 golf balls settling closest to the pin won cash prizes and were eligible for a $100,000 grand prize. Unfortunately, we did not have a grand prize winner this year but cash prizes were awarded to 10 participants. In addition, one red ball purchased received the 50/50 prize of $1.275.
The inaugural gathering of the Minnesota chapter of Bishop Noll alumni took place in May at the home of Dan ’74 and Marsha Hunt in Edina, MN. It was great to see alumni from 1960 to 1994 come out, share Noll memories and hear from BNI President Paul Mullaney ’77.
The Minnesota chapters joins Arizona alums as the first groups in a more structured Alumni Association.
Similar discussions were held in Florida and in the Indianapolis area.
“In addition to geographic alumni chapters, we want to develop alumni affinity groups,” said Mullaney. “Original discussions have included starting such groups for band alumni, choir alumni, Black alumni, young alumni. Some athletic teams already have utilized Facebook pages to keep alumni student-athletes engaged with the teammates and the activity that meant so much to them while at Noll. Of course, these geographic and affinity groups are in addition to the graduation class structure that already exists (but can continue to grow).
“These efforts are a win-win for our alumni and for Noll. Our alums maintain longstanding friendships, can network anew with fellow alums they might not yet know, look forward to special events in their own back yards, and receive regular communication from their alma mater. In the process, increased connectivity with Noll can lead to increased benefits to our BNI students. We have seen our wonderfully accomplished alumni speak to our students, mentor our students and support our students and our mission in many ways.”
For more information, please email Ryan Julian, director of advancement, at Rjulian@bishopnoll.org.
The Bishop Noll Class of 1965 had a 75th birthday/57th reunion party in June. Festivities included a Friday night meet and greet at Bullpen with a reunion dinner on June 11 at Andorra Banquets. Classmates honored Ted Zagar, who passed away in January, by having a seat for him at the banquet. Ted had planned the 2003 class reunion.
“Because of our separate gender schools we are still meeting people who graduated with us,” said reunion organizer Elaine Bielefeld. “That’s great incentive to keep having parties, and our committee of about a dozen are already talking about the 60th in 2025.”
The Class of 1971 recently held its 50+1 Year reunion in Bishop Noll’s cafeteria and auditorium lobby on Aug. 27. There were 100 attendees in total with 71 classmates in attendance.
“It was truly a blessing to be back at Noll where it all started” was the message heard from everyone!
Father Theodore Mens, a former teacher at Noll from 1967 to 1975, provided the blessing before dinner. Remarks and recollection by classmates Geralyn LaMere-Schroeder and Gregory Vega were touching, inspirational and reflective of the time they shared together as the Class of 1971.
The evening was filled with laughter and joy as classmates recalled their earlier days. The room was beautifully decorated with
florals and balloons. It provided a great atmosphere for the music, slideshows and memorials to departed classmates.
Many thanks to the committee and to all the help provided by Bishop Noll, especially Juli Sandoval, BNI Events Coordinator. BNI President Paul Mullaney was on hand as well to deliver a warm ‘Warrior” welcome and an update on the great happenings at Bishop Noll.
For more information and photos, visit the class Facebook group: Class of 1971 Bishop Noll Institute Alumni.
More than 65 classmates attended the Class of 1972 50th reunion dinner on June 4 at White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point. The reunion weekend saw 84 classmates in attendance at three different events, including a poolside reception June 3 and Mass followed by brunch at Bishop Noll June 5. For more photos, see the class Facebook group: 1972 Bishop Noll alumni.
The Class of 1982 had a reunion at BNI’s Big Event April 29. At the reunion, classmates honored Juli Korem Sandoval ’82 with a plaque thanking her for her years of service at Bishop Noll.
The night after the Big Event, classmates gathered for food and drink at Northwoods in St. John. For more photos and information, visit the class Facebook group: Bishop Noll Class of 82.
“I feel fortunate that we were able to meet in relative safety given what has occurred over the past couple of years. Since we are connected by Noll, I am comfortable in thanking God for having made that possible. I know how much it lifted my spirit to be among a large group of friends for the first time in quite a while. With Christ, all things are possible.”
