BearFacts Winter 2024

WINTER 2024

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:

Thomas Broussard ’16

David Butler ’77

Dr. Tom Eldringhoff

Lisa Harvey

J.P. Kelly ’92

Scott Losavio ’95

Brother Michael Migacz, S.C.

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

MAR

MAR

APR

MAY

The first semester of the 2023-2024 school year is behind us, and by all reports, it was successful in countless ways. This issue of Bear Facts highlights many of those accomplishments, but so many of the day-to-day ordinary accomplishments that take place at Catholic High School may often be overlooked because they are the norm at CHS. Nevertheless, these normal accomplishments are certainly worth noting.

Critical to the future of Catholic High School is our admissions efforts in recruiting new students. Admissions events and activities now take place throughout the school year but reach a peak in the fall with visits to middle schools, day tours and information meetings, culminating with Open House in November. Applications and placement testing for potential students take place in early December. Sherie LeBlanc, now in her 17th year as CHS Admissions Director, is tireless in her efforts to tell the story of Catholic High School to potential families and her willingness to always find new ways to keep the admissions process exciting and relevant is a significant blessing to CHS.

From potential students through admissions to the engagement of alumni, parents, and friends of CHS, the spectrum of excellence at CHS comes full circle. The CHS Advancement team is another example of dedicated faculty members who continually strive to find new ways to keep graduates and supporters of CHS as engaged members of the school community. The Advancement Office does an incredible job of maintaining financial support of the school through fundraising and events, and the communications team excels at sharing the good news of CHS with our wider community. I am particularly delighted with the number of spiritual and community-building opportunities that the Advancement Office offers to alumni, parents, and friends. Many faith sharing opportunities are available—from prayer services to the saying of the Rosary in the Brothers Chapel—and I highly encourage all alumni and friends to participate. Lenten spiritual opportunities such as the Way of the Cross are coming soon and I invite you to join us.

Catholic High School is certainly known for its outstanding academic reputation through the dedication and work of our teachers, but another significant part of their role at CHS is moderating extra-curricular activities, including clubs and athletics. These activities are an essential aspect of the holistic education we offer and provide an incredibly positive experience for our students. Our club moderators and coaches spend a tremendous amount of time with our young men, and it is often in these areas that they have the greatest impact. Be sure to follow CHS on our website and social media platforms to see first-hand the amazing opportunities that our students are experiencing.

This small list is just a sample of the normal day-to-day accomplishments that take place at CHS, and certainly does not include the majority of what happens in a typical school year. My hope is that by highlighting just a few of these examples, our school community can truly appreciate all that CHS has to offer.

One final note, on September 12, Dominque Birdine and her daughter Miracle were presented the keys to their new Habitat home funded by CHS and Habitat for Humanity of Baton Rouge. Students and faculty members provided the labor for the home in the spring of 2023. Joining in the home presentation was CHS alumnus, Warrick Dunn ’91, who for the fourth time, teamed with CHS and provided furnishings and a down payment for the Birdine home. Included in this edition of Bear Facts are pictures from the home presentation. We are grateful and blessed to have had the opportunity to work with Dominque and her daughter in the building of their home and to be a part of such a special presentation.

I hope everyone has a wonderful, blessed, and prosperous 2024. Go Bears!

Ametur Cor Jesu. Loved be the Heart of Jesus.

New President, new Principal, new Dean of Students—there were a lot of changes as the 2023-2024 school year began, but the commitment of our students, faculty, staff, and parents to the mission of Catholic High is not one of them. We continue to be blessed by our community’s fidelity to the charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, and it has borne fruit in any number of ways.

Every day we begin school with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, led by a student minister. Early this school year we added a prayer, composed by members of our campus ministry department, at the end of our school day. I am happy to share it with you here:

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, We offer gratitude for the blessings of this day and our time together. Guide and protect us during our time away from school. As we open ourselves to the grace of your presence, help us to love like you.

Ametur Cor Jesu!

On Friday, September 29, we celebrated a liturgy commemorating the foundation of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart 202 years ago on September 30, 1821. For that Mass, we encouraged students to honor the brothers and the Mass by voluntarily wearing ties. The vast majority of our students chose to participate, and the spirit of that liturgy was particularly powerful. We have continued to ask our students to wear ties for our school Masses, and the majority of them are doing so. I can’t tell you how encouraging it is to see so many young men choosing to honor our celebrations of the Eucharist in this way. Credit goes to the students who have been instrumental in encouraging their peers to wear a tie, especially members of our student ministry team and the leadership of our student council.

Academically, our students are performing at a high level. This fall we learned that we have 17 national merit semifinalists, nine commended students and 10 nationally recognized Hispanic scholars. We have 129 AP scholars, recognized both for their scores and the number of AP tests they have passed. With all of that, the college board honored us this year as a silver member of the AP school Honor Roll. As the 2022-2023 school year concluded, our graduating seniors had earned 1060 college credits either in either AP or dual enrollment classes.

Our students have also achieved significant success in extracurriculars and athletics. Seven of our band students were selected as members of the LMEA District IV Honor Band, and the CHS/SJA choir placed 17 students in the LMEA All-State Mixed and Treble All-State choirs, more than any other choir in our district, and a record number for our choir. In athletics, our swim team earned a convincing state championship, defeating runner-up Jesuit by 110 points, and our football team won the Division I Select State championship with a resounding victory over Acadiana in the Superdome.

So, it’s been a full fall, with much more to come in the spring. Regardless of the activity, our commitment to a holistic education for our young men remains the same, and I expect to have more good news about our students’ accomplishments when the next Bear Facts comes around.

Ametur Cor Jesu! Loved be the Heart of Jesus!

Dr. Tom Eldringhoff

“It is such an honor for me to be able to represent myself, my community, and my school through this award, and I hope to follow in the legacy of students before me and leave my own mark on CHS.

Once in awhile a student comes along who makes a lasting impact on my life and career - Jackson is definitely one of those students. As his choir teacher throughout his 8th grade and high school career, I have watched him grow into an extraordinary, confident young man who demonstrates leadership ability through his service to his school and community.

-Steve Galliano Choir Director, Catholic High School

Catholic High School announced Senior Jackson Whitlow as Student of the Year for the 20232024 School Year.

“Winning this award means the world to me,” he said. “I am so excited to not only be honored by this school but also to be able to compete on the diocesan level and hopefully beyond.”

An academic and extracurricular all-star, Jackson is a National Merit Semifinalist, an AP Scholar with Distinction, and is part of the ACT 30+ Club. He is a talented vocalist, serving as President of the CHS/SJA Choir. Jackson is also active in a number of other CHS clubs—Robotics, Ambassadors, Student Ministry, Beach Volleyball, and Spanish Club—among a host of other activities. He founded the CHS student organization, My Brother’s Keeper, and volunteers regularly, which earned him the Baton Rouge State Fair Foundation Outstanding High School Volunteer Award.

“

We are so proud of Jackson for representing CHS and being named the Diocesan Student of the Year.

Jackson is a young man with tremendous poise and presence. He manages to adapt to every situation he’s in with grace and confidence. I also love that he is fearless in his approach to any challenge, academic or otherwise. Simply put, he is a delight, and I’m honored to know him.

-Nancy Herin English Teacher, Catholic High School

“

New CHS Rosary Ministry

Creates Custom Catholic High Branded Rosaries

Catholic High School has a new ministry on campus! Earlier this year, while speaking at an ACTS Retreat, Academic Assistant Principal Jared Cavalier was handed a handmade rosary by BJ Bertuccie, father of SJA student and CHS band member Elizabeth Bertucci. His interest was immediately sparked and Mr. Cavalier began researching the process of creating a CHS branded rosary.

Mr. Cavalier teamed up with a company that typically creates custom lapel pins to design the centerpiece of the rosary and the cross.

Cavalier was set on developing the creation of these custom rosaries into a ministry where anyone from students to parents could make rosaries to be given as gifts from Catholic High School.

He took lessons from Mr. Bertucci on how to craft the rosaries. Mr. Bertucci learned from a line of makers who were originally trained by Mr. Merlin Joseph Van Marchand Sr., a longtime resident of Ascension Parish. Mr. Marchand passed in April of 2023, having made and gifted over 18,000 rosaries in his lifetime.

Each CHS rosary is handmade, prayed with, and blessed before it is gifted. Each one comes with a rosary card stating who made it, the date it was made, and the number it is in the series.

As of January 2024, five students and three parents have been trained to make the rosaries. To learn how you can get involved, contact Mr. Jared Cavalier at jcavalier@ catholichigh.org.

CHS Ministry Program Trains Record Number of Student Ministers

This year, the Campus Ministry department trained 112 juniors and seniors to serve in our ministry program. The training involved collaboration with our partners from the other brothers schools in the south, as well as St. Joseph’s Academy and St. Scholastica in Covington.

Student Participation in Campus Ministry Offerings Increases

Two Campus Ministry offerings have increased student participation tremendously this year. My Brother’s Keeper is a group initiated two years ago by Jackson Whitlow ’24. Drawing from his experience of having a sibling with special needs, Jackson encouraged us to start a group for learning about how to interact with those who are not neuro typical. Now in its third year, interest has ballooned and has expanded from our partnership with St. Lillian’s Academy to include the Diocesan REACH program. Our students this year served at a Halloween dance at St. Lillian’s and helped at a REACH program field trip to Barn Hill Preserve.

The Brothers Chapel—A Sanctuary for All

When Catholic High School took over the former Brothers Residence in June 2023, the use of the Brothers Chapel became a priority in planning for the 2023-2024 school year. Full-time access to the chapel has allowed students, parents, alumni and friends to participate in spiritual opportunities, such as the rosary, Eucharistic adoration, Scripture study, and weekly Mass. Additionally, the chapel is utilized by students every day before school, during lunch, and after school for personal prayer time. Campus Ministry has set up a satellite office near the chapel to monitor and facilitate the good things happening there.

Student Group Focuses on Health of the Mind, Body, and Spirit

In its second year, Mind Body Spirit, the brainchild of Gordon Crawford ’24, is a workout group designed for students who are seeking a safe and pressure free space to integrate a healthy body image with their spirituality and mental growth. Twenty-five to thirty students regularly attend these workouts on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school. Experienced Student Ministers lead the workouts in the old weightroom.

New Student Program Celebrates Asian Culture

At the suggestion of Quinn Luu ’25, students with an Asian background can participate in the Asian Cultural Experience (ACE). The group aims to have positive experiences that celebrate Asian heritage and educate others about the variety of foods, dress, language, and celebrations that make up Asian culture. The group shared a meal at a local Vietnamese restaurant in the fall and plans to attend the Vietnamese new year Mass and celebration at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Baton Rouge.

Catholic High School Recognized for the AP School Honor Roll

Congratulations to Catholic High School for being named to the 2023 AP School Honor Roll at the Silver level!

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP program is delivering results and broadening access for students. CHS has developed an AP Program that creates a college-bound culture and gives students opportunities to earn college credit and maximize their college outcomes.

Schools can earn the Honor Roll recognition annually based on their ability to increase their school’s college-bound culture, to provide opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. The AP School Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Catholic High School had 54% of seniors in the class of 2023 take at least one AP exam during high school, 40% of seniors in the class of 2023 scored a three or higher on at least one AP exam, and 19% of seniors in the class of 2023 took five or more AP exams.

AP by the numbers at CHS:

• 22 AP courses offered; 41 sections

• 439 students enrolled in AP courses

• 22 AP teachers

• Over 3000 hours of college credit earned in 2022

College Board’s Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) enables students to pursue college-level studies—with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement, or both—while still in high school. Through AP courses in 38 subjects, each culminating in a challenging exam, students learn to think critically, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue—skills that prepare them for college and beyond. Taking AP courses demonstrates to college admissions officers that students have sought the most challenging curriculum available to them, and research indicates that students who score a three or higher on an AP Exam typically experience greater academic success in college and are more likely to earn a college degree than non-AP students.

Catholic High School Named a Cognia School of Distinction

This year Cognia, the global nonprofit school improvement organization, recognized 33 schools and school systems in the United States and in four other countries across the globe as 2023 Cognia Schools or Systems of Distinction.

