making a difference at
IN THIS ISSUE
Mind, Body, Soul: Warriors continue the tradition
Big Event: Support student scholars
Reunite: Alumni reconnect at BNI events
Bishop Noll’s first Black valedictorian and its legacy salutatorian.
Full story on P. 3.
Greetings BNI Warriors and BNI Supporters,
Warrior life is in full swing here at 1519 Hoffman, where we have been busy serving the largest student body in the past two decades and preparing for continued growth. Our building looks great as we have remodeled spaces and added new technology, and our students look happier and healthier as we have maintained our goal of preparing students’ minds, bodies and souls through the past several years of turbulence. I’m thankful to say our Warrior family is stronger from what we learned through the pandemic, and we are ready to move forward in our classrooms, on our stage, and on our fields as we continue to do God’s work and as our students share their gifts and talents!
This academic year has allowed us to get back on track. As I walk the hallways, I see students re-engaged in blended learning, having conversations, doing experiments, and learning through hands-on activities. I see teachers and students taking advantage of top-of-the-line technology in classes such as photography, graphic design, Mass Media, Intro to Engineering and more! BNI is finding the perfect balance between utilizing technology to teach our students the necessary skills for the future and balancing that with the social skills to communicate, problem solve and think critically.
Outside of classrooms, students are reengaging in extracurricular activities. Our band performed this January in Tampa, Florida; and our hockey team brought home the 3A state championship title this March.
As spring grew near, I saw BNI alumni coming home to Noll to eat pollock at the renewed BNI Fish Fry-days, and I heard students talking in the hallways about what their dresses would look like for the Spring Fling. As principal, I take a deep breath, exhale, and say “thank you” to our good Lord and Savior!
We are currently in the season of Lent, but by the time you are reading this, we will be celebrating the Easter season where—through the sacrifice of Our Lord—we are given salvation. This year, I believe Easter will be extra special as I celebrate with the students of Bishop Noll: more smiles, more joy, more energy. As an alum, I share with you that BNI is on track and ready to continue to do God’s work in Northwest Indiana! As we excitedly anticipate growth into the next school year, I know we will have growth in numbers; but most importantly, we will have growth in mind, body, and soul!
God Bless, Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01 Principal New TechZury Ortega works on a project in Photoshop as part of her Digital Design class. Students are learning graphic design from Mrs. Hannah Dominiak Lareau ’12 through professional programs like Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, Photoshop and more. Following college, Lareau worked as graphic designer before returning to Noll as a teacher. She is one of several young alumni educating the next generation of students in the Diocese of Gary. Read more of their stories on the next page.
Bishop 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.
2022–23 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Paul Mullaney ’77, President
Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, Principal
Lisa Melendez, Assistant 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
2022–23 BOARD OF LIMITED JURISDICTION
Most Reverend Robert J. McClory, Bishop Dr. Joseph Majchrowicz ’73, Superintendent 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
2022–23 FOUNDATION MEMBERS
Terry Quinn, President
Marlene Vega Coulis ’79, Vice President
Rev. Dominic Bertino, Treasurer
Courtney Hilbrich Markovich ’95, Secretary Kenneth Wilk ’66
We have two corrections to make to the Fall 2022 Annual Report. We regret these errors.
On the In Memoriam page, the gift should have been listed as:
“In Memory of Kevin Andrew Garza”
Christine Renee Garza ’87
On the Honor Roll of Donors, John Dodd ’72 should have been listed as a Scholar Society level donor. We regret this omission.
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.
Contact us
Noll Today is written and published in the Office of Advancement. Contact Jennifer Florek at jflorek@bishopnoll.org with questions and story ideas.
Director of Advancement
Ryan Julian, Bishop Noll Advancement Office 1519 Hoffman St., Hammond, IN 46327 (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002 rjulian@bishopnoll.org bishopnoll.org
Throughout the Diocese of Gary, and in education systems throughout the country, Bishop Noll alumni have gone from being students to serving as teachers and administrators, impacting the next generations throughout their professional journeys.
Dr. Joseph Majchrowicz, a 1973 graduate of BNI who is in his seventh and final year as the superintendent of schools, said the reason so many alumni return to the diocese is simple.
“Being raised and educated in this environment makes you want to give back or pay it forward. It becomes a part of your professional DNA. You cannot help but want to become involved in such a wonderful Catholic team effort experience.”
Majchrowicz’s own path to heading the education sector of the Diocese of Gary was set into motion during his formative years at St. John Bosco and Noll. As the youngest of five children, he said he could not wait to be part of the BNI Warrior Family tradition as a young teen in 1969. He now spreads that excitement throughout the diocese and is proud to be associated with so many caring and dedicated individuals. He admires their “sincere love for their students along with their caring attitude, dedication and perseverance in what they need to do to meet the needs of those they serve so well.”
Rich Radziwiecki ’84, Noll’s maintenance supervisor, appreciates the chance to maintain the building that shaped his formative years while working in the same place where his mom, Theresa Radziwiecki, worked for 20 years as a custodian.
“After spending four years at Noll as a student in a very nurturing and professional environment, it was a no-brainer to come back to Noll in 1998 when an opportunity to work there was available for me,” he said. Hannah Dominiak Lareau ’12, BNI digital design and photography teacher, graduated from college and began her professional career before finding herself led back to Noll to take on a teaching role.
“I think the reason so many alumni come back to Bishop Noll is because of the sense of family and community,” she said. “There’s something special in coming back to work at the place that shaped you and feeling so valued. I think it’s important to work at a place like BNI because you get to contribute to a place that makes a lasting difference in young lives and in the community.”
Lou Santellano ’99, BNI theology and engineering teacher, worked several years in the construction world before joining the faculty at his alma mater this school year.
“I came back for a number of reasons. I really can't imagine teaching at any other school. I always felt a connection to my Catholic faith through the Diocese of Gary. When I saw the opportunity to become part of Bishop Noll, I decided I'd apply and trust that God (through the team at BNI) would know what He was doing. Also, I know a lot of staff and faculty. I immediately felt safe being here. I was initially intimidated when thinking about taking positions that some of my favorite teachers held, but then I realized I could never be those teachers but I can be myself. I truly feel like I'm standing on the shoulders of giants walking on sacred ground. I pray every day that I am following the hopes and dreams of all the people who taught and worked here before me.”
Danielle Flores ’16 spent her first year and a half teaching at a nearby public school before hearing of an open English faculty position at Noll this winter.
“I was so excited at the thought of returning, not only because it is my alma mater, but also because I was excited to begin teaching in a
By the Numbers6 Gary Diocesan elementary schools have principals who are BNI alumni.
2 additional elementary schools have principals who previously worked at BNI.
school like Noll, which is known for its rigor and proven track record of student success. Noll has such a high rate of alumni employees because of its unique sense of community and dedication to excellence. The culture is driven by Bishop Noll’s commitment to developing students’ mind, body and soul and creates an incredible environment where students are held to, and often exceed, high expectations in both academics and character.”
5 members of the BNI Class of 2012 began their teaching careers in the Diocese of Gary in recent years.
