In reflecting on the 2022-2023 school year as it comes to a close, I am reminded of God’s mercies and prayerfully reminiscing as members of our BK Community are leaving for their next chapters and we are welcoming new members to campus for the upcoming school year. I remain grateful to God for bringing our sisters to Bishop Kelley to partner with the school’s long-term mission of carrying on the teaching ministry of Jesus Christ in a way that prepares our students for a truly purposeful life. My gratitude continues to grow as I come to know students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni and others who form our vibrant BK Community.
At the beginning of 2023, as the school was returning from Christmas Break, we were saddened to lose a long-time member of our Community, Dan Schmitz. Although we miss him tremendously, I have witnessed our community rally together. I believe Dan’s legacy will have a lasting impact on Bishop Kelley for generations to come.
The “We Are BK, Honoring our Legacy, Building our Future” Capital Campaign debuted publicly with the publishing of the Fall/Winter 2022 Ambassador Magazine and we have been greatly blessed with the opening of our new Dining Hall in March. Bishop Konderla and the many donors who made this state-of-the-art facility possible were able to join our student body, faculty and staff for a Blessing and Ribbon Cutting. It has been beautiful to see our students enjoying the community that the new space facilitates as well as the tasty and nutritious food we are able to provide as we nourish students body, mind and soul. We are working diligently to raise the remaining $5 Million toward the $25 Million total goal! My sincere gratitude to the many generous benefactors who have already partnered with the school in this endeavor!
An especially poignant time during this school year came on April 4th when our Chaplain and Campus Minister held a Day of Mercy: Reconciliation & Eucharistic Adoration. It was a moving service and one that many students took part in.
As temperatures warmed up, I was fortunate to be able to visit our student athletes during their spring sports practices and you, as a Community, came together surrounding some OSSAA and Legislative updates. Our voices were heard and as of this printing, public and private schools will enjoy equitable competitive experiences at the playoff level. We remain vigilant in monitoring this ever-changing situation.
Finally, the time has come to say farewell to “Our Priest” Father Duy Nguyen who has faithfully served as Bishop Kelley’s Chaplain for the last six years. While we will miss his daily relational ministry on campus, we are excited to see what the Lord has planned for him in his new role as Vocations Director for the Diocese. Our sadness is also matched by great joy in welcoming Father Jon Fincher ’11 as he returns to BKHS in his new role as full-time Priest Chaplain! Father Fincher brings with him a love for teaching and is excited to open a new chapter for our students by teaching theology classes at BK as part of his ministry.
As we close out the 2022-2023 school year, my hope is that we continue striving to make Catholic education accessible for all those who desire it, helping our students grow in faith and are ever-faithful to the work entrusted to us by the Lord.
Yours in Christ,
Sister Mary Hanah Doak, RSM
The mission of Bishop Kelley High School is to carry on the teaching ministry of Jesus Christ by providing a Catholic, Lasallian education that develops individuals whose hearts and minds are prepared for a purposeful life.
Faith in the Presence of God
We call each other into a deeper awareness of our saving relationship with a caring and loving God through Jesus Christ.
“Let us remember we are in the Holy Presence of God.”
We call each other to an awareness of the poor and victims of injustice and respond through community service and advocacy.
“Enter to learn, leave to serve.”
We acknowledge each others’ dignity and identity as children of God.
“Live Jesus in our hearts...Forever.”
We provide an education that prepares students not only for college, career, and vocation, but also for life through the Lasallian ideal.
“Teaching Minds and Touching Hearts.”
We are a Catholic community where diverse strengths and limitations are recognized and accepted.
“The Lasallian Family”
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Comet Accomplishments
“We Are BK” Capital Campaign Update
By Doug Thomas
Bishop Kelley Summer
By Hayden Heckenkemper, ’23
Remembering Dan Schmitz ’77
By Jeana Sutton
A Week at the Oklahoma Capitol
By Hayden Heckenkemper, ’23
Kindness Challenge
By Veronica Sousa, ’25
Lasallian Founder’s Alumni Awards
By Hayden Heckenkemper, ’23
Teacher Feature
By Grace Wells ’24 and Amy Nagode, ’24
“We Are BK” Griffin Match Update
2023 Auction: A Night in the Garden Spring Sports Showcase
By Peyton Coburn, ’24
Link Crew
By Hayden Heckenkemper, ’23
Ceramics by Bishop Kelley
Q&A: BK’s Top Service Hour Earners
By Sarah Dicks, ’04
After seeing their three-year Class 5A State Championship winning streak snapped last year, the Comets battled back to yet another 5A East Regional title and then their fourth state crown, edging Carl Albert by one point after winning the final relay!
Feb 16-18, 2023
• Edmond, Oklahoma
2023 Winter Homecoming Court
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TITLe!
2 Winter Homecoming Court
(left to right): Kai Livesay, Malana Eureste, Will Hennessay, Mackenzie Hayes, Owen Zellers, Rae Harrel, Hayden Heckenkemper, Queen Elizabeth Sullivan, Tessie Griggs, David Bryan, Maid of Honor Elle Stanger, Josh Cutsinger, Curry Kendall, Will Beasley, Ann Blankenship and Connor Kelley
BK has EIGHT National Merit Scholars (left to right): Julia Bush, Max Gangel, Owen Anderson, Elle Stanger, Evan Baumgartner, Noah Hanisch, Georgia Bachman, and Lily Carey!
• Academic State Championship: 1st Place: Team GPA 3.868
• Foreign Extemporaneous Speaking: Bella Abele ‘23 - State Champ
2-10-2023
3 2023 naTionaL meriT
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Speech
Great season for BK Wrestling, finishing at the 5A State Tournament in Oklahoma City:
• Cameron Leake ‘23: 2nd at 175 lbs
• Bobby Burke ‘25: 3rd at 126 lbs
Results
The RoboComets finished 2nd at the Oklahoma State Robotics Competition on February 25, 2023. They were also awarded 1st place in the Think Award and 3rd place in the Inspire Award. Will Danz ‘24 was named a Dean’s List Semifinalist. The team was led by seniors Max Gangel, Roman Jones, Emily Burke, and Sully Barbour.
MOCK TRIAL
Mock Trial competed against Broken Arrow High School and Moore High School in the qualifying round of the Oklahoma Bar Association Mock Trial Competition. BK defeated Broken Arrow in the morning round with Julia Bush winning Best Attorney and Ella Fulkerson winning Best Witness. In the afternoon round Bella Abele and Madelene Sousa won Best Attorney and Best Witness respectively.
This year, the Junior Girls were victorious in the annual Powderpuff Football Game that was held on Lasallian Founders Day, May 15, 2023.
SENIOR CLASS BOARD-CLASS OF 2024
President: Blaine Morrison
Vice President: Owen Eacret
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comeT wresTLing
Treasurer: Ashby Miller
Secretary: Angelina Nguyen
Board Members: Ryder Drummond, Kenzie Kelley, Peyton Coburn, Jack Oliver, Thaison Luu, Liddy Rooker, Emily Magness
JUNIOR CLASS BOARD-CLASS OF 2025
BK won its 7th state title in ten years with a 290-110 victory over Edison. BK’s Team includes Justin Walter, Elle Stanger, McCaleb Doyle, Jed Nelson, Vaibiv Aggarwal, Dylan Huntley, Divya Thomas, and Daniel Papa. Their coach is Ms. Medea Bendel.