“I am pleased to congratulate Catholic High School for their designation as a 2023 Cognia School of Distinction, a program which recognizes public and non-public institutions that exemplify excellence in education and service to learners,” said Dr. Mark A. Elgart, president and CEO of Cognia. Cognia selected Catholic High School as one of the 25 schools and eight systems out of more than 1,100 eligible institutions that hosted a Cognia Accreditation Engagement Review during the 2022-2023 school year.

“Such recognition is impossible without an entire community, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends, who demonstrate a commitment to

the charism of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, day in and day out,” said Dr. Tom Eldringhoff, Principal of CHS.

During the 2022-2023 school year, CHS participated in Cognia’s rigorous Accreditation Engagement Review process, which is grounded in research-based performance standards. The process includes a third-party review of evidence by education experts, interviews, and classroom observations. The review evaluates institutions and seeks evidence of growth in learning, a healthy culture for learning, engaging and high-quality instructional environments, and effective leadership for learning— all characteristics Cognia expects to see in quality schools that also demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement.

“CHS is to be commended for earning the designation as a School of Distinction,” said Dr. Mark A.

Elgart. “Cognia Accreditation is already a mark of school quality recognized around the world. Being named a School or System of Distinction further acknowledges the demonstrated commitment to education quality and a mindset of continuous improvement CHS has for its learners,” Elgart added.

For Cognia Global Network member institutions, Cognia offers an opportunity to earn designation as a school or system of distinction in the year in which an accreditation engagement review is held. Unlike the typical six-year accreditation cycle, this program recognizes institutions that host a Cognia Accreditation Engagement Review within the recognition year and winners carry the designation for one year. Learn more about Cognia Accreditation at Cognia.org.

Nationally Recognized Scholars

Advanced

Placement

Tre’ Austin National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Jackson Bardwell National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Alexander Brown National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Thomas Cagle National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

David Latil National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2025

William Stafford National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Christopher Kennedy National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Blanchard Lagarde National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Caleb Lott National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Van Mayhall National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Joseph Mensman National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Luke Funes National Merit Commended and National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Oliver Hamilton National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Isaac Miller National Merit Semifinalist and National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Cole Mogharrebi National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Adler Rice National Merit Commended and National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Cesar Rico National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2025

Andrew Schmeeckle National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Graham Sellers National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Hunter Ullrich National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Jackson Whitlow National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Luke Wimberley National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Aiden Acosta National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Cole Alberty National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Fernando Cardona National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Gordon Crawford National Merit Commended Scholar Class of 2024

Thomas Crawford National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Ethan Crochet National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Luke Dawson National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

Evan Dayries National Merit Semifinalist Class of 2024

William de Souza National Merit Semifinalist and National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

Joseph Chustz National Hispanic Recognition Scholar Class of 2024

(AP) Scholars

Aiden Acosta AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Cole Alberty AP Scholar Class of 2024

Ryan Alexander AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Jon Philip Antoon AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Tre’ Austin AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Cohen Bajon AP Scholar Class of 2023

Bennett Barber AP Scholar Class of 2023

Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars

Nathan Barbera AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Alexander Brown AP Scholar Class of 2024

Patrick Cargile AP Scholar Class of 2024

Aidan Cole AP Scholar Class of 2023

Luke Dawson AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Jackson Bardwell AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Allen Bares III AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Briggs Bargas AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Christian Black AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Jacques Breaux AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Brock Broussard AP Scholar Class of 2023

Victor Brown AP Scholar Class of 2024

Ryan Burke AP Scholar Class of 2024

William Busenlener AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Thomas Cagle AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Patrick Cangelosi AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Fernando Cardona AP Scholar Class of 2024

Andrew Castel AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Bennett Castro AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Ryan Cedel AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Graham Chambley AP Scholar Class of 2023

Jack Chustz AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Brennan Coco AP Scholar Class of 2024

Ben Couvillion AP Scholar Class of 2023

Gordon Crawford AP Scholar Class of 2024

Thomas Crawford AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

William Creech AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Ethan Crochet AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

David Danielson AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Christopher Day AP Scholar Class of 2024

Evan Dayries AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

William de Souza AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Everett deBlieux AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Ben DeBosier AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

William DeJean AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Drew Devall AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Charles Dirks AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Aidan Duffield AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

John Elliott AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Nicholas Ferrell AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Hayden Fontenot AP Scholar Class of 2023

Grant Fritsche AP Scholar Class of 2023

Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars

Luke Funes AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

George Hebert AP Scholar Class of 2024

Blanchard Lagarde AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Luke Losavio AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Joseph Mensman AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

John Gahagan AP Scholar Class of 2023

Reece Gauldin AP Scholar Class of 2024

Oliver Hamilton AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Daniel Hannie AP Scholar Class of 2023

Andrew Hansen AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Jonathan Hayes AP Scholar Class of 2023

Andrew Heltz AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Luke Hertel AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Daniel Hudson AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Alexander Keaty AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Christopher Kennedy AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Sheldon Labbe AP Scholar Class of 2023

Davis Lamonica AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Blake Landry AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Braydon Larussa AP Scholar Class of 2023

Peyton LeBlanc AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Sean LeBlanc AP Scholar Class of 2024

Jack Lewis AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Caleb Lott AP Scholar Class of 2024

Prescott Marsh AP Scholar Class of 2023

Andrew Matassa AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Grant Mathis AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Carter Mayeux AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Van Mayhall AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

André Miller AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Isaac Miller AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Mark Mills AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Andrew Modenbach AP Scholar Class of 2024

Cole Mogharrebi AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Henri Noel AP Scholar Class of 2023

Matthew Olinde AP Scholar Class of 2023

Conrad Olivier AP Scholar Class of 2023

Kyle Oubre AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Joseph Peak AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Edwin Perrault AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

George Pesch AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Charles Plauche AP Scholar Class of 2024

Advanced Placement (AP) Scholars

Lane Plauche AP Scholar Class of 2024

Bobby Rudy AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Nicholas Schroeder AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Dawson Stoekle AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2025

Tre’ Webre AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Gus Pouciau AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2023

Luke Reulet AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Adler Rice AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Luke Romaine AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Henry Ross AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Louis Rudge AP Scholar Class of 2023

Gabe Russell AP Scholar Class of 2024

Michael Salmon AP Scholar Class of 2023

Kristophe Sauviac AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Sidney Scheumack AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Trent Schexnayder AP Scholar Class of 2023

Andrew Schmeeckle AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

George Scully AP Scholar Class of 2023

Graham Sellers AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Greyson Sellers AP Scholar Class of 2024

Kaleb Shanklin AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2023

Hayden Smith AP Scholar Class of 2024

William Stafford AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2024

Edward Stoekle AP Scholar Class of 2023

James Stuckey AP Scholar Class of 2024

Charles Tramonte AP Scholar Class of 2023

Hunter Ullrich AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Sean Vidrine AP Scholar Class of 2024

Brady Waguespack AP Scholar Class of 2025

Jackson Whitlow AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Michael Wilhelm AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2025

Seth Willard AP Scholar Class of 2023

Luke Wimberley AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Danny Woods AP Scholar Class of 2024

Jacob Wood AP Scholar Class of 2023

Braeden Zeringue AP Scholar with Distinction Class of 2024

Kevin Zheng AP Scholar with Honor Class of 2025

CHS SNAPSHOTS

Student Council members Ben Bailey, Sean Valluzzo, Charlie Lanehart, and Matthew Castelluccio attended the Southern Association of Student Councils Convention in Chapin, South Carolina at Chapin High School. In addition to the fun surroundings of South Carolina, the conference offered time to meet other delegates from nearby states, attend informational workshops, enjoy keynote speakers during general sessions, and swap ideas about councils. Catholic High was represented well with our Louisiana President (Sean), District President (Charlie), CHS Social Media (Ben), and delegate (Matthew).

Members of CHS Youth and Government recently attended the Louisiana YMCA Youth Legislature Conference where they had an opportunity to experience the democratic process by assuming different roles in the three branches of government. During the conference, students authored and debated legislation on a topic of local/state importance. We are so proud of these young men for taking the initiative to expand upon their knowledge of state government while also enhancing their leadership skills.

Members of the junior and senior classes from St. Joseph’s Academy and Catholic High School spent Thanksgiving week in Washington, D.C. Among the highlights of the week were an illuminated night tour of the city and trips to the World War II, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Martin Luther King memorials, Mount Vernon, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, Pentagon City Mall, Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, National Archives, Union Station, the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress and Arlington National Cemetery. Huge thanks to CHS faculty members Jaime Olinde and Drew Losavio, as well as SJA faculty members Aimee Cronan and Liz Fontenot, who served as chaperones on the trip.

In recognition of World Kindness Day, CHS students voted for the classmates they felt consistently showed selflessness and kindness toward others. Congratulations to the following young men for being selected by their peers for the CHS Kindness Award: Ben Bailey ’25, Marco Canizaro ’26, Jack Cannon ’27, Davis Dawes ’25, Cole Fisher ’26, Brayden Ford ’27, Brady Foreman ’27, Andrew Hansen ’24, Oliver Hargrave ’28, Raz McRae ’25, Cole Mogharrebi ’24, Archer Pounders ’25, Adler Rice ’24, Mickey Smith ’27, Blaise Thomassie ’26, and Kevin Zheng ’25.

Several foreign language faculty members—Mr. Mitch Arceneaux, Mr. Daniel Bordelon, and Mrs. Kayleigh Smith—attended the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Conference in Chicago. Nearly 50 people attended the session presented by Mrs. Smith showcasing the best practices for using stories for reading and writing activities in foreign language classes.

Catholic High School offers a summer program for students interested in academics, arts, and athletics. We invite boys and girls—as young as seven years old—to join us to experience the excitement of SUMMER AT CHS!

Dates and times of this year’s course offerings, along with course descriptions, can be found at catholichigh.org/summeratchs

Scan here!

CHS Great Warrick Dunn ’93

Delivers Dream Home Surprise to Baton Rouge Mom

A dedicated single mom became a firsttime homeowner thanks to Habitat for Humanity of Greater Baton Rouge and build sponsor Catholic High School,. However, when Dominique arrived at her new home on September 12, she was shocked to find Baton Rouge native, Catholic High alumnus and NFL great, Warrick Dunn ’93, in the driveway, delivering a life-changing surprise in the form of a $5,000 down-payment assistance check and $10,000 worth of furnishings from Aaron’s!

Over the past year, Catholic High School students and faculty raised $84,500 towards the cost of the build for this home. On March 4, CHS students, faculty and staff joined the Habitat for Humanity team to break ground on the fourth home the Bears have built. During the following months, students and other members of the CHS community provided countless hours of volunteer support working alongside the new homeowner to make her dream a reality.

Since 2014, Catholic High School has raised more than $184,000 for Habitat for Humanity, and more than 2,600 CHS students, faculty and staff have volunteered on Habitat builds in the past 20+ years.

This event marked the 218th Home Celebration nationwide by Warrick Dunn Charities (WDC). The former NFL star’s non-profit organization identifies single parents across the country and helps them achieve their goal of first-time homeownership as part of its “Homes for the Holidays” program. Additionally, WDC delivers financial support for the homeowner from sponsor and fellow CHS Alumnus, Ryan Jumonville ’91, and groceries to stock the pantry provided by Shoppers Value Foods.

Dominique is an administrative assistant for the Louisiana Workforce Commission, but more importantly, she is a single mom to an eight-year-old daughter, Miracle. Her path to home ownership was paved by Habitat’s financial wellbeing classes, which helped Dominique curb overspending and put her in a position to move her family from an apartment into their own home, providing peace of mind for their future.

We are thrilled to have been present to capture Dominique and Miracle Lynn's joy as they were greeted with these unexpected gifts, and to see her dream of homeownership become a reality.

CHS/SJA Bruin Band and Bruinettes and CHS/SJA Choir Showcase Talent for Local Middle Schools

In September and November, Catholic High School hit the road to visit Baton Rouge’s Catholic middle schools. The CHS/SJA Choir, Bruin Band and Bruinettes, Cheerleaders and student leaders from campus shared their favorite things about CHS, taught them classic CHS Cheers, sang beautiful (and some funny) songs, and invited students to show off their dance moves with the Bruinettes.