15 BNI alumni work at Bishop Noll.
Flores said making her former teachers proud, seeing old assignments of hers they have kept and experiencing the Noll community as a teacher has been a special experience.
“My mom, a single parent of three, sacrificed nearly everything to give my brothers and me the opportunity to attend Noll. Because of that sacrifice I appreciated my education when I was a student, but now, as a teacher, I feel even more grateful to have received a Bishop Noll education. Having the opportunity to provide that gift to a new generation of Warriors is truly a privilege.”
Kennedy Castro ’16 joined BNI as a chemistry teacher this school year after two years of teaching at a Catholic school in Chicago. She said she was most excited to rejoin her BNI family and be back “home.”
“I am excited 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,” she said.
Rosalie Hauter Schmidt ’70, a BNI science teacher who began her teaching career in the ‘90s, said she feels Noll has helped her be the best teacher she has ever been.
“Teaching the finest, and most promising students in the area certainly helps. I love our diversity, the differing backgrounds and experiences they bring to our school. Each student in our building has something special to offer the future. Our students, though different, share similar goals, and I hope that I can help them achieve their goals in some small way. We have the best kids!”
Bishop Noll alumni have continued to spread their love of education and Christ by working throughout the Diocese of Gary. Pete Doherty ’71/ Doherty Images captured this photo of BNI alumni in attendance at a diocesan professional development session held in February at BNI.
FRONT ROW: Pollyanna Lopez ’93, St. John Bosco; Candace Hass Wadas ’93, St. Mary Crown Point; Ana Gomez ’16, St. Casimir; Mirabel Perez Villarreal ’89, St. Mary Crown Point; Kaitlin Grubesic ’13, St. John Bosco; Hannah Dominiak Lareau ’12, BNI digital design and photography teacher; Mayra Quiroz ’93, BNI academic advisor; Katie Vlcek Jara ’04, St. Thomas More; Julia Fugger ’18, St. Paul; Danielle Flores ’16, BNI English teacher
SECOND ROW: Eileen Boyle Germek ’75, St. Michael; Juli Korem Sandoval ’82, BNI advancement office; Dr. Samantha Hofferth-Francis ’88, St. Thomas More principal; Zayra Salinas ’01, St. Stanislaus assistant principal; Nancy Kruzan Repay ’85, St. John Bosco principal; Linda Nelson Loera ’85, St. John Bosco
THIRD ROW: Eric Klocek ’15, St. Mary Griffith; Colleen Kennedy ’82, St. Mary Griffith; Dr. Joseph Majchrowicz ’73, superintendent of schools; Lou Santellano ’99, BNI theology teacher; Rachel Hurtig ’12, St. John Bosco; Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, BNI principal; Sara Kozlowski Marszalek ’05, St. John the Baptist assistant principal; Renata Gajardo ’00, Queen of All Saints assistant principal.
FOURTH ROW: Paul Szymkowski ’11, BNI IT specialist; Rich Radziwiecki ’84, BNI maintenance supervisor; Peggy Ryan McHugh ’88, St. Casimir; Matt Chico ’02, St. Casimir principal; Elena Sobilo ’12, St. John the Baptist
BACK ROW: Tom Ruiz ’90, St. Mary Crown Point principal; Jorge Gomez ’12, St. Casimir; Shannon Whelan ’12, St. Casimir; Rachel Grogan ’16, St. Casimir; Mary Morenz Stephenson ’84, Nativity of our Savior; Paul Mullaney ’77, BNI president; Eloy Melero ’14, BNI math teacher; Jose Arteaga ’13, BNI social studies teacher
BNI employees not pictured include Kennedy Castro ’16, science teacher; Grace Delli Colli ’88, main office staff; Rebecca Dostatni ’00, chairperson of Science Department and teacher; Rosalie Schmidt ’70, science teacher.
For more news about Warriors excelling in the education field, see Noll Notes on P. 14–16.
As we recently sprung into Daylight Saving Time, experienced the vernal equinox and anticipated the blooming of spring flowers, it made me realize that we have been in a spring-like mode at Bishop Noll Institute for a while now.
Rebounding from a pandemic that tried but failed to halt our centennial celebration in 2021, we are seeing fruits from the seeds that have been planted at BNI in recent history. We are serving our largest enrollment in 21 years (and largest freshman class in 23 years), growing our STEM curriculum and use of our 3-year-old state-ofthe-art STREAM Lab, producing graduates who earn millions in college scholarship offers, and doing so much more to ensure the growth and achievement of our students.
And we’re far from done.
In the coming weeks and months, you will notice if driving past our outdoor athletic facilities that our long-awaited renovation is starting. We have done numerous projects over the past decade to improve and update our internal facilities, and now it is time to upgrade the outdoor spaces that are a significant part of the BNI experience and the lifelong memories that come with it.
Upon completion of the project, our students will benefit from the new amenities that will replace the tired and generations-old facilities many of us knew from our long-ago days at BNI. Funds have been secured for the first and primary phase of the project— an upgraded football/soccer field and regulation outdoor track, with new lighting and seating. In addition to providing
for our students and athletes, we hope it will send a signal to the community at large that Bishop Noll is invested for a long and successful second century to continue serving the youth of the Region and the Diocese of Gary.
The next phase of the project will provide new concessions and locker room structures, plus a new softball field. You will be hearing about BNI’s “Fielding Our Future” capital campaign to complete the renovated facilities. I ask that you please consider investing in Bishop Noll when contacted to help us provide the type of coveted facilities we all agree our students deserve, just as we have provided such amenities in recent years inside our building. You also can spring into action, invest in BNI and take a lead role in our efforts by contacting me, or Director of Advancement Ryan Julian.
We are so grateful to our alumni and other stakeholders who have helped make BNI what it is today—a bedrock of Catholic secondary education and a beacon for families of northwest Indiana and south Chicagoland. We intend to continue “springing ahead” with no turning back when it comes to making the BNI product and the BNI experience available to future leaders of our region, our world and our Church.
This Easter season, we ask for your continued prayers for our BNI students, faculty and staff, and for prayers that our various initiatives rooted in mission continue to bloom for the benefit of our budding young BNI Warriors.
God bless you, and God bless Bishop Noll Institute. Mind, Body, Soul! Let’s Go Noll!
Paul B. Mullaney ’77 President
Celebrate “Forever Noll: A century of Mind, Body and Soul” with your own copies of a DVD and history book featuring highlights of 100 years of Lake County’s premier Catholic high school.
Copies are $20 (shipping included). Order them online at bnibigevent.givesmart.com OR MAIL
Featuring compelling photos, forgotten stories and interesting trivia from Noll’s 100-year history, this book created by Bishop Noll’s History Committee is set to publish in late summer. If you would be interested in receiving updates on how to order, please email your name and information to advancement@bishopnoll.org.
Q & A with Ayanna Wash, valedictorian
• Planning to major in biology and eventually attend medical school to pursue a career as a surgeon
• Member of Drama Club, band (marching, jazz, mariachi, brass choir), Biology Club, choir
• Favorite teachers/classes: Mrs. Konkle (theatre), Mrs. Acosta (Spanish), Mr. Miller (calculus)
Hannah Evenson, left, has been named salutatorian. A legacy student and star on the volleyball team, she is the daughter of BNI alumnus Chuck Evenson ’93 and his wife, Mary. Ayanna Wash, right, has been named valedictorian. Already a scholar, thespian and musician, she now also becomes BNI’s first Black valedictorian. She is the daughter of Adrianna Lopez.