—Jay ViaterIf you have a graduation year ending in a 3 or a 8, 2023 is a reunion year for you! The first thing your reunion committee will need is a class list. The Advancement Office at Bishop Noll will gladly provide you with our most updated class list. If you would like to list your class reunion information on our website, we're happy to do that as well. Just contact Ryan Julian, Director of Institutional Advancement, rjulian@bishopnoll.org or Jennifer Florek, communications specialist, at jflorek@bishopnoll.org.
Classmates are planning a 10th reunion. Please contact Jordan Kusiak Galgan at jordankusiak@gmail.com.
A reunion will take place from 6 to 11 p.m. Feb. 25, 2023, at the Design Barn.
Search BNI Class of 93 reunion on Facebook for more information.
sports
Cynthia Wilson (right), a veteran Region athletics administrator, was named Bishop Noll Institute’s athletic director this spring.
Wilson has 18 years of experience as an athletics administrative assistant at East Chicago Central and Calumet high schools, and served the past year as interim athletic director at EC Central.
Wilson—who also has coached volleyball, softball and girls basketball at EC Central, Calumet and Griffith high schools over the past 20 years—said she is looking forward to becoming a part of Bishop Noll’s rich history of academic and athletic success.
“I am extremely excited to join the BNI family,” Wilson said. “Bishop Noll has a rich tradition in athletics, and I am happy to continue growing that tradition. I was honored to be offered the athletic director position and look forward to helping our studentathletes on their path to their future endeavors.”
Anna Cervantes (left) has joined BNI as athletics assistant. She is a communications major at Purdue University Northwest.
“I am excited to work hard and give back to the students and community in a friendly and faith-filled environment!
Ms. Wilson and I are dedicated to athletics and we hope to see a positive impact this year and beyond."
Congratulations to Ethan Lopez and Adrianna Alvarez who received the Dr. John Wadas Jr. DDS Memorial Scholarship for their outstanding contributions to their teams, school and community. Awarded annually since 2000, the Wadas scholarship commemorates 1957 Bishop Noll graduate Dr. John J. Wadas. The scholarship began with the generous support of Peoples Bank to commemorate Wadas’ life and contributions to BNI and his family.
Lopez, who played both baseball and bowling, is attending the University of Illinois. Alvarez, who was on the cheer and track teams, is attending Purdue University Northwest.
“Our Dad was a big supporter of BNI athletics and the school. The verbiage on the plaque is a great reflection of what kind of person he was and what the award embodies for today’s student athlete. The years and times have changed, but the meaning remains the same,” said Amy Wadas Hogge ’88.
“It is always fun to give these awards every year because we get to see our Dad still being remembered for his character in these
wonderful young adults. We also get to learn about their future paths and what they will hope to become. It feels like a passing of the torch of BNI student athletes.
Bishop Noll gives you a strong foundation to start and prepares you to go out into the world and be successful like our Dad. Being a student athlete requires even more. Hopefully, these student athletes will continue to pass on what they have experienced and learned on to others,” Amy Wadas said.
Golf caddie’s hard work pays off with full ride scholarship Kayode Olaoye ’22 set big college goals for himself, and he began turning them into a reality at a young age. Thanks to his foresight and dedication, and inspiration from his siblings, he is attending Purdue University in West Lafayette this fall with a full scholarship.
When Olaoye, who plans to study biomedical engineering, set his sights on earning the prestigious Evans Scholarship like his sister and brother did before him, he did so knowing that the journey would be difficult but not impossible.
“I knew to gain this title I had to make sure I excelled on multiple fronts, such as my skill set on the golf course, as well as my academic, home and athletic life,” said Olaoye, of Hammond.
The Evans Scholarship is a full housing and tuition college grant offered to golf caddies. In summer 2018, Olaoye began his caddie journey. He maintained high grades throughout his education and was named a Graduate with Distinction at Bishop Noll his senior year, a title reserved for students who earn at least a 4.0 GPA.