The crew made stops at St. Thomas More, St. Jean Vianney, St. Theresa, St. George, St. Jude the Apostle, Our Lady of Mercy, Most Blessed Sacrament and St. Alphonsus to showcase all the fun that comes along with being a part of these student organizations.

Thank you to the Baton Rouge middle schools for hosting our students and faculty. We also thank the CHS/SJA Choir directors, CHS Band Directors, Bruinette, and Cheerleader coaches, the admissions team and all of our students for sharing their time and talents to further the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

CHS Hosts Middle School Band and Bruinette Night

On one Friday night each fall, the Catholic High School Bruin Marching Band and Bruinette Dance Ensemble invites band students and dancers from local middle schools to join them in the stands for a night of fun and music supporting Bears football. Band and Bruinette night gives these future Bears and Stickers a taste of what it’s like to be part of the band on a Friday night at Memorial Stadium. It also offers the opportunity to make a few new friends and to perform in the stands with one of the best high school bands in the state. We were thrilled to welcome 105 students from more than 14 middle schools to participate in the event!

It was great to be a Bear this fall as the Catholic High athletic program continued their tremendous success on and off the field. The Bears earned state championship trophies in swimming and football to go along with a regional championship in cross country.

The Vociferous Juggernaut had a season for the record books on their way to the program’s ninth state championship in school history. CHS swimmers dominated early season competition capturing the team’s 31st consecutive CCSL City Championship. The Bears were just 65 points away from a perfect meet score, and six swimmers earned individual city titles. Eight CHS swimmers were named to the All-Metro Team for their performances, and eight swimmers were named to the All-Metro Academic Team as well. The team then headed to Sulphur for the Division I State Championship Meet. There, CHS outpaced their competition with overwhelming depth as 15 different swimmers scored points. The Bears won three events, including the 200m Free Relay, 400m Free Relay, and Alex Cooper captured the 200m Free individual title.

The CHS cross country team posted another successful season on the course under interim head coach Tre Hendry. The Big Orange Wave had early season success placing three runners in the top five on their way to a second-place finish in the EBR City Championship Meet. Just a week later, CHS went on to win the Regional Championship as four Bears finished in the top 10 and all seven runners scored points toward the victory. At the State Championship Meet in Natchitoches, the Bears finished fifth in an incredibly deep and talented field.

Under first-year head coach Hudson Fuller, the Catholic High football team overcame early season adversity and improved each week on the road to the program’s fifth state championship. After starting 1-3, the Bears won 10 consecutive games, which included a thrilling overtime victory over Zachary to clinch the 4-5A district title. In the playoffs, CHS defeated John Ehret, John Curtis, and Rummel to advance to the State Championship Game in the Caesars Superdome against Acadiana. The Bears’ prolific offense, led by All-State quarterback Daniel Beale, helped CHS roll past the Rams 55-31 and clinch the Division I State Championship. Individually, CHS compiled 11 First-Team All-District members, 5 LFCA All-State members, and 11 All-State Academic members.

Our fall teams excelled in the classroom and on the field. Their accomplishments are the results of countless hours of hard work by the players and their coaches. The efforts of these young men is a tangible example of how athletics can contribute to Catholic High’s holistic approach to education.

Ben DiPalma ’00

Catholic High School honored members of the football, swimming, and cross country teams at the Fall Sports Convocation. Along with recognizing lettermen, coaches gave season recaps and distributed individual awards.

Check out our major award winners!

FOOTBALL

SWIMMING

CROSS COUNTRY

Team Captains Award Special Teams Award “Golden Grizzly” Award The Steven Deumite Memorial Award

“Gayle Hatch” Strength Award

Daniel Beale ’24 and Jaylon Wood ’24

Brooks Allen ’24

Thomas Bennett ’24 and Nick Ferrell ’24 Blair Rousseau ’24

Most Improved Swimmer Coach’s Award

Most Valuable Swimmer

Eric Jurkovic ’25

Mason Prochaska ’24

Alex Cooper ’24

Outstanding Runner Coach’s Award

“Orange Wave” Award

David Lemann ’24

Jonathan Thompson ’26

Matthew Maynard ’24

The Catholic High School athletic program continued its tradition of sending student athletes to play at the collegiate level this fall.

Nine athletes from the class of 2024 signed letters of intent to further their athletic careers.

DANIEL BEALE Football

University of LouisianaLafayette

Tommy Blanchard LACROSSE

University of Montevallo

Alex Cooper

SWIMMING

Colorado Mesa university

Trip Dobson Baseball

University of Houston

Alston Manne GOLF

University of LouisianaMonroe

Grant BreauX BASEball

LOuisiana State university

WYATT CHENEVERT BASEball

NICHOLLS STATE

William Schmidt BASEball

Louisiana State University

Brooks Wright Baseball

University of LouisianaLafayette

The first half of the 2023-24 academic year at Catholic High School has been exceptional. Our community is thriving, as evidenced by the increased involvement of parents, alumni, and friends in our spiritual and social gatherings. The enthusiastic attendance at our students’ extracurricular and sporting events is a tangible way to support our young men, teachers, moderators, and coaches. We invest time in each other, and that is a testament to the strength and unity of our community.

Our community is also making an impact by financially investing in Catholic High School. Parents, alumni, and friends are donating to the annual appeal, scholarship programs, and directing dedicated gifts that align with their passion. We are grateful to all of those who have invested; every donation to Catholic High School enhances the experience for our students and continues our rich tradition of excellence.

To our community members who have not yet invested this year, I am encouraging you to reflect on the following points:

• The Mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart to teach Gospel values,

• The spirituality of compassion our community possesses,

• The strong leadership position Catholic High School has in Baton Rouge,

• The academic and extracurricular success of the Catholic High School students,

• The dedication of our teachers and staff,

• Your personal experience in the CHS community.

Please invest in Catholic High School and be a part of continued growth and future achievement. We are available to answer any questions, hear suggestions for improvement, and encourage all to attend our upcoming events.

Spiritual

Prayer Services

• February 23 - 6:30 AM Rosary

• February 23 - 12:00 PM Stations of the Cross

• March 1 - 7:45 AM Rosary

• March 8 - 8:00 AM Mission Pillar Prayer Service

• March 15 - 12:00 PM Stations of the Cross

• March 19 - 9:45 AM Liturgy

• March 22 - 7:45 AM Rosary

• March 27 - 5:00 PM Rosary

• March 28 - 8:00 AM-2:00 PM Holy Thursday Holy Hours

• March 29 - 6:30 AM Rosary

Social

Grandparents Day

March 17 - 2:00 PM

March 21 - 5:30 PM

Bear Bash

March 23 - 3 :00 PM

Bears Bingo Mother-Son Breakfast

March 24 - 10:00 AM

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. They have donated $100,000 or more to CHS during 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

Mr. and Mrs. John C. Valluzzo ’78

PERPETUAL FOUNDER - SANCTUARY -

$250,000 - $499,999

Mr. and Mrs. David H. Arrighi Sr. ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Couhig ’90

Succession of Evelyn Nelson Davis

Dr. and Mrs. Jacques de la Bretonne

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

Faulk & Winkler LLC

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur E. Faulk III

Mr. and Mrs. George A. Fischer

Mrs. Margaret Womack Hart

Mr. and Mrs. J. Gerard Jolly ’70

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Melancon Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Moran ’86

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

Mr. and Mrs. Michael W. Salmon

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. Thomas A. Barfield Jr. ’82

Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Barnidge

Baton Rouge Coca-Cola United *

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. 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

Guy Hopkins Construction Co.

Mr. H. G. Hopkins ’76 and Mrs. Marion Hopkins +

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

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. Ralph J. Stephens ’73

Mr. and Mrs. William L. Steele II *

Mr. and Mrs. Jorge L. Tarajano ’80

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

FOUNDERS AND FIRST-TIME FOUNDERS

Being a Founder at Catholic High School is a prestigious honor representing a commitment of $2,000 within a school year. We deeply appreciate our Founders, whose generous contributions significantly enhance our students educational experiences, providing them with the resources and confidence to excel. Use the QR to see a listing of our 77 Founders honored at this year’s Founders Banquet in December.

Scan to see a listing of our 77 Founders honored at this year’s Founders Banquet in December.

YOUNG FOUNDERS

Catholic High School proudly acknowledges those recognized as Young Founders graduating 15 years or less. We are grateful for their dedication and support—having donated $1,000 or more as of June 30, 2023.

Mr. John Eric Ginn ‘17

Mr. Daniel G. Gunn ‘16

Mr. Michael C. McDowell ‘13

Mr. Felix R. Moran ‘11

Mr. Kevin A. Moran ‘13

Mr. Brian D. Tucker ‘12

Mr. Curtis G. Westmoland ‘14

+ Deceased

* New Perpetual Founder or Giving Level Increase

CONSECUTIVE FOUNDERS

Thank you to the following members who have reached the Founders level of giving consecutively for 20 years or more. New members of the Consecutive Founders list are denoted in white below.

Cajun Industries —20 years

CHS Men’s Club —20 Years

Dr. Paul Joseph Waguespack ’85—20 years

Candi and Paul Ferachi ’84—21 years

Brigid and Dr. Mike Durel—22 years

Jennifer and Wesley Salmon ’91—22 years

Margie and Ralph Alexander—23 years

Jody and Dr. Greg Brandao ’73—23 years

Marti and Jim Burke ’86—23 years

Holly and Glen Randow—23 years

Colonel James F. Coerver ’46—24 years

Aglonie and Michael DiVincenti ’73—24 years

Liz and Jay Jolly ’75—24 years

Kay and Norman Deumite—24 years

Kim and Mark Morgan—25 years

Shell Oil Company—26 years

Cynthia and Bill Steele—27 years

Carol Ann and Redfield Bryan ’55—28 years

John Turner ’78 and Jerry Fischer—28 years

Linda and Richard Vath—28 years

Ric Lea ’77—30 years

Tina and Bert Faulk—31 years

The CHS Mothers’ Club—31 years

Anne and Tom Meek—31 years

Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation—31 years

Sissy and Ralph Stephens ’73—31 years

Re and David DiVincenti ’70—31 years

Charles Valluzzo—31 years

Carol and Randy Bonnecaze ’65 –33 years

Donna and Jerry Jolly ’70—33 years

Robin and Dusty Jumonville ’73—33 years

Daniel Murray ’63—33 years

Myria and David Butler ’77—36 years

Elaine and Randy Ellis ’65—39 years

The 2023-2024 campaign has already seen so many successes! Check them out!

• Parent Annual Giving $123,388

• Alumni Annual Giving $289,873

• Friends Annual Giving $84,814

• Designated Gifts $67,673

• Scholarship and Endowment Giving $469,669

• CHS Golf Classic $45,360

• 7th year in a row for 100% Faculty and Staff Participation for the Annual Appeal

• National Give Day Success $150,842 collected

o $50,000 to Gene Tullier’s Endowment

o New Line Smart Panel Smart board

o Band donation of $2,000 for speakers

o More than 250 donors: Alumni support ranging from classes of 1958 to 2026.

o Strengthening of The Band Endowment and Athletics programs

Thank you to our current 220 Recurring Donors who have produced $58,852 so far this fiscal year with an average gift of $66.00 per month. A Recurring Donor is someone who automates a set amount of money to be deducted from their credit card or checking account at a consistent time (usually monthly) throughout the year. This form of giving is convenient for the donor and impactful for the school, creating a reliable source of funding for its programs and initiatives.

If 25% or our Alumni, Parents, and Friends who are not currently donating to Catholic High School commit to being Recurring Donors at $66 per month, we would set a record for All-Time Annual Appeal donations!

25% of CHS Community x $66 monthly recurring gift = $198,000 per month

$198,000 x 12 months = $2,376,000 per year

The 1894 Minute Challenge is the two-day annual giving event that celebrates all aspects of our school. We need your help to reach our fundraising goal of $189,400! Please contact Shelley Vance at svance@catholichigh.org if you are interested in helping as:

An alumni class coordinator, A parent class coordinator, Mothers’ Club coordinator, Men’s Club coordinator.