How did you feel when you learned you were valedictorian? I felt extremely happy and relieved. I was proud that all my hard work and determination had paid off. I was very excited. I was surrounded by my friends whom I care about very much.
How does it feel to be Bishop Noll’s first Black valedictorian? I feel honored and proud to become Bishop Noll’s first Black valedictorian. I am glad to be a part of Bishop Noll’s history and hope to be a symbol of strength and intelligence that others can look up to.
What legacy do you hope to leave here in relation to that?
I hope to become an example that students can do anything they put their minds to if they work hard. I hope to be someone others can look up to as a model and for hope.
What high school accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?
I am very proud of becoming the president of the band and the first chair trumpet. I am also proud of becoming the vice president of the Drama Club and being able to participate in our many shows and events as both an actor and a member of the set crew.
What advice would you give future Warriors?
Don’t let anyone else tell you what you can and cannot do or who you can or cannot be. You define yourself. All the hard work and determination and painful days pay off, as long as you don’t give up. You will make it to where you are meant to be as long as you push through and follow your heart.
Hannah Evenson, salutatorian
• Planning to attend Aurora University to continue her volleyball career and study actuarial science and finance
• Volleyball player, past tennis player
• Member of Student Athletic Council, retreat leader and has participated in various clubs such as Business Club, Engineering Club and Ski Club
• Favorite classes: Science, math, STEM and biology
• Favorite teachers: Mrs. Acosta, Ms. Dostatni, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Joseph
“When I learned I was salutatorian, I was shocked and did not expect to hear my name called. It was very rewarding, though, to know that all my hard work, challenging classes, stress, and dedication paid off in the end … I am most proud of my academic and athletic accomplishments throughout high school. I maintained my GPA and a very tough class load while also setting multiple school records in volleyball.”
Bishop Noll Institute has announced its Graduates with Distinction for the class of 2023. These top academic seniors all earned a 4.0 or above GPA. These grades also determine valedictorian and salutatorian.
Pictured first row, from left: Juliana Barrera, of East Chicago, attended St. Stanislaus; Itzury Becerra, of East Chicago, St.Casimir; Maria Carbajal, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Jacob Cardenas, of Hammond, St. John Bosco; Rebecca Carlos, of Hammond, St. John Bosco; Marissa Casares, of East Chicago, St. John the Baptist; Alyssa Colon, of Lansing, St. Casimir.
Second row: Hannah Evenson, of Chicago’s Hegewisch neighborhood, St. John the Baptist; Yessenia Hernandez, of
East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Kinnedi Lewis, of Gary, St. Stanislaus; Genesis Medina, of Calumet City, St. Casimir; Sophia Mendez, of Whiting, St. John the Baptist; David Perez, of Hammond, St. Stanislaus; Adriana Puente, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Keira Quinlan, of Chicago, Annunciata.
Third row: Maria Emilia Quiroga, of Schererville, St. Thomas More; Viviana Rosas, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Nyree Ruiz, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Adriana Torres-Cruz, of East Chicago, St. Mary’s Griffith; Aleni Vasquez, of Hammond, St. Stanislaus; Ayanna Wash, of Hammond, St. John Bosco; Gwyneth Wragg, of Lansing, homeschool; Jacob Ziobro, of Calumet City, St. John the Baptist.
Not pictured: Gabrielle Merritt, of Schererville, Clark Middle School.
After starting the new year in the sun and sand of Florida, the Marching Warriors returned a little wiser, a little prouder and with a few more trophies to display. Kicking off 2023 in style, the band competed and performed at the ReliaQuest Bowl game at Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The band received several individual and group awards, including a second-place silver placement and trophy among a field of bands from across the country. The band’s flag corps (top photo), drum major and solo performers, featuring singers and guitarists, received a first-place trophy.
“It’s one thing to compete against bands in your area locally, but quite another to compete nationally,” band director Rocco Carioto said. “It raises the bar for the program and the students, and lets them know how far they can push themselves.”
“The awards are nice and they worked hard to get them, but the real prize is the journey it took us to get here with the show’s preparation, teamwork, individual responsibility to learn the show and to fight through fatigue to be the best version of themselves,” Carioto said. “They can tap into those values and experiences as they go through life and meet life’s challenges.”
Freshman trombonist Ben Pachowicz, said, “It was beyond an amazing experience to go with all of the band to Tampa and compete. I’m proud of all my friends for all the work we did and what we achieved.”
Mr. John Trafny, retired Bishop Noll history teacher, visited DC U.S. History class on Dec. 8 to talk with students about the 81st anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Mr. Trafny’s father was at Pearl Harbor during the attack, and Trafny shared photos and stories about his father’s involvement in World War II.
Mr. Trafny taught social studies for 30-plus years at Noll. Before his teaching career, he worked at U.S. Steel and was in the Army. He has authored several books focusing on the Calumet Region, specifically around Gary, where he grew up.
Congratulations to Mary Albrecht, Introduction to Engineering and Design teacher, on receiving recognition from Allen Law Group for excelling in teaching through dedication, compassion and knowledge. We couldn’t agree more. The teachers at Bishop Noll do more than just educate—they inspire.
In November, the Drama Club presented Eurydice, a modern retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice brought to life. The show starred Iris Romero and Brian Barragan. Save the date for the spring musical, Little Shop of Horrors, which will be performed the weekend of April 14,15,16. Visit bishopnoll.org for more information and ticket sale links.
Not only is freshman Noah Hahn a straight-A student who scored in the 99th percentile on the PSAT test, he also excels on the mat, on the ice, on the field, and on the computer.
Noah has found his niche at BNI as a varsity wrestler and a male lifter for the Cheer Team. Outside of BNI, he is a figure skater, speaks fluent Japanese, and has learned how to do basic computer programming.
Noah, who attended Montessori Children’s Schoolhouse in Hammond, said he chose Bishop Noll because he wanted to attend a Catholic high school.
He answers these questions:
What has been your favorite class/teacher at BNI?
I like most of my classes, so I’m having quite a hard time deciding between Biology with Ms. Dostatni and Chinese with Mrs. Niu. I love learning biology and Ms. Dostatni has a great class and a fun personality. Chinese is also a lot of fun, especially with the trip to Chinatown.
What do you enjoy about the wrestling program?
Wrestling has let me stay fit and active, which is something I enjoy. Along with that, going to meets and tournaments is always thrilling, and winning is a great reward to all the hard work I put in.
When and where did you start to study Japanese?
I learned Japanese as a baby alongside English because my mom is from Japan. Before COVID, I visited my grandma in Japan every year for a few months during summer break. I even went to school there because they end late.
How did you get into figure skating?
I started when I was 8, because my mom was pushing me to do some extracurriculars and I thought that skating would be a unique choice.
When I was 11, I went to Provo, Utah, for the ice dance nationals where I placed fourth. I got first for all three of the preliminary competitions. I’ve also got first place in every other competition I’ve skated in.
