FALL 2016
Inspirational alums: Different journeys, one faith Stories, pages 1-3
“Church is what you do. . . it is who you are.” Meet four BNI alums who followed different paths on their journeys of faith
2016-17 SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Paul Mullaney ’77, President Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, Principal Matthew Chico ’02, Dean of Students Mary Ellen O’Neill, Director of Advancement Renee Nagdeman, Director of Finance Nancy Repay ’85, Director of Admissions Michele Arnold, Director of Guidance Fred Reynolds, Director of Technology Brandi Krolak, Athletic Director
2016-17 BOARD OF LIMITED JURISDICTION Most Reverend Donald J. Hying, Bishop Dr. Joseph Majchrowicz ’73, Director of Catholic Schools Michael Whelan ’85, Chariman Geoff Laciak ’96 Jeffrey Cipowski ’83 Mark Cloghessy ’76 Adrienne Gomez ’70 Larry Kalina ’69 Patrick McCloskey ’77 Rev. Kevin Scalf, C.P P.S. Gregory Zagrocki ’82
2016-17 FOUNDATION MEMBERS Marlene Vega Coulis ’79, President Rev. Dominic Bertino, Treasurer Carole Hepner ’59, Secretary Ray Garza
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New principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01 returns to Bishop Noll, where she has been a teacher, coach and admissions coordinator. “We are delighted that Lorenza is coming home to BNI to lead our academic program and curricular initiatives,” BNI president Paul Mullaney said. “Lorenza has such a passion for her faith, for her family and for Catholic education. Her boundless energy is one of her staples, and the fruits of that energy are visible in the performances of those under her leadership. “Lorenza is student-focused and results-driven, and I know she will push all of us to be our best at Bishop Noll.” “Bishop Noll is a great school,” Mrs. Pastrick said. “I am proud to have the opportunity to lead a school that has so many accomplishments throughout its 95-year history. I look forward to continuing its STEM program, and advancing it to include religion and the arts as northwest Indiana’s only STREAM school.” Mrs. Pastrick succeeds Craig Stafford, who resigned to become the principal at New Buffalo High School in Michigan.
Bishop Noll Institute has served as a starting point for many who have found their vocations intertwined with their faith. In the fall of 1981, Bob Buchanan and John Kartje, then a senior and a junior, played as teammates on the Noll tennis team. Today, they work on the same team, serving God through their Catholic faith in different roles. Buchanan’s classmate Tina O’Drobinak started her religious journey as a cantor in eighth grade and went on to become a director of liturgy and music. Lorenza Jara Pastrick graduated from Noll in 2001 and followed her faith to Catholic education, eventually leading her back to Noll as its new principal. The stories of these four alumni living their faith through their careers are representative of many Noll alumni doing likewise. Story by Jennifer Florek, communications specialist at Bishop Noll Institute. E-mail her at jflorek@bishopnoll.org.
Leading with faith Father John Kartje ’83 first studied the cosmos as an astrophysicist before eventually contemplating the universe as a priest. The youngest of seven children growing up in Highland, Kartje said his siblings had a big influence on him. “I think the youngest child in a big family sort of vicariously grows up through the lives of his older siblings before he grows up himself,” Kartje said. “My faith as a child was most formed by my father. Every Sunday, I would accompany him to early Mass—those are some of the fondest memories I have of him.” Kartje said Noll enabled him to form some great friendships and receive an excellent liberal arts education that included his first taste of physics and instilled a deep love of reading and writing. “Now that I have been a teacher for many years, I can appreciate just how uncommon that education was.” While he loved science as a kid, Mr. Maurice O’Hern introduced him to physics, “which awakened in me a love that would direct the rest of my life.” Mr. Walter Pikul taught Kartje better than any other teacher, right through his Ph.D., what it means to be a critical thinker and to do science with integrity and discipline. Mrs. Dorothy LaMere broadened his world to include a vast range of literary treasures, he said. “There was little I encountered in my U of C humanities courses that I had not at least been introduced to by her world literature class. “Finally, while the thought of being a priest was not really on my mind during those years, I now realize that I was learning what a fine priest does through the modeling of men like Father Pat Connolly, Principal Father Ed Moszur, Father
John Ambre, and the future Father Pat Kalich was even my guidance counselor.” After high school, Kartje received bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physics and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago’s Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. While working as an astronomer, he began volunteering in a hospital ministry, where talks with patients about their pain and relationships with God became a focal point. Even though he understood their cancer was biological and not caused by God, and that science could cure them, it was the spiritual side of the visits that made him realize science was not his calling. So, instead, he decided to become a priest. Father Kartje was ordained in the Archdiocese of Chicago. As a priest, Bishop Noll continued to influence him. Prayer sessions led by Connolly taught Kartje the method of contemplative prayer. “It impressed me then, and I have continued to practice it to this day. It has been a core element of my priestly spiritual life.” About a year ago, Kartje continued his journey stepping into the leadership role of rector/president at Mundelein Seminary, home to more than 200 seminarians from across the world, including men from the Diocese of Gary. The mission is to “form parish priests who are prepared and excited to bring others to Christ,” Kartje wrote on the seminary’s website.
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Father John Kartje ’83 serves as the rector/president at Mundelein Seminary.
Name: Rev. John Kartje, S.T.D., Ph.D. Noll: Class of 1983; TriValedictorian, Tennis Team, Speech and Debate, National Honor Society, Math Club, “Most Intelligent” Current job: Rector/ president at Mundelein Seminary Noll memories: “Hours and hours spent traveling and competing with the speech and debate team. Dealing with the nervous energy of constantly standing up in front of strangers who are judging your every word and argument built a great sense of camaraderie and the ability to share good laughs together. Now, when I am trying to teach men to improve their quality of public speaking, which priests do so much of, I often rely on the drills and exercises we learned in Speech and Debate.”
Faith
“My family had great faith,” said Bob Buchanan ’82 of his beginnings on Chicago’s Southeast Side, where his parents still live. They had already instilled in him a deep relationship with the church by the time he entered Bishop Noll in the late 1970s, but his devotion and understanding of faith were further cemented by his Catholic education. In the classroom, Mr. Otto Holt and Mrs. LaMere inspired him, along with Noll priests Father Steve Gibson and Principal Father Moszur. On the tennis court, he excelled, reaching the IHSAA individual state finals his senior year at BNI. Despite four knee surgeries, Buchanan still enjoys playing tennis in Austin, Texas, where he lives and works as a neurosurgeon. After attending Noll, Buchanan found himself drawn to both the priesthood and medicine. He explored his faith with the Jesuits while completing medical school. During a psychiatric residency, he met his future wife and made the decision to become a neurosurgeon. Being dual boarded as a psychiatrist and neurosurgeon, which is a rarity, he currently serves as the Seton Brain and Spine Institute’s chief of functional and restorative neurosurgery and neuroscience and holds faculty appointments at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and the University of Texas at Austin. Those experiences, along with his faith, eventually led him to the Pontifical Academy for Life, a collaborative group that advises the pope on bioethical issues. Members, appointed by the pope,
include Catholic scientists, physicians, ethicists, priests and theologians. Buchanan was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. “It was seen as an academy that could be a sister to the Pontifical Academy of Sciences,” he said. “It does great work but with a secular eye. John Paul felt it would give a Catholic spin to the sciences.” The team collaborates in study groups based on language and skill set. Each year, they are given a topic to study and bring together their ideas through a midyear conference call and annual visit to the Vatican. Buchanan said he appreciates being able to work as a layman and a man of faith. One of the best things Pope Francis is doing is understanding the makeup of the church and the importance of lay people in roles within the faith, he said. This includes the “Life” team being led by three lay people. “I think that is a good move,” he said, explaining that the shortage of priests means laymen need to take new roles. He encourages others and believes no matter how you serve your faith, “God loves what you are doing.” As a professor, Buchanan tells his students medicine has little to do with science. “Becoming a physician is vocational. If you feel you have that vocation to give to others, become a doctor. If you love science, become a scientist. “You need to love people and have some understanding of science. You have to work hard. Patients are hard work. Being a doctor is great, but you should follow your passion for what you really like.”
