FOR ALUMNI, PARENTS & FRIENDS OF CREIGHTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL • WINTER 2018/19
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT: VOCAL MUSIC 10
PREP IN UGANDA 12
REUNION WEEKEND RECAP 24
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE With the winter season upon us once again, I think back to what it must have been like 140 years ago when the first group of Creighton Prep students, their families, and members of the faculty and staff were bracing for the bitter cold and snow promised by earlier Nebraska winters. With the nation in full rebuilding mode after the Civil War and Nebraska’s population booming with new settlers in the midst of tough economic times, I think about the faith they placed in God, in each other and in the mission of Jesuit and Catholic education to which they committed themselves. Faith in God, in each other and in our mission is still the foundation on which we operate at Prep in adding to the great legacy they established so long ago. Beginning on Page 4, you will get a brief glimpse of the years, the events and the people that shaped our school followed by what we’re doing today to build on that history. Going forward, part of our strategic plan calls for Prep to act more globally so that we can both stretch the generosity of our spirits to those in great need beyond our borders and, in turn, learn from faraway experiences how to become more actively present in the communities in which we study and work every day. This past summer, theology teachers Sean Joyce Whipp ‘96 and Kathy O’Keefe ventured to northern Uganda to explore what global action of that magnitude might look like for our faculty and students, standing in solidarity with their peers at Ocer Campion Jesuit College and with the refugees pouring in from neighboring countries. Also intent on providing more global action opportunities for students is alumnus Fr. John P. Fitzgibbons, SJ ‘73, the president of Regis University in Denver who is profiled in this magazine as well and with whom I had the distinct pleasure of visiting and celebrating Mass during Reunion Weekend. Of course, Prep also continues to be about people, including our deserving students and so many of you who continue to inspire us with your amazingly other-centered natures. As we celebrate and reflect on 2018, please know how grateful I am for everything you do to make Prep possible for our young men. Your generosity is a great example to all of us here who work daily to form them as Men for Others. Sincerely,
Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ President Creighton Preparatory School
*Rendering of Lannon Learning Commons used on cover courtesy of HBA Architects.
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Celebrating All Saints Day Mass in the Heider Center.
VOLUME 62 NO. 2 WINTER 2018/19 Published by:
Creighton Prep 7400 Western Avenue Omaha, NE 68114-1878 402-393-1190 CreightonPrep.org
IN THIS ISSUE
President:
4
COVER STORY
Men for Others for 140 Years
20 Creighton Prep Sports Night with Lou Holtz
A timeline of developments to meet the ever changing needs of our students.
21 Sophomore Career Day 22 Alumni Spotlight: Fr. John Fitzgibbons, SJ ‘73
8 Activities and Clubs
10 Program Spotlight: Vocal Music Rob Chesire guides the very talented Prep vocal musicians to develop their gifts even further.
23 Prep Gatherings Coast-to-Coast
24 Reunion Weekend 2018 A recap of superb events that included golf, class socials and the Preptoberfest celebration of Prep’s 140th year.
12 Prep in Uganda Strengthening a long established connection to the largely Christian country of Uganda.
14 Prep News: Highlights from Campus 16 New at Prep 18 Summer and Fall Sports
26 Here & There 28 Lannon Learning Commons Update 29 Loyola Dinner of Honor and Distinction 30 Please Remember
Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ TNeitzke@CreightonPrep.org Head of School:
Jim Bopp JBopp@CreightonPrep.org Assistant to the President:
John Naatz JNaatz@CreightonPrep.org Vice President of Advancement:
Rick Berger ‘76 RBerger@CreightonPrep.org Director of Communications:
Olivia Poggenpohl OPoggenpohl@CreightonPrep.org Director of Annual Funds:
Taylor Stormberg ‘09 TStormberg@CreightonPrep.org Principal Gifts Officer:
Dede Crowley DCrowley@CreightonPrep.org Director of Alumni Relations:
Max Huerter ‘09 MHuerter@CreightonPrep.org Director of Events:
2019 CALENDAR
Amy Gilroy Knight AKnight@CreightonPrep.org
SATURDAY, JANUARY 12, 2019
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2019
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2019
8th Grade Scholarship &
6th/7th Grade Pre-Entrance Exam
Beach BASH 2019
Entrance Exam
Register at CreightonPrep.org/pretest.
The Heider Center at Creighton Prep
MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2019
SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2019
Athletic Hall of Fame
Graduation Ceremony for the
Father-Son Mass and Breakfast
Induction Ceremony
Class of 2019 and Jubilarian
Embassy Suites by Hilton OmahaLa Vista Hotel & Conference Center
The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep
Reunion for the Class of 1969
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2019
Register at CreightonPrep.org/exam.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 27, 2019
CP Trivia Night
The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep
Advancement Associate:
Terri Haller THaller@CreightonPrep.org Advancement Administrative Support:
Stephanie Kremla Heng SKremla@CreightonPrep.org Donor Relations:
The Heider Center at Creighton Prep
Grace Cominoli GCominoli@CreightonPrep.org
eBASH
MONDAY, MAY 20, 2019
Communications Specialist:
Bid at BidPal.net/eBASH starting March 22.
Alumni Golf Tournament
MARCH 22 TO APRIL 12, 2019
SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 2019
Shadow Ridge Country Club
Pat Neary ‘78 PNeary@CreightonPrep.org
Beach BASH 2019 Patron Party
At the home of Beth and David Kramer ‘83 WINTER 2018/19
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A timeline of developments
to meet the ever changing needs of our students
1870s
The entity that eventually becomes Creighton Prep is started and grows through the generosity of brothers Edward and John Creighton and their wives, sisters Mary Lucretia and Sarah Emily Wareham. After accumulating great wealth from his investment in Western Union — the builder of the transcontinental telegraph system between Omaha and Salt Lake City — along with as his mining, banking and livestock interests, Edward dies in late 1874 without a will, leaving his fortune to Mary.
As a memorial to her late husband, Mary bequeaths $100,000 for the purchase of land for buildings that would become Creighton College. On July 1, 1878, the assets are deeded to the first bishop of Omaha, James O’Connor, who asks the Missouri Province of the Society of Jesus for help in staffing the new Catholic school. In the winter of 1880, the college starts a library with books purchased from a Jesuit school in Kentucky that had closed a decade earlier.
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Tuition is free in those early years, and the college’s population of 120 on opening day (September 2, 1878) includes mostly grade school-age students, preparing for a seven-year stretch of, essentially, seventh grade through the first year of traditional college studies. Reading and writing dominate the curriculum, and Jug (short for “judgment under God”) is instituted as a disciplinary consequence.
Fr. Henry L. Sullivan, SJ ‘10
The college chapel – St. John’s Collegiate Church.
The founding members of Creighton College and Bishop James O’Connor of Omaha.
After her death in 1876, Mary leaves significant funds to the college as well. Within the next two years, her sister Sarah, who was by then married to John Creighton, pushes for the development of what would become St. John’s Collegiate Church, dedicated in 1888 (just a few months before her death). She also presses for an addition to the main campus building for the Jesuits. Before he passes in 1907, John makes many gifts to expand the college.
1880s students from youth to college-age.
1920s
By 1922, enrollment is over 400 students, and Latin and physical science are also being studied. Just two years later, Creighton High School is charging tuition of $25 per semester and has 347 students separate from Creighton University. In 1929, the legendary
Henry L. Sullivan, SJ
from the Class of 1910 is named principal of the high school, a position he would hold for the next 29 years.
1878 – 2018
First year students in 1912
A patch highlighting the championship accomplishment of the Omaha McDevitts’ baseball team.
The Creighton Prep headline on the formation of the Mothers’ Club.
A monthly newspaper called The Creighton Prep reports on the many activities and accomplishments of Prepsters during this time, including the semester grade point averages of those making the honor rolls. On November 22, 1933, the formation of the Prep Mothers’ Club makes front page headlines, with the article noting that the first meeting was attended by 120 mothers.
1930s
In 1939 as the prospect of another world war looms, a bright spot is the Omaha No. 1 McDevitts American Legion baseball team of Prep players that wins the national title with a 6-2 victory in Fontenelle Park over a team from Berwyn, Illinois.
After America enters World War II in 1941, yearbook publication ceases until 1945, when the Jay Junior is dedicated to the alumni who “made the supreme sacrifice.” In all, 51 former Prep students die serving their country in WWII, including John Parle ’38 who receives the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. In his Principal’s Report in the 1945 yearbook, Fr. Sullivan notes, “Over a thousand Prepsters of the last fifteen years are serving their country in every branch of the Service.”
Also in his report, Fr. Sullivan mentions the popularity at Prep of dramatics, music, elocution (speech) and debate and a record enrollment of 520 at the start of the school year. On the athletic field in the 1940s, contests between Prep and South are especially popular. In the varsity football team’s 1947 season opener against South, approximately 18,000 fans pack Creighton Stadium to see Prep win, 30-7, the first victory for a team that would go undefeated on the way to a state championship.
The 1939 Omaha No. 1 McDevitts American Legion baseball team.