Anything else you’d like the BNI community to know about you?
I started learning how to code when I was 7. I can now do basic programming in Java, C, C++, and I’m proficient in Python. I’ve also built my own computer. As some random other things, I designed the first Montessori yearbook in 8th grade, and I won the school spelling bee in 4th grade, and the school science fair in 6th grade.
• The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides four years of full tuition, required fees and a yearly book stipend for any public or private Indiana college or university.
• Quiroga was one of only six Lake County current seniors to receive the scholarship and is BNI’s 13th Lilly Scholar since the statewide program began in 1998.
• Plans to study marketing at the University of Notre Dame
• Named a 2023 graduate with distinction for achieving a GPA of at least 4.0
• Serves as a Student Ambassador and is a member of National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Women's Empowerment Club, Hispanic Student Union and Biology Club
“I’m really proud of all the achievements that have led me here, big and small,” Quiroga said. “Whether it was speaking at Bishop Noll’s Centennial gala or getting an A on my sophomore English test that I studied for. Every single thing and achievement that I’ve had here at BNI has led me to this, and I’m so grateful.
“I’m excited for all the opportunities ahead and all the doors that have opened. I am also so extremely grateful for all the teachers and faculty at Bishop Noll who have helped me get this scholarship. This was not an effort I made alone. Most importantly, I would love to thank my mom, who is the reason for all my achievements. I don’t have words in my vocabulary to thank her.”
Bishop Noll Principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick said Quiroga encompasses what she wants all BNI students to be.
“She pushes herself, she perseveres, and she does so with grace and humility as she genuinely displays what it means to be a missionary disciple,” Pastrick said. “Of course, the Lilly Scholarship is a great accomplishment, but knowing Maria, I am confident this will be one of many more accomplishments that she will achieve in her near and far future. I have seen her come in as a timid freshman, withstand a pandemic, and become a model leader in our school community.”
• Currently enrolled in Honors Chemistry and Principles of Biomedical Science
• Completed a certified nurse aid (CNA) course on her own time
• Took a separate class to receive her CPR certification
• An active student in several extracurriculars, Gonzalez is used to balancing her time between activities and academics. She said her classes and teachers have helped prepare her to excel in the future.
• Plans to study medicine or aerospace/robotics engineering
• Planning to minor in Spanish, “since you don’t see many Hispanic/Latino doctors and engineers. I hope to be very successful in my career by taking on any opportunities that are shown to me.”
Calling Mariana Gonzalez a forward thinker might be an understatement. After all, she was only a sophomore when she completed an outside course in becoming a certified nurse aide, a course that jump-started her hopes for a career in medicine.
As a current junior, Mariana has passed her final exam and received her CNA license. She plans to seek work experience in clinics and nursing homes, all while continuing to advance in her STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) education at Noll that she credits for increasing her desire to make a difference in the medical arena, perhaps even as a surgeon.
“Biomedical science was a great class choice for me since we are learning clinical topics and also about the body,” she said.
Ms. Rebecca Dostatni ’00, Gonzalez’s Principles of Biomedical Science teacher, said the class – one of various electives available in Noll’s STEM program – is designed for those with a special interest in science and the medical field. Students research processes with an introduction to bioinformatics. They investigate the human body systems and various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia and infectious diseases.
“Bishop Noll has pushed me to try my hardest in all of my classes, a skill I need for when I transition to college,” Gonzalez said. “My teachers challenge me in my classes, which is great because I really love and look forward to a good challenge. It pushes my excitement toward learning. In other ways, my family is a big reason why I want to succeed. I’m the youngest in a huge family, and my older siblings and cousins are always supporting me and pushing me to be the best version of myself.”
• Member of Thunderbird District, Boy Scout Troop 542
• Athlete on BNI’s football, swimming and track teams
• Member of National Honor Society, Student Athletic Council and Chess Club
• Serves as a student athletic trainer
• Favorite class/teacher: Mr. Pillar’s business management class. (“Someday I’d like to start a business.”)
Luke Buksa is used to working hard at Noll, maintaining good grades while excelling as a three-sport athlete. But he also works hard outside of school and that dedication was honored this February, when he received the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank in Scouting.
As a final step in achieving the rank, Buksa had to complete a project that demonstrated leadership skills and helped the community. He spent more than 100 hours on the project and had to find donors to reach his fundraising goal of $1,000. His project was remodeling the bridal room at St. Bridget Church in Hobart with the approval of Rev. Ben Ross, pastor. This included painting walls, installing flooring in a basement storage room; adding mirrors, chairs, a rug and refinishing a makeup table.
“A huge congratulations to Luke on his achievement of Eagle Scout,” said Noll teacher Jose Arteaga ’13. “While this is amazing news and a great honor, I am not surprised because Luke is a leader inside and outside of the classroom. I have Luke for Dual Credit Government and have found him to be a very mature and thoughtful young man who always brings unique insights to class discussions.”
Students kicked off Spirit Week with Anything-but-a-BackpackDay. They were asked to “get creative and carry your books in anything but a backpack.”
Other theme days included Celebrity Dress Day, Adam Sandler Meme Day and, of course, Ultimate Warrior Wear Day.
Students filed into the football field for Friday’s pep rally, complete with performances by the Marching Warriors and the Cheer Team. Students battled in a field goal competition as well as tug-of-war before Homecoming court members had their moment in the spotlight.
During halftime, the Homecoming court took to the field, riding in convertibles along the sidelines. Jackson Montgomery and Elia Larios were named Homecoming king and queen.
“My reaction was shock. I was very surprised that I won. I am forever grateful to the people that cheered for me when they called my name.”
—Jackson Montgomery, Homecoming kingWith the theme of Classic Hollywood, the Homecoming dance took place September 17 in the cafeteria. Tickets cost $18 per person. This year's organizers brought back a DIY photo booth, which had been a big hit at 2022 Winter Formal.
Founders Day weekend, students celebrated their Warrior roots by enjoying several Homecoming traditions and making new memories to last a lifetime.Juniors Arianna Magallanes, left, and Zeltzin Carrillo dress up for Soccer Moms and BBQ Dads Day. Junior Brody Long Football player Zach Bonadurer
More than 200 Warriors and friends reunited at the Bishop Noll Tailgate party Sept. 16. Following the Homecoming football game, alumni assembled in the fieldhouse to enjoy fellowship, drinks, food and entertainment. The event also coincided with Founders Day, when Bishop Noll celebrates the day the school first opened its doors on Sept. 16, 1921. For news on upcoming alumni events, please visit bishopnoll.org and follow us on social media.
Sophomore theology student Victoria “Kiki”
Morfin is new to Catholic school this year and has learned to embrace her Catholic faith thanks to the environment at Bishop Noll and her teacher, Mr. Kevin Driscoll.
Morfin’s family was always “super religious,” she said, and introduced her to the faith at a young age, although she would often make excuses to skip church or prayer.
Her time at Bishop Noll has helped her learn more about her faith, and her sophomore theology class has helped her understand more about the background behind her religion.