Name: Robert Buchanan, K.M., M.D. Noll: Class of 1982; Tennis Team captain, All State and All American, Varsity Club, Math Club Current job: Neurologist/ psychiatrist in Austin, Texas; member of the Pontifical Academy for Life Noll memories: “I enjoyed high school tennis.”
Bob Buchanan ’82 works on the Pontifical Academy for Life, a collaborative group that advises the pope on bioethical issues.
Leading others by example Noll’s new principal, Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, relies on her Catholic faith every day as she leads the school at which she has been as a student, teacher, coach and admissions coordinator. Jara Pastrick grew up in Whiting, where as a youth she would ride her bike to Sacred Heart Parish to serve as an altar server. Her family’s dedication to its faith, as well as growing up in a Catholic environment, including attending Catholic grade school, encouraged her to live her faith. “My mom is my biggest inspiration,” she said, noting her mother worked in a factory and did sales jobs from home to be able to send her five children to Catholic school.
New Bishop Noll Institute principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick speaks with sophomore summer school students on Aug. 2. (Northwest Indiana Catholic photo by Anthony D. Alonzo)
Name: Lorenza Jara Pastrick Noll: Class of 2001; three-sport athlete (soccer, basketball and softball), Student Council, School Ambassador, homecoming queen, female athlete of the year Current job: Principal at Bishop Noll Institute Noll memories: “My soccer team went 12-6, which was the winningest record in girls’ soccer history at the time.”
“She always started her morning with prayer and taught me by example to be a hard worker. I learned that even though you’re working hard, don’t forget your faith.” Making her mom’s sacrifices worth it, Jara Pastrick loved attending Noll and took advantage of everything she could. She considers Mr. Larry Bentley one of her most influential teachers. “You looked forward to going to his class, and he was hilarious. The environment he set up was inspirational to me. He was himself, and that’s the environment I try to do in my leadership. I try to be welcoming, not take ourselves too seriously but realize we have a job to get done.” She also created lasting memories with her teammates on the soccer field. “We did a lot of team building. We went to Mass together, had breakfast together. They became my family at Bishop Noll.” After high school, Jara Pastrick earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Indiana University, before teaching English and community programming in Costa Rica and eventually starting a career in public schools. Still, she felt unfulfilled and took a leap of faith. She returned to Noll to teach and joined coaching staffs of basketball, soccer and softball. During that time, she married Noll classmate Michael Pastrick and started a family. “I felt at home, like I was doing what God wanted me to do,” she said. “I felt fulfillfed in that and felt this was my calling to education and ministry as a leader in the Catholic schools.” Jara Pastrick continued her growth in Catholic education as principal at St. Casimir School in Hammond for a fiveyear period in which she also pursued her master’s degree in education. Now back at her alma mater, she encourages Noll staff and students to think and act like Jesus. “As a leader of any Catholic institution, your main purpose is to make sure Catholic identity throughout the building is strong. In order to build strong Catholic identity, you have to model it. It should permeate. As soon as you enter the building, people should know it’s a Catholic institution— through prayer, practice and action.”
Leadership
Sharing God’s gift of music The youngest of five children, Martina (Tina) O’Drobinak ’82 said her family was always involved in church. Her parents met in their church choir at St. John the Baptist in Robertsdale and her mother, Gloria, was a church organist for more than 40 years, often taking Tina along to music practice. It’s no surprise that O’Drobinak found herself serving God through her musical talents. She currently serves as the director of liturgy and music at St. John the Evangelist parish in St. John. “When I was looking for a high school, I couldn’t even think of not going to a Catholic school. My oldest brother graduated from Noll in 1969, but then my two sisters and another brother went to a nearby public high school. I remember asking my mom and dad if I could go to Noll, and they made sacrifices so that I could.” Her Noll religion classes fed a love of theology, which she eventually majored in at St. Joseph’s College in Rensselaer. “The Masses and retreats were integral to our Noll experience, as was prayer in the classroom. Also, because Noll had a diverse student population, we all learned from each other and respected the many cultures, races and even other religions,” she said. Among her most inspirational teachers, she said, Father Jack Winterlin was dedicated to the music program at BNI. “His whole life revolved around seeing us succeed. He never thought of himself—only the scores of young people who loved music as much as him—and in return, we loved him.” She also remembers Father John Ambre, director of campus ministry during her time at Noll, as a great religion teacher. “If any students had anything they needed to talk to someone about, he would stay after school and always have a listening heart. When we wanted to have a follow-up retreat experience to the junior/senior retreats at Camp Lawrence, he helped us develop a second-level retreat that we ran for a few years.” She said the selfless dedication of many Noll faculty and staff helped shape her concept of ministry in church. “Because they were strong witnesses to their faith, they believed in the value of Catholic education and made sacrifices to pass the faith on to us. Noll was part of the seamless garment of my Catholic education and formation, along with elementary school at Our Lady of
Perpetual Help (Hammond) and St. Joe’s for college.” As director of liturgy and music at St. John the Evangelist, O’Drobinak ministers with wonderful, talented and generous people, she said.
Tina O’Drobinak, St. John the Evangelist director of liturgy and music, sings during a benediction Aug. 21. (Northwest Indiana Catholic photo by Anthony D. Alonzo)
Name: Tina O’Drobinak Noll: Class of 1982; Mission Club, Clown Ministry, Marquette, JourNoll, Service Club, Choir, All State Choir, Drama Club Current job: Director of Liturgy and Music at St. John the Evangelist Noll memories: “Practically living in the choral room and the theater; the many choir concerts and plays— the Concert Choir was the choir for many Diocesan events; Music Contests (ISSMA)—getting to go downstate after placing first in ensembles/solos locally; being involved in Campus Ministry and retreats.”
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“All the beautiful music, all the prayers of the heart, all the preparation for Sacraments, all the training of liturgical ministers come together in glorious praise of our God. It doesn’t get any better than that.” The beauty of faith is to witness it in whatever vocation or career one chooses, she said. “One of the greatest testaments to Noll alums living out their faith is what we read about in the Noll newsletters … good people making a difference wherever they are. When you take the long view and see generation after generation of men and women formed in the Catholic faith, it’s quite inspiring.” As Noll alums have shown, you can live your faith and talk to others about your love of God in whatever place and situation you find yourself, she said, adding a favorite quote: “Church isn’t where you meet… it isn’t a building. Church is what you do… it is who you are. Church is the human outworking of the person Jesus Christ. Let’s not go to church, let’s be Church!”
Music
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Blending science with Catholicism
i a gradu ton Aaron Daniel, Manny Rosales, Amber Markusic, Billy Maio, Frankie Wisniewski and Brendan Mulholland share a smile before walking into the baccalaureate Mass at Holy Angels Cathedral.
