Bear Facts Summer 2023

SUMMER 2023

AMETUR COR JESU

Loved be the heart of Jesus

Founded in 1894 by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, Catholic High School is an all-male college preparatory institution serving young men in grades 8 - 12.

Bear Facts is published biannually by Catholic High School’s Office of Communications.

Margie Alexander, Ashley Davies, and Hilary Trahan, Editors

Contributors:

Margie Alexander

Mindy Broadhead Averitt

David Butler ’77

Dr. Tom Eldringhoff

Jennifer M. Fontaine

Lisa Harvey

Brian Hightower ’97

J.P. Kelly ’92

Ben Relle

Jenny Ridge

Jamie Segar ’90

Shelley Vance

Submissions:

We welcome the submission of material for possible publication based on the discretion of the editors.

Catholic High School

855 Hearthstone Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806

A Brothers of the Sacred Heart School Since 1894

PRESIDENT’S FAREWELL

Last year on Foundation Day, CHS announced that President Gene Tullier would retire after 17 years of serving as President of Catholic High School and 45 years of service with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. We spent the last few months celebrating him every chance we could get!

For recognition of his incredible service and for being a faithful instrument of God’s work and his fidelity to the Charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, the CHS Administration and community conferred upon Mr. Tullier an honorary Catholic High School diploma. Mr. Tullier is forever a part of the Class of 2023 (and many classes before) brotherhood.

Members of the Catholic High School faculty and staff gifted Mr. Tullier with a box a “retirement must-haves” including games, wine glasses and this unicorn float!

Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broom presented Mr. Tullier with a Key to the City for his outstanding civic contributions to the city of Baton Rouge.

A retirement celebration was held on May 24, at the Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Student Center. Mr. J.P. Kelly ’92 welcomed friends, family, coworkers, faculty members, and alumni before Brother Ray Hebert, S.C. gave the blessing. Brother Ivy LeBlanc ’63, S.C. and Brother Ronald Hingle, S.C., Provincial of the United States Province, shared kind words and fond memories from their time working alongside Mr. Tullier. Blane Clark ’77, CHS Board of Directors Chair and Mr. Jerry Jolly ’70, Chairman of the CHS Foundation Board, presented Mr. Tullier with tokens of their appreciation.

To close the celebration, the Brothers of the Sacred Heart sang Animés de l’Amour with music provided by the CHS Jazz Band.

Mr. Tullier has undoubtedly changed Catholic High School for the better, and while he is not a CHS graduate, he will forever be a significant part of our history, and we will miss him dearly!

PRESIDENT’S UPDATE

This issue of Bear Facts brings with it summaries of the 2022-2023 school year that wrapped up, and looks forward to the 2023-2024 school year that is underway. While each new school year has its predictable changes, 2023-2024 brings some that are out-of-the-ordinary.

On July 1, I began my new role as president, and Tom Eldringhoff took over as principal. Doug Logsdon ’02 has joined the administration as dean of students. Although the faces behind the titles have changed, the mission of the school and the structures in place will continue. The experiences of our students and parents will remain familiar and I am confident that the standard of excellence that defines Catholic High School will continue to be evident in every facet of school life. We are blessed to have a faculty and staff, led by an experienced administrative team of principal and assistant principals, who are committed to the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and educating our students within that mission. I look forward to witnessing how these changes bring about fresh initiatives and growth that will continue to serve our students.

One sizable out-of-the-ordinary change came about on June 9, when the Brothers of the Sacred Heart finalized the purchase of the Hundred Oaks Center from the Sisters of St. Joseph. With the purchase, the retired brothers living at the Brothers Residence next door to Catholic High moved into the Hundred Oaks Center and joined the retired sisters in what is now a retirement home for both groups. This bold venture begins a new chapter for all involved, but the partnership is not unprecedented in the history of the two religious orders. We only have to look at the beginnings of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart in 1817 to learn that Father André Coindre, the founder of the brothers, called upon the Sisters of St. Joseph to assist him with the Providence of Saint-Bruno, which was initially the work of Father Coindre, as he established a sanctuary for both boys and young ladies. The sisters eventually took over the enterprise and the rest is history. More information about the Hundred Oaks Center is included in this

Catholic High School now takes over the Brothers Residence and will utilize the building in the short-term as office space and classrooms. Most exciting is that we will have full-time access to the Brothers Chapel. Planning for the longterm future of the building is in the beginning stages and I am excited to lead this facilities expansion and continue the legacy of retired President of CHS, Gene Tullier. Of his many accomplishments, facilities were a priority so that the future needs of our students could be met, and the long-term viability of the school would be secure. We all wish Gene a happy retirement and thank him for his years of dedicated service to Catholic High School and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

We begin the 2023-2024 school year ready to welcome our newest students and continue the tradition of excellence that is Catholic High School. Go Bears!

Ametur Cor Jesu. Loved be the heart of Jesus.

Mrs. Lisa D. Harvey

PRINCIPAL’S UPDATE

Starting in the late Spring, CHS began the annual march through the various end of the year celebrations of our students’ accomplishments—sports convocations, Leadership Convocation, Honors Convocation, 8th grade promotion, and of course graduation. Each of these events provided us with a chance to reflect on the goodness of our students and the many ways our faculty and staff work to provide our young men with a holistic education. The 2022-2023 school year wrapped up, and it was by any measure a good one.

This summer brought some significant changes at CHS. Mr. Gene Tullier retired after 17 remarkable years as President of CHS. On July 1, Mrs. Harvey took over that role after 12 years of excellent leadership as principal, and I began my service as principal. I am humbled to have been asked to serve as principal. The Brothers of the Sacred Heart have been my mentors and colleagues for the entirety of my professional career in Catholic education, first at St. Stanislaus in Bay St. Louis from 1986 to 1990, and then at CHS from 1990 to the present. Being asked to continue their mission as principal at Catholic High is an honor. I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence that CHS represents in Baton Rouge and throughout the United States Province of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. I am privileged to serve alongside Academic Assistant Principal Jared Cavalier, Assistant Principal for Instruction Christy Kessler, and our new Disciplinarian Doug Logsdon ’02 as well as our tremendous faculty, which I am happy to say includes many fine men I had the good fortune to teach when they were students here.

As much as may be changing, plenty stays the same, and a busy summer at Catholic High School is one of them. Visitors to the Catholic High Campus this summer might be surprised to encounter the level of activity that characterizes our campus when regular school is not in session. It is common for teachers to hear “it must be nice to have summers off,” and while that might be true for some individuals, it isn’t true for Catholic High School. Summer at CHS has been in full swing, with future bears everywhere, attending camps that range from serving the less fortunate in our area to computer coding to athletics. Dozens of students from CHS and SJA attended the weeklong Catholic Leadership Encounter in Estes Park, CO. Our choir toured Italy and performed in select churches. Our coaches were hard at work helping players in every sport get better in the strength and speed workouts. Alumni, faculty and friends are working out at 6 a.m. during the CHS power hour in the Grizzly Greats weight room, and the campus underwent its annual summer cleaning and maintenance so it is ready to go in August. Many of our faculty are also hard at work teaching summer school, taking graduate coursework, grading AP tests, attending conferences, leading mission trips, and participating in various programs devoted to the educational spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart—all of which is focused on helping our students become the men God created them to be.

I hope this edition of Bear Facts finds all of you well, and I look forward to sharing more with you about the good work being done every day at CHS. Go Bears!

Ametur Cor Jesu. Loved be the Heart of Jesus

Dr. Tom Eldringhoff

54 STUDENTS IN THE CLASS OF 2023 RECEIVED AN ACT COMPOSITE SCORE OF 30+

2023 CLASS OF

26% OF THE CLASS OF 2023 WAS ACCEPTED TO AN HONORS COLLEGE OR PROGRAM WITHIN THEIR UNIVERSITY

OFFERED ADMISSION TO

125 DIFFERENT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

25.4

AVERAGE ACT SCORE OF THE CLASS OF 2023 WITH 100% CLASS PARTICIPATION

George Daniel Aggrey Alex Kurt Ainsworth ® Austin Paul Ainsworth ® Hays McCoy Alexander Jr. ® Earl James Alleman IV ® Walter Michel Anderson III ®

Samuel Sindo Boulet ® Toby Harris Bourg Jack Craig Bourgeois ® Brock Ashton Broussard £ Luke Matthew Broussard ® Austin James Brown

Austin Gregory Anding ® Kellen Michael Anthony Jon Philip Antoon £ Jacob Thomas Atkinson ® Andrew Mark Babin Brooks Reed Babin ®

Cohen Patrick Bajon £ Camr’n James Banks Bennett Michael Barber £ Nathaniel Jerome Barbera £ Allen Ray Bares III ® Benjamin Matthew Black ®

Christian Michael Black ® Pierson James Blackstone ®

Hunter James Blouin James Paul Boudet ® Grayson William Boudreaux Harrison Cooper Boudreaux

THE CLASS OF 2023

Hudson Harrington Brown ® Hunter Rion Butler Grant Joseph Campesi ® Cameron Parviz Canafax ®

Patrick Randal Cangelosi £ Grant Robert Canzonire

Paul Benjamin Carlson ® Landon Andrew Carter ® Andrew William Castel £ Bennett Charles Castro £ Max Jay Cavana ® Braden Joseph Cazes

Ryan James Cedel £ Darrell Wayne Celestine II Graham Hart Chambley £ Owen Paul Charlson ® Samuel Joseph Chatelain Shawn Dinh Chau £

£ Honors Program Scholar ® Academic Program Scholar

Charles William Childs Jacob Thomas Cloessner ® Aidan Paul Cole £ Benjamin James Couvillion £ Cole William Cranford ® William Neal Creech ®

Gino Joseph Culotta ® Everett Gardner deBlieux £ Winston Gerard DeCuir III ® William Harrison DeJean £ Jaime Dudley Delahoussaye® Drew Davis Devall £

John Young Gahagan, Jr. ®

Griffin Patrick Gautreau ® Eli Georgio Gilmore Elijah George Gilmore

Christian Cael Gomez Jacob Watts Goodson Jr. ®

Sahej Singh Dhillon ® Thomas Armand Domangue Mason Kemp Dornier ® Carter Alexander Drummond Aiden Joel Duffield £ Micah Ray Dunn ®

John Robert Ellison Brooks Michael Emonet £ Brayden Thomas Favaloro Nicholas Hyland Fawley ®

Chase Trotter Fernandez Grant Kirkland Fisher

Johnny Ray Fontenot, Jr. Hayden Daniel Fontenot £ Seth Nicholas Fontenot Owen Bradley Fourrier ® Grant Allen Fritsche ® Luke Anthony Gagliano ®

THE CLASS OF 2023

William Carter Goodson Jacoby Devon Grant ® Connor Joseph Green

Grant Carroll Grizzaffi Tyler Martin Guerin Luke Conrad Guidry ®

Jaden Ja’mel Hall

Daniel Patrick Hannie Daniel Justin Harden Maukese LaNard Harris

Jonathan Elijah Jose Mendoza Hayes £

Edward Louis Leroy Haywood IV ®

Jason Edward Hebert II Dennis Ray Hebert III Andrew David Heltz £ Luke Anthony Hertel £ Cole Thomas Hidalgo ® Khanh Blakele Hoang ®

£ Honors Program Scholar ® Academic Program Scholar

Hayden Reed Holloway ® Kyle Stuart Houser ® Cade Michael Hudson Christopher Rawls Hufft ®

Ethan Isaiah Banks Hunter Nicholas Anthony Hymel

John Holice Jackson Jack Michael Jarreau Zachary Joseph Jefferson ®

John Howard Jenkins Jacob Herman Johnson Joshua Herman Johnson

Bennett Charles LeJeune Jordan Louis LeJeune Stanley Sasso Levy IV ® Nolan Alexander Levy ®

Edward Steele Lewis Jack McClain Lewis £

Daniel McGrath Keaton ®

Alexander David Keaty £ Ryder Winchester Kerth ®

William Howard Kessler IV £ Sheldon Charles Labbé £

Luke Joseph LaCour

Landon Michael Juneau ®

Bishop Michael Landry ® Blake Christian Landry Logan Joseph Lane

Andrew Ryan Larson Braydon Alexander Larussa £

Kode Michael Lawrence Harold Rami Lawson £ Caleb Murphy LeBlanc ®

Matthew Ranes LeBlanc ®

Peyton Bennett LeBlanc £ Luke Joseph Legendre

THE CLASS OF 2023

Jackson William Lofland ®

Connor James Lynch Damon Douglas Lyons

Nicholas Edward Marionneaux ®

Prescott Lee Marsh £

Peter Joseph Mascari £ John David Masterson Andrew Joseph Matassa £ Grant Thomas Mathis £ Hudson Patrick Matthews ® Pierce Warner Maughan ®

Edward Carter Mayeux £ Justin Robert Maylon Adam Michael McDaniel Carter Hamilton McIntire Hunter Klein McIntire John Albert McKay

£ Honors Program Scholar ® Academic Program Scholar

Luke Joseph Losavio £

Russell Gianni McKnight Samuel Joseph Mengarelli Winston Thomas Mickal £

Nicholas David Migliacio Andrew Michael Miletello ® André Javier Miller £

Andrew Todd Miller ® James Ray Mills III £ Mark Nicholas Mills £ Cooper Crestone Michael Mockler ®

William Brady Moffitt John Marron Monsour, Jr. £

Brady Michael Pastorick Andrew William Patin ® Joseph George Patin ® Joseph Peyton Peak £ Zachary Michael Mozar Pellerin Jason Claudiu Perde ®

Aidan Patrick Moreau ® Roman Joseph Moreau ® Tyler Ray Morris ® Remi Andon Moushleb Alexandre Artall Mouton ® Mitchel John Munson

Maxwell Keith Neumann ®

Henri Durand Noel £ Luke Michael Nola ® Chidiuto Uchenna Nwokorie

John Hamilton Ogden Nathaniel Singh Ogra ®

Matthew Thomas Olinde ®

Conrad Michael Olivier £ Justin Joseph Oubre ® Kyle Antoine Oubre £ Hayden Lee Palmer ® Michael Thomas Papaneri ®

THE CLASS OF 2023

Ryan Andrew Perret ® Evan Michael Pickering £ Luke Vincent Pizzalato ® Jackson Tate Poe Merrel Anthony Porche III Augustus Bennett Pourciau £

Clayton Adam Joseph Pourciau ®

Mason Larue Ramsey ® Jack Thornton Randow Remington Scott Reed

Roman Gabriel Reed ® Jude Michael Robert

Dakota Jirell Robins Denali Montel Rogers Luke Charles Romaine £ Judd Brennan Rouyea ® Louis Michael Rudge ® Evan Michael Ruh

£ Honors Program Scholar ® Academic Program Scholar

David William Russell Michael William Salmon II £ Shelton Denard Sampson Jr.