“For example, I knew the Virgin Mary was the mother of Jesus, but I didn't know she was around my age. Knowing that she was around my age really made a difference and made me appreciate her more than I did before,” she said.
Morfin, who moved around a lot as a child, always attended public schools.
“When I found out I was going to BNI I was angry and upset. I didn't want to do all the praying or going to church more than I have to. But as I went to my theology class and listened to Mr. Driscoll, I started to realize and understand things. I felt a lot more gratitude for a lot of things, especially things in my faith. I started to know how to appreciate praying and began to enjoy going to church. Not feeling dread that it was Sunday; instead of church feeling like a chore, it became something meaningful and important to me. I finally get to talk to my grandmother more now or enjoy talking to my aunt, who is very religious. I get to be closer to my family and to God.”
In December, BNI celebrated Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the first time, at least in recent history, this feast was observed at BNI with an all-school Mass. Dec. 12 marks the anniversary of one of several apparitions of the Virgin Mary witnessed by an indigenous Mexican man named Juan Diego in 1531. Before Mass, Bishop Noll students read the story of Juan Diego in English and Spanish. The Mass also included a rose procession of students from BNI’s three Hispanic clubs—Multicultural Club, Spanish National Honor Society and Hispanic Student Union.
“Attending Noll has been the best thing that has happened to me. I couldn’t be more happy than I am now. I have amazing friends, teachers and my faith is stronger than ever.”
—Victoria Morfin, sophomore
A theology assignment took on new meaning for sophomore Molly Whelan when she began to share her faith in new ways.
“We had an assignment to reach out to share things about God on social media. We all had creative freedom to post on whatever social media platform we wanted to. I decided to post on Instagram. For my project, I post every day on my story a quote from the Bible that I think relates to my life. I would then piece together pictures of me or of my friends and leave a message on how that Bible verse related to my life.”
She said the sophomore theology project was the extra push she needed to feel OK to share her faith and talk about it with others.
This year, she has learned that we can ask God for many things, but if we don’t follow His plan, He can’t help us.
She is now proud of her relationship with God and said coming to Bishop Noll has helped grow that relationship.
Catholic Schools Week Mass began a week of celebration and excitement. BNI hosted five elementary schools for this special Mass, celebrated by the Most Rev. Robert McClory, bishop of the Diocese of Gary. He was joined by BNI Chaplain Father Jeff Burton and Deacon Martin Brown ’79.
Mr. Kevin Driscoll said.
“Molly has been very supportive of my class experience, engaging in teamwork, and class discussions. She is also participating in a social media evangelization project I presented. She is using her Instagram account to spread the Gospel, which shows a lot of courage and shows me she ‘gets’ my class,”
Thank you to all the students, teachers, administrators and guests from our local religious communities who made this such a joyous Mass. Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States.
In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, Bishop Noll students enjoyed a week of special activities. In an exciting matchup, the BNI Warriors took on the .... BNI Warriors? Yes, it was staff vs. students in a “heated” game of volleyball that ended in a tie. We’d love to see a rematch this spring.
The Bishop Noll baseball team will host the 2nd Larry Bentley Alumni Classic on May 19. This tradition started in 2022 to honor former BNI teacher and coach Mr. Larry Bentley. Mr. Bentley coached baseball, but, more importantly, he coached life lessons to the young men in his program. This game is an annual dedication to ALL the great BNI baseball alumni who have helped create a historically successful program on and off the field.
This year’s game will honor the legacy and life of Matthew Pobereyko ’10. All alumni, not only BNI baseball players, are invited to come to the Bishop Noll varsity baseball game at Dowling Park at 4:30 p.m. After the game, participants are invited to the adjacent Kube Sports Complex for a celebration of life, baseball and BNI. The postgame event will have free pizza and snacks, along with a cash bar until 10 p.m.
Larry Bentley Alumni Classic Baseball Game vs. Merrillville
4:30 p.m. May 19, 2023 at Dowling Park, J.F. Mahoney Drive in Hammond Celebration to follow from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
KUBE Sports Complex, 2825 J.F. Mahoney Drive
Please contact rjulian@bishopnoll.org, Director of Advancement or emelero@bishopnoll.org, Head Varsity Baseball Coach for more information.
Congratulations to Coach Rich Sobilo and the Bishop Noll Warriors on winning the Class 3A Indiana state hockey championship March 4 game in Evansville, 4-2 over Lakeshore St. Joseph. The Warriors, who rallied from a 2-0 deficit, won their third state title in 7 years. They were 1A champs in 2017, 2A in 2020 and 3A in 2023.
What an exciting Jan. 6 evening at BNI, as nearly 70 alumni and friends came out to join the Alumni Game Watch. They—along with the Noll students and extended BNI family—cheered on the Warriors to a 59-57 overtime victory against Andrean. It was the third straight victory over Andrean for Coach John Dodson’s Warriors. Alumni from every decade since the ’50s were on hand to join in the festivities, enjoying food, refreshments and the Warrior spirit.
When the Warriors take the field for their 101st interscholastic football season this fall, 28-year-old Tyler Milby will be at the helm. An assistant coach in Northwest Indiana the past six years, Milby spent the past two seasons as defensive coordinator at Calumet New Tech High School. In those two years, Calumet went 15–6 and posted six shutout victories. Last year’s team finished 9–2, matching the best record in Calumet history, and his defense set school records for total tackles and tackles for loss.
“I am dedicated and committed to building the best high school football program in Indiana,” said Milby, a former player at Lowell High School. “When I saw the opening come up, I thought, ‘Whoa, it’s Bishop Noll. Noll has such a rich history and great potential, and we will work hard to build it back up.”
Wrestling Semi-State qualifier, Francisco Rodriguez-Betancourt
Volleyball Conference and Sectional Champs
Boys Soccer Sectional Champs
Cross Country Regional Qualifiers
Girls Golf Regional Qualifiers
Boys Tennis Regional Qualifier
6 to 11 p.m.
Friday, April 28, 2023
Bishop Noll Institute Fieldhouse
bnibigevent.givesmart.com
Visit the website to purchase tickets, browse auction items, sponsor the event or make a donation.
Please email us with any questions at advancement@bishopnoll.org.
Every spring at BNI, our largest single-day fundraiser—The Big Event—raises scholarship funds for our students. Every year, tens of thousands of dollars are raised to help families provide the gift of a BNI education that they wish for their children.
This year’s Big Event on April 28 is both an in-person gathering and virtual auction. Thanks to the success of past hybrid events, we hope this allows more alumni and friends to support this fundraiser in whatever method they feel most comfortable. The in-person gathering will include food, beer and wine, entertainment and raffles. The virtual option will allow those who wish to participate from the comfort of their homes to bid on auction items. We will have more than 100 auction items this year, including past favorites and new options. All auction items will be listed online and bids will be placed online whether attending in person or virtually. A help desk will be available during the event to assist those who need help with placing bids or registering online.
Attendees must be 21 or older. Tickets cost $50 per person if purchased before April 17, 2023. Tickets purchased after that will cost $60. All proceeds will benefit our student scholarship program. Need help with donating an auction item, being a sponsor or purchasing tickets? Contact Juli Sandoval in the Advancement Office at (219) 932-9058, ext. 1520, or e-mail jsandoval@bishopnoll.org.