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The class of 2016 celebrates by tossing their mortarboards at the end of the ceremony.
Valedictorian Victoria Johnson talks to her classmates about the high school years they have shared and her hopes for their futures.
BNI Ninety-Third Commencement
Valedictorian Victoria Johnson echoed his sentiments in her speech, noting the class of 2016 was an incredibly intelligent, talented and creative class. “Our talents vary from academics, sports and arts. We are a wonderfully diverse class, and I wouldn’t have wanted to spend the last four years with a different group of people. Every single one of us has something special to offer this world and I believe we will all do great things.” In the ceremony’s closing remarks, President Paul Mullaney told the class of 2016 they were joining the ranks of Bishop Noll alumni saying, “I welcome you into this special association of more than 20,000 sisters and brothers who have graduated from this truly special place.”
The class of 2016 shared laughter, tears, words of encouragement and prayer during graduation June 3. Although the high school journey came to an end for the 119 seniors, their life as Bishop Noll alumni has just begun. Salutatorian Brendan Mulholland said their Bishop Noll diplomas were a symbol of his class’s accomplishments and experiences. That’s the great thing about going to Bishop Noll, he said. “Each of us was able to make more friends and accomplish more and get better experiences than we would be able to get a larger school because we come from such a small family where we got to know everyone.”
“You will be amazed in your future trials and endeavors, the number of times you will run into, unexpectedly, Bishop Noll alums. They are all over the place.” He said the class should always remember they are Warriors. “I hope and pray for you that you will remain Warriors for what is important. Warriors for peace, Warriors for social justice, Warriors for the sanctity of life, Warriors for Catholic education, Warriors for living the Gospel message, Warriors for whatever it is that will make for a more cohesive family, a stronger community and a better world....Also, remember this is your home and we are family, so please come home and visit when you can.”
The class of 2016 by the numbers
113
119 46 $ 7.88 million 2 11 Graduates
Salutatorian Brendan Mulholland gives his speech, noting he and his classmates are ready to face the world.
Graduates attending college
Attending
different colleges and universities
Scholarship offers received
Entering military
playing sports at collegiate level
Aaliyah Porter, Jessica Quezada, Tara Radziwiecki, Yijie Ren and Jason Repass enjoy some last moments together before walking the stage.
5 Richard Ocampo displays his class year with pride. The class of 2016 included 119 graduates.
Winterlin Scholarship recipient Hailey DeWolf, left, sings “For Good” with fellow choir member Amelia Chavez.
Chris Lopez, Gabe Anguiano, Erin Mullaney, Natalie Garcia, Lindsay Ksiazek, and Amanda Biro wait for the baccalaureate Mass to begin.
Sarah Perez, Cecily Pierce, Liliana Pinedo, Matthew Pizana and Theresa Plascencia await their diplomas.
Bishop Noll’s oldest known living alum—Miss Ida Polito, Catholic Central class of ’35, relived high school graduation in June with a special party hosted for her at her residence at Hartsfield Village in Munster. Ida commented that her days at Noll are some of the best memories of her life! Ida walked into the room to applause and the piano playing the graduation march. She wore a cap and gown provided by Bishop Noll and enjoyed some delicious graduation cake for dessert. Many blessings to Ida who has volunteered hundreds of hours to her alma mater and always kept Noll in her heart.
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New curriculum focuses on future
Expanded curriculum for the 2016–17 school year will propel Noll students into the future by adding elective courses in engineering, computer technology, STEM and theology. These new courses increase the number of dual credit courses offered at BNI. College professors from Purdue University Northwest and Calumet College of St. Joseph are instructing the new electives. These courses are important to continue to offer new and innovative opportunities to all of our students. Dr. Donald Gray ’82, an associate professor in the department of electrical and computer engineering at Purdue University Northwest, is teaching “Principles of Engineering,” in which students learn various engineering and electrical circuitry concepts, plus MATLAB functions to control programs remotely. Following completion of this one-semester course, successful students will be eligible to register for an additional elective taught by Gray that will delve deeper into engineering principles. Kurt Jordan, an associate professor of computer information systems at Calumet College of St. Joseph, is teaching dual credit computer programming. Also in the coming year, the STEM program at Noll will expand to incorporate Religion (“R”) and the Arts (“A”), fully integrating two of BNI’s curricular hallmarks into the STEM process as BNI will boast northwest Indiana’s only high school STREAM program. A new dual credit theology course for seniors titled “Biblical Literature” is taught by the Rev. Kevin Scalf, C.PP.S., Bishop Noll’s chaplain who is director of the Theology program at Calumet College of St. Joseph. Three college-level credits will be issued upon successful completion of this one-semester course. These courses all meet an increasing demand for STEM in the classroom. Bishop Noll will be entering its third year as the only high school in northern Indiana working under the guidance of Dr. Carla Johnson, a published and noted STEM education expert from Purdue University in West Lafayette.
New faculty and staff welcomed to Noll
Shown are, in front from left, Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, principal; Brandi Krolak, athletic director; Josh Belko, social studies teacher; and Ryan Julian, social studies teacher. In back are Jennifer Florek, communications specialist; Colin McCullough ’05, STEM teacher and football coach; Brian Pillar, business teacher; Donald Gray ’82, engineering teacher; and Dr. Matthew Archer, theology teacher.
With a “Bollywood” theme, prom attendees walk through pink and orange decorations before dancing the night away at Cloister in the Woods in Munster.
This spring, we hosted our first Blue Mass, which honored alums and family members who are first responders. Carly Sanchez, now a junior, is shown with her family after the Mass.
Band and Choir news
Marching Warriors are scheduled to take to the field Dec. 30 for the Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tenn. They will spend three days in Memphis and visit Graceland, Sun Studios and the Civil Rights Museum as well as prepare for their performance. The game will be shown at noon (Eastern) on ESPN.
Prayer Breakfast The Bishop Noll Choir performed during the National Day of Prayer breakfast in Hammond this spring. They will continue to share their gift of music this year at school Masses, concerts and throughout Northwest Indiana.
Jaime Avila ’16 and Yazmine Aceves ’16 look regal in their crowns as prom king and queen.
BNI drama department brought the Wildcats to the stage with its production of “High School Musical” this spring.
Studying abroad The World Languages Department sponsored two foreign travel opportunities this summer. Noll students visited and experienced cultures and languages of France and Italy. Each year, students travel to France as part of the Bishop Noll French Exchange program. During this year’s 12-day visit, students attended classes at partner schools in the Loire Valley, home of France’s most beautiful and historic chateaux, and in the north of France, where they also attended a reception at the mayor’s office, visited Lille, France, and spent a sunny Sunday afternoon with their northern exchange partners in Bruges, Belgium. The trip ended in Paris with visits to many popular sites including the Catacombs, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. A highlight of the Paris visit was shopping many famous designers during France’s annual sale. Noll students enjoyed the sights in Rome on their first day in Italy. Spanish teacher Patricia Aguila-Castellanos and Dean of Students Matt Chico ’02 chaperoned the 10-day trip, organized by EF Tours. Students visited Rome, Florence, Venice, Verona, Assisi, Pisa, and the Vatican. They took a gondola ride, visited the Spanish steps, visited various churches, saw the leaning tower of Pisa and other sites. The group of students was amazing, Chico said.
As a reward for kicking off the first two weeks of the school year right, Principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01 and Dean Matt Chico ’02 provided some cold treats for all students and staff. Noll Student Ambassadors helped hand out the treats.
