IN THIS ISSUE
Alumni return to classroom for Career Day
INSPIRING a New Generation of Warriors
OUR MISSION
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.
OUR VISION
Bishop Noll Institute is a welcoming Catholic family committed to creating a transformative learning environment, which fosters innovative, critical, and creative disciples who live their faith through action.
2024–25
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION
Paul Mullaney ’77, President
Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, Principal
Victoria Hibbler, Assistant Principal of Student Culture
Andrew Wielgus, Assistant Principal of Academic Affairs
Renee Nagdeman, Director of Finance
Ryan Julian, Director of Advancement
Ana Acosta, Director of Recruitment
Vanita Golston, School Choice and Aide Specialist
Cynthia Wilson, Director of Athletics
Marisa Renwald, Technology Instructional Coach
Michael Roggenkamp, Director of Student Services
BOARD OF LIMITED JURISDICTION
Dr. Colleen Brewer, Superintendent of Schools
Most Reverend Robert J. McClory, Bishop
Eddie Limon ’85, Chairman
Dan Markovich ’98, Vice Chairman
Dr. Jeffrey Kristoff ’63, Secretary
Rev. Jeffrey Burton
Dr. Jasmine Saavedra ’06
David Skibinski ’76
Wallene Swentko ’63
Lori Prahovich Whelan ’85
FOUNDATION MEMBERS
Courtney Hilbrich Markovich ’95, President
Marlene Vega Coulis ’79, Vice President
Rev. Dominic Bertino, Treasurer
Mary Ellen O’Neill
Terry Quinn
Kenneth Wilk ’66
On the Cover
Justyna Syska ’07, a producer at ABC 7
Chicago, spoke to students during Alumni Career Day in January. She is pictured with junior Jaiden Hall and senior Evan Jimenez. (Photo by Marisa Renwald)
Photography
Thank you to Dave Blocher ’82 for sharing his images for this issue.
Help Us Go Green
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
a letter from the principal
Greetings BNI Alumni and Supporters,
As I write this letter, we just wrapped up Catholic Schools Week 2025. My favorite part of the week is our community’s chance to celebrate the gift of attending a school that makes Christ our focal point. As I look back on my time as a Bishop Noll student, I realize how blessed I was to be part of such a welcoming and supportive community. The memories I made at school events and in the classroom are invaluable, and I carry them with me. I would love to continue to support the growth and success of the institution that played such a vital role in my life.
The highlight of Catholic Schools Week is the All-School Mass. You may remember this special day when the Bishop Noll fieldhouse would be packed with high schoolers, little kids, priests and the Bishop. This event reminds me of the importance of our faith and community. This also emphasizes the crucial role of formation, which we, as a Catholic school, must value, prioritize and balance alongside all other essential school needs.
The values instilled in me during my years at Bishop Noll—faith, service, and academic excellence—have shaped not only my personal life but also my professional journey. I am thankful for the teachers who challenged me and the friendships I formed with my peers, many of which continue to this day. I also appreciate the strong foundation in Catholic values that has been pivotal in my continued faith walk.
Noll Network: Alumni Career Day was a new event that took place this year during Catholic Schools Week. Many BNI alumni modeled these Catholic values to students, while helping them in their career path exploration.
The room of alumni was filled with graduates from the classes of the 1970s through 2020s, with talented professionals in politics, business, education, medicine and more! These alumni modeled faith, service, and how they put their academic excellence to work.
As Catholic Schools Week ended, I reflected on the special community of faith we have here at Bishop Noll.
As an alumna and principal of Bishop Noll, this community of faith continues to prosper. When people ask me what makes Bishop Noll so special, I always refer to our mission, our focus on forming young disciples, and I truly believe that is what makes BNI so special. No matter what profession we as BNI alumni choose to follow, it is our values of faith and service, paired with our academic foundation, that have made us all successful.
It is my hope that every week can feel like Catholic Schools Week. Thank you to our alumni who returned to BNI this year, and may we all continue to live as Warriors in Mind, Body and Soul.
Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01 Principal
a message from our president CAREER DAY
Dear fellow Warriors,
It’s been three-and-a-half years since we celebrated, in style, 100 years of Catholic Central High School and Bishop Noll Institute. That centennial celebration of our esteemed school, which we titled “Forever Noll,” remains a topic frequently broached when I meet with our various stakeholders.
And the formal recording of our rich history, in the form of the centennial documentary video and the 308-page coffee table history book—both carrying the “Forever Noll” title—continues to impress first-time viewers and readers (and repeat viewers and readers).
Actually, there is so much information, and so many interesting tales and anecdotes, in the history book alone that it likely will take years for some to get through the entirety of the book. We continue to sell both as alumni and other benefactors request those historic keepsakes.
What has not been lost on me is the reality that—as fascinating as the recorded historic stories are—the history we’re creating today at Bishop Noll is just as impactful to the legacy of the Region’s premier Catholic high school. In our 104th school year, our team at BNI not only continues to remain true to our mission (which you can read on the inside cover of this edition), but is rocking it in so many ways. Consider:
■ Noll’s current enrollment of 683 is not only a 24-year high, but it is up 56% from five years ago. And it will be higher in 2025–26.