(One 50/50 Winner)
Donation: $10 per ticket
Please make checks payable to BNI and return to:
BNI Advancement Office—
1519 Hoffman St, Hammond, IN 46327
OFFICIAL RULES: Your receipt will be mailed to you. Winner will be drawn and announced at The Big Event on April 28, 2023. Winner need not be present and will be notified. Proceeds will benefit BNI Scholarship Fund.
BUY TICKETS: Purchase tickets by April 25, 2023, by mail or phone. Mail the form below with check payment to BNI. If ordering multiple tickets, please include enough address labels to be used on all of your ticket stubs. To pay via debit card, call (219) 932-9058.
(NOTE: Due to Indiana gaming laws, we cannot accept credit card payments for raffle tickets). License #000575. Winners must be 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver’s license or state issued photo ID.
I would like to purchase ______ 50/50 raffle ticket(s) at $10 each Enclosed is my check for $______ for ______ tickets.
July 17, 2023
@ Innsbrook Country Club, Merrillville
11 a.m. Lunch; 12:30 Shotgun Start; 5:30 Cocktails and Dinner
Enjoy a day on a beautiful, private course and do more than just improve your golf game. Golfers participating in the Bishop Noll Institute Golf Invitational will also enjoy catching up with fellow alums while helping support student scholars. The invitational costs $200 per golfer and includes lunch, golf and cart, drinks on the course, dinners and prizes. A reduced fee of $100 is available for young alums, those who graduated from 2013–23. Sponsorships are always needed and appreciated.
For more information on sponsorships or registration, contact Juli Sandoval at jsandoval@bishopnoll.org or (219) 932-9058, ext. 1520.
Bishop Noll’s School Board wanted to show faculty and staff how much they appreciate them at Christmas and always, so they brought in a little help from a famous friend.
The recently named new Mr. Pierogi, Tony Panek ’08, returned to his alma mater to help spread Christmas joy and pierogi as BNI employees received family sized meals featuring traditional Polish favorites.
A video feature on the event was aired on Panek’s WJOB radio program.
School board chairman, Mark Cloghessy ’76, said the board members always look for ways to say thank you to Noll’s incredibly dedicated staff and faculty.
“This is a simple way to say thank you to each of them for the time and effort they put into making BNI such a wonderful and welcoming place to work and learn and flourish,” he said. “Our faculty and staff are at the heart of all we do here at Bishop Noll. They are such an impressive group of dedicated professionals and without them we could not accomplish our mission to educate our students, mind, body and soul.”
The meals included a dinner complete with ham, pierogi, Polish sausage, kolacky and Oplatki wafers, which are a beloved Christmas tradition in Polish homes on Christmas Eve.
A popular game across the Illinois border, Queen of Hearts made its debut at BNI this fall as a fun way to help raise funds for the BNI Athletics Facility Fund.
The Queen of Hearts is a 50/50 progressive raffle where one winner is selected each week. That winner’s “slot number” is then revealed on the game board. If the card is the queen of hearts, the winner collects half of the total jackpot, splitting it with BNI. If the queen is not revealed, the winner takes home $250 (or $500 for a joker) and the game continues.
BNI parent Renee Whelan (above) was the jackpot winner of Bishop Noll's inaugural Queen of Hearts raffle. Renee and her husband, Terry ’92, played weekly, and Renee faithfully chose the number 18 in honor of the birthday of their daughter Molly, a BNI sophomore. Renee split the jackpot of $5,005 with BNI.
A few days later, a new Queen of Hearts game board began with all new chances for weekly winners and, of course, that grand prize jackpot.
Tickets are sold at the main office daily during school hours or can be purchased via debit card by calling (219) 932-9058. Please note that per Indiana gaming regulations, credit cards cannot be used to purchase raffle tickets.
For more information, visit bnihearts.givesmart.com.
BNI was full of excitement Jan. 13 as the boys basketball team won against River Forest. During a break in the action, the fieldhouse was dedicated to its newest namesake—The Williamson Family—Ed, Judy, Art, Charlotte ’11 and Rachel ’12. As the highest bidder for the fieldhouse sponsorship at the 2022 Big Event, the family has the privilege of having the BNI fieldhouse in its name for one year.
Congratulations to the winners of the Reach for the Stars Raffle. The drawing took place Nov. 29, 2022, at Bishop Noll.
Tasha D., Merrillville, IN
2nd Prize
Fernanda B., Griffith, IN
3rd Prize
Donnell L., Gary, IN
4th Prize
Lynn R., Munster, IN
5th Prize
Branimir K., Chicago, IL
6th Prize
Veronice M., Hammond, IN
7th Prize
Gloria R., Chicago, IL
Student athletes stepped up this year, giving back to their community. The girls basketball team helped the East Chicago Police distribute toys to children at the annual E.C. Police Holiday Toy Giveaway, and the Student Athletic Council assisted with the People's Turkey Drive this Thanksgiving, helping provide dinners for more than 1,000 families.
BNI collected more than 1,800 pounds of peanut butter to donate to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. For the past 15 years, Bishop Noll class of 1967 alum Bob Homrich has challenged BNI students to collect peanut butter to donate to the food bank. Homrich and his wife, Joan, donate to Bishop Noll’s Annual Fund as a thank you for these collection efforts. Any alumni interested in giving back through the Annual Fund can reach out to Director of Advancement Ryan Julian at rjulian@bishopnoll.org or call (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002.
1950
Barney Tresnowski celebrated his 90th birthday in 2022. He has 7 children, 18 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
1957
William J. Napiwocki, Ph.D. retired after a long career in the Chicago area as a professor and instructor of Latin and Greek to high school and college students, including seminarians.
1959
Colleen Ward writes that she and her husband, Ed, built a home in Dyer in 2022. “Thus I have returned in ‘my twilight’ years to my Hoosier roots, having grown up in Gary, Indiana.”
1961
Mary Knutson Tanis writes that the 2022 election supported her fourth term in Dyer Town Council. “The Class of 1961 enjoyed our Christmas party.”
1962
Louis Hevezi has three children: Dr. Louis William Hevezi, Sue Ann Hevezi Metive, a second grade teacher; and Chris Hevezi, financial director at McDonalds.
1966
Frank Darrington, a Navy veteran who criss crossed the pacific during Vietnam, recently logged some additional miles during his Honor Flight trip to Washington, D.C., on Aug. 24. Frank grew up in East Chicago and was a student at Purdue University when he went to a recruiter and chose to join the Navy and Quartermaster as his profession. After Boot Camp, Frank was sent to San Diego for Quartermaster A training before being assigned to the USS Bexar
APA-237, an attack transport ship. After several years of service, Frank was discharged from active duty on November 4, 1970. He had a job waiting for him at the Research Lab with Standard Oil Company. He retired after 31 years of service and then opened a graphic art studio in Munster for 20 years before officially retiring. Frank married Joanna in 1968 while in the Navy. He has two children and three grandchildren. Two of his grandchildren currently live with him. While his children were young, he was an A.A.U. swimming referee. He was a member of the Munster Jaycees and was one of the founding members of VFW 2647, serving as its commander for 18 years. For the years 2019 thru 2021, their VFW was on the All American Team. He is currently the commander of American Legion Post 369.