Ethan Thomas Sanders

Kristophe Philippe Sauviac £ Sidney Carl Scheumack £

THE CLASS OF 2023

Trent Davis Schexnayder ®

Tyler Scott Schexnaydre Nathan Ulrik Schlegel ® Grant Michael Schliewe ® Carter Philip Schmitt ® Nicholas Lloyd Schroeder £

Donald George Scully III ®

Kaleb Cole Shanklin ®

Matias Falconer Shaw

Dylan Kairay Smith

Ethan Riley Smith ® Gabe Lane Smith ®

Andrew Kent Sonnier Brennan Stuart Sonnier Jude William Sonnier Alexander James Stelly ®

William Scott Sterling II ®

Edward Preston Stoeckle £

Michael Edward Sutton Adam Rodney Tessmer ® Colin Matthew Theriot

Ty Walker Thomas

Charles Collier Tramonte £ Justin Nguyen Tran

£ Honors Program Scholar ® Academic Program Scholar

Taylor Bun Tran ® William David Traylor £ Curtis Jarvis Trusclair Brock Joseph Turnley

Roman Anthony Vaccaro

William Harrison Valadie ®

Harrison James Waghalter ®

John Lucas Walters Jr. John Dylan Wampold James Richard Weber ®

Theodore Tre’ Hamilton Webre III £ Cullin Emrick Weidman ®

Hayes Colin Wendell ® Seth Joseph Willard ® Kirk Anthony Williams II ®

Jerry Byron Willis III Jacob Myles Wood ® Zebediah Hutton Zeringue ®

CO-VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS

Edward Carter Mayeux

“Ask any graduate of Catholic High what they’ve learned about life lessons – the importance of failure, dedication, perseverance, and they will be able to recount a story of a time when a sport, club, or class of Catholic High ingrained that lesson.

Catholic High has always been a place to block out the noise Whenever there were sources of stress or anxiety external to school that would negatively impact me, taking those first steps on campus in the morning and being greeted by countless smiles on familiar faces, made those worries not matter so much.

At Catholic, it became easier to focus on the good that was in my life. I was able to appreciate the fact that I was surrounded by people, friends, teachers, and coaches who genuinely cared about me.

Even more so, the community of faith I was surrounded with ensured me that God loved me, and that what we were all doing at this school was a part of his plan. It wasn’t always easy, but we went through it together, and we had each other’s backs. The sense of brotherhood cultivated over these past four years has allowed me us to weather the storms that came our way.”

CO-VALEDICTORIAN ADDRESS

Kyle Antoine Oubre

“The only reason I stand upon this stage today is because of the culture of hard work and dedication fostered here at Catholic High. Every morning, I arrive in Westmoreland seeing hundreds of cars already in the parking lot for practices and meetings. If I ever needed math help, Mrs. Peggy Patout will always be in her room at 6:45 a.m. without fail ready to take questions with a smile. After school, my club moderators have sacrificed hundreds of hours of their time just so I could do the activities that I love.

My story is not unique; for every single classmate in the room, your teachers, coaches, administration, and fellow students truly care about the success of both you and this school as a whole. Seeing this dedication surround us has enabled us to aim for something higher.

There are a lot of things I wish I could tell that little eighth grader fidgeting on those cold bricks – plenty of happy memories, and plenty of mistakes to avoid. However, after reflecting on my time at this school, I have one final message to share with all CHS students past, present, and future, especially those gathered on the floor today: you are not alone. No matter where you are and what you are doing, both God and the brothers you have found here at Catholic High will always support you.

All you have to do is just try a little, and the world will do the rest.”

OUTSTANDING GRADUATE STUDENT OF THE YEAR

AMERICAN LEGION AWARD WINNER

Everett Gardner deBlieux

“Catholic High is a place that has offered us a world class education. This place that has fostered relationships between us and its faculty, between us and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, and between us and each other.

This place that has given us the opportunity to win state championships, to succeed at festivals and tournaments, to cultivate our talents and skills, to meet new people and make connections, and most importantly, to build and grow in a relationship with God. Catholic High School, is not just a school. It is truly a home, and the people here are our family.

How do we transmit the school greater and better than it was transmitted to us, which we all vowed to do after signing the Honor Code? How do we protect and pass on the prestige the comes with the title of being a man of Catholic High? Well first, I say we look to the past, recognize the greatness that has come before us, and strive to build upon it. Then, we remember what Catholic High has taught us, and again, be the men that we are called to be. And finally, we support each other in times of need, we love each other as the brothers that we are, and we commit to being loving, faithful, and God-fearing men of Catholic High.”

Eighth Grade Class

Kellen Anthony, Cohen Bajon, Camr’n Banks, Grayson Boudreaux, Samuel Boulet, Toby Bourg, Austin Brown, Happy Butler, Paul Carlson, Shawn Chau, Gino Culotta, Thomas Domangue, Aidan Duffield, Hayden Fontenot, Johnny Fontenot Jr., Eli Gilmore, Elijah Gilmore, Luke Guidry, Daniel Harden, Dennis Hebert III, Zach Jefferson, Alex Keaty, William Kessler, Braydon Larussa, Harold Lawson, Bennett Lejeune, Luke Losavio, Pierce Maughan, Carter Mayeux, Andrew Miletello, André Miller, Tyler Morris, Conrad Olivier, Kyle Oubre, Hayden Palmer, Clayton Pourciau, Shelton Sampson Jr., Nicholas Schroeder, Donald George Scully, Ethan Smith, Justin Tran, Harrison Waghalter, Dylan Wampold, Cullin Weidman, Myles Wood

Eagle Scouts

Faculty/Son Grads

Pictured left to right: Griffin Patrick Gautreau, Sidney Carl Scheumack, Andrew David Heltz, and Zachary Michael Mozar Pellerin.

Pictured left to right: Mrs. Christy Kessler, William Kessler, Mrs. Margarita RamosGrasa, André Miller, Mr. Scott Losavio ’95, Luke Losavio

Legacy Graduates

Alex Ainsworth, Austin Ainsworth, Walter Anderson III, Austin Anding, Cohen Bajon, Pierson Blackstone, Harrison Boudreaux, Brock Broussard, Happy Butler, Patrick Cangelosi, Paul Carlson, Jacob Cloessner, Winston DeCuir III, Brooks Emonet, Nicholas Fawley, Owen Fourrier, Luke Gagliano, Griffin Gautreau, Christian Gomez, Daniel Hannie, Jason Hebert II, Daniel Keaton, Logan Lane, Luke Losavio, Connor Lynch, Hudson Matthews, Carter Mayeux, Carter McIntire, Hunter McIntire, Jack McKay, Mark Mills, Aidan Moreau, Tyler Morris, Mitch Munson, Luke Nola, Andrew Patin, Joseph Patin, Michael Salmon II, Carter Schmitt, George Scully III, Kaleb Shanklin, Brennan Sonnier, Jude Sonnier, Michael Sutton, Charles Tramonte, Luke Walters, Dylan Wampold, Tre’ Weber, Zebediah Zeringue

Jack Masterson, Harold Lawson, Taylor Tran, Kyle Oubre, Luke Losavio, Sidney Scheumack

Back row left to right: Carter Mayeux, Mark Mills, William Kessler, Ryan Cedel, George Scully, Kristophe Sauviac, Rhett deBlieux

Pictured front row left to right:

The Catholic High School STREAM Curriculum includes courses in Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math. Students earning the STREAM Certificate this year have completed four years of science and math, two semesters of art, two semesters of senior religion with one being Faith, Science, and Humanity; four semesters of engineering, including Engineering Design and Development and one additional engineering course.

Congratulations to the 31 seniors who have earned the STREAM Certificate!

STREAM Certificate

James Alleman, Nathan Barbera, Paul Carlson, Darrell Celestine, Aidan Cole, Winston DeCuir, Sahej Dhillon, Griffin Gautreau, Elijah Gilmore, Watts Goodson, Daniel Hannie, Maukese Harris, Zachary Jefferson, Landon Juneau, William Kessler, Peyton LeBlanc, Jack Lewis, Carter Mayeux, Andrew Miletello, Andrê Miller, Kyle Oubre, Joseph Peak, Denali Rogers, Luke Romaine, Louis Rudge, Sid Scheumack, Ethan Smith, Preston Stoeckle, Charles Tramonte, William Valadie, Cullin Weidman

National Merit Finalists

Pictured front row left to right: Peyton LeBlanc, Carter Mayeux, André Miller, Kyle Oubre, Sidney Scheumack, Nicholas Schroeder

Back row left to right: William Creech, Rhett DeBlieux, Ryan Cedel, Bennett Castro, Joseph Peak

Outstanding ACT Scores

ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-SEVEN = The number of CHS Bears that had scored a 30 or higher on the ACT as of May 5th, 2023! A few of our Bears were unable to make the group photo, and this number is always rising. For a complete list of our current 30+ Club members, please head to our ACT 30+ page on our website at www.catholichigh.org/30plus. The CHS team will update the page as scores are released.

Congratulations to the FIVE Bears with an ACT score of 36!

Pictured left to right: Kyle Oubre, William Creech, Ryan Cedel, Luke Dawson, and Carter Mayeux

Louisiana Seal of Biliteracy

Many of our seniors have been selected to receive the Louisiana Seal of Biliteracy. This is an award given out by the state of Louisiana for students who have completed four years of foreign language and have achieved a minimum ACT score in both English and reading. We are thrilled to announce that 53 seniors qualified for this honor.

Christian Black, Sam Boulet, Jack Bourgeois, Grant Campesi, Patrick Cangelosi, Paul Carlson, Bennett Castro, Max Cavana, Darrell Celestine, Shawn Chau, William Creech, Everett deBlieux, Winston DeCuir, Aidan Duffield, Micah Dunn, Brooks Emonet, Chase Fernandez, John Gahagan, Eli Gilmore, Jacoby Grant, Blake Hoang, Hayden Holloway, Daniel Keaton, Alex Keaty, William Kessler, Sheldon Labbe, Matthew LeBlanc, Stan Levy, Nolan Levy, Jackson Lofland, Prescott Marsh, Andrew Matassa, Pierce Maughan,

Winston Mickal, Andrew Miletello, Andrê Miller, James Mills, Nathan Ogra, Ryan Perret, Evan Pickering, Gus Pourciau, Kristophe Sauviac, Grant Schliewe, Nicholas Schroeder, George Scully, Matias Shaw, Gabe Smith, Alexander Stelly, Taylor Tran, William Traylor, Tre’ Webre, Seth Willard, Zeb Zeringue

Academic Golden Bears

Art: Drew Devall

Band: Adam Tessmer

Chorus: Andrew Matassa

Engineering and Technology: Carter Mayeux

English: Ryan Cedel

French: Rhett deBlieux

Health and Physical Education: Austin Ainsworth

Latin: Hayden Holloway

Mathematics: Carter Mayeux

Religion: Graham Chambley

Science: Kyle Oubre

Social Studies: Christian Black

Spanish: Christian Black

Academic Golden Bears

Extracurricular Golden Bears

Art Club: Sam Mengarelli

Bruin: Micah Dunn

Drama Club: Darrell Celestine

Fellowship of Christian Athletes: Kristophe Sauviac

French Club: William Creech

Junior Classical League: Eli Gilmore

Mock Trial: Jason Perde

Mu Alpha Theta: Carter Mayeux

National Honor Society: Andre Miller

Photography Club: Adler Rice ’24

Spanish Club: Alex Keaty

Student Ambassadors: Darrell Celestine

Student Council: Braydon Larussa

Ultimate Team: Toby Bourg

Youth and Government Club: George Scully

Congratulations

to our Golden Bear Recipients!

The Golden Bear Honors Convocation recognizes many of the students who have honored Catholic High School by their outstanding performance during the past four or five years - performances characterized by diligence in the classroom, perseverance on the field of play, fellowship among classmates, charity through serving those in need, and integrity and kindness in all that they do. It is appropriate, therefore, to give special recognition to these students who have contributed so much toward making this year a memorable one.

Gahagan, Matthew Marsh, Maughan,

GOLDEN BEAR RECIPIENTS

Co-Valedictorians

Carter Mayeux and Kyle Oubre

Service Award

Student-Athlete Award

Nathan Schlegel

Salutatorian Ryan Cedel

Kristophe Sauviac

Outstanding Graduate and American Legion Award Rhett deBlieux

THE NEXT GENERATION

Class of 2024 Ring Ceremony

The Class of 2024 Presentation and Ring Ceremony was held Wednesday, May 10, in the CHS Gymnasium. Father Trey Nelson ’80, accompanied by Brother Ray Hebert, S.C., served as celebrant. Choir members in the Class of 2024 provided the music alongside Cole Mogharrebi on the violin and Dr. Tom Eldringhoff on guitar. Faculty, staff and students were joined by family and friends in a packed gymnasium to celebrate.

The young men of the class of 2024 were introduced by Mr. Scott Manning ’01 while Principal Lisa Harvey, Assistant Principal for Discipline Jared Cavalier and Assistant Principal for Instruction Christy Kessler presented the young men with their senior rings.

The Catholic High School ring is a symbol of the loyalty, dependability, and courage needed in the neverending struggle to live up to the ideals of Christianity. The ring indicates that the wearer has successfully handled many challenges in the past, and has accepted the promises of the future.

Congratulations to the 64 members of the CHS Class of 2027 who were honored with a mass and reception to celebrate their promotion to 9th grade.

Brayden Ford received the Pete Boudreaux ’59 Courtesy Award based on voting by the 8th grade students and faculty. Good luck in high school, Bears!

AND PARENTS

CHS SNAPSHOTS

The CHS family would like to congratulate students (from left) Peyton Trigo ’25, Brennan Normand ’25, Nicholas Kolb ’24, Will Busenlener ’24, Brady Eldredge ’25, Shawn Vogt ’24, and Griffin Gautreau ’23 for recently attaining Eagle Scout status. The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest honor for a young man. In order to be considered, he must earn a minimum of 21 merit badges and complete courses in such areas as citizenship, cooking, fitness, lifesaving, personal management, and camping - among other requirements. He must also be an active member of his troop, demonstrate responsibility, and provide leadership on an approved service project. Way to go, gentlemen!