■ We have grown our faculty with high quality teachers to correspond to our enrollment growth, in an attempt to best serve our students without overcrowding classrooms.
■ The state-of-the-art STREAM Lab, which opened in 2020, continues to draw rave reviews as the home base of Noll’s still-growing STEM program.
■ Our outdoor stadium renovation has been a big hit, and for the first time in 104 years, our school was scheduled April 3 to host an outdoor meet on an eight-lane regulation track.
And there’s so much more I could go into if I had the room. But suffice it to say, none of these things would be possible without the continued and growing support of our alumni and other benefactors.
We see it in our Annual Warrior Fund, which is on track to hit our goal of $340,000 for the school year, which would be an all-time high. We see it in the response to our outdoor athletic facilities renovations, with the majority of $8 million for the first two phases already funded. We see it in the establishment of new scholarships, five of which have been newly created the past two years. And we see it in more than just donations of treasure. Our Warrior alumni are giving in many ways, offering their time and talent as well. In fact, you can read on the next page how four dozen alumni converged on Noll during Catholic Schools Week to talk about their careers, experiences and insights with our student body. We hope to grow “Noll Network: Alumni Career Day” into a new tradition. Some of our alumni are guest speakers throughout the year. Some hire our students for part-time work or internships. Some serve on committees for our events. Some call our students to action, incentivizing them to help stock food pantries. There are so many ways to “donate.”
So as we continue to move forward, I humbly ask that you prayerfully consider ways that you can best help Bishop Noll write the next chapters of our rich history. If you’re not sure the best way to do that, contact us and we’ll suggest some opportunities. We are Forever Noll!
Paul B. Mullaney ’77 President
We change the world by inspiring the lives of those we meet and providing them with opportunities to grow!
—Andrew Sosnowski ’79
BNI Alumni Inspire Next Generation at
Bishop Noll welcomed back a distinguished group of alumni for a new event this January. Noll Network: Alumni Career Day offered students a unique opportunity to connect with career professionals who once walked the same hallways.
Andrew Sosnowski ’79, a trial lawyer with 35 years of experience, returned to where his legal journey began.
“I attribute many of my successes to my education at BNI,” Sosnowski said, emphasizing the school’s early commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. “BNI shaped my mind, body, and soul, and it was an honor to give back.”
Behind the Scenes
Behind this year’s Career Day was the dedicated work of Bishop Noll’s new alumni network coordinator, Nico Gonzalez ’17. Nico played a key role in coordinating the event and connecting with alumni who wanted to attend.
Looking ahead, Nico is eager to assist alumni who wish to reconnect with their alma mater. Whether you’re looking to organize a reunion, attend an upcoming alumni event, or simply stay updated on the latest news from Noll, Nico is your point of contact.
He can provide resources, facilitate communication, and help you forge lasting connections with the BNI family.
“It was inspiring to see so many members of the BNI family come together,” Nico said. “This event was a testament to the strong bonds that Bishop Noll fosters, and I’m thrilled to be a part of strengthening those connections.” Reach out to Nico at ngonzalez@bishopnoll.org.
Leslie Wolfe ’02, an assurance services director at accounting company BDO, echoed this sentiment.
“It was such an honor to participate in career day at my high school alma mater.” She enjoyed connecting with students and sharing her career path from BNI to BDO.
Data analyst Lesley Vizcarra ’18 said, “Visiting my alma mater…was an experience that truly came full circle for me.” She recalled the impact of hearing from professionals who shared similar backgrounds during her own high school years.
“Seeing someone I could relate to made the possibilities for my future feel real.” Her goal was to provide that same inspiration to current students. “Looking into that classroom, I saw myself in every single student—the curiosity, the ambition, and the anxiety of not knowing what the future holds.” Vizcarra expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back and her desire to continue these important conversations with the next generation.
For Jennifer Hartmann ’98, now an associate principal in Lansing, Ill., the day was particularly poignant. “Honored to present at my alma mater’s career day,” she said. “Definitely the first time setting foot inside since graduation day. It was a day full of memories, hope, collaboration, and emotion. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior.”
Makala Blakely ’18, who attends Indiana University School of Medicine, said, “I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to share my experiences with the students at BNI. Watching students sit in the same seats, walk the same halls, and experience the environment that nurtured me was extremely rewarding. My alma mater is doing big things!”
Ariana Diaz ’12, a social media strategist, said she had the honor of returning to the classrooms that once frustrated her and the hallways that gave her so many laughs.
“I shared my journey with the juniors and seniors, reflecting on the highs, lows and everything in between,” she said.
Career Day served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of a BNI education and the importance of alumni mentorship in shaping the futures of current students. To get involved, email advancement@bishopnoll.org.
giving back
Honoring Our Founders
Thank you to the Warrior community members who supported students with a gift in honor of Founders Day—Sept. 16. The Annual Warrior Fund helps keep the cost of tuition affordable for BNI’s hard-working families. It helps support every aspect of BNI life. Give your gift in honor of our founders today at bishopnoll.org. For information on other ways to give a gift, contact Ryan Julian, director of advancement, at RJulian@bishopnollorg; (219) 932-9058, ext. 1002.