Frank has been to D.C. but was especially looking forward to his Honor Flight trip and flying with seven of his VFW friends.
Honor Flight Chicago media team contributed to this article.
1970
After a career of service to the Town of Schererville, the last 17 years as town manager, Bob Volkmann has retired. He told The Times it was a “very rewarding career,” adding, “I’ve always enjoyed helping people.”
Diana Bruno Mahan retired in January 2020 after 41 years in various psychiatric RN positions. Diana was widowed suddenly July 26, 2022. Her husband was Lloyd Stephen “Steve” Mahan.
Barbara Tonkovich Zelle made a short term missionary trip to South Africa in the fall. Her team provided eyeglasses to more than 750 people.
1976
In October, David Brainard was named Chief Financial Officer of AFIMAC Global in Cleveland, Ohio.
Dave Dolak, who can often be found talking to students in the BNI classroom, was recently featured in Columbia College (where he teaches) magazine. In the article, Dave shared his passion for creating instruments and how students can put their creativity first in STEM.
1978
On September 22, 2022, Kris Costa-Sakelaris received the Gale M. Phelps Award from the Indiana State Bar Association’s Family & Juvenile Law Section for her exceptional service to the family law legal community and her diligent work to elevate the standard of professionalism in the field. A graduate of St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer who earned her law degree from Valparaiso University, Kris has served as a probation officer and court administrator, a Lake County Superior Court magistrate and an executive director of the Hammond Legal Aid Clinic. She also has served on the Board of Directors of Haven House, a local shelter for victims of domestic violence.
After serving 12 years on the Lake County Council, Dan Dernulc was elected in November to the Indiana State Senate, representing District 1.
Bishop Noll Alum Bob Buchanan ’82 remembers Pope Benedict As Catholics around the world mourned the loss of Pope Emeritus Benedict, one alumnus with connections to the pope grieved the loss on a personal level.
Bob Buchanan ’82, who had met the pope at the Vatican on several occasions, described him as very kind, unassuming and humble. He was funny and gentle, Dr. Buchanan said.
A devout Catholic who serves on the board of directors for the National Catholic Bioethics Center, Buchanan was appointed by Pope Benedict to serve on the international Pontifical Academy for Life. The Academy is made up of about 120 scientists and theologians from around the world who advise the pope on bioethical issues that impact human life and Catholic morality. Buchanan spoke to Bishop Noll graduates about that role during his 2018 commencement address.
Buchanan said there was “a certain gentleness of Benedict,” and he called him “a good shepherd.” Buchanan also remembered the pope’s humor.
“The first time I met him, he said ‘Professor, I heard you are the professor of neurosurgery of Texas. That would be a big job, and he laughed. I said no, just a little bitty corner of Texas.’ ”
Buchanan is the chief of neurosurgery and chief of functional neuroscience at the Seton Brain and Spine Institute in Austin. He also is an associate professor at the University of Texas’ Dell Medical School.
Denise Szanyi Setmayer retired this year from State Farm after 34 years. She is looking forward to her next chapter.
In recognition and celebration of 125 years as the oldest establishment and family owned business in East Chicago, the City of East Chicago recognized the Fife family and Fife Funeral Home by unveiling Honorary Fife Street this February. BNI alumni in the Fife family include Harold Fife ’28 (deceased); Jim ’53 (deceased); Jim Fife ’75; John Fife ’78; Janice ’80; Tom ’82; Jeanne ’87; and Terry ’92
Eddie Limon and Lisa Hubbard reconnected after 37 years and were married June 4, 2022. Scott Fech officiated the ceremony with many class of 1985 friends in attendance in Austin, Texas.
Robyn Harkenrider Williams ’86 and Paul Williams ’88 were married in October 1994 and now have three beautiful daughters. Their first is getting married this year.
Nicholas and Jennifer Butler Labas met at Bishop Noll and graduated in 1999. They have three children (all girls) and celebrated their 17th wedding anniversary in October.
Mike Repay, one of three Lake County Commissioners, was elected treasurer of the Association of Indiana Counties and a member of its board of directors. Stepping into the role in November, Repay helps lead the organization that represents all Indiana counties at the Statehouse.
Jennifer Hartmann ’98 was recently named the Assistant Principal of the Year for the South Cook County Region for her work as an assistant principal at Memorial Junior High School in Lansing, Illinois. South Cook County is the largest of the 13 regions represented by the nominees.
Hartmann holds a bachelor’s degree in history and secondary education in addition to two master’s degrees, one in teaching and one in educational leadership. She began her teaching career as a 6th & 7th grade Social Studies Teacher at Rickover Junior High School in Sauk Village, Illinois. While there, she earned her first masters degree and went on to become a founding teacher at Perspectives/IIT Math & Science Academy in Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood teaching 6-12th grade Social Studies, SocialEmotional Life Skills, Reading, and Science. She taught a few more years until moving into administration.
Since becoming an administrator, Ms. Hartmann worked as an assistant principal at two Illinois schools before coming full circle in 2021. She was offered a position at Memorial Junior High School, where she was once a junior high school band member herself while attending St. Ann School in Lansing. As a teacher for 16 years and a school administrator for six years, her areas of interest remain social emotional learning and academic interventions.
Dr. Jasmine Saavedra received a promotion at Esperanza Health. She is now lead pediatrician at Esperanza Brighton Park in Chicago. Jasmine is also one of BNI’s newest board members.
2012
Eric Roldan combined his passion for marketing with belief in Catholic education in his new role as assistant director of marketing and enrollment at Big Shoulders Fund Northwest Indiana. The organization supports schools with a demonstrated need that provide a quality, values-based education.
“Even before Big Shoulders Fund, Catholic schools have been a part of my life since preschool,” he said.
“It molded me into the individual I am today, and I have a lot of love, confidence, and gratitude for the education I received. It’s part of who I am, and I’ve always believed in Catholic education.”
Two 2018 BNI alumnae made a big impact at Valparaiso in their four years there. Abbi Damacio, a mechanical engineering major with minors in electrical engineering and Spanish, and Monica Magallanes, a civil engineering major, were co-presidents of Valpo’s chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), a nationwide organization for underrepresented students across the country.
Its goal is to change lives by empowering the Hispanic/Latinx community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support and development.
“It’s really an all-encompassing guide on how to succeed in STEM for people who don’t have those role models in their family,” Magallanes said.
“In SHPE, you’ll learn a lot of different things,” said Damacio. “You can participate in networking and gain the skills you need to succeed all in one place.”
After joining, Magallanes and Damacio became the treasurer and secretary, respectively, and later served as co-presidents of the organization. They say that while the academic and professional support that students find in SHPE is important, the cultural and social impact of the organization is what make it a truly essential resource for students.
The jobs and responsibilities the women took on during their time with SHPE provided them with a variety of skills as they entered the workforce.