The Grizzly Hospitality Group’s pop-up restaurant, Twelve Knots, was a huge success! From the lamb moussaka appetizer to the Moroccan rice pudding, customers raved about the authentic Mediterranean dishes and incredible service. Our Bears served almost 100 patrons raising more than $8,000 for the school’s Habitat for Humanity build. Thank you to all who came out to show your support!

Beginning in September 2022, senior James Boudet began attending the Young Entrepreneur Academy of Baton Rouge. Through this six month program, James developed his business brand, business plan, and pitch presentation. In March, he pitched his startups to a panel of six local executives. We are thrilled to report that James was awarded $4,500 in seed funding! Congratulations, James!

The CHS Art Department held its annual Art Show in April where our Bears showcased their incredible artistic talents. Guests were treated to works of art in different mediums ranging from colored pencil and spray paint to ceramics and paper mache.

CHS SNAPSHOTS

During the Easter break, 35 members of the CHS family traveled abroad for an exciting exploration of Spain. Beginning in the famous Costa del Sol, by the Mediterranean Sea, students and chaperones traveled to Malaga, Granada, Seville, Madrid, and Toledo, visiting iconic monuments left by the Christian and Moorish monarchs of the medieval period. The group ate tapas, saw a flamenco dance performance, and visited the windmills of Don Quixote.

The St. Joseph’s Academy/Catholic High School Black Box Company presented the musical Xanadu March 30-April 2 in the Academy Arts Center Black Box Theater. Audience members enjoyed a trip back to 1980, from the top of Mount Olympus to Venice Beach, and experienced love, laughs, and the dawn of roller disco.

The play was directed by Taylor Alleman. Music director was Beth Bordelon; choreographers were Camille Coco, Katie Skupien and Lauren Coco; and tech coordinator was Vivian Toups. Moderators from CHS are Lindsey O’Neal and Anna Schittone.

Members of CHS Youth and Government attended Louisiana’s Model United Nations Conference where they had an opportunity to gain insight into international relations and diplomacy. Our students were able to experience representing a country’s viewpoint on global issues and engage in resolutions through compromise and cooperation. It was a great opportunity for our young men to put their research, public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork skills to the test all while deepening their understanding of current world issues.

Carter Mayeux ’23 was named recipient of NASA’s “You’ve Got Perseverance!” award which is given to students who display unique qualities of strength and perseverance. He is one of 11 students from across the nation who NASA honored this year.

Carter had an opportunity to chat with the men and women of NASA’s Mars Exploration Team about their current mission and the work they are doing with the Perseverance rover. Carter even got a special shout out from CHS Alumnus Keith Comeaux ’85 who was one of the NASA team members participating in the call.

A choir of 60 students from St. Joseph’s Academy and Catholic High School spent nearly two weeks in Italy, performing and enjoying the sights and sounds of this Mediterranean country. The vocalists sang with other choirs at the 2023 Rome International Choral Festival under the direction of the world-renowned conductor and composer Z. Randall Stroope. They also performed three additional times during their trip abroad.

CHS SNAPSHOTS

Young men and women from CHS and SJA teamed up with the students at St. Lillian Academy to help with a food drive benefiting the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Not only did the group help sort food and load boxes, they enjoyed meeting and getting to know one another. The event was the first of what the three schools hope to be a long-term partnership for student-to-student mentoring. We are so proud of these young men and women for their commitment to living their Catholic values through acts of service.

The Rotary Club of Baton Rouge sponsored three CHS students to attend the Louisiana Youth Seminar, a summer leadership camp for high school students. Here are Trip Palmintier ’26, Ian Chapoton ’26, and Landon Tuckerson ’25, pictured with CHS Alumnus Stephen Holliday ’84 at this year’s event. Our young men participated in activities centered around developing their communication and problem solving skills, setting/achieving goals, team building, and developing self-confidence.

Way to go, gentlemen!

This year, CHS added a beach volleyball team to the mix! Eight of our students in the new CHS beach volleyball club competed in Mango’s annual Cinco de Mayo doubles tournament. Seniors Bennett Castro and Luke Broussard went on to win the B division. A great start to the Bears’ Beach Volleyball Club!

AT HOME ON Hundred Oaks

The Sisters of St. Joseph have sold their Baton Rouge retirement center to the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. As part of the arrangement, nine brothers have moved into the facility, which has been renamed Hundred Oaks Center. The 12 sisters currently living there will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

The residence, located at 3134 Hundred Oaks near the Catholic Life Center, was completed in 2009 to replace Mirabeau, the provincial house in New Orleans, which was flooded by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and then gutted by a fire in June of 2006.

The agreement to share community and residential space was finalized earlier this year. In an announcement, Sister Kathy Brazda, president of

By Mindy Broadhead Averitt, Communications Director, St. Joseph’s Academy

the Congregation of St. Joseph, said the sisters are grateful to form “a new and vibrant community with the brothers” that gives the southern center a new and special purpose. “Our agreement with the brothers allows us the time to discern the best future for our sisters in Baton Rouge,” Sister Kathy said.

On June 9, the leadership of both organizations hosted a signing day celebration at Hundred Oaks Center to mark the official transfer of property from the sisters to the brothers. Brother Ronald Hingle, S.C. provincial of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, and Sister Kathy were joined by lay associates, sisters, brothers from New Orleans and Bay St. Louis, and lay colleagues from the brothers’ schools in the south, including Catholic High School, Brother Martin High School, and St. Stanislaus College.

ceremony.

Photos by Jennifer M. Fontaine, Digital Marketing & Analytics Director St. Joseph’s Academy

BUILDING HOUSES. Inspiring Hope.

On March 4th, we kicked off the 2023 CHS Habitat for Humanity build! Brother Ray Hebert, S.C. blessed the home and the life that will be shared within its walls. Following tradition, the future homeowner, Ms. Dominique Birdine, hammered in the first nail of the build. The Bears wokred on-site on the weekends through March and April. Since 2014, Catholic High School has raised more than $184,000 for Habitat for Humanity. This will be the fourth home the Bears build. CHS students began volunteering with Habitat in 2001 on the Youth Build. Over the course of 20+ years, more than 2,600 CHS students, faculty and staff have volunteered on Habitat builds.

On April 29th, despite downpouring rain in the area, CHS students painted, laid sod and helped get the Burdine’s home ready for the dedication ceremony. Catholic High School students, along with school leadership, were on hand to present Dominique with gifts and lay hands on her home while reciting the Lord’s Prayer.

Birdine Family

Dominique Birdine is the future homeowner of our CHS Habitat build. The Habitat for Humanity Program prepares its homeowners for successful and sustainable homeownership through homebuyer education classes and more.

Dominique is most excited about the framing of her home because it signifies the beginning of her future. Dominique assisted the construction crew and CHS volunteers every week of the build. We are so honored to be a part of her story and to welcome her to the CHS community.

THE BEAR BATTALION

By Dr. Greg Brandao ’73

They have provided servant leadership thoughout the country, from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii to The Pentagon in Washington, D.C., from Miami, Florida to Topeka, Washington, and many places in between.

They have provided servant leadership throughout the world, including, but not limited to, Afghanistan, Bosnia, Germany, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Oman, and South Korea.

They share at least two common bonds: These men have all attended United States service academies, and they are all graduates of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge.

They are 56 men whose names are listed in the online chart and who are now joined by seven CHS grads who headed to service academies in the fall of 2022 and another three in fall of 2023.

Catholic High School is certainly one of, if not THE top feeder schools to the United States service academies. This tradition of distinguished education and service to our country is a source of great pride for our alumni. Blue Ribbons, superior ratings, championships, National Merit scholars…all of these accolades and countless others distinguish us from peer schools in the state. But the “Long Orange Line” clearly separates CHS from all other schools in the country.

According to Lisa Harvey, CHS president, “It is humbling to read the quotes from our alumni and realize how the mission of Catholic High School and their experiences of that mission lived daily as a student prompted them to pursue military academies as a career choice. Over the years I have witnessed the increased number of students who consider serving their country through military academies, and I am proud that this culture exists at CHS.”

We asked these men two questions about the impact of CHS on their service academy experiences, and we also asked them their advice for other prospective CHS students who are considering application to a service academy.

Although we didn’t prompt them, please note the striking parallels between their words and the Mission of Catholic High School to “teach gospel values in an environment of academic excellence according to Catholic tradition and the spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.”

Their answers in their words follow.

aTTend the service academy?

“At CHS, I learned very quickly just how important selfless service is. By taking in the curriculum of the Brothers, I was able to deduce that a life of service is what I want for myself. I had wanted to attend West Point long before my days at CHS, but being a student at CHS cemented my desire of service to this country.”

William Conger CHS ’21, USMA ’25

“The CHS network connected me to CHS grads at the United States Naval Academy. Also, CHS has a code of conduct so students are required to hold themselves to a high standard of honor and discipline. I wanted a college experience that had the same standard.”

Brian Primeaux CHS ’12, USNA ’17

“The values of servant leadership and academic excellence at CHS inspired me to follow a path of service to society, while pursuing a top-tier education.”

Sean Gahagan CHS ’05, USMA ’09

“CHS taught me about service and giving back to institutions and people that helped me. Being in the military allows me to make my career about serving the US and giving back to ensure the advantages of being an American remain secure.”

Chris Martinez CHS ’01, USAFA ’05

“In many ways, CHS opened the door for me to gain exposure on what the service academies were. Prior to attending CHS, I had very little knowledge on what the service academies were, and the many opportunities that they offered.”

Karsten Brown CHS ’19, USAFA ’23

“The program at CHS showed me that achieving great things was not only possible, but expected. If I had gone to another school where mediocrity was acceptable, I probably would have been mediocre. Succeeding at CHS and having the support of my fellow students, faculty and staff helped build the confidence and sense of self-worth that I needed to tackle bigger and bigger challenges, including applying to a service academy.”

Bryan Hart CHS ’98, USMA ’02 “CHS provided excellent academics and extracurricular opportunities that gave me structure and opportunities to find my calling in life.”

Spencer Jurkiewicz CHS ’07, USNA ’11

“My experience at CHS instilled the drive to live a life of service. When the Naval Academy came knocking at the door for football recruiting I was immediately drawn to that school unlike any other at the time. I knew that going to Navy would give my life a purpose beyond what I thought I deserved, and would allow me to be a servant and a leader for our nation’s finest.”

Jonathan Alvarado CHS ’04, USNA ’08

“Coming from Catholic High, I had a strong background in service to others. Leading Sailors is exactly the same. You place their needs first and do whatever you can to help serve the people that serve the country. For me, the Naval Academy was the best pipeline to have the opportunity to lead Sailors and Marines.”

Brendan Hardin CHS ’16, USNA ’20

“The combined focus on service and striving for excellence in all things that the service academies ask for felt similar to the environment at CHS.”

Austin Gerald CHS ’09, USNA ’13

Brian Williams CHS ’97, USNA ’01

What role did your experience at CHS have in your decision to

“CHS helped me realize the importance of being a part of something bigger than myself. I found a direct correlation between my passion for my faith and my passion to serve my country.”

How did CHS prepare you for success in the service academy?

“CHS taught me about discipline, integrity, and hard work. All things that are important parts of academy life. They also set a standard of excellence and instilled values that are vital if you want to be a success at the academy and in the Army.”

Josh

Burton

CHS ’95, USMA ’00

“The most important thing that CHS prepared me for was instilling a level of self reliance that one must have in order to succeed at a service academy. While the academies have plenty of resources and phenomenal staff, it is ultimately up to you to meet the high standards that are expected. And if you fail to meet the standard then it’s on you and no one else.”

Dan Burton CHS ’98, USMA ’02

“Character development is a fundamental pillar of the mission of the Brothers and coincidentally is a fundamental pillar of USMA, so it was smooth transition. Honor and service are both shared values at CHS and USMA.”

Connor Finucane CHS ’20, USMA ’24

“The challenging academic curriculum at CHS gave me confidence to take on further challenges at the United States Air Force Academy. Although CHS doesn’t teach thermodynamics or Astrophysics, I was confident I could handle the challenge.”

Ryan Carville CHS ’97, USAFA ’01

“The CHS course load coupled with sports practices and other extracurricular activities preprared me for the jam-packed schedule of academy life. It was still a significant shock acclimating to West Point’s relentless daily schedule, but I couldn’t imagine how I would have done it without CHS’ preparation.”

Reid Finn CHS ’98, USMA ’02

“As a young man, the foundation for who you are and who you become begins to form in high school in your daily, weekly, monthly decisions and interactions. Aspects of integrity, courage, and commitment are taught the moment we step foot on the CHS campus, and although not truly appreciated as a young 15 year old, those character attributes can and do provide us the tools to be successful, in whatever you do.”

Doug Williams CHS ‘91, USNA ’95

“I think the biggest thing is the 24/7 rule. Here at USMA, you are a cadet on and off post and that is exactly what CHS taught. It doesn’t matter whether I am on pass out in NYC or home for leave, what I do reflects the Academy’s values. The 24/7 rule at CHS did the same thing and while other high schools couldn’t get students in trouble for things they did off campus, CHS could. This rule made you think twice about decisions and it translates to here at West Point.”

Matthew Tilley CHS ’21, USMA ’25

“The honesty, integrity, and selfdiscipline the Brothers, teachers, and coaches instilled in us mesh perfectly with the characteristics our nation needs in our miliary officers. I certainly would not have made it through the academy without remaining true to those values, much less have had a successful career in the Air Force.”

Beau Booth CHS ’86, USAFA ’92

“The combined focus on service and striving for excellence in all things that the service academies ask for felt similar to the environment at CHS.”

Austin Gerald CHS ’09, USNA ’13

“I was organized and efficient, having been familiarized with computer usage at CHS. Not to mention that my study habits and learning techniques, which I had developed at CHS, aided greatly in compensating for such a difficult and rigorous academic setting. One point that is critical to mention though is the CHS Honor Code Policy. The Honor Code Policy my high school had closely mirrored the Honor Code at West Point which states that a cadet will not lie, cheat, steal, or tolerate those who do. Since I was provided this background in honor, I felt that I was more secure in my character and ability to perform without external and unbalanced aid from disreputable methods.”