At Bishop Noll, Olaoye was on the soccer and track teams all four years, and joined the golf team his junior year. Olaoye also served as a school Student Ambassador and was a member of the Black Student Union, Speech team, National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society in addition to serving as a religious retreat leader his senior year.
“Being granted the title Evans Scholar, as well as a full ride scholarship, has blessed me and my family with new opportunities and burdens relieved,” he said.
Nick Wichlinski, a 2019 graduate of Bishop Noll and fellow recipient of the Evans Scholarship, is a senior at Purdue Unviversity West Lafayette studying human resource development. He is current president of the Purdue Evans Scholar House with plans to start sending out resumes and applying for a full-time position in the coming months.
Throughout the summer, Nick completed an internship at American Community Bank in St. John, where he learned what it is like to work in a typical corporate environment. Nick is excited to foster a welcoming and encouraging environment for the incoming freshmen class, as well as make improvements to the house that will be used for years to come.
Rich Sobilo ’83, a multisport Bishop Noll athlete who went on to play hockey at Notre Dame and coach various sports at BNI, was inducted into the East Chicago Athletic Hall of Fame on Sept. 10. Sobilo played football, baseball, basketball and hockey at BNI. He was the football team’s MVP his senior year and a two-time MVP of the hockey team.
At Notre Dame, where he earned his engineering degree, Sobilo won three monograms playing hockey and led the Irish in multiple statistical categories.
Since college, Sobilo has coached at Bishop Noll in various sports and was responsible for resurrecting the Warriors hockey program in 2014–15. The team has gone on to great success. Sobilo now works as an engineer at BP’s Whiting Refinery. He and his wife, Cathy, live in Whiting. Their children Elena and Alex are BNI graduates, and Elena currently serves as the Warriors’ head softball coach.
Congratulations to Wally Kasprzycki ’75 on his induction May 2 into the Indiana Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
More than four dozen of Wally’s BNI teammates, classmates, former players, faculty, family and friends—traveling from coast to coast—came to support the man who has been a Bishop Noll icon since his school days. His induction for accomplishments as a player and longtime Warriors coach originally was scheduled for 2021 but had been postponed due to the pandemic. He was one of 10 inductees.
Wally, a Parade All-American and Indiana All-Star tight end/ defensive end his senior year at BNI, also competed on Noll’s basketball and track teams. He earned eight varsity letters at BNI. He received a football scholarship to attend Northwestern
University, where he became a starting tight end for three seasons and earned his bachelor’s degree in economics in 1980.
Wally returned to Bishop Noll in 1981 to assist his former coach, Jerry Vlasic, on the Warriors’ staff. He served as defensive coordinator on BNI’s 1989 state championship team and was a coach for 36 years, under eight BNI head coaches, before stepping down after the 2016 season. Wally said he was honored to follow in the footsteps of his mentor, Coach Vlasic, who was inducted into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
A lifelong Hammond resident, Wally and his wife, Nora, raised two sons (Wally III and Will) who graduated from Bishop Noll in 2011 and 2013, respectively. He currently is owner/operator of the Cavalier Inn, which his family has operated in North Hammond since 1949.
PAST RECIPIENTS: Bishop Noll’s previous inductees were Mike McGill ’64, who went on to play at Notre Dame and with the Minnesota Vikings, and Karl Huffine, coach of Bishop Noll’s 1951 mythical state championship team (before IHSAA state football playoffs were instituted).
Sectional Champs The boys basketball team captured BNI’s 17th boys basketball sectional championship, winning a thrilling 66–63 game over 10th ranked Lake Station. They lost to Central Noble in Regional competition at North Judson.
Larry Bentley classic The Bishop Noll Baseball Team honored Larry Bentley during the first Larry Bentley Alumni Classic event May 6. Although rain canceled the game planned to coincide with the ceremony, an indoor celebration was still held at The Kube in Hammond.
The son and grandson of Larry Bentley, Kurt and Kayden Bentley, are pictured with BNI baseball coaches Ryan Julian, left, and Jeff Stur '98. Coach Bentley began his teaching career at Holy Angels School in Gary and then
taught History for 31 years at Bishop Noll where he was also associated with the baseball program from 1984–1998. Coach Larry “LB” Bentley, left a lasting impact on the young men and women of BNI. He is the prime example of what makes Bishop Noll different from our competitors.