Damacio graduated in 2022 with a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering, and minors in electrical engineering and Spanish. She worked as an electrical process subject matter expert for General Motors in Warren, Michigan, and was recently promoted to launch lead diagnostician for GM. She troubleshoots electrical issues with model GM cars.
Magallanes also graduated in 2022 with a degree in engineering. Inspired by her father’s career in construction, she is working at HW Lochner, a firm that provides engineering, planning and construction services. Her office focuses on road, bridge and highway design and maintenance projects. She has also taken on a volunteer position as Regional SHPEtina Director for SHPE Region 6.
Magallanes said Bishop Noll prepared her for college by giving her a strong math background, especially in calculus. “I aced my first college math class because of the content we covered in AP Calculus with Mr. Miller. Of course, there were some surprises. I explicitly remember that we covered the entire semester’s worth of physics the first day of Physics class at VU, and I remember laughing and being surprised that there was even more physics content to learn.”
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Magallanes credits her time as a BNI drum major with the leadership experience that gave her a great foundation for being a leader on campus at VU.
“I owe a lot of my college success to the confidence that Mr. Carioto and the marching band program instilled in me … Although I didn’t realize this in high school, Noll’s diversity instilled a layer of confidence in me as well. There were high achieving Hispanic students and Hispanic teachers surrounding me, and they created a sense of belonging and pride that I
really missed once I got to college. That feeling is what motivated me to join SHPE, to replicate that feeling on campus.”
Living in the Region inspired her to pursue engineering, she said.
“There is such a vast difference in quality of life within a 45-minute to one-hour drive in any direction. I wondered why certain places were able to thrive while others were dilapidated and run down. Once I discovered that city and transportation design could be a solution to making cities better and more equitable, I knew that's what I needed to study to be able to give back to my community one day.”
Magallanes hopes to inspire others, including her sisters, who are current BNI students, to pursue their passion.
“I was never the smartest student, at BNI or VU, but my passions were what set me apart from the average student and what set me apart once I got to the work force. My sisters are at BNI now and are completely different students than I was, but their passions are leaving a mark there in the same way.”
—Valparaiso University’s Media Department contributed to this article and provided the photo
Classmates celebrated their 65th reunion in September at Youche Country Club in Crown Point and welcomed 33 classmates and their guests. The committee has already started working on ideas for a 70th reunion in 2027, so stay tuned!
Julia Fugger graduated as valedictorian from Calumet College of St. Joseph on May 21, 2022. She received her bachelor of science degree in elementary education and is teaching at St. Paul School in Valparaiso. Fugger, who graduated Summa Cum Laude, was also the recipient of the Dvorak Leadership in Teaching Award, the Harold E. Burns Education Award and the Hearts and Hands Award given for community service. Fugger is a first-generation college graduate who attended Catholic schools from kindergarten through college.
Former Warrior basketball player Jaelon Brooks graduated with a business degree in 2022 from Knox College, where he played for the Prairie Fire. Jaelon now is a sales rep for Buckeye Cleaning Center in Chicago.
Congratulations to Brandon Fuentes, a senior at the University of Arizona in Tucson, where he was named Homecoming King in October.
Classmates celebrated their 10-year reunion in November at 313 Taproom in Munster.
Classmates had their annual get-together in October at Cavalier Inn in Hammond. This class gathers often—at least once a year—to rekindle their friendships and share cherished experiences from high school and beyond.
BNI alumni who are now enrolled at Purdue came out this fall to cheer on BNI's soccer team in regional play at West Lafayette. Afterward, they joined BNI President Paul Mullaney ’77 for pizza in town before returning to hit the books.
Class of
Alumni are planning their 60th reunion September 22–24. Plans include an informal gathering Friday, formal dinner Saturday and brunch and Mass Sunday. More details will be available soon at bishopnoll.org. Email Jeff Kristoff jsk1sc@gmail.com for more information.
Class of 1973
Classmates are planning a 50th class reunion on July 15, 2023. This is a historic reunion as the class of 1973 graduated during BNI’s 50th commencement and this is the class’ 50th anniversary. Current plans include a golf outing July 14; an informal gathering July 14; a reunion dinner July 15; and a brunch, Mass and school tour July 16 at Noll.
More information can be found on the BNI Class of 1973 Facebook page or by contacting: Robert Skibinski at skibinski2@ aol.com or Dave Talenco at dctalenco@sbcglobal.net
Class of 1983
A 40th Class Reunion will be held on September 29 and 30, 2023. For more info, email Juanita Trevino Trivunovic at jatriv@comcast. net or call her at (219) 455-9906.
1948 John P. Etter
1948 Arthur J. Sawyer
1948 James Schuster
1949 Eugene “Gene” Pospychala
1949 Violet Warholic
1950 Rita P. Wells
1951 Dolores Mysliwy Glover
1951 Philip A. Susic
1953 Kathleen “Katie” Graska
1953 John Lepp
1953 Carol L. O’Donnell
1954 Dennis J. Keilman Sr.
1955 Joseph W. Claesgens
1955 Kathleen Hoess
1955 Barbara Kolanowski
1956 John Algozine
1956 James Melton
1957 George M. Cherry
1957 Ruth Elkins
1957 Mary F. “Collins” Hasse
1957 Gloria Kozlowski
1957 Janet M. Mahoney
1957 Gloria M. Popaditch Kozlowski
1957 Patrick Stodola
1957 Robert W. Trgovich
1958 William J. Barr
1958 Dennis “Denny” Danko
1958 Cerise Rose Selvaggi Patterson
1958 Robert J. “Bob” Wojcik
In December, former Noll hockey players and numerous other BNI alumni and family members gathered at the KUBE Sports Complex in Hammond, home rink for the Warriors hockey team. Dozens of former teammates shared favorite memories and old war stories. And after the current BNI Warriors of Coach Rich Sobilo '83 defeated Naperville Central 6-1, former players laced up their skates and took to the ice for a friendly annual alumni game.
1959 Virginia “Jean” Lareau Bados
1959 Frank Flanagan
1959 Sylvia (Cengel) Komyatte
1959 Stanley R. “Stas” Losinski
1960 Daniel Roszkowski
1962 Eugene Filar
1963 Robert W. Kerr Jr.
1963 Bernie Smith Vellutini
1964 Barbara Leone
1965 Kathleen Anthony
1966 Joseph Kochis
1966 Barbara D. Rosing
1967 Robert Bodak
1967 La Verne M. Porsche
1967 Robert Conway
1968 Anthony J Kolodziej
1968 David K. Rahn
1969 Ellen V. McLean
1970 Christopher P. Duray
1972 Richard Dewitt Cannon, Jr.
1972 Timothy W. Quinn
1974 Raymond Ortega
1976 Yolanda Prejmak Kirincic
1977 Ronald Gabel
1977 Joseph A. Nauracy Jr.
1977 Richard Suchanuk
1978 Terrence Haugh
1978 Lynette M. Lannon
1979 Caroline Kuric Hendrickson
1986 Camila Trevino Olerva
1986 Teyan McCoy
1987 Lynn M. Boganski Quezada
2002 Joseph A. Cisneros
2010 Rosalyn Kruse
2010 Matthew Pobereyko
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
A note from the Advancement Office: 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.