Additionally, we are looking for representatives of the community that we can interview during the day on March 21 and 22. Anyone who is interested in making a short video on why they donate to Catholic High School, and why others should get involved is encouraged to send their message to our CHS Donor Testimonial DropBox by scanning this QR:

THE EVENTS FOR THE WEEK OF THE 1894 MINUTE CHALLENGE ARE:

The Catholic High School Bingo Night is a major part of the 1894 Minute Challenge. Bingo was successfully reintroduced in the fall of 2022 under Meredith Oubre’s leadership and the efforts of the Bingo Committee. Meredith and her team’s dedication have raised over $40,000 for the Bears. These funds have provided furniture upgrades to the Mall, a new stage for the Activities Department, mobile white boards, and decorative signage. More importantly, Bingo provides a wonderful opportunity for our community to enjoy festive fellowship. Thank you to Sherman and Balhoff Orthodontics for sponsoring our Bingo events. This spring’s theme is Yellowstone, so beware of an invitation to the train station!

sponsored

by

TOP TEN TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO CHS BY CLASS (7/1/2023 - 12/31/2023)

1986 $104,255

1991 $99,310

1973 $76,400

1978 $58,890

1962 $51,200

1979 $44,936

1964 $43,475

1992 $35,338

1977 $33,242

1987 $28,450

TOP TEN CLASS DONATION PERCENTAGES (7/1/2023 - 12/31/2023)

1973 23.96%

1979 22.37%

1992 17.51%

1991 12.39%

1998 11.05%

1987 10.56%

1970 10%

1971 9%

1982 8.75%

1957 8.22%

TOP TEN TOTAL ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS BY CLASS (LIFETIME)

1991

1986

1987

1978

1973

1970

1985

1949

1975

1996

SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENTS CREATED DURING THE 2023 CALENDAR YEAR

Melvin Joseph LeBlanc Jr. ’52 Family Scholarship

The Stephen M. Toups ’84 Scholarship

Mothers’ Club Past Presidents Scholarship

The Gerald E. Tullier Faculty and Staff Enhancement Endowment

CHS Class of 1999 Scholarship

The Howard Joseph Jenkins Memorial Endowed Scholarship

CHS Class of 1973 50 Year Reunion Scholarship

Pepper - St. Amant Family Scholarship

The Father Mark Beard ’79 Memorial Scholarship

The Joseph G. McCoy ’81 Endowed Scholarship

The Miller Family Endowed Scholarship

The Mr. Donald Cook ’66 Memorial Scholarship

CHS’ TOP 10 SCHOLARSHIPS

TOTAL ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS

Perry Thomas Fischer Memorial Endowed Scholarship

CHS Golf Classic Endowed Scholarship

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

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

CHS Alumni Fishing Rodeo Endowed Scholarship

Bryan P. Boudet ’92 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Mildred Creaghan Robichaux & Gertrude Creaghan Scholarship in honor of Brother Carl Evans, S.C.

Jacob Matthew Meek ’17 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Brent David Pecue ’80 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Betty Smothers Memorial 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

Gary J. and Lynette I. Lacombe Endowment

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

CHS Class of ’75 Endowment

TOP FIVE CLASS SCHOLARSHIPS/ENDOWMENTS TOTAL

ALL-TIME CONTRIBUTIONS (LIFETIME)

CHS Class of 1973 Endowed Scholarship/ 50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship ....... $242,628

CHS Class of 1982 Endowed Scholarship .......... $107,230

The Class of 1975 Endowment ............................... $86,140

The CHS Class of 1998 Scholarship ..................... $78,556

The Class of 1970 Scholarship ............................... $69,650

TOP FIVE CONTRIBUTIONS TO A CLASS SCHOLARSHIP/ENDOWMENT (07/01/2023 - 12/31/2023)

CHS Class of 1973 Endowed Scholarship/ 50 Year Reunion Endowed Scholarship ....... $71,740

Class of 1998 Scholarship ...................................... $11,995

The CHS Class of 1971 Scholarship ...................... $10,450

CHS Class of 1977 Endowed Scholarship ....... $5,500

CHS Class of 1982 Endowed Scholarship .......... $4,630

SCHOLARSHIPS AND ENDOWMENTS RECEIVING THE MOST DONOR CONTRIBUTIONS (07/01/2023 - 12/31/2023) Denotes increased ranking.

The Gerald E. Tullier Faculty and Staff Enhancement Endowment

Mildred Creaghan Robichaux & Gertrude Creaghan Scholarship in honor of Brother Carl Evans, S.C.

The Mr. Donald Cook ’66 Memorial Scholarship

The Joseph G. McCoy ’81 Endowed Scholarship

The Father Mark Beard ’79 Memorial Scholarship

Bryan P. Boudet ’92 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Jordan T. “Jordy” Rourke ’06 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Jacob Matthew Meek ’17 Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Barbara E. and Ulyesse J. LeGrange ’48 Endowed Scholarship

The Cusick Family Endowed Scholarship

Did you know that there are several scholarships and endowments created at Catholic High School to fund a specific purpose? If you are interested in establishing a scholarship or endowment to support an area on campus you want to improve, please contact J.P. Kelly at jkelly@catholichigh.org. A gift to any of these scholarships or endowments is always welcomed.

The Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation Awards Security Grant to Catholic High School

The Irene W. and C.B. Pennington Foundation awarded a grant to Catholic High School for the security plan that has been established by the school. This grant along with donations from members of the Catholic High School community will help the school proceed with a building access control system using proximity key cards and key fobs.

With the number of school threats and incidences around the country increasing at an alarming rate, the safety and security of the school’s students, faculty and staff are of primary concern. The administration is committed to providing an environment that protects every valued member of our community.

Claude B. “Doc” Pennington and his wife, Irene Wells Pennington, officially created the Pennington Foundation in 1982, but the story begins in the early 1920s. Claude Bernard “Doc” Pennington was born in Chunky, MS in Newton County, on March 30, 1900, and in 1910, his family moved to Calcasieu Parish in Louisiana. He later married Irene Wells and they had one son, Claude Bernard Pennington, who passed away in 1997.

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 continues to happen. 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 this grant as it allows the school to fund special projects that are not included in the operating budget of the school.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS INTERESTED IN AWARDING A GRANT TO CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, PLEASE CONTACT MRS. MARGIE ALEXANDER AT MALEXANDER@CATHOLICHIGH.ORG.

Founders Banquet And Induction

Catholic High School held its 37th annual Founders Banquet and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on December 7, 2023. Nearly three hundred guests gathered to celebrate the many men and women who so graciously

dedicate their time, talent, and investment to support CHS.

Guests were greeted with the beautiful Christmas caroling and opening prayer from the CHS and SJA Chamber Singers before enjoying a wonderful dinner provided by City Pork Catering.

We were thrilled to honor the many individual volunteer leaders, perpetual founders, firsttime founders, and young founders who supported CHS during the 2022-2023 school year. The focus of the evening’s festivi-

Hall of Fame Ceremony

ties then shifted to the celebration of our 2023 CHS Hall of Fame inductee, Past CHS President, Mr. Gene Tullier.

With Director of Advancement, Mr. J.P. Kelly '92, leading as the evening’s emcee, CHS President Mrs. Lisa Harvey welcomed the crowd while Principal Dr. Tom Eldringhoff recapped a successful year with his State-of-the-School address praising the dedication and sacrifice of the CHS faculty and staff. Mrs. Harvey later returned to the podium to begin Mr. Tullier’s official induction into the Hall of Fame with

remarks followed by a video presentation showcasing Mr. Tullier’s work with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart over the past 45 years.

After accepting the coveted CHS Golden Bear Award, Mr. Tullier delivered a heartfelt address where he expressed his appreciation and love for Catholic High School.

To end the evening, Father Trey Nelson ’80 gave the closing prayer.

Innovator, Trailblazer, Servant: Honoring Gene Tullier Catholic High School’s 2023 Hall of Fame Inductee

Mr. Gene Tullier has played an integral role with the Brothers of the Sacred Heart for more than four decades. A true steward of the Brothers’ mission, Gene contributed to the formation of thousands of young men during their most pivitol time of development.

His work began in 1978 when he accepted a teaching position at Brother Martin High School in New Orleans while earning his Masters in Education from Loyola University. Not only did Gene serve as a teacher, he quickly advanced to higher level leadership roles including assistant principal, disciplinarian, vice principal, and eventually, principal. It was in this role where Gene’s fortitude would be tested as he was faced with dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

The storm, as most know, devastated New Orleans in 2005, flooding Brother Martin and making the campus unusable during the first semester of that year. Knowing that the young men and women in New Orleans schools needed the sense of normalcy that came with attending school, Gene led the effort to find a

temporary campus to hold classes. He, along with other members of the Brother Martin leadership team, worked out a plan with the administration of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge to accommodate the displaced students. CHS students shifted to an earlier daytime schedule while students from New Orleans schools attended classes in the evenings. More than 600 students from Catholic and public schools in the New Orleans area were able to resume their education while the rebuilding process began in their hurricane-ravaged schools. Thanks to Gene and the school leaders of Brother Martin and Catholic High School, Brother Martin students were able to return to the New Orleans campus just five months after the storm. In appreciation to the Catholic High School community, Brother Martin President John Devlin, removed a brick from the school’s main entrance and presented it to CHS. That brick was installed permanently in the main lobby of CHS where it remains to this day. The space at Brother Martin from which the brick was taken remains empty, representing the permanent connection between the two schools forged through the extraordinary events in

the fall of 2005. Many also see it as a symbol of Gene’s career serving both schools.

In 2006, Gene began his tenure as President of Catholic High School where he is credited for muchneeded facilities expansions and student enrollment increases. He is also responsible for strengthening Catholic High’s need-based tuition assistance program which helps make the school an affordable and accessible option for families who want a strong Catholic education. His steadfast and compassionate dedication to the education profession served as motivation in his efforts to increase the salaries and benefits for the school’s faculty. During his time at CHS, the school was recognized twice—in 2014 and 2020—as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. In addition to his contributions to education, Gene has co-authored two Brothers of the Sacred Heart pedagogical documents.

Gene retired in June of 2023, having served in Catholic education for 45 years—28 years at Brother Martin and 17 years at Catholic High.

Alumni Board of Directors 2023-2024

FRONT ROW

From left Shelley Vance

Nick Miller ’07

Assoc. President-Elect

Monty Buckles ’93

Don Contine ’67

Kyle Smith ’95

Bart Saia ’91 Director of Alumni Relations

SECOND ROW

From left

Madison Dillard ’14

Joffre Meek ’16

Joey Coco ’95

Jamie Segar ’90 Associate Dir. of Advancement

Nick Danna ’16 VC

Dale LeBlanc ’95 Alumni Assoc. President

THIRD ROW

From left

Stephen Fertitta ’06 VC

Max Welborn ’18 VC

Tim Welborn ’92

Cameron Hunt ’12

Don Haney ’ 06

Justin Mannino ’06 Alumni Assoc. Past President

FOURTH ROW

From left

Bryan Hart ’98

J.P. Kelly ’92 Director of Advancement

Ken Litz ’75

William Gauthier ’12

Louis Angelloz ’11

Michael Wong ’01

Pictured above are the members of the Alumni Board of Directors and the Alumni Volunteer Corps. *Members of the Volunteer Corps are indicated with “VC” after their name.

Database & Events Coordinator

Alumni

CHS alumni, family members, friends, faculty, and staff gathered at Memorial Stadium prior to the 2023 Homecoming Game for the annual Alumni Tailgate. The event, which took place on Friday, September 29, featured food cooked by CHS students in the Grizzly Hospitality Group, music by Russ Joffrion, performances by the CHS Band, and more. The Grizzly Greats were also honored before kick-off with the newest class—Dr. Carl Luikart ’ 72, Scott Yerby ’93, Luke Zumo ’04, and Jason Peters ’07—as they were introduced on the field during pre-game announcements.

Alumni from CHS and SJA who were part of the band, boosters, Bruinettes, cheerleaders, and flag corps joined in the fun with reunion events during homecoming week. Nearly 100 members attended the reunion festivities which included a performance rehearsal, social hour, tailgate, and halftime performance.