Nicholas DiLeo CHS ’18, USMA ’22

Do

thoughts or comments or advice to CHS students considering the service academies?

“It’s an incredible experience that will open your eyes to the world, opportunities, and an amazing set of peers and colleagues.”

Chris Hsu CHS ’88, USMA ’92

“When people think about Service Academies like West Point, they often think about the military training, the physical conditioning, and the academic rigor. These are certainly major components of the Academy, but character development often slips everyone’s imaginations. It certainly slipped mine. Military skills can be honed, physical ability can be trained, and academics can be studied, but character takes a long time to develop. Catholic High prepared me for all four pillars.”

Ezra Grant CHS ’17, USMA ’22

“I was not accepted to West Point out of CHS and reapplied after a year at LSU. I wouldn’t trade that year for anything in the world and, in fact, would do it all over again the same way. If you aren’t accepted initially, don’t give up on the dream!”

Steven Alch CHS ’88, USMA ’93

“Your focus should be a holistic view. While academically rigorous, I knew more people that struggled with the physical and military side of life at the academy. Also, be prepared to embrace a military commitment. It will be the best training you receive, regardless of your future career - military or otherwise. I’m an attorney and my army experience serves me well every day in a myriad of ways.”

Darren Alch CHS ’84, USMA

“To any CHS students considering the service academies, I would advise them that the journey is definitely tough and challenging but also extremely rewarding. You will be exposed to people and opportunities that only the service academies can provide.”

“I am so thankful there is a ‘Long Orange Line’ of CHS graduates that are choosing Service Academies. For me, it instills hope in the future of our country and community that some of our best graduates volunteer to defend the Constitution and protect our way of life. I also want to encourage CHS students to consider Service Academies as an option. It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience and will teach you more about yourself than you can ever imagine.”

David Beach CHS ’96, USMA ’00

“Challenge yourself as much as you can now, because the stakes are as low as they are ever going to be, and it will be others challenging you in the future.”

Justin Eagan CHS ’02, USAFA ’06

“My advice to CHS students considering the academies is to consider that the service academies exist to develop leaders of character for our nation’s military. There are many reasons people might consider the Academy, but the bottom line is that you must be committed to serve something other than yourself. Once you complete this challenging experience, the degree you earn is something that will open doors for you for the rest of your life both in and out of the military. So many of the leaders in our nation’s history started at the service academies and the mission remains the same as it was at the beginning. Days might be tough but the reward is worth the challenge.”

Michael Alch CHS ’04, USMA ’08

’8

“Pray and reflect on what you want your college experience to be and decide what you truly want to get out of your time in college. If you can see yourself at an academy, keep researching more and more about what it entails. If the more you research, the more you like it, then I would say it could be the place for you.”

Stephen Gaudin CHS ’18, USNA ’22

Ian Cavana CHS ’21, USMA ’25

you have any additional

A LETTER FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

The Bears had another successful athletic year in 2022-23. The fall saw city, district, and regional titles in swimming, football, and cross country respectfully, while the Vociferous Juggernauts went on to earn another State RunnerUp, the 10th of Coach Doug Logsdon’s twenty-year career, to go along with eight state championship teams. Coach Logsdon moves on to the role of dean of students next school year but leaves a strong program for new head coach, Nelson Sanchez, Class of 1990. Coach Kristen Pasquier will be on board as well to serve as Assistant Coach and Director of Swimming Operations.

The winter sports built on the fall’s success as wrestling, powerlifting, bowling, and soccer captured the city, regional, and two district titles respectfully. Both wrestling and indoor track finished as state runners-up. This was Coach Tommy Prochaska’s third state runner-up finish, and it was the first for new track coach Sean Brady. However, the biggest athletic story of the winter was Coach Derrick Jones and the Basketball Bears securing the LHSAA Division I State Championship for the first time in school history! The bears entered the playoffs as the third seed and defeated Rummel, Captain Shreve, and St. Thomas More before squaring off against district rival Scotlandville in the state championship game. Led by seniors Dennis Hebert, III and Connor Green, the basketball team battled back from down nine points in the third quarter to tie the game halfway through the fourth. Coach Jones and his staff made massive adjustments to force Scotlandville’s 6’11’’ senior center to guard junior Dylan Gifford out on the perimeter for the last four minutes of the game. Gifford was able to take advantage with scores on three consecutive possessions putting the Bears in the lead for good. Coach Jones was the star player in 1995 when Catholic last made a run to the title game, and now he returned to his alma mater to finish the job!

The spring saw championship success for every team as golf and tennis both won regional titles while baseball earned the 4-5A district title. Lacrosse was back in the state title game for the third consecutive year before falling short in overtime. But, it was first year coach, Sean Brady, and the outdoor track team that broke through and secured the 109th state championship in school history. The Bears won state championships in the 4x800m and the 4x400m relays, while junior, Paul Cattalanatto, won the LHSAA state title in the javelin. Coach Brady, who came to CHS from Texas A&M last summer, did a masterful job of getting athletes to perform best when the stage was the biggest.

The student-athletes were truly impressive on the field and in the classroom as Catholic athletes earned the recognition of Academic AllState 82 times this year. Nineteen graduates from the class of 2023 will go on to play collegiate sports. Catholic High School has earned 109 state championships, 89 state runner-up titles, and 307 district/regional/metro titles in its history. Athletics remains one the tenants of CHS’s holistic approach to education as it is expected that over 700 students will participate in at least one sport next year.

Ben DiPalma ’00

DOGS

Twenty-two of our student athletes are continuing their athletic careers in college. Check out where they are heading!

SPOTLIGHT ON Max Cavana DENNIS HEBERT

Congratulations to CHS student athlete Max Cavana ‘23 on being named the 2022-2023 Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year in soccer! Max is the first Gatorade Louisiana Boys soccer player of the year to be chosen from Catholic High School.

The award recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character on and off the field.

Guard Dennis Hebert eclipsed 1,000 points for his career. He was presented with a commemorative game ball. His parents were in attendance.

Dennis’ natural talent and his enjoyment of the game have been evident since he arrived on campus. This accomplishment highlights his relentless hard work and dedication to becoming someone his coaches and teammates could rely on for his entire 4-year career. Congratulations Dennis!

MEET THE NEW HEAD COACHES

In July of 2022, Sean Brady was hired to be the new indoor/outdoor track and field head coach at Catholic High. Coach Brady’s impact was felt right away as the Bears captured the state outdoor championship in his first year.

Prior to CHS, Coach Brady spent five years as an assistant at Texas A&M and 17 years as the head track and field coach at Southeastern Louisiana University.

SEAN BRADY HEAD TRACK & FIELD COACH

Nelson Sanchez, a 1989 Catholic High graduate, was named the new head coach of the CHS swim team in late March. Coach Sanchez brings a wealth of experience in and out of the pool.

After graduating from CHS, Sanchez was a 3-time letter winner for the LSU swimming team. Most recently, he worked as the Masters Swim Coach at the YMCA Baton Rouge.

In late December 2022, Catholic High hired Hudson Fuller to be the 22nd head football coach in the school’s history. Coach Fuller returns to CHS after a successful stint as the offensive coordinator for the bears from 20172019.

“It is humbling to have the opportunity to lead and serve the Catholic High football program,” said Fuller. “Our program will be unified with the mission of Catholic High School and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.”

Fuller spent the last three seasons as the head coach at West Feliciana High School where he led the Saints to a semifinal appearance in 2022.

HUDSON FULLER HEAD FOOTBALL COACH

The Catholic High bowling team recently named Ian Widdick as the program’s new head coach for the 2023-2024 school year. Widdick has served as an assistant for the past seven years at CHS and hopes to continue the Bowling Bears’ tradition of success.

“There’s nothing better than seeing our guys compete at the highest level and celebrating their achievements with them as a team. I love the sport of bowling because you can do it for as long as you choose while most sports dictate when you must give up playing. I want the players that come through our program to find a love for the sport as well,” Widdick said.

Although some of these faces may look familiar, we want to formally introduce you to a few of our newest head coaches on campus.

CHS announces Partnership with Varsity Sports Now for School Event Broadcasts

Catholic High School announces a new partnership with Varsity Sports Now (VSN), a professional high school sports streaming service, for the production and broadcast of school events. CHS Athletic Director Ben DiPalma '00 says he's excited to bring VSN's high-quality streaming to the CHS community.

“VSN has a great product, and we were looking for a way to bring Catholic High athletics to our fan base in the most efficient way possible," DiPalma said. "VSN was absolutely the way to go.”

With this new contractual partnership, all CHS/VSN joint productions, including home football games, select away games, and many other CHS athletic events can be accessed and streamed by Bears’ fans without a subscription to VSN. CHS Athletics is excited to allow Bear Nation to have live and archived events at their fingertips using the VSN website, smartphone app, or a variety of other options.

“Partnering with a school that has the prestige and tradition of Catholic High is a huge deal for VSN,” said Founder/CEO of VSN Eric Richey. “From the moment we had our first meeting with Ben DiPalma in February, we worked diligently to create a plan that would best fit their needs. We are thrilled to be the digital home for CHS Athletics.”

In addition to the CHS on VSN productions, we are pleased to continue our partnership with 104.5 FM ESPN Radio, which reaches nearly one million listeners spanning the 104.5 FM signal.

CHS Athletics also invites its supporters to be part of the excitement this season by becoming an official broadcast sponsor. Opportunities are available to promote your company or organization to the entire CHS on VSN audience as well as the listeners on 104.5 FM ESPN Radio. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Jamie Segar ’90, jsegar@catholichigh.org.

DR. CARL LUIKART ’72

Dr. Carl Luikart ‘72 arrived at CHS as part of the inaugural 8th grade class to be granted admission to the school in 1968. In 1971, he was part of the CHS basketball team that made the program’s first playoff appearance in 16 years. In his senior season of 1972, Dr. Luikart led the Bears to a 22-4 record and a second consecutive playoff appearance. Individually, he led the team averaging over 20 points per game with a high of 38 against Baton Rouge High School that season. Dr. Luikart was voted Vice President of the Student Council and was recognized as a CHS Man of the Year in that same year. His playing career continued at Nichols State University from 1972-1976. Dr. Luikart currently serves as the Medical Director for LSU Athletics.

SCOTT YERBY ’93

Scott Yerby ‘93 was a standout member of the CHS soccer team from 1990-1993. During these years, the soccer program saw unprecedented success, winning three state championships in 1990, 1991, and 1993 while coming in second in 1992. Yerby was a key player in that incredible run earning first team all-district and district MVP and first team all-state and state MVP honors as a senior. In his career, Yerby scored 90 goals leaving CHS as the alltime leading goal scorer in program history. He garnered the Most Valuable Player award at the CHS Winter Sports Convocation in 1993. Yerby went on to play soccer at Centenary College and then drafted to play professionally for the Lafayete Swamp Cats of the Eastern Indoor Soccer League.

DR. LUKE ZUMO ’04

Dr. Luke Zumo ‘04 is one of the most decorated basketball players in CHS history being named to the All-District First Team three consecutive seasons from 2002-2004. He was named District MVP, All-Metro, and 5A All-State Second Team. Zumo received a Golden Bear Award to go along with the American Legion Service Award. He attended college at Loyola University where he was named to the All-Conference Team in 2007-2008, NAIA All-American Honorable Mention in 2007, and Second Team All-Louisiana in 2007-2008. In 2010, he was named to the school’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s.

Zumo graduated from the LSU Health and Science Center’s Physical Therapy program in 2011. He was named the Top Graduate of his class after being the first student in the program’s history to finish with a 4.0 GPA.

JASON PETERS ’07

Jason Peters ‘07 was a disruptive force on the defensive line for the CHS football team from 2004-2007. During his time at CHS, Peters was selected to the All-District First Team twice, earned the Football Coaches’ Award in 2006, and was named the 2006 Gatorade Player of the Year for Louisiana. Peters also impacted CHS off the field. He was a member of the CHS Honor Board from 2005-2007, and his teachers voted him a CHS Man of the Year in 2007. His football career continued at Georgia Tech where he compiled over 100 total tackles, 11.5 TFL, and 5.5 sacks. Peters was also named to the ACC All-Academic Team in 2011.

A MESSAGE FROM:

The Catholic High School Office of Advancement

What an awesome 2022-23 school year. On behalf of the entire school administration, faculty, and students, the Advancement Team would like to thank you for your generous support. Last year, we raised over $820,000 for the Annual Appeal, $720,000 in scholarship and endowment donations, and over $137,000 in memorial gifts.

You made our school better, our students experience more meaningful, and allowed Catholic High School to continue to make a profound impact on the Baton Rouge community. We generated all these accomplishments with 22.75% participation of our alumni, parents, and friends. Could you imagine what would happen if we increased overall participation just 20%?

J.P. Kelly ’92 Director of Advancement

THE LESSON:

There is power in consistency

Teachers, instructors, and coaches always stress consistency of performance. Showing up every day and making an excellent effort leads to outstanding results. How does this apply to the Advancement Team? A one-time yearly donation of $1000 to Catholic High School is an outstanding result. A recurring monthly donation of $100 over the same year period is an excellent consistent effort that produces $1,200 for the school and produces a 20% better result.

$100 one time OR $10 monthly recurring gift = $120

$250 one time OR $25 monthly recurring gift = $300

$500 one time OR $50 monthly recurring gift = $600

$1,000 one time OR $100 monthly recurring gift = $1,200

20% more impact on our students

THE CHALLENGE:

Yes we will. Two actions must occur for us to reach our goal of 60% participation in our yearly fundraising efforts.

1 2

Get personally involved. Attend one or many of our adult spiritual, social, community fitness, or student wellness events.

Communicate with the Advancement team on how we can perform our jobs better.

Encourage a friend to support CHS.

Observe our students’ efforts.

Take pride in the service hours our students perform and the transformative religious retreats they attend.

Recognize the academic excellence of our National Merit Semifinalists, AP Scholars, ACT 30+ Club, and those who have scored a perfect 36 on the ACT.

Watch them perform in band performances, choir concerts, and athletic competitions.

You are invited, and if you accept this invitation, we will exceed the number of donors to the yearly campaign by 20%

To support the 2023-2024 Annual Appeal, please scan the QR code: A list of upcoming events can be found on the following page.

THE STANDARD:

Six years of 100% faculty and staff participation.

With 100% participation, and 90 members of our faculy and staff having a recurring gift in place, we will generate more than $54,000 dollars per year.