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sports news
Campus ministry Stacia Bolakowski
Words. I have been a lover of words my entire life. I talked at an early age, have been an avid reader since I was 6, won the Creative Writing Award my senior year of high school, went on to major in literature and writing in college, and have taught high school English classes for more than 25 years. Words. As a result of my love of words, I also enjoy collecting inspirational quotes. These tiny morsels of wisdom have often brought me out of a funk after a long week at school, or have motivated me to do the right thing at the right time—especially in the exercise and healthy eating departments. My all-time favorite inspirational quote is from my all-time favorite novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird.” In it, Atticus Finch tells his daughter, Scout: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Powerful words to live by. Words. I feel like so many of my fellow human beings struggle lately with Mr. Finch’s sage wisdom about understanding each other. It seems we more often use our words to harm instead of help, especially behind the false mask of social media. The barrage of negative news stories on TV, radio, and online seems endless: even some of our decorated U.S. Olympic athletes used false words to try to save themselves from an embarrassing situation in Rio…only to make it worse when their lie was discovered and reported worldwide. Actions. But if I have learned one thing as a campus minster and educator over the years, it is that—as St. Ignatius of Loyola told us— actions speak louder than words. And it is through the positive and inspiring actions of the Bishop Noll student body that I get great encouragement. Here are some recent events worthy of my words: • 50 sophomores, juniors and seniors started planning and working in July to put together the annual Freshman Retreat held Sunday, Aug. 28. They did a phenomenal job in demonstrating to the newest 129 members of the BNI family how to “Let go, and let God” work in their lives over the next four years. • The Warrior football team under the leadership of Coach McCullough has been gathering for Mass on Thursday afternoons before practice, putting their faith and prayer-life into action off the field as well as on. On Thursday, Aug. 25, they took things one step further by traveling to rival Andrean High School to participate in a combined team Mass and dinner before giving their all on the field the next evening. • BNI students, faculty, staff, and several guests celebrated a wonderful first all-school Mass with Bishop Hying on Wednesday, Aug. 31. Their singing and prayerful response as members of the Body of Christ was truly awesome and wonderful to witness. So, the next time words fail or disappoint us, remember it is in the Christ-like actions of others—and of ourselves—where we must look for truth, honesty, and forgiveness. Peace Miss “B” (Stacia Bolakowski) Bishop Noll Campus Minister
Thinking outside of the box, Noll teacher Rosalie Schmidt ’70 had junior and senior anatomy and physiology students create their own T-shirts to learn about anatomy. Students seemed to enjoy the project, she said.
For more than 10 years, Student Council has organized a fundraiser to raise money for "Noll House," which builds a house for a poor family in the Caribbean or Latin America. This year’s house was built for a family in Haiti (pictured above) and dedicated in memory of Larry Bentley. “It was great to see the school come together for such a great cause,” said BNI math teacher and Student Council sponsor Colie Zwierz. Student Council’s goal was to raise $3,500, which was surpassed by almost $500! Students and faculty worked together and raised $725 online and $3,280 at school. Since the cost to build a home is $3,200, the extra money raised went toward providing the family with a solar powered light kit, water pump, rice and beans.
In March, 11 Noll students attended the Purdue University Engineering Expo in West Lafayette accompanied by Richard Sobilo ’83 and D.J. Cipowski ’97. At Purdue, they were put into three teams, two of which placed in the top 20 out of 60 teams. There were 25 high schools in attendance. The expo was run by Purdue University Student Engineering Foundation, consisting of undergraduate engineering students, and consisted of a guest speaker, quiz, open house within various engineering disciplines and an impromptu design challenge.
Campus Minister Stacia Bolakowski and BNI Chaplain Rev. Kevin Scalf take a break with 2016 alums Thomas Starks and Natalie Garcia during Kairos Spring 2016. The seniors were co-rectors of the Kairos 9 retreat. Jordan Lomellin ’16 receives a hug during Kairos 9 spring retreat.
Former BNI teacher and coach Brandi Krolak returns to Noll as its new athletic director. Krolak taught English at Noll from 2000 to 2003, and also coached volleyball and softball. She was on the faculty at Lake Central since 2003.
Colin McCullough ’05, who played football and ran track for BNI’s Warriors and has been an assistant coach for six seasons at local high schools, was named the new head football coach for the Warriors this spring. “I am both humble and ecstatic about the opportunity to come home to my alma mater and give the next generation of Warriors what Bishop Noll gave to me,” McCullough said. “I have learned so much from the coaches I played for and the colleagues I coached with.” McCullough played football at Earlham College in Richmond, Ind., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business management. In 2012, he received a master’s degree in communications from Northwestern University. Around the time her classmates were receiving their diplomas, track and field star Shana Cooper ’16 was competing at IHSAA State Track Finals. She placed 7th in the 100-meter dash with a time of 12.47 and 8th in the 200-meter dash with a time of 25.45. It was Cooper’s fourth trip to the state finals, an amazing achievement! Because Cooper would miss graduation to compete, Noll staff held a special ceremony for her a few days prior to the finals.
The BNI boys’ basketball team was sectional champion for a third straight year!
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Bishop Noll’s Warriors were sectional baseball champions following a 4–0 victory over River Forest at Whiting Oil City Stadium. This was the 25th sectional baseball title in school history.
’16 grads playing at the collegiate level
Shana Cooper, track and field, Indiana State University Kodi Greenwell, basketball, Indiana Tech University Shawn Haugh, baseball, DePauw University Eryk Jones, baseball, Franklin College Tori Keilman, softball, St. Joseph College Akil McClain, basketball, Trine University Erin Mullaney, basketball, Indiana University Northwest Brenda Pennington, basketball, Owens Community College Matt Pizana, football, Concordia University Delaney Soto, volleyball, South Suburban College Marcos Keefe, track and field, Marian University
par for the course Golf outing sponsors
BNI Golf Invitational
A fun and lively group of golfers took over Innsbrook Country Club July 18 for the Bishop Noll Institute Golf Invitational, raising over $13,000. More than 100 alumni and friends attended the outing and dinner in Merrillville, exceeding the amount of participants and fundraising from last year. Pete Doherty ’71, golf outing committee member, said the event started in the ’90s as a fundraiser to support scholarships. “The whole event is first class,” he said. Golfers enjoyed a buffet lunch before hitting the course. A beverage cart and snacks along the way kept golfers energized as they competed and played games along the course. During dinner, an auction was held to raise funds for a special scholarship in memory of Dennis Koliboski. See Page 12 for more details. Committee member David Padilla ’91 said he has participated the past 10 years and it is always a great day, especially catching up with friends at the reception before dinner. “It’s a fun event and great opportunity to support Noll,” he said. The next BNI Golf Invitational takes place July 17, 2017. Mark your calendars.
This foursome consisting of Paul ’85 and Joe ’73 Majchrowicz, director of Catholic schools, and friends had fun trying to go home in a new car at the hole-in-one contest.
10 A father and his sons won first place at the invitational. Shown, from left, are Phil ’74, John ’84, Paul, Paul ’68 and Pete ’71 Doherty. They finished at 10 under par and went home with some prizes and bragging rights.
Stu Lorenz, Bonnie Lorenz, Becky Lee and Robby Lorenz ’13 celebrate Robby’s win at the putting contest. Any participant who sank the putt went home with a sleeve of golf balls and was entered into a drawing for a prize package. D.J. Cipowski ’97 takes his shot.