Princess Power
BNI’s second Princess Brunch, run by alumni Dee Dee Ryder Buck ’72 and George Buck ’72, created magical memories for nearly 100 children. The event featured brunch, princess interactions, Santa visits, games, crafts and makeovers. Thanks to sponsors, dreams came true and the brunch raised funds to directly impact Bishop Noll’s faculty. Want to help create future magic? Contact advancement@bishopnoll.org to volunteer.
Special concert for Warrior community makes for unforgettable night
Thank you to everyone who attended BNI’s special concert event featuring an intimate acoustic guitar set by internationally acclaimed artist and songwriter Justin Furstenfeld of Blue October. A special thank you to the hosts for the evening, Eddie and Lisa (Hubbard) Limon, BNI Class of 1985, for their generosity and vision in making this celebration possible. Thank you also to everyone who honored their request to consider making a donation to Bishop Noll in lieu of an admission cost. These contributions directly support the future of the BNI community.
Friends from the classes of 1952 and 1954 attended the donor reception and a concert for BNI. From left, they are Patti (Rogan) ’54 and Fred Beckman ’52, Mary Kay Klassen ’52 and Katy (Hohenegger) Ready ’52. (Photo by Marlene A. Zloza photo/Northwest Indiana Catholic)
homecoming
On September 27, the energy was electric at the Homecoming pep rally held at the newly opened Warrior Athletic Stadium. Seniors started the celebration, charging onto the field to kick things off. The band performed the fight song as freshmen and seniors belted out the lyrics in a friendly competition. The fun continued with games from field goal kick-offs and red light, green light, to the classic tug-of-war. Students from every grade level participated, with freshmen taking on sophomores, juniors battling seniors, and the highlight of the event: seniors vs. the teachers. Save the date for Tailgate
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the annual Homecoming Tailgate, which returned to BNI this year! It was great to see the Warrior family come out for a night of fun and great memories.
Marking the opening of BNI’s new athletic field, Warriors gathered to celebrate in a big way, kicking off the festivities by watching the players compete on the new turf and enjoying the game from the all-new grandstand. The excitement continued after the game in the BNI fieldhouse, where attendees fueled up with food and drinks. Attendees also enjoyed games of chance and friendly competition like bean bags and inflatable basketball hoops while reconnecting with fellow alumni and enjoying the DJ entertainment. A new addition this year was the inclusion of game entry with each Tailgate ticket if purchased by the early bird deadline. Be sure to follow “Bishop Noll Institute” on social media so you don’t miss out on future events!
Sept. 19, 2025
Sponsorships are available. Contact Juli Sandoval at jsandoval@bishopnoll.org for more information.
Freshmen pack the stands for their first pep rally. After juniors and seniors voted for Homecoming court and seniors voted for King and Queen, results were announced at halftime of the football game. Jonathan Jerry and Sophia Nowacki received their crowns and celebrated.
In addition to taking place on the new field, this Homecoming game was memorable because BNI defeated Lake Station High School. (Photo by Dave Blocher ’82)
The annual dance was a masquerade ball to remember! Pictured are freshmen Alejandra Martinez and Olivia Fineran.
BNI STREAM Lab celebrates milestone
Five years ago, Bishop Noll unveiled a groundbreaking addition to its campus: the BNI STREAM Lab. This state-of-theart facility, a cornerstone of the school’s visionary plan to become a regional leader in STEM education, has since become a hub of innovation, collaboration, and hands-on learning, transforming the way students engage with STREAM (science, technology, religion, engineering, art and mathematics.)
The lab’s inception was part of a larger initiative to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the 21st century. From robotics and coding to 3D printing and environmental science, the STREAM Lab provides an environment where students can create and thrive.
“The STREAM Lab has been instrumental in achieving our goal of providing a truly exceptional STEM education,” said principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01. “We envisioned a space where students could not only learn about STEM fields but also experience them firsthand. The lab has exceeded our expectations, inspiring students to pursue careers in these vital areas.”
Teacher Mary Albrecht, part of the team that helped with the lab’s design and development, said, “Seeing the STREAM Lab in action, filled with students engaged in exciting projects, is amazing. It’s rewarding to know that this space is inspiring the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. We poured our hearts into creating a space that would ignite curiosity and empower students to explore their passions. To see it achieving those goals and more is beyond anything I could have imagined.”
Teacher receives Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award
Congratulations to BNI business teacher and community leader Brian Pillar, who received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in January. Nominated by Noll’s Business Honor Society, Pillar was recognized for his lifelong commitment to volunteer service and lauded for his dedication to students.
“Mr. Pillar is a remarkable teacher whose dedication has transformed countless lives,” the nomination stated. A BNI teacher since 1998 (with a break in between), Pillar currently chairs the business department.
Principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick ’01, who was once a student of Pillar, called him a “visionary.”
Beyond BNI, Pillar served as Indiana State President for the Elks in 2023-24, increasing charitable contributions to $5.58 million. He and his wife, Kathy, also raised more than $16,000 for Camp Millhouse, enabling 27 individuals with developmental disabilities to attend. A third-generation Elk, Pillar has held numerous leadership positions within the organization and currently serves the Highland (Ind.) Elks.
“I believe that we are put on this earth to serve others,” Pillar said. “To be honored for doing something that we should all be doing is very humbling.”
READ THE FULL STORY AT BISHOPNOLL.ORG
Class of 2025: Top Grads
Valedictorian Anna De La Torre manages to balance her faith, extracurriculars and academics with the support of friends and teachers.
“(BNI) was a very transformative experience,” said De La Torre, an alumna of St. John the Baptist School.
“I have met many friends and teachers who I feel changed the trajectory of my life in ways I cannot even fathom. They all encouraged me and helped me grow and mature as a person. I would not be the person I am today without them.”
De La Torre dedicated time to extracurriculars including marching band, National Honor Society and Speech. She also served as an altar server, leaning on her faith.
“Whenever things get stressful, I always think that it’s going to be OK in the end no matter what because I know God would never let me fall.”
Salutatorian Zekiel Zukley looks back on his high school experience with a focus on faith, adaptability and service, in addition to academic achievement. Zukley most enjoyed applying what he learned.
“Learning Spanish in class, and using it to understand what other people say outside of it, and having the ability to use what I learn to get to where I want is fulfilling to me. It feels like an investment with a return,” said Zukley, an Our Lady of Grace School alum.
A soccer, football and volleyball player, athletics played a significant role in Zukley’s high school career and, though honored by the salutatorian title, Zukley said his proudest high school accomplishment was making Regionals in soccer and volleyball with his brothers.
READ THE FULL STORY AT BISHOPNOLL.ORG
In addition to De La Torre and Zukley, these Graduates with Distinction all earned a 4.0 or above GPA.
They are Joshua Fierros, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Janice Flores, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Gianna Gaal, of Schererville, St. John the Baptist; Arianna Gonzalez, of Hegewisch, St. Casimir; Francisco Hermosillo, of Hammond, HAST; Evelyn Hernandez, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Dusan Knezevic, of Chicago, St. John the Baptist; Alexandra Magallanes, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Augie Matushek, of Robertsdale, St. John the Baptist; Sergio Meza, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Samantha Ortiz, of Merrillville,
St. Mary’s Griffith (not pictured); Anais Reyna, of Schererville, St. Mary’s Griffith; Karyme Rosas, of Hammond, Grimmer Middle School; Jasmine Sarkanovich, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; April Sepulveda, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Julian Villagomez, of Hammond, St. John Bosco; Megan Virosztko, of Chicago, St. Casimir; Angel Wilson, of East Chicago, St. Stanislaus; Hailey Wojtaszek, of Hammond, St. Casimir; Maisie Wragg, of Lansing, homeschool; and Daniella Zvonar, of Whiting, St. John the Baptist.
Fired Up
Congratulations to BNI art teacher Jennifer Gwiazda, who has been selected for the prestigious 2025 Lilly Endowment Teacher Creativity Fellowship Program. This program provides grants to educators to support personal and professional renewal projects. Gwiazda will use her fellowship to pursue a deeply personal project that combines her passion for art and travel. Her project will allow her to purchase a kiln for her home and visit Italy to further hone her skills. There she will spend a week at a ceramics retreat in Sicily and another week in Rome, immersing herself in architecture, art, and culture by visiting iconic sites like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum and more.
“This journey is not just about renewal but a celebration of perseverance," she said. “Being chosen for this fellowship is such an affirming moment, and I’m beyond grateful to see this dream come to life. I hope my experiences will inspire my students not only to deepen their understanding of ceramics and art but also to realize that if they are passionate about something, it’s worth dedicating themselves to achieve it, no matter how big or ambitious their dreams may be.”
READ THE FULL STORY AT BISHOPNOLL.ORG Stream Team
Kudos to Mary Albrecht on being named a Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce Teacher of the Year! Thank you for your commitment to BNI and our STREAM Program!
Senior Sergio Meza Named Lilly Scholar
Congratulations to senior Sergio Meza who received the prestigious Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship, which covers four years of full tuition, fees, and a book stipend at any Indiana public or private college.
“I am deeply thankful for my family, friends and teachers,” he said. “This award is not just mine; it is a reflection of the support I’ve received from everyone who has helped me along my journey.”
Meza, one of six Lake County recipients, is BNI’s 14th Lilly Scholar since 1998. A varsity captain in cross country, track, and tennis, and a four-year speech team member, Meza plans to study public policy at Indiana University or Notre Dame. He expressed gratitude for his support system and excitement for the opportunities the scholarship provides, emphasizing his commitment to serving the East Chicago community. BNI
Principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick praised Meza’s character and leadership, while academic advisor Kevin Smith highlighted his dedication to community involvement and aspiration to become an environmental lawyer.
“One of the big things is that public schools, I think, do not stress this region as a melting pot. Bishop Noll has so many kids from so many cultures— Polish, Hispanic, African American among others—and creates a unique sense of community, with chances to understand life and how it varies.”
—Sergio Meza
Meet the Warrior
For senior Maximus Kubon, the world is a stage. Finding his place in Noll’s theater scene, he is set to play Professor Bhaer in the upcoming musical production of “Little Women.”
“I’ve always been interested in acting,” he said. “When I was placed in theater class senior year, it felt like a gateway opened. It’s my last year, and I wanted to seize the opportunity.”
Behind the scenes, he’s a vital part of Towle Theater’s technical team, operating the lighting and sound boards for the Hammond theater.
“It’s fascinating to see how everything comes together,” he said. “It’s a different kind of energy compared to being on stage, but just as rewarding.”
Looking ahead, he is open to anything, he said.
“Whether it’s performing, technical work, or both, I want to continue being involved.” He plans to study political science and pre-law in college with hopes to eventually pursue a career in law. Bishop Noll will stage “Little Women” April 10–13. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or online.
Getting To Know
English teacher Mariann Laird has been a part of the English department for 10 years, currently teaching senior composition and literature. She wanted to work at BNI because she liked the location and wanted to work at a Catholic school.
“I like the kids at BNI. They are collegebound scholars who know where they want to go and what they want to do. My coworkers are great. Lorenza Pastrick, our principal, has great leadership that sets a good tone for BNI,” Laird said. Laird is also the adviser for the National Honor Society and started the Creative Writing Club last year. —Reporting by yearbook staffer Abigail Buksa
Sophomore Darius Anthony works on a project in the STREAM Lab.
Meet Anna De La Torre and Zekiel Zukley, the valedictorian and salutatorian.
sports
Welcome back, 2004 Baseball State Champs
This year’s Alumni Watch Party served as a homecoming, honoring the 2004 state championship baseball team of Coach Dave Griffin. Thank you to the original players, coaches and their families who were in attendance.
Alumni Watch Party a slam dunk
A crowd of BNI alumni and fans packed the fieldhouse Jan. 4 for the annual Alumni Watch Party. Despite a hard-fought battle that ended in a 54–51 overtime loss to Andrean, everyone had a great time reuniting. The festivities included balcony seating, food and drinks, and access to a private alumni space with great views. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the Warriors! Look for this event to return in winter 2026.
Warriors have great volleyball run
After an impressive season, including a regional championship, the Lady Warriors had a heartbreaking loss in November at the Plymouth Semistate.
The regional championship victory in October against Illiana Christian showcased the team’s unwavering spirit. Senior setter Raniyah Preston delivered a great performance, making key digs and passes that fueled the Warriors’ momentum. Senior outside hitter Zariah Winton also played a pivotal role in the regional championship, delivering key plays at the beginning and end of each set. The regional title marked a significant milestone for the program, and the team celebrated its achievement. The Warriors fought hard at semistate, but ultimately couldn’t overcome a strong Angola team. Senior defender Addison Clark said the team never gave up and fought hard.
Hockey players have annual reunion
On Dec. 21, Bishop Noll Hockey hosted its annual Alumni Night. Following the JV and varsity games, there was a family skate and “not so young” alumni and “young” alumni matches. Thanks to everyone for coming out to support the Warriors!
Hard work on the course leads to full rides for 3 seniors
Three Lady Warriors have aced their futures, earning the prestigious Chick Evans Scholarship. Hailey Wojtaszek, Emma Boyer and Megan Virosztko, all BNI golfers and Briar Ridge Country Club caddies, will receive full tuition and housing scholarships, recognizing their dedication, academics and character.
The scholarship “means the world” to Wojtaszek, lifting the financial burden and changing her outlook on her worth and confidence.
“My involvement in golf...ultimately brought me to the Evans Scholarship and formed so many bonds,” she said. “I’m excited to call myself an Evans Scholar and live with fellow scholars.”
Evans Scholars live and work together in communities at 24 universities, developing leadership and communication skills. The program boasts a 95 percent graduation rate.
Hailey Wojtaszek
Wojtaszek plans to study anthropology and hopes to work in a museum and travel across the globe.
She credits Bishop Noll and principal Lorenza Jara Pastrick, saying that she otherwise would have never known about this amazing opportunity.
She also thanked theology teacher Johan Castandea, who was her No. 1 cheerleader and wrote her letter of recommendation.
Emma Boyer
For Boyer, the scholarship “relieves the financial burden of college and means that I will be debt free.”
Inspired by a previous BNI Evans Scholar, she began caddying, which “impacted my life by allowing me to be more patient and disciplined.”
She said caddying was a great opportunity and that caddies can make good money.
Powderpuff game returns to Homecoming festivities
For the first time in recent history, BNI had a powderpuff girls’ flag football game. The games were held after school during Homecoming week on the new athletic field.
“I have actually never thrown a football until that day before the game. I had a lot of fun playing with the team. Everyone’s jokes and positivity were fun to be around, and I would love to do something like that again,” said senior Daniella Zvonar.
BNI bowlers take it to next level
The BNI Warrior bowling season saw several impressive achievements. On the varsity level, Jayden Basulto bowled a high conference game of 222 in week one, while Aniyah Basulto achieved a high conference series of 416 in week five and secured an All Conference Award/position (8th) with a 161 season average. Aniyah also advanced to the Olympia Lanes Michigan City
Boyer is “excited to be living in a house with all of the Evans Scholars” and aspires to one day go to the FBI and pursue a criminal justice degree. She said she learned discipline, respect and the value of hard work at Bishop Noll and thanked golf coach Trent Haraminac and BNI teachers Bianca Bernal, John Gleason, Hannah Lareau, Dena Neville and Elizabeth Cuadrado for their support.
Megan Virosztko
Virosztko said the scholarship relieves stress about paying for college and shows that all her hard work was successful. She started caddying after receiving an email from Pastrick and advises others “to start early…it was a lot of work to get all 100 loops in two years, but it can still happen.” She is most looking forward to “living in the Evans house and getting to meet all the people who have also caddied.”
Congratulations to graduating Warrior athletes who have already signed to play in college
Gavin Knight, St. Francis of Joliet, football
Raniyah Preston, Indiana University Northwest, volleyball
Madelynn Queen, Bethel University, softball
Anais Reyna, Hanover College, softball
Zariah Winton, North Carolina A&T, volleyball
Daniella Zvonar, St. Mary-of-the-Woods College, volleyball
Regional Tournament after placing eighth in the Greater Lake County Sectionals with a 488 series. Rey Servin bowled a high conference game and series of 448 in week 11.
campus ministry
Alumna and New Teacher
Serve Diocesan High Schools
Through ECHO Program
BNI has a special connection to the University of Notre Dame’s ECHO Graduate Service Program this year, with alumna Jacqueline Milkowski ’20 and new BNI theology teacher Dena Neville both serving in Diocese of Gary high schools through the program. ECHO allows college graduates to earn a Master of Arts in Theology while serving in Catholic parishes or schools. Milkowski is teaching at Marquette High School in Michigan City, while Neville has joined the faculty at Bishop Noll. The two are also roommates, supporting each other in their shared ministry.
For Milkowski, a Hammond native, returning to the diocese feels like coming home. She recently earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a minor in theology from Holy Cross College. She credits a retreat during her
time at BNI as pivotal in discerning her calling. “I did a lot of discerning, praying and asking God what I was being called to do,” Milkowski said. This led her to pursue education.
Neville, a native of Columbia Station, Ohio, brings her own passion for Catholic education to Noll. She earned a bachelor of science in Adolescent to Young Adult Education Integrated Language Arts from the University of Dayton. This semester, she is teaching a vocations course to BNI
seniors, transitioning to a Social Justice course in the spring. Neville’s decision to join ECHO stemmed from her desire to combine her love of teaching with her commitment to serving the Catholic Church. She hopes to create a positive learning environment where students feel drawn to Christ and is particularly interested in bringing creativity to the classroom.
BNI History
The Legacy Lives On
In January, Bishop Noll Institute celebrated the man after whom the school is named.
The Fire Of 1962
On January 10, 1962, a record-breaking cold snap closed schools in the Region, including Bishop Noll. While students were safe at home, a devastating fire broke out in the school’s 37-year-old gym, destroying athletic and band equipment and classroom facilities. It caused an estimated $500,000 in damages.
Despite the frigid temperatures, firefighters battled the blaze and were able to save basketball and football uniforms as well as rescuing wrestling mats and barbells.
While fighting the blaze, the two battalions of firemen were served coffee made by Sister Francis Catherine and soup and sandwiches by Sister Marie Imelda in the biology room.
Remarkably, classes resumed just four days later, with students and faculty adapting to the loss of the gym. The 200 students who usually were in the gym had to be absorbed into the main building. The noticeable increase in hall traffic proved that the burnt building had shouldered a heavy load of classes. Algebra II, biology, religion, choral, gym, English, study periods and band were all taught in the gym.
Catholic
Schools Week Mass
BNI hosted five elementary schools for Mass Jan. 29, celebrated by the Most Rev. Robert McClory, bishop of the Diocese
of Gary. He was joined by BNI Chaplain the Very Rev. Jeff Burton, Deacon Martin Brown ’79 and Deacon Michael Halas ’83. Schools included Our Lady of Grace in Highland, St. Casimir in Hammond,
St. John the Baptist Grade School in Robertsdale, St. John Bosco in Hammond and St. Stanislaus in East Chicago.
On January 25, 1875, John Francis Noll was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He became a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, championing many causes, not the least of which was Catholic education. Bishop Noll, who served as bishop of the Diocese of Fort Wayne, which previously stretched from the Illinois state line to the Ohio line, played an important role in the early growth and success of our school in Hammond (originally known as Catholic Central High School). In recognition of his contributions, the school was renamed in his honor in 1946.
The Warrior community celebrated Bishop Noll’s 150th birthday on Friday, Jan. 24, and all students and staff were treated to birthday cake.
Read more stories like this in “Forever Noll: The First 100 Years of Bishop Noll Institute” produced with the assistance of presenting sponsor Notre Dame Federal Credit Union. 13
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Roommates Dena Neville, left, and Jacqueline Milkowski ’20 are working as theology teachers in Diocese of Gary high schools through a special program.
Photo courtesy of The TIMES
noll notes
1956
Eugene Spajewski has served as a theology teacher and campus minister at Guerin College Prep High School in River Grove, Ill., since 2002. He has a master’s degree in pastoral studies from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
1972
George Fitzpatrick spoke about his legal career to BNI students at Career Day in January. Fitzpatrick is a founding partner of Swanson, Martin & Bell (SMB), LLP, a 100-lawyer nationally-recognized trial and litigation firm based in Chicago.
1978
Ted Marthakis, a high school math teacher at Evart High School, has received the Excellence in Education award from the Michigan Lottery. Marthakis, who previously worked as an electrical engineer, was recognized for creating a welcoming and engaging classroom environment. He has been teaching for 13 years, eight of which have been at Evart High School. The Michigan Lottery established the Excellence in Education Awards in 2014 to honor outstanding public school educators nationwide. In a news release about the award, Marthakis cited his desire to inspire students as a key reason for transitioning to teaching.
1988
Tim Drozd recently joined ENTRUST Solutions Group as chief financial officer to oversee its financial and accounting practices, including financial planning and analysis, budgeting, investments, audit coordination and taxes.
Headquartered in Warrenville, Ill., ENTRUST provides engineering and infrastructure solutions for its clients and communities it serves.
his wife, Kendra, live in Bluffton, SC, with their daughters Katherine, Elizabeth, Caroline and Christina.
1989
David Bercik has been named vice president of sales at SMC Corporation of America, based in Noblesville, Ind. SMC is a global leader in manufacturing pneumatic technology for industrial automation. David, who has more than 30 years of senior leadership experience in the automotive, healthcare and electric vehicle infrastructure sectors, previously resided in Brentwood, Tenn., with his wife, Kelli, and their three children. They look forward to being closer to friends and family in NW Indiana.
1996
Damien Harmon was recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the “25 Most Powerful Rising Executives in the Fortune 500.” Harmon, who was Bishop Noll’s 2023 commencement speaker, is senior executive vice president of customer, channel experiences and enterprise services for Best Buy Co. Inc. In that role, he oversees Best Buy’s retail stores and
operations, in-home services and sales, virtual experiences, customer care and the company’s customer strategy. He also leads Geek Squad, Best Buy’s North American tech-support organization, and he previously played a key role in Best Buy’s international expansion into Turkey and China.
1999
Father Leonard Gajardo now serves as the pastor of St. Joseph’s parish and St. Maria Goretti parish, both in Dyer.
Chris Trojnar attended BNI’s Career Day to talk to current Warriors about his career as a nuclear engineer for the U.S. Navy. He recently started a new role as a data center facilities technician— electrical at Google in Kansas City, Mo.
2010
Angel Needham has taken on a consultant role with Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. Additionally, her twin sons—Grayson and Victor—are thriving in their kindergarten magnet world language program.
2012
Jorge Gomez is a middle school ELA teacher, athletic director and basketball coach at St. Casimir School in Hammond. An alum of both St. Casimir and Bishop Noll, he returned to his roots to teach at Cas. “Pictured with me are some of my basketball boys and eighthgrade homeroom students (future Warriors). I’d like to include that through faith and trust in God, all things are possible. Follow your heart and let everything else fall into place, values I learned at both St. Casimir and Bishop Noll.”
Brooke Ellis McNicholas, an Army Civil Affairs Team Chief, spoke to BNI students during Career Day. After high school, she received a bachelor's degree in communication from Purdue University and a master's degree in exercise science and nutrition from Liberty University. She currently works as a strength and conditioning coach in North Carolina.
Eileen O’Neill and Chase McDermott wed Sept. 7, 2024 in Valparaiso. Their wedding party included several BNI classmates: Stephanie Rarick, Tate Hickey, Shannon Whelan, Alex Stahura, Jordan Kusiak Galgan, Lisette Herrera, Jorge Gomez and Josh Galgan, all class of 2012; John Mitchell and Matt Sandoval,
class of 2013; and Lindsey McDermott Pirosko and Brendan O’Neill, class of 2010.
2013
Sergio Valdes is an academic advising specialist at the University of North Carolina’s Hussman School of Journalism and Media in Chapel Hill.
2017
John Springer was recently promoted to Petty Officer First Class (E6) in the U.S. Navy. He has spent the last few years stationed in Naples, Italy, where he also met and married his now wife. As of February 2025, he is currently on deployment near Europe.
Cristen Lee Dillow recently moved to Denver, Colorado, with her husband and daughter to further her career in optometry. She is pursuing her doctoral degree to become a certified optometrist. She will also be welcoming her second child into the world this year.
2019
David Mendoza is a project engineer at MSI Express. He graduated from Swarthmore College in 2023 with a bachelor’s in applied mathematics and bachelor’s in engineering. During his senior year at Noll, Mendoza received a full
scholarship from the QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship program, which connects high-achieving, lowincome high school seniors to the nation’s top colleges.
2021
Emma Short, a senior management major in Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, accepted an offer to join medical equipment manufacturer Medline Industries upon her graduation from IU. Emma, who also has a co-major of professional sales and a minor in healthcare management and policy, received the offer after completing a summer internship with Medline’s Diagnostics Team in Chicago.
STAY INFORMED
Have you moved since high school? Are you on your third email address? We know it’s hard to keep all of your information updated, so let us help you. Email us at advancement@bishopnoll.org with your current information and we will make sure we have everything correct. Having your updated address and email address will allow us to send you all the latest BNI news and upcoming events.
Update your alumni info today! Scan here.
Tim and
The Class of 1984 reunited in September at Cloister in the Woods. The night before the reunion, several classmates attended the Homecoming football game and Tailgate party, posing together on the new athletic stadium endzone.
Class of 1964
The Class of 1964 had an amazing night during the 60th reunion in September at Briar Ridge Country Club, Schererville. As ’60s music spun in the background, classmates enjoyed conversations and dinner before heading outside for their official class photo.
Class of 1959
The Class of 1959 had a reunion at Teibel's restaurant. This group meets at least once a year to rekindle their friendships and reminisce about their high school days.
Class of 1962
Classmates from the Class of 1962 met with school President Paul Mullaney ’77 to hear about updates at Bishop Noll.
Upcoming Reunions
Class of 1965
A 60th reunion will take place June 27-28, 2025. It starts on Friday, June 27, with a casual gathering at State Line Pizza in Oakridge Plaza, Route 30, Schererville. The cost is $20 per person. Saturday, June 28, will feature a more formal dinner at Andorra Banquets, 1112 U.S. 41, Schererville. A cash bar opens at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7. The cost for Saturday’s dinner is $40 per person. Sunday, June 29, is open for personal choice. Please RSVP by June 10, indicating which day(s) you will be attending, the names of all attendees in your party, and your payment made out to “BNI Class of 1965.” Send your RSVP and remittance to Cheryl Lorance, 7444 Magoun Ave., Hammond, IN 46324. Numerous accommodations are available in the area. For more information, contact Elaine Engle Bielefeld at ebielefeld1@att.net or (219) 696-1805, or Cheryl Watts Lorance at cheryllorance@sbcglobal.net or (219) 798-6700. The reunion committee also includes Jim Wieser, Dan Hoffman, Tom and Nancy Bryzgalski Kolodziej, Linda Szymanski Colter, Marilyn Rieder Ambos, Cindy Krol and Tory Hudspeth.
Class of 1975
A 50th reunion with dinner, cash bar, music and reminiscing is at 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at Munster’s Center for Visual & Performing Arts. The cost is $80 per person or $150 per couple until July 1, and $90 per person after that date. Payment can be made by mailing a check payable to Mark Volkmann with the notation “Class of 75 Reunion” to 6619 Missouri Ave., Hammond, IN 46323, or via Zelle to markvolkmann@comcast.net with the same notation. A BNI tour will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 (arrive early at Door A), followed by a pay-your-own-way gathering at 7 p.m. at Danny Z’s in Munster. Please provide name(s) (including maiden name), email address, cell number, and whether you will attend the BNI Tour a nd/or the gathering at Danny Z’s to markvolkmann@comcast.net.
Lodging is available in Munster at the Hampton Inn (219) 836-5555 and the Homewood Suites (219) 836-5020. Call and mention the “Reunion Discount” code. Direct any questions to markvolkmann@ comcast.net or (219) 781-4722.
1975 Football Team
The BNI Advancement Office is organizing a 50-year reunion for the 1975 undefeated football team to correspond with the Noll football game Sept. 12, 2025. Please email advancement@bishopnoll.org if interested in organizing or attending.
Class of 1980
Interested in helping plan a 45th reunion? For information or to join the committee, email Mark Webster at webster.cubbie@gmail.com.
Class of 1985
A 40th reunion will be held in conjunction with BNI’s 2025 Homecoming weekend.
Friday, Sept. 19: Welcome reception prior to homecoming game and Alumni Tailgate.
Please remember those who have gone to their eternal rest.
Contact Us
For class lists: Nico Gonzalez, Alumni Relations Coordinator, NGonzalez@bishopnoll.org
To submit alumni photos: Jen Florek, Communications Coordinator, jflorek@bishopnoll.org
1968 Suzanne (Zellner) Collins
1968 James Marshall
1970 Marcia McShane Lombard
1972 William Benedek
1972 Robert J. Hanrahan, III
1972 Robert Ispas
1972 Margaret Papierz Hogan
1972 Daniel Richwalski
1974 John A. Banka
1974 Walter M. Drazbo
1978
1979
1982
Saturday, Sept. 20: Main Event at Byway Brewing Co., Hammond Sunday, Sept. 21: Farewell Brunch TBA Classmates are encouraged to join the “Bishop Noll Institute Class of 1985” Facebook page to receive important details and/or update your contact info by emailing bishopnollclassof1985@gmail.com.
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.
Organizers were Suzi Scott and Georgene Kochis Duncan.
1519 Hoffman Street, Hammond, IN 46327 (219)932-9058
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The Homecoming court leads the seniors onto the new athletic field for the Homecoming pep rally.
Bishop Noll Institute is charging forward, ready to take it to the next level! This issue celebrates the unwavering Warrior spirit, from the roar of the crowd in the new athletic stadium to the growing student enrollment and the re-energized alumni community.
Here’s a salute to the Warrior legacy—past, present and future— mind, body and soul.