To put it in perspective, during a student’s four years at CHS between 9th and 12th grades, faculty members will have donated nearly $225,000 back to school, having a direct impact on that student’s CHS experience, thus furthering the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

“You will never reach 60% participation.”

THE RESULT:

More than $720,000 in scholarship and endowment donations

received since July 1, 2022.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENTS CREATED DURING THE 2022-2023 FISCAL YEAR

The Cusick Family Scholarship

CHS Class of 2012 Scholarship

Charles Ray and Jeffrey Charles Landry Memorial Scholarship Fund

CHS Class of 2002 Scholarship

The Arthur E. Faulk Family Endowment

The Margie Arceneaux Alexander Endowment

The Mr. and Mrs. John and Helen Bouy Memorial Scholarship Fund

Melvin Joseph LeBlanc Jr. ‘52 Family Scholarship

The Stephen M. Toups ‘84 Scholarship

CHS Mothers’ Club Past Presidents Scholarship

The Gerald E. Tullier Faculty and Staff Endowment

CHS Class of 1999 Scholarship

The Howard Joseph Jenkins Memorial Endowed Scholarship

CHS Class of 1973/50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship

Pepper - St. Amant Family Scholarship

CHS’ TOP 10 SCHOLARSHIPS

TOTAL ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS

Perry Thomas Fischer Memorial Endowed Scholarship

CHS Golf Classic Endowed Scholarship

Brother Eldon Crifasi, S.C. ‘39 Endowed Scholarship

CHS Alumni Fishing Rodeo Endowed Scholarship

CHS Class of 1973 Endowed Scholarship/50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship

Bryan P. Boudet ‘92 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Jacob Matthew Meek ‘17 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Brent David Pecue ‘80 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Betty Smothers Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Coach Kyle Jackson ‘07 Endowed Scholarship

CHS’ TOP 10 ENDOWMENTS

TOTAL ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Gregory A. Brandao ‘73 Faculty and Staff Endowment (Board Designated)

The Bernhard Endowment

The Evelyn, Jerry and Brian Davis ‘89 Endowment

The Brother Francis David, S.C. Endowment (Board Designated)

Jared V. Rachal ‘99 Endowed Fund

Men’s Club Endowment Fund

The Gerald E. Tullier Faculty and Staff Enhancement Endowment

Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Memorial Faculty Enhancement Endowment (Board Designated)

Gary J. and Lynette I. Lacombe Endowment

CHS Class of ‘75 Endowment

To support a CHS scholarship or endowment, please scan the QR code:

TOP FIVE CLASS SCHOLARSHIPS/ENDOWMENTS

TOTAL ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS

CHS Class of 1973 Endowed Scholarship/ 50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship ....... $170,887

CHS Class of 1982 Endowed Scholarship .......... $102,600 The Class of 1975 Endowment ...............................

TOP FIVE CONTRIBUTIONS TO A CLASS SCHOLARSHIP/ENDOWMENT

(07/01/2022 - 06/30/2023) CHS

SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENTS RECEIVING THE MOST DONOR

CONTRIBUTIONS (07/01/2022 - 06/30/2023)

The Gerald E. Tullier Faculty and Saff Enhancement Endowment

CHS Class of 1973 Endowed Scholarship/50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship

Bryan P. Boudet ‘92 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Vision 21 Foundation Endowed Scholarship

The Mr. and Mrs. John and Helen Bouy Memorial Endowed Scholarship

The Stephen M. Toups ‘84 Endowed Scholarship

The Class of 1999 Endowment Fund

Dr. Gregory A. Brandao ‘73 Faculty and Staff Endowment (Board Designated)

Raymond S. ‘62 and Randall P. Loup ‘87 Endowed Fund

The Evelyn, Jerry and Brian Davis ‘89 Endowment

Denotes increased ranking.

PERPETUAL FOUNDERS

The following individuals, groups, and businesses are Catholic High School Perpetual Founders. Their ongoing support of the mission of the school and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart is deeply appreciated. Having donated $100,000 or more to CHS in their lifetime, we salute and honor this esteemed group of Perpetual Founders for their continued commitment to the advancement efforts at CHS.

PERPETUAL FOUNDER - SACRED HEART

- $500,000 -

Mr. and Mrs. James M. Bernhard Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. James A. Burke ’86

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin H. Couhig

CHS Alumni Office

CHS Men’s Club

CHS Mothers’ Club

Mr. and Mrs. Norman A. Deumite Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan D. Jumonville ’91

Mr. Gerald H. Marchand ’49

Mrs. Linda K. Marchand

Dr. and Mrs. Claude B. Pennington +

Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation

Ms. Jo Sevin

Mr. Leonce J. Sevin Jr. ‘47 +

Mr. and Mrs. Eugene C. Sykes Jr. ’85

Mr. Charles L. Valluzzo

Mrs. Nancy Valluzzo +

Mr. and Mrs. Chris C. Valluzzo ’87

PERPETUAL FOUNDER - SANCTUARY -

$250,000 - $499,999

Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Couhig ’90

Succession of Evelyn Nelson Davis

Dr. and Mrs. Jacques de la Bretonne

Faulk & Winkler LLC

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Faulk III

Mr. and Mrs. George A. Fischer +

Mrs. Margaret Womack Hart

Guy Hopkins Construction Co.

Mr. and Mrs. H. G. Hopkins ’76 *

Mr. and Mrs. J. Gerard Jolly ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Melancon Jr.

The E.J. and Marjory B. Ourso Family Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Salmon

Mr. and Mrs. Ralph J. Stephens ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Roland M. Toups

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick G. Tullier ’75

Mr. Milton J. Womack Sr. +

PERPETUAL FOUNDER - COINDRE -

$100,000 - $249,999

Mr. and Mrs. Billy J. Aguillard ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Kurt H. Ainsworth ’96

Margie and Ralph Alexander

Mr. and Mrs. David H. Arrighi Sr. ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Barfield Jr. ’82

Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Barnidge

Baton Rouge State Fair Foundation

Brother Donnan Berry, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Frank M. Bologna ’45

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Dr. and Mrs. Redfield E. Bryan Jr. ’55

Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Burke ’89

Cajun Industries, LLC

Mr. Roe F. Cangelosi 1922 +

Col. James F. Coerver ’46

Dr. Michael S. Crapanzano ’80 and Dr. Kathleen Crapanzano

Mr. and Mrs. Danny A. Daniel Sr. ’56

Mr. and Mrs. M. David DiVincenti Sr. ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. DiVincenti Jr. ’73

Mr. John A. Ebner ’87

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Dr. and Mrs. Quentin D. Falgoust ’61

Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Ferachi ’84

Mr. and Mrs. Chris A. Ferrara

Dr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Fourrier ’28 +

Mrs. Frances Gaudin

Mr. Louis B. Gaudin +

Ferdinand J. Guerin, Jr. and Audrey Ann Guerin Living Trust

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. John B. Heroman Jr. ’29 +

Governor and Mrs. Bobby Jindal

Mr. and Mrs. Francis C. Jumonville Jr. ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Michael P. Kirby ’80

Mr. D. Ben Kleinpeter +

L.A.S.B.C., Inc.

Mr. and Mrs. Gary J. Lacombe

Lamar Corporation

Mr. and Mrs. Brandon P. Landry ’97

Mrs. Frances L. Landry +

Mr. Richard H. Lea Jr. ’77

Mrs. Shirley LeBlanc

Mr. V. Price LeBlanc Sr. +

Mr. and Mrs. Ulyesse J. LeGrange ’48

Mr. and Mrs. Gerald H. Marchand Charitable Trust

Dr. and Mrs. Tom J. Meek Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mockler

Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Moran ’86

Moreau Physical Therapy

Mr. and Mrs. Alvin C. Moreau III ’92

Mr. Daniel R. Murray ’63

Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Ourso

Mr. and Mrs. J. Clifford Ourso Sr. ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Panepinto` ’70

Dr. Claude J. Patin +

Estate of Dr. Claude J. Patin +

Mr. and Mrs. William W. Pecue II ’78

Mr. and Mrs. F. Jay Poché, Jr.

Mrs. Camilla R. Pugh

Dr. and Mrs. Vincent O. Rachal

Mr. and Mrs. George H. Reymond 1914 +

Mr. and Mrs. Michael O. Rourke

Dr. Fred J. Ruiz Sr. ’45 +

Mr. and Mrs. M. Wesley Salmon ’91

Dr. and Mrs. Carlton H. Sheely II

Shell Oil Company Foundation

Dr. and Mrs. Stephen L.Sherman

Mr. and Mrs. William L. Steele II

Mr. and Mrs. Jorge L. Tarajano ’80

The Coca-Cola Company

Mrs. Charest D. “Pigeon” Thibaut Jr.

Mr. Charest D. Thibaut Jr. +

Mr. John G. Turner ’78 and Mr. Jerry G. Fischer

United Networks of America

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick C. Valluzzo ’99

Dr. and Mrs. Richard R. Vath

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux

UPCOMING EVENTS

Spiritual

Rosaries

• September 12th and 29th

• October 13th and 27th

• November 17th

• December 13th and 29th

School Liturgies

• September 29th

• December 8th

Bears BINGO and Men’s Club Raffle

Social September 28th

CHS Alumni Tailgate

September 29th

CHS Golf Classic

October 6th

Open House

November 9th

Founders Banquet and Hall of Fame Induction

December 7th

FACILITIES FIT FOR Champions

On Saturday, January 14, 2023, Catholic High dedicated the new Couhig Family Athletic Complex and Dale Weiner Field before the Bears’ soccer team took on Jesuit.

Thanks to the generosity of Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Couhig and Mr. and Mrs. Peter Couhig ’90, the new facility added over 1500 seats, a concession stand, and locker rooms. The Couhig family’s impact will be felt by many CHS student athletes participating in sports such as soccer, lacrosse, and track and field.

On that same day, the playing surface was dedicated to honor former head football coach Dale Weiner. Coach Weiner led the Bears’ football program from 1987-2016 amassing over 300 victories. In 2015, Coach Weiner’s Bears captured the school’s first state championship in football to solidify his Hall of Fame career.

AMETUR COR JESU Loved be the Heart of Jesus

The Sacred Heart of Jesus statue and prayer garden has been relocated to just north of the Main Building, between the Brothers’ Residence and the Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Student Center.

The statue was originally located on the west side of Catholic High School’s campus. According to an article posted in the State-Times in 1958, the seven foot statue was jointly contributed by the Gibbens’ family and the community of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart and was crafted at the Drapato Studios in Chicago Illinois.

The statue was dedicated and blessed on September 7, 1958, and is a memorial to Brother William-Henry, S.C. (Frank E. Gibbens), son of Mr. and Mrs. R.T. Gibbens of Perkins Road who died in 1951.

Location of the Ainsworth Family Clubhouse and the Matthew V. Hopkins ’08 Player Development Center. See the full article on the next page.

The Ainsworth Family Clubhouse and The Matthew V. Hopkins ’08 Player Development Center

A hard-hit ground ball traveled to the left of the second baseman. He scooped it up, threw it to first, and the game was over. Players dog piled, coaches hugged, and the parents and fans celebrated in the stands. The Bears were the 2022 Division I Baseball State Champions; the season ended but the moment will never be forgotten.

That moment, like many other experiences at Catholic High School, was witnessed by those who were present, but supported by countless others. Four years prior to the bears winning the state championship, a vision to create a baseball locker room and hitting facility was presented by Kurt Ainsworth ’95. Kurt, and his brother Kevin ’92, had a desire to upgrade the baseball facility by building a clubhouse for the players and upgrading the batting cages with elite equipment and turf

footing. “I still remember dressing out in my car when I was a player at CHS,” stated Kurt “and I thought the clubhouse would create a safe area for our players to form a strong team bond.”

Kurt’s idea was discussed with Scott Ritter ’93 and Steve Maher ’94 from Ritter Maher Architects, whose firm received the AIA Rose Award for their design of the Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Student Center. Mr. Guy Hopkins ’76, a member of the 1976 State Championship baseball team, whose construction company was on campus building the Grizzly Greats Strength and Conditioning Center, was asked for input. Guy built the batting cages in 2013 and the visitors’ dugout for the baseball team in 2016. He said “improving the baseball facilities is a hobby for me; I love how the stadium and field have improved throughout the years.” With the vision in place, the

group began to think of others who could assist.

Major league veteran and World Series Champion David Dellucci ’91, LSU National Champions’ Tim Lanier ’92, Patrick Coogan ’93, Tulane pitcher Chris Jones ’95 and longtime supporters of the Catholic High baseball program, Mr. Eric Vicknair ’75 and Mr. Mark Carleton ’87, all stepped up to support the build. The following friends and alumni added their expertise to the project as well:

A.J. Nola

Custom Build Player Lockers

Ryan Heck

Cajun Ready Mix Concrete

John Chustz

Chustz Electric

Jimmy Demouy ’69 HVAC

Billy Aguillard ’70Civil Engineering

Jason Coffey ’93Capital Glass

Scott Lanehart ’95Lanehart Paint Contractors

Michael Melek ’96Pro Painters LA

Steven Cheatham ’97Cajun Ready Mix Concrete

Matt Lowe ’98Irrigation

Lead gifts for the project included Kenny and Danna Hodges, Mark and Lisa Barry, and Action Therapy and Wellness Center. These, along with the other 75 parents, friends, and alumni allowed the project to include bullpens next to the batting cages with multiple mounds and synthetic turf, IT upgrades for highspeed Wi-Fi, speakers, TVs, and furniture.

The dedication of the new facility took place on opening day of the 2022 season—a season that ended with a state championship. The moment was reflective for all who attended. Mr. Matthew V. Hopkins ’08, the son of Guy and Missy Hopkins, was a four-year member of the Catholic High School baseball program, and after his time at CHS, went on to have a significant impact on many players as a local youth coach. In 2020, Matthew became ill and lost his life. At the opening day celebration, the batting cages that his father built were dedicated to his life and the facility was permanently named The Matthew V. Hopkins ’08 Player Development Center.

The 2022 baseball season was the first full season that the bears occupied the Ainsworth Family Clubhouse and the Matthew V.