Thank you to all who came out to celebrate the Bears!

The 2024 Taste Fair & Auction presented by the CHS Alumni Association and CHS Mothers’ Club was a memorable evening filled with food, fellowship, and fun! Hundreds of parents, friends, and alumni gathered in the Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Student Center to enjoy food and beverage samplings from over 30 local vendors. Guests also enjoyed a bit of friendly competition as they bid on the incredible auction items featured in this year’s Mothers’ Club Auction! Thank you to all who joined us to support this year’s event—especially our food and beverage vendors!

Save the Date for next year’s event, set to take place on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

TOTAL NUMBER OF GOLFERS

216

TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED

$45,300

The Catholic High School Alumni Association hosted the 2023 CHS Golf Classic on Friday, October 6, at Santa Maria Golf Course. This year’s event featured morning and afternoon flights complete with food and drinks along the course.

More than 200 golfers came out helping us raise over $45,000 to support the CHS Golf Classic Scholarship which provides tuition assistance to students based on financial need.

TITLE

GRIZZLY

LONGEST DRIVE CLOSEST TO THE HOLE

TENT GEAUX CUP

CART GOLDEN BEAR

SCORECARD DRIVING RANGE

POKER RUN PUTTING GREEN BEVERAGE

CHS

administrators, faculty members, and community leaders honored Dr. David Pope ’85 at the Diocese of Baton Rouge Catholic School Distinguished Graduate Awards Dinner on January 29, 2024.

Dr. Tom Eldringhoff, principal of Catholic High School, said the choice was easy, not only because of Dr. Pope’s dedicated service to CHS but because he is an inspiration to young men and the kind of role model school leaders want for all students.

“Dr. Pope has a quiet but profound commitment to excellence,” he said. “He has been a staple on our football sidelines for more than 20 years. Not only does he provide excellent medical care to our players, but off the field, he goes above and beyond to provide treatment to students and faculty—regardless of how busy he is.”

Every year, each Catholic school in the Diocese of Baton Rouge selects alumni to recognize as their distinguished graduates. To be eligible, an individual must have a proven track record of making significant impacts on their school, church, and community.

Catholic High School chose Dr. Pope for his long-standing commitment to professional excellence, high values, excellent character, and service to the greater community—all of which are an integral part of the mission of Catholic schools.

A 1985 graduate of CHS, Dr. Pope currently serves as an Orthopedic Surgeon at the Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge where he practices general orthopedic surgery with a subspecialty interest in knee arthroscopy, sports medicine, and knee joint replacement. He received his Medical Degree from LSU School of Medicine-New Orleans in 1993, where he was the recipient of several distinguished awards, including the Louisiana Orthopaedic Association Award, the McGraw-Hill Book Award for the Highest Ranking Freshman Medical Student, and the Urban Maes Memorial Award for the Most Outstanding Four Year Medical Academic Achievement.

Dr. Pope is a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and was recognized by Louisiana Life as a Top Doctor in 2015 and 2016.

Dr. David M. Pope alongside Spencer Jennings, Jamie Segar ’90, Bart Saia ’91, J.P. Kelly ’92, Dr. Tom Eldringhoff attend the annual Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge Distinguished Graduate Dinner on January 29, 2024.

by Thomas Broussard ’16

Richie Adams is a filmmaker.

A 1993 graduate of Catholic High, Richie studied journalism at the University of Colorado Boulder, and worked in Los Angeles’ film industry, where he started as a title designer. Now, he writes, directs, and produces independent films. Fellow 2016 grad Chase Brouillette and I recently sat down with Richie to talk about his career. We first touched on his most recent work.

The Road Dance is a period piece set in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides island chain during World War I. Adams had previously worked with one of the film’s financiers, who was searching for a screenwriter to adapt the novel the film is based on. Adams connected with the material immediately. “I’ve loved period films since I was a little kid…I love British cinema, and being an American writer-director, being offered a British story—I was in.” Adams wrote the screenplay in 2018, and the producer and casting director felt it worthy of an A-list director. “The whole time I was like, guys, think of me as a director…I was hoping they would consider me,” Adams said. He gave some insight into the business, saying the producers had their work cut out for them; getting an A-list director on an independent film with a limited budget is challenging. The producers shopped around the script for a year and ultimately chose Adams. “I was ecstatic,” he said.

The film was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, “which was an incredible experience.” The production had a snappy schedule, with pre-production starting in September and the set wrapping shortly before Thanksgiving. Before production, Adams, like many, was working from home, and he jumped at the opportunity to direct on location. “Making films in

general is already a hard challenge,” he said, but this production faced new challenges brought on by the pandemic: daily testing, necessary additional safety personnel, new guidelines limiting the number of people on set, not to mention the weather. “Every day was about forty degrees, raining throughout the day,” he said. The story’s setting also demanded authenticity. Set in the Isle of Lewis’s Garenin village, which is usually a popular location for travelers, the production was able to completely take over the space due to the pandemic. Ultimately the film premiered at the Edinburgh Film Festival and won an audience award. Many followed, including US awards and festivals. “As a filmmaker, that’s all you can hope for,” he said.

Next we talked about the connections and experiences, early on, that brought him to where he is now.

Adams got his start in the business working with iconic designer Richard Greenberg, who created many, many films’ title sequences, including Alien. Before that he was cutting his teeth in the advertising industry, when one fateful day, he saw someone animating a logo. He realized

that was a step closer to what he really wanted to do. This realization and his response would come to be emblematic of a career defining spirit. He hit the books and relied on his

Colorado. His previous colleagues gave him a chance to make the title sequence for their next film. Making title sequences for skate and snowboard films was the beginning of a niche.

While taking classes, he was referred to Richard Greenberg. Adams met Greenberg at his home and didn’t expect him to be very responsive and was truly surprised to be brought aboard Star Trek: Nemesis, starring Sir Patrick Stewart, which had a budget in the tens of millions of dollars. Ultimately Greenberg hired Adams as art director of his company. Adams recalls that in many ways Greenberg was old school, utilizing techniques like shooting with 35mm film. This was another fateful moment for Adams. He realized, “Every time I’m behind the camera, working with the crew members, that’s when I’m most alive.” He wanted to direct.

As always, Adams tried to educate and challenge himself. He continued to advance in his career and decided to move back home to Louisiana. With the comfort of familiar environs and support of friends, he wrote his first feature, while still working in title design. For example, the first film he worked on after returning home was Alejandro González Iñárritu’s Babel, starring Brad Pitt. “I’ve been very blessed to work with some extraordinary filmmakers,” he said.

Adams has not only worked in title design and an indy film, but has also produced a documentary. While working on his first feature in Baton Rouge, he came across an interesting character, a dog trainer. The film required reliable dogs for a few sequences, and Adams “asked around and kept getting pointed to this gentleman named Dick Russell.” For readers familiar with Dick Russell, it’s no surprise that he got the job done, and Adams ultimately got a few of his pet dogs trained by Russell as well. Russell impressed Adams as he went through the six-week course. At the end Adams thought someone has to

tell this guy’s story. Time was not on their side because Russell had already been fighting cancer for six years. In a turn of what Adams believes to have been divine providence, that very week, a young, aspiring filmmaker who had recently graduated college crossed his path wanting experience. The youngster joined his team as an intern and they went about filming Russell’s classes and editing the footage for a documentary. The two still work together to this day. While crowdsourcing funding for the film, the team realized that their subject had touched people across the US and even across the world. Wide ranging support and interest naturally followed. “I wouldn’t consider myself a documentarian, but, you know, I kind of rose to the challenge,” he said.

Richie Adams learned the value of mentorship early in his career. After applying himself and taking the initiative, he met someone whose knowledge and experience could get him to the next phase of his career. “He saw something in me. He took me under his wing, and I was blessed to eat lunch with him every day for the four years that I worked with him. Every day we would talk about the craft of filmmaking.” These kinds of experiences change the course of a person’s life. Later Adams took the opportunity to mentor others in venues from schools to the job site. In the past, Richie Adams has spoken to Catholic High students at career day.

“I had never thought in a million years I would work in the film business,” he said.

Richie Adams on set of AMERICAN. Photo sourced from IMDB

Richie Adams fields questions during The Road Dance Filmmaker Q&A held at Manship Theatre in Fall

Dixon W. McMakin ’05

elected to the Louisiana State House of Representatives for District 68

Republican Dixon McMakin, member of the Catholic High School Class of 2005 and lifelong resident of Baton Rouge, LA was recently elected to the Louisiana State House of Representatives for District 68. He is the first CHS graduate to to serve as a state representative. While at Catholic High, Dixon lettered in three sports, served as Student Body President, and founded the CHS-SJA Challenge Day, which has gone on to raise more money for the Baton Rouge Food Bank than any other event in the food bank’s history.

Dixon attended LSU, where he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree and continued his academic career at the Flores MBA Program and the Paul M. Hebert Law Center, graduating in 2013 with a dual JD/MBA. He is a financial advisor for Altus Wealth Management, a licensed insurance agent of Altus Benefit Solutions, and the sole attorney of The McMakin Law Firm, PLLC, and most recognizably for the CHS community, the Voice of the Bears!

Dixon has been honored for his fellowship, leadership, scholarship, and service to the Baton Rouge community by the Baton Rouge Business Report as a Top Forty Under 40 2015 recipient, the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge as a St. Aloysius Distinguished Alumnus, the American Cancer Society as a Baton Rouge Best Dressed winner, and Big Buddy of Baton Rouge as a star dancer on Dancing with the Stars.

Dixon and his wife, Bess Casserleigh, reside in Baton Rouge and are proud dog parents to Pepper the Pup.

Robert J. Aertker III ’92

named Acadia Parish 2023 Business Person of the Year

The Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce announced that Dr. Robert J. Aertker III of Crowley Primary Care has been selected as the 2023 Business Person of the Year in conjunction with Acadia Parish Honors Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony. A native of Baton Rouge, with maternal roots in Lafayette, Dr. Aertker has been practicing in Crowley for 13 years. His undergraduate and graduate-level training at Louisiana State University was focused in microbiology with emphasis on immunopathology, viral vaccine research, and biochemistry.

Dr. Aertker’s medical training began at LSU Medical Center of New Orleans in 2002, followed by LSU Earl K. Long Internal Medicine Residency in Baton Rouge from 2006-2009. Seeking to further his education, Dr. Aertker took an interim research opportunity on palliative care in Paris, France at L’hôpital Salpêtriôre. For the next two years, he then took an associate professorship with concentration in gastrointestinal/endoscopy at LSU Health in Baton Rouge while he was introduced to a hospitalist position at the American Legion Hospital of Crowley. Dr. Aertker has been a co-owner of Crowley Primary Care since its inception in 2014 along with Drs. Stephen Cannon, Claire Ronkartz, and Nancy Walker. He also shares his expertise with other medical services for the community as a Staff Consulting Physician for Compass Behavioral Health and Medical Director of Palliative and Hospice Care for Lamm Family Care Home Health and Hospice of Crowley.

Warrick Dunn ’93

named Louisiana Legend, chosen for CFB Hall of Fame

Catholic High alumnus and Grizzly Great, Warrick Dunn, added another honor to his long list of accomplishments on and off the football field as the 1993 CHS graduate was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame. Dunn will be inducted at a ceremony on December 10, 2024, in Las Vegas along with 21 other players and coaches.

Warrick Dunn ‘93 will also join a distinguished list of more than 150 people recognized by Louisiana Public Broadcasting as “Louisiana Legends.”

The New Orleans native played four years at Catholic High before accepting a scholarship to Florida State University. He was then selected 12th overall in the 1997 NFL draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played for six years, before spending six years with the Atlanta Falcons.

Off the field, Dunn founded Warrick Dunn Charities which includes his “Homes for the Holidays” program. The program is in honor of his mother, slain police officer Betty Smothers, and helps single parents with home furnishings and down payment assistance. Since 1997, Homes for the Holidays has helped more than 200 families in 27 different cities.

Bart Saia ’91

named Director of Alumni Relations for Catholic High School

In October, Mr. Bart Saia ’91 joined the Catholic High School faculty as the new Director of Alumni Relations.