By the late 1940s, it becomes clear that, with the huge gains in Prep enrollment over the years, an addition to the current building or new construction on another site is needed. Fundraising activities, including card parties held by the Mothers’ Club in the Brandeis building as well as funds saved by Fr. Sullivan, help the cause.
1940s
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Building the campus, facilities and curriculum while staying true to the mission to form men of faith, scholarship, leadership and service
1950s
In 1953, Fr. Sullivan leads efforts to acquire 40 acres of land at the corner of 72nd Street and Western Avenue for approximately $50,000. A capital campaign ensues, and results in raising nearly $1 million. Key to the project’s success are the efforts of Fr. Carl Reinert, SJ, the school president, and in 1958, the new Prep is completed debt-free at a cost of about $1.7 million. To house over 30 Jesuits, a residence is added in 1961.
In athletics, Prep dominates throughout the ‘50s in football and tennis, winning fully half of the state titles available in each sport. Head Football Coach Don Leahy ’47 and his teams go on to win another five before Tom Jaworski ’61 takes over in 1972.
In 1967, Operation Others begins, providing students with a way to help local families with food insecurity at Christmastime. At about that time, the Jay Journal puts more emphasis on student opinion, and surveys students on issues such as a tuition increase and junior-year religion classes that some consider lacking.
In 1971, Prep holds its first dinner-andauction fundraising event called BASH (short for Building a Scholastic Heritage) to help fund scholarships and operating expenses. Between the silent and oral auction portions of the program, attendees are treated to a buffet meal for $9.50 per plate.
1970s
During the decade, the number of families served by Operation Others goes from 150 to 500 as student walk-a-thons along with swimming and basketball marathons are created to raise money for food.
On May 6, 1975, an F4 tornado damages Prep heavily, though the building is repaired by the August start of the next school year. At the same time, soonto-be-legendary Jesuits such as Latin teacher
Charles Kanne, SJ ’13
and theology teachers Mark Niemann, SJ and Bill O’Leary, SJ continue to add to their legacies while Dean of Discipline Dan Laughlin, SJ maintains order among the students.
Fr. Dan Laughlin, SJ
Students working as part of Operation Others.
Construction at the 74th and Western Avenue campus in fall 1958. The buffet dinner line at BASH ‘71.
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1878 – 2018
Prep students in 2018
Student callers for the Endowment II campaign.
The next 35 years are a time of great change at Prep. The Endowment II campaign of the early ‘80s brings in $3.1 million, helped by student callers working from 6-10 p.m. to reach out to Prep constituents. In 1985, a 3,700-squarefoot weight room is constructed east of the Mullen Gym, in part by Brother Mike Wilmot, SJ and other dedicated volunteers. In 1987, Prep is named one of 271 “Exemplary Schools” by the U.S. Department of Education, and two years later, the varsity football team wins its fifth consecutive state title.
1980s
By 1990, Operation Others is feeding over 900 families, and BASH on Ice raises $300,000 to help offset the gap between tuition charged and the cost of educating Prep students. Three years later, the school dedicates the 35,000-square-foot Henry L. Sullivan, SJ Campus Center as a place for Prep students to eat lunch, attend Mass and study. The space is also used for band concerts, dances and events. Room is also added for art, architecture and band classes on a second floor while the main floor houses counseling and campus ministry personnel.
Students in the Heider Center honor the basketball team on Senior Night 2018.
Students at work in the Dr. James B. and Joan C. Peter Science Center.
In 1999, Prep’s commitment to science education and improving standardized test scores in science is made clear with the construction of the Dr. James B. and Joan C. Peter Science Center, with five new and four remodeled classrooms. The school also constructs additional space for administrative offices at the south end of the school and remodels others for classroom use.
In 2003, Fr. Thomas Merkel, SJ begins the longest tenure of any modern day Prep president when he starts the first of his nine years at the school’s helm. During his time in office, Prep raises approximately $37 million for new construction that includes the Heider Center, Jurgensen Park and the Criss Auditorium with tiered seating. Funds for financial aid are also a key focus of the campaign that stretches from 2007 to 2013.
The following year, the Circo Memorial Plaza is added to the west side of the building. School officials later add a healthy lunchtime dining service to a developing health and wellness program. In addition, the Heider Family bestows historic gifts on the school to fund the Loyola Scholars program and half of the Lannon Learning Commons project slated for completion in spring 2020. ■
2018
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ACTIVITIES AND CLUBS Part of a well-rounded college preparatory experience
C
reighton Prep’s mission to form men of faith, scholarship, leadership and service in the Catholic and Jesuit tradition is grounded in a number of core values Dan Kennedy, SJ, Director of including education of the Student Activities whole person and cura personalis. Taken together, they emphasize the importance of a well-rounded college preparatory experience that takes place in the context of caring relationships, including those enabled through the guidance provided by faculty and staff members that help a Prep student discover his interests and talents. Central to the mission and these core values today at Prep is a robust program of 71 activities and clubs that allow students to develop interests and skills that not only help shape who they are but enable in-person connections among them. Connections that may be more important than ever in a culture where they can more easily interact with peers behind a mobile device or computer screen. “I think, too, in a way, by developing those interests, we help people become otherfocused,” said Director of Student Activities Dan Kennedy, SJ, a Toledo native in his second year of regency at Prep. He also teaches Moral Values, serves as a lacrosse coach and is the moderator for Student Council. “In student activities, I think we have more of a mindset that we can be experimental. So we can try something out,” said Dan. “Ideas can come to their fulfillment a lot more quickly in student activities than maybe other areas.” Ideas for new clubs like Prep Cooks, where students learn about cooking through demonstrations in Prep’s kitchens, talk with area alumni in the restaurant business and sample different cuisines. Typically, the idea for a new club or activity comes from an interested student or a small group of interested students who submit an application after they have secured a faculty moderator. Dan then gauges interest among a greater number of students and, if there is significant, additional interest for the proposed club, helps get it launched. Funds to keep the program going come from a number of places including donors, and a Creighton Prep Birdcage app helps students earn points for prizes by checking in from various events. Assisting with managing it all are Madeleine Morelli from the science department and Alumni Volunteer Corps member Dakota Wagner.
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Even with additions to the activities and clubs list, the more established favorites like Student Council, Big Brothers, Harvard Model Congress, Operation Others Club and Stanford Model United Nations still attract a large number of students in a school where more than 90 percent are involved in one or more activity or club. What’s next? “One area I want to try to focus on is diversity inclusion clubs and how those cultures get woven into the Prep experience,” noted Dan. “I also would love to see a place for the performing arts.” “Not every Prep alumnus has enough income to give to Prep but maybe some would like to host a group of students in something that relates to their work or volunteer or donate time. That does immense good for us as do donations, especially for students on significant financial aid so they can afford the total Prep experience.”
Here’s a look at just a few of the many activities and clubs available at Prep today:
ARCHITECTURE CLUB Students compete in two major annual competitions, one at the University of Nebraska Omaha sponsored by the school’s chapter of the Society of American Military Engineers and another by the American Institute of Architects. BEE CLUB The Bee Club introduces students to the world of honey bees as well as traditional and natural ways of keeping bees. The group is planning to install a bee colony on the Creighton Prep campus in the spring of 2019 so they can look after it throughout the year. Additionally, they will engage in educational outreach to help the community better understand the importance of pollinators in our ecosystem.
BLACK STUDENT ALLIANCE This group represents the
PREP ACCEPTS Prep Accepts aims to transform our culture through creating a community of students, faculty and staff where individuals are welcome to be who they are. Prep Accepts also plans for advocacy in meetings during Community Period and outside of school.
CP LIVE Students interested in the live broadcast of sporting
ROBOTICS CLUB This club fields highly competitive teams that participate in area tournaments, leagues and competitions. In March, Prep’s First Robotics Competition (FRC) team received the 2018 Rookie Inspiration Award at the Greater Kansas City Regional.
voice of African-American students. Its activities include the study and discussion of the viewpoints of African and melanoid people in history, economics, education, entertainment, labor, law, politics and religion.
events can join CP Live. During Prep athletic contests, they call play-by-play, provide color commentary, operate a camera and run scores and stats to get valuable experience.
LATINO STUDENT ASSOCIATION The goal of the Latino
Student Association (LSA) is to promote diversity within Prep and the larger community. The LSA is also associated with academic and social issues that affect Latinos.
LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen teaches social etiquette, manners and the way to be respectful to all people. Recently, members helped Loyola Scholars with skills like tying ties that could be useful in high school and beyond. LOUDER THAN A BOMB POETRY CLUB Louder Than a Bomb is a competition poetry club. Students write poetry through the fall and winter then, in the spring, perform their works against other high schools in a “poetry slam” competition.
ROWING CLUB This is a new club at Prep, and members participate with the Omaha Rowing Association and practice on Carter Lake. They also compete in area races such as the Frostbite Regatta in Wichita, Kansas. SPEECH AND DEBATE The speech and debate teams compete on a local, state and regional circuit via a schedule approved by the Nebraska School Activities Association and the National Speech & Debate Association. Prep has a long history of recognized excellence in forensics. ZOOLOGY CLUB The Zoology Club promotes the
MOCK TRIAL Students interested in the field of law who
like to act and enjoy arguing with others are encouraged to join a mock trial team. The season takes place from October through March after school, and spots on the team are limited. The Prep Blue mock trial team has won three consecutive state titles.