Hopkins ’08 Player Development Center. Head Coach Brad Bass said, “the clubhouse and the Player Development Center are awesome. I’m convinced that giving the guys a place that they can call their own on campus allowed them to become closer as a team and lifelong friends. It played a major role in the state championship season last year.”

photos by Stephen Eisenbraun ’78

THE LETTERMAN C SCULPTURE

A gift from the Class of 2021

Legacy. It is defined as a lasting impact that is described to be lifechanging, shaping the lives of many. For CHS Class of 2021 Alumnus, Man of the Year, and current University of CaliforniaSan Diego senior, Steffek Rainey, the profound impact Catholic High School made on his four years as a CHS student created opportunities that opened doors for his holistic personal growth. Giving back to his school and community was important to him, and he wanted a way to commemorate his time at CHS. Steffek encouraged his classmates to leave their mark on Catholic High School— something symbolic, something inspiring that would stand the test of time. So, what idea could he realistically pursue to gain the support of the school in his senior year? After two years of persistence, vision, investment, and teamwork, on March 21, 2023, the Catholic High School Letterman C Sculpture stood as an iconic symbol of pride for the CHS campus.

The idea originated while Steffek visited numerous universities. Leading up to Steffek’s senior year, he noticed larger-than-life iconic sculptures serving as school-spirited symbols on many of the campuses, most notably at the University of Washington. These sculptures have served as campus monuments for popular photo spots to thousands

of alumni, parents, and prospective students. Imagining how amazing the CHS campus is already, Steffek envisioned an iconic symbol of pride as an added welcoming feature to his school, and what better iconic image than the Catholic High School Letterman C? With all this in mind, the vision of a Letterman C sculpture originated, and with the help of the CHS Advancement Office and the approval of the administration midway through Steffek’s senior year, fundraising plans, campus location and fabrication details were formulated for what would become the Class of 2021 Senior Class gift project.

The Project

Several steps would take place in the process, not to mention skilled experts who made this vision come to life. Standing seven feet tall, five feet wide and one foot deep, the Letterman C sculpture would be fabricated over several months by David Cano and his talented team of fabricators at Iron Design, LLC in Baton Rouge. Made of strong aluminum, “The Letterman C” frame, banding and cross were carefully cut, welded, polished, and primed to perfection in preparation for its final stages of completion.

CHS alumni played a major part in the project as well. Not only did alumni support this project financially, but the completion of the letterman C’s final touches included CHS alumni, Ian McKnight ’03 and Will Rapp ’09, of Custom Colors Paint and Body to apply the spectacular heavy-duty automotive paint coating with the vibrant school colors of orange, black and white. Located near the Westmoreland entrance on the north side of campus, Billy Aguillard ’70 and Steven Cheatham ’97 donated and constructed the concrete pedestal for which the sculpture is permanently placed.

Returning to campus this May and seeing the Letterman C sculpture for the first time, Steffek could not be happier to see his vision finally come to fruition. “What started out as me and a few friends meeting with the Advancement Team to discuss our idea has now grown into a movement of students, alumni, and faculty all coming together with the common purpose to see this project to completion. I’m so happy to see this project take shape over the past few years, and it couldn’t have been done without the efforts of the entire Class of 2021, generous donors, the administration, the Advancement Team, and of course the men

who worked tirelessly to construct the monument,” mentioned Steffek.

It is a proud landmark that can be spotted driving down Government Street. Imagine a prospective student touring campus, or a visiting team arriving for a game, all seeing the giant “Letterman C” sculpture in all its grandeur; a constant reminder of Catholic High’s commitment to excellence to all who enter the campus.” This was Steffek Rainey’s vision and now it is his reality.

Landscaping designs and lighting have yet to be completed. Members of the CHS Class of 2021, fellow CHS alumni, parents and friends are encouraged to donate and support the completion of the 2021 Senior Class Gift Project. If you are interested in participating in this initiative, please visit www.catholichigh.org/give.

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL SECURES GRANT from The Irene W. and C.B. Pennington FoundatioN

We are very happy to announce that The Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation awarded a grant to Catholic High School. The grant will be used to further enhance security around the campus.

Safety of our students, faculty, and staff is of paramount importance. Security of our campus is on the mind of everyone today due to recent events at schools around the country. Catholic High has developed a safety plan that includes surrounding the campus with fencing and gates. The plan includes cameras that are visible around all sections of the campus.

The grant will help to offset the cost of the additional fencing that was installed over the Christmas holidays around the temporary buildings and across the entrance from near the Brothers Residence and baseball field area to the Fine Arts Courtyard. Both sets of fencing are control-access, meaning students and faculty must use their ID to open the gates. This additional fencing now completely closes off the interior areas of the Fine Arts building, main building, old union, and gym buildings, as well as the Ryan Jumonville ’91 Health and P.E. building, and the Centennial Courtyard. We are confident that these additions to campus security will further strengthen the safety of our students and faculty. School safety remains a priority and will be a top priority as we continue to review other areas of improvement to the campus.

Claude B. “Doc” Pennington and his wife, Irene Wells Pennington, officially created the Pennington Foundation in 1982, but the story actually begins in the early 1920s. Doc Pennington began his career as a laborer in the Louisiana oil and gas industry but soon decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a practice in the field of optometry. Following his father’s passing, Doc Pennington returned to his original passion – the oil and gas industry. He purchased Mount Pleasant Plantation, which later became adjacent to one of the largest oil and gas finds in Louisiana history.

Mr. and Mrs. Pennington were adamant in sharing their success with the community and today the Board of Trustees for the Foundation assures that their generosity continues. As mentioned on the web page, the Foundation “strives to continue to not just identify problems in our community, but to identify the unique assets of the South, and to invest in creative solutions that create impact in Louisiana and the world.”

We are very grateful for these grants as it allows the school to fund special projects that are not included in the operating budget of the school

We were thrilled with the turnout and support for the CHS Taste Fair and Auction presented by the CHS Alumni Association and CHS Mothers’ Club held on January 15, 2023. Hundreds of parents, friends and alumni gathered on campus to sample food and beverages from thirty local vendors while bidding on silent auction items! Special thanks to our sponsors, donors, and vendors. It was a memorable night filled with food, fellowship, and fun!

CAREER DAY 2023

On March 29, 2023, we welcomed back CHS alumni from a wide variety of professions for our annual Career Day. Bears who work in industries such as accounting, architecture, engineering, entertainment, finance, healthcare, emergency response, law, information technology, marketing, and sales spent the day with our seniors to offer perspectives on their fields of expertise. After attending the presentations, our seniors were treated to lunch courtesy of CHS corporate partner Raising Canes. Here are a few of our favorite photos from the day. To learn more, head over to catholichigh.org/alumni.

The 16th annual CHS Fishing Rodeo hosted 390 anglers in Fourchon, Louisiana for the 2023 event. CHS alumni, faculty, and current students, and friends joined us for two days of fishing, food, and fellowship. Together with our sponsors and anglers, the CHS Alumni Association raised $70,000 which will help fund the school’s needbased tuition assitance program.

A special thank you goes to the CHS Alumni Association Board of Directors and the CHS Fishing Rodeo Committee for all of their efforts that helped to make this year’s event a huge success.

ADULT LEADERBOARD WINNERS

REDFISH – 8.58 lb – Kevin Terrebonne

SHEEPSHEAD – 5.91 lb – Michael McElveen

SPECKLED TROUT – 4.53 lb – Dustin DeBenedetto

RED SNAPPER – 22.65 lb – Calla Graves

MANGROVE SNAPPER – 7.81 lb – Ramsey Barfield ’12

GROUPER – 12.93 lb – Thomas Engquist

FLOUNDER - 1.86 lb - Donald Schexnayder

COBIA – 21.25 lb – Sutton Fourrier

YELLOWFIN TUNA - 48.39 lb– Steven Savoie

DOLPHIN (MAHI) – 2.68 lb – Julie Olinde

BLACKFIN TUNA - 13.45 lb - Preston Perry

YOUTH LEADERBOARD WINNERS

SPECKLED TROUT - 2.21 lb - Porter Finnan

SHEEPSHEAD - 6.09 lb - Bonnielyn Rogers

RED SNAPPER – 16.36 lb - Sutton Fourrier

CHALLENGE

102.35 lb

Trey Bradford ’87

OFFSHORE GRAND SLAM

50.83 lbs Bryan Day

5 REDSNAPPER STRINGER

102.35 lb Trey Bradford ’89

9.09 lbs Christopher Landry ’00

5 MANGROVE STRINGER

7.35 lbs Coleman Fox

3 REDFISH STRINGER

24.96 lbs Kevin Terrebonne

5 TROUT STRINGER

17.61 lbs Ed Sexton

390 $70,000

GARRET GRAVES ’90 RED SNAPPER

JACOB MEEK ’17 INSHORE GRAND SLAM

The CHS Office of Alumni

TITLE SPONSOR

Golden Bear

Big River Glass

BJM Construction, LLC

Build Commercial Construction

Cadence Insurance

Cocreham Brick

i2 Tickets

Lyons Specialty Company

Milton Womack

Grizzly Sponsors

John Balance Photography

Belus Group

Cajun Foam Insulation

Delval Flow Controls USA

Elifin Realty

Facilities Maintenance Mgmt.

FiTec Cast Nets

G.T. Michelli Co.

John M Morain Art

Law Office of James D. Prescott III

Premier Geotech and Testing

Vaughn Roofing & Sheetmetal

Bruin Sponsors

Abel Hall Family Wealth Partners

Custom Colors

Evans Investment Advisors

Himmel’s Architectural Door & Hardware

Hart Mailboxes

Our Lady of the Lake Rotolo Consultants Inc

Sean A. Smith Orthodontics

Sigma Consulting Group Star Service MAY

Relations would like to thank the following sponsors for their support of the 2023 Fishing Rodeo:

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS

CHS's own Warren Capone '70 was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. An All-City/All-Parish Linebacker and City Heavyweight Wrestling Champion at CHS, Capone went on to be a 3-year starter on the LSU Tiger Football team, be named a 1st-Team All-American for two years, and play in the NFL and World Football League. Congratulations, Warren!

We celebrated Catholic Schools Week by gathering to honor the 2023 Distinguished Graduates from schools across the Diocese of Baton Rouge. Catholic High School’s Distinguished Graduate for 2023 is Mr. Hal D. Dupuy ’73. Mr. Dupuy served at CHS’s Director of Advancement from 2007 to 2013. His devotion to the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart is inspiring, and he is still an active supporter of the school’s alumni and advancement activities.

Dr. Raphael Malbrue ’07 has been named the Director of the Center for Comparative Medicine and an Attending Veterinarian. He completed his undergraduate and veterinary school training at Tuskegee University, then went on to complete a residency program in Laboratory Animal Medicine at Louisiana State University. In conjunction with his residency program, Dr. Malbrue also completed a Master of Science degree in Biomedical and Veterinary Medical Sciences through the Department of Pathobiological Sciences at Louisiana State University and became a Certified Aquatic Veterinarian (WAVMA). He also has an extensive background working in veterinary private practice and emergency medicine. Prior to his position at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Dr. Malbrue served as a Clinical Veterinarian and Director of Large Animal Experimental Surgery at The Ohio State University.

Our annual legacy photographs are a time-honored tradition where bears of the past accompany their sons, grandsons, and great-grandsons for a photo prior to the incoming student’s first year at CHS. It is humbling to see our alumni choose to send their loved ones to walk the same halls they did as young men. It’s MORE than 4. It’s a Lifetime!

Joseph Aguillard ’27, Billy Aguillard ’70

Josh Andricain ’27, Juan Andricain ’93

Cole Bahlinger ’27, David Bahlinger + ’47

Evan Bass ’27, Mark Bass ’00

John Belanger ’27, Bobby Hebert + ’39

Jack Bernhard ’27, Charles Bernhard ’42

Brock Blanchard ’27, Guy Blanchard ’89

Luca Boneno ’27, Kevin Boneno ’90

John Bradford ’27, John S. Bradford ’64

Gray Broussard ’28, Scott Broussard ’89

Charles Bugea ’28, John Bugea ’28, John Bugea ’00

Landon Buuck ’27, James Albert Gremillion + ’51

Walker Caro ’27, Bradley Caro ’96

Kaleb Casto ’27, Keith Baechle + ’71

Elijah Chustz ’28, Tim Chustz ’96

George Dalmau ’28, Alex Dalmau ’88

William Dantin ’27, Timothy Dantin ’80

Cooper Dupree ’27, John Ben Ragusa ’59

Mark Evans ’27, Harrel Cade ’43

Ben Faulk ’27, David Faulk ’88

Hudson Foy ’28, Adam Foy ’00

Carson Frederick ’27, Stephen Frederick ’93

Braeden Gasser ’27, Drew Gasser’92

Conner Gautreau ’28, Robert E. Amrhein + ’22

Grant Gautreau ’28, Scott Gautreau ’01

Jayden Gifford ’27, Wesley Gifford ’98

Bryce Guerin ’27, Rustin Tyler Guerin ’00

Oliver Hargrave ’28 , Wilbur Daniel Nesbit + ’39

John Thomas Hart ’28, Bryan Glen Hart ’98

Reece Harvey ’28, Kyle Harvey ’98

Emmett Herasymiuk ’28, Adolph Brooks Cronan, Jr. ’52

Ty Holden ’27, Manuel Estalote Knight, Sr + ’38

Carter Hymel ’27, Jeffrey F. Hoffmann ’79

Collin Jastram ’27, Brasse Macaluso + ’37

Scott Johnson ’27, Scott Henry McKneely Johnson ’81

Maxwell Jones ’28, Gordon Jones ’99 + (with Uncle Chris Jones ’91)