College Ball Ahmad Artis signed to Paris College in Texas. Cheri Michalek will be playing basketball at Dominican University and Abigail Heintz signed with Indiana University Northwest to continue her soccer career. Adrianna Alvarez is on the cheer team at Purdue University Northwest.
• Past director of youth ministry at Saint Paul Church in Valparaiso
• Served as a missionary for the Catholic Youth Ministry movement Life Teen
• Bachelors of theology with a philosophy minor from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
Q: Can you tell us about what your role will entail at Bishop Noll?
As campus minister, I make sure the school stays focused on our Catholic identity and living out our call to make sure our students don’t just have sharp minds, but compassionate hearts. I will be in charge of organizing and running the retreats for each of the classes. I also organize the liturgies at the school.
Q: What brought you to BNI?
(BNI Chaplain) Fr. Jeff Burton texted me about the job and it just felt like God was calling me to look into the job and apply. Fr. Jeff said he thought I would be a good fit, and the rest is history.
Q: What are you most looking forward to?
Getting to know the students and to watch them grow into great men and women of faith.
Q: Why is your Catholic faith important to you?
I really started to understand the Catholic faith while I was in high school, and since then it has always guided my life. It has led me to study what I loved and what interested me (theology) and to people who have shaped my life, including my wife of 8 years. My faith has connected me to others from around the world and keeps me striving to be the best version of myself.
Q: What are your goals for the year?
To get to know as many of the staff and students as I can and find the best way I can serve the families of Bishop Noll.
Q: Who is your favorite saint and why?
St. John of the Cross, who is also my confirmation Saint. I chose him at first because I thought his name sounded cool but later learned how he helped lead a renewal of the Carmelite order and wrote many spiritual works. He has been named a doctor of the church. Many of St John’s writings challenged me spiritually but especially “Dark Night of the Soul.”
Q: Can you tell us about your life outside of work?
I have a loving wife I have been married to for 8 years and 3 kids (ages 6,4, and 4 months). I also have a dog and a cat. I love watching and playing soccer (mostly with my kids at this point). I also play disc golf with my father. I play video games, board games and Dungeons & Dragons when I get the chance.
The first all school Mass of the school year took place Aug. 28 in the BNI Fieldhouse.
Please remember those who have gone to their eternal rest.
1939 Kathryn “Kay” Dobos
1941 Bernice Schrepfer Hill
1942 Joseph Alishio
1945 Loretta Echterling Wolak
1947 Joan Ginther Nejdl
1948 Janet White Mead
1948 Raymond C. Pawlowski
1949 Catherine Thomas Bollhorst
1949 Robert A. Nelson
1949 John A. Seyda
1950 Collette Santay
1951 Anita Nondorf Gross
1951 Muriel Hamilton Matsey
1952 Joan A. Pfeifer Krieter
1953 Carol Michael Kerekes
1953 Thomas Anthony Richard Polito
1953 Mary Louise Vincent
1955 Judith Lynn Arcella
1955 Ronald Arcella
1955 Patricia Boberski
1955 Ralph Fabbri, Jr.
1955 Gloria M. Tatarek Lentvorsky
1955 Raymond Michalski
1955 Mary McGroarty Obremski
1955 Frances Fanno Phipps
1955 Dorothy O’Connor Follmar
1955 Theodore “Ted” Matovina
Mr. Gorgi taught chemistry and biology in 1974–75.
Mr. Zagar taught science in 1972–73.
Mrs. Cowperthwaite was a beloved librarian at Bishop Noll from 1991–2014
Ms. Smith was a biology teacher, coach and Dean of Girls from 1976–1991
Ms. Bronowski taught in Catholic schools in Illinois and Indiana for many years before retiring from Bishop Noll. She was a theology teacher at BNI from 1992–2003.
BNI employee for more than 10 years in various support roles.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen
If there is someone who has passed away who is part of the Bishop Noll family, we appreciate you letting us know. You can contact Ryan Julian at (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002, or rjulian@bishopnoll.org.
1955 Charles J. Thiel
1956 Nancy M. Bejger
1957 Patrick W. Stodola
1957 Irene Misch Monberg
1958 Consuelo “Connie” Rodriguez Camacho
1958 Eugene Rodriguez
1958 Martin Fortunak
1958 Terry Mellon
1958 Cerise Selvaggi Patterson
1958 Mary Lee Bell Thiel
1959 Robert Gawlikowski
1959 Jerry Joppek
1959 Robert S. Selvaggi
1960 Frank J. Morales
1960 Mithcell Skaggerberg
1960 Connie Gargas Smith
1960 Kenneth Somenzi
1961 Eugene M. Daniel
1962 Kenneth Nowlan, Jr.
1962 Janet Neiner Somenzi
1963 William “Bill” Adams 1963 Nancy Yonke Westerfield
1964 Madalon Baum
1964 Philip R. Frechette
1964 Lawrence A. Giannini
1964 Tina Hoffman Strug
1965 Rosemary Dan 1965 Bernadette “Bunny” Fijut King
1965 Ann Purcell Kuick
1965 John Sabo
1965 Deacon Daniel W. Zurawski
1965 Ted Zagar
1966 Daniel Jasinski
1967 David Heacock
1967 Alexander Kozlowski
1967 Loretta Kandalec Ruzich
1968 Thomas Obremski
1968 Edward P. Orlowski
1969 Susan Romanak Kinkade
1971 Gerard J. Balon
1971 Fred Lipka
1972 Richard D. Cannon
1972 Michael Mindock
1972 Judith Rae Phelps
1973 Melanie Alexander 1973 George Paulauski
1973 Christine Nowinski Walter
1974 Michael D. Lewers
1976 Rosalyn Lee
1977 Steven Bramer
1980 Jeanine Lamy Lamanna
1983 Ferne Mills Isom
1987 Joseph J. Balitewicz
Our hearts are saddened by the passing Aug. 25 of the Most Rev. Dale J. Melczek, bishop emeritus of the Diocese of Gary. Bishop Melczek died after suffering a stroke that left him unresponsive, according to Bishop Robert J. McClory.
The Bishop Noll Institute community remains grateful for Bishop Melczek’s decades of service and leadership.
“Bishop Dale was a wonderful and faithful shepherd to the people of Gary,” BNI President Paul Mullaney said. “We saw it through his engagement with our team and student body at Noll and with the other schools, parishes and ministries in the Diocese of Gary.
“Proof of his desire to serve the people was seen in the fervor and energy he displayed when taking on the role of pastor of St. Mary of the Lake in Miller after retiring as bishop. How many people in any line of work jump back in to fulltime work in their seventies after already retiring?”
Mullaney cited a line often spoken by Bishop Melczek that he uses as a personal motivation.
“Bishop Dale would say, ‘We want to remember who we are, but more importantly, Whose we are,’ ” Mullaney said. “I find myself using that line when speaking about our ministry at BNI.”
In May 2014, Bishop Melczek was inducted into Bishop Noll’s Hall of Honor in recognition of his outstanding leadership
Eternal rest grant unto Bishop Melczek, O Lord, and perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, rest in peace. Amen.
POSTAGE PAID Hammond, IN Permit No. 92 1519 Hoffman Street, Hammond, IN 46327 (219) 932-9058
After numerous and impactful indoor improvements at Bishop Noll over the past decade, attention turns outdoors as we look to upgrade our tired athletic facilities.
More than $4 million has been secured for a vision that calls for an artificial turf surface for football and soccer competition; BNI’s first regulation 8-lane outdoor track; a renovated softball field with permanent dugouts; new bleachers and lighting; and such amenities as new restrooms, locker rooms and concessions facilities.
To
please contact either:
Paul Mullaney, BNI President, pmullaney@bishopnoll.org, ext. 1519 Ryan Julian, Director of Advancement, rjulian@bishopnoll.org, ext. 1002
We need to pass the $4.2 million mark to begin construction, and you can help us get there. Please consider helping us provide the type of top-notch outdoor facilities our students deserve.