Saia comes to Catholic High School after serving as the Athletic Director of Holy Family School for the past 20 years while building a career as an electrical distribution salesman. His experience in the Catholic school system combined with his business knowledge will be an asset to the Advancement Team’s mission.

Saia is a member of the CHS Class of 1991. He was a basketball player for the Bears, a track and field athlete, and a 1991 CHS Man of the Year. Saia says he is honored to be back at the place that molded him into the man he is today.

“It took me a while to get back, but I’m home,” said Saia when asked how he felt about returning to Catholic High School. “This place taught me how to put my faith in the forefront of everyday life. I still use the lessons I learned here daily, and I am honored to serve the alumni of this school and to help further the mission of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.”

Saia and his family are members of the St. Aloysius Catholic Church Parish. He and his wife Nanette (SJA ’97), have five daughters—Juliana Saia, Mary Hays Hinkle, Molly Saia, Charlotte Hinkle and Abigail Hinkle.

1971

P.M. LAROSE ’71 has released the eighth novel in his Beers Detective Agency series, “It’s Family, Beers.” New Orleans gumshoe Jim “Beers” Biersovich tackles four cases of murder and blackmail with a family angle. LaRose is a former Bear Facts editor.

1985

KEITH COMEAUX ’85 received NASA’s Outstanding Public Leadership Medal for his contributions to the success of the Perseverance Rover now operating on Mars. Perseverance is collecting rock and soil samples from an ancient river delta within Jezero Crater that would be returned by a future Mars Sample Return mission that Comeaux is currently supporting.

1998

BRYAN EHRICHT ’98 was elected 20232024 Chairman of the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants. He was named managing partner of the CPA firm, James Lambert Riggs & Associates in Hammond, Louisiana.

2003

RAOUL MANALAC ’03 announces the birth of a son, James Alan Manalac on July 26, 2023.

2004

MATTHEW CARLIN ’04 married Kaitlyn Perez on December 2, 2023 at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church in New Orleans.

REEVE LEGENDRE ’04 announces the arrival of his first born, Mabel Babin Legendre, on August 31, 2023.

2005

BEN MCARDLE ’05 has recently been named department manager of the Civil/Structural/Architectural department at Worley engineers. Worley is a global engineering and professional services company.

2006

ADAM LANDRY ’06 in August, Adam Landry and his wife, celebrated the birth of their second child Lillian Landry, joining her brother Luke Landry (born 6/10/21). Additionally, Adam was named Chief Operating Officer for

PALA-Interstate. PALA is a Baton Rouge based, employed owned industrial contractor, celebrating 50 years in business in 2023.

2008

HARVEY “LUKE” BEST V ’08 Camille Claire Best, daughter of Harvey “Luke” Best V, Class of 2008, and Emily Caillet Best, was born on August 7, 2023.

2010

BRETT FALGOUST ’10 and Meredith Falgoust announce the birth of their son, Thomas Glenn Falgoust, on June 29, 2023. Thomas weighed 8 pounds 12 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long.

2012

STEVEN HAYDEN ’12 and wife Sarah proudly announce the birth of their son, Tate Taylor, on February 22, 2023.

2013

BRANDON FRESINA ’13 received the LATA Backbone Award from the Louisiana Trainers Association. This award recognizes an assistant athletic

trainer that has played a major role as backbone to the Head Athletic Trainer. This award is for the person in the trenches that is there day to day providing what is needed in the athletic training room, the true professional.

2016

DANIEL G. GUNN ’16 recently passed the CPA Exam with an average grade of 92 and completed his first year at LSU Law Center with a GPA of 3.8, ranking 4th out of 204 law students. He was awarded the honor of “Law Review” based upon his scholastic excellence.

2017

BEN SMITH ’17 was named Rapid Response Director for the National Republican Congressional Committee. He resides in Washington, D.C.

2019

ROSS DENICOLA IV ’19 received his service assignment from the United States Naval Academy in November. Ross was accepted into the Navy Pilot Warfare community and will be relocating to Pensacola for his assignment.

2021

MASON GUY ’21

attended the Anne Frank Center’s inaugural youth conference for students interested in expanding communitybased Holocaust education. The group

visited the state’s oldest synagogue then toured the International African American Museum and McLeod Plantation on James Island. They also took a walking tour of the city, learning about key Jewish sites, visiting the Charleston Holocaust Memorial, and joining Holocaust survivors and their families for dinner. Mason says he plans to share more about the Jewish-American culture, but also African American culture with his community with the hope that the two can come together to build prosperity.

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 June 30, 2023 to December 31, 2023 in honor or memory of loved ones. Please remember these alumni and friends, as well as their families, in your prayers.

Memorial Gifts

Deceased members of CHS Class ’73

Mr. and Mrs. James G. Arbour ’73

Brother John Abate

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Quinlan III ’87

Mrs. Elizabeth Alch

Mr. and Mrs. Rudy C. Valenciano

Ms. Carolyn B. Alexander

Mrs. Eva “Boostsie” Crochet

Mr. Ronnie Amoroso

Mr. Darren A. Madaffari ’96

Mr. David Assaf Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard R. Assaf ’91

Mr. Carl Babin

Babin and DeNicola Law Firm

Mr. Harold I. Bahlinger Jr. ’82

Mr. John Guthrie Jr

Mr. and Mrs. Darrell P. Ourso

Dr. Charles D. Selig ’68

Mr. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. and Mrs. William E. Balhoff

Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Bogan III ’73

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Thomas

Mr. and Mrs. Rudy C. Valenciano

Mr. and Mrs. Lynn J. Webre Jr. ’53

Mr. Thomas A. Barfield Sr. ’53

Dr. and Dr. Louis R. Barfield Sr. ’89

Mr. Adam M. Barksdale ’02

Dr. and Mrs. John M. Barksdale Jr.

Mr. John N. Barnett

Mr. and Mrs. Martin Lanneau

Reverend Mark B. Beard ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Arbour ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. Ashby ’79

Dr. and Mrs. Tim A. Bella ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Louis M. Bienvenu ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Mr. Richard L. Bourgeois, Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. James B. Broussard ’79

Mr. Thornton L. Cappel III ’79

Dr. and Mrs. Curtis C. Chastain II ’79

Mr. and Mrs. James R. Chastain Jr. ’82

Mr. and Mrs. Gordon B. Clark Jr. ’77

Mr. John M. Cronin ’79

Dr. and Mrs. Oscar A. Cruz ’79

Mr. Todd A Gerald ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Edwin A. Graves Jr. ’79

Mr. and Dr. Kevin P. Guidry ’79

Mr. and Mrs. David T. Guitreau ’79

Mr. and Mrs. David K. Hatcher ’79

Mr. and Mrs. John K. Hoffman Sr. ’72

Mr. David T. Johnson ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth P. Keller ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence M. Kleinpeter Jr. ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel M. Landry ’79

Mr. Jacque G. Lasseigne ’79

Mr. Anthony B. Leggio III ’79

Mrs. Joni Leggio

Mr. Theodore R. Lieux ’12

Mr. and Mrs. Scott A. McConnell ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Mark W. McGinnis ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew D. McLindon ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Mark L. Mestayer ’76

Mrs. Carolyn Mills

Mr. and Mrs. John P. Morgan ’79

Mr. Douglas J. Nelson ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Kevin M. Ortego ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Jude J. Palombo ’79

Dr. and Mrs. Scott M. Pecue ’79

Mr. and Mrs. Shepard F. Perrin III ’79

Mr. and Mrs. John A. Stuart Jr. ’64

Mr. Ernest N. Tanoos Jr. ’79

Mr. C.D. Vasser, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Craig S. Wall ’79

Mr. Brett P. Weimer ’79

Mr. Miles B. Williams, Sr. ’79

Mr. Gaston P. Bergeron

Dr. and Mrs. Gregory A. Brandao ’73

Brother Donnan Berry, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Rudy C. Valenciano

Mr. Fred J. Borne Jr. ’71

Mr. John N. Giamalva ’71

Mr. Bryan P. Boudet ’92

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

Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin McCurry

Dr. and Mrs. George S. Bourgeois ’46

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Bourgeois

Mr. Samson Breen

Mr. and Mrs. Dedrick Houk

Mr. Benjamin C. Brown ’99

Dr. and Mrs. William F. Hagemann

Dr. Joseph W. Brown III

Dr. and Mrs. William F. Hagemann

Judge William H. Brown

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Besselman

Mr. Brennan E. Bujol ’14

Mr. and Mrs. Claiborne Duval

Mr. James Cazayoux

Dr. and Mrs. Robert V. Cazayoux ’51

Mrs. Ella R. Chapman

Mr. and Mrs. James McCartt

Mr. Frank J. Culotta Jr. ’59

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

Mr. John L. Daniel Jr. ’73

Ms. Debbie Daniel

Mrs. Maria C. De Biasi

Mrs. Kate Buogo

Dr. Ross J. DeNicola Jr. Babin and DeNicola Law Firm

Mr. Denver R. Denison ’16

Mr. Blair P. Bogan ’16

Mr. Chase C. Brouillette ’16

City Cafe

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. Arthur C. DeOliveira ’90

Ms. Amy M. DeOliveira

Mr. Verne J. Dicharry Jr. ’62

Mr. Robby Apple

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald K. Babb

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Ms. Jill Dawson

Ms. Leslie Dicharry

Mr. Dan Jumonville

Miss Aland P. Rodrigue

Mr. Keith Thibodeaux

Mr. Donald Williamson

Ms. Marti B. Didier

Mr. and Mrs. Stanley L. Braud Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew C. Brown ’94

Mrs. Mattia B. Didier

Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Smith Sr.

Mr. Stewart L. Dietrich ’40

Mr. Daryl J. Dietrich

Mrs. Mary E. Doran

Mr. and Mrs. Sid LeBlanc

Mrs. Frances L. Obrecht

Mr. Todd Richard

Mr. Sam Savarino

Mr. Fred J. Esparza

Ms. Sandra Macdonald

Brother Carl Evans, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. David Olivier

Mr. and Mrs. Florav Fernandez

Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Fernandez ’72

Mr. Kevin C. Franklin ’93

Mr. and Mrs. Jay Fertitta

Mr. Dionigi Furano

Mr. Darren A. Madaffari ’96

Mr. Toby C. Gerhold

Ms. Marie Pontti

Mr. Anthony J. Graphia III ’39

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel J. Teri Jr.

Mr. William B. Greene Jr.

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

Mr. James A. Gremillion ’51

Mr. and Mrs. James Buuck

Mr. Joshua M. Hoffpauir ’98

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan H. Hebert ’98

Mr. Matthew V. Hopkins ’08

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Batsche

Mr. Charles D. Hotard ’57

Ms. Susanne Heroman

Mr. Davis C. Hotard ’89

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Hotard ’85

Mr. Chris Hsu Sr.