Patrick Kelly ’27, James P Kelly ’92

Grayson King ’27, Darren Patrick King ’93

Adrian Landry ’27, Frederick Gatz Landry + ’50

Grey Loup ’27, Daniel Loup ’97

Cole Louque ’28, Clive Bridges, Sr. +’40

Kenneth Manda ’28, Kenneth James Manda, Jr. ’00

Edward McBride ’27, William “Billy” Joseph Heroman, Sr. + ’40

Weston Millard ’27, Gerald Millard ’97

Blaze Miller ’28, Clyde Messenger III ’67

Thomas Moran ’27, Michael Christopher Moran ’86

Makai Owens ’27, Reginald Owens ’93

Luke Partin ’28, Charles Allen Partin III ’99

Preston Perry ’27, Ryan Perry ’95

Grant Pou ’27, Jack Moisant Pou ’97

Lions Ray ’27, E. Hiram Hebert + ’27

Kooper Rome ’27, Kerry Rome ’87

Devon Rosendahl ’27, Santo Calandro ’58

Cade Sandefer ’28, Sam Caruso + ’43

Ellis Schwartzenburg ’27, Jason Schwartzenburg ’97

John Scrantz ’27, Louis S.Prejean Jr. + ’62

Brock Seguin ’28, Brad Seguin ’90

Madden Sellers ’28, Maxwell Paul Sellers ’95

Luke Talamo ’27, Patrick Talamo ’90

Landon Talbot ’28, Drew Talbot ’00

Peyton Trahan ’27, Gregory Dale Trahan ’99

Andrew Walters ’27, John Lucas Walters ’91

Philip Wesley ’27, Camille Benjamin Cherbonnier ’63

Rylan West ’28, William West ’79

James Wilkinson ’28, Joshua Wilkinson ’96

Livingstone Bennett ’28, Calvin I. Fabre ’85, Clifton Frank Fabre ’41

Brandon Blanchard ’27, Paul Brandon Blanchard ’97, Maximin Paul Blanchard ’71

Brady Brumfield ’27, Victor Brumfield Jr. ’98, Victor Brumfield Sr. ’76

Marcus Cashen ’27, Timothy Marcus Cashen ’82, Donald Claude Marrero + ’51

William Higginbotham ’27, William Frank “Billy” Bourdier ’55, Willard Anthony Bourdier ’29

William Kleinpeter ’27, Dr. Kenny Kleinpeter ’92, Kenneth Phillip Kleinpeter, Sr. ’73

Samuel LeBlanc ’28, Thomas Jude Melancon ’82, Clarence Joseph Melancon ’42

Isaac McKnight ’27, Jamey Crump ’79, George Kadair Sr. ’38

Samuel Messenger ’28, Kelly Taylor Messenger ’94, Michael Quincy Nolan + ’45

Blake Phistry ’27, Ryan Joseph Phistry ’98, Philip George Phistry, Jr. ’65

Alexander and Bryce Warthen ’27, Louis Arthur Carville + ’08, Chester James Carville + ’32

Carter Barfield ’28, Louis Ramsey Barfield ’89, Thomas Atkinson Barfield + ’53, Daniel Ramsey Barfield + ’17

Robert David ’28, Brad David ’98, Thomas Balhoff ’65, Robert David + ’46

Anthony DiVincenti ’28, David DiVincenti Jr. ’01, Michael David DiVincenti Sr. ’70, Frank Bologna + ’45

Charles Jeansonne ’27, Louis Jeansonne ’93, Louis Oliver Jeansonne III ’63, Samuel F. D’Agostino ’35

Max Kleinpeter ’27, Kevin Kleinpeter ’92, Vincent A. Kleinpeter, Jr. ’67, Vincent A. Kleinpeter, Sr. ’46

Gabe Mayhall ’28, Van Mayhall ’92, Van Robinson Mayhall, Jr. ’64, Van Robinson Mayhall, Sr. ’37

John Stolzenthaler ’28, Stan Stolzenthaler IV ’92, Stanford C Stolzenthaler, III ’71, Stanford C Stolzenthaler, Jr. + ’45

Hayden Wintz ’27, Thomas Wintz, Jr .’90, Thomas W Wintz, Sr. + ’65, Theodor E Donaldson ’51, John A Wintz, Jr. + ’35

Brooks Carville ’27, David Carville ’96, David John Carville Jr. ’64, David John Carville Sr. + ’32, Louis A Carville + ’00

Graydon Fourrier ’27, Nathan Fourrier ’96, Andre Fourrier ’68, Lawrence Fourrier ’26, J.D. Lawrence Fourrier +

Alumni inthenews

1976

MARK MILLER ’76 recently finished a half marathon a few weeks shy of his 65th birthday.

1992

VAN MAYHALL, JR. ’92 has been listed in the 2023 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business for Louisiana in Corporate/ M&A Law.

1993

SCOTT YERBY ’93 has been promoted to VP of Sales of CASPR Technologies. The company’s products are designed to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of disease transmission in various settings, including hospitals, offices, schools, and public transportation.

1995

JOEY COCO ’95 CEO of Forte and Tablada, received the A. B. Paterson Award for an Engineer in Management presented by the Louisiana Engineering Society.

1997

BRIAN HIGHTOWER ’97 and his wife Jessica welcomed to their family their daughter, Ruby Lorraine, on February 16, 2023.

1999

JERMAINE JACK ’99 and his wife Krystin announce the birth of their son, Carter Harrison, on December 10, 2022. They currently reside in Columbia, SC.

2004

DONOVAN MCCLELLAND ’04 and his wife, Erin Schexnaydre, announce the birth of their first child, son Axel Ronan Thor born November 27, 2022. They reside in Umea, Sweden.

2006

SHANE FIRMIN ’06 and his wife Caitlin proudly announce the birth of their second child, a daughter, Collins Elise born on July 8, 2022 at 3:10pm, 7 lbs 7 ozs, 20 3/4 inches long.

2008

MATTHEW ARRIGHI ’08 and his wife, Jennifer Kimball Arrighi (SJA 2008), announce the birth of their baby boy, Luke James born on January 17, 2023.

2010

MICHAEL DUKE ’10 Elliot James Duke was born on May 4, 2023.

DONALD “SCOTT” LANDRY ’10 and his wife, Ashley, welcomed their son, Graham Scott Landry, on June 13, 2022

2011

MATTHEW LANGLOIS ’11 and his wife Lauren welcomed their first child, son Stephen Michael Langlois on July 8, 2022.

2015

ZACHARY RYNE MINTON ’15 married Alyse Anne Soileau on December 16, 2022, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington, LA. Before their wedding, Zach graduated from LSU with a degree in Sports Administration. He will be teaching history and coaching football and lacrosse at St. Benedict at Auburndale High School in Memphis, TN, where he and Alyse now reside.

LANDON TUJAGUE, M.D. ’15 graduated Summa Cum Laude from LSU and is a recent graduate of the LSU Medical School in Shreveport, LA. He was honored by the Rotary Club International, with a Scholarship and awarded the Dr. Davidson Sharon Waddell award for Orthopedic Excellence in recognition of the practice of Orthopedic Surgery. He started his 5-year residency in Orthopedics at LSU Shreveport in July.

2016

JASON ATTUSO JR. ’16 married Lily Rennhoff Attuso (SJA ‘16) on August 5, 2022. The ceremony was

held at Christ the King Catholic Church followed by a reception at The Club at Union Square on the LSU campus. The couple graduated from LSU in 2020 and currently reside in Miami, FL. where Jason is studying at Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine and Lily is working as a speech pathologist.

DANIEL GUNN ’16 passed the CPA Exam with an average grade of 92 ( a score of 75 is passing). He also completed his first year at the LSU Law Center with a GPA of 3.8, which ranked him #4 out of 204 students. He was named to Law Review.

2017

JOSH BROOKS ’17 graduated from LSU in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He is now living in Redmond, WA working for Elon Musk’s Space X as a Space Laser Engineer.

2019

KARSTEN BROWN ’19 graduated from the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) June 1, 2023, with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force. At the Air Force Academy, he was a member of the Wings of Blue Parachute Team, the Cadet Aeronautical Council, and the Way of Life Committee. Karsten will return to USAFA for a casual assignment as a parachute instructor before heading to Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, Mississippi for Undergraduate Pilot Training.

2021

JACK MATTHEWS ’21 is currently in his 3rd year at Columbia University. He is president of Sigma Nu Fraternity and a staff writer for the Columbia Independent. Jack is interned this summer with Rep. Garret Graves and Sen. John Kennedy. He is majoring in Economics and Political Science with plans to attend law school.

MEMORIAL and HONORARY GIFTS

THERE ARE MANY special occasions during our lives when we choose to memorialize or honor in a special way those we hold dear. The following are acknowledged for their gifts to Catholic High School from January 1, 2023 through June 29, 2023 in honor or memory of loved ones. Please remember these alumni and friends, as well as their families, in your prayers.

Memorial Gifts

Dr. John B. Atkinson Sr. ’48

Mr. and Mrs. Danny Winchester

Mr. Sidney V. Arbour Jr. ’31

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Carl Babin

Ms. Susannah Babin

Mr. Lawrence J. Bahlinger ’60

Dr. Gary P. Mayeux and Dr. Allyson B. Mayeux

Mr. George P. Balhoff

Mr. and Mrs. S. Vincent Arbour III ’72

Mr. Thomas A. Barfield Sr. ’53

Dr. Louis R. Barfield ’89 and Dr. Lauren M. Barfield

Mr. John N. Barnett

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Lanneau

Mr. Aaron P. Belanger ’13

Dr. and Mrs. Robert M. Branstetter III ’89

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. Fred J. Borne Jr. ’71

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin M. Southwick ’71

Mr. and Mrs. James R. Davis Jr. ’71

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne M. Martin ’71

Mr. and Mrs. E. G. Boehringer Jr. ’71

Mr. Richard K. Domas ’71

Mr. John N. Giamalva ’71

Mr. and Mrs. Alan D. Krouse

Mr. Bryan P. Boudet ’92

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth P. Kleinpeter Jr. ’92

Mr. William B. Greene ’92 and Mrs. Stephanie Greene

Mr. and Mrs. Mackie E. Wall III ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Callen Schramm

Mrs. Shonda R. Boudet

Mr. Claude J. Broussard Sr.

Mr. Greg Boyd

Mr. Benjamin C. Brown ’99

Dr. Jeremy S. Speeg ’99 and Dr. Emily E. Speeg

Dr. and Mrs. William F. Hagemann

Mr. Christopher S. Callegan ’84

Dr. and Mrs. Jon Traxler

Mr. Alfred J. Carville Sr. ’30

Mr. and Mrs. Duane LeBlanc

Mrs. Audry Cashio

Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. LeBlanc ’75

Mr. Paul F. Cashio

Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. LeBlanc ’75

Mrs. Ella R. Chapman

Mr. and Mrs. James McCartt

Dr. Joseph R. Chustz Jr. ’55

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Walter L. Comeaux II

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. John L. Crochet Jr. ’54

Mr. and Mrs. Ernest A. Gremillion ’54

Mr. Frank J. Culotta Jr. ’59

Mr. and Mrs. William F. Bourdier Sr. ’55

Mrs. Sylvia Darce

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan O. Neustrom ’00

Mr. John L. Daniel Jr ’73

Ms. Debbie Daniel

Mr. Brian T. Davis ’89

Dr. and Mrs. David Assaf IV ’89

Dr. Ross J. DeNicola Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Ross J. DeNicola III ’83

Mr. Denver R. Denison ’16

Mr. Blair P. Bogan ’16

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. Parkes P. Winder ’16

Mr. and Mrs. Leland Denison Jr.

Mr. Arthur C. DeOliveira ’90

Ms. Amy M. DeOliveira

Mr. Christopher J. Dimattia ’94

Ms. Gina Sommers

Ms. Angele M. Dumestre

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Booth ’93

Mr. P. Ryan Esnard ’97

Mr. and Mrs. W. David Butler

Mr. Roland L. Fryou ’56

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. Reech ’83

Dr. and Mrs. Robert P. St. Amant

Mr. Kevin C. Franklin ’93

Mr. and Mrs. Jay Fertitta

Brother Aquin Gauthier, S.C. ’55

Dr. and Mrs. Robert P. St. Amant

Mr. James P. Giblin II ’95

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Judge Douglas M. Gonzales Sr. ’55

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. John A. Graves

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. William B. Greene Jr.

Mr. William B. Greene ’92 and Mrs. Stephanie Greene

Mr. Charles D. Hotard ’57

Ms. Susanne Heroman

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Hotard ’85

Mr. Davis C. Hotard ’89

Mr. Thomas H. Harmon Sr. ’60

Lt. Col. and Mrs. Stephen H. Harmon Jr. ’58

Mrs. Janet Hearin

Mr. Carroll J. Haydel ’53

Mr. and Mrs. Lynn J. Webre Jr. ’53

Mr. Kyle M. Jackson ’07

Mr. A. Austin Gerald ’09

Dr. William O. Jeansonne ’52

Dr. and Mrs. Robert V. Cazayoux ’51

Mr. Patrick B. Kennedy Sr. ’52

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Adrian E. Kaiser Jr. ’47

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Treigle

Dr. Hypolite T. Landry Jr. ’44

Mr. J. Howard Kadair ’62

Mr. Matthew Scott Littlefield

Mr. and Mrs. David J. Boneno ’87

Mr. Sidney M. Longwell ’56

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Ms. Marta H. McCarron

Ms. Nancy P. Herin

Mr. Robert L. McCarron Jr.

Mrs. Julia B. McGuire

Mr. and Mrs. J. Pierre Boudreaux Sr. ’59

Dr. and Mrs. T. C. Morgan Jr.

Dr. and Mrs. Bernard Eagleton

Mr. Jacob M. Meek ’17

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. and Mrs. John T. Meek II ’87

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Terito Jr.

Mr. Michael F. Melsheimer

Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. D’Agostino

Mr. Peter P. Melancon Jr. ’44

Mr. and Mrs. Christian P. Aucoin ’97

Mr. P. J. Mills Jr. ’51

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Byron M. Monroe ’91

Mr. and Mrs. John S. Hightower

Mr. and Mrs. T. Gerald Snider IV ’92

Mr. and Mrs. John H. Bateman

Mr. Samuel J. Montalbano ’55

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Wilbur D. Nesbit ’39

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Hargrave

Mr. Jeffrey D. Nola ’94

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew C. Brown ’94

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Duane Leblanc

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Terito Jr.

Mr. Arthur J. Orillion III ’62

Mr. Steve Fourrier ’61

Mr. Milton M. Ourso Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Louis J. Bonnecaze Jr. ’60

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Dr. and Mrs. R. Mark Conger

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Honorary Gifts

Mr. Austin G. Anding ’23

Ms. Tonya Gautreau

Mr. Benjamin P. Bailey ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bailey

Mr. Rafe M. Bailey ’26

Mrs. Mellie Bailey

Mr. Wade B. Bailey ’26

Mrs. Mellie Bailey

Mr. Cody M. Bankston ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Bankston

Mr. Thaddeus J. Bobo ’24

Ms. Dana Inzinna

Mr. and Mrs. J. Pierre Boudreaux Sr. ’59

Mr. Zachary P. Morgan ’21

Mr. Chase C. Brouillette ’16

Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Brouillette

Mrs. Lauren Fitch

Mr. and Mrs. J. Pat Gibllin

Mr. and Mrs. J. Ray Heil ’56

Dr. and Mrs. John K. Legleu Jr. ’67 Lundy, Lundy, Soileau & South, L.L.P.