NATIONAL ECONOMIC CHALLENGE The Nebraska EconChallenge and National EconChallenge are academic competitions that allow students to demonstrate economic literacy in teams of three or four. Team members meet weekly or biweekly to prepare for state and national competitions.
conservation and captive breeding of animals, focusing on native and exotic reptiles, amphibians and birds. Members learn about the life cycles and care of a variety of animals.
To see a full listing and descriptions of the 71 activities and clubs currently available at Prep, visit CreightonPrep.org/activities today. ■
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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT
VOCAL MUSIC
Where students shine in musical service at Prep and in the larger Omaha community
W
hen Rob Chesire interviewed at Creighton Prep in 2002 for a teaching position in the theology department, he briefly mentioned an interest in music that sparked with principal John Naatz and Steve Monzu ‘92 from Campus Ministry who were looking at how to add live music to liturgies at the school. He didn’t know it then but that spark would eventually create the momentum for Rob’s move from a position teaching courses such as Church History, Scripture and Moral Values to one where he guides very talented Prep vocal musicians to develop their gifts even further. Today, the vocal music program he directs has about 70 students in a range of two-semester courses where they build their skill levels so they can hopefully advance from the introductory Prep choir to, perhaps, the concert choir and, for the exceptionally talented, the chamber choir. The singers are most well-known for the outstanding music they provide at school Masses throughout the year including those for parents and students new to Prep, various classes and houses, the Mother-Son Mass and Breakfast, holy days, the
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Alumni Memorial Mass, the MLK Prayer Service, the FatherSon Mass and Breakfast event, and reconciliation services. Concerts at Christmastime and in the spring are held in the commons, though someday Mr. Chesire would love to feature the young men in a performance hall on Prep’s campus. “When our chamber choir has had the opportunity to perform at the Holland (Performing Arts Center), you can definitely experience a heightened sense of artistry. Performance halls have a way of deepening the bonds within a community and all those who are connected to the experience of performing in a glorified space. Along those lines, I can imagine how amazing it would be to bring back our musically gifted alums who have forged successful music careers and have them share their talents with us once again.” As their reputation for great performances has spread, the opportunities for the singers to live out the program’s mission in musical service have become much more numerous around Omaha. For example, Prep chamber choir members have been chosen to sing at the College World Series on three separate occasions and twice at The International equestrian event.
Choir members perform in a KMTV Christmas special.
They have also been selected a number of times to sing at the Annual Blue Mass for Omaha area first responders and at the Cosmopolitan Club’s Christmas Luncheon for children with special needs. The Omaha Symphony has hosted Prep singers in its Choral Collaborative program for four consecutive years and, in 2017 and 2018, the group sang at the Veterans Shine On event at Memorial Park. The singers have also performed in a 2017 KMTV Christmas special, at Christmas luncheons for Five Points Bank employees and on studio recordings for contemporary church music composer and mentor Gene Klosner ’78. The students have also been recognized for excellence among their peers with Superior ratings in district music competition over five of the past seven years. A few dozen Prep vocalists have received all-state honors, including Joe Elliston, Chris Lin, PJ Mooney and Daniel Noon in 2017. Chris and PJ were named all-state in 2018 as well and were joined in that honor by Nate Kielian.
“I feel like the music we’re offering is something that can help our community pray better and have a more transcendent experience.” — Rob Chesire
said that it is Mr. Chesire’s “compassion and care” that have allowed him to sing at his best and that he is “a great director to work with.” In looking back on the choir program’s development, especially as a force in liturgical music, Rob said, “I feel like the music we’re offering is something that can help our community pray better and have a more transcendent experience. Music ministry remains at the forefront of what we do every year, and it has deepened our own experience of spirituality in the classroom as well.” ■
While Rob is quick to give all the credit to his students and those who have helped the program like Gene Klosner and accompanist Cecilia Jensen, they are equally complimentary of him. Gene has especially enjoyed seeing Prep students with talent as composers and arrangers flourish under Rob’s direction. Cecilia noted, “The foundation he’s establishing for these students is great. The skill to read and understand music on the page is invaluable, and Mr. Chesire is working hard to make sure his students have a solid working knowledge of those skills.” Carl Smith ‘12 mentioned the “big impact” that Rob has had
on his life while PJ commented on his skill in getting a diverse group of people to “sing together and produce great music.” Chris Lin, current vice president of the chamber choir, also
Providing great music at the 2018 Ash Wednesday Mass at Prep.
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Teachers and students take a break from classes at Pagirinya Progressive Secondary School, which serves refugee families near Adjumani, Uganda and the border to South Sudan.
PREP IN UGANDA
Creighton Prep has a long, established connection to the largely Christian country that, if all goes well, may get strengthened even further.
T
he connection between Prep and Uganda started with the work of a Prep alumnus, the Most Reverend Vincent J. McCauley ’24, who was missioned by the Holy Cross Fathers in 1958 to guide the church’s development in western Uganda. He ended up spending more than 20 years of his life serving in Africa and, for those efforts, is now on the path to sainthood. In 1991, his mantle of compassionate service was taken up by Fr. Tony Wach, SJ, a former Prep teacher who began his work in the country doing retreats, spiritual direction and vocational work in and around Kampala, the capital city in the south.
They were also well aware of the more recent focus by Jesuits in the United States and around the world on the refugee crisis, which has seen a total of about 1.5 million refugees from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo cross into Uganda where the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is doing its best to educate the children of those families. “What makes our school different than other Catholic schools is the Society of Jesus,” said Sean recently. “So we want to try, as a school, to reflect the values and the priorities of the Society. That means the Spiritual Exercises, a preferential option for the poor, serving the faith and promoting justice.”
He was also instrumental in the creation of the John Paul II Justice & Peace Centre there then moved in 2009 to help found Ocer Campion Jesuit College, a Jesuit secondary school in the northern city of Gulu, where a long civil war and unspeakable atrocities had ravaged families. Instrumental as well in the school’s founding was Fr. Jim Strzok, SJ who had taught at Prep in the early 2000s.
THE KERNEL OF A NEW IDEA FOR PARTNERSHIP
During recent discussions on how best to put Prep faculty and students in a position to serve more globally, theology teacher Sean Joyce Whipp ‘96 and his departmental colleague Kathy O’Keefe drew on their experience with the Computers for Africa project, a now-ended initiative to refurbish used desktop computers for use in northern Uganda schools.
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Ocer Campion Jesuit College co-founder Fr. Tony Wach, SJ (center) with visiting Prep teachers Kathy O’Keefe and Sean Joyce Whipp at Ocer Campion Jesuit College near Gulu, Uganda.
Ocer Campion students work on a group project for history class on a sunny June afternoon.
Coincidentally last fall, Fr. Wach was visiting Prep, and both Sean and Kathy held preliminary discussions with him on the kernel of a new idea for partnership. “Not an ad hoc thing where we send a couple of mission collections but a relationship with Ocer,” remarked Sean. “I sat down for an hour with him,” noted Kathy. “And I think, for Tony, serving at the margins of society in a place like Ocer is really what Jesuit education is all about.”
Kathy O’Keefe and Fr. Tony Wach, SJ visit with some A-level Ocer Campion students during their afternoon study hall.
then met with Fr. Wach, the teachers and students at Ocer for five days. What they found was a coed Jesuit school — the only With Tony on board, Sean and Kathy approached Dean Jesuit school in the country — with tremendous potential. A of Faculty Formation Jackie Schulte and Head of School place where the child soldiers of the civil war could be educated Jim Bopp in early 2018 to discuss how an exploratory trip and reintroduced to society. A refuge for young girls who could could be made. At about that same time, alumnus Richard look forward to a life beyond the early marriages that happen Burbach ’68 approached Principal Gifts Officer Dede often with the exchange of money or cows between families. Crowley with an offer to fund an immersion experience But resources were few and the facilities, though good for Uganda, were very primitive by American standards. “We observed in a number of classes where we sat in “...we want to try, as a school, to reflect the values and the priorities of the back, we interviewed teachers, and they were very the Society. That means the Spiritual Exercises, a preferential option for curious about how American schools run,” Kathy said. “I think they have a lot to teach us, and we have the poor, serving the faith and promoting justice.“ a lot to teach them. I also think the students so value their education because of the sacrifices that their – Sean Joyce Whipp families are making to send them there.” (Tuition, room and board is approximately $700 per year.) for a faculty member in a place like Africa. After a few After five days, both returned to the states more committed more discussions between all the parties in March, an than ever to see a relationship forged between Ocer and Prep. exploratory trip for both Sean and Kathy was arranged.