Dr. and Dr. Joseph R. Hsu ’90

Mr. Kyle M. Jackson ’07

Mr. Austin A. Gerald ’09

Mr. Jules F. Landry ’23

Mr. David P. Borghardt ’02

Mr. Melvin J. LeBlanc Jr. ’52

Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. LeBlanc ’75

Mr. Clarence A. Ledig ’29

Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Ledig ’73

Dr. Clyde Lindsey

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Mr. Norris A. Marchand ’52

Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. DiVincenti Sr. ’70

Mr. Joseph R. McCall III ’63

Mr. Derek Fitch

Mrs. Marta H. McCarron

Ms. Nancy P. Herin

Mr. Robert L. McCarron Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Alejandro C. Vara ’91

Mr. Jacob M. Meek ’17

Mr. and Mrs. William C. Baird Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Quinlan III ’87

Mr. Clarence J. Melancon Sr. ’42

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Melancon ’82

Mr. Alvin C. Moreau Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Michael D. DiVincenti Sr. ’70

Mr. Pete Hirschey

Mr. and Mrs. Lee Moreau

Mr. Matthew L. Moreau ’14

Mr. Jeffrey D. Nola ’94

Mr. and Mrs. Stanley L. Braud Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Andrew C. Brown ’94

Mrs. Elizabeth R. Collins

Mr. Stephen Fertitta

Mr. and Mrs. James P. Kelly ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey C. Townsend

Mrs. Christina Waggoner

Mr. C. Anthony Nolan ’92

Dr. and Mrs. Michael B. Dunn II ’92

Mr. Milton M. Ourso Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Milton M. Ourso III ’88

Mr. Elijah J. Palmer ’20

Mrs. Bonnie M. Hunt

Mr. Donald J. Plaisance Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Mr. and Mrs. Paul M. Hebert Jr. ’64

Mr. and Mrs. John A. Stuart Jr. ’64

Mrs. Shelley Zeringue

Dr. Daniel J. Richardson ’69

Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Newchurch

Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Sanchez

Mr. and Mrs. Edward W. Sanchez Jr. ’61

Mr. David B. Shapiro ’89

Dr. and Mrs. Leonard M. Lopoo ’86

Mr. Greg A. Sollie

Mr. Matthew S. Daigle ’10

Mr. Doyle J. Suarez Jr. ’40

Mrs. Doyle Suarez

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Thibodeaux ’53

Mr. and Mrs. Lynn J. Webre Jr. ’53

Mr. Warren N. Virgets Sr. ’48

Mr. and Mrs. Leo G. Abel ’89

Mr. and Mrs. T. F. Virgets ’78

Mr. Henry A. Weilbacher ’65

Mr. and Mrs. Randolph J. Bonnecaze ’65

Mr. and Mrs. Randall J. Ellis Sr. ’65

Mrs. Irene F. Gardemal Bourque

Honorary Gifts

Mr. Aiden J. Acosta ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Acosta

Mr. Ethan J. Albarado ’27

Mrs. Monique Blystad

Mr. Cale M. Alexander ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Alexander

Mr. Rob Hebert

Mr. Rico Melancon

Mr. Cooper C. Babin ’28

Ms. Irene DeNicola

Mr. Justin Batiste ’27

Mrs. Leekeisha Monroe

Mr. Daniel B. Beale ’24

Mr. and Mrs. W. B. Beale

Mrs. Marilyn Maillet

Mr. Kellan J. Boudreaux ’26

Dr. and Mrs. Kelly Boudreaux

Mr. Jacob L. Bradford ’25

Stacy, Alanna, Dee, and Briana Bradford

Mr. Clayton J. Brown ’27

Mrs. Ann Stelly Kleinpeter

Mrs. Elizabeth Klibert

Mrs. Rebecca Roy

Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy Stelly

Ms. Tiffany Stelly

Mr. Ian Z. Brown ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dickinson

Mr. Britton J. Brumfield ’24

Mr. Victor J. Brumfield Jr. ’98

Mr. Dale Oufnac

Mr. Anthony P. Canizaro ’24

Ms. Kariya A. Canizaro

Mr. John M. Carley ’25

Ms. Gwynette Dixon

Mr. William W. Caro ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Bradley J. Caro ’96

Dr. and Mrs. Richard J. Caro Sr.

Mr. Bubba Smith

Mr. Walter C. Cathey III ’25

Mr. Richard Benbow

Mr. Javarro Edwards

Mrs. JoAnne McKenzie

Mr. Corby Starr

Class of 1994

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

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick N. Broyles ’94

Mr. and Mrs. Neal R. Lamonica ’94

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey A. Ponson ’94

Mr. Amari J. Clayton ’25

Mrs. Candy Galicia

Mrs. Billie Keelen

Mrs. Cleopatra Shelton

Mr. Colin M. Coates ’24

Mr. Scott Barnes

Mrs. Tammie Cappo

Mr. Elliot Coates

Mrs. Erin Rogers

Mrs. Melanie Vidrine

Mr. Brennan H. Coco ’24

Ms. Leslie A. Frazier

Mr. Samuel Coleman III ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Coleman Jr.

Mr. Vincent M. Cutrone ’26

Mrs. Gail Cutrone

Mr. John Cutrone

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Cutrone

Mr. Lawrence Cutrone

Mr. Victor Cutrone

Mr. TarJon B. Dearbone ’26

Mrs. Tara Dearbone

Mr. John R. DeMoss ’26

Worldwide Spirit Association

Mr. Cole T. Desormeaux ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Desormeaux

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick F. Dulaney ’92

Mr. Chase C. Brouillette ’16

Mr. Cooper G. Dupree ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Dupree

Mr. and Mrs. Drew T. Gasser ’92

Mr. and Mrs. Harold D. Dupuy ’73

Mr. and Mrs. J. Michael Orlesh Jr.

Mr. Miles C. Egros ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Egros

Mr. Nicholas J. Ferrell ’24

Mrs. Angela Marchetti

Mrs. Emily Fetty

Mr. and Mrs. Stan I. Heine ’73

Mr. Tanner O. Forbes ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Danny Forbes

Mrs. Stacey Forbes

Mrs. Mary Olexy

Mr. Brady G. Foreman ’27

Mrs. Celeste Fletcher

Mr. Jack W. Fourrier ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Chico D. Moore

Mr. Porter T. Fourrier ’25

Mrs. Mary Jane Nasca

Mr. Hudson J. Foy ’28

Ms. Meredith Eicher

Mr. and Mrs. Adam C. Foy ’00

Mr. DJ Ponder

Mr. and Mrs. Donald E. Ponder

Mr. Luke M. Funes ’24

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Funes ’89

Dr. and Mrs. Ronaldo Funes

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Funes ’89

Mr. James L. Gahagan ’27

Mrs. Allyson Brooks

Mr. and Mrs. John Gahagan Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Hart

Mr. William E. Roberts ’92

Mr. Edward C. George ’27

Mrs. Meredith Delord

Mrs. Susie George

Mr. Charles L. Gilcrease ’27

Mr. Steve Gilcrease

Mr. Vincent Gilcrease

Mrs. Cynthia Wyatt

Mr. Taylor L. Goldsmith ’26

Mrs. Lina Courville

Mrs. Abby G

Mr. and Mrs. L. Charles Musgrove Jr. ’89

Mr. and Mrs. Homer Thomason

Mr. Turner J. Goldsmith ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Goldsmith

Mr. and Mrs. L. Charles Musgrove Jr. ’89

Mr. David P. Graham ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Jason R. Graham

Mrs. Gretchen Harrelson

Mrs. Emily Hensgens

Mrs. Julie Reed

Mr. Baylor C. Graves ’26

Mrs. Celeste Small

Mr. Charles W. Grey ’22

Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Grey III ’88

Mr. Michael T. Griggs III ’25

Mr. Daryl G. May ’82

Mr. and Mrs. M. Trent Griggs ’93

Balfour Emonet Law Firm

Mrs. Aimee Griggs

Ms. Lynn Griggs

Mr. and Mrs. Kelly S. Walker

Mr. and Mrs. Ted W. Harvey

Mr. Korey D. Harvey ’02

Mr. Corey J. Hatch ’25

Henry Collins

Mr. and Mrs. Terry L. Gray Jr. ’96

Brother Ray Hebert, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Plauche’ II

Mr. Jacob M. Heinz ’26

Mr. Richard Beattie

Mr. Stephen A. Herin ’21

Ms. Nancy P. Herin

Mr. Jack R. Hernandez ’28

Mr. William Brunson

Mr. Lucas T. Hoang ’27

Airline Auto Center

Mr. Jackson S. Hodges ’26

Mrs. Patricia Gabriel

Mr. Hunter L. Jarreau ’28

Mr. and Mrs. Chad Jarreau

Mr. Logan Landry

Mr. John R. Joffrion ’25

Mrs. Julia Jewell

Mr. and Mrs. Russ Joffrion

Mr. Carson Johnson

Mr. Randall Boseman

Mr. Karson M. Johnson Harris ’25

Mr. Harold Johnson

Mrs. Qiana Johnson

Mr. Cayden J. Jones ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin McCurry

Mrs. Kory Mckee

Mr. Maxwell G. Jones ’28

Ms. Eilleen K. Jones and Mr. Frank Carney

Mrs. Kathleen Mummert

Mr. Theodore W. Jones Jr. ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Jones

Mr. Weston S. Jones ’26

Mr. and Mrs. James Faircloth

Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Jones Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Jones Jr. ’99

Mr. Lawson J. Juge ’26

Mrs. Michelle Ridgway

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

Mr. and Mrs. John Paul Funes ’87

Mr. Robert M. Kasongo ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Celestin Kasongo Sr.

Mr. and Mrs. Jason Serpas

Mr. Caldwell D. Kerth ’25

Dr. and Mrs. Jamie W. Broussard ’90

Mr. and Mrs. David Kerth

Mrs. Rhonda Kerth

Mr. Harrison D. Kidder ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Glen Kidder

Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Kitchell

Dr. and Mrs. Christopher M. Funes ’89

Mr. Thomas C. Kleinpeter ’24

Ms. Lynn Boudreaux

Mr. Michael P. Krzystowczyk ’17

The Drs. Krzystowczyk

Mr. Lawson G. Landry ’27

Mr. Craig Landry

Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Landry

Mrs. Glenda Stubbs

Mr. Wilson B. Landry ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Eric Landry

Mr. and Mrs. John Landry

Mr. Cohen R. LeBlanc ’25

Cajun Industries, LLC

Mr. Ryan Solar

Mr. Manuel G. Llaneza IV ’27

Mrs. Abby Anderson

Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Llaneza

Mr. Manuel Llaneza

Mrs. Paula Llaneza

Mr. Bennie Logan

Jennifer Enlow

Jessica Logan

Dr. and Mrs. Carl S. Luikart ’72

Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Jacobs

Mr. and Mrs. James Magette

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Raley

Mr. Ian J. Marcin ’24

Mr. and Mrs. John M. Marcin ’81

Mr. Edward A. McBride ’27

Mrs. Amy Kurtz

Mr. Patrick McBride

Brother Malcolm Melcher, S.C.

Mr. and Mrs. David P. Brewerton ’92

Mr. Adam J. Michel ’27

Mrs. Lindsey Neyland

Mrs. Pam Zeringue

Mr. Weston J. Millard ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Gerald G. Millard ’97

Mr. Eli O. Miller ’27

Mr. Brant Faircloth

Mr. Eddie Miller

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Miller

Mr. Reed S. Moise ’24

Ms. Pam Finley

Mr. Christian T. Moody ’26

Agaha Brass

Mrs. Lori Green Johnson

Mr. Keenan Mcbride

Odom’s Kitchen

Brady T. Moore

Ms. Tiffany Moore

Mr. Thomas M. Moran ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Moran ’86

Mr. Dale M. Mouch III ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Dale M. Mouch

Mr. Winston M. Napoli ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Kendall L. Diel ’65

Mr. Logan M. Nguyen ’25

Mrs. Barbara Flake

Mr. and Mrs. Tien Nguyen

Mr. Samuel P. Norman ’25

Mrs. Barbara Davidson

Mr. Edmund LaTour

Mrs. Carmelita Norman

Mrs. Melinda Parmer

Mr. Alijah J. O’Bear ’26

Mr. Alex Ambeau

Mr. Lionel Lewis

Mr. Garner B. O’Neal ’25

Mrs. Jana Strickland

Mr. Rylan J. Parker ’25

Mr. Gustave A. Piazza III ’25

Mr. Sean M. Perret ’25

Mr. Timothy Kennedy

Mrs. Jennifer Passanante

Mr. and Mrs. Ken A. Perret Sr.

Mr. Preston T. Perry ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Henry F. Pecue III ’95

Perry Dental Care

Mr. and Mrs. Shelton W. Perry

Mr. Ethan M. Pickering ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Pickering

Mr. Joshua M. Pitts ’26

Mr. Terrence Ginn

Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pitts

Mr. Felix Vincent

Mr. Alexander D. Politz ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Scott D. Politz ’93

Mrs. Carey Wells

Mr. Grant A. Politz ’26

Mrs. Carey Wells

Mrs. Stephanie Heine Potter

Mr. and Mrs. Stan I. Heine ’73

Mr. Jake P. Puls ’26

Mrs. Jo Ann Puls

Mr. Carson A. Rice ’28

Mr. and Mrs. Mark A. Clark ’84

Mr. and Mrs. John Rice

Col. and Mrs. Charles Z. Ridgway Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Jared J. Juge ’82

Mr. Lamond L. Robinson ’27

Mrs. DeVora Knight

Mr. Kooper V. Rome ’27

Mrs. Edith Soulier

Mr. Hudson C. Rounds ’25

Mr. Bill Caldwell

Mrs. Wesley Mincin

Mr. and Mrs. Chad M. Rounds ’99

Mr. Oliver J. Sabine ’25

Mrs. Kristin Cantwell

Mrs. Cherrie Claiborne

Mrs. Heidi Guercio

Mr. Benjamin T. Sandahl ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Trent Sandahl

Mr. Hunter E. Savoie ’25

Assumption Animal Hospital

Mr. and Mrs. Sean Prados

Mr. and Mrs. C.J. Savoie

Mrs. Nina Savoie

Mr. Evan J. Schenk ’28

Ms. Amy Owenby

Mrs. Brooke Romagnano

Mr. Ryan Schenk

Mr. Hayes J. Schramm ’28

Mr. and Mars. Callen Schramm

Mr. and Mrs. Nalton Thompson

Mr. Lucas C. Schramm ’24

Mr. and Mars. Callen Schramm

Mr. and Mrs. Nalton Thompson

Mr. Jackson S. Shaw ’27

Mrs. Tiffany Davis

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Shaw

Mr. and Mrs. Stephen M. Smith ’02

Mr. and Mrs. John Thompson

Mr. Caleb J. Shelton ’25

Mrs. Diana Bertrand

Mr. and Mrs. Larry J. Langlois

Mrs. Jillian Snyder

Mrs. Mandi Williams

Mr. Joshua L. Shelton ’26

Mrs. Diana Bertrand

Mr. and Mrs. Larry J. Langlois

Mr. James Shelton

Mr. Jr Shelton

Mrs. Jillian Snyder

Mrs. Mandi Williams

Mr. Ervin J. Smith III ’25

Mrs. Demetria Henry

Mrs. Irma Miller

Mrs. Venita Smith

Mrs. Shelita Williams

Mr. Mickey J. Smith ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Mickey Smith

Mr. Derald J. Spears ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Derald Spears Sr.

Mr. Grant S. Speer ’26

Mr. Kevin Reckert

Mrs. Jessie Treadaway

Mr. Isaiah R. Stokes

Mrs. Quita Williams

Mr. Aiden L. Strief ’27

Dr. and Mrs. Pressley Campbell

Mr. Beau M. Thomas ’26

Mr. Steven Bradley

Mr. Michael Thomas

Mr. Tommy Thomas

Mr. Blaise R. Thomassie ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Overall

Mr. and Mrs. Roland Thomassie

Mr. Benjamin N. Tilley ’24

HUDCO Roofing and Exteriors

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Tilley Sr.

Mr. Pearce D. Tompkins ’27

Mrs. Rebecca Harris

Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Tompkins Sr.

Mr. David Van Geffen

Mrs. Kate Venturi

Mrs. Bridget Tonore

Mr. and Mrs. Brett Johnson

Mr. Alexander P. Traylor ’26

Mrs. Jennifer Wiczynski

Mr. Hunter J. Ullrich ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Gates Brelsford

Mr. Ryan Brust

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Johnston

Mr. Steven Ullrich

Mr. Brett B. Vidrine ’15

Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy M. Vidrine

Mr. Wyatt M. Vincent ’25

Mrs. Brandi Clay

Mr. and Mrs. Kelly S. Walker

Mr. Anthony J. Waguespack ’25

Mr. and Mrs. Daniel J. Waguespack ’98

Mr. Sid Waguespack

Mr. Brady E. Waguespack ’25

Ms. Judy Waguespack

Mr. Wyatt J. Wall ’27

Mr. and Mrs. Mackie E. Wall III ’92

Mr. Reis C. Wascom ’28

Mr. and Mrs. Howard Wascom

Mr. Layton W. Welch ’25

Mrs. Kala Johnson

Brother Xavier Werneth, S.C.

Mr. Chase C. Brouillette ’16

Mr. James A. Wilkinson ’28

Mr. Donald Halloran

Mr. Cooper J. Williams ’26

Mrs. Cathi Williams

Mr. and Mrs. Larry Williams

John Winchester

Mr. and Mrs. Danny Winchester

Mr. Jaylon T. Wood ’24

Mrs. Earlisha Newman

Mr. Bradley C. Wright ’24

Mr. Clyde D. Edwards Helaire ’17

Mr. Jackson H. Young ’26

Mr. Carl Boucher

Mrs. AnneMarie Isbell

Mrs. Colleen Turner

Mr. Hayden A. Zeber ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Anthony P. DeMarco

Mr. and Mrs. Neal Zeber

Mr. Chandler M. Zimmerman ’26

Mr. and Mrs. Brad Zimmerman

Mr. Lance R. Zimmerman ’24

Mr. and Mrs. Lee Comeaux

Mr. Ty Harris

Mr. and Mrs. Richard F. Zimmerman III ’00

Dr. and Mrs. Luke A. Zumo, PT ’04

Applied Materials, Inc.

MEMORIAM

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 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. Daniel R. Annison ’47

Mr. Harold I. Bahlinger Sr. ’53

Mr. Gerald A. Bello II ’89

Mr. Nicholas F. Cascio II ’64

Mr. Stanley E. Cheatham

Mr. Steve L. Collins ’69

Mr. Richard F. Conran ’58

Mr. Joseph R. Corsentino ’48

Dr. Adolph Brooks Cronan Jr. ’52

Mr. Verne J. Dicharry Jr. ’62

Mr. William J. Drago ’50

Mr. Wiley F. Duke Jr. ’44

Mr. Anthony V. Graphia ’55

Mr. Christian P. Hansen Jr. ’48

Mrs. Marion Hopkins

Mr. Ulyesse J. LeGrange ’48

Mr. Jack L. Manno ’56

Mr. Norris A. Marchand ’52

Mr. Robert V. McAnelly

Mr. Alvin C. Moreau Jr.

Mr. Donald J. Plaisance Jr. ’64

Mr. Henry A. Weilbacher ’65

CHS Archives Treasures of the Past

This shield symbolizes membership in the Student Military Training Corps (SMTC) - an organization that was mandatory for all CHS high school students in the 1940s.

Donated by Colonel James F. Coerver ’46

DID YOU KNOW: In the 1940s, CHS students were formed into companies, military style, with a company commander. On drill day the students were required to wear uniforms - khaki shirts and pants. The group performed at half-time at an afternoon LSU football game.

Donated by Dr. Taylor L. Riché ’96.

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

An assortment of Christmas ornaments created for the annual CHS Founder’s Banquet and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This became a tradition for the banquet in the early 1990s and continues to this day.

Anonymous donor

A band uniform worn by Dr. Taylor Riché, drum major of the CHS Bruin Band from 1995-1996.

Sports in the

The Catholic High School Men’s Club BBQ has always been an event where graduates come together to rekindle memories. This year’s BBQ was the setting for an impromptu reunion for Coach John Rosso ’70 and some members of his 8th grade football team whose paths had not crossed in over 50 years. Both had lasting memories from that brief season in the fall of 1972.

Rosso’s playing days were over when Frank Culotta ’59 called wanting him to be his assistant at Sacred Heart. The next year Rosso found himself the coach at Our Lady of Mercy. Head coach Barrett Murphy ’55 called the following year with the intentions of starting an 8th grade football team. Rosso understood the 8th grade class was primarily an academic class, but he jumped at the opportunity.

Brother Gordian’s boot camp class of Introductory

Physical Science set the stage for the announcement of the team. Ricky Lea ’77 recalled: “We were surprised when Brother Gordian stopped class as he was all business. Coach Murphy walked in and introduced John Rosso as our coach.”

John Rosso in reflecting back to the season said: “For the most part it was an academic class with few athletes. They gave me everything they had. They had to have a lot of heart to compete and they gave me their heart and soul. I told them: ‘No one is going to push you harder but I will be there with you.’ It was a learning experience for us all.”

As Rosso rekindled memories at the BBQ, two incidents were ingrained in the memories of the coach and his players. Rosso reflecting back recalled, “David Barbay’s dad had been a prisoner of war for about seven years and had just returned from Vietnam. We were in the middle of practice and I saw him get out of a car to come watch practice. I immediately stopped practice so everyone could meet David’s dad as he was a true hero.”

The other incident occurred after a tough loss. Coach Rosso recalled, “When we got off the old white bus I had the players head to the field as I felt we were missing something in the heart and I wanted to work with the team. It was not punishment, I just wanted them to find something that we were

BY DAVID BUTLER ’77

missing in the game.” The annual Mothers’ Club fair was also being held in the vicinity of the field. Rosso’s team went through a few drills as fairgoers could not help but observe. Coach Murphy quickly put an end to the extra session.

“They gave me everything they had. They had to have a lot of heart to compete and they gave me their heart and soul.”

—Coach John Rosso ’70

Laughing at the memory Lea said, “We got off the bus and headed to the field with everyone watching us. It was a lesson in life meant to teach us the necessity of hard work and sacrifice. I was inspired by the 8th grade football experience. It made me realize I was part of a tradition. It got through to me. Coach Rosso taught me never to quit or give up. John Rosso rubbed off on us. Six guys from our 8th grade team went on to play varsity football and all six started on the 1976 state semi-final team.”

Rosso proudly stated: “The team was comprised of students from all around. They were playing against teams whose players knew each other and had years together. Our guys did not have those advantages. They came together and had to quickly learn each other, new plays and positions. These kids were not expected to do anything, but we were always in the mix. They never gave up. It was an amazing group of kids.”

1972 8th grade football team

In a Bold Move, Brothers and Sisters Forge a New Animated Community.

BY BROTHER MICHAEL MIGACZ, S.C.

The Catholic High Marching Band has been taking to the streets. In practicing for upcoming parades, they made a surprise visit to 3134 Hundred Oaks Center where brothers and sisters reside at a new retirement facility. Several of the brothers and sisters cheerfully came out to hear them perform some songs.

This retirement residence has been the talk of the town since June 12 when the brothers who lived on the CHS campus, moved in with the Sisters of St. Joseph to create a new unique community.

The first thing to note is that these religious men and women are not just living under the same roof, sharing space—they are sharing themselves. They pray together at Liturgies, listen to each other’s stories while at meals, and engage with each other at social occasions. This is not two separate communities, but one vibrant community. The brothers and sisters are striving to form strong bonds, making sure each person feels accepted, affirmed, and loved.

There is something like Pentecost going on. The Spirit is always moving to break down barriers and to unite, as we see here. The Spirit also recreates and brings new life. Not only are these brothers and sisters bonding and building unity, which is a main feature of Religious Life, they are all being energized by the adventure. I have heard that some brothers and sisters who may have felt stale and disconnected before the merger, are now engaging with others. Many opportunities to socially get together are being explored, like late morning coffee sessions, afternoon matinees in the TV room to watch current movies, game nights, etc. Many are now comfortable in volunteering to proclaim the Word at Mass, more are open to sharing their incites at prayer times, and with the gathering of male and female voices, the singing is noticeably lively (maybe even harmonious).

Since we are speaking of the Spirit, we might as well use the word “miracle.” This is because the situation here is radical and unique. We cannot think of any other instance of men and women religious coming together to reside with each other. It is not just “working” on a practical level; the experiment is revitalizing the lives of these dedicated people as they rethink and revision what community can be. The Spirit is molding and shaping these elderly Religious to experience friendship and love in a fantastic way. It is amazing to see them open to being formed.

I have always been taught that community life offers moments, or “graces of conversion.” In looking at these elderly Religious, it is so astounding to see that God is never done with us—God is constantly nudging us forward, inviting us to grow, even when we think we are too old and can’t change.

I don’t know what prompted the band to appear at the doorsteps of the Hundred Oaks Center. Maybe on some level, our students yearn to see men and women who witness to faithfulness and sincerity. Maybe the young people wanted to express their honor and respect for such dedicated people, who with this new venture, bring hope. Whatever brought the young and old together, this new enterprise on Hundred Oaks is certainly an occasion to bang the drums and sound the trumpets.

The world may not be calling you to become a Brother of the Sacred Heart, but maybe God is! Brother Michael

Vocation

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