Mr. and Mrs. Darrell P. Ourso

Mr. Stephen G. Shaddock

Mr. Ronald E. Stamper

Ms. Yolanda Pacella

Dr. and Mrs. Gregory A. Brandao ’73

Mrs. Judith B. Petrie Bullion

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald J. Bourgeois ’61

Mr. and Mrs. Hunter Greene

Mr. and Mrs. C. Michael Hart

Old Goodwood Village Homeowner’s Association, LLC

Mr. Louis S. Prejean Jr. ’62

Mr. and Mrs. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Billy R. Prochaska

Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy M. Vidrine

Ms. Wildred C. Quinlan

Mr. and Mrs. John T. Meek II ’87

Dr. Alan R. Romans ’58

Mr. Charles F. Brousseau ’75

Mrs. Estelle Tees

Dr. Daniel J. Richardson ’69

Mr. and Mrs. Keith Carter

Ms. Chloe DeRouen

Ms. Rose DeRouen

Ms. Jeanie Jonas

Ms. Jana Metz

Ms. Rose L. Michel

Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Poche Jr.

Dr. and Mrs. Steven Raymond

Mr. Brennan M. Campesi ’21

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Campesi

Mr. Grant J. Campesi ’23

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Campesi

Mr. Matthew P. Castelluccio ’25

Dr. and Mrs. Jeryl and Kennon Breaux

Mr. Brennan H. Coco ’24

Ms. Leslie A. Frazier

Mr. Branden J. Coniglio ’14

Mr. and Mrs. Jarrod J. Coniglio

Mr. William N. Creech ’23

Mrs. Katherine Creech

Mr. Ethan M. Crochet ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Horace P. Crochet Jr. ’92

Mr. Davis F. Dawes ’25

Mr. and Mrs. John Dawes

Mrs. Bonnie Richardson

Ms. Shannon Scott

Dr. Alan R. Romans ’58

Mrs. Estelle Tees

Mr. Craig E. Samaha ’71

Mr. and Mrs. Brent J. Samaha ’68

Mr. Craig Sauviac

Ms. Denise Sauviac

Mrs. Evelyn Smith

Mr. Gary Smith

Mr. Greg A. Sollie

Mr. and Mrs. Duane Leblanc

Mr. Ross J. Goodrum ’09

Mr. John B. Starring ’55

Mr. and Mrs. Blake A. Hodges ’83

Mr. Doyle J. Suarez Jr. ’40

Mrs. Doyle Suarez

Mr. B. Barrow Switzer ’92

Mr. Jerry B. Switzer Jr.

Mr. Travis W. Wall ’89

Ms. Susannah Babin

Mr. and Mrs. David J. Boneno ’87

Mr. and Mrs. Mark T. Emonet ’87

Shows, Cali, and Walsh, L.L.P.

Mr. and Mrs. Felix S. Weill

Mr. E. Michael Willis ’11

Mr. and Mrs. Earl R. Willis

Mr. John Russell DeMoss ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Darren DeMoss

Mr. Thomas R. Engquist ’26

Ms. Catherine Stephens

Mr. and Mrs. T. Ryan Engquist

Mr. and Mrs. John M. Engquist

Dr. and Mrs. Ronaldo Funes

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Funes ’89

Mr. Patrick L. Gaudet ’15

Mr. and Mrs. Drew Gaudet

Mr. Andrew M. Hansen ’24

Ms. Barbara A. Graphia

Mr. Coen V. Holloway ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Holloway Jr.

Mr. Cooper Z. Holloway ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Mark Holloway Jr.

Mr. John H. Jenkins ’23

Mr. Jeff Jenkins

Mr. Derrick D. Jones ’96

Mr. William Bertaut

Mr. Ryder W. Kerth ’23

Mr. and Mrs. David Kerth

Mr. Caldwell D. Kerth ’25

Mr. and Mrs. David Kerth

Brother Clifford King, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Serpas

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kitchell

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Funes ’89

Mr. and Mrs. Francis E. Kleinpeter ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Duvic

Mr. Lucas W. Lawrence ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Will Lawrence

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas R. Logsdon ’02

Mr. Chase C. Brouillette ’16

Honorary Gifts Continued

Mr. Edward C. Mayeux ’23

Mr. and Mrs. Miles W. Mayeux

Mr. and Mrs. James Magette

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Raley

Brother Malcolm Melcher, S.C. Father David L. Dawson III ’92

Mr. Carter R. Mims ’22

Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Mims

Mr. and Mrs. Adam M. Morgan ’02

Mr. and Mrs. Mark L. Morgan

Mr. Riley A. Polito ’26

Mr. Thomas A. Polito ’01

Mr. Austin J. Roberson ’25

Mr. Chad Roberson

Mr. Brett A. Robinson ’02

Mr. and Mrs. Jarrod J. Coniglio

Mr. Bennett C. Saia Jr. ’22

Mr. and Mrs. Bennett C. Saia ’90

Mr. Max R. Schexnailder ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Marc Schexnailder

Mr. Jacob J. Sommers ’25

Ms. Gina Sommers

Mr. Elijah B. Stockwell ’26

Mr. John Stockwell

MEMORIAM

Mr. Aiden L. Strief ’27

Dr. and Mrs. Pressley Campbell

Mr. Michael E. Sutton ’23

Mr. and Mrs. Scott A. Ritter ’93

Mr. Alek C. Tanner ’22

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Tanner

Mr. Lucas J. Tanner ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Tanner

Mr. Kohl Daniel Thomas ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Oliver C. Thomas III

Mr. Kollin Tyrese Thomas ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Oliver C. Thomas III

Mr. Bradley E. Thornton ’17

Mr. and Mrs. Lyman E. Thornton III

Mr. Gerald E. Tullier

Margie and Ralph F. Alexander

Mr. and Mrs. Hugo N. Andricain Jr. ’89

Mr. and Mrs. James G. Arbour ’73

Mr. Reece M. Babin ’13

Mr. and Mrs. Brian P. Balhoff ’01

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Mr. and Mrs. J. Pierre Boudreaux Sr. ’59

Honorable and Mrs. Richard L. Bourgeois Jr. ’94

Dr. and Mrs. Gregory A. Brandao ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Haze C. Brignac ’90

Dr. and Mrs. Michael O. Carleton ’85

Mr. and Mrs. Austen M. Delahaye ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Faulk III

Mr. and Mrs. C. Philip Guercio ’69

Ms. Nancy P. Herin

Mr. and Mrs. J. Gerard Jolly ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Francis C. Jumonville Jr. ’73

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Perry F. Key ’78

Mr. and Mrs. S. Stephan Kinsella ’83

Mr. and Mrs. Peter R. Mansur ’62

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mockler

Mr. and Mrs. J. Michael Orlesh Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. C. Davis Prescott ’01

Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Rousseau

Mr. and Mrs. John R. Schempf ’90

Mr. and Mrs. L. James Segar III ’90

Mr. and Mrs. Stuart G. Sonnier ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Gerald E. Tullier

Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy M. Vidrine

Mr. and Mrs. Lynn J. Webre Jr. ’53

Mrs. Cheryl V. Welborn

Mr. Jeffrey P. Williams ’87

Mr. Benjamin M. Wallace ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Alderman

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Wallace

Mr. Caleb M. White ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Cedric White

Mrs. Shirley Brown

Mr. Danny R. Woods II ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Danny Woods

AS OF JUNE 29, 2023, the following alumni and friends of CHS have passed away since the last issue of Bear Facts. Please remember them and their families in your prayers.

Mr. Dupuy H. Anderson Jr. ’68

Mr. Lawrence J. Bahlinger ’60

Mr. George P. Balhoff

Mr. Ronald J. Bergeron ’64

Mr. Fred J. Borne Jr. ’71

Judge William H. Brown

Mr. Rhett P. Bunch ’61

Mr. Byron J. Campagna ’52

Mr. James E. Champagne ’62

Mr. Caleb T. Favaloro ’14

Mr. Roland L. Fryou ’56

Mr. Thomas H. Harmon Sr. ’60

Mr. Carroll J. Haydel ’53

Mr. Stephen M. Jacob ’63

Mr. Timothy L. Joiner ’79

Mr. Gregory L. Kadair Sr. ’64

Mr. Anthony R. Lacombe ’11

Dr. Hypolite T. Landry Jr. ’44

Mr. Matthew Scott Littlefield

Ms. Kelly Orillion

Mr. Arthur J. Orillion III ’62

Mr. Milton M. Ourso Jr.

Ms. Yolanda Pacella

Mr. Howard B. Parker III ’72

Mrs. Judith B. Petrie Bullion

Mr. Billy R. Prochaska

Dr. Daniel J. Richardson ’69

Mr. James R. Tucker ’50

Dr. Williams D. Wall IV

Mr. Travis W. Wall ’89

Mr. Mason Glenn Wilson ’16

Mrs. Thelma Wright

Scrapbooks belonging to CHS Alumnus and Hall of Famer Marvin Ourso ’42 and Sheldon Ourso. The books contain newspaper articles, a diploma, and various programs from different CHS events. Donated by Darrell Ourso.

A letterman jacket from 1971. Donated by Kevin G. Romeo ‘71.

Two CHS Coronation programs from 1950 and 1951. Donated by a friend of CHS.

A blue and gold Key Club vest. Donated in memory of Greg

Please contact Margie Alexander at malexander@catholichigh.org if you have treasures from years past.

CHS Archives Treasures of the Past

A group photo of the 1933 State Boxing Champions including CHS alumni Jimmy Brosseau, Kelly and Myles Manno.

Guercio ’67.

Sports in the

BY DAVID BUTLER ’77

One day in 2013, Cardiologist Dr. Carl Luikart ’72 was approached by his nurse telling him that a Willie Titus was up front and wanted to see him. Luikart asked if it was Willie Mac Titus. Although Luikart was not accepting new patients, he immediately told his nurse to put him in a room.

Luikart instantaneously knew the name as his mind flooded back to 1969 when Catholic High and McKinley played basketball to mark the first time a predominantly white school in the parish met a black school in athletic competition in what was then a segregated school system. More particularly he recalled the following year when McKinley thrashed Catholic High 125-49. Not only could Luikart recall the score, but he also knew the names of every starter for McKinley, including Willie Mac Titus. He stated, “When you get your a** kicked that bad you can never forget who kicked it.”

Luikart and Titus grew up in an era when black/white friendships were uncommon. It was a time of social tension, but Catholic

High Basketball Coach Jimmy Cangelosi ’61 and McKinley Basketball Coach Carl Stewart saw the game as an opportunity for both schools.

Occasionally Luikart would offer a brief prayer on his walk into the hospital to put someone in his life in God’s honor that he could help outside of his area of expertise. He stated: “Catholic High and parents taught me to perform acts of kindness with no expectation of return because of the sacrifice of Jesus.” Although Titus came to see Luikart for his heart condition, Luikart could never have anticipated the friendship that would develop and the impact that they would have on each other’s lives.

As Luikart and Titus reflected on the past they became friends. That friendship grew as they attended various sporting events together. By 2018, Titus’ heart got weaker and weaker such that it became a matter of life and death. Luikart had nothing else to offer Titus so he connected him with Ochsner

in New Orleans. Titus needed a new heart and as he went through the process, either Luikart or his wife, Diana, would attend the appointments with Titus.

Luikart realized Titus would need to demonstrate home support in order to be accepted for treatment. Luikart approached his wife, Diana, who was a nurse, to let Titus stay in the cottage behind their home. Although Diana had only met Titus on one occasion, she readily agreed. Both realized that she would become the primary caregiver. She was instrumental in his care both after his artificial heart implementation as well as after his heart/kidney transplant. That short visit lasted three and a half years as Titus became part of the family.

Luikart noted: “Our kids and grandkids immediately changed because they saw us caring for someone who did not look like them. Willie became someone they loved and cherished. Willie brought a gift of inspiration to us. He has done so much for us.”

Might you with the Sing Spirit ?

I don’t think I am the only one, but sometimes, for no reason, a tune pops into my head and is stuck there, running through my brain. Advertisers are good at finding some pleasing jingle that will creep into your mind and you can’t help but hum it and wish it would go away.

However, sometimes I hear a song echoing inside me, and I don’t want it to get out of my head. It could be a popular tune, but I am referring more to when a religious song echos within. When this happens, I wonder if it is just something psychological, or if it is the Holy Spirit inviting me to draw motivation and comfort from the song and the lyrics.

This idea came to me recently at one of the last school Masses at Catholic High. The school community, sang : “Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled.” This song has stayed with me awhile, and I wonder what God may be saying to me through it.

This particular religious song draws its inspiration from John 14, where Jesus is giving a talk to his disciples at the Last Supper. Jesus knows that his followers will soon be devastated when he is crucified. Though they will be filled with joy and hope at seeing the Resurrected Christ, they also will be confused and afraid by all of this until Jesus sends the Spirit. So, at this moment, at this last meal together, Jesus wants to convince them of his love, encouraging them not to “let your hearts be troubled.”

Why is this song resounding within me? What might this song be saying to all of us who sing/hum it? Well, each of us faces personal struggles and challenges. Jesus assures us that despite difficulties, he will always be with us now and in the future. Also, it is scary to live in such a fractured society these days. Even though we may feel disorientated, if we listen and pray with this song, the Spirit comforts us and motivates us to have Faith even though we are not sure where we are going.

What song(s) may be swirling around in your head? Have you ever allowed a religious hymn to resonate within you? What might God be saying to you through these songs when you ponder them? I find it fascinating that the Bible tells us hundreds of times to “sing to the Lord,” even if we don’t have the talent for it. We are often requested by God in Scripture to even sing a “new song.” This phrase to me means the Spirit continually invites us to see life with freshness and with a hopeful mindset.

Some people look at the Brothers as “elderly.” Interestingly, I never get that impression. Though gifted with years, I find these men continuing “to sing a new song,” not just praising God with their voices, but being open to the newness and vibrancy of the Spirit. They are willing to listen to the songs the Spirit plants within them as they go about their lives of service.

I do not have a “troubled heart” about vocations to the Brothers. I believe there are young men who want to experience a community where there is freshness and where they will be challenged to work for harmony in a jarring world. Is it possible you might be called to a Vocation of being open to hearing new and uplifting songs? Are you willing to experience a prayerful life and let the Spirit hum within you?

CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL