Irish Ayes Spring 2009

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$400,000 A Gift From God…

Catholic education is an exceptional gift from God, and your contributions to the Annual Fund ensure the quality of virtually every aspect of school life—from the classrooms to the playing fields to the stage.

Volume XXXVI Number 3 Spring 2009

Faith, Knowledge, Service

2008/09 Annual Fund Goal

Help us build on the record-setting results of last year. Please prayerfully consider giving to Ryan so that today’s students can continue to experience this life-changing gift.

To make your gift, contact the Advancement Office or go online to www.fatherryan.org/giving NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Planting the seeds for a lifetime of service

NASHVILLE, TN Permit No. 22

770 Norwood Drive Nashville, TN 37204 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Becky Young Announces Retirement pg. 1 Athletic Complex Breaks Ground pg. 2 Wrestling and Hockey Win State pg. 7 www.FatherRyan.org Page 22

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Becky Young Retires........................... 1 Groundbreaking.................................. 2 Athletic Signings................................. 5 Band..................................................... 8 Cover Story......................................... 9 Legacy Gala....................................... 14 Alternative Spring Break.................. 16 Class Notes........................................ 17 Wedding/Birth Announcements...... 19 In Memoriam..................................... 20

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Table of Contents

Letters to the Editor Dear Irish Ayes, I lost my mother, Alyce, on March 11, 2009. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my many friends from FRHS who sent personal condolences and visited my family at the funeral home. It is truly a testament of the Ryan community that our bonds remain so solid after all these years.

Sincerely, Christie Downing White ‘89

Board of trustees Executive Committee David Bohan ’66, Chairman Patrick J. Nolan III ’69, Vice-Chairman Rev. Michael O. Johnston ‘63, Secretary-Treasurer David Glascoe, Finance Committee Chair Tommy Bradley ’81, Membership Committee Chair

Committee Chairs William R. Stejskal ’79, Facilities Committee Chair Judy Komisky Orr ’75, Advancement Committee Chair

BOARD MEMBERS Antoine Agassi Rev. Mark Beckman Lori Copeland Chamberlain Judith E. Hoover Steve Janicak Rev. Patrick J. Kibby ’73 Patricia Kyger Kevin J. Marchetti ’73 Philip M. Mattingly Sr. ’69 Robert J. Mendes Stephen P. Mullins ’75 John Siedlecki James Sochovka

Danielle Meyer sports her Irish Pride.The double legacy’s proud parents are Thomas Meyer ‘94 and Amy (Wilson) Meyer ‘94.

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Please send your comments and letters to Irish Ayes to alumni@fatherryan.org

Most Rev. David R. Choby ’65 Rev. David Perkin, V.G. James A. McIntyre Dr. Therese Williams

LIFE TRUSTEES W. Irvin Berry ’46 Thomas G. Connor Sr. ’60 John J. Cunningham Sr. William J. Dunigan William H. Farmer ’65 Edward B. Gore J. Terry Hunter Vincent T. Phillips John C. Shea ’51 William F. Smith Edward A. Stack

IRISH AYES

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Spring 2009, Volume XXXVI Number 3

Irish Ayes is published by Father Ryan High School and is distributed without charge to alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the school.

Send address changes to: Father Ryan High School, Advancement Office • 770 Norwood Drive, Nashville, TN 37204 Phone: 615-269-7926 • E-mail: alumni@fatherryan.org.

Father Ryan High School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Join Us For Reunion Weekend June 5-7, 2009

Classes of ‘49, ‘54, ‘59, ‘64, ‘69, ‘74, ‘79, ‘84, ‘89, ‘94 and ‘99 Father Ryan would like to welcome back all alumni to reconnect and celebrate with former classmates and the Ryan community. This June, we will celebrate our annual reunion weekend, kicking off the festivities with the Alumni Reception, followed by the Lou Graham Alumni Invitational Tournament, class reunion parties and finally, the Golden Grad Mass and Brunch.

Alumni Reception Friday, June 5 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm FRHS Center for the Arts Lou Graham Alumni Invitational Tournament Saturday, June 6 8:00 am Champions Run Golf Club in Rockvale, TN

Class Reunion Parties Saturday, June 6 Times and locations TBA Golden Grad Mass & Brunch Sunday, June 7 10:00 M FRHS Center for the Arts

If it’s your reunion year, be on the lookout for more information in the mail on your class reunion party.

You may also visit our website at www.fatherryan.org/reunions for details.

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MARY FRANCES ANDERSON - Mother of William ‘60, Jerry ‘61 (deceased), Joe ‘63 and Ronald Anderson ‘68 and Linda Hays.

JAMES M. BARR - Father of Tony Barr ‘81 and Andrew Barr ‘83.

WALTER BEVINGTON, JR ‘35 - Father of Mary Ellen and Sally Bevington; brother of Margaret Rich.

BETTY JANE RODGERS - Mother of William, Daniel, Terry and Joe Rodgers and Betty Lou Burnett.

MICHAEL STEPHEN BUSH ‘66 - Brother of Thomas ‘64, Bernard ‘76 (deceased), and Pat Bush ‘76 and Genie Bush Herron.

Becky Young Announces Her Retirement JOSEPH KONOPKO ‘45.

MARY JO DAVIS LEVINE - Sister of Philip Davis ‘46 (deceased), John Davis ‘48 (deceased), Bob Davis ‘50, Jane Manning, Alphonse Davis ‘53, Helen Alexander, Frank Davis, and Sr. Philip Joseph Davis.

WILLIAM “BILL” METZGER - Father of Sue Holzapfel, Anne Clepper, David Metzger ‘72, Mary Ceil Langione ‘75, Danny ‘82 and Don Metzger ‘84.

JOSEPH V. PURCELL - Father of Joe ‘67 (deceased), Mike ‘68, Thomas ‘69 (deceased), Steve ‘71, Lou ‘73, Bill ‘76, Jim ‘78, and Phillip Purcell ‘81, Margaret Hausauer, Lucy Ellis and Regina Purcell (deceased).

FRANK E. BUSH - Husband of Sheila Beazley Bush ‘75.

RUBY C. CECIL - Mother of Thomas ‘59, Chuck ‘68 and Patrick Cecil ‘71 (deceased), Polly Sharkey and Billie James (deceased).

ROBERT F. CHAMBERS - Father of Richard Chambers (faculty).

HENRY MARTIN “MARTY” CLUNAN, JR. ‘64.

VERNA F. COCKERHAM - Mother-in-law of Jinx Cockerham (Faculty).

RUTH MARIE CONQUEST - Mother of Michael ‘65, Stephen ‘69 and Pat Conquest, Sharon Lewis Stoutt, Donna Jo Fleming and Mary Beth Godwin.

THEODOSIA ROSA - Mother of Nick Rosa ‘69, Ada Marie Carden and Theodosia Knighten.

JOHN PATRICK ROWAN ‘52 - Father of Jack McRae, John ‘76, Tim, David ‘82, Michael and Ann Louise Rowan (deceased).

JEAN RYAN SCHNEIDER - Mother of George Schneider ‘71, John Schneider ‘74 and Margaret Sharp.

CLARA SHACKLETT - Mother of Robert Shacklett ‘69, John Shacklett, Peggy Warren ‘76, Mary Ann Shacklett and Tommy Shacklett ‘77.

JOHN “JOCK” CLOVERDALE, JR. ‘67.

GERALD A. “JERRY” SULLIVAN ‘62 - Brother of Bob ‘56, Bill ‘59 and Patrick Sullivan, Nell Brown, Stella Shiber, Mildred Sullivan and Linda Langdon.

PHILLIP W. CUNNINGHAM - Son of Walt Cunningham ‘76.

WALT C. THOMPSON ‘43 - Father of Bill Thompson ‘81.

MARGARET M. FLYNN - Mother of Becky Flynn Frazier and John M. Flynn ‘65.

EMMETT H. WEBB, JR ‘43 - Father of Emmett “Mitch” Webb III ‘67.

MARY FRANCES FORMOSA - Mother of Jimmy ‘62, Charlie ‘64 and Stan Formosa ‘76 (deceased) and Nancy Malone.

ALYCE DOWNING - Mother of Christine White ‘89.

JOSEPH WHITEHEAD, JR. ‘71.

EARL “SONNY” FORTE, JR. ‘52 - Father of Stephen Forte ‘73 and Donna Forte-Tomlinson ‘79.

AUDREY GOULDENER - Mother of John D. Gouldener ‘64, Kathy Kirkham and Joseph E. Gouldener ‘58 (deceased).

THOMAS R. GREEK - Father of Michelle Marshall ‘88, Tommy ‘90, John and James Greek.

FRANCES HAILEY LAWRENCE - Sister of Sr. Betty and Sr. Roseanne Hailey, Lehman Hailey ‘43, James and Robert Hailey. Mother of Joanne Hill, Brenda Meachum, Therese Hoadley ‘72 and Monni Lawrence.

ANITA HOSTETTLER – Wife of Joe Hostettler ‘54 and mother of Joe Hostettler, Jr. ’85 and Mary Lee Todd.

GWENDOLYN SEAY KENT - Mother of Robert Kent ‘74 (faculty), David Kent ‘79, Julie K. Russell ‘81, Jonathan Kent ‘83 and Sandra Foster.

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CINDY WIGGER - Sister of Mark ‘74, Jerry ‘78, Joe ‘81, Phil ‘83 and Dee Wigger, Elaine Eslinger, Rita Eubanks and Paula Gibson ‘77.

JAMES E. WILLIS - Father of Cecilia Willis ‘06.

JAMES R. “Randy” WOLF ‘70.

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eacher. Singer. Actress. Dancer.

Becky Young is a Renaissance woman. If you’re looking for Mrs. Young, you can usually find her in front of the choir, directing the Father Ryan Singers in everything from medieval to contemporary to pop music.You can also find her in the theater or maybe in a classroom.

But if you’re looking for her on her days off, try the dance floor.

That’s right.You may not know it, but she ballroom dances and has for a number of years, even on a competitive level.

the music program and following the move to the Norwood campus she began a choir class. The class has since expanded to three: Beginning Chorus, Mixed Chorus (Father Ryan Singers) and Honors Choir. Her students have performed across the region, including the Middle Tennessee Vocal Association Choral Festival in Murfreesboro and the Heritage Festivals in Atlanta.

Without her influence, you might say you’d hear a little less music at Father Ryan.

Not one to toot her own horn, she is a woman of hidden and not-sohidden talents. She grew up singing with her family around town, in church and in talent shows. In the 1970s, you could hear her voice echoing throughout the Cathedral; she performed as a soloist under the direction of Robert Strobel ‘39 for many years. She studied vocal performance at Carson-Newman College and at Austin Peay State University, where she received a master’s degree in 2000. Today, she continues to sing with the Vanderbilt Community Chorus alongside fellow soprano and Ryan librarian Maureen Schlacter.

“The best aspect of my teaching career has been the people I’ve taught, the students who have inspired me.”

She has been a staple at Father Ryan since 1971, and on her 38th year with the Irish, she announced her retirement, extending a heartfelt good-bye to a prolific career with the school.

She came to Ryan after hearing of an opening in the English department and from there, she expanded her repertoire to classes like German, theater and choir.

Theater and chorus are her only classes these days as a part-time teacher. Since she has been at Ryan, she has seen programs expand and the facilities change. “The [Center for the Arts] facility is pretty amazing,” she says. “We could always use more storage space, but the theater is a great accomplishment.”

The choir is another one of her great accomplishments that, without her, may not exist today. She had wanted to improve

Faith, Knowledge, Service

In Memoriam

“Since I’ve been here, the school has been steadily improving. The quality of faculty is great. It’s been what we’ve wanted it to be—very close-knit.

And it has a sense of continuity with graduates returning to teach.” It’s that family that has prolonged her stay.

That family also included her daughter, Rachel ’96. As if it weren’t awkward enough to share the hallways with your mother, she had her as a teacher in not one, but two classes.

Mrs.Young will tell you it was no big deal, just “different,” but we can only wonder if her daughter felt the same.

“She called me ‘Mom’ in class,” she remembers, with a smile.

Her daughter now lives in Memphis with her husband and two children, working as a labor and delivery nurse.

With her long history at Father Ryan, Mrs.Young will leave behind a lasting impression for which we would like to say thank you. She has served the students, faculty and staff of Father Ryan for nearly 40 years with the energy and grateful smile of someone whose inspiration is derived from the very people she inspires.

“The best aspect of my teaching career has been the people I’ve taught, the students who have inspired me.”

For a woman who wears many hats, don’t think she’ll be hanging them up anytime soon. Her retirement will leave her with the time to devote herself to what she loves: volunteering, reading, gardening and spending time with family. She plans to continue ballroom dancing and hopes to pen a children’s book with her sister. To borrow a phrase from Shakespeare, the world is her oyster.

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Matthan Blue to Mark and Brandy (Hounihan) Brandenburg ‘94, born on December 2, 2008.

The family lives in Frederick, MD.

Yader Odell to Yader and Frances (Leathers) Meza ‘05, born on November 26, 2008. The Mezas live in San Marcos, CA.

Kenneth Jacob to Anne Marie (Anderson) ‘89 and Joby Campbell, born on February 25, 2008.

He joins his 4 year-old brother, C.J.

Jalynn Amanda to Jason Wade McMillan and Michelle Lynn Moore ‘97, born on September 2, 2008.

Riley Wade (bottom left) to Kristin and Brian Corbitt ‘00, born on January 23, 2009. Brian is a Lieutenant on the Toyota Fire Department. The Corbitts live in Georgetown, KY.

Mary Mae Dillon to Catherine (Hite) Pietsch ‘98 and Matt Pietsch ‘97, born on October 21, 2008.

McKenna Claire Huesser to Candace Curran ‘05, born on August 2, 2008.

Samantha Katherine to Kim (King) ‘98 and Daniel Green ‘98, born on February 3, 2009.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Births

Benjamin Gentry to Heidi and Jay Vaiksnoras ‘90, born on June 11, 2008.

Aubrey Elizabeth to Travis and Jenny (Duello) White ‘97, born on May 30, 2008.

Trevi Dyanna (bottom right) to Abby (faculty) and Jared Irvine (faculty), born on January 29, 2009.

Amelia Morgan Williams (top right) to Matt and Rachel (Mondelli) Williams ‘98, born on December 13, 2008.

Patrick Lynch to Lindsey (Lynch) ‘95 and Stuart Magness ‘95, born on March 24, 2009.

Marly Anne (right) to Emily (Stockwell) Yoshino ‘00, born on September 26, 2008.

Photo courtesy of Jim Blackstock ‘96

Father Ryan Breaks Ground on New Athletic Complex

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joined in making this complex a reality. At the front of the line is he skip was brief, but full of expectation and excitement. As Jim Carell ‘54 made his way across the gym floor to make the man who came to me over 16 months ago with a dream for his remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony, Father Ryan. Mr. Carell toured this campus and a standing ovation filling the field house, he came away impressed with our students—with skipped over the mid-court line, saying in one their manners, their curiosity and their dedication Go to simple step that the anticipation is almost over. to this place. He told me that this school is the secret in education and in Nashville. www.fatherryan.org and best-kept Father Ryan broke ground February 11 on And he decided to do something to make it less the Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex, the a secret. That’s the beginning of this exciting click on the webcam to of journey, and I am grateful for his vision school’s first on-campus athletic complex, with Bishop David Choby ‘65, Nashville Mayor Karl follow the progress of and generosity.”

Dean, Mr. Carell and hundreds of students, With the groundbreaking, the school is underway faculty, parents and supporters cheering on the the construction. on the $5.2 million dollar complex, which will ceremony. The ceremony followed an all-school be completed for the school’s athletic schedule Mass celebrated by Bishop Choby and attracted this fall. Mr. McIntyre said that the generosity of an enormous crowd on the wind-swept day to numerous lead donors has resulted in over $4.8 million raised in begin the process that will produce the complex. cash and pledges to date.

Mr. McIntyre saluted the day and the donors to the project.

“Today we send our thanks to many true believers who have

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Weddings Samantha Basel ‘05 and Christian Jandreski were married on June 7, 2008 at St. Philip Catholic Church in Franklin, TN.

Kelsey Nabors ‘03 and Paul Witte ‘03 were married on May 3, 2008 at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Nashville. The couple now lives in Findlay, OH.

Rachel (Derrick) Jones ‘99 and Charles Jones were married on June 17, 2008 in Florida. Rachel, Charles and their daughter, Corlin Jones, live in Hermitage, TN.

Kelly Tessar ‘02 and Will Myers ‘03 were married October 4, 2008 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Nashville.

Jennifer Francescon ‘02 and Daniel Childs were married January 10, 2009 at Christ the King in Nashville.

Jenny Wallace ‘89 and Eddie House were married on April 12, 2008 in Franklin, TN. Jenny works at Universal Music Group Nashville where she’s been for over 14 years, and Eddie is Assistant Chief for Franklin City Fire Department and Williamson County Rescue and Fire. The couple lives in Franklin, TN.

Renee Marie Donnelly and Lt. Stephen Joseph Lawless ‘00 were married September 6, 2008 at the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, MD. The couple is living in Virginia where Renee is a nurse and Joe is stationed at the Pentagon.

Joe Williams ‘02 and Nissa Bishop were married on October 18, 2008 at St. Edward Church. They live in Knoxville, TN.

Katie Lenchis ‘03 married Colin Brooks ‘01 on August 16, 2008.

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‘96

Rachael (Frisbie) Maidens ‘96 recently moved back to Brentwood and has opened RM Orthodontics, a boutique orthodontics practice in the Maryland Farms office park (www.rmorthodontics.com). Rachael has been practicing in Atlanta for the past three years and met husband Randy Maidens there. She is excited to be home again!

Completion Project. When the $2.5 billion project is finished in 2012, Watts Bar Unit 2 (located in Spring City, TN) will provide 1,200 megawatts of power to the TVA system, enough to serve 650,000 homes.

Jeremy lives and works in Knoxville, TN. In his free time, he trains for powerlifting. He competed in the Southern Powerlifting Federation World Championships in October 2008, placing 2nd in his weight class.

‘99

‘03

Jennifer (Waynick) Bogan ‘99 graduated from MTSU in 2005 with a BS in Public Relations. She works for Wilson Bank & Trust in Murfreesboro, TN. Jennifer married Brent Bogan at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on June 2, 2007, with Deacon Hans Toecker officiating. The couple enjoys traveling and is continuing their education.

Brent is pursing a master’s degree at MTSU, and Jennifer is taking exams to obtain an Alternative Teaching license to teach English in grades 7 - 12.

Jamie Castleman ‘99 works with his father at Castleman Drilling and Pump Service, a family-owned company that was started in 1920. He is married with two children, Braxton (16 months old) and Brenley (5 months old).

Kevin Holman ‘99 is in graduate school at the University of San Francisco pursuing a master’s degree in sport management.

Raymond Dunning ‘03 was recently featured in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd” section. He is saluted for his wrestling accomplishments at Adams State. At press time, Raymond was ranked as the nation’s #1 wrestler in Division II in the 141 pound class.

Brittany Thomas ‘03 graduated from Aquinas College in Nashville on December 11, 2008. At graduation she received the St. Catherine of Siena Award, which is presented to a graduate of the School of Nursing. The award is given in recognition of a student’s scholastics, attendance, honesty, and other qualities such as a strong sense of self and leadership abilities.

‘04

‘01

Malea Barron ‘01 recently joined Gish, Sherwood & Friends as an account executive in Nashville. Barron received a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising from the University of Alabama, and she earned her master’s degree in mass communications from MTSU in 2007.

André Dieu ‘01 is stationed in Turkey for a 120-day deployment in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. André, a graduate of the Air Force Academy, pilots the C-17A Globemaster III, a military airlift/ airdrop plane. He has transported over 1.6 million pounds of cargo and 235 passengers.

Jean Malone ‘01 recently wrote a book titled Flamingos, which was published a part of Penguin’s All Aboard Reading series for young readers. As a Level 2 Reader, Flamingos targets children who are able to read with some assistance. Jean works as an assistant catalog librarian for Ingram Book Group’s Library Processing division in Lavergne, TN.

‘02

Brittany Francescon ‘02 teaches at Murrell School in Nashville and was awarded the Nissan Teacher of the Week award by Nissan and radio station 107.5 The River in January 2009.

Tobi J. Holmes ‘02 graduated from Eastern Kentucky University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in nursing, in December of 2008. She passed her boards in order to obtain her license in March of 2009. Tobi is working in the Cardiac Care Unit of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lexington, KY. Jeremy Thompson ‘02 graduated from UT-Knoxville in December 2007 with a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering. In March 2008 he began working for Bechtel Power as a Control Systems Engineer working on TVA Watts Bar Unit 2 Nuclear Plant Construction

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Photo courtesy of Kats Barry

Class Notes

Ben Hayden ‘04 is employed

by Google in Boston, MA, where he is working on software improvements to YouTube. He is engaged to Becky Scholl.

‘05

Matt Morales ‘05 was elevated to Battalion Commander of the University of Tennessee ROTC’s Rocky Top Battalion on April 21, 2009. Battalion Commander is the highest ranking a ROTC cadet can attain. Matt is a Political Science major. He will be commissioned a Second Lieutenant upon graduating from UT-Knoxville next spring.

Sara Wilgenbusch ‘05 has been named to the dean’s list in the University of Notre Dame’s College of Science for outstanding scholarship during the fall 2008 semester. Students who achieve dean’s honors at Notre Dame represent the top 30 percent of students in their college.

‘06 ‘07

Hannah Blatt ‘06 was recently named Student-Athlete of the Month at Vanderbilt University. Hannah plays tennis for Vanderbilt and is majoring in human and organizational development.

Savannah Daigle ‘07 recently played Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga.

Lisa Duke ‘07 was cast in the role of Sasha in Summer Folk, a mainstage show at Columbia University in Chicago, IL.

Visit www.fatherryan.org/alumni to submit class notes

The complex will feature a comprehensive athletic facility, to include:

• A visually striking new

• • • •

stadium, with permanent seating for 2,300 and the latest in field turf design and technology.

A modern track, providing an exceptional venue for runners and an excellent location for major competitions.

A complete renovation of the baseball field with a new backstop and the most current field and equipment technology.

The reorientation and comprehensive renovation of the softball field to create an enhanced setting for players and fans.

Major improvements to the two practice fields.

In addition to providing a center for a wide range of athletic, musical and school functions for Father Ryan, the complex will also provide a place for the entire Catholic community of the diocese to gather.

“The Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex will be a new symbol on this campus, providing a center for celebrating our school and our faith for every (Clockwise from top) Jim Carell ‘54 speaks at the single student, every single Groundbreaking Ceremony; Jim Carell’s grandson, Ben teacher, every parent, every Carell, peers over the model of the Athletic Complex; Fr. alumnus, every friend. And it Philip Breen ‘57 and Fr. Mike Johnston ‘63 celebrate will be a powerful salute to the during the ceremony. thousands of men and women throughout our 84 year history whose digging provided—and continues to provide—a community of true believers committed to this remarkable school and its tradition of faith, knowledge and service,” Mr. McIntyre said.

(Continued pg. 4)

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Class Notes

FR. G’S GIFT FUNDS GIACOSA STADIUM

Fr. Charley Giacosa’s favorite admonition was “hang in there.” It was a reminder of the powers of faith and hope in our lives. So it’s appropriate that one of the long hoped-for parts of the Father Ryan campus will now bear the name of Father G, our own constant beacon of hope.

Father Ryan announced at the Groundbreaking Ceremony that the new stadium will bear Fr. Giacosa’s name, a recognition of his generous gift to the school for the complex and a salute to his message of love and faith. Fr. G’s family, his niece, Charlene, and her husband, Greg Williford, as well as his nephew Anthony LaPagalia, were in attendance to thank the school and Fr. Giacosa for his service and his love.

“On altars throughout the Diocese, in classrooms at Father Ryan and on the national stage with the Cursillo program, Fr. Charley Giacosa left his stamp of concern, compassion and energetic support for God’s work. In honoring Fr. Giacosa with Giacosa Stadium, we’re doing more than celebrating his life; we’re celebrating ‘Father G’ and what he gave us of himself,” said Mr. McIntyre.

Father Giacosa was a former Ryan teacher and beloved priest in the Nashville diocese.

Father “G”, as he was lovingly called, taught at Father Ryan from 1963-70. He also served the Diocese of Nashville as Director of Ministry Formation Services, Director of the Clergy Personnel Board and Director of the Diocesan Permanent Deaconate Program, which he helped to establish.

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“This is a day that has been long-awaited by the entire Father Ryan family,” McIntyre said, “to be topped only by the opening of the complex this fall. I am grateful to our lead donors, the entire Father Ryan community and our Task Force Committee for leading us to this point; and to the City of Oak Hill for their support. While we still have work to do to complete the project and the fundraising, I am confident that will happen.”

Mr. Carell initiated the funding of the athletic complex with a $2 million gift early in 2008. Carell’s gift included a challenge that required Father Ryan’s alumni and friends to contribute $2 million in additional funds, which was attained ahead of schedule. Mr. Carell is president of Achiever Development Corporation, chairman of CareAll Home Care Services and president of CareAll Management, Inc. (From left) President Jim McIntyre, Student Body President Clay Harris ‘09, Principal Paul Davis ‘81, Bishop David Choby ‘65, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, Charlene Williford, Jim Carell ‘54, and Jim Langdon ‘54.

Class Notes Class Notes

‘67

Pat McGee ‘67 continues to work on numerous advertising campaigns. His 30 year career includes a stint as president of the ad agency that created the Ernest character of TV and movie fame. Most recently, he completed a TV, outdoor and Internet campaign featuring YellaFella, the yellow clad cowboy pitching YellaWood pressure treated lumber. This campaign was seen in 14 states throughout the southeast and midwest. Pat and his wife, Phyllis Baltz McGee (St. Bernard ‘67), have two sons, Jeffrey ‘95 and Jonathan (faculty) ‘99.

‘75

Mike Williams ‘75 has been living in St. Louis for the past six years with his wife, Kathleen. His oldest daughter, Alysen Shea, is an LPN at Richland Retirement in Nashville. She and her daughter, Aubrey, live in Pleasant View. His youngest daughter, Tracey Leigh, is engaged to a soon-to-be St. Louis County Police Officer. She works parttime at Target and St. Anthony’s Medical Center and is a full-time student at St. Louis Community College. Her goal is to go to St. Louis University and get her degree in radiology technology. Mike’s family also includes his stepchildren, Erin and Kevin, who are great kids and friends. He hopes to see all his classmates at their next reunion.

‘77

Mark Duff ‘77 is living in Covington,VA, and is a registered nurse at Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital, located in Lexington,VA.

‘79 BECOME A PART OF THE COMPLEX WITH AN ELLISTON PLACE BRICK Mr. Carell has hoped everyone would be able to say, “I helped build this place.” Today, every member of the Father Ryan family has that opportunity to contribute with the purchase of an Elliston Place brick that will be used in the construction of a Jerusalem Search Cross at the crossroads of the Complex.

The opportunity to order your brick or participate in another meaningful way is still available. These bricks are the ones remaining from the original school on Elliston Place and can be inscribed with a salute or memorial.

The opportunity is limited, so reply now. We’ve always said, “if these walls could talk.” Now they can speak your message forever.

For additional information and to see construction progress visit www.fatherryan.org/athletic_complex. To order your brick, go to www.fatherryan.org/bricks.

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Class Notes

Father Ryan Breaks Ground (Continued)

Mark Curran ‘79 is now working at Professional Construction Solutions Inc. along with fellow Ryan alums Joe Derrick ‘79, owner, Tim Mulloy ‘79, senior project manager, and Danny Francescon ‘79, sales.

‘80

Debra (Bowlds) Dunnigan ‘80 is a realtor with Red Realty in Smyrna, TN. The company was number one in commercial sales in Rutherford County in 2008. Debra works with Rutherford, Davidson, Wilson, Williamson and surrounding counties.

‘84

Carol (Horton) Ditmer ‘84 has two grandchildren, Ashlynn Marie, 3 years old, and Elizabeth Ann, 1 year old.

Blake Fontenay ‘84 is the communications director for the Tennessee Secretary of State, Comptroller and Treasurer. He previously worked in the newspaper business for his entire career, including a stint as an editorial board member and political columnist for The Commercial Appeal newspaper in Memphis.

Lillian Q. Jackson ‘84 was recently appointed to the UT-Knoxville Black Alumni Council.

The council was established to serve the AfricanAmerican alumni, the UT community and to promote the University of Tennessee. Lillian will serve as the Event Chairman. The council’s primary purpose is to provide social, professional, and personal developmental programs for more than 6,000 alumni of color. In addition, Lillian continues to serve on the Board of Directors for UT-K’s Atlanta Alumni Chapter, where she has chaired the Coca Cola Big Orange Caravan for three years. She also created a board community service partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for their annual Star94 Radiothon fundraiser.

Greg Parsons ‘84 is a pilot for Allegiant Air based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, flying a MD-80.

Joe Smith ‘84 and his wife, Amy, relocated to Sonoma County, CA, in 2008 with their sons, Benjamin Ryan (age 8) and Ethan Nicholas (age 7).

‘89

Alyssa (Wingo) Phares ‘89 joined the Air Force in 1997, two years after graduating from Belmont University. In 1999 she married Joel Phares. They have two sons, Joel Michael Jr., age 7, and George Robert, age 3. During her time in the Air Force she was stationed in New Jersey during 9/11 and New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. The family moved to Franklin, TN, where she is now a stay-at-home mom and her husband is a cardiologist with The Heart Group.

Doug Couden ‘89, his wife, Holly, and their children, Grace and Ava, are living in San Francisco, CA, where Doug is a Director of Equities Senior Portfolio Manager for SCM Advisors, LLC.

‘91

Keith Alberstadt ‘91 reached a career milestone for comedians when he appeared on Late Show with David Letterman in February 2009.

Kristen (Bendon) Hyman ‘91 recently accepted a position with LeaderShape, Inc., a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to transform the world by increasing the number of people who lead with integrity and a healthy disregard for the impossible. In January, she traveled to Doha, Qatar, to facilitate one of the organization’s programs, The LeaderShape Institute, for college students attending universities in Education City. She and her husband, Jeff, live in Champaign, IL.

‘92

Jim McCann ‘92 has been living his dream of working for Marvel Comics as a writer and consultant for the past four years in New York, NY. He authored New Avengers:The Reunion, which sold out in one day. In April, he returned to Nashville for an appearance at The Great Escape, a local comic book store where he bought his first comics. While in town, Jim also reconnected with several of his classmates for a reunion of his own.

‘94

Kate Loftus Riley ‘94, Montessori Educator of 12 years and a member of the Belmont University Adjunct Montessori Faculty, will serve as the Head of School and lead teacher of Holy Trinity Montessori School enrolling for fall 2009 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Franklin, TN. The school will serve children ages 18 months to 6 years old, offering a toddler as well as a primary classroom and will have half-day and full-day options. It will be the first Christian Montessori school in the Nashville area. Contact Kate at 615-424-4236 or holytrinitymontessori@gmail.com for details.

‘95

David Borum ‘95 and Katherine (Dubose) Borum ‘89 and their two children have relocated back to Nashville from Chicago. David is Assistant Vice President of Special Investigations with Swiss Reinsurance (Swiss Re) Companies of Americas. Kathy is a fulltime mom and enjoys every minute with her family.

Joshua Tenisci ‘95 was promoted to Project Planner for the Medical Equipment Planning Consulting Firm of Gene Burton & Associates. He has called Dallas, TX, his home since 2003.

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f it was a concern, both Sean Conway and Courtney Rymer don’t have to worry about it anymore.They will continue to attend school together next year, continuing a long tradition since elementary school at St. Henry. In January, surrounded by family and classmates, they each signed their National Letter of Intent to play athletics at Western Kentucky University, home of the Hilltoppers. Conway will play football; Rymer will play soccer.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Students Sign National Letter of Intent for Western Kentucky University

Conway, an all-state offensive lineman, was a two-year starter for the Irish football team. Last season, he played in the Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic, featuring the top players in the state. He committed to Western Kentucky in November. Rymer was a four-year starter for the girls’ soccer team, playing midfielder, and was co-captain of last season’s 2008 state championship team.

Sean Conway and Courtney Rymer sign their National Letters of Intent.

Students Turn Spring Break into Housebuilding Each year, hundreds of students across the country redefine Spring Break, sacrificing a week of sun tanning and beach lounging for something more labor intensive and gratifying. This past March, 12 Father Ryan students embarked on a trip to Johns Island, South Carolina to work with the Sea Island Habitat for Humanity (SIHH).

The concept of an “alternative spring break” is not new to Father Ryan, but its popularity is growing.

“The alternative spring break gives our students more opportunities to carry out our mission of service in a community outside of their own,” said Tim Forbes, Dean of Student Life and Campus Ministry.

“The alternative spring break gives our students more opportunities to carry out our mission of service and in a community outside of their own.”

Despite the beachy scenery, the six-day trip was far from a vacation. Students worked alongside other volunteers from

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8:00 am to 4:00 pm, laying foundations, digging footers and hanging drywall. “These students worked nearly 35 hours of hard labor,” says Forbes, who accompanied the students on the trip. On the final day, the group enjoyed a brief respite at the beach—a bit chilly, according to Forbes, but still fun.

Conway and Rymer join two more Ryan athletes who have committed to playing college athletics next year.

Brendan Connolly will play basketball at Princeton University and Carolyn Caire will play tennis at the University of Evansville.

Saturday June 6, 2009 • 8:00 a.m.

Champions run Golf Club Reunion Weekend Visit www.fatherryan.org/alumni to learn how to register

This year marks the 30th anniversary for the Habitat for Humanity affiliate, the third oldest affiliate in the nation. In celebration, SIHH pledged to build 30 houses by 2009 and actually exceeded its goal by building 33 homes. These houses have helped re-establish the community after the devastation of Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Last year, Father Ryan traveled to Abbeville, Louisiana to rebuild in another area devastated by hurricanes.

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season that began with hope turned into one filled with promise and ended with unexpected success as an exciting stretch run took the Irish to the state championship game for the 2008-09 basketball season.

Led by seniors Brendan Connolly, Mark Mulloy and Gerald Saltkill, the team jelled after Christmas and went on a tear through the last part of the regular season, winning 10 straight games to get to the title game. In the process they knocked off Ensworth 51-49 at their gym in an exciting Regional Championship game, playing without an injured Mulloy and with Connolly, who’ll be playing for Princeton in the fall, scoring 38 and gathering in 16 rebounds. After dispatching Memphis’s Briarcrest in the State semis, Father Ryan faced Ensworth again for the title but fell behind early and was unable to mount a charge, falling 66-41.

The varsity basketball team celebrates its 2nd place finish at State.

These two individuals were involved in music and entertainment and thought that the time was right for Ryan to salute its alumni in a major way. The first Gala welcomed 306 attendees, honored long-time Ryan Registrar Alice Gentry and raised over $8,500 for the school. From those beginnings the event has grown substantially, becoming the school’s largest annual fundraiser, raising over $100,000 last year and celebrating the achievements of the entire Father Ryan family.

Photo By Mike Gomez ‘85

Boys Basketball Team Runners-Up at State Championship

The celebration looked back and looked forward throughout the evening. The program of events focused on today’s school with a variety of auction items and events designed to raise funds for the school’s programs.

But it also reflected on the origins of the Legacy Gala itself and the work of parents and alumni like Danny Davis and Jerry Glaser ’50 in bringing it to reality.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

History of the Legacy Gala

Memories from the first Gala: Jerry Glaser ‘50, chair, Ms. Alice Gentry, honoree, and Danny Davis, entertainer,Ryan parent and co-founder, with Glaser, of the event.

However, the runner-up crown fit well on a team that had not been to the title game recently, and proved testament to a dedicated crew of players and coaches who turned basketball hopes into triumphs throughout the season.

Swimming & Diving Team Finishes 10th at State Championship T

he word “team” is an understatement for this year’s Irish swimmers and divers. Following the mid-season car crash involving team member, Brittany Leedham, the Irish banded together and carried out one of their most successful seasons to date, setting two team records.

They dedicated the McCallie Invitational to “Swim for Brittany,” writing messages on each other’s arms and backs.

Bishop David Choby ‘65 peruses items at the Silent Auction.

Jeremy ‘93 and Jennifer Bisceglia browse the Silent Auction room.

Legacy Gala chairs, Cathy and Walt Wasyliw.

Gala attendees give standing ovation to Jim Carell ‘54

The team finished in 3rd place at the Region Championships, with an amazing 95 percent of the Irish swimming their best times of the season.

The men’s team placed 4th, led by senior captain William Varley, and the women’s team finished 6th behind freshman Sara Menke.The men’s 200 freestyle relay team with Madison Wenzler, Drew Alessio, Harrison Daigle and William Varley crushed the 2003 record with a time of 1:29:58. A total of seven Ryan swimmers made the All Region team.

Twenty swimmers qualified for the state championship at the University of Tennessee, finishing in 10th place among 116 competing teams and The 2008 - 2009 swimming & diving team finishes nearly 900 athletes.The men’s 200 freestyle relay team won 9th place and 10th among 116 teams at State. tied the team record set at the Region Championships. Madison Wenzler placed 6th in 50 freestyle and 7th in 100 freestyle.The team set their second record of the season with Rachel Deutsch placing in the 50 free consolation finals, breaking the school’s record set in 2000.

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Father Ryan Athletics

Photo courtesy of Michael Gomez ‘85

The Carells Legacy Gala Honorees

Ryan Wins 17th State Wrestling Title T

he Irish wrestlers winning a state championship title for the second year in a row was a pleasant surprise to everyone but the team.

After long-time rival Baylor trumped Ryan in the Dual Wrestling State Championship 46-15, the Irish wanted payback. They certainly got it.

Returning with a vengeance, Ryan beat Baylor 253 to 235 and claimed their title.

‘69 and Bubba Donnelly Dr. Kent Kyger, y Gala. ac eg L arrive at the Chris Donnelly

The evening spotlight shined brightest on the Carells and their generosity. Here’s an excerpt from the program profile.

Stand-out team members included co-captains Cody Austell and Patrick Marchetti, each earning a state championship title in their respective weight class. Junior Wes Wesley won his second championship in familiar fashion by defeating the Baylor wrestler in the finals after losing to him in the finals of the dual tournament; he did the same thing last year. Cole Moseley also earned honors as the first Ryan freshman to ever win a state championship.

In all, 13 of Ryan’s wrestlers received a medal.

“I want to help.”

They are truly simple words, uttered in a variety of moments with varying degrees of intent by just about every one of us.

But when one hears those four words from Jim Carell and his wife, Jan, the meaning is unmistakable, the energy is palpable and the generosity is heartfelt. Most important, wonderful things start happening.

It was almost 16 months ago that Father Ryan heard those words, and since that time the Carells have been committed to bringing the Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex to reality. But as it takes shape on our campus, he reminds us that it wasn’t athletics that drove him to support the school­—it was, and is, the students who welcomed him without even knowing who he was, who demonstrated their character and who reminded him of what a Father Ryan student has always represented. His own high school experience and the Carells’ desire for Father Ryan to be able to continue to serve the entire Catholic community of the Diocese in its distinctive way are what fuel the Carells’ enthusiasm.

President Jim M cIntyre congratula tes Legacy Gala Honoree, Jim Carell ‘54.

Looking Back 30 Years

Marty Blair auctions off a Vespa during the live auction.

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ver 500 friends, parents, alumni and family of the Father Ryan community gathered April 4th in Nashville to salute the school and its 2009 Honorees, Jim and Jan Carell at the 30th Annual Legacy Gala. In the process they raised over $132,000 for Ryan in an evening of fellowship and celebration.

The Legacy Gala, established in 1979, honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional support for the school’s mission and the advancement of Catholic education. Mr. McIntyre said that the 30th Legacy Gala in 2009 salutes two individuals whose commitment to the school has made a major impact both on the campus and in the community.

“The Carells’ extraordinary commitment to supporting the Father Ryan mission will give our students, alumni and friends opportunities for a more enhanced learning experience and a central venue for the entire community to enjoy. The Carells’ gift has turned a long-time dream into reality, and we are proud to honor them at our Gala,” Mr. McIntyre said.

The Carells believe that “money isn’t worth anything if you can’t share it,” and this belief guides their philanthropy and helps shape our community.

The wrestling team shows off its 2009 State Championship trophy.

This year’s win marks the 17th state championship for Irish wrestling, including six in duals and 11 in individual tournaments, in the 40th anniversary year of their first championship title.

Hockey Team Earns First State Championship I

t was an amazing season that rivals that of the Nashville Predators. The Father Ryan hockey team won its first state championship, beating the two-time defending state champs JPII Knights. Coming off a successful regular season, the Irish entered the Predator’s Cup Semi-Finals as Nashville’s top seed. They faced the Knoxville Warriors, who took a two-goal lead in the first period before Ryan came back and defeated them 5-3.

The championship game was a tight contest for the Irish through two periods. Although the Knights outshot Ryan 12-4 in the first period, the Irish came back with strong play by goalie John Vorholt and a goal by Matt Neal. Neal scored again in the second period and Andrew Mueller added another. In the third period, the Knights scored but a skilled defense prevented them from getting any closer. Mueller finished up the game with a goal, securing a 4-1 Irish victory.

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The hockey team smiles in celebration of its State Championship win against JPII. The NHL’s Nashville Predators honored Father Ryan as the 2009 Preds Cup Champions during intermission at their March 28 game against the Los Angeles Kings. The team was also honored at the Predator’s Luncheon by the Comcast Sports Spotlight Speaker Series in October, and the seniors received honors at the Comcast Spotlight on Sports Luncheon in December.

www.FatherRyan.org 7 Mary Parker and Kevin McHale pose for a photograph.

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Band Travels F

Cross Country, Dominates Competition

ather Ryan may need to build more trophy cases following the continual success of its band program. The band has won nearly a half dozen trophies so far this year and they show no signs of stopping. With this year’s accomplishments, the Father Ryan Band has proven they are a force to be reckoned with.

The Marching Band alone has received honors in five competitions, proving they are one of the best bands in the country. During Homecoming this year, the Marching Band and Color Guard showcased their aerobics-themed performance, a routine accompanied by sweat suits, brightly-colored spandex and treadmills.

Later that fall, they took their performance on the road to several competitions.

They were named Grand Champion for the second year in a row at the Travelers Rest Marching Invitational at Overton High School. Nationally, the band dominated competition as Grand Champions in their class in the Bands of America Regional Citrus Bowl in Orlando and in the American Regional in Indianapolis. They also received 2nd place in their class at the Bands of America Grand Nationals, placing 31st in the country among 500 competing bands.

During the Music City Invitational this year, the band made historical achievements by winning the Mayor’s Cup for the 7th time in the last 10 years and 8th time overall. The Drumline also won the Roll-off Challenge Cup for the 10th straight year, more than anyone in the history of the contest.

The Marching Band performs during the 2008 football season.

Not to be outdone, the Winter Guard has also performed exceptionally well this year. They recently finished second in the Winter Guard International World Championships, topping high schools and colleges, such as Penn State, in the independent category. They also won first place in March at Independence High School, the first time in over a decade that they have competed.They scored a 91 in their class, 30 points ahead of the runners-up.

The Father Ryan Band has plenty to be proud of this year. In addition to their numerous competition awards, a total of 14 band members were recognized by the All-State and Mid-State organizations this year.

In February, they earned a well-deserved vacation, traveling to New Orleans where they participated in a clinic at Loyola University and then embarked on a cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. The vacation was short-lived and, characteristic of these hardworking and dedicated students, they jumped back into rehearsals, practicing for more competitions across the country. Despite the hectic schedule, the band members remain energetic, humble and grateful, always managing to squeeze in some time to play for their biggest fans at home.

Band Day Is Music To Parochial Schools Band students from local parochial schools were invited to Father Ryan in March to participate in the 10th Annual Band Day. These students, in grades 6-8, enjoyed a day of band practice, lunch and a performance under the instruction of professional band directors. They also received door prizes provided by Music and Arts, Fork’s Drum Closet and Thomas Tours. Students were represented from Holy Rosary, St. Edward, St. Henry, St. Matthew, St. Bernard and Christ the King schools. Expect to hear many of these musicians marching on Ryan’s field in the next couple of years.

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introduced the Search program, sharing an influential experience in his own life.

If you’ve ever met Tim Forbes ‘93, you’ll notice he asks this question frequently, not in the casual or obligatory sense, but with an unmistakable sincerity.Yes, it may be an ordinary question, but to him, it is an effective tool he uses to serve his students. As Dean of Student Life and Campus Ministry at Father Ryan, he stays busy serving hundreds of students, but is never too busy to set aside time for any of them. There’s no doubt he knows the faces of each and every one—and most likely those of their families, too.

In his three years at Ryan, he has become a sounding board for the student body. He can rarely be found in his office; usually, he’s in the hallways talking, laughing and most importantly, listening to students. Using their suggestions, he has continued to build upon campus ministry programs by matching them to student interests while serving their needs.

This past January, he accompanied students to Washington, D.C., to participate in the March for Life, where they met with Tennessee legislators over Roe v.Wade. The trip has grown since its beginning several years ago and now averages 46 students each year. Ever the pioneer, he has even initiated a few of his own programs, like class retreats and alternative spring breaks. This year’s alternative spring break trip took 12 students to Johns Island, South Carolina, to work with Habitat for Humanity (see p. 16).

Service has always played a prominent role in his life. Following college graduation, he spent time in Boston working with the Trinitarians, a religious order. Shortly after, he served in campus ministry at a high school and parish in Charleston, SC where he

Parochial school students participate in Band Day.

Nevertheless, the call back to Nashville grew stronger and so he returned, excited with the opportunity to serve in a familiar Catholic community near his family.

While talking with him, it becomes obvious he’s in his element: interacting with young people in an environment that’s mission is service. He’s also in the same hallways he used to walk through, working among the very people who taught and influenced him.

The relationship dynamics with those faculty and staff members may have changed, but it doesn’t stop him from walking down memory lane. He was involved in plenty while at Ryan—sports editor for the Moina, and member of the basketball team and Student Council among others.

Mentioned often in conversation is Principal Paul Davis who, at the time, was a teacher, basketball coach and Student Council moderator—or, in other words, present in nearly every activity in which Tim participated. And if there were some comical antics back in the day, Tim’s not sharing.

“I receive more blessings than I could possibly ever give.”

While it may seem his job is just a series of trips, he is dedicated and serious about his ministry, characteristics he has had since his school days at Ryan only 16 years ago. “I was called by God to come back to Ryan. This was an opportunity to serve in a community I’m familiar with and to serve in a community that I love.”

Band members pose aboard a cruise ship to Mexico.

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“How are you?” It’s a simple question we hear every day, a casual greeting that elicits a variety of responses.

Consumed in our busy lives, we often ask it without ever waiting for a response.

However, this simple phrase holds a powerful message that is the basis of service.

Cover Story

Tim Forbes ‘93

His heavy involvement in school activities is hardly a far cry from his life today. Along with service trips to D.C. and South Carolina, he and his students are also involved with local projects. Two years ago, he helped establish Ash Wednesday as a day of service from a suggestion by the 2007 senior class. On that day, students volunteer at sites around the city as a way of demonstrating the messages of Lent. Past sites have included Paragon Mills, Fannie Battle, Ronald McDonald House and many more.

He, too, recognizes the magnitude of his ministry. “I receive more blessings than I could possibly ever give.” He’s hesitant to take the credit, but his consideration for others makes service fundamental in his life. “My next goal is to outreach to more faculty and staff.

They make each student feel like the most important. My favorite moments are witnessing the community’s love and care for the students—from the top down. They genuinely care for these students. I want to feed the shepherds who feed our sheep.”

So next time you see Tim Forbes, stop and talk with him. He’ll probably ask how you are. And before your conversation is over, he’ll most likely ask about your parents, your sisters and brothers and your children, too. We guarantee you’ll walk away feeling a little bit better, knowing someone cared enough to ask.

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We read about them in newspapers and magazines.

We see them on TV. Our military—the men and women who serve our country—are actively defending us at home and abroad. They are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, relatives. And despite the media coverage, we still don’t fully grasp their capacity to serve here or on the other side of the world. With two U.S. wars, what’s really happening over there? Ask Major Aaron Adams ‘91. He’s served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

and manning flight schedules. He’s traveled all over the world, including to Jerusalem.

He earned the rank of major in 2006 and recently earned the qualification of White House Helicopter Aircraft Commander (HAC), where he has trained new pilots, one of the best things about being a HAC, he says. During the recent Bush administration, he was co-pilot of Marine One, the Marine equivalent to Air Force One, and had the privilege of flying former President George W. Bush. Soon he will be flying Marine Two for Vice President Joe Biden as aircraft commander.

As a man from a military family, Major Adams transitioned easily into the United States Marine Corps. His father served in the Air Force and his uncle served in the Marines. And as anybody in the military would tell you, there’s a subtle—or not so subtle, depending on whom you ask—rivalry between branches. “The difference between the Marines and the Navy is that there’s more discipline with the Marines,” he says with a grin.

PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

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ervice. This word encompasses a common theme among the Father Ryan family, a principle evident in the classrooms, on the playing fields and stage—one that is echoed in the hallways and manifests itself in the core of the school’s mission.

It is not surprising that we present a few alumni they represent this distinctive Ryan tradition; who, like many alums, have taken this principle beyond the Father Ryan campus

Cover Story

Major Aaron Adams ‘91

where it was nurtured and have dedicated their lives to service, demonstrating extraordinary stewardship both locally and abroad. These are people who turn something seemingly ordinary into something remarkable, people like Charles Strobel ‘61, Melissa Poe ‘98, Major Aaron Adams ‘91, and Tim Forbes ‘93. Although they serve in different capacities, each exemplifies service, sowing the seeds for future generations of Ryan grads to make a difference in their own communities.

When not deployed, he lives with his wife and eight year-old daughter, Schuyler, in Quantico, Virginia where he has been for two years. Prior to Virginia, he worked for nine years at Camp LeJeune in North Carolina. Every so often, he returns to Nashville to visit family, friends, former classmates and even former teachers. Although it was a school holiday and heavy snow threatened to close the roads this past January, he trekked to campus anyway to visit one of his favorites, Mr. Richard Chambers.

“I have faith that good will prevail me.”

That discipline may have served him well during his deployments to the other side of the world.

He spent three and a half months in Afghanistan in 2004 and nearly a year in Iraq in 2005. He also spent six months in the Republic of Djibouti, a small country in the Horn of Africa bordering Somalia, where he was involved in counter-terrorism, humanitarian efforts and “winning hearts and minds.”

Among the most poignant moments of his time overseas was in Iraq during the first elections. He describes the experience as something you “don’t see on the news,” a fulfilling moment, one that justified his years of training and time away from his family.

He has been involved in the military since his graduation from Father Ryan, after which he attended the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He spent two years in Pensacola for pilot training, preparation that included basic flight instruction and surprisingly, swimming. The training primed him for the CH53 helicopter, an intimidating iron beast that can carry over 40 passengers and several tons of cargo. Among his duties since joining the Marines have been flying helicopters, training new pilots

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His was the last class to graduate from the Elliston Place Campus, where he played football, soccer, was a member of the National Honor Society and a Eucharistic Minister. Although he graduated almost 18 years ago, Father Ryan’s influence has not left him. His high school years have taught him it’s the necessity of faith even in the most dismal situations. “I have faith that good will prevail me.” Perhaps it’s appropriate that the motto of the Marine Corps is “Semper Fi”, short for Semper Fidelis, meaning “always faithful.” It’s a motto that dates back centuries ago but whose significance still resonates with millions.

Despite the negativity surrounding the wars, Major Adams sees the positive, that maybe the recent Bush administration did right, after all. A touchy subject and a bit premature, but perhaps there is a light at the end of the tunnel. “I want to let people know that we’re making a difference.”

For now, he will continue his Marine duties but hopes to work at the Pentagon in the near future. His priorities remain the same: taking care of his family and serving his country. Seemingly ordinary, yet remarkable.

Pictured left to right: Strobel bringing hope to the homeless; Hood with son, James; Major Adams with regular passenger, President George W. Bush; Forbes distributes ashes to students on Ash Wednesday.

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Take two pieces of bread, a slather of creamy peanut butter and whatever jelly you might have on hand. In some hands, that’s nothing more than a PB&J, the classic sandwich that’s stuck to more mouth roofs than any food created. But for Charles Strobel ‘61, that PB&J isn’t just a sandwich. It’s one of the most powerful instruments of human rights and social justice, and his career of service is proof.

“Growing up in a family that was always serving others, it was just logical for me to see service as part of living.

Father Ryan gave me more outlets to participate. Fr. Jim Zralek invited me to help him at the Sugar Shack, a place on Charlotte Avenue near the Capitol where Fr. Zralek was working with alcoholics. I started helping him and became keenly aware of the needs of a large segment of our population who were overlooked and underserved. In fact, in many ways they were shunned.”

As a child growing up in North Nashville in the shadows of Assumption Parish and School, which he attended, and through his years at Father Ryan High School, he developed an understanding for the ravages of poverty and a heart for serving the forgotten and impoverished. When he became a priest in 1970, he was eager to work in parishes and parts of the city where poverty was the norm.

Justice is a word you hear a lot from him.

For he believes that the basic principles of justice are rooted in the moral teachings of the Church—of God’s preferential option for the poor. “Eighty percent of the world’s population doesn’t live as the other twenty percent do. There isn’t equal access to healthcare or housing; there isn’t universal respect for human rights. The job is large and long-lasting, but it is one worth doing. And the commitment of Father Ryan to develop students and people to be living examples of the Gospels is evidence that the job can be done.”

“Never underestimate the power of a peanut butter sandwich.”

“Never underestimate the power of a peanut butter sandwich,” he says with that unmistakable smile that has been the light of hope for many of the most disenfranchised and marginalized members of our society. The PB&J formed the basis for what would become the Room in the Inn and the countless ways that Strobel has involved himself in the simplest gifts of service and compassion. It was the sandwich of choice—actually, the only sandwich—that he and his staff handed out to the men and women who would knock on the doors of the rectory at Holy Name Church where he served as pastor.

“They were hungry and a sandwich seems so simple, but it provided such relief. “Then we looked out at our parking lot on a cold winter night and saw numerous people huddled together to stay warm.

Here I was on the inside, warm and fed. On our campus was a gym, warm and unused. Those folks were cold and forgotten. It was so logical to open the doors and invite them in. And they came.”

That was late 1985. A year later, Room in the Inn was established by Strobel, involving four area congregations in providing shelter and food to men, women and families who would become known as the homeless in Nashville. Today, over 150 congregations participate in the program each winter, making it the largest congregational-led program for the homeless in the country, and a model for similar programs throughout the country. The origins for that lifelong commitment to service were all rooted in his Catholic community and the people who helped him.

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Strobel will tell you that his family upbringing and the teaching and examples at Ryan really formed his path of service. He points to his pride—and Ryan’s—in the school’s immediate decision to desegregate after the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. “Father Ryan always provided a quality education, but one of its greatest strengths is that it has provided that Christian education in a diverse environment of students and teachers who represent the entire city. Ryan broadened my world view and encouraged my commitment to a life of service by grounding my intuitions in a solid theological framework.”

His passion for service has not faltered—through the hardships of an unequal world, the systematized injustice of this world, even the murder of his mother, a tireless community volunteer who was killed in Nashville while on one of her volunteer missions. “Momma’s favorite song was ‘He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.’ It reminded us of God’s love and care for every one of us, and the responsibility we have to take care of each other. As painful as her murder was for us all, it shed light on her life and the life of so many quiet volunteers who are committed to service just by living. That’s why I remind folks that no matter how simple the act, the influence can be powerful.”

The commitment to service remains for Charles Strobel. You can hear him say, “never underestimate the power of your circle of influence.” And you know the magic of a PB&J is at work.

Melissa Poe Hood ‘98 You may already be familiar with Melissa Poe Hood ‘98.

At nine years of age, she launched one of the largest youth organizations in the country, initiating a media frenzy, appearing in countless newspapers and magazines.

She hadn’t even reached adulthood before becoming a CEO (Child Executive Officer, that is) and the face and voice of environmental awareness.

Council to cross country. She never forgot her Ryan service experiences, those which she has kept with her since graduation. Since then, she has expanded her service experience into several arenas, including politics.

She worked as staff assistant to Congressman Bob Clement in his D.C. office, where she fielded calls and letters, helping him address the needs of those he serves. Later, she returned to a familiar platform and began work at the Nature Conservancy in D.C., an organization whose basic mission is to protect nature and preserve life.

She’s even worked for FEMA in Orlando, helping bridge the communication between the main office and surrounding counties during a time when the government agency received its biggest backlash: Hurricane Katrina.

Staying true to her environmental roots, she also began her own environmental design company that produces ads and customized print design.

“I watched this show called Highway to Heaven, and its message was that if you don’t start paying attention to the things you do, the future may be less clean and less safe. There was a lot of truth behind it.”

The show was the catalyst for her campaign, and with that inspiration she wrote a letter to former President George H.W. Bush, outlining the importance of stopping pollution and protecting our resources. She also called local media and before long, she was receiving national attention.

With support from schoolmates, she began Kids For A Clean Environment (Kids F.A.C.E.) and publicized its message on billboards across the country. The message impacted thousands, including NBC producers in New York City, who invited her to The Today Show. In a short amount of time, her organization grew from six members to 300,000, with branches all over the country.

Cover Story

Charles Strobel ‘61

“Every single day, She has missed Nashville’s friendly people— inviting culture brought her back to Music we have opportunities the City only a few short months ago. Naturally, she presented. They may has already jumped into local service projects like the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center not be glamorous, and Nashville’s Earth Day on April 18.Where she goes, she remains conscious of the but they have the ever needs of our community, and that understanding has helped fuel a desire to serve, even in the potential to be smallest respects. amazing.”

“Every single day, we have opportunities

Whatever happened to this child prodigy? Well, like all kids, she grew up. She’s now married with a 20-month old son, James, but she still has the same childhood dream: to help and protect the future for herself and for others. She continues to draw upon that dream that began almost twenty years ago.

Despite her young age, she recognized the steps needed for her initiative. “Start small, step by step.You can’t look to your government to fix everything.” Today, she is still involved with Kids F.A.C.E., but on a smaller scale. After all, she has baby James to think about, and she plans on raising him with the same principles she inherited.

Of course, she developed many of those principles while at Father Ryan, where she excelled in a laundry list of clubs from Student

presented. They may not be glamorous, but they have the potential to be amazing.” She can easily attest to the success achieved just by seizing the day. “Everyone comes across a variety of decisions, and you never know what those decisions will lead you to. I began with a seed of an idea.”

She serves as a model of determination, one whose message is not lost in her humility. Her experience, she says, was the result of unique circumstances such as her young age and the political atmosphere at the time.Years later, her passion to serve has not faded.

“Your goals must be realistic,” she advocates. Her goal is a surprisingly simple one: to be featured on The Today Show during Willard Scott’s centenarian birthday tribute. Having dedicated nearly two decades serving in organizations that focus on protecting our planet forever, her goal sounds appropriate to us.

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Take two pieces of bread, a slather of creamy peanut butter and whatever jelly you might have on hand. In some hands, that’s nothing more than a PB&J, the classic sandwich that’s stuck to more mouth roofs than any food created. But for Charles Strobel ‘61, that PB&J isn’t just a sandwich. It’s one of the most powerful instruments of human rights and social justice, and his career of service is proof.

“Growing up in a family that was always serving others, it was just logical for me to see service as part of living.

Father Ryan gave me more outlets to participate. Fr. Jim Zralek invited me to help him at the Sugar Shack, a place on Charlotte Avenue near the Capitol where Fr. Zralek was working with alcoholics. I started helping him and became keenly aware of the needs of a large segment of our population who were overlooked and underserved. In fact, in many ways they were shunned.”

As a child growing up in North Nashville in the shadows of Assumption Parish and School, which he attended, and through his years at Father Ryan High School, he developed an understanding for the ravages of poverty and a heart for serving the forgotten and impoverished. When he became a priest in 1970, he was eager to work in parishes and parts of the city where poverty was the norm.

Justice is a word you hear a lot from him.

For he believes that the basic principles of justice are rooted in the moral teachings of the Church—of God’s preferential option for the poor. “Eighty percent of the world’s population doesn’t live as the other twenty percent do. There isn’t equal access to healthcare or housing; there isn’t universal respect for human rights. The job is large and long-lasting, but it is one worth doing. And the commitment of Father Ryan to develop students and people to be living examples of the Gospels is evidence that the job can be done.”

“Never underestimate the power of a peanut butter sandwich.”

“Never underestimate the power of a peanut butter sandwich,” he says with that unmistakable smile that has been the light of hope for many of the most disenfranchised and marginalized members of our society. The PB&J formed the basis for what would become the Room in the Inn and the countless ways that Strobel has involved himself in the simplest gifts of service and compassion. It was the sandwich of choice—actually, the only sandwich—that he and his staff handed out to the men and women who would knock on the doors of the rectory at Holy Name Church where he served as pastor.

“They were hungry and a sandwich seems so simple, but it provided such relief. “Then we looked out at our parking lot on a cold winter night and saw numerous people huddled together to stay warm.

Here I was on the inside, warm and fed. On our campus was a gym, warm and unused. Those folks were cold and forgotten. It was so logical to open the doors and invite them in. And they came.”

That was late 1985. A year later, Room in the Inn was established by Strobel, involving four area congregations in providing shelter and food to men, women and families who would become known as the homeless in Nashville. Today, over 150 congregations participate in the program each winter, making it the largest congregational-led program for the homeless in the country, and a model for similar programs throughout the country. The origins for that lifelong commitment to service were all rooted in his Catholic community and the people who helped him.

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Strobel will tell you that his family upbringing and the teaching and examples at Ryan really formed his path of service. He points to his pride—and Ryan’s—in the school’s immediate decision to desegregate after the Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. “Father Ryan always provided a quality education, but one of its greatest strengths is that it has provided that Christian education in a diverse environment of students and teachers who represent the entire city. Ryan broadened my world view and encouraged my commitment to a life of service by grounding my intuitions in a solid theological framework.”

His passion for service has not faltered—through the hardships of an unequal world, the systematized injustice of this world, even the murder of his mother, a tireless community volunteer who was killed in Nashville while on one of her volunteer missions. “Momma’s favorite song was ‘He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.’ It reminded us of God’s love and care for every one of us, and the responsibility we have to take care of each other. As painful as her murder was for us all, it shed light on her life and the life of so many quiet volunteers who are committed to service just by living. That’s why I remind folks that no matter how simple the act, the influence can be powerful.”

The commitment to service remains for Charles Strobel. You can hear him say, “never underestimate the power of your circle of influence.” And you know the magic of a PB&J is at work.

Melissa Poe Hood ‘98 You may already be familiar with Melissa Poe Hood ‘98.

At nine years of age, she launched one of the largest youth organizations in the country, initiating a media frenzy, appearing in countless newspapers and magazines.

She hadn’t even reached adulthood before becoming a CEO (Child Executive Officer, that is) and the face and voice of environmental awareness.

Council to cross country. She never forgot her Ryan service experiences, those which she has kept with her since graduation. Since then, she has expanded her service experience into several arenas, including politics.

She worked as staff assistant to Congressman Bob Clement in his D.C. office, where she fielded calls and letters, helping him address the needs of those he serves. Later, she returned to a familiar platform and began work at the Nature Conservancy in D.C., an organization whose basic mission is to protect nature and preserve life.

She’s even worked for FEMA in Orlando, helping bridge the communication between the main office and surrounding counties during a time when the government agency received its biggest backlash: Hurricane Katrina.

Staying true to her environmental roots, she also began her own environmental design company that produces ads and customized print design.

“I watched this show called Highway to Heaven, and its message was that if you don’t start paying attention to the things you do, the future may be less clean and less safe. There was a lot of truth behind it.”

The show was the catalyst for her campaign, and with that inspiration she wrote a letter to former President George H.W. Bush, outlining the importance of stopping pollution and protecting our resources. She also called local media and before long, she was receiving national attention.

With support from schoolmates, she began Kids For A Clean Environment (Kids F.A.C.E.) and publicized its message on billboards across the country. The message impacted thousands, including NBC producers in New York City, who invited her to The Today Show. In a short amount of time, her organization grew from six members to 300,000, with branches all over the country.

Cover Story

Charles Strobel ‘61

“Every single day, She has missed Nashville’s friendly people— inviting culture brought her back to Music we have opportunities the City only a few short months ago. Naturally, she presented. They may has already jumped into local service projects like the Williamson County Child Advocacy Center not be glamorous, and Nashville’s Earth Day on April 18.Where she goes, she remains conscious of the but they have the ever needs of our community, and that understanding has helped fuel a desire to serve, even in the potential to be smallest respects. amazing.”

“Every single day, we have opportunities

Whatever happened to this child prodigy? Well, like all kids, she grew up. She’s now married with a 20-month old son, James, but she still has the same childhood dream: to help and protect the future for herself and for others. She continues to draw upon that dream that began almost twenty years ago.

Despite her young age, she recognized the steps needed for her initiative. “Start small, step by step.You can’t look to your government to fix everything.” Today, she is still involved with Kids F.A.C.E., but on a smaller scale. After all, she has baby James to think about, and she plans on raising him with the same principles she inherited.

Of course, she developed many of those principles while at Father Ryan, where she excelled in a laundry list of clubs from Student

presented. They may not be glamorous, but they have the potential to be amazing.” She can easily attest to the success achieved just by seizing the day. “Everyone comes across a variety of decisions, and you never know what those decisions will lead you to. I began with a seed of an idea.”

She serves as a model of determination, one whose message is not lost in her humility. Her experience, she says, was the result of unique circumstances such as her young age and the political atmosphere at the time.Years later, her passion to serve has not faded.

“Your goals must be realistic,” she advocates. Her goal is a surprisingly simple one: to be featured on The Today Show during Willard Scott’s centenarian birthday tribute. Having dedicated nearly two decades serving in organizations that focus on protecting our planet forever, her goal sounds appropriate to us.

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We read about them in newspapers and magazines.

We see them on TV. Our military—the men and women who serve our country—are actively defending us at home and abroad. They are our neighbors, coworkers, friends, relatives. And despite the media coverage, we still don’t fully grasp their capacity to serve here or on the other side of the world. With two U.S. wars, what’s really happening over there? Ask Major Aaron Adams ‘91. He’s served in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

and manning flight schedules. He’s traveled all over the world, including to Jerusalem.

He earned the rank of major in 2006 and recently earned the qualification of White House Helicopter Aircraft Commander (HAC), where he has trained new pilots, one of the best things about being a HAC, he says. During the recent Bush administration, he was co-pilot of Marine One, the Marine equivalent to Air Force One, and had the privilege of flying former President George W. Bush. Soon he will be flying Marine Two for Vice President Joe Biden as aircraft commander.

As a man from a military family, Major Adams transitioned easily into the United States Marine Corps. His father served in the Air Force and his uncle served in the Marines. And as anybody in the military would tell you, there’s a subtle—or not so subtle, depending on whom you ask—rivalry between branches. “The difference between the Marines and the Navy is that there’s more discipline with the Marines,” he says with a grin.

PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

S

ervice. This word encompasses a common theme among the Father Ryan family, a principle evident in the classrooms, on the playing fields and stage—one that is echoed in the hallways and manifests itself in the core of the school’s mission.

It is not surprising that we present a few alumni they represent this distinctive Ryan tradition; who, like many alums, have taken this principle beyond the Father Ryan campus

Cover Story

Major Aaron Adams ‘91

where it was nurtured and have dedicated their lives to service, demonstrating extraordinary stewardship both locally and abroad. These are people who turn something seemingly ordinary into something remarkable, people like Charles Strobel ‘61, Melissa Poe ‘98, Major Aaron Adams ‘91, and Tim Forbes ‘93. Although they serve in different capacities, each exemplifies service, sowing the seeds for future generations of Ryan grads to make a difference in their own communities.

When not deployed, he lives with his wife and eight year-old daughter, Schuyler, in Quantico, Virginia where he has been for two years. Prior to Virginia, he worked for nine years at Camp LeJeune in North Carolina. Every so often, he returns to Nashville to visit family, friends, former classmates and even former teachers. Although it was a school holiday and heavy snow threatened to close the roads this past January, he trekked to campus anyway to visit one of his favorites, Mr. Richard Chambers.

“I have faith that good will prevail me.”

That discipline may have served him well during his deployments to the other side of the world.

He spent three and a half months in Afghanistan in 2004 and nearly a year in Iraq in 2005. He also spent six months in the Republic of Djibouti, a small country in the Horn of Africa bordering Somalia, where he was involved in counter-terrorism, humanitarian efforts and “winning hearts and minds.”

Among the most poignant moments of his time overseas was in Iraq during the first elections. He describes the experience as something you “don’t see on the news,” a fulfilling moment, one that justified his years of training and time away from his family.

He has been involved in the military since his graduation from Father Ryan, after which he attended the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He spent two years in Pensacola for pilot training, preparation that included basic flight instruction and surprisingly, swimming. The training primed him for the CH53 helicopter, an intimidating iron beast that can carry over 40 passengers and several tons of cargo. Among his duties since joining the Marines have been flying helicopters, training new pilots

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His was the last class to graduate from the Elliston Place Campus, where he played football, soccer, was a member of the National Honor Society and a Eucharistic Minister. Although he graduated almost 18 years ago, Father Ryan’s influence has not left him. His high school years have taught him it’s the necessity of faith even in the most dismal situations. “I have faith that good will prevail me.” Perhaps it’s appropriate that the motto of the Marine Corps is “Semper Fi”, short for Semper Fidelis, meaning “always faithful.” It’s a motto that dates back centuries ago but whose significance still resonates with millions.

Despite the negativity surrounding the wars, Major Adams sees the positive, that maybe the recent Bush administration did right, after all. A touchy subject and a bit premature, but perhaps there is a light at the end of the tunnel. “I want to let people know that we’re making a difference.”

For now, he will continue his Marine duties but hopes to work at the Pentagon in the near future. His priorities remain the same: taking care of his family and serving his country. Seemingly ordinary, yet remarkable.

Pictured left to right: Strobel bringing hope to the homeless; Hood with son, James; Major Adams with regular passenger, President George W. Bush; Forbes distributes ashes to students on Ash Wednesday.

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Band Travels F

Cross Country, Dominates Competition

ather Ryan may need to build more trophy cases following the continual success of its band program. The band has won nearly a half dozen trophies so far this year and they show no signs of stopping. With this year’s accomplishments, the Father Ryan Band has proven they are a force to be reckoned with.

The Marching Band alone has received honors in five competitions, proving they are one of the best bands in the country. During Homecoming this year, the Marching Band and Color Guard showcased their aerobics-themed performance, a routine accompanied by sweat suits, brightly-colored spandex and treadmills.

Later that fall, they took their performance on the road to several competitions.

They were named Grand Champion for the second year in a row at the Travelers Rest Marching Invitational at Overton High School. Nationally, the band dominated competition as Grand Champions in their class in the Bands of America Regional Citrus Bowl in Orlando and in the American Regional in Indianapolis. They also received 2nd place in their class at the Bands of America Grand Nationals, placing 31st in the country among 500 competing bands.

During the Music City Invitational this year, the band made historical achievements by winning the Mayor’s Cup for the 7th time in the last 10 years and 8th time overall. The Drumline also won the Roll-off Challenge Cup for the 10th straight year, more than anyone in the history of the contest.

The Marching Band performs during the 2008 football season.

Not to be outdone, the Winter Guard has also performed exceptionally well this year. They recently finished second in the Winter Guard International World Championships, topping high schools and colleges, such as Penn State, in the independent category. They also won first place in March at Independence High School, the first time in over a decade that they have competed.They scored a 91 in their class, 30 points ahead of the runners-up.

The Father Ryan Band has plenty to be proud of this year. In addition to their numerous competition awards, a total of 14 band members were recognized by the All-State and Mid-State organizations this year.

In February, they earned a well-deserved vacation, traveling to New Orleans where they participated in a clinic at Loyola University and then embarked on a cruise to Cozumel, Mexico. The vacation was short-lived and, characteristic of these hardworking and dedicated students, they jumped back into rehearsals, practicing for more competitions across the country. Despite the hectic schedule, the band members remain energetic, humble and grateful, always managing to squeeze in some time to play for their biggest fans at home.

Band Day Is Music To Parochial Schools Band students from local parochial schools were invited to Father Ryan in March to participate in the 10th Annual Band Day. These students, in grades 6-8, enjoyed a day of band practice, lunch and a performance under the instruction of professional band directors. They also received door prizes provided by Music and Arts, Fork’s Drum Closet and Thomas Tours. Students were represented from Holy Rosary, St. Edward, St. Henry, St. Matthew, St. Bernard and Christ the King schools. Expect to hear many of these musicians marching on Ryan’s field in the next couple of years.

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introduced the Search program, sharing an influential experience in his own life.

If you’ve ever met Tim Forbes ‘93, you’ll notice he asks this question frequently, not in the casual or obligatory sense, but with an unmistakable sincerity.Yes, it may be an ordinary question, but to him, it is an effective tool he uses to serve his students. As Dean of Student Life and Campus Ministry at Father Ryan, he stays busy serving hundreds of students, but is never too busy to set aside time for any of them. There’s no doubt he knows the faces of each and every one—and most likely those of their families, too.

In his three years at Ryan, he has become a sounding board for the student body. He can rarely be found in his office; usually, he’s in the hallways talking, laughing and most importantly, listening to students. Using their suggestions, he has continued to build upon campus ministry programs by matching them to student interests while serving their needs.

This past January, he accompanied students to Washington, D.C., to participate in the March for Life, where they met with Tennessee legislators over Roe v.Wade. The trip has grown since its beginning several years ago and now averages 46 students each year. Ever the pioneer, he has even initiated a few of his own programs, like class retreats and alternative spring breaks. This year’s alternative spring break trip took 12 students to Johns Island, South Carolina, to work with Habitat for Humanity (see p. 16).

Service has always played a prominent role in his life. Following college graduation, he spent time in Boston working with the Trinitarians, a religious order. Shortly after, he served in campus ministry at a high school and parish in Charleston, SC where he

Parochial school students participate in Band Day.

Nevertheless, the call back to Nashville grew stronger and so he returned, excited with the opportunity to serve in a familiar Catholic community near his family.

While talking with him, it becomes obvious he’s in his element: interacting with young people in an environment that’s mission is service. He’s also in the same hallways he used to walk through, working among the very people who taught and influenced him.

The relationship dynamics with those faculty and staff members may have changed, but it doesn’t stop him from walking down memory lane. He was involved in plenty while at Ryan—sports editor for the Moina, and member of the basketball team and Student Council among others.

Mentioned often in conversation is Principal Paul Davis who, at the time, was a teacher, basketball coach and Student Council moderator—or, in other words, present in nearly every activity in which Tim participated. And if there were some comical antics back in the day, Tim’s not sharing.

“I receive more blessings than I could possibly ever give.”

While it may seem his job is just a series of trips, he is dedicated and serious about his ministry, characteristics he has had since his school days at Ryan only 16 years ago. “I was called by God to come back to Ryan. This was an opportunity to serve in a community I’m familiar with and to serve in a community that I love.”

Band members pose aboard a cruise ship to Mexico.

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“How are you?” It’s a simple question we hear every day, a casual greeting that elicits a variety of responses.

Consumed in our busy lives, we often ask it without ever waiting for a response.

However, this simple phrase holds a powerful message that is the basis of service.

Cover Story

Tim Forbes ‘93

His heavy involvement in school activities is hardly a far cry from his life today. Along with service trips to D.C. and South Carolina, he and his students are also involved with local projects. Two years ago, he helped establish Ash Wednesday as a day of service from a suggestion by the 2007 senior class. On that day, students volunteer at sites around the city as a way of demonstrating the messages of Lent. Past sites have included Paragon Mills, Fannie Battle, Ronald McDonald House and many more.

He, too, recognizes the magnitude of his ministry. “I receive more blessings than I could possibly ever give.” He’s hesitant to take the credit, but his consideration for others makes service fundamental in his life. “My next goal is to outreach to more faculty and staff.

They make each student feel like the most important. My favorite moments are witnessing the community’s love and care for the students—from the top down. They genuinely care for these students. I want to feed the shepherds who feed our sheep.”

So next time you see Tim Forbes, stop and talk with him. He’ll probably ask how you are. And before your conversation is over, he’ll most likely ask about your parents, your sisters and brothers and your children, too. We guarantee you’ll walk away feeling a little bit better, knowing someone cared enough to ask.

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Father Ryan Athletics

Photo courtesy of Michael Gomez ‘85

The Carells Legacy Gala Honorees

Ryan Wins 17th State Wrestling Title T

he Irish wrestlers winning a state championship title for the second year in a row was a pleasant surprise to everyone but the team.

After long-time rival Baylor trumped Ryan in the Dual Wrestling State Championship 46-15, the Irish wanted payback. They certainly got it.

Returning with a vengeance, Ryan beat Baylor 253 to 235 and claimed their title.

‘69 and Bubba Donnelly Dr. Kent Kyger, y Gala. ac eg L arrive at the Chris Donnelly

The evening spotlight shined brightest on the Carells and their generosity. Here’s an excerpt from the program profile.

Stand-out team members included co-captains Cody Austell and Patrick Marchetti, each earning a state championship title in their respective weight class. Junior Wes Wesley won his second championship in familiar fashion by defeating the Baylor wrestler in the finals after losing to him in the finals of the dual tournament; he did the same thing last year. Cole Moseley also earned honors as the first Ryan freshman to ever win a state championship.

In all, 13 of Ryan’s wrestlers received a medal.

“I want to help.”

They are truly simple words, uttered in a variety of moments with varying degrees of intent by just about every one of us.

But when one hears those four words from Jim Carell and his wife, Jan, the meaning is unmistakable, the energy is palpable and the generosity is heartfelt. Most important, wonderful things start happening.

It was almost 16 months ago that Father Ryan heard those words, and since that time the Carells have been committed to bringing the Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex to reality. But as it takes shape on our campus, he reminds us that it wasn’t athletics that drove him to support the school­—it was, and is, the students who welcomed him without even knowing who he was, who demonstrated their character and who reminded him of what a Father Ryan student has always represented. His own high school experience and the Carells’ desire for Father Ryan to be able to continue to serve the entire Catholic community of the Diocese in its distinctive way are what fuel the Carells’ enthusiasm.

President Jim M cIntyre congratula tes Legacy Gala Honoree, Jim Carell ‘54.

Looking Back 30 Years

Marty Blair auctions off a Vespa during the live auction.

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ver 500 friends, parents, alumni and family of the Father Ryan community gathered April 4th in Nashville to salute the school and its 2009 Honorees, Jim and Jan Carell at the 30th Annual Legacy Gala. In the process they raised over $132,000 for Ryan in an evening of fellowship and celebration.

The Legacy Gala, established in 1979, honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional support for the school’s mission and the advancement of Catholic education. Mr. McIntyre said that the 30th Legacy Gala in 2009 salutes two individuals whose commitment to the school has made a major impact both on the campus and in the community.

“The Carells’ extraordinary commitment to supporting the Father Ryan mission will give our students, alumni and friends opportunities for a more enhanced learning experience and a central venue for the entire community to enjoy. The Carells’ gift has turned a long-time dream into reality, and we are proud to honor them at our Gala,” Mr. McIntyre said.

The Carells believe that “money isn’t worth anything if you can’t share it,” and this belief guides their philanthropy and helps shape our community.

The wrestling team shows off its 2009 State Championship trophy.

This year’s win marks the 17th state championship for Irish wrestling, including six in duals and 11 in individual tournaments, in the 40th anniversary year of their first championship title.

Hockey Team Earns First State Championship I

t was an amazing season that rivals that of the Nashville Predators. The Father Ryan hockey team won its first state championship, beating the two-time defending state champs JPII Knights. Coming off a successful regular season, the Irish entered the Predator’s Cup Semi-Finals as Nashville’s top seed. They faced the Knoxville Warriors, who took a two-goal lead in the first period before Ryan came back and defeated them 5-3.

The championship game was a tight contest for the Irish through two periods. Although the Knights outshot Ryan 12-4 in the first period, the Irish came back with strong play by goalie John Vorholt and a goal by Matt Neal. Neal scored again in the second period and Andrew Mueller added another. In the third period, the Knights scored but a skilled defense prevented them from getting any closer. Mueller finished up the game with a goal, securing a 4-1 Irish victory.

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The hockey team smiles in celebration of its State Championship win against JPII. The NHL’s Nashville Predators honored Father Ryan as the 2009 Preds Cup Champions during intermission at their March 28 game against the Los Angeles Kings. The team was also honored at the Predator’s Luncheon by the Comcast Sports Spotlight Speaker Series in October, and the seniors received honors at the Comcast Spotlight on Sports Luncheon in December.

www.FatherRyan.org 7 Mary Parker and Kevin McHale pose for a photograph.

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A

season that began with hope turned into one filled with promise and ended with unexpected success as an exciting stretch run took the Irish to the state championship game for the 2008-09 basketball season.

Led by seniors Brendan Connolly, Mark Mulloy and Gerald Saltkill, the team jelled after Christmas and went on a tear through the last part of the regular season, winning 10 straight games to get to the title game. In the process they knocked off Ensworth 51-49 at their gym in an exciting Regional Championship game, playing without an injured Mulloy and with Connolly, who’ll be playing for Princeton in the fall, scoring 38 and gathering in 16 rebounds. After dispatching Memphis’s Briarcrest in the State semis, Father Ryan faced Ensworth again for the title but fell behind early and was unable to mount a charge, falling 66-41.

The varsity basketball team celebrates its 2nd place finish at State.

These two individuals were involved in music and entertainment and thought that the time was right for Ryan to salute its alumni in a major way. The first Gala welcomed 306 attendees, honored long-time Ryan Registrar Alice Gentry and raised over $8,500 for the school. From those beginnings the event has grown substantially, becoming the school’s largest annual fundraiser, raising over $100,000 last year and celebrating the achievements of the entire Father Ryan family.

Photo By Mike Gomez ‘85

Boys Basketball Team Runners-Up at State Championship

The celebration looked back and looked forward throughout the evening. The program of events focused on today’s school with a variety of auction items and events designed to raise funds for the school’s programs.

But it also reflected on the origins of the Legacy Gala itself and the work of parents and alumni like Danny Davis and Jerry Glaser ’50 in bringing it to reality.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

History of the Legacy Gala

Memories from the first Gala: Jerry Glaser ‘50, chair, Ms. Alice Gentry, honoree, and Danny Davis, entertainer,Ryan parent and co-founder, with Glaser, of the event.

However, the runner-up crown fit well on a team that had not been to the title game recently, and proved testament to a dedicated crew of players and coaches who turned basketball hopes into triumphs throughout the season.

Swimming & Diving Team Finishes 10th at State Championship T

he word “team” is an understatement for this year’s Irish swimmers and divers. Following the mid-season car crash involving team member, Brittany Leedham, the Irish banded together and carried out one of their most successful seasons to date, setting two team records.

They dedicated the McCallie Invitational to “Swim for Brittany,” writing messages on each other’s arms and backs.

Bishop David Choby ‘65 peruses items at the Silent Auction.

Jeremy ‘93 and Jennifer Bisceglia browse the Silent Auction room.

Legacy Gala chairs, Cathy and Walt Wasyliw.

Gala attendees give standing ovation to Jim Carell ‘54

The team finished in 3rd place at the Region Championships, with an amazing 95 percent of the Irish swimming their best times of the season.

The men’s team placed 4th, led by senior captain William Varley, and the women’s team finished 6th behind freshman Sara Menke.The men’s 200 freestyle relay team with Madison Wenzler, Drew Alessio, Harrison Daigle and William Varley crushed the 2003 record with a time of 1:29:58. A total of seven Ryan swimmers made the All Region team.

Twenty swimmers qualified for the state championship at the University of Tennessee, finishing in 10th place among 116 competing teams and The 2008 - 2009 swimming & diving team finishes nearly 900 athletes.The men’s 200 freestyle relay team won 9th place and 10th among 116 teams at State. tied the team record set at the Region Championships. Madison Wenzler placed 6th in 50 freestyle and 7th in 100 freestyle.The team set their second record of the season with Rachel Deutsch placing in the 50 free consolation finals, breaking the school’s record set in 2000.

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f it was a concern, both Sean Conway and Courtney Rymer don’t have to worry about it anymore.They will continue to attend school together next year, continuing a long tradition since elementary school at St. Henry. In January, surrounded by family and classmates, they each signed their National Letter of Intent to play athletics at Western Kentucky University, home of the Hilltoppers. Conway will play football; Rymer will play soccer.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Students Sign National Letter of Intent for Western Kentucky University

Conway, an all-state offensive lineman, was a two-year starter for the Irish football team. Last season, he played in the Toyota East vs. West Tennessee All-Star Classic, featuring the top players in the state. He committed to Western Kentucky in November. Rymer was a four-year starter for the girls’ soccer team, playing midfielder, and was co-captain of last season’s 2008 state championship team.

Sean Conway and Courtney Rymer sign their National Letters of Intent.

Students Turn Spring Break into Housebuilding Each year, hundreds of students across the country redefine Spring Break, sacrificing a week of sun tanning and beach lounging for something more labor intensive and gratifying. This past March, 12 Father Ryan students embarked on a trip to Johns Island, South Carolina to work with the Sea Island Habitat for Humanity (SIHH).

The concept of an “alternative spring break” is not new to Father Ryan, but its popularity is growing.

“The alternative spring break gives our students more opportunities to carry out our mission of service in a community outside of their own,” said Tim Forbes, Dean of Student Life and Campus Ministry.

“The alternative spring break gives our students more opportunities to carry out our mission of service and in a community outside of their own.”

Despite the beachy scenery, the six-day trip was far from a vacation. Students worked alongside other volunteers from

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8:00 am to 4:00 pm, laying foundations, digging footers and hanging drywall. “These students worked nearly 35 hours of hard labor,” says Forbes, who accompanied the students on the trip. On the final day, the group enjoyed a brief respite at the beach—a bit chilly, according to Forbes, but still fun.

Conway and Rymer join two more Ryan athletes who have committed to playing college athletics next year.

Brendan Connolly will play basketball at Princeton University and Carolyn Caire will play tennis at the University of Evansville.

Saturday June 6, 2009 • 8:00 a.m.

Champions run Golf Club Reunion Weekend Visit www.fatherryan.org/alumni to learn how to register

This year marks the 30th anniversary for the Habitat for Humanity affiliate, the third oldest affiliate in the nation. In celebration, SIHH pledged to build 30 houses by 2009 and actually exceeded its goal by building 33 homes. These houses have helped re-establish the community after the devastation of Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Last year, Father Ryan traveled to Abbeville, Louisiana to rebuild in another area devastated by hurricanes.

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5/8/09 2:53:39 PM

“This is a day that has been long-awaited by the entire Father Ryan family,” McIntyre said, “to be topped only by the opening of the complex this fall. I am grateful to our lead donors, the entire Father Ryan community and our Task Force Committee for leading us to this point; and to the City of Oak Hill for their support. While we still have work to do to complete the project and the fundraising, I am confident that will happen.”

Mr. Carell initiated the funding of the athletic complex with a $2 million gift early in 2008. Carell’s gift included a challenge that required Father Ryan’s alumni and friends to contribute $2 million in additional funds, which was attained ahead of schedule. Mr. Carell is president of Achiever Development Corporation, chairman of CareAll Home Care Services and president of CareAll Management, Inc. (From left) President Jim McIntyre, Student Body President Clay Harris ‘09, Principal Paul Davis ‘81, Bishop David Choby ‘65, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean, Charlene Williford, Jim Carell ‘54, and Jim Langdon ‘54.

Class Notes Class Notes

‘67

Pat McGee ‘67 continues to work on numerous advertising campaigns. His 30 year career includes a stint as president of the ad agency that created the Ernest character of TV and movie fame. Most recently, he completed a TV, outdoor and Internet campaign featuring YellaFella, the yellow clad cowboy pitching YellaWood pressure treated lumber. This campaign was seen in 14 states throughout the southeast and midwest. Pat and his wife, Phyllis Baltz McGee (St. Bernard ‘67), have two sons, Jeffrey ‘95 and Jonathan (faculty) ‘99.

‘75

Mike Williams ‘75 has been living in St. Louis for the past six years with his wife, Kathleen. His oldest daughter, Alysen Shea, is an LPN at Richland Retirement in Nashville. She and her daughter, Aubrey, live in Pleasant View. His youngest daughter, Tracey Leigh, is engaged to a soon-to-be St. Louis County Police Officer. She works parttime at Target and St. Anthony’s Medical Center and is a full-time student at St. Louis Community College. Her goal is to go to St. Louis University and get her degree in radiology technology. Mike’s family also includes his stepchildren, Erin and Kevin, who are great kids and friends. He hopes to see all his classmates at their next reunion.

‘77

Mark Duff ‘77 is living in Covington,VA, and is a registered nurse at Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital, located in Lexington,VA.

‘79 BECOME A PART OF THE COMPLEX WITH AN ELLISTON PLACE BRICK Mr. Carell has hoped everyone would be able to say, “I helped build this place.” Today, every member of the Father Ryan family has that opportunity to contribute with the purchase of an Elliston Place brick that will be used in the construction of a Jerusalem Search Cross at the crossroads of the Complex.

The opportunity to order your brick or participate in another meaningful way is still available. These bricks are the ones remaining from the original school on Elliston Place and can be inscribed with a salute or memorial.

The opportunity is limited, so reply now. We’ve always said, “if these walls could talk.” Now they can speak your message forever.

For additional information and to see construction progress visit www.fatherryan.org/athletic_complex. To order your brick, go to www.fatherryan.org/bricks.

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Class Notes

Father Ryan Breaks Ground (Continued)

Mark Curran ‘79 is now working at Professional Construction Solutions Inc. along with fellow Ryan alums Joe Derrick ‘79, owner, Tim Mulloy ‘79, senior project manager, and Danny Francescon ‘79, sales.

‘80

Debra (Bowlds) Dunnigan ‘80 is a realtor with Red Realty in Smyrna, TN. The company was number one in commercial sales in Rutherford County in 2008. Debra works with Rutherford, Davidson, Wilson, Williamson and surrounding counties.

‘84

Carol (Horton) Ditmer ‘84 has two grandchildren, Ashlynn Marie, 3 years old, and Elizabeth Ann, 1 year old.

Blake Fontenay ‘84 is the communications director for the Tennessee Secretary of State, Comptroller and Treasurer. He previously worked in the newspaper business for his entire career, including a stint as an editorial board member and political columnist for The Commercial Appeal newspaper in Memphis.

Lillian Q. Jackson ‘84 was recently appointed to the UT-Knoxville Black Alumni Council.

The council was established to serve the AfricanAmerican alumni, the UT community and to promote the University of Tennessee. Lillian will serve as the Event Chairman. The council’s primary purpose is to provide social, professional, and personal developmental programs for more than 6,000 alumni of color. In addition, Lillian continues to serve on the Board of Directors for UT-K’s Atlanta Alumni Chapter, where she has chaired the Coca Cola Big Orange Caravan for three years. She also created a board community service partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta for their annual Star94 Radiothon fundraiser.

Greg Parsons ‘84 is a pilot for Allegiant Air based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, flying a MD-80.

Joe Smith ‘84 and his wife, Amy, relocated to Sonoma County, CA, in 2008 with their sons, Benjamin Ryan (age 8) and Ethan Nicholas (age 7).

‘89

Alyssa (Wingo) Phares ‘89 joined the Air Force in 1997, two years after graduating from Belmont University. In 1999 she married Joel Phares. They have two sons, Joel Michael Jr., age 7, and George Robert, age 3. During her time in the Air Force she was stationed in New Jersey during 9/11 and New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. The family moved to Franklin, TN, where she is now a stay-at-home mom and her husband is a cardiologist with The Heart Group.

Doug Couden ‘89, his wife, Holly, and their children, Grace and Ava, are living in San Francisco, CA, where Doug is a Director of Equities Senior Portfolio Manager for SCM Advisors, LLC.

‘91

Keith Alberstadt ‘91 reached a career milestone for comedians when he appeared on Late Show with David Letterman in February 2009.

Kristen (Bendon) Hyman ‘91 recently accepted a position with LeaderShape, Inc., a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to transform the world by increasing the number of people who lead with integrity and a healthy disregard for the impossible. In January, she traveled to Doha, Qatar, to facilitate one of the organization’s programs, The LeaderShape Institute, for college students attending universities in Education City. She and her husband, Jeff, live in Champaign, IL.

‘92

Jim McCann ‘92 has been living his dream of working for Marvel Comics as a writer and consultant for the past four years in New York, NY. He authored New Avengers:The Reunion, which sold out in one day. In April, he returned to Nashville for an appearance at The Great Escape, a local comic book store where he bought his first comics. While in town, Jim also reconnected with several of his classmates for a reunion of his own.

‘94

Kate Loftus Riley ‘94, Montessori Educator of 12 years and a member of the Belmont University Adjunct Montessori Faculty, will serve as the Head of School and lead teacher of Holy Trinity Montessori School enrolling for fall 2009 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Franklin, TN. The school will serve children ages 18 months to 6 years old, offering a toddler as well as a primary classroom and will have half-day and full-day options. It will be the first Christian Montessori school in the Nashville area. Contact Kate at 615-424-4236 or holytrinitymontessori@gmail.com for details.

‘95

David Borum ‘95 and Katherine (Dubose) Borum ‘89 and their two children have relocated back to Nashville from Chicago. David is Assistant Vice President of Special Investigations with Swiss Reinsurance (Swiss Re) Companies of Americas. Kathy is a fulltime mom and enjoys every minute with her family.

Joshua Tenisci ‘95 was promoted to Project Planner for the Medical Equipment Planning Consulting Firm of Gene Burton & Associates. He has called Dallas, TX, his home since 2003.

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‘96

Rachael (Frisbie) Maidens ‘96 recently moved back to Brentwood and has opened RM Orthodontics, a boutique orthodontics practice in the Maryland Farms office park (www.rmorthodontics.com). Rachael has been practicing in Atlanta for the past three years and met husband Randy Maidens there. She is excited to be home again!

Completion Project. When the $2.5 billion project is finished in 2012, Watts Bar Unit 2 (located in Spring City, TN) will provide 1,200 megawatts of power to the TVA system, enough to serve 650,000 homes.

Jeremy lives and works in Knoxville, TN. In his free time, he trains for powerlifting. He competed in the Southern Powerlifting Federation World Championships in October 2008, placing 2nd in his weight class.

‘99

‘03

Jennifer (Waynick) Bogan ‘99 graduated from MTSU in 2005 with a BS in Public Relations. She works for Wilson Bank & Trust in Murfreesboro, TN. Jennifer married Brent Bogan at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on June 2, 2007, with Deacon Hans Toecker officiating. The couple enjoys traveling and is continuing their education.

Brent is pursing a master’s degree at MTSU, and Jennifer is taking exams to obtain an Alternative Teaching license to teach English in grades 7 - 12.

Jamie Castleman ‘99 works with his father at Castleman Drilling and Pump Service, a family-owned company that was started in 1920. He is married with two children, Braxton (16 months old) and Brenley (5 months old).

Kevin Holman ‘99 is in graduate school at the University of San Francisco pursuing a master’s degree in sport management.

Raymond Dunning ‘03 was recently featured in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd” section. He is saluted for his wrestling accomplishments at Adams State. At press time, Raymond was ranked as the nation’s #1 wrestler in Division II in the 141 pound class.

Brittany Thomas ‘03 graduated from Aquinas College in Nashville on December 11, 2008. At graduation she received the St. Catherine of Siena Award, which is presented to a graduate of the School of Nursing. The award is given in recognition of a student’s scholastics, attendance, honesty, and other qualities such as a strong sense of self and leadership abilities.

‘04

‘01

Malea Barron ‘01 recently joined Gish, Sherwood & Friends as an account executive in Nashville. Barron received a bachelor’s degree in public relations and advertising from the University of Alabama, and she earned her master’s degree in mass communications from MTSU in 2007.

André Dieu ‘01 is stationed in Turkey for a 120-day deployment in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. André, a graduate of the Air Force Academy, pilots the C-17A Globemaster III, a military airlift/ airdrop plane. He has transported over 1.6 million pounds of cargo and 235 passengers.

Jean Malone ‘01 recently wrote a book titled Flamingos, which was published a part of Penguin’s All Aboard Reading series for young readers. As a Level 2 Reader, Flamingos targets children who are able to read with some assistance. Jean works as an assistant catalog librarian for Ingram Book Group’s Library Processing division in Lavergne, TN.

‘02

Brittany Francescon ‘02 teaches at Murrell School in Nashville and was awarded the Nissan Teacher of the Week award by Nissan and radio station 107.5 The River in January 2009.

Tobi J. Holmes ‘02 graduated from Eastern Kentucky University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in nursing, in December of 2008. She passed her boards in order to obtain her license in March of 2009. Tobi is working in the Cardiac Care Unit of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Lexington, KY. Jeremy Thompson ‘02 graduated from UT-Knoxville in December 2007 with a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering. In March 2008 he began working for Bechtel Power as a Control Systems Engineer working on TVA Watts Bar Unit 2 Nuclear Plant Construction

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Photo courtesy of Kats Barry

Class Notes

Ben Hayden ‘04 is employed

by Google in Boston, MA, where he is working on software improvements to YouTube. He is engaged to Becky Scholl.

‘05

Matt Morales ‘05 was elevated to Battalion Commander of the University of Tennessee ROTC’s Rocky Top Battalion on April 21, 2009. Battalion Commander is the highest ranking a ROTC cadet can attain. Matt is a Political Science major. He will be commissioned a Second Lieutenant upon graduating from UT-Knoxville next spring.

Sara Wilgenbusch ‘05 has been named to the dean’s list in the University of Notre Dame’s College of Science for outstanding scholarship during the fall 2008 semester. Students who achieve dean’s honors at Notre Dame represent the top 30 percent of students in their college.

‘06 ‘07

Hannah Blatt ‘06 was recently named Student-Athlete of the Month at Vanderbilt University. Hannah plays tennis for Vanderbilt and is majoring in human and organizational development.

Savannah Daigle ‘07 recently played Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga.

Lisa Duke ‘07 was cast in the role of Sasha in Summer Folk, a mainstage show at Columbia University in Chicago, IL.

Visit www.fatherryan.org/alumni to submit class notes

The complex will feature a comprehensive athletic facility, to include:

• A visually striking new

• • • •

stadium, with permanent seating for 2,300 and the latest in field turf design and technology.

A modern track, providing an exceptional venue for runners and an excellent location for major competitions.

A complete renovation of the baseball field with a new backstop and the most current field and equipment technology.

The reorientation and comprehensive renovation of the softball field to create an enhanced setting for players and fans.

Major improvements to the two practice fields.

In addition to providing a center for a wide range of athletic, musical and school functions for Father Ryan, the complex will also provide a place for the entire Catholic community of the diocese to gather.

“The Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex will be a new symbol on this campus, providing a center for celebrating our school and our faith for every (Clockwise from top) Jim Carell ‘54 speaks at the single student, every single Groundbreaking Ceremony; Jim Carell’s grandson, Ben teacher, every parent, every Carell, peers over the model of the Athletic Complex; Fr. alumnus, every friend. And it Philip Breen ‘57 and Fr. Mike Johnston ‘63 celebrate will be a powerful salute to the during the ceremony. thousands of men and women throughout our 84 year history whose digging provided—and continues to provide—a community of true believers committed to this remarkable school and its tradition of faith, knowledge and service,” Mr. McIntyre said.

(Continued pg. 4)

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Class Notes

FR. G’S GIFT FUNDS GIACOSA STADIUM

Fr. Charley Giacosa’s favorite admonition was “hang in there.” It was a reminder of the powers of faith and hope in our lives. So it’s appropriate that one of the long hoped-for parts of the Father Ryan campus will now bear the name of Father G, our own constant beacon of hope.

Father Ryan announced at the Groundbreaking Ceremony that the new stadium will bear Fr. Giacosa’s name, a recognition of his generous gift to the school for the complex and a salute to his message of love and faith. Fr. G’s family, his niece, Charlene, and her husband, Greg Williford, as well as his nephew Anthony LaPagalia, were in attendance to thank the school and Fr. Giacosa for his service and his love.

“On altars throughout the Diocese, in classrooms at Father Ryan and on the national stage with the Cursillo program, Fr. Charley Giacosa left his stamp of concern, compassion and energetic support for God’s work. In honoring Fr. Giacosa with Giacosa Stadium, we’re doing more than celebrating his life; we’re celebrating ‘Father G’ and what he gave us of himself,” said Mr. McIntyre.

Father Giacosa was a former Ryan teacher and beloved priest in the Nashville diocese.

Father “G”, as he was lovingly called, taught at Father Ryan from 1963-70. He also served the Diocese of Nashville as Director of Ministry Formation Services, Director of the Clergy Personnel Board and Director of the Diocesan Permanent Deaconate Program, which he helped to establish.

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Matthan Blue to Mark and Brandy (Hounihan) Brandenburg ‘94, born on December 2, 2008.

The family lives in Frederick, MD.

Yader Odell to Yader and Frances (Leathers) Meza ‘05, born on November 26, 2008. The Mezas live in San Marcos, CA.

Kenneth Jacob to Anne Marie (Anderson) ‘89 and Joby Campbell, born on February 25, 2008.

He joins his 4 year-old brother, C.J.

Jalynn Amanda to Jason Wade McMillan and Michelle Lynn Moore ‘97, born on September 2, 2008.

Riley Wade (bottom left) to Kristin and Brian Corbitt ‘00, born on January 23, 2009. Brian is a Lieutenant on the Toyota Fire Department. The Corbitts live in Georgetown, KY.

Mary Mae Dillon to Catherine (Hite) Pietsch ‘98 and Matt Pietsch ‘97, born on October 21, 2008.

McKenna Claire Huesser to Candace Curran ‘05, born on August 2, 2008.

Samantha Katherine to Kim (King) ‘98 and Daniel Green ‘98, born on February 3, 2009.

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Births

Benjamin Gentry to Heidi and Jay Vaiksnoras ‘90, born on June 11, 2008.

Aubrey Elizabeth to Travis and Jenny (Duello) White ‘97, born on May 30, 2008.

Trevi Dyanna (bottom right) to Abby (faculty) and Jared Irvine (faculty), born on January 29, 2009.

Amelia Morgan Williams (top right) to Matt and Rachel (Mondelli) Williams ‘98, born on December 13, 2008.

Patrick Lynch to Lindsey (Lynch) ‘95 and Stuart Magness ‘95, born on March 24, 2009.

Marly Anne (right) to Emily (Stockwell) Yoshino ‘00, born on September 26, 2008.

Photo courtesy of Jim Blackstock ‘96

Father Ryan Breaks Ground on New Athletic Complex

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joined in making this complex a reality. At the front of the line is he skip was brief, but full of expectation and excitement. As Jim Carell ‘54 made his way across the gym floor to make the man who came to me over 16 months ago with a dream for his remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony, Father Ryan. Mr. Carell toured this campus and a standing ovation filling the field house, he came away impressed with our students—with skipped over the mid-court line, saying in one their manners, their curiosity and their dedication Go to simple step that the anticipation is almost over. to this place. He told me that this school is the secret in education and in Nashville. www.fatherryan.org and best-kept Father Ryan broke ground February 11 on And he decided to do something to make it less the Jim Carell Alumni Athletic Complex, the a secret. That’s the beginning of this exciting click on the webcam to of journey, and I am grateful for his vision school’s first on-campus athletic complex, with Bishop David Choby ‘65, Nashville Mayor Karl follow the progress of and generosity.”

Dean, Mr. Carell and hundreds of students, With the groundbreaking, the school is underway faculty, parents and supporters cheering on the the construction. on the $5.2 million dollar complex, which will ceremony. The ceremony followed an all-school be completed for the school’s athletic schedule Mass celebrated by Bishop Choby and attracted this fall. Mr. McIntyre said that the generosity of an enormous crowd on the wind-swept day to numerous lead donors has resulted in over $4.8 million raised in begin the process that will produce the complex. cash and pledges to date.

Mr. McIntyre saluted the day and the donors to the project.

“Today we send our thanks to many true believers who have

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Weddings Samantha Basel ‘05 and Christian Jandreski were married on June 7, 2008 at St. Philip Catholic Church in Franklin, TN.

Kelsey Nabors ‘03 and Paul Witte ‘03 were married on May 3, 2008 at the Cathedral of the Incarnation in Nashville. The couple now lives in Findlay, OH.

Rachel (Derrick) Jones ‘99 and Charles Jones were married on June 17, 2008 in Florida. Rachel, Charles and their daughter, Corlin Jones, live in Hermitage, TN.

Kelly Tessar ‘02 and Will Myers ‘03 were married October 4, 2008 at St. Henry Catholic Church in Nashville.

Jennifer Francescon ‘02 and Daniel Childs were married January 10, 2009 at Christ the King in Nashville.

Jenny Wallace ‘89 and Eddie House were married on April 12, 2008 in Franklin, TN. Jenny works at Universal Music Group Nashville where she’s been for over 14 years, and Eddie is Assistant Chief for Franklin City Fire Department and Williamson County Rescue and Fire. The couple lives in Franklin, TN.

Renee Marie Donnelly and Lt. Stephen Joseph Lawless ‘00 were married September 6, 2008 at the U.S. Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis, MD. The couple is living in Virginia where Renee is a nurse and Joe is stationed at the Pentagon.

Joe Williams ‘02 and Nissa Bishop were married on October 18, 2008 at St. Edward Church. They live in Knoxville, TN.

Katie Lenchis ‘03 married Colin Brooks ‘01 on August 16, 2008.

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MARY FRANCES ANDERSON - Mother of William ‘60, Jerry ‘61 (deceased), Joe ‘63 and Ronald Anderson ‘68 and Linda Hays.

JAMES M. BARR - Father of Tony Barr ‘81 and Andrew Barr ‘83.

WALTER BEVINGTON, JR ‘35 - Father of Mary Ellen and Sally Bevington; brother of Margaret Rich.

BETTY JANE RODGERS - Mother of William, Daniel, Terry and Joe Rodgers and Betty Lou Burnett.

MICHAEL STEPHEN BUSH ‘66 - Brother of Thomas ‘64, Bernard ‘76 (deceased), and Pat Bush ‘76 and Genie Bush Herron.

Becky Young Announces Her Retirement JOSEPH KONOPKO ‘45.

MARY JO DAVIS LEVINE - Sister of Philip Davis ‘46 (deceased), John Davis ‘48 (deceased), Bob Davis ‘50, Jane Manning, Alphonse Davis ‘53, Helen Alexander, Frank Davis, and Sr. Philip Joseph Davis.

WILLIAM “BILL” METZGER - Father of Sue Holzapfel, Anne Clepper, David Metzger ‘72, Mary Ceil Langione ‘75, Danny ‘82 and Don Metzger ‘84.

JOSEPH V. PURCELL - Father of Joe ‘67 (deceased), Mike ‘68, Thomas ‘69 (deceased), Steve ‘71, Lou ‘73, Bill ‘76, Jim ‘78, and Phillip Purcell ‘81, Margaret Hausauer, Lucy Ellis and Regina Purcell (deceased).

FRANK E. BUSH - Husband of Sheila Beazley Bush ‘75.

RUBY C. CECIL - Mother of Thomas ‘59, Chuck ‘68 and Patrick Cecil ‘71 (deceased), Polly Sharkey and Billie James (deceased).

ROBERT F. CHAMBERS - Father of Richard Chambers (faculty).

HENRY MARTIN “MARTY” CLUNAN, JR. ‘64.

VERNA F. COCKERHAM - Mother-in-law of Jinx Cockerham (Faculty).

RUTH MARIE CONQUEST - Mother of Michael ‘65, Stephen ‘69 and Pat Conquest, Sharon Lewis Stoutt, Donna Jo Fleming and Mary Beth Godwin.

THEODOSIA ROSA - Mother of Nick Rosa ‘69, Ada Marie Carden and Theodosia Knighten.

JOHN PATRICK ROWAN ‘52 - Father of Jack McRae, John ‘76, Tim, David ‘82, Michael and Ann Louise Rowan (deceased).

JEAN RYAN SCHNEIDER - Mother of George Schneider ‘71, John Schneider ‘74 and Margaret Sharp.

CLARA SHACKLETT - Mother of Robert Shacklett ‘69, John Shacklett, Peggy Warren ‘76, Mary Ann Shacklett and Tommy Shacklett ‘77.

JOHN “JOCK” CLOVERDALE, JR. ‘67.

GERALD A. “JERRY” SULLIVAN ‘62 - Brother of Bob ‘56, Bill ‘59 and Patrick Sullivan, Nell Brown, Stella Shiber, Mildred Sullivan and Linda Langdon.

PHILLIP W. CUNNINGHAM - Son of Walt Cunningham ‘76.

WALT C. THOMPSON ‘43 - Father of Bill Thompson ‘81.

MARGARET M. FLYNN - Mother of Becky Flynn Frazier and John M. Flynn ‘65.

EMMETT H. WEBB, JR ‘43 - Father of Emmett “Mitch” Webb III ‘67.

MARY FRANCES FORMOSA - Mother of Jimmy ‘62, Charlie ‘64 and Stan Formosa ‘76 (deceased) and Nancy Malone.

ALYCE DOWNING - Mother of Christine White ‘89.

JOSEPH WHITEHEAD, JR. ‘71.

EARL “SONNY” FORTE, JR. ‘52 - Father of Stephen Forte ‘73 and Donna Forte-Tomlinson ‘79.

AUDREY GOULDENER - Mother of John D. Gouldener ‘64, Kathy Kirkham and Joseph E. Gouldener ‘58 (deceased).

THOMAS R. GREEK - Father of Michelle Marshall ‘88, Tommy ‘90, John and James Greek.

FRANCES HAILEY LAWRENCE - Sister of Sr. Betty and Sr. Roseanne Hailey, Lehman Hailey ‘43, James and Robert Hailey. Mother of Joanne Hill, Brenda Meachum, Therese Hoadley ‘72 and Monni Lawrence.

ANITA HOSTETTLER – Wife of Joe Hostettler ‘54 and mother of Joe Hostettler, Jr. ’85 and Mary Lee Todd.

GWENDOLYN SEAY KENT - Mother of Robert Kent ‘74 (faculty), David Kent ‘79, Julie K. Russell ‘81, Jonathan Kent ‘83 and Sandra Foster.

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CINDY WIGGER - Sister of Mark ‘74, Jerry ‘78, Joe ‘81, Phil ‘83 and Dee Wigger, Elaine Eslinger, Rita Eubanks and Paula Gibson ‘77.

JAMES E. WILLIS - Father of Cecilia Willis ‘06.

JAMES R. “Randy” WOLF ‘70.

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eacher. Singer. Actress. Dancer.

Becky Young is a Renaissance woman. If you’re looking for Mrs. Young, you can usually find her in front of the choir, directing the Father Ryan Singers in everything from medieval to contemporary to pop music.You can also find her in the theater or maybe in a classroom.

But if you’re looking for her on her days off, try the dance floor.

That’s right.You may not know it, but she ballroom dances and has for a number of years, even on a competitive level.

the music program and following the move to the Norwood campus she began a choir class. The class has since expanded to three: Beginning Chorus, Mixed Chorus (Father Ryan Singers) and Honors Choir. Her students have performed across the region, including the Middle Tennessee Vocal Association Choral Festival in Murfreesboro and the Heritage Festivals in Atlanta.

Without her influence, you might say you’d hear a little less music at Father Ryan.

Not one to toot her own horn, she is a woman of hidden and not-sohidden talents. She grew up singing with her family around town, in church and in talent shows. In the 1970s, you could hear her voice echoing throughout the Cathedral; she performed as a soloist under the direction of Robert Strobel ‘39 for many years. She studied vocal performance at Carson-Newman College and at Austin Peay State University, where she received a master’s degree in 2000. Today, she continues to sing with the Vanderbilt Community Chorus alongside fellow soprano and Ryan librarian Maureen Schlacter.

“The best aspect of my teaching career has been the people I’ve taught, the students who have inspired me.”

She has been a staple at Father Ryan since 1971, and on her 38th year with the Irish, she announced her retirement, extending a heartfelt good-bye to a prolific career with the school.

She came to Ryan after hearing of an opening in the English department and from there, she expanded her repertoire to classes like German, theater and choir.

Theater and chorus are her only classes these days as a part-time teacher. Since she has been at Ryan, she has seen programs expand and the facilities change. “The [Center for the Arts] facility is pretty amazing,” she says. “We could always use more storage space, but the theater is a great accomplishment.”

The choir is another one of her great accomplishments that, without her, may not exist today. She had wanted to improve

Faith, Knowledge, Service

In Memoriam

“Since I’ve been here, the school has been steadily improving. The quality of faculty is great. It’s been what we’ve wanted it to be—very close-knit.

And it has a sense of continuity with graduates returning to teach.” It’s that family that has prolonged her stay.

That family also included her daughter, Rachel ’96. As if it weren’t awkward enough to share the hallways with your mother, she had her as a teacher in not one, but two classes.

Mrs.Young will tell you it was no big deal, just “different,” but we can only wonder if her daughter felt the same.

“She called me ‘Mom’ in class,” she remembers, with a smile.

Her daughter now lives in Memphis with her husband and two children, working as a labor and delivery nurse.

With her long history at Father Ryan, Mrs.Young will leave behind a lasting impression for which we would like to say thank you. She has served the students, faculty and staff of Father Ryan for nearly 40 years with the energy and grateful smile of someone whose inspiration is derived from the very people she inspires.

“The best aspect of my teaching career has been the people I’ve taught, the students who have inspired me.”

For a woman who wears many hats, don’t think she’ll be hanging them up anytime soon. Her retirement will leave her with the time to devote herself to what she loves: volunteering, reading, gardening and spending time with family. She plans to continue ballroom dancing and hopes to pen a children’s book with her sister. To borrow a phrase from Shakespeare, the world is her oyster.

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Becky Young Retires........................... 1 Groundbreaking.................................. 2 Athletic Signings................................. 5 Band..................................................... 8 Cover Story......................................... 9 Legacy Gala....................................... 14 Alternative Spring Break.................. 16 Class Notes........................................ 17 Wedding/Birth Announcements...... 19 In Memoriam..................................... 20

Faith, Knowledge, Service

Table of Contents

Letters to the Editor Dear Irish Ayes, I lost my mother, Alyce, on March 11, 2009. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my many friends from FRHS who sent personal condolences and visited my family at the funeral home. It is truly a testament of the Ryan community that our bonds remain so solid after all these years.

Sincerely, Christie Downing White ‘89

Board of trustees Executive Committee David Bohan ’66, Chairman Patrick J. Nolan III ’69, Vice-Chairman Rev. Michael O. Johnston ‘63, Secretary-Treasurer David Glascoe, Finance Committee Chair Tommy Bradley ’81, Membership Committee Chair

Committee Chairs William R. Stejskal ’79, Facilities Committee Chair Judy Komisky Orr ’75, Advancement Committee Chair

BOARD MEMBERS Antoine Agassi Rev. Mark Beckman Lori Copeland Chamberlain Judith E. Hoover Steve Janicak Rev. Patrick J. Kibby ’73 Patricia Kyger Kevin J. Marchetti ’73 Philip M. Mattingly Sr. ’69 Robert J. Mendes Stephen P. Mullins ’75 John Siedlecki James Sochovka

Danielle Meyer sports her Irish Pride.The double legacy’s proud parents are Thomas Meyer ‘94 and Amy (Wilson) Meyer ‘94.

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Please send your comments and letters to Irish Ayes to alumni@fatherryan.org

Most Rev. David R. Choby ’65 Rev. David Perkin, V.G. James A. McIntyre Dr. Therese Williams

LIFE TRUSTEES W. Irvin Berry ’46 Thomas G. Connor Sr. ’60 John J. Cunningham Sr. William J. Dunigan William H. Farmer ’65 Edward B. Gore J. Terry Hunter Vincent T. Phillips John C. Shea ’51 William F. Smith Edward A. Stack

IRISH AYES

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Spring 2009, Volume XXXVI Number 3

Irish Ayes is published by Father Ryan High School and is distributed without charge to alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends of the school.

Send address changes to: Father Ryan High School, Advancement Office • 770 Norwood Drive, Nashville, TN 37204 Phone: 615-269-7926 • E-mail: alumni@fatherryan.org.

Father Ryan High School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Join Us For Reunion Weekend June 5-7, 2009

Classes of ‘49, ‘54, ‘59, ‘64, ‘69, ‘74, ‘79, ‘84, ‘89, ‘94 and ‘99 Father Ryan would like to welcome back all alumni to reconnect and celebrate with former classmates and the Ryan community. This June, we will celebrate our annual reunion weekend, kicking off the festivities with the Alumni Reception, followed by the Lou Graham Alumni Invitational Tournament, class reunion parties and finally, the Golden Grad Mass and Brunch.

Alumni Reception Friday, June 5 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm FRHS Center for the Arts Lou Graham Alumni Invitational Tournament Saturday, June 6 8:00 am Champions Run Golf Club in Rockvale, TN

Class Reunion Parties Saturday, June 6 Times and locations TBA Golden Grad Mass & Brunch Sunday, June 7 10:00 M FRHS Center for the Arts

If it’s your reunion year, be on the lookout for more information in the mail on your class reunion party.

You may also visit our website at www.fatherryan.org/reunions for details.

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$400,000 A Gift From God…

Catholic education is an exceptional gift from God, and your contributions to the Annual Fund ensure the quality of virtually every aspect of school life—from the classrooms to the playing fields to the stage.

Volume XXXVI Number 3 Spring 2009

Faith, Knowledge, Service

2008/09 Annual Fund Goal

Help us build on the record-setting results of last year. Please prayerfully consider giving to Ryan so that today’s students can continue to experience this life-changing gift.

To make your gift, contact the Advancement Office or go online to www.fatherryan.org/giving NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Planting the seeds for a lifetime of service

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770 Norwood Drive Nashville, TN 37204 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Becky Young Announces Retirement pg. 1 Athletic Complex Breaks Ground pg. 2 Wrestling and Hockey Win State pg. 7 www.FatherRyan.org Page 22

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