THE EXPLORATORY TRIP
Uncertain of what the outcome would be, they flew into Entebbe in late May, an hour outside of Kampala, and slowly made their way north to Ocer with the help of Herbert Busiku, a contact of theirs from Computers for Africa who was thoroughly familiar with Uganda, had visited Prep before and could translate into English from a number of tribal languages. Along the way, they talked briefly with Fr. Kevin White, SJ of the JRS, toured some schools educating refugees in Adjumani
GOING FORWARD
If phase one was Sean and Kathy’s trip, phase two could be a trip for more faculty members of different disciplines at Prep who could bring back new ideas for their curriculum. Then phase three? “We don’t know,” said Sean. “Maybe the way to go is a shared retreat experience.” And from there? “Ideally, we’d set up some kind of month-long exchange program.” If you would like to contribute to the formation of a partnership between Ocer and Prep, please contact the Advancement Office at Advancement@CreightonPrep.org. ■ WINTER 2018/19
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SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS JUNE 4, 2018
The Loyola Scholars Class of 2021 Welcomed to Prep
Creighton Prep welcomed 15 rising sixth graders and their families to the Loyola Scholars Class of 2021. The new scholars joined the rising seventh and eigth grade scholars to reach the program’s capacity of 45. During the Loyola Scholars Summer Institute in June, scholars focused on academics, leadership-building, Ignatian spirituality and fun activities at Prep. Classes included English language arts, science, math and art as well as innovation technology in the ToMorrow Labs. On Friday afternoons, the scholars went on educational field trips, including those to Air Methods at Millard Airport, Creighton University, Dundee Bank, First National Technology Solutions, Gallup, the Immanuel Fontenelle home, Le Bouillon, Lexus of Omaha and Wenninghoff Farms. The Loyola Scholars is a year-round, three-year academic and leadership achievement program serving middle school 6th-to-8th-grade males in the Omaha metro area who are academically talented, have leadership potential and whose households have significant financial need. By nurturing gifts of the mind and spirit, the Loyola Scholars program strives to form young men of faith, scholarship, leadership and service, ready for a college preparatory education. For more information on the Loyola Scholars program, please contact program director Jeni Martinez at JMartinez@CreightonPrep.org.
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PREP NEW
JULY 1, 2018
Creighton Prep Three-Peats as Omaha’s Choice Award Winner The Omaha World-Herald announced that Creighton Prep had once again been voted to a first place finish in the Private High School category of the 2018 Omaha’s Choice Awards contest sponsored by the newspaper. Prep also finished first in the category in 2016 and 2017, the only other years that the contest has been held. Voting took place on nearly 200 categories during a fourweek period from Sunday, March 25 to Sunday, April 22.
JULY 3, 2018
Prep Athletics Recognized with Program and Coach of the Year Awards Creighton Prep announced that the school had been named both the 20172018 Class A NSAA Cup winner of the Boys Division for the ninth time in the past 11 years and the recipient of the Omaha World-Herald All-Sports Award for the sixth straight time. Helping Prep to both awards were state titles in basketball, swimming and baseball as well as other strong showings during the school year. Director of Admissions and Head Basketball Coach Josh Luedtke ’90 was also named this past summer as the Nebraska boys high school coach of the year by the Omaha WorldHerald and the Lincoln Journal Star Boys Coach of the Year. On Saturday, March 10, 2018, Josh coached the varsity basketball team to the Class A state title. It was the team’s 13th state title and third in the past nine years.
JULY 18, 2018
54 Prep Students Named AP Scholars by the College Board The school announced that 54 students had been named AP Scholars by the College Board. Of those, 23 were named AP Scholar (for scoring 3 or higher on three of more of their AP Exams), 15 were named AP Scholar with Honor (for scoring an average of 3.25 or higher on all their AP Exams and 3 or higher on four or more of them), 16 were named AP Scholar with Distinction (for scoring an average of 3.5 or higher on all their AP Exams and 3 or higher on at least five of them), including two who were named National AP Scholar (for scoring an average of 4 or higher on at least eight of them). AP SCHOLARS Samuel Atkins ‘19, Brendan Bentley ‘18, Carson Broz ‘19, Aidan Buechler ‘19, Richard Chapman ‘20, Luke Dickas ‘19, John Doran ‘19, Mitchell Finocchiaro ‘19, Samuel Forrest ‘19, Jeremiah Hudson ‘18, Colin Inda ‘19, Joshua Kramer ‘20, Jaliya Nagahawatte ‘19, Daniel Noon ‘19, Noah Peyton ‘18, Danny Poulos ‘19, Luke Reinsch ‘19, Matthew Rowe ‘19, Seth Sandoval-Skeet ‘18, Jonathan Schroeder ‘19, Kyle Sedlacek ‘18, Daniel Ugarte ‘18 and Bradley Young ‘19. AP SCHOLARS WITH HONOR Jackson Bartak ‘18, Robert Beyer ‘18, Keegan Brown ‘19, Richard Csordas ‘19, Jefei Dong ‘18, Connor Gregg ‘20, Sean Hassett ‘18, Jinyong Hong ‘19, Jason Kwong ‘19, Peter Lenz ‘18, Michael McClellan ‘18, John Mowat ‘18, Jalen Nichols ‘18, Jonathan Quiros ‘18 and Thomas Schatz ‘18. AP SCHOLARS WITH DISTINCTION Stanley Drvol ‘18, Colin Duffy ‘19, Charles Gehringer ‘18, Nathanial George ‘19, Yoobin Ha ‘18, Zachary Kowal ‘19,
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HIGHLIGHTS FROM CAMPUS
FALL HIGHLIGHTS OCTOBER 4, 2018
Colin LaFave ‘18, Christopher Lin ‘19, Joseph McGill ‘18, Ryan McNamara ‘18, Matthew Muellner ‘19, John Nussrallah ‘18, Noah Schalley ‘18, Brett Slezak ‘18, Aidan Weindel ‘18 and Benjamin Wingerter ‘18.
Creighton Prep Receives the New Cassel Distinguished Community Service Award
NATIONAL AP SCHOLARS Matthew Muellner ‘19 and Brett Slezak ‘18.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2018
Eight Seniors Named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists Seniors Samuel Atkins, John Doran, Colin Duffy, Samuel Forrest, Christopher Lin, Matthew Muellner, Daniel Noon and Matthew Rowe were named Semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship competition. This is a prestigious honor awarded to a select number of students across the country in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements. “We are very proud that these eight seniors have been recognized for their efforts to excel academically,” said Head of School Jim Bopp. “Additionally, we are grateful for the wonderful teachers they have here at Prep and those they had before coming to us who helped them along the way. The value of making the most of an excellent education cannot be overstated and we are excited to have such outstanding representatives to applaud and look to as exemplars.” According to the National Merit Scholarship Program site, approximately 1 percent of the 1.6 million students involved in the competition are named Semifinalists. Finalists will be named in February then a smaller group will be announced in the spring as scholarship recipients.
Creighton Prep received the New Cassel Distinguished Community Service Award at the Spirit of St. Francis Dinner sponsored by the New Cassel Foundation. The foundation supports the New Cassel Retirement Center as well as the Franciscan Adult Day Center, which provides care for aging adults with memory loss or other challenges that require them to have support during the day. For the past several years, Prep seniors have served at the Franciscan Adult Day Center as part of their participation in the Pedro Arrupe Experience, a theology course that combines the study of various Christian approaches to discipleship with service work in the Omaha community. “We’re very honored by this recognition,” said Head of School Jim Bopp. “Service is an integral part of the Prep experience, and this award is a tribute to the efforts of Service Coordinator Dave Lawler and his theology department colleagues in building the relationship with New Cassel.”
OCTOBER 6, 2018
Prep Sons and Dads Take Part in Habitat for Humanity Build Approximately 20 Prep students and several dads participated recently in the first build of the school year for the Creighton Prep chapter of Habitat for
Humanity. The build took place at 3311 Emmet Street on Saturday, October 6, the last day of Habitat for Humanity Omaha’s Framing Frenzy. The work performed by the group involved framing basement walls and installing roof trusses. “It was a great day,” noted faculty moderator and Honors Physics teacher Mike Higgins ’75.
OCTOBER 7, 2018
Over 720 Attend Mother-Son Mass and Breakfast Over 720 Prep mothers and sons attended the annual Mother-Son Mass and Breakfast at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha-La Vista Hotel & Conference Center. Creighton Prep President Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ was the presider at Mass, and he was assisted by Fr. Bob Tillman, SJ and Damian Czerniak, SJ. The readers were Matthew Lemar and his mother Martha, and the gifts were presented by Jennifer Buckley and her sons Brendan, Conor and Michael along with Audrey Buckley and her son Joseph. The emcee for the breakfast program was senior Matt Anderson, the student speaker was senior Thomas Corpuz and the parent speaker was Sharon Doran. Mr. Kelly Barth, Mr. Rob Chesire, the Campus Ministry Advisory Board and the Creighton Prep concert choir also helped make the morning a great one. ■
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A Renovated Heider Center Floor The Heider Center floor renovation project began this past summer with sanding the surface using different grains of sandpaper in order to get it very smooth. After that, stain was applied to darken both three-point areas around the free-throw lanes. Graphics for Billy as well as Creighton Prep, AMDG and Jr. Jays were then added along with a coat of PMS 280 (Prep blue) to the baselines and sidelines as well as striping on the two outer courts. After that, covers on the graphics were removed and multiple coats of sealer were applied. ■
Mike McGlade ‘76 addresses the group prior to the reveal of the Ragole Road sign.
Ragole Road Dedication Family members, friends and classmates gathered in August to dedicate the driveway from Western Avenue to the west parking lot as Ragole Road in honor of Tim Ragole ‘76 who passed in 2018. Brief remarks were provided by classmates including Mike McGlade ‘76 then a blessing was provided by Fr. Bob Tillman, SJ. The one-year naming rights were purchased at BASH by Tim’s classmate Bob Carlisle ‘76. ■
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New Billy Bluejay Design A new Billy Bluejay design was introduced with the Wednesday, August 8 completion of the floor renovation project in the Heider Center. The new Billy is represented in a darker shade of blue and in a white CP T-shirt instead of the collared sweater used in the previous design. ■
New Wall Graphics Over the summer, crews worked to post colorful wall graphics with inspirational messages that remind Prep students about the core values and Jesuit principles that provide the foundation for our mission, the characteristics of a Jesuit secondary school student at the time of graduation (also known as “the Grad at Grad”), the meaning of the Creighton Prep seal, quotes from the Beatitudes, the Prayer for Generosity, the Suscipe and more. ■
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SUMMER & FALL
SPORTS SUMMER
BASEBALL FIVE POINTS BANK / AMERICAN LEGION SENIOR TEAM 1
BASEBALL FIVE POINTS BANK / AMERICAN LEGION SENIOR TEAM 2
BASEBALL FIVE POINTS BANK / AMERICAN LEGION FRESHMAN TEAM
Record: 42–17 State Semifinalist
First #6 Seed to Upset a #1 Seed in the Area Tournament Two Players Committed to College Baseball Programs
Record: 23–13 Second at State
CROSS COUNTRY JUNIOR VARSITY TEAM
FOOTBALL VARSITY TEAM
FOOTBALL JUNIOR VARSITY TEAM
Millard South Invitational: 1st Metro Conference: 3rd
Record: 5–5 State Playoffs: First Round
Record: 4–4
FALL
Pictured above: Freshman and sophomore runners.
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FALL
TENNIS VARSITY TEAM
TENNIS JUNIOR VARSITY TEAM
CROSS COUNTRY VARSITY TEAM
Seventh at State State Runner-Up at No. 2 Doubles: Gavin Forster and Danny Kowal
Match Play Record: 10-2
Second at State District A-1: 1st Metro Conference: 1st Pictured above: Junior and senior runners.
FOOTBALL SOPHOMORE TEAM
FOOTBALL FRESHMAN A TEAM
FOOTBALL FRESHMAN B TEAM
Record: 3–5
Record: 6–3
Record: 4–4
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CREIGHTON PREP
SPORTS NIGHT Featuring Lou Holtz
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ver 1,200 attendees packed the Heider Center on Tuesday, October 2 for the 27th annual Creighton Prep Sports Night featuring former Notre Dame national championship football coach Lou Holtz. Coach Holtz delighted the crowd with stories from his past and what he’s learned about life through coaching. Among the many highlights of his 11 seasons at Notre Dame is guiding the 1988 team that included Creighton Prep alumni Mickey Anderson ’86 and Dave Jandric ’86 to an undefeated season, a Fiesta Bowl victory over West Virginia University and the national championship. Prep, Notre Dame and NFL alumnus Junior Bryant ’89 also played for Coach Holtz during his time there. All told, he won more than 75 percent of his games at the school and led the team to nine bowl games. At Sports Night, attendees were welcomed from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. to a social that included dinner and a silent auction, followed at 7 p.m. by an oral auction then a 7:15 p.m. program featuring the 2008 College Football Hall of Fame inductee. Thanks to all the attendees and the more than 80 sponsors who made the night a great success. Special thanks go out as well to Dr. Mike Morrison for his sponsorship of Sports Night and to Quality Brands of Omaha (Tom Zito) and PepsiCo for donating the beverages. ■ Former Notre Dame national championship football coach Lou Holtz (center) with former players Mickey Anderson ‘86 (left) and Junior Bryant ‘89 (right).
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SOPHOMORE
CAREER DAY
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On Tuesday, October 16, 2018, the Student Support Services department and the Advancement Office hosted 17 working professionals from different career fields to speak at Prep during Sophomore Career Day. The event is hosted in the fall semester and then again in the spring for second-year students so they can gain important visibility into the workplace and greater insight into an occupation that interests them. At the same time, it provides a mentoring opportunity for Prep alumni and others invited to speak. “Career day opened my eyes up to the medical field,” said Prep student Andrew Butler. “I was unsure if I really wanted to follow that career, but after talking with Dr. Raynor and listening to him speak and answer our questions, I think it makes my path into the medical field even more enticing.” The medical career discussion also had a very positive impact on speaker Steve Raynor, M.D. ’73. “I really enjoyed the experience in talking with the students,” he said. “They asked great questions and seemed genuinely interested. It was nice to be able to give them some perspective at a time early in their lives when they are starting to plan and look ahead.”
Sophomores listen to Joe Wurtz ‘83 discuss his career in technology.
David Haller ‘80 and Bob Kucera speak to students about aviation.
Speaker David Haller ’80 echoed those sentiments, too. “I had a fantastic time today sharing my profession and passion for aviation with some fine young men at Creighton Prep,” he noted. “Always great to see the amazing work the Prep staff do for the students and the community. No place like Prep!” In addition to all the speakers who attended in person, Hollywood producer Frank Merwald ’68 spoke via videoconference from the Los Angeles area to students interested in careers in the entertainment field. The spring Sophomore Career Day will take place on Friday, March 22, 2019, and those interested in speaking to students that day about their careers can contact Director of Alumni Relations Max Huerter ’09 at 402-548-3851 or MHuerter@ CreightonPrep.org. ■
Frank Merwald ‘68 begins his video call from the Los Angeles area. WINTER 2018/19
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
FR. JOHN FITZGIBBONS, SJ ‘73 He also marveled at how open the Jesuits were to talking— “There were no forbidden subjects.” — and to passing along their knowledge of how to focus, study and pray. “They were role models.” In fact, it was after studying late into the night for a biology exam during his senior year that he realized what he wanted to do with his life. “It was about being a Jesuit and being a physician of the soul,” he recalled. After graduating from Prep, he went on to the novitiate in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Saint Louis University for undergraduate studies then to four advanced degrees and assignments that included teaching positions at Creighton and Marquette University as well as a second tour in St. Paul, this time as Superior and Director of Novices.
I
n looking back on the early years of Fr. John Fitzgibbons, SJ, it is easy to see how centers of Jesuit higher education and the Society of Jesus became the places in which he could most joyfully serve for God’s greater glory.
“Mom and Dad (John F. and Rosemary Brady Fitzgibbons) were both Jesuit-educated at Creighton University,” said Fr. Fitzgibbons. “They had nine kids, and the expectation was always that we would all go to college, and the clear preference was for a Jesuit college.” To prepare for college, of course, the school for him and his brothers Tom ’85 and Jim ‘87 was to be Creighton Prep. “It was not a negotiable reality,” he laughed. Fr. Fitzgibbons initially thought that he would follow his father into a medical career but, once at Prep, his interest in English studies that eventually led him to a Ph.D. in the subject were fostered by his Jesuit teachers. “The English classes taught by the scholastics at Prep were phenomenal. We had guys like John Campbell and Frank Majka ‘63, and this may sound like hyperbole but it’s not: Campbell really taught me how to read literature. I did my Ph.D. in English, and it was John who sparked that interest for in-depth, careful, analytical reading with a purpose.”
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In 2006, Fr. Fitzgibbons took a yearlong sabbatical then worked at the University of San Francisco, where he credits his internship with President Steve Privett, SJ for preparing him for the presidency at Regis University in Denver, which he assumed in 2012. Since then, he has put together a great team of colleagues, grown the endowment significantly and began executing on a strategic plan that will focus the school more intently on experiences around the world for students and on attracting more international students to the Colorado campus. “It’s the best ministry I’ve ever had,” he said. His enthusiasm and stellar work at Regis is also apparent to his coworkers. “Fr. Fitz is leading those of us at Regis to imagine our future, while providing excitement for all the wonderful work that is being done presently,” said Vice President of Enrollment Robert Blust. “A great example of this is our recently approved 25-year campus master plan.” In discussing him recently, his longtime friend and classmate Mike Foley ‘73 said, “He has excelled in building a Christian community wherever he has been, on campus and in the surrounding communities.” In September, Fr. Fitzgibbons attended Reunion Weekend at Prep, where he assisted school president Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ with Mass in the Heider Center. To the Junior Jays of today, he would say, “Let the Jesuits and the lay teachers at Prep teach you how to pray and be close to God. Listen well, too, because God is always communicating, and give your heart to whatever you’re doing.” ■
PREP GATHERIN GS
COAST-TO-COAST A look back at the gatherings held for Prep community members over the past year-plus in Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Reaching out to stay in touch and further engage alumni, past parents and friends in the mission of Prep are key priorities for the Advancement Office.
DENVER
MINNEAPOLIS
Wynkoop Brewing Company
Kieran’s Irish Pub
Approximately 50 alumni and friends of the school attended another gathering in downtown Denver sponsored by the Advancement Office. Those in attendance represented alumni class years from the 1950s to others since 2010. Along with food and beverages, Creighton Prep President Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ provided all with an update on the school.
About 40 friends of Prep, including many alumni, attended in downtown Minneapolis where Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ once again talked about the current happenings at Prep. Vice President of Advancement Rick Berger ‘76, Principal Gifts Officer Dede Crowley, Director of Alumni Relations Max Huerter ‘09 and Director of Annual Funds Taylor Stormberg ’09 also attended.
Mike Otepka ’01 noted that these
Prep events in the Mile High City are “a great way to meet and network with other alumni living in the Denver area.” ■
Ben Lowndes ’05 noted
that the gatherings are “a wonderful way” to learn about developments at Prep, discover ways to support its Jesuit mission and connect with fellow alumni, faculty and staff. ■
Alumni gather at Randolph Tavern in Chicago.
CHICAGO Randolph Tavern
Randolph Tavern was the setting for the Chicago regional gathering. Chicago native, former Prep principal and now Assistant to the President John Naatz joined others on the Prep team in hosting about 60 area friends of the school, including alumni from graduating classes in the 1940s to those in the 2010s. ■
WASHINGTON, D.C. The law office of Gibson Dunn Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ, Rick Berger ‘76 and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Jeff Royal ‘94 ventured to the nation’s capital for the first ever regional gathering for Washington, D.C. area alumni, past parents and friends. The event was hosted at the law office of Gibson Dunn by Joe Warin ‘68. It was attended by 22 alumni, including graduates from the classes of 1946 to 2007. “We want to thank Joe for arranging a fantastic event at Gibson Dunn,” said Rick. “There were great conversations, good networking and we hope to return soon.” ■
Meeting at the law office of Gibson Dunn in Washington, D.C.
Would you or others you know be interested in helping the Advancement Office put together a regional gathering so others can get updated on the school and learn more about staying engaged with Prep? If your answer to this question is “Yes!,” please contact Max Huerter ‘09 at 402-548-3851 or MHuerter@CreightonPrep.org. WINTER 2018/19
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1958
1963
1973
REUNION WEEKEND 2018
1978
1983
1988 1993 1998 2003 2008
The great reunion weekend of 2018 included golf at Benson Golf Course on Friday, September 21 followed by ten class socials in locations ranging from the Blackstone District and Aksarben Village to the home of Mick Jensen ‘73. On Saturday morning, September 22, alumni painted and cleaned up at Deer Hollow Park in South Omaha. Then all were invited to the Prep campus for Preptoberfest that evening. Reunion Weekend 2019 is set for September 20-21 for the alumni classes ending in “4” and “9.” See you there!
Class of ‘78 members stops forAlumni a quickfrom photo. the Class of 1973 enjoying their round on the course.
A foursome on the fairway from the Class of 2003.
Class of ‘78 alumni at Brazen Head Irish Pub.
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CREIGHTON PREP
Chris Foix ‘88, Jeff Dunn ‘88, Zane Hinkel ‘08 and Andrew Fisher ‘08.
The Class of ‘58 at Pasta Amore.
1878-2018
Preptoberfest was fun for all.
Physical Education and Health Department Chair Dan Tietjen (left) celebrates with a group that includes current parents Stan and Kim Bartak (just to his right) and Pat O’Donnell ’80.
Lod Crofoot ‘58 shows his class pride.
Charlie Witt ‘14 shares a table with Bobby Schultz (middle) and Brendan Leppert ‘14 (right).
Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ with former Prep parents Mitch and Colleen Johnson and Anne Krone.
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n Saturday evening, September 22, the Creighton Prep community celebrated 140 years of Jesuit education, Reunion Weekend and the formal kickoff to the 2019 AMDG Annual Fund campaign at Preptoberfest held in the west parking lot of the Prep campus under ideal late summer weather conditions. A 4:30 p.m., Creighton Prep President Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ started the event with Mass in the Heider Center then attendees
moved outdoors to enjoy live music provided by Finest Hour, beverages, and food truck fare courtesy of the Big Green Q, the KGB Gourmet Food Truck and the Rude Shrimp Co. The Jay Mart was even open until 6:30 p.m. for those interested in taking home some Prep gear, and the school sold commemorative Preptoberfest mugs for $25. ■
Preptoberfest 2019 is scheduled for Saturday, September 21 so mark your calendars now! WINTER 2018/19
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Casey Kennelly ’78 was recently appointed to the Salvation Army’s Omaha Advisory Board. He also serves as Vice President and Chief Compliance and Ethics Officer at Mutual of Omaha. Gene Klosner ’78 provides weekly
music in the Omaha area at Sacred Heart Church, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church of Elkhorn. Gene and his sister Cher, who joins him with the choir at St. Patrick’s, frequently work together with Prep’s three choirs.
A number of Prep graduates attended the CUES School System Corporate Kickoff at All Saints School on Wednesday, October 3, including (L-R) Chase Dudzinski ‘11, Tim Kestel ‘05, Jack Warren ‘14, Adam Greiser ‘03, Scott Leighton ‘97, Pat Zach ‘05, Mike Rensch ‘01, Jim Swanson ‘82, Ryan Martin ‘12, John Coffey ‘88, Sam Addy ‘94, Jeff Sauvageau ‘79 and John Haske ‘85.
50s
Congratulations to Phil Polinski ’55 and his wife Sharon who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
John Giandinoto ’59 and his wife Marky of La Vista, Nebraska celebrated 50 years of marriage in August of this year. They have four children – Michael, Steven, Susan and Jacqulyn – plus 16 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
60s Sandy Buda ’63 retired after 33 years of coaching football: four at Prep as as a volunteer dad, 24 in college, and five in a professional league. He has been inducted in the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame, the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame, the University of Nebraska Omaha Athletics Hall of Fame and the Creighton Prep Athletic Hall of Fame.
Kevin Morrissey ’63 and his wife Mary Jo of Centennial,
Colorado celebrated 50 years of marriage in February 2018.
70s Dave Gibbs ’73 is in his first full year of retirement and is
splitting his residency between Plattsmouth, Nebraska and Azle, Texas. He returned to Omaha for the Class of 1973 reunion and saw many of his classmates for the first time in 45 years. Dave sends his thanks to Mick Jensen ’73 and his wife Betty for hosting the Friday night event at their home.
Paul Smith ’76 and his wife Annette received the United Way of the Midland’s 2018 Citizens of the Year Award in recognition for their promotion of the arts and support of youth development in the Omaha area. 26
CREIGHTON PREP
Mike Marcil ’78 received the 2018 NCAA Division 2
Conference Commissioners Association Award of Merit on Wednesday, June 27 in Washington, D.C. This is the highest honor bestowed by the association and recognizes Mike’s outstanding contributions to the membership and student athlete experience in NCAA Division II. Mike’s career in college athletics included time at Creighton University, the NCAA and as the commissioner of two conferences.
80s Don Stormberg ‘87 is the president of Stormberg Construction,
Inc. Started in 2006, Don has over 25 years of experience in home additions, remodels and custom jobs in the Omaha area. Don also sent two boys to Prep, Taylor ‘09 and Cole ‘16.
Jeff Monzu, AIA ’88 works at LEO A DALY in Omaha
and was recently named the recipient of Healthcare Design’s HCD 10 Award in the Architect category. The award annually recognizes professionals involved in 10 categories of healthcare. Jeff has been involved with the design of healthcare facilities for 25 years and was selected to receive the award because of his work with populations of veterans and rural areas in Nebraska. His son Noah is a junior at Prep.
90s
David Ortman ’92 was recently promoted to Managing
Director Corporate Treasury Services, Customer Support at First National Bank of Omaha. David has been with the bank for over three years and served previously as the Senior Manager, Customer Care Center and Director of Customer Care.
Mark Dahir ’93 has been named Chief Operating Officer at the Heart Ministry Center of Omaha, after serving the center for five years in various capacities. Among other tasks, Mark will work on fundraising efforts that will benefit the organization’s food pantry and case management services. Nicholas Hogan ’93 is the CEO and owner of Flagship
Restaurant Group. Based in Omaha, the group has established restaurants in Texas, Colorado, Kansas, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana.
00s
Joseph Bezousek ’97 and his wife Becky celebrated the first birthday of their fourth son, Patrick Ignatius Elias Bezousek, on August 2, 2018.
into their family on October 9, 2018.
Zac Dominguez ’97 is the President/Head of Coaching for
John Beschorner ’03 and his family recently moved to
Dr. Alex Dworak ’98 was selected to the Midlands Business Journal 2018 class of 40 Under 40 Winners. The honor recognizes entrepreneurs and other professionals under the age of 40 in the Greater Omaha, Sarpy County and Council Bluffs areas. Alex practices family medicine in Omaha at One World Community Health Centers, Children’s Hospital and Medical Center, and the University of Nebraska College of Medicine.
Kevin Tracy ’03 recently joined Baird Holm LLP in Omaha where he advises business clients on a wide range of issues. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame where he earned his undergraduate accounting degree, cum laude, in 2007 and his law degree, also cum laude, in 2012. In addition, Kevin is a certified public accountant.
the MWC Wrestling Academy in Papillion, and was named a volunteer coach for the 2018 U.S. National Team of GrecoRoman wrestlers that competed at the world championships in Budapest, Hungary. Zac was a three-time state champion at Prep, wrestled at the University of Nebraska Omaha, and was a three-time University Greco All-American.
Dan McMahon ’98 serves as Chairman of the Board of
Directors for OneWorld Community Health Centers in Omaha. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Texas Christian University and a Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School.
Mike Misterek ’98 resides in Washington, D.C. with his wife Carolyn and two daughters, Elin (3) and Iris (2 months), and is the Director of Political and Advocacy Communications for the National Education Association.
Kevin Van Winkle ‘02 and his wife Liz welcomed Leo James
Los Angeles where he began a new position doing trajectory analysis of various spacecraft and rockets for the Aerospace Corporation. Prior to making the move, John spent ten years in the aerospace industry in Denver, Colorado. He, his wife Debbie and their four children who range in age from two to eight years, thoroughly enjoy all that Los Angeles has to offer.
Shane Stratman ’04 was recently promoted to Business Banking Officer at Security National Bank of Omaha where he joined the credit risk department three years ago. Shane holds a Bachelor of Science in finance from Northwest Missouri State University and has over ten years of experience in banking. John Waters ‘05 recently returned to Omaha and joined Fraser
Stryker PC LLO. Prior to law school at the University of Iowa, John served for five years in the United States Marine Corps.
Parker Mullen ’08 wed Anna Singleton in Denver, Colorado this past summer. Congratulations Parker and Anna!
James Otepka ’98 spent 12 years in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
working in nonprofits and helped establish two charter schools. In 2014, he and his wife Meg moved to Fort Collins, Colorado where they have since added a third child to their family. Today, he is the Technical Services Director at ICC, a local IT consulting firm that serves a variety of businesses in northern Colorado. Jim shares that he had a great time at the recent Class of 1998 reunion catching up with his classmates.
Bryant Ott ’98 resides in Omaha
with his wife, Patrice, and “two future Prep students” James (7) and Conor (3). He works in digital marketing and content strategy at Gallup and enjoyed his recent 20year reunion with the Class of 1998, noting, “I couldn’t have asked for a better weekend.”
Timothy Christian ’99 was chosen to be a member of the
Midlands Business Journal 2018 class of 40 Under 40 Winners. Those selected for this honor are recognized as leading entrepreneurs, executives and professionals under the age of 40 in the Greater Omaha, Sarpy County and Council Bluffs areas. Timothy is the founder and current CEO of Night Fox Entertainment which is based in Omaha with an office in Los Angeles.
10s Will Beerman ’11 is an associate in the law firm of Pansing,
Hogan, Ernst and Bachman LLP. He works in employment law and represents educational and religious organizations. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history in 2015 followed by a Juris Doctor with honors in 2018, both from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Colin Grimes ’11 has been with Spreetail for three years and recently took on a new role as a Finance Initiatives Analyst. Prior to his analyst role, Colin was an Accounts Payable Associate. Jon Hechtner ’12 works for Eze Software in Chicago, Illinois and was recently promoted to an analyst role after two years. Will Hausman ‘14 is currently involved in the Alumni
Volunteer Corps at Prep where he is helping with various tasks but his main focus is on assisting our Cura Personalis program. Thanks Will! ■ WINTER 2018/19
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SUPPORT THE AMDG ANNUAL FUND
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ith Creighton Prep tuition well over $10,000 now and the cost to educate each student at approximately $16,000, the AMDG Annual Fund benefits every student by helping to keep the cost of a Jesuit education as low as possible. Your support of the AMDG Annual Fund is also essential to maintaining initiatives in campus ministry, the arts and sciences, academic programs and the lunch service that help us care for the whole person in mind, body and spirit.
Schools Network across the United States, but we need your help through the AMDG Annual Fund to keep an outstanding four-year experience available to deserving young men. To donate now, visit CreightonPrep.org/ GiveOnline. To discuss a gift or pledge, please contact Director of Annual Funds Taylor Stormberg ’09 at TStormberg@CreightonPrep. org or 402-548-3830. You can also send a check with the enclosed envelope. Thank you for supporting our mission! ■
Prep already has one of lowest tuition rates among the 60 secondary schools in the Jesuit
$5,500 GRANT GIVEN TO EVERY STUDENT
$2.3
MILLION AWARDED IN FINANCIAL AID IN 2017
3rd Lowest TUITION IN THE JESUIT SCHOOLS NETWORK
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
LANNON LEARNING COMMONS
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ork on the newly announced Lannon Learning Commons for student support services is well underway, including fundraising, interior planning and construction. In the winter months of early 2019 after excavation is complete, footings and foundations are scheduled to be poured and steel structures set in place while a mechanical building to house new equipment for chilled water is constructed. Work on the bell tower will happen as well. Tasks such as enclosing the main building, pouring concrete and installing electrical and mechanical systems are planned for next spring and summer with the fall dedicated more to interior finishes. The project is expected to be complete by the end of April 2020.
The Lannon Learning Commons will also feature a commons area where all students can gather to study, socialize or relax. Image courtesy of HBA Architects. CREIGHTON PREP
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If you would like to learn more about the Lannon Learning Commons or to support the project with a gift, please contact Vice President of Advancement Rick Berger ’76 at 402-548-6218 or RBerger@CreightonPrep.org. ■
2018 LOYOLA DINNER of Honor and Distinction October 24, 2018
(L-R) Thomas L. “Tom” Connolly ’56, James T. “Jim” Gross ’68, Dennis P. “Denny” Hogan III ’66, Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ, Ann E. Tjaden, W. Todd Johnson ’84 and Fr. Thomas J. Merkel, SJ
T
he Sword of St. Ignatius Award is given to honor a person who has striven to demonstrate exemplary service for the Greater Glory of God (AMDG). This sword symbolizes the unique spiritual virtues associated with St. Ignatius of Loyola: courage, loyalty and service to the Catholic Church. Fr. Thomas J. Merkel, SJ received the 2018 Sword of St. Ignatius Award. The Ancilla Domini Award is given each year to a woman characterized by her caring, nurturing and unselfish dedication to her faith, family and community. The celebrated life is an example of how to use to the fullest the gifts given to her by God. The 2018 Ancilla Domini Award recipient was Ann E. Tjaden.
The Hall of Fame Award is given each year to individuals who have displayed distinguished service to Prep as teachers, staff, coaches, alumni, parents or friends. The primary consideration is to honor individuals who have provided direct service to the school and who are good examples of living personal lives of faith and service. Thomas L. “Tom” Connolly ’56, James T. “Jim” Gross ’68 and Dennis P. “Denny” Hogan III ’66 were inducted in the 2018 Creighton Prep Hall of Fame. The Alumnus of the Year Award is given each year to an individual who embodies the values Prep aspires to instill in its graduates through a commitment to living a life devoted to serving others. W. Todd Johnson ‘84 was honored as Creighton Prep’s 2018 Alumnus of the Year. ■
Congratulations to the Loyola Dinner of Honor and Distinction Class of 2018! WINTER 2018/19
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PLEASE REMEMBER JUNE 1, 2018 TO OCTOBER 31, 2018
ALUMNI William H. Albert ‘66 Edward M. Atwood ‘43 Ryan Carbon ‘96
James E. Duffy ‘57 brother of Daniel ’60 (deceased)
Patrick H. McDonnell ‘59 son of Hugh ‘24 (deceased), brother of Terrence ‘55 (deceased)
Nicholas J. Fisher ‘13 son of Joseph ‘81, grandson of Joseph ‘56
Fr. Thomas S. McShane, SJ ‘47
Joseph M. Giesler ‘79 brother of James ‘84 Daniel R. Grabow ‘68 father of Matthew ‘09 James D. Hansink ’59 John M. Harding Sr. ‘38 father of John ‘66, David ‘70, Christopher ‘72, Stephen ’73, grandfather of Jesse ‘10, brother of Robert ‘44 (deceased) Robert F. Hassman ‘47 Charles V. Hauptman ‘72 December 30, 1936 - September 20, 2018
Stephen T. Costello ‘54 father of Timothy ‘78, Brian ‘79, Michael ‘79, Mark ‘81, Christopher ‘87, grandfather of Anthony ‘03, Stephen ‘06, Michael ‘11, Daniel ’17, brother of James ‘53. After his playing days at Prep were completed, “Coach Cos” gave many years of service to the football team, first in scouting the opposition for Coach Don Leahy ‘47 and later in coaching the offensive line under Coach Tom Jaworski ‘61, including in the 1980s when Prep won six state titles.
Daniel T. Hawk ‘84 brother of Scott ‘74, Patrick ‘79 Joseph L. Hermanek ‘49 brother of Thomas ‘52 (deceased) Mark A. Herold ‘85 brother of Paul ‘87 Michael J. Horn ‘74 brother of Richard ‘64, Brian ‘75 John J. Kaplan ‘55 father of John ‘79, brother of William ‘56 Anthony C. Lassek ‘57 James E. Lubeley ‘47 brother of Claire ‘48 (deceased), John ‘51, Robert ‘61
Stephen E. Mulcahy ‘79 father of Seamus ‘13, brother of Kevin ‘75, Timothy ‘77 William F. Palais ‘39 father of William ‘74, John ‘76 Joseph G. Piccolo ‘52 James M. Quinn ‘49 brother of Courtney ‘44 (deceased), Robert ‘46 (deceased), John ’47, grandfather of M. Benjamin ‘12 Richard T. Robino ‘85 son of Richard ‘62, grandson of Concetto ‘36 (deceased) Edmund P. Russell Jr. ‘50 father of Edmund ‘75, Patrick ‘78, Michael ‘87, grandfather of Russell Ehlinger ’05, Sean Toohey ‘17 Mark C. Sampson ‘74 brother of Herbert ‘69 Augustus E. Slavik ‘13 brother of Maclean ‘11, grandson of Jerome Lenczowski ‘58 Robert J. Spittler ‘47 father of Judson ‘79, grandfather of Noah Sterba ‘07 George L. Stocking ‘45 (03/30/2018) Fr. Walter J. Stohrer, SJ ‘47 David K. Stull ‘97 brother of Eldon ‘96 Kenneth W. Wessling ‘57 grandfather of John Donahue ‘20, brother of Floyd ‘56 (deceased)
WIVES Elizabeth A. Ancona widow of Samuel ‘40, mother of Tony ‘77, Mark ‘83
Mary E. Hartigan wife of Daniel ‘72
Carolyn J. O’Leary wife of Donald ‘49
Mary Ann Arnone wife of Edward ‘48, mother of Andrew ‘80, grandmother of Anthony Bene ‘18
Marjorie S. Hartnett wife of D. Paul ‘45
Linda K. Olig wife of John ‘64
Patricia R. Kielty wife of Thomas ‘57
Nora A. Stratman widow of Gerald ‘78, mother of Kevin ‘07, Mark ‘09, Paul ‘12
Elizabeth A. Latka wife of William ‘49, mother of William ‘76, Douglas ‘77, Steven ‘79, Jeffrey ‘81, Michael ‘84, James ‘85, grandmother of William “Chip” ‘06, Adam ‘07, Jonathon ‘13, Nathan ‘16
Barbara A. Von Tersch widow of Leo ‘56
Jeanne M. Burns wife of Francis ‘49 Nora K. Carey widow of Charles ‘67 Violet Cunningham Duree widow of Francis Cunningham ‘44
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CREIGHTON PREP
Mary F. Manhart widow of William ‘61, mother of William ‘89, Anthony ‘91
Eleanor Wingender widow of John ’41, mother of James ‘71
FATHERS Eugene J. Barone father of Andrew ‘07
Albert R. Marcil father of Patrick ‘66, Thomas ‘70, brother of John ‘48 (deceased)
Thomas J. Bosiljevac father of Jason ‘88
Robert J. Michelic father of Robert ‘74, grandfather of Alexander ‘04
Clarence J. Bueltel father of Alan ‘75, John ‘82, stepfather of John O’Malley ’74, William O’Malley ‘75, Michael O’Malley ’84, step-grandfather of Robert O’Malley ‘99, Christopher O’Malley ‘01, Shawn O’Malley ‘05, John O’Malley ‘20, Robert O’Malley ‘22
Sebastian Nigro father of Christopher ‘96
Alexander A. Czeranko father of Alex ‘74 Francis W. Dalhoff father of Steven ‘72, David ‘78 J. Daniel Egan father of Vincent ‘67 Neill J. Everitt father of Phillip ‘77, Joseph ‘85, James ‘85, grandfather of Martin Stiles ‘96 Robert S. Griffith father of Thomas ‘76, John ‘78, Paul ‘89, grandfather of Kevin ‘06, Zachary ‘10, Mark Flores ‘18, Nicholas Sudbeck ‘16, Joseph Sudbeck ‘22 Kenneth C. Lampert father of Keith ‘97, grandfather of Paul ‘22
Lynne Bacon
Arthur W. Peterson father of Wayne ‘65 Philip H. Pogge father of John ‘71, James ‘81, grandfather of Philip ‘92, Joseph ‘98, Jonathan ‘13 Herbert C. Rhodes father of Herbert ‘84, Christopher ‘91, grandfather of Aidan ‘22
August 11, 1938 – June 1, 2018
Patrick D. Schramm father of Shane ‘92, Cody ‘07
Patricia Ann (Tobin) Kern mother of Patrick ‘79, John ‘80, Paul ‘82, Timothy ’85
Garry L. Smith father of Derek ‘91 John A. Stefan father of Christopher ‘86, Matthew ‘91, Michael ‘93 Richard L. Storm father of Ryan ‘93 Michael J. Truscott father of Jack ‘20
MOTHERS Cheryl A. Bianco mother of Michael ‘81
Audrey B. Hoch mother of Harry ‘72, Martin ‘74
Georgia L. Centretto mother of Charlie ‘84
Emma M. James mother of C.W. “Jim” ‘69
Dorothy R. Crnkovich mother of A. Daniel ‘68, Paul ‘73, grandmother of Matthew ‘03
Olivia Keating mother of William Hayes ‘89
Dorothy A. Czyz mother of Leo ‘63 (deceased), James ‘67, grandmother of Michael ‘94, Paul ‘03
Delores L. Kirchofer mother of David ‘85, grandmother of Daniel ‘18
Phyllis J. Dewey mother of John ‘65, grandmother of Aaron ‘96
FORMER FACULTY & STAFF
Suzanne R. Mathey mother of Grant ‘78
Adelaide “Corky” Erftmier mother of Donald ‘83, Michael ‘86, grandmother of Donald ‘15
Patricia A. (Cleary) Ramsey mother of Mark ‘78, James ‘85, grandmother of William ‘03, Joseph ‘05, John ‘07, Nicholas ’08, Adam ‘10
Eloise I. Foltz mother of Ronald ‘66
Madonna J. Runco mother of Vincent ‘74
Dorothy B. (Warsocki) Goodman mother of Gregory ‘70, George ‘76
Linda C. Schmitz mother of Travis ‘96, Tony ‘01
Margaret G. Guerra mother of Anthony ‘64, grandmother of William Hayes ‘89
Mildred J. Stover mother of John ‘85, grandmother of Jason ‘93, Joshua ’96
Margaret A. Gulizia mother of Frank ‘73, Alfred ‘75, Gary ‘78 Evelyn A. “Pat” Gunderson mother of R.G. ‘64
Arlene L. Swoboda mother of James ‘75, Thomas ‘76, Lawrence ‘80, Anthony ‘82, grandmother of Matthew ‘15, Nicholas ’15, Andrew Dalton ‘05, Christopher Tierney ‘98
Marjorie R. Hickey mother of Thomas ‘69
Doris J. Vana mother of Michael ‘74, Timothy ‘80, Patrick ‘84
Marilou E. Hillabrand mother of Craig ‘97
Jane Wachter mother of Stephen ‘72, James ‘78
Pat was a tireless worker at Prep for 22 years, serving as a secretary for the alumni and development offices during her tenure. Among her many achievements was her work to make many annual BASH events successful. She was also known for her extensive knowledge of the Prep alumni community and was inducted in the Creighton Prep Hall of Fame in 1997. In an article about her retirement from the school that was published in the summer 1998 issue of the Alumni News, Pat was quoted as saying, “If people needed help, I would do what I could. I wanted people to have a good feeling about Prep.” In recalling her work for Prep, former school president Fr. George Sullivan, SJ ‘62 said, “She was simply an extraordinary person.”
CHILDREN W. Mark Ashford son of John ‘40 (deceased) Joseph D. Caniglia Sr. son of Loretta and Joseph Caniglia ‘49 Julie C. Costello daughter of Janet and Michael Brannen ‘56, sister of John ‘94, Paul ‘96, James ‘01 James W. McCarthy III son of James ‘42 (deceased), brother of Joseph ‘84
To notify Creighton Prep of the passing of a Prep community member, please contact Terri Haller at 402.548.3845 or THaller@CreightonPrep.org.
Patricia A. Zach mother of Terry ‘75, grandmother of Kelly ’03, Patrick ‘05 WINTER 2018/19
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NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA, NE PERMIT NO. 887
7400 Western Avenue Omaha, NE 68114-1878 CreightonPrep.org
BASH is a big undertaking, but with the support of our Prep community members, we come together each year to create a successful event! If you are interested in volunteering in any capacity, donating an auction item, advertising in our catalog and/or being a premier sponsor, please contact Amy Knight at 402-548-3858 or AKnight@CreightonPrep.org.
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CREIGHTON PREP