2023 Academic Bowl State Champs!
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President: Giavanna Smith
Vice President: Beau Goodwin
Treasurer: Trent Jones
Secretary: Malana Eureste
Board Members: Emily Clower, Amelia Johnson, Harry Hillman, Brylee Roberts, Natalia Ochoa
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By Doug Thomas, Director of Philanthropy
Just over three years into Bishop Kelley’s largest-ever capital campaign and now in the public phase, benefactors have pledged and given $20M toward the school’s $25M goal. That goal is roughly four times larger than the school’s most-recent comprehensive capital campaign, Forever Bishop Kelley, which was launched in 2006 and resulted in a new library, perimeter fencing around the school, and other projects.
We are BK, Honoring our Legacy - Building our Future, is the result of a year-long study and part of the school’s strategic plan; its goal is to enhance student safety, provide indoor and outdoor spaces that promote a stronger student community, add new and larger classrooms, and grow the school’s endowment with the additional annual earnings enabling more families to afford a BK education for their children.
Although it’s not the norm to start construction before 100% of the campaign goal is raised, BK broke ground in January 2022 on a new 26,000 squarefoot, two-story dining hall/student commons that is
the centerpiece of the construction component of the campaign. Bishop Kelley moved forward with construction to avoid the rapidly increasing cost of steel. The school also acquired property along Skelly Drive and 41st Street and built a new parking lot and welcoming entrance/lobby to the gyms that will better accommodate the BK community and visitors, keeping guests separate from student spaces during athletic tournaments held on school days.
“We are truly grateful for the gifts that donors have made to support this campaign,” said Sister Mary Hanah Doak, RSM, who serves as BK’s President. “Donations to the campaign have ranged from $100 to well over $1M and we’re truly thankful for each and every gift that’s been made thus far.”
The dining hall was completed on time and blessed by Bishop David Konderla, the Very Reverend Fr. Gary Kastl, and BK’s Chaplain, Fr. Duy Nguyen, on March 10, 2023. The student body, faculty, staff and many of the donors who have supported the capital campaign attended the dedication and blessing. The secure gym entrance is nearly complete and will welcome guests and students at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year.
Immediately following the dedication of the dining hall, the contractor, Cowen Construction, began demolishing interior walls of the former kitchen and cafeteria to build nine classrooms that are to be finished August 1, 2023. Social studies teachers will move into the new classroom building, allowing theology faculty members to relocate to classrooms in the B Wing by the start of the 2023-24 school year.
The PC Building, where theology classes have been taught since 1982, will be razed in the fall of 2023 and that area will be returned to green space. That building, which is beyond repair, was the original convent for the Sisters of Divine Providence and was occupied by the Sisters from the school’s inception in 1960 until 1981, when the religious order could no longer provide sisters to BK.
As the school continues its efforts to attract new donors to the capital campaign, the design phase is underway for the eventual conversion of the former Commons (original BK library) located in the Brother Bernardine Building. These spaces will be converted into three classrooms and smaller student breakout rooms, and the adjacent office spaces will be reconfigured for faculty, staff, the IT department, and for other needs of the school.
“Some teachers don’t have permanent classrooms as there aren’t enough to accommodate the faculty and a few part-time teachers,” said BK Principal Jim Franz. “We’re striving to build larger classrooms that better facilitate 21st Century learning, allowing for collaborative learning spaces.”
Bishop Kelley offers 192 courses, including 20 Honors classes and 22 Advanced Placement (AP) Courses.
Financial aid applications made through a national company called FACTS show the actual need of families wanting to send children to BK each year is nearly $1.5M, leaving a gap of over $400,000. If the school reaches its campaign goal of adding $4M to the endowment, this should generate $200,000 or more each year for tuition assistance, cutting the gap in half.
The $4M endowment component of the capital campaign is key to allowing more financially challenged families to afford a BK education. Nearly one-fourth of all BK students receive some level of tuition assistance. Ten years ago, the school was able to distribute $500,000 a year in tuition assistance. As
the school’s endowment has grown, coupled with support from the two scholarship-granting organizations (Veritas and Go For Catholic Schools) along with the St. Francis of Assisi Endowment Fund, BK is now giving out just over $1M annually in tuition assistance. At the time of this writing, We Are BK donors have allocated $1.4M of their gifts to the endowment to boost the amount of tuition assistance awarded annually.
“Bishop Kelley, like all tuition-paying high schools, has a difficult balance to meet wherein we have strong programming and competitive salaries but don’t have tuition costs that grow in such a way that only certain families can come to BK,” said Sister Mary Hanah. “It has been important to the school’s identity from its beginning with the Christian Brothers that it serves a broad range of families. For that reason, this campaign not only emphasizes growing our spaces but also growing the endowment for tuition assistance.”
Gifts to any existing or new endowment fund that supports tuition assistance count toward the endowment goal. BK endowments can be found on the school’s website at https://www.bishopkelley.org/ giving or scan the QR code below.
Donors interested in touring the new facilities and learning more about the current and planned construction projects or the endowment component are invited to contact BK Director of Philanthropy, Doug Thomas at, dthomas@bishopkelley.org, or call 918.609.7115. You can also find more information on the BK website at bishopkelley.org
It’s safe to say that at Bishop Kelley, learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. From worldwide travel, athletic endeavors, service opportunities, and further classroom growth, Bishop Kelley students spend the summer months in many ways — via school and personal experiences. Comets actively seek enriching opportunities this summer, improving their global view, community outlook, and new skill sets.
Bishop Kelley to Europe. Kalina and a group of BK students representing each grade will travel through France, Spain, and Italy for twelve days, aligning with Bishop Kelley’s French, Spanish, and Latin language programs. “I’ve heard Europe is beautiful, so I’m looking forward to seeing it first-hand,” said Kalina, who’s taken French classes all three years of her high school career. So naturally, she’s most excited about visiting France. “I’m excited to be able to practice speaking French because I’ve been taking it since middle school but haven’t had the chance to use it,” she says.
For Junior Kalina Williams, this summer poses an entirely new experience as she travels with
Among other historic destinations the group will visit during her first time in Europe, Kalina’s excited to see the Vatican, Eiffel Tower, and Pompeii. Trips abroad are a long-standing tradition at Bishop Kelley. Last year, students and chaperons, led by Chaplain Father Duy, spent their Spring Break on a pilgrimage in Rome, Italy, and the BK chapter of the National Honor Society had plans to travel on a service trip to Peru for this year’s Spring Break. (It was reluctantly canceled due to political unrest in the country.) One thing’s for sure, though: this summer will have Comets saying Bonjour, Hola, and Ciao on their trips to remember.
Vacation, Volunteering, miSSion tripS, college prep & athleticS Keep returning ometS and new gradS BuSy thiS Summer!
Each break during the school year, some students use their time to serve communities in need through mission trips via the Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma or other places across the area. Senior Owen Zellers will be one in a group of people to participate in Christ the King’s mission trip this summer. With this being his second time participating in a mission trip, Owen is excited to be headed to Caldwell, Texas. Not only do mission trips help the communities they serve, but according to Owen, they also lead to immense personal growth. “Mission trips are a great way to help our communities.” Owen encourages everyone to try and find a way to attend one, saying, “It was an eye-opener for me, and it helped my faith grow in unique ways.” While he expects the same level of personal growth as his first mission trip, he’s enthusiastic about changes that might be brought on by Christ the King’s new youth minister, who is organizing his first mission trip for the group.
Just like during the school year, athletics never ends. While it might be exciting to shout on the sidelines, it’s more impressive to take your sports career to the next level: signing with a Division 1 program. This is the reality for senior Will Applegate, who will play soccer with the University of Tulsa beginning with the 2023-24 school year. The preparation starts this summer, though, as Will moves onto TU’s campus early to start his soccer career with the Golden Hurricane. Will committed to TU during his junior year and signed with them this past November. “I expect there to be a lot of conditioning and training this summer,” Will says. When asked what he’s most excited about, it’s the different people he’ll encounter. “I’m most excited to meet many new people from different countries worldwide.” The decision to commit and train with the University of Tulsa wasn’t tough. “I love to play soccer, and continuing this passion just makes sense,” summed up Will, whose experience mirrors many of his BK student-athlete classmates. Like Will, Comet athletes from all sports find a way to work on their craft throughout the summer with opportunities like football and lacrosse camps, dance workshops, and volleyball tournaments.
To some, summer means growth. To some, it means adventure. To many, the prospect of having nearly three months off of school allows them to pursue opportunities impossible to enjoy during the busy school year. Travel, athletics, volunteering, and art will all make for a summer worth remembering.
Slide shows, a golf cart, and statistics. These are a few of the many legacies he leaves behind. On January 1, 2023, the Bishop Kelley community lost Dan Schmitz, a true Comet. During his 34 years at Bishop Kelley, students and faculty experienced Dan’s kindness, his sincerity, and his Catholic faith.
Dan graduated from BK in 1977 and was invited back to BK in 1989 to teach theology. From organizing department lunches to leading “primal screams” on Fridays, Dan became a beloved member of the PC community. In addition, during all his years at BK, he was a leader on several Kairos retreats, a member of the Lasallian Society Signum Fedei, and a facilitator of a small group of faculty and staff each month for the Lectio Divina prayer. “He was a sincere friend and follower of Christ,” said Alice Kauble.
A few years after he began teaching at BK, Dan moved into the business department and taught computer science. Pat Hinson, Dean of Academics, said, “He engaged with each student to help them find success.” She recalled a student from the Blessed Stanley Rother Program who had a difficult time keeping up in Dan’s computer literacy class. Because the student was interested in the school’s upcoming musical, Dan created a slide presentation assignment for the student, which was eventually shown school-wide. “His thoughtfulness gave [the student] experience creating as well as meaningful purpose. That’s the kind of person Dan was,” said
Hinson. His computer classes put several slide shows together for every all-school Mass and for the annual slide show at the school’s end-of-the-year awards assembly. Maureen Lawler, BK college counselor, said, “Dan would extend his deadline so no student was left out. He never complained when we kept adding information. He always wanted the students to be recognized.”
One cannot think of Dan and not remember him driving around the campus in the now-famous golf cart. He offered rides to those on crutches, on scooters, and even to those who just “couldn’t turn down Dan’s smile.” Regina Foster was caught in the rain on her first day of substitute teaching. Dan saw her in the parking lot and offered her a ride to her class so that she would be on time. Trevor Parks remembers meeting Dan on the first day of his freshman year. Dan saw Trevor walking to the STC, pulled up, and told him, “hop in.” They began talking like they had known each other all of their lives. “His warmth,” said Parks, “was Dan’s greatest gift to everyone.”
Lowery Nuse ’98) said Dan would share statistics of the other teams with the girls, and he always encouraged them to do their best. Lance Parks, BK Athletic Director, said, “Some of [my] favorite work moments have been sitting on the rock walls with Dan at the OKC Tennis Center watching the state championship tournament all day. He was as kindhearted as people come.”
Beginning in 1989, Dan was the head coach of the girls’ tennis team for 13 years and won two state titles during his reign. Sallie Lowery (mother of Sarah
If anyone wanted to know the number of goals made by a basketball player in any given season or what the batting average was for a BK baseball player from 1992, all he had to do was ask Dan. He kept the statistics for all sports at BK, a service that all coaches and athletic directors greatly appreciated.
“Very few organizations have a person willing to compile, maintain and safeguard the records that help keep generations of students connected with each other,” said JJ Tappana, BK Head Football Coach. Jeri Berna, Assistant AD, said that Dan kept such good records that it made it easy for the Athletic Hall of Champions Committee to choose its nominees each year. “While Dan did feel a responsibility to do these things, he actually did it because he LOVED it! He loved the challenge of it, he loved the Comets and heralding their achievements,” said Berna, “and the bottom line was, he is good at it!”
As a Catholic Lasallian educator, Dan Schmitz touched the lives of many students and colleagues. According to Matthew 25:23: “His Lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’”
Dan, BK will miss you.
monday, apriL 10, 2023: After arriving Sunday evening in Oklahoma City and after a short introduction to my week ahead, I woke up early, put on my suit and tie, and drove to the Oklahoma State Capitol building alongside 14 other Oklahoma juniors and seniors.
Our task: serve as High School Pages for the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
After an unofficial tour of the Capitol, consisting of each place we, as pages, would need to go, we had an official Capitol art tour that showed and explained the numerous pieces of art that cover the inside of the Oklahoma Capitol.
So, what is a page? Each week of Congress’ Legislative Session (late February to late May), high school students are sponsored by a State Representative to come to help them for a week. Page Week is busy with activities, from attending committee meetings to delivering paperwork to another Representative’s office. Most notably, high school pages sit in on the daily general session and help keep messages and information flowing from outside the session (only Representatives are allowed inside), with lobbyists and legislative assistants, to the Representatives themselves.
I was sponsored by Representative Suzanne Schreiber of Oklahoma House District 70, which happens to be Bishop Kelley’s district!
I attended her meetings for banking, financial services, and pensions. I’m not an expert in those fields and watching the process occur in real time was exciting and new. For the remainder of the day, I walked around the Capitol’s East Wing, where the House of Representatives is based, and delivered notes to various offices.
Tuesday, apriL 11, 2023: Today was a busy and rare day at the State Capitol.
Congress had joint session between the House of Representatives and the Senate. Along with an introductory speech by Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, Governor Kevin Stitt gave a speech. Joint Session isn’t typical at the Capitol - usually, there are three each year - so I’m lucky to have experienced such a moment.
It was also Capitol Agriculture Day! Each year, the Capitol hosts days dedicated to different industries and events or
to raise awareness about various topics. Different corporations, shops, and non-profits will set up booths on the Capitol’s 2nd floor to encourage conversations and spread information about the day’s topic.
Agriculture Day was busy, as agriculture is vital to most Oklahomans. Student groups from across the state, companies, and lobbyists for agricultural issues swarmed the area to discuss the topic of the day. Some booths even had food and small souvenirs to take home.
I spent my day walking around the booths and helping my Representative with whatever was necessary. It was a successful and exciting day!
wednesday, apriL 12, 2023: Just like yesterday, today was a special day at the Capitol: Innovation Day!
Numerous booths were set up by technology start-ups from across Oklahoma. It is inspiring to speak with company representatives and founders to hear how their innovation helps industries across Oklahoma and how they help tackle problems in their communities using technology.
The pages had the opportunity to eat with some State Representatives for lunch. One of these Representatives was Clay Staires of Skiatook. When he asked where I attended high school, he quickly mentioned that he taught in the Bishop Kelley science department for two years in the late 2000s. It was ironic and amusing that of all places I could’ve met a former Bishop Kelley teacher, it was at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
My morning was spent participating in a mock debate on the House floor with the other pages. The bill I presented passed! It was a fun experience and a rewarding job well done. The rest of my day was filled with constant runs to the Capitol mail room while ending my last night with a scavenger hunt at the Oklahoma History Museum and a dinner at Charleston’s.
Thursday, apriL 13, 2023: Capitol Autism Day, featuring various businesses and non-profits serving people on the autism spectrum. In talks with people I encountered, I was able to speak about my experience as part of Bishop Kelley’s Peer Mentor Program, which aids students with all ability levels in school, ultimately making for a more inclusive environment. It was essential to realize that inclusive
Participating in our Mock Debate on the House Floor. education opportunities don’t exist in every part of the state or country, which is why it’s so rewarding to be a part of this program at Bishop Kelley.
Thursdays are the last day of work each week for Representatives. At the final General Session, the Pages were introduced one by one by their name, district, and future plans after graduating high school. Each time someone mentioned they were attending Oklahoma State University or The University of Oklahoma, they had supporters in the crowd quick to shout, “Boomer Sooner!” or “Go Pokes!”
It was my last day, so I walked out of the Capitol and said goodbye to a week to remember and the eye-opening experience of seeing the legislative process first-hand. Hearing from representatives of all political backgrounds and opin
ions was great, seeing as it’s not every day that you can meet them personally.
I learned that the legislature is more bipartisan than most people think. More than one Representative told me that at least 90% of decisions are bipartisan. Ultimately, you might not respect the person or their opinions, but you must respect their office. Juniors and seniors, take advantage of this great opportunity!
Tell them about Bishop Kelley!
We’re always looking for talented teachers and professional staff, and we may have the perfect opportunity for someone you know! Qualified candidates can send their resume and/or CV to jobs@bishopkelley.org. We keep this information on file to reference when we have openings.
Mother Teresa once said, “Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one come to you without leaving happier.” This quote inspired what my goal is with this project. I want to leave those around me happier and help others to inspire happiness too.
I have been a Girl Scout for the past ten years. The goal of Girl Scouting is to inspire girls to be leaders in their community while learning valuable life skills. The highest award a Girl Scout can earn is the Gold Award. To earn this award, the Girl Scout must complete a project that solves an issue in her community. The project must be sustainable and the Girl Scout must put 80 hours of service into it. Since I was a Daisy Scout, I wanted to earn my Gold Award and make a difference in my community.
Before coming to Bishop Kelley, I attended St. Pius X school. While at St. Pius, my Girl Scout troop started a project called “Random Acts of Kindness Day.” We held this event annually starting in second grade and continued it until we graduated. Our goal was to combat bullying, and since leaving St. Pius, I knew I wanted to not only continue the project but make it something bigger.
The summer before my sophomore year, I began to really brainstorm what to do for my Gold Award Project. I had the idea to start some sort of “Random Acts of Kindness Project” at Bishop Kelley, but I did not know where to start or who to talk to. One day I was chatting with Mrs. Clayton, who is a counselor at Bishop Kelley, about how I wished I could start a project like that. She informed me that Ms. Jeana Sutton, an English teacher
at Bishop Kelley, was looking for a student to work on a Kindness Project.
I immediately wanted to take part and bring the project to life. I began emailing and meeting with Ms. Sutton about what I wanted to do to make it my Gold Award and how to bring this project to Bishop
Kelley. I announced my first Kindness Challenge on November 11, 2022. I was so excited to get the project started with the goal of leading by example and inspiring others to spread kindness.
Each week, I announce Kindness Challenges to remind Bishop Kelley of this kindness goal. To add to the project, I asked teachers to submit kindness shout-
outs to be added to a Kindness Board in the main hallway. We have received amazing messages from faculty and staff thanking the Bishop Kelley Community for being kind. I hope to continue this project until I graduate in 2025 and then pass the project down so it may continue. This project will be my final Girl Scout project, and my goal is to leave it in good hands and continue on myself by being a kindness advocate in my community.
The easiest way to make someone’s day is through a simple act of kindness. It does not have to cost money or take a lot of time. Simply smiling and greeting people as you pass by them can instantly make a difference. I have worked on kindness projects for about eight years now and something I have learned is that being kind is not a challenge; it is a choice. Each day we must choose to be kind to those around us. These simple acts of kindness can truly change the world.
Since 2012, the GO for Catholic Schools Tax Credit Scholarship Fund has been a pioneer in making a high-quality Catholic school education more affordable and accessible for more families and children.
Every dollar you contribute directly supports scholarships for students to attend a Catholic school in northeastern Oklahoma.
You can take advantage of a significant tax credit that transforms some of your state income taxes into a gift of scholarships for Catholic Schools.
goforcatholicschools.org
Veritas is a scholarship-granting organization (SGO) that provides scholarships to K-12 students in the Diocese of Tulsa to attend accredited Catholic schools in the Diocese. Gifts made through this program provide scholarships to children who would otherwise not be able to afford a quality Catholic education. This program is an easy way to give to Catholic schools in the Diocese and receive an Oklahoma state income tax credit.
veritasok.org
Working extensively throughout the Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma, Caitlyn Gonya is an exemplary young alumnus who has used her short time since graduating from Bishop Kelley to do big things. During her four years at Bishop Kelley, Caitlyn filled her schedule with Speech and Debate, among other things, and attended daily Mass.
After graduating from Bishop Kelley in 2011, Caitlyn attended Benedictine College in Kansas, where she got her Bachelor’s degree in Theology and English, graduating in 2015. While at Benedictine, Caitlyn served as a Totus Tuus missionary for the Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma. After graduating, she worked as the Youth and Young Adult Minister of Parish of Christ the King and then spent three years in the Youth Office of the Chancery. Caitlyn graduated in 2018 with a Master’s in Theology from the University of Notre Dame.
Caitlyn is the current Director of Mission and Faith Formation at Christ the King. Beyond her role in the Diocese, Caitlyn has worked to implement an event called Song Praise in the Diocese, which includes food, Adoration, praise and worship, and talk. Sing Praise has been held at 11 locations, including a prison. Furthermore, Caitlyn created a five-year strategic plan for the parish and aided with the faith-based elements of the school’s strategic plan.
Simply put, Caitlyn exhibits what it means to be a servant-leader. Her hard work, faith, and service have led to opportunities across the Diocese for others to invest in their faith journeys. She’s used her education at Bishop Kelley and beyond to instill knowledge in others, especially her children.
It’s safe to say that Marilyn Troupe has spent her life investing time in the next generation. Her dedication to education across the country has bettered the lives of others and culminate in her receiving this year’s Lasallian Founder’s Award in Quality Education.
Marilyn, a 1963 graduate, has embraced education as her vocation. She’s worked for Oral Roberts University, Tulsa Public Schools, and Lane College of Jackson, Mississippi. Beyond the classroom, Marilyn has done further work in education through the Oklahoma Department of Vocational Education and the Education & Professional Standards Board in Frankfort, Kentucky. To round out her experience, she worked for the Department of the Army at the Pentagon in Virginia. Furthermore, her volunteer work is evident, as are the results.
She’s served on numerous boards nationwide, including the St. Monica’s Parish Council in Tulsa and the Foster Care Review Board. In the Diocese, she wears many hats, serving as a Eucharistic Minister, Lecturer, part of the Altar Society, Catholic Daughters of America, and as a CCD teacher. She fills her schedule by volunteering at soup kitchens, Walk for Mankind, and Special Olympics–among other activities. She’s served every generation, from helping young girls and boys with etiquette and self-esteem to volunteering with the Elderly Nutrition Program and the Adult Daycare Center for the Elderly.
Marilyn has raised funds for Catholic Schools in Kentucky, taught religious education in Mississippi, and worked with youth in Oklahoma. She has been a model for all to be great citizens and active community members.
David Nyikos is a distinguished alumnus with extensive experience in International Security and Military Operations. His worldview is vast, and he’s used his expertise to create a safer, more secure tomorrow. His work has proved his ability as a leader and model of dedication and courage.
After graduating from Bishop Kelley in 1991, David attended the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado. Upon earning his bachelor’s degree in Engineering Sciences, he completed pilot training at the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training and F-15 follow-on training. With the training, David flew F-15 jets in Virginia and Alaska and acted as a forward air controller at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Upon earning his Master of Science in Engineering Management from the Air Force Institute of Technology, he was selected as a Service Chiefs’ Intern at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. He commanded a squadron in San Antonio and led men and women in ground and air combat in Afghanistan and over Iraq. He returned to school and earned his Master of Arts in Political and Military Sciences at the Royal Belgian Military Academy. He then worked as a representative for the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman at the NATO Headquarters. He served as Director of the Joint Air Component Coordination Element and Chief of Staff of the NATO Air Component Afghanistan before returning to the United States as the Deputy Director of Operations at Air Combat Command.
David successfully led military squadrons to receive awards as the best air superiority squadron and the best support squadron in the Air Force. David is the current Chief of Defense Cooperation for the United States Air Force at the U.S. Embassy in The Hague, The Netherlands, coordinating security cooperation activities between the Department of Defense and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Beyond his professional positions, David has found time to volunteer across the country and the world. He’s coached basketball for the non-profit Upwards Sports and has found opportunities to serve in each school his children have attended. David Nyikos has found a balance between serving his country, maintaining an incredibly successful career, and building a strong family with an enduring marriage.
David’s intrinsic motivation to serve others and leave the world a better place than he found has led to his successes and ultimate recognition today.
Few have matched the volunteering spirit of Sheila Michie. Her work for people from all walks of life has provided light to those around her as she’s served in the Diocese and beyond.
After graduating from Bishop Kelley in 1971, Sheila attended the University of Tulsa and earned a bachelor’s degree in Education. While at TU, Sheila served with the Benedictine Sisters as a reading tutor for students from Burroughs Elementary School and then worked with Sunshine Services to provide care to those who were homebound, either elderly or disabled. Sheila also worked at Children’s Medical Center with children afflicted by severe, profound disabilities, which inspired her obtain a certification in Special Education and a degree in Education. She taught at Burroughs Elementary School with Tulsa Public Schools and then returned to her education to earn her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and her Principal certification. She returned to education as the Assistant Principal of Burroughs and Emerson Elementary Schools and eventually Interim Principal of McClure.
After leaving Tulsa Public Schools, Sheila was inspired to begin the Women of Peace Ministry, where she led women’s retreats and became a public speaker. A new opportunity arose when she was asked to pioneer and direct a Youth Mentoring after-school program at St. Francis Xavier Church for Cleveland and Kendall Whitter school students. During that period, San Miguel School was being established, and a year later, she became the school’s religion and language arts teacher— a position she remained in for six years. She continues to be a beacon for those across the world who read her posts on her blog, Becoming Women of Peace, and through her husband’s company Empowerment Enterprise, where she and her husband, Charles, have organized and led leadership and team-building adventures and retreats with schools, churches, and other groups.
Sheila’s volunteer experience is extensive. Sheila has served on the Catholic Ministry team for the Tulsa County Jail, and as a Section Representative for the Diocese of Tulsa at the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre Southwestern United States. She is a Pentecost Today USA Council Member, and has led numerous ACTS retreats. She continues to serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and lector in the Diocese.
Sheila has boldly shared the word of God and allowed the Diocesan community to grow through her help in recruiting some of San Miguel’s first students, and her active involvement in too many retreats to count. Her work with the poor and vulnerable has solidified her place as a role model for all.
Nyikos
By Grace Wells
Teaching is more than just a career; it’s something bigger than a classroom, beyond the pages in a textbook. Teaching is the connection between an individual and their potential within education. It is the bridge to the fullness of knowledge. This is seen and experienced on a daily basis through the instruction of Sister Mary Elisha Glady, RSM. Since becoming a member of the BK community two years ago, Sister Mary Elisha has made an extraordinary impact within her time here.
Sister Mary Elisha taught in Cedar Rapids, Iowa at Xavier High School before she was assigned to Bishop Kelley in the fall of 2021, a decision she notes as a “vow of obedience.” Currently in her third year as an educator, Sister Mary Elisha teaches various classes within the Theology and Math Departments. She is admired by her colleagues who see her as a prime example of a team player and one who is dedicated to her work.
Also known to be “naturally caffeinated,” Sister Mary Elisha brings a sense of colorfulness to her teaching, taking on the most complex of obstacles with gracious per-
severance. When faced with these challenges, Sister, as described by fellow Theology teacher Ms. Allison Pollard, is always able to “make everything relateable and understandable for her students.” Mr. John Simons, Chair of the Theology Department, also reiterates this attribute by defining Sister Mary Elisha as a conscious “custodian for the students’ eternal souls.”
Sister Mary Elisha’s work with curriculum development is a unique talent; Simons describes her skillset as, “practically a Charism.” When asked what he most appreciates about Sister, student McCaleb Doyle remarked how “she tries to include all of the students in the lessons.” Mrs. Pollard noted that Sister is “constantly finding ways to reach the students where they are.”
Outside of the classroom, Sister Mary Elisha is a fundamental presence in the life of the school, bringing an energy that is irreplaceable into the daily lives of the teachers around her, always willing to offer contributions. Such contributions can be found in her work on the Theology Department curriculum, a true embodiment of the Lasallian principles of “Faith” and “Zeal.” In the words of Mr. Simons, Sister Mary Elisha is “a servant and instrument of the One True Master Teacher,” and such a role is seen in her work with “the lives of the young people…in every single class she teaches.”
Beyond connecting with her students and seamlessly moving through complex lessons, Sister is known for continuously raising the bar within her teaching, pushing her students spiritual development to new heights, as well as raising their level of thought and critical thinking. Even in the midst of all this, Sister moves through her day and her career with an attitude of humility and servitude to those around her. Sister Mary Elisha says she enjoys working at Bishop Kelley and collaborating with teachers. She views her work as a fulfillment of a blessing.
Since she stepped foot on the BK campus, Sister Mary Elisha has shared her gifts with others, ranging from her life as a Religious Sister of Mercy to her teaching. She truly is an invaluable gift to the Comet family.
How do you imagine a teacher during their teenage years? A nerd, maybe a brown nose? Mrs. Kathleen Zigler, however, was like any other typical high school student. In her own words, “I was quiet, I always sat in the back, always had my hoodie up.” According to Zigler, she never imagined herself becoming a teacher. “Not at all.” She laughed when asked if her career was something she had always envisioned. “I did not like school. Math especially. It was not my strong suit.”
Zigler entered Northeastern State University in 2006, initially interested in pursuing journalism. However, she later shifted her major to English. At NSU, she got to know fellow Bishop Kelley English teacher Ms. Kylie Hendricks. According to Zigler, commiserating over their shared Linguistics class was one of their most significant bonds.
Following grad school, Zigler spent some time as a college professor before transitioning to a temporary employee at Cascia Hall Preparatory School. Mrs. Zigler’s favorite part about working at various schools was (and continues to be) the students. “I cried when I left Cascia. I loved the students and was sad to see them go.”
The students continue to be Mrs. Zigler’s favorite part of being at Bishop Kelley. “I click with a lot of students. It’s fun to see their sense of humor and how bright each student is. It is so different from a huge public school. What I love about Bishop Kelley is how you are able to foster relationships with every kid.”
Her effective teaching and positive relationships with students and faculty alike have been evident this year: she was one of the first-awarded Teachers of the Month during the 2022-2023 school year!
A $200,000 challenge match; that’s what 1979 BK alumni Joe Griffin and Denise Dayer Griffin have offered to Bishop Kelley as part of the school’s historic $25M capital campaign. The offer, made nearly a year ago, is a challenge to alumni who attended BK from 1976-1982.
Since the challenge was made, alumni from those classes have contributed about $31,000, leaving $169,000 on the table. (Please note some alumni from those classes made significant gifts to the campaign prior to this challenge starting.)
“When the campaign first began in the silent phase, Fr. Gary Kastl (BK president at the time) asked Denise and me to serve on the campaign council to help open doors to other donors and generate new gifts,” Joe Griffin said. “Eventually, we decided to make a personal challenge in hopes of attracting another $200,000 to the campaign, which is very much needed.”
Having met as freshmen at BK in the fall of 1975, Joe and Denise have been married for 41 years and have three children. They sent their children to Bishop Kelley and two of them married BK alumni. The Griffins have ten grandchildren, and hope that all of them can also obtain a Bishop Kelley education.
“Some private schools have a capital campaign every three or four years, starting a new one about a year after ending the last one,” said Joe. “Bishop Kelley has gone decades between capital campaigns and so the school finds itself in a position to upgrade outdated facilities, address major structural issues, and enhance safety.”
“It is our policy not to use tuition funds for capital projects,” said Sister Mary Hanah, RSM, who is in her second year as president of Bishop Kelley. “We keep our tuition as low as possible and it covers the cost of salaries, benefits, basic upkeep of facilities, utilities, and those kinds of things.”
To afford campus improvements and grow the endowment, a concerted effort is made by the school’s Philanthropy Office to attract donors who have a passion for the mission of Bishop Kelley and the means to give, whether that’s a $500 gift or something much greater.
“We are very grateful to Joe and Denise for the leadership they have provided and for offering up their resources in a way to encourage their classmates to also support the capital campaign,” said Doug Thomas, BK’s Director of Philanthropy. “We don’t often receive challenge gifts, so when we do, we want to take full advantage of them. We’re encouraging all alumni who attended BK between the years of 1976 and 1982 to give so we can receive the full amount of this challenge grant.”
The school appreciates all donors, whether they are alumni, parents of alumni, parents of current students, grandparents, or friends of Bishop Kelley.
Scan the QR code to contribute to the Griffin Match as part of the We Are BK Capital Campaign. To scan, use your phone’s camera. Hover over the QR code as if you are taking a photo, then click the link that appears. It will take you to the donation page. 17
“We frequently hear stories about how the school changed lives and put its graduates in a position to succeed in life and we’re hoping many of those positively impacted by Bishop Kelley faculty and staff will give to the campaign,” Thomas said. “We intend to reach our $25M capital campaign goal, and it’s going to take all of us rowing in the same direction to realize these needs for our current and future generations of BK Comets.”
Ms. Zigler (left) with fellow BK English Teacher Ms. Kylie Hendrix mS. Kathleen Zigler
Saturday, April 22, 2023 Cox Convention Center Downtown Tulsa Thank
Dear Auction Patrons and Guests,
Thank you for your support of the 2023 Auction, A Night in the Garden! Together we are living out the mission of Bishop Kelley High School by providing the necessary support to provide all students with a high-quality, Catholic education. As proud BK parents, we are grateful for the opportunity to chair such an important event in support of our community. We hope you enjoy this wonderful evening surrounded by God’s natural creations.
Go Comets!
Veronica Oswald and Casey McFarlane
team to experience,” Coach Shawn Lawhorn said. “We want to hold each other accountable and make sure we are all on the same page; we have to know that we are all trying to achieve a common goal even though golf is an individual sport,” Senior Nikos Revelis said. The Comets capped off their season at the State Tourney in Duncan, leaving with a lot of hardware: the team finished 2nd overall and Will Hennessee ‘24 was the Individual State Champion with a three-round total of 7 under par.
BaseBaLL: New head coach Parker Frazier ’07 set a schedule for his team that included nine scrimmages, 14 district events, and 23 other competitive days of baseball. This is a young team and their goal for this season was to take it by storm one game at a time. They defeated Noble 5-3 in the 5A quarterfinals and bested Grove 3-1 in the semifinals before falling to Carl Albert in the State Championship game. Great first season for Coach Frazier’s Comets! We can’t wait for next year!
Boys soccer: This spring the boys’ team played three scrimmages, 14 matches and had hoped to earn a spot in the state finals. Though they were successful in their goals to build team chemistry, grow and improve together, and further develop the fundamentals of soccer, the BK Boys Soccer season came to a heartbreaking end in a penalty kick playoff loss at the hands of East Central in the second round of 5A Playoffs.
Boys goLF: This season the Comets were fierce competitors in nine events and the State Tournament. Although an individual sport, the Boy’s Golf Team focuses on pushing each other as teammates to be the best they can be. “I’m excited about playing Territory this year. It is an amazing course and a wonderful opportunity for our
Boys Tennis: This season was stacked with 16 Varsity events and many JV events. The team wanted to go asfar as they could together. Over Christmas break, BK lost a beloved member of our community, Mr. Dan Schmitz. This also meant the Boy’s Tennis Team lost a coach. “Coach Schmitz not only loved Bishop Kelley but he loved the tennis programs at Bishop Kelley. A State Champion Head Coach with the girls program early in his career and a State Champion as an assistant with the boys’ program at the end of his career. Coach Schmitz was beloved and is missed at BK and throughout the Oklahoma High School Tennis Community,” Coach Terry Stupp said. With Coach Schmitz in mind, “I am going to work as hard as possible and push through my limits to help win and support one another and make sure we all grow as a team,” Jacob Philbeck ‘23 said. They closed out the season with an excellent 4th-place finish at the 6A State Tournament. One Doubles were state runner up and #2 Doubles finished fourth.
girLs Tennis: With a total of 18 days of competitive play and exciting practices, the girls looked to improve consistency and maximize the practice time they had on the courts. This year they are striving to have fun as a team. “I always love the tennis season because the matches are always fun with other teams. It is more of an individual sport but you are still able to watch and cheer on one another. I am excited to share this last year with my teammates,” Simone Mullennix said. This team wrapped up their season at the 6A State Tennis Tournament. Jasel Bailey ‘24 made the podium at 1 Singles and finished as State Runner Up. Audrey Brown ‘23 also made the podium with a 3rd place finish.
girLs goLF: Coming off a strong season last year, and not losing any players to graduation, the girls had ten events, and made it to the 5A State Tournament at Dornick Hills in Ardmore where they shot a two-day team score of 378 to finish third.
girLs soccer: Stacked with a busy schedule of 16 Varsity games and many JV events, this team had a singular vision. “Our goal this season is to make the program better than ever so that all of us can succeed as student athletes and build a good team dynamic,” senior Katie Musshafen said. The development of team dynamics took place on the field, and off: they organized themselves into families, with big and little sisters, which helped forge a bond between upper and underclassmen. They gave a valiant effort in the 5A State Semifinal game vs Bishop McGuinness before falling 0-1 to end their season.
girLs/Boys TracK: The teams traveled to nine meets this season! The girls successfully defended last year’s State Title and are back-to-back 5A State Champions! The teams have new coaches this year that are continuing the same motivation as previous leadership. Both teams grew as a community and help each other improve. Having a new coach after three years can be a difficult feat. However, new girls’ track head coach Justin Robinson has overcome those hurdles. “I appreciate how reasonable and caring he is for his athletes. He helps us understand the why behind the different workouts we do so that we see how we are improving,” senior Alex Buckley said.
The transition to high school for incoming freshmen can be scary and raise many questions: What do I wear? How do I act? Will the classes be too difficult? For students entering Bishop Kelley, Link Crew makes that often-scary transition considerably easier.
Driving up the Bishop Kelley U-Drive at the beginning of BK’s Freshmen Orientation is an anxious moment for many. Some rising freshmen have been rumored to ask their parents to turn around and take them back home. Though the freshman experience might seem overwhelming, it’s a pivotal moment, a rite of passage, for all new students entering Bishop Kelley and this provides a chance to meet their future classmates, learn how to organize their homework, and map out the entire school.
Greeted by a long tunnel formed by Link Crew Leaders, freshmen are introduced to Bishop Kelley life by running through the tunnel cheered on by upper-level students. While freshmen think about their incoming high school chapter, Link Crew is a well-oiled machine run by students in four roles: Leaders, Commissioners, A-Team, and Transfer Leaders.
Three Link Crew Leaders meet face-to-face with ten freshmen-a Link Crew Group-multiple times throughout the two-day orientation. Their main tasks include facilitating ice-breakers, getting the group to know one another, giving advice on navigating the first year of high school, and offering a helping hand to the new Comets.
Transfer Leaders perform many of those same tasks with new transfer students; those who are coming from different high schools or even moving to Bishop Kelley from another state or country.
The A-Team makes it all possible, acting as the behindthe-scenes crew for the long days. Additionally, the A-Team helps set up lunch, as well as the iconic Freshmen Olympics, a competition for each Link Crew Group as they rotate through a series of games in the large gym. They’re looking to get the most points possible in each match, ultimately hoping to win above all other Link Crew Groups. The A-Team is responsible for setting up and explaining each game to the freshmen, while Link Crew
Leaders participate in the fun with their groups.
Commissioners are placed in pairs to oversee a couple of Link Crew Groups. This is done by ensuring that each freshman is in attendance, taking photos of events throughout the days doing check-ins with the Link Crew Leaders, and judging the freshman cheer competition after each Link Crew Group comes up with their unique cheer to show their new classmates.
Becoming a part of Link Crew isn’t a simple process. Each year, the program receives approximately 170 applications from Sophomores and Juniors, with around 120 being accepted. The application consists of teacher recommendations, a written response, and a video response answering questions. Even before they begin the application process, administration must approve each student for program participation.
With such an extensive application process, why do so many BK students want a chance to take part?
For most, it’s a no-brainer. Being a part of Link Crew allows for a chance to meet the new freshmen. The experience working in Link Crew after participating as a freshman (or transfer) comes full circle. Link Crew members love Bishop Kelley (loving Bishop Kelley is literally a prerequisite to being in Link Crew), and it’s second nature to want to share all they know about their high school experience in hopes of making the transition as smooth as possible for the new freshman class.
Freshmen go through a series of activities to acquaint themselves with Bishop Kelley. Link Crew Leaders help them locate their lockers and learn how to open them. Each freshman also goes through Bishop Kelley 101, where Link Crew Leaders tell them everything they need to know, from football game dress-up themes to hallway etiquette. Beyond that, Link Crew Leaders offer their experiences and learned lessons with their group to ensure each new student knows what to expect and how to handle new situations in high school.
The entire two-day orientation experience passes on significant information from Link Crew to the freshmen. Link Crew acts as the “Link” between incoming freshmen and the high school experience that awaits them.
Under the instruction of Ms. Sarah Rucker, BK students taking ceramics continually impressed us with their creations this year! Follow along on Instagram via @ceramicsbybk
By Hailey Shugart ‘23 By Emileigh Zahner ‘23 By Ashby Miller ‘24 By Ashlan Munson ‘23
This year, four seniors were nominated for Helper Helper’s #BeAHelper Award. These seniors served in different ways for a combined total of 2,763 hours during their time at BK.
aryn moore
Aryn is our Mother Teresa Service Award winner, serving 928 hours with various organizations through BKHS and First United Methodist Church in Broken Arrow. Aryn leads Bible studies, VBS programs, retreats, and camps. Her heart for others continues to grow as she participates in more leadership roles.
What organization/ project did you work with the most? I worked with my church youth program the most. I have been involved with this program since I was born and became even more involved when I entered high school because I had more freedom to volunteer.
What did you learn from the experience that you would want to share with your fellow students? I learned the importance of gratitude and humility. Gratitude for what I am blessed with and for the gifts I was given in order to share with others. Humility for no matter how
much in life I achieve, I am no greater than the ones who need my service. They are the ones who bless me because they allow me to serve them and love them in any way I can.
oLivia shoFner
What does spending time in the service of others mean to you? Personally, I think time is one of the most valuable things we have, so spending that time in service means that you are giving up something that means the most in order to help others. Spending time in service to me means putting the good of others before myself and giving back in gratitude for the things I have been given.
What did you learn from the experience that you would want to share with your fellow students? I would share the impact it has had on my character. I think the more time I spend serving, the more I learn about how to treat people. I would also emphasize that the best way to be a leader is by serving. Servant leadership shows others that you don’t have to lead in a harsh way but rather by demonstrating how
you care for others. Basically, the amount of time you give up for others shows a lot about you and your character.
What does spending time in the service of others mean to you?
Spending time in the service of others is of mutual benefit. Not only are you helping others in the areas they need it most, but community service is one of the most rewarding things one can be part of. Even after high school, when I will no longer log my service hours, I whole-heartedly intend to continue to serve in a variety of ways because it gives my life purpose and shows how the gifts given to me are meant to be shared.
What did you learn from the experience that you would want to share with your fellow students? One thing that I would want to share with others is that it doesn’t matter if the entire world knows you serve, or no one; all that matters is that you have acted in a way that has made a positive contribution to someone or something that needed it. Community service is an extremely fulfilling experience, and even if you have completed your service requirement, I would encourage everyone to continue to serve, because there is always something that could benefit from your service.
What organization/project did you work with the most and how did you get involved with this program? I volunteered with Puppy Haven Rescue, Unity Learning Academy, and Gaining Ground Literacy most often throughout my time at Bishop Kelley.
What does spending time in the service of others mean to you? Spending time helping others is how I feel fulfilled and important in this world. As I am deciding my major in college, I know one thing: I want to work in a position that helps make the world a better place. I could never sit at a desk and crunch numbers all day; I want to get out and serve the disabled, the marginalized, the poor, the homeless, the mentally ill, and the growing children of the world.
What did you learn from the experience that you would want to share with your fellow students? When we think of the poor, we think of the homeless on the side of the road. We need to stop being stuck in our own world looking at the stereotypical poor to see the struggle around us. You can make a difference, so be bold. It will ultimately make you feel happier and more fulfilled.
Have you considered adding Bishop Kelley to your Legacy Giving Plan?
It can be difficult to slow down and consider the impact we are making on our community. Are you confident in your current retirement or estate plan? Is it time to do a check-up and find out what tax saving strategies you might be missing out on? The pen is in your hand. Now is the time to write a new chapter in your story.
The Advancement Group’s Legacy Giving Team can help you design a wholistic and unique Legacy Plan providing steady support for you, your loved ones and the charitable organizations you are most passionate about. Your legacy matters! Take the next step and give TAG’s Legacy Giving Team a call! They will be with you every step of the way as you unlock a brighter future for the charities you wish to support.
3905 South Hudson Avenue
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74135
918.627.3390
bishopkelley.org
AVA GASPAR, Doug Shrout ’66†
ALYSSA GIBBS, Katie Soerries Gibbs ’02, Steve Soerries ’75
NOAH HANISCH, John Hanisch ’87, Mary Ann Nathman Deax ’63
MAGGIE HART, Matt Hart ’89, Toni Gray Hart ’64, Ferrell Hart ’63
MATTHEW LISSAU, Ann Dickson Lissau ’61, Bill Lissau ’61
OWEN ZELLERS, Ryan Heckenkemper Clain ’00, Keith Heckenkemper ’74
cLass oF 2023 Legacy sTudenTs, parenTs & grandparenTs
second generaTion Legacies
SADIE ABRAHAM, Christy Fasano Abraham ’87
JACKSON ARCHAMBEAU, Jason Archambeau ’92, Stephanie Berry Archambeau ’91
STEVEN BACHELOR, Michelle Davis Bachelor ’86
DIA BAILEY, Zac Bailey ’98
PAYTON BEECH, Tresa Green Adams ’95
ALEX BUCKLEY, Teresa Bierig Buckley ’88
EMILY BURKE, Mike Burke ’82
MICHAEL COUCH, Allen Couch ’90†, Kristen Losoncy Couch ’90
DRAKE DAVIDSON, Rod Davidson ’87
CHARLES DEE, Brian Dee ’91, Ronda Kratky Dee ’88
EVAN DINELLI, David Dinelli ’89, Deidre Bisett Dinelli ’89
CAROLINE EPPLE, Heidi Browne Videll ’95
CALEB GILBERT, Anne Cohenour Gilbert ’96, Jodie Gilbert ’96
RAEGAN HARREL, Tiffany Huck Harrel ’94
JACK HAWKINS, Kelly Morgan Hawkins ’88
HAYDEN HECKENKEMPER, Greg Heckenkemper ’84, Shelley Levy Heckenkemper ’88
AUSTIN HIEGER, Nicole Carlson Hieger ’97
SOPHIA KOENIGSKNECHT, Kurt Koenigsknecht ’96
CAMERON LEAKE, James Leake, III, ’89, Regan Farris Leake ’90
JEANNIE LEAKE, John Leake ’92
NICK LESLIE, Jeff Leslie ’98
BEN LIECHTI, Drew Liechti ’93
REAGAN LIECHTI, Kristi Callison Liechti ’93, Matt Liechti ’91
IAN MCKENZIE, Curtis McKenzie ’88
THOMAS MILLER, Sarah Hartmeyer Miller ’89
JUDE NAUMANN, Craig Naumann ’79
NICHOLAS REVELIS, Andrew Revelis, M.D. ’86, Heather Howard Revelis, M.D. ’88
BRADY SCHULTZ, Krystyn McCombs Schultz ’90
CARSON SCHULTZ, Krystyn McCombs Schultz ’90
CAROLINE E. SCOTT Julie Miller Scott ’97
OLIVIA SHOFNER, Rob Shofner ’86
KATE SMITH, Chad Smith ’96
GARRETT SNIDER, Melissa Mailath ’88
ELIZABETH SULLIVAN, David Sullivan ’88
KYLE SUTTON, Jerry Sutton ’91
LAUREN THOMAS, David Thomas ’91†
SOPHIE TRAN, Paul Tran ’92