Cocktail sponsorS Tim Mertz ’63 Bob Vellutini ’63 Marty Tintari ’63 Jim Vellutini ’90 Dinner sponsor Dave Surufka ’71
Beverage sponsor Mike Whelan ’85 In memory of Coach Dennis Koliboski Alum sponsor Dan Marias ’68 Sign Sponsor McShane’s, Inc. Tee sponsors Adrienne Gomez ’70 Austgen, Kuiper, Jasaitis P.C./ Neil J. Simstad Calumet Bakery Class of 1959 DLZ Doherty Images/Peter Doherty ’71 Dr. Amy J. Wadas ’88 El Ranchero in Hobart/Steve Salinas FABSCO Corp/Kevin O’Neill ’76 Foundations of East Chicago Gard Family Hammond Machine Works/ Peter Nau ’75 Jeff Cipowski ’83 Knights of Columbus—Munster Korellis Roofing Kusiak Construction/David Kusiak ’87 Lithographic Communications/ Richard Pietrzak McDonald’s NIES/Neil J. Simstad Peoples Bank Proven IT Rick Tolin ’83 Structure Point TEK Landscaping/Todd King ’88 Whelan Family Hole in one sponsor Team Volkswagen/Audi Merrillville
Rich Schreiner ’63 helps a teammate sink the ball. Dave Padilla ’91, Robert Aceves ’85, Pete Aceves, John Fife ’78 and Glenn Weyand enjoy a buffet lunch before grabbing their carts for the afternoon.
General sponsors Bootleg Liquors/Vince Soto Burns Kish Funeral Home/Tom Burns Pete Doherty ’71 Ideations/Lisa Kusiak ’88 Innsbrook Country Club Julianne Luketic Acevez ’91 Frank Mrvan, North Township Trustee Craig Nagdeman Dave Padilla ’91 Michael ’09 and Matthew ’13 Sandoval Dave Surufka ’71
the big event a big success When Emporium organizers decided to revamp the traditional dinner-dance fundraiser, they hoped a more laid-back atmosphere and lower ticket price would attract a wider range of alumni. In its second year, The Big Event raised over $53,000 for student scholarships, proving the change is working. This year’s event took place April 29 in the school fieldhouse and included a night of food, drinks, dancing, raffles, live auction and contests. Adding new entertainment each year such as a bags tournament and putting contest helps keep the event fresh. Many attendees enjoyed donning Bishop Noll vintage and current gear for photos that were posted to our alumni Facebook and Twitter accounts. Next year’s event will take place Friday, April 28, 2017. For sponsorship information, contact Juli Sandoval at (219) 932-9058 or jsandoval@bishopnoll.org.
Mary J. Whelan Golf Outing
The fifth annual Bishop Noll Building Fund Outing took place June 13 at Briar Ridge Country Club in Munster. The sun was shining for the 164 golfers, who are Chicagoland subcontractors and suppliers who work with Walsh Construction. Chaired by Lori ’85 and Mike ’85 Whelan, this outing started as an idea in 2012 to raise enough money to remodel the auditorium that needed a redo after 50-plus years of use. “We felt if we could get some new construction projects started at Bishop Noll, that great things would happen,” Mike said. “It was such a success that we decided to do it again and we just kept it going. After my mom’s (Mary) passing, we named the outing in her honor. She was a strong supporter and believer in a Catholic Education and made us what we are today so we would honor her in this way.” The event has raised more than for $400,000 for Bishop Noll Institute building projects to date. “We have committed to Bishop Noll that we would organize the outing for at least two more years as part of our commitment to raise capital funds for projects at Bishop Noll Institute. It is our belief that BNI is a special place and it plays a very important role in shaping our community and the future leaders of America,” Lori said.
Mike Whelan’s team takes a break from the course.
The Class of 1963 loves to have a good time together and their table at The Big Event was filled with laughter and reminiscing.
Luann Kesic ’87, Courtney Markovich ’95, and Dan Markovich ’98 volunteer at The Big Event.
Posing together in Noll gear are friends Jorge Gomez ’12, front left, Josh Galgan ’12, Jon Bock ’12 and Quinn Cloghessy ’10. In back are Alberto Anguiano ’10 and Matt Sandoval ’13.
The Class of 1985 has a fun night out at The Big Event. Shown are Jenny Pate, Bill Galgan, Peggy O’Rourke, PJ Klocek, Debbie Mereno, Diane Kania, Lisa Perz, Diane Perez, Lori Whelan, Mike Whelan and Nancy Repay.
Members of the Class of 1976 pose together in the photo booth. In back are Kevin O’Neill, Lee Smolen, Mark Cloghessy, Ed Mamrila, Dave Skibinski, and Tim Cichon. In middle are Nancy Bock, Sue Mamrila, Mary Daly, and Edith Josvai. In front is Dave Dolak.
Rose ’11 and Paul ’77 Mullaney have some fatherdaughter time in the photo booth.
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giving back Leaving a legacy
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For the past 96 years, Bishop Noll Institute has provided an outstanding Christ-centered education and a solid foundation upon which many alumni have built successful lives. We invite you to become a partner in advancing our mission for the future by making a planned gift to Bishop Noll. Creating a planned gift is an effective way to say thank you and give back. Planned gifts give both you, the donor, and Bishop Noll an opportunity to create future goals. A planned gift also gives you the opportunity to leave your legacy in the halls of BNI and in the hearts and minds of our students for generations to come. You can direct your gift to areas you feel strongly about such as financial assistance for our students, building improvements, and teacher’s continuing education, or you can give an unrestricted gift that allows Bishop Noll to use it where it is needed most. While it may be difficult to give an outright cash donation to support the mission of Bishop Noll Institute, a planned gift is one way that you can show your gratitude and support, without using present cash-flow. Planned gifts are critical for the mission of Bishop Noll and will allow future generations of region families the opportunity to receive a Bishop Noll education. Likewise, a planned gift is a living legacy of your commitment to quality Catholic education, and is a witness of your desire to be a good steward of the gifts God has given you. A planned gift may have some financial tax benefits for you and can add protection to your assets. Planned giving offers you the opportunity to contribute to Bishop Noll at a level beyond what is solely possible from your income. In fact, it is possible to make a planned gift to Bishop Noll that costs you nothing within your lifetime. Regardless of your income level, there are several ways you can make a significant contribution to Bishop Noll Institute through a planned gift: • Bequests/Wills—A charitable bequest is the simplest of all planned gifts. It allows you the opportunity to make a substantial contribution to further the mission of Bishop Noll without drawing on your present resources. Bequests meet the needs of many donors because they provide the school with a specific amount, or percentage of the estate that remains after payments are made to all other heirs.
• Gift of Real Estate or Residence— Provides an immediate income tax deduction and estate tax savings. • Beneficiary Designations—You may name Bishop Noll Institute a beneficiary of a Life Insurance Policy, Retirement Fund, IRA, 401(k), Savings Account, or CD. • Trusts and Annuities—Trusts and annuities can be an advantage both to you and to Bishop Noll by providing a lifetime income, while making a generous gift to BNI at the same time. A properly planned estate or deferred gift to Bishop Noll Institute offers potential tax and other financial benefits for your estate and heirs. It is important that you consider how charitable gifts might impact your overall estate plan. We encourage you to consult with your attorney or financial advisor prior to making a planned gift to Bishop Noll. We welcome the opportunity to work with you and your advisors directly.
Honoring a special coach
In February 2016, longtime BNI boys’ golf coach Dennis Koliboski passed away unexpectedly. For 12 years Dennis coached the boys’ golf team, and previously both boys’ and girls’ golf teams at BNI. Dennis was loved and respected by his players, with many keeping in touch with him long after they graduated from BNI. “Dennis helped me in many ways while he was my coach. He inspired me to have confidence in myself, to play with integrity, to be humble in both defeat and victory, and most importantly to respect the game,” said Brendan O’Neill ’10, a former student of Dennis. “Those lessons among others helped me grow to love the game of golf, which has become an important part of my life. Dennis also guided us as golfers by showing us how the values we learned on the golf course directly translated into helping us become good contributing members of our community. Dennis not only helped improve my golf game, he helped me grow as a person.” Always supportive of Bishop Noll, Dennis rarely missed the chance to participate in the Annual BNI Golf Invitational. His presence at the golf outing was sorely missed in July by former students, alumni and family. A special live auction took place that night to raise funds for the Dennis Koliboski Award. The award will be a monetary award presented to a graduating senior on either the boys’ or girls’ golf teams who has demonstrated leadership, sportsmanship and a passion for the game of golf.
Shown at the 2015 golf outing are Vince Berta ’76, from left, Dennis Koliboski, Brendan O’Neill ’10, and Kevin O’Neill ’76, who were invitational champions that year.
If you would like to support the fu nding of this award, plea se to the attention of send your donation Mary Ellen O’Ne ill Director of Adva ncement. We kind , ly ask that checks re fer Koliboski Award” ence the “Dennis an payable to Bishop d are made Noll Institute.
Winterlin Award recipients sing with heart
When Hailey DeWolf and Jacob Herr entered Bishop Noll Institute as freshmen, the choir had 22 students. When they graduated June 3, the choir had grown to more than 70 students thanks to leadership and enthusiasm from students like them.
Hailey DeWolf, left, and Jacob Herr received the Rev. John Winterlin Award for their dedication to the Bishop Noll Choir.
In honor of their dedication, both students received the Rev. John Winterlin Award at graduation. This monetary scholarship is presented to a current member of the Bishop Noll choir in memory of Winterlin, who served as chairman of the Fine Arts Department at Bishop Noll and taught music and theology from 1969 to 1988. Although the scholarship is typically given to one student, this year Noll choir director David Herr was able to award it to two. He said scholarship criteria include: exemplary attendance in class and performances at Masses and concerts at both Bishop Noll and throughout Northwest Indiana. Recipients also must regularly display enthusiasm and positive energy in the classroom and at concerts as well as
motivate and inspire others. “They have to set an example of leadership to the other choir students,” he said. “The biggest thing is that they have to be part of the creative process. They need to come in and present some of their own ideas and suggestions that help shape the curriculum of the choir. Both students plan to pursue fine arts in college. Mr. Herr said that regardless of career they choose, they will continue to apply skills that they have obtained at Bishop Noll. “Learning to be patient, learning dedication and commitment and inspiring others...they can take everything they learned here in the fine arts and use it the rest of their lives and I know that they will.” DeWolf, of Hammond and a St. John Bosco School alum, wants to pursue singing and acting and is thinking about attending graduate school to study acting. She said receiving the scholarship was an absolute honor. DeWolf said the Fine Arts Department has grown immensely since her freshmen year and credits that to current teachers “Mr. Herr, Mr. Carioto and Mr. Burgun as well as Mr. Cotey who gave me my start.” “I’m very impressed with the progress—as is everyone in my family and everyone who comes here to see the shows—it’s a big difference from when we started,” she said. Jacob Herr, of St. John and a St. Thomas More School grad, said, “By no means was being in theater my original plan. I wanted to be a musician because I was playing bass and was in a band.” During his sophomore year, he performed in “The Breakfast Club” and was hooked after joining the cast of “Young Frankenstein.” He knew theater was what he wanted to do. The Noll graduate now plans to major in theater and minor in history at Butler University.
Those who were insp Winterlin and wh ired by Fr. o would like to contribute to futu re funding of this award, can send donations to the attention of Mary El Director of Institu len O’Neill, tional Advancem ent, Bishop Noll Insti tute, 1519 Hoffm an St., Hammond IN 46327. Checks sh ou reference the “W interlin Award” an ld d be made payable to Bishop Noll Insti tute.
Michele Hauter ’98 donates kidney to stranger in need
Kindness and service to others are hallmarks of a Bishop Noll education that remain with students well past their high school years.
Michele Hauter Butts ’98 with her family—husband, Clint, and children Owen, 9; Ethan, 8; and Lea, 5.
Alum Michele Hauter Butts ’98 showed the true spirit of service to others this summer when she donated an organ to a total stranger. Michele always said if she knew someone who needed a kidney, she would donate. When no family or friends had the need, she decided to give hers to a stranger instead. The Hammond native felt especially inspired by a co-worker who received a kidney 14 years ago. In January, he was diagnosed with cancer related to immunosuppessant and anti-rejection drugs taken since his transplant. “As devastating as his (cancer) diagnosis was, he was still so grateful he got all the extra years he got with his family due to the kindness of a stranger who stepped forward to donate to him. I left that conversation and told my husband that I was going to look into donation.
“I didn’t even know if it was possible to donate if you didn’t have a specific person to donate to, but I know people are dying every day waiting for kidneys.” After doing online research about altruistic donation, Michele called the closest transplant center, which happened to be in her current hometown of Tucson, Arizona. The whole process from initial contact to surgery day took five months, with surgery taking place July 5. The laparoscopic procedure took three and a half hours and Michele stayed in the hospital two nights. The mom of three said her husband, Clint, and parents were nervous for her but supportive. She learned that her kidney recipient was a young woman around her age who had been on dialysis for a while. “I feel like I was called to do this and I had faith that everything would go smoothly and have a good outcome for both of us,” she said. Butt’s aunt Rosalie Schmidt ’70 teaches in the Science Department at Bishop Noll. Schmidt said her niece’s decision to donate her kidney made the family proud. Butt’s grandma Norma Hauter Pajda said, “Michele’s decision was about someone else. She doesn’t think of herself. As a family, we honor her spirit of giving.”
GRAND PRIZE
$20,000 CASH 2nd Prize 3rd Prize 4th–7th Prizes
2016
$5,000 CASH $2,000 CASH $500 CASH
Donation: $10.00 Drawing: November 29, 2016 at Bishop Noll Institute
Call BNI to buy your tickets today 219-932-9058
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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 # 139183
noll notes 1949
William Richter William works several days a week as a volunteer, including serving as a red coat one night a week at St. Mary’s Hospital in Hobart. His son Paul completed his five years of training to become a nurse May 5, 2016. Paul is the 10th born. “God has been good to all of us, God bless all.”
1952
Rev. William T. Burke, S.J. After graduating from Bishop Noll in 1952 William attended Loyola University. He entered the Jesuits in 1959, and was ordained a Jesuit Priest in 1969. He is presently retired at Colombiere Center in Clarkston, MI.
1956
Bob Bradtke
1957
Laurie Finerty Koselke Laurie has retired from real estate and is now running The Bookworm used and rare books, full time.
1958
Mike Puskar Mike, who played varsity baseball at Noll, has been playing in the 55 and older senior softball league on Marco Island, Fla., for the past seven years. Ralph Sanchez Ralph lives in Sand Springs, Okla. and is 76 years old. He writes, “It’s hell getting old.”
1959
Ruth Strode Robertson Ruth enjoyed visiting with her classmates in 2015, marking their 56th reunion. She is looking forward to the next one!
1961
Class of 1961
daughters who work in educational reform and non-violence training. Dan is married to Carol Pogash, a journalist and author, and lives in the San Francisco bay area. Nancy Nau Sullivan Nancy published a book with Amphorae Publishing Group in April—The Last Cadillac: A Memoir—and she would like to say that there is life after Sister Georgia’s sophomore journalism class (though at the time she had her doubts). She has lived outside the Region off and on for years, but is now back in the area.
1966
Rita Dziadowicz Strossner Rita is enjoying her retirement and traveling around the U.S. and Europe!
1968
Dennis G. Fech After 30 plus years as a fundraising professional, including nine years at Bishop Noll, Dennis is semi-retired but staying busy. He has been working in insurance sales in the medical market and preparing taxes for the past four years.
Christine Greenberg Christine has retired from teaching and taken up nursing in her spare time. She currently works as a CNA at Community Hospital in Munster, Ind., and enjoys running into and hearing from former students.
1973
Roy M Cuevas Roy is living in California and working as a system engineer consultant for Federal Engineering. Joe Majchrowicz Joe retired in June 2012 as superintendent of schools in suburban Illinois. He then worked as a part-time superintendent in Burnham, Ill. In August 2016, he was named director of schools for the Diocese of Gary. He and his wife live in Schererville and have four children.
1982
Donald Gray Donald Gray, Ph.D., is teaching a dual credit engineering course at Bishop Noll this school year. Dr. Gray is an associate professor in the department of electrical and
Bob was recognized in June at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on the 60th anniversary of his competition on the 1956 Indiana All-Star basketball team.
Oliva M. Magurany Schutz For the past 10 years, Olivia has lived in Brookville, Fla., where she volunteers at Bayfront Health, Brooksville. Her husband, George, passed away in January 2015. Marilyn Giedemann Woidat Marilyn retired from obstetric nursing in 1997 and keeps busy with her six granddaughters and four grandsons ages 13–21. She is enjoying the golden years and just celebrated her 55th wedding anniversary.
James R. Tuttle James graduated from Bishop Noll in 1989 and joined the US Navy in August 1991. He’s currently on his 25th year of active duty service. He was promoted to the rank of senior chief (E-8) last year and is currently serving on board Naval Air Station Fort Worth, Texas.
Pictured is James R. Tuttle at his promotion ceremony with his wife, Kristi, son Tristan and daughters Abby and Rennah.
2000
Rebecca Dostatni Alum and Noll teacher Rebecca Dostatni was honored as a 2016 Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year. A veteran biology teacher and BNI’s Science Department chairperson, Dostatni teaches STEM exploration and has been an integral member of the faculty team responsible for the STEM curriculum rollout in 2015.
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Marjorie Janz Weaver Marjorie loved her four years at Noll, but loves Fernandina, Fla., even more! She has been married to her husband John almost 60 years, and has five children, 11 grandchildren and one great grandchild...so far!
1989
2010
Eric Roldan Eric Roldan received the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Outstanding Student Leadership Award during Honors Day at Trine University. Eric graduated this spring with a Bachelor of Science in business administration with a major in sports management and a minor in marketing.
The Florence (Kentucky) Freedom signed him out of the 2016 California Winter League where the right-hander posted a team-leading 1.33 ERA in 20 1/3 innings (20 appearances). The reliever allowed only 10 hits and 10 walks on the season, while striking out 31 and holding opponents to a .141 batting average.
Softball rewind
In July Matt Poberyko joined the Arizona League Diamondbacks in Scottsdale, Arizona, a rookie-level affiliate of the Diamondbacks.
A number of former BNI softball players came to BNI’s final regularseason home game vs. Marquette May 21, and most stuck around afterward for an alumni game.
2012
Taylr Davis and Shannon M. Whelan Taylr and Shannon are BNI class of 2012 classmates and both recently graduated from Saint Mary’s College in South Bend, Ind.
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Dostatni also recently earned her master’s degree in biology from Purdue University Calumet.
2001 The Class of 1961 reunited for its 55th reunion Aug. 27 at Briar Ridge Country Club.
1971
Frank Schilling Frank Schilling was chosen by a panel of community leaders convened by The Times Media Co. to be inducted into the 2016 Times Business & Industry Hall of Fame.
Marlene Zloza Marlene Zloza joined the Northwest Indiana Catholic newspaper as the staff writer in February. She previously worked 11 ½ years at The Times Media Co. Marlene lives in Hobart and is a proud member of Holy Spirit Church in Winfield.
1963
1972
1962
Dan Detzner Dan Detzner graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1967. He completed graduate degrees at Georgetown and the University of Minnesota and is retiring this year as a tenured professor and dean from the University of Minnesota. His research, teaching, and program development focused on immigrants, social gerontology, and prison reform. Dan has two
Luis F. Molina Community Foundation of Northwest Indiana promoted Luis to the position of Community Hospital CEO in July. Molina has served as the chief financial officer at the hospital in Munster since 2007 and has been the administrator of Community Care Network since 2013.
computer engineering at Purdue University Northwest.
1983
Daniel O’Brien Daniel R. O’Brien joined Community Hospital as chief financial officer this summer. Since 2002, he has held various executive level positions with Academic Medical Center Connection, formerly known as University Health system Consortium, Chicago. He served there as a member of the senior executive team responsible for strategic direction and operations.
Standing, from left, are Venus Serrano ’08, current Warriors coach Rich Sobilo ’83, Jessica Miles ’09, Mandy Miles ’06, Jade Acevedo ’14, Denise Sobilo ’71, Elena Sobilo ’14, Dennis Keilman ’68, and Coach John Subovcak. Kneeling, from left, are Allison (Rokosz) Upchurch ’06, Nikki Serrano ’09, Monica Martin ’14 , Rose Mullaney ’11, and Julie Keilman ’96.
Lorenza Jara Pastrick was named the new principal of Bishop Noll Institute this year. She previously worked at Noll as a teacher and coach before spending five years as principal of St. Casimir School in Hammond.
2005
Colin McCullough was named Noll’s new head football coach this year. McCullough received a master’s degree in communications from Northwestern University in 2012.
Shannon Whelan, left, and Taylr Davis
Eileen O’Neill Eileen graduated from Indiana University in May, 2016 with a degree in accounting and finance from the Kelley School of Business. She has accepted a position as a tax accountant with PriceWaterhouseCoopers in Chicago. Stella Sobilo, a former Noll coach, sits between her daughter Denise ’71 and granddaughter Elena ’14.
save the date The Big Event: April 28, 2017 BNI Golf Invitational: July 17, 2017
in memoriam Please remember those who have gone to their eternal rest.
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1943 John “Jack” Deasy 1944 Frank Cizon 1944 Robert Pedroza 1945 Dolores Fleischer Baydowicz 1945 Patricia Usher Mier 1947 Edward Grskovich 1948 Catherine Pavol Krueger 1948 Raymond Lawson 1948 Kenneth Straka 1949 Rita Pszczola Hynek 1949 Josephine Michalik 1950 Joann McGroarty Doris 1951 James Broviak 1953 Mary Ann Black Baker 1953 Henry “Hank” Govert 1953 Thomas F. Hicks 1953 Thomas Knoerzer 1953 Virginia Poppe Robertson 1955 John G. Barker 1955 Dr. William J. Sabo, Jr. 1957 Joyce Larson Dull 1957 Steven Goffinett 1957 Carolyn Polus Handzel 1957 Judith A. King 1957 Betty Lou Wachowiak Zimbelman 1960 Joseph C. Bielefeld 1961 Phyllis Gasinski Bender 1961 Dr. John F. Csicsko
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
1961 Julianna Jonas Hanaway 1962 Raymond Hays 1964 James P. Sherman 1965 Dr. Robert Meisterling 1966 Dennis Hahney 1966 John Grudzien 1967 John F. Burns 1967 Frances Shulock Fischer 1967 Renee Marinelli Klee 1968 Paul Joseph Austgen 1968 Matthew Niemiec 1970 Thomas Jazak 1970 David Oblon 1970 Patricia Stur Fedinets 1972 Randolph Martinez 1973 Mary Anne Prashina 1974 Joan Mastey Murphy 1979 Cynthia Comer Gonzalez 1983 Douglas Gorence 2000 Dana Diaz Del Real 2003 Tara Diaz Sermino 2008 Jaclyn Wigsmoen Former Teacher Rev. Robert Charlebois Former Staff Mrs. Martha Billingsley Friends Trudy Swentko, wife of Walter Swentko ’67
A note from the Advancement Office: If there is someone that has passed away who is part of the Bishop Noll family, we appreciate you letting us know. You can call Mary Ellen O’Neill at 219-932-9058, ext. 1002 or e-mail at moneill@bishopnoll.org. Thank You!
Helping a pro
If you watched the U.S. Women’s Open golf tournament in July, you probably saw BNI alumnus Jeff King ’91 on the telecast. King, a professional caddie, worked for 22-year-old South Korean star Sung Photo courtesy of golfchannel.com Hyun Park. Despite her inability to speak English, Park finished tied for third overall thanks to King and his ability to overcome their language barrier.
The BNI Advancement team hit the road in June to attend an alumni gathering in Indianapolis. More than 30 Indy alums enjoyed a beautiful evening at the home of Mark ’74 and Nancy Gargula. Guests had the opportunity to reconnect with each other as well as hear Noll president Paul Mullaney give an update on all good things happening at BNI. Many thanks to the Gargulas as well as Mark ’77 and Jennifer Kugar, and Mike ’79 and Rhonda Malatestinic for hosting this lovely gathering. We hope to visit alums in several other cities in the coming year. Look for us in a city near you!
Alumna in the classroom
Nancy Hauter ’82 spoke to our AP environmental students about her role as deputy director of the Regional OSHA offices in Chicago. Nancy visited the class taught by her sister Rosalie Schmidt ’70 and showed an interactive PowerPoint presentation about workplace hazards. She discussed what types of jobs people under 18 can NOT do and gave students information about the OSHA Website.
We Want Your News!
Please take a few minutes and let everyone in the Bishop Noll family know how you are doing. Our alumni enjoy hearing news about their classmates, their accomplishments and important events in their lives. Send us pictures of weddings, children and grandchildren. E-mail information to jflorek@ bishopnoll.org or mail to: Bishop Noll Institute Advancement Office 1519 Hoffman Street Hammond, IN 46327 219-932-9058 ext. 1005 219-932-4733 (fax)
Alums journey to China
“Being in China really helped with my listening comprehension, which made life at the office much easier.... If it wasn’t for my Chinese language background that I received at Noll, I never would have pursued Chinese as a second major at Butler, and I wouldn’t be in this position at all.” Thomas Abbott, a 2013 Noll Bishop Noll class of 2014 classmates Sienna Gonzalez and Daniel King had internships in China this summer. The pair had a mini Noll reunion in grad who interned in China last Shanghai, China. year, encourages others to travel abroad. “The things that I was able to witness and learn while in China will remain with me for my entire life. It was truly a life-changing opportunity and I am extremely glad and grateful that I was able to partake in this summer trip. Going abroad is a great chance to be on your own, which forces you to grow and Philip R. Ziller ’12 poses with his professor at Minzu University in Beijing, China. adapt in many different ways.” He said his studies at Noll and Valparaiso University paved the Taking Chinese classes at Bishop Noll way. Institute started four alums on an “The solid foundation that I international journey that eventually took Thomas Abbott ’13 visited the Great Wall of China while interning in China was able to build while in high last summer. them to China. school served as a launch pad for Two members of the Noll class of 2014 my Chinese studies in college, interning in China this summer said their introduction to Chinese putting me ahead of my classmates especially in my speaking while in high school and inspiration from their Noll Chinese and writing skills,” he said. “My Chinese skills that I acquired at teacher, Julie Niu, helped make these opportunities possible. Bishop Noll were able to place me in an upper level Chinese class Sienna Gonzalez, from East Chicago, is studying biology (preat Valpo my freshmen year, which really pushed me and greatly veterinarian) and Mandarin Chinese. For her internship at the improved my Chinese.” Bifengxia Panda Breeding Research Center in the Ya’an Provence Abbott, a Whiting native and double major in electrical of Sichuan, China, she managed the nutrition and cleanliness of engineering and Chinese and Japanese studies, interned at Yu Yang panda bears and recorded their behavior. King Technologies in Hangzhou, China. “I am currently studying to become an international veterinarian Studying Chinese at Noll also made a difference for Philip and knowing Chinese helped me the entire internship. My “Rocky” Ziller, a Hammond native and ’12 Noll grad, who supervisors spoke Chinese and the panda bears only understood recently graduated from Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis., Chinese so I was able to use my Chinese knowledge in a with a triple major in Chinese language and literature, linguistics professional work environment.” and East Asian studies. Gonzalez began speaking Chinese at age 12 in the Bishop Noll Ziller lived and studied at Minzu University in China for three Prep Academy, the former Bishop Noll middle school. months through the Associated Colleges in China (ACC) program. “The Chinese program at Bishop Noll has prepared me for my “A large majority of that time was in Beijing, China in which I internship,” she said. “My instructor, Mrs. Niu, is one of the most learned the Beijing accent,” he said. “It is a very rigorous program inspirational teachers I have ever had as a student.” that typically has about a 30 percent dropout rate because of the Following her internship, Gonzalez began to study year four intensity of the program and work load. To put it in perspective, Chinese at Minzu University in Beijing, China. the amount of work we did in a week there was equal to a full Daniel King, of Gary, attends Butler University where he has a semester of learning Chinese at Lawrence, which is 10 weeks... double major in international business and Chinese language and While I was there I also did a case study on the attitudinal usages culture. of Chinese adverbs, which is something non-native speakers have This summer, he worked as a marketing and development a lot of trouble with.” intern for Connoisseur Group/ACC, a Luxury Brand Company in That project led to writing a book on Chinese pedagogical Shanghai, China. grammar with his Lawrence advisor professor. Ziller’s professor is “This experience has been amazing,” he said. “Being able to in the process of trying to have the book published. intern in China has solidified my dreams of someday living and He said he felt Noll’s program prepared him well for the working here. While the Chinese business environment is very beginning parts of studying Chinese in college. different, I have been preparing for it since my days at Noll.” “Through my experience and understanding of language as a He enjoyed using his Chinese communication skills in a new whole, by also being a linguistics major, having a native speaker way. of Chinese as a teacher is amazing.”
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During the summer, demolition began on Bishop Noll’s “A” Wing, which was constructed in 1946 and had not been used in 13 years. This project will prepare the site for future facility upgrades and propel Noll into the next 100 years of Catholic education.