Creighton Prep magazine - Winter 2023-2024

WINTER 2023-2024

ACADEMICS WITH RIGOR

The Value of a Prep Education COVER STORY 04

COLLABORATIVE STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES A BRIDGE TO THE FULL PREP EXPERIENCE

NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBERS 7

SERVICE IN THE CURRICULUM 10

FALL SPORTS 16

IN MEMORIAM 26

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE When I speak to freshman classes at Creighton Prep at the beginning of the year, I often begin with this question: “In four years, when you walk across the stage in the Heider Center at graduation, how will you know if we succeeded?”

VOLUME 67 NO. 2 WINTER 2023-2024

Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ

Frequently, the first responses are about academic successes. Success will be measured

by GPA, by college admissions, by scholarship offers. And, true enough, Prep offers tremendous value by these measures. Last year, 74 percent of our students were offered scholarships totalling more than $25.4 million. Even more impressively, a staggering 30 percent of our graduates were offered a full tuition scholarship for their future studies. The class of 2023 matriculated to 65 different colleges and universities in 29 different states.

Colleges and universities clearly recognize that Prep’s rigorous college curriculum makes a difference in our students’ readiness, and higher education institutions are lucky to get them.

Other students mention cocurriculars and sports, and there’s much to be proud of there, too. Our 2022-23 school year produced state championships in track and field, swimming, soccer, mock trial and robotics as well as state and national recognition for our students in the performing and visual arts. The tradition of excellence at Prep provides valuable opportunities for students to discover and grow their God-given gifts and abilities.

Others point to the value of relationships formed at Prep - to brotherhood that for so many creates a deep sense of belonging and forms a web of connections that will last a lifetime.

The worth of those lasting friendships is impossible to overstate.

The value of a Prep experience is all of these, but it’s also something more: these visible successes all point to a deeper value that comes from a young man growing into the person that God made him to be. Our students and graduates are called to lives of purpose.

This year, our school theme borrows from the words of St. Ignatius of Loyola to think about our purpose: Praise. Reverence. Serve. We’ve challenged ourselves to think about how we praise God in our words as well as in the manner in which we live our lives. We reverence God in our worship but also through the care that we show the people around us who are made in God’s image and likeness. We serve God not as a hobby or a side activity but as a central part of an other-centered life.

In this issue of our magazine, you’ll read about so many of the ways a Prep education is valuable, but maybe the most important way is that we help our students become even more fully the person God made them to be. As always, I am deeply grateful for all the ways in which you, our community, are part of this beautiful and holy mission.

AMDG,

P U B L I S H E D BY Creighton Prep 7400 Western Avenue Omaha, NE 68114-1878 (402) 393-1190 CreightonPrep.org President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ MSpotts@CreightonPrep.org Executive Assistant to the President Colleen Kirk CKirk@CreightonPrep.org Assistant to the President for Mission Fr. Nick Albin, SJ NAlbin@CreightonPrep.org Head of School Bill Gotch ‘91 BGotch@CreightonPrep.org Chief Communications Officer Kellie Wostrel, APR KWostrel@CreightonPrep.org Communications Specialist Pat Neary ‘78 PNeary@CreightonPrep.org Chief Financial Officer Alex Zimmerman AZimmerman@CreightonPrep.org Vice President of Advancement Sarah Schmitt SSchmitt@CreightonPrep.org Advancement Coordinator Hannah Pray HPray@CreightonPrep.org Director of Alumni Relations Mike Beacom ‘85 MBeacom@CreightonPrep.org Director of Events Amy Knight AKnight@CreightonPrep.org Principal Gifts Officer Brad Burks ‘00 BBurks@CreightonPrep.org

CREIGHTON PREP

Gift Officer Kevin Van Winkle ‘02 KVanWinkle@CreightonPrep.org

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Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ President Creighton Preparatory School

Advancement Associate Terri Haller THaller@CreightonPrep.org Donor Relations Jennifer Jones JJones@CreightonPrep.org

04 COVER STORY

The Value of a Prep Education

IN THIS ISSUE Value of a 04 The Prep Education

Learning the Gospel 10 Through Solidarity

How the Creighton Prep experience keeps getting better New Leadership Team 07 Members Meet Assistant to the President for Mission Fr. Nick Albin, SJ and Vice President of Advancement Sarah Schmitt

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The AMDG Fund: Forming Freshmen, What Do 15 Men 22 You for Others Think So Far?

The power of Catholic Social Teaching classes Operation Others Gears Up 12 Join us for Delivery Day on Saturday, December 16 Weekend 13 AtoReunion Remember Alumni classes ending in “3” and “8” reconnect and celebrate

Profiles in Generosity Mary Joy Anderson and Mike Jackson ‘50

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Sports Night with Lee Trevino A golf legend tells his story to a packed Heider Center

Please help us with a meaningful gift in this season of giving

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Fall Sports The latest achievements for Prep cross country, football and tennis

Prep News 18 Highlights from campus

First impressions of Prep from the class of 2027 Loyola Dinner of 24 The Honor & Distinction Honoring five outstanding members of the Prep community BASH 2024 25 Plan now to attend on Saturday, April 20

Updates 20 Alumni Here & There

In Memoriam 26 Please Remember

MARK YOUR CALENDAR CHECK CREIGHTONPREP.ORG/EVENTS FOR UPDATES.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2023 Operation Others Delivery Day Creighton Prep SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2023 Christmas in the Cage The Heider Center at Creighton Prep SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2023 Advent Family Mass The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep

MONDAY, MARCH 4, 2024 Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024 6th and 7th Grade Pre-Entrance Exam Visit CreightonPrep.org/Apply to learn more.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 2024 BASH 2024 The Heider Center at Creighton Prep

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2024 CP Trivia Night The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2024 Mom Prom Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center

SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2024 Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2024 and Jubilarian Reunion for the Class of 1974 The Heider Center at Creighton Prep JUNE 21-22, 2024 Reunion Weekend 2024 for alumni from class years ending in 4 and 9 Creighton Prep

WINTER 2023-2024

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13, 2024 8th Grade Scholarship & Entrance Exam Register at CreightonPrep.org/Apply

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2024 Father-Son Mass and Breakfast Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center

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COVER STORY

THE VALUE OF A PREP EDUCATION

— 2010 —

61%

— 2023 —

74% Percentage of senior class receiving at least one scholarship offer

Statistics like 30 percent of a graduating class

being offered at least one full ride scholarship and 74 percent receiving at least one scholarship offer are impressive by themselves.

But the story behind the value of a Prep education is even more fascinating. It's a combination of high quality academics and exceptional support that helps our students be successful in those endeavors as they plan their next step in life.

ACADEMICS WITH RIGOR

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cademic Principal Joe Ryberg ‘84 says “rigor” is one of the main reasons that the Prep students of today are progressing at such a rewarding level. And he means it in two complementary ways. “Certainly, the challenge of our courses remains and needs to remain,” he noted. “But I also think there is a lot more daily academic support for helping kids achieve their goals, which really contributes to it.”

One example that Joe pointed to was the Student Success Hour.

It’s time after school in various classrooms where any student — whether required to be there because of grades or not — can find help from a teacher in virtually any subject.

For the required students, there’s also a three-visit protocol and communication with parents on what their sons are learning to help improve classroom performance.

Joe also highlighted the progress toward more common assessments across subject areas, a greater attentiveness to students who learn in different ways and the responses in the curriculum to a more diverse student population that mirrors very closely the makeup of Omaha.

CREIGHTON PREP

“It’s a diverse community, so our curriculum has to account for those perspectives,” he said. “Courses such as African American History, AP African American Studies and Native American History are important perspectives, but it is just as important that cultural competency is represented throughout the curriculum.”

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When asked his opinion on why a Prep education is so valuable, especially from an academic perspective, Joe mentioned the emphasis that Jesuit education places on critical thinking.

“I THINK PREP’S THE EASY CHOICE.”

When Prep alumnus and Georgetown University student Stephen Trainer ‘22 was asked about the value of his Prep education, his answers centered on the Jesuit identity of the school, the extracurriculars that taught him leadership and responsibility, the AP classes that challenged him, the brotherhood and culture, and the support he received from “great teachers, great counselors and great parents.”

“I was involved in retreat services, theology classes, and I remember the conversations that I had with Jesuits,” Stephen said. “I really found an outlet to explore spirituality, and I’ve kept that while at Georgetown.” He also found that his time in AP classes was especially good preparation for where he is now, academically. “You’re tested intellectually as you would be in a college classroom through in-depth argument or Socratic-style learning. It’s those kinds of experiences that teach you how to be an active learner, and that’s been a big help in college.”

For a parent who wants their son to become the most well-rounded student they could be, Stephen said, “I think Prep’s the easy choice.”

“To be able to really sit, look and think through both sides of an issue: the side of an argument you agree with and the side that you do not. It’s getting students to a point where they can say, ‘I’m taking this position because I’ve considered these arguments, and my conclusion is this is the best argument at this time.’”

Though a rapidly changing world and workforce make it a challenge to predict far into the future exactly what steps will be taken to keep Prep academics on the leading edge, Joe is

confident that the yardstick for measuring student success will still be the same. “Can they look at the world and think critically? That’s why a Jesuit education is so important.

Because if they can do that, they’ll be able to respond to whatever comes their way, in school or their careers.”

— 2010 —

34

— 2023 —

73

Seniors receiving one or more full tuition scholarship offers

COLLABORATIVE STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

T

he value of a Prep education can also be found in the strength of support available to students beyond the classroom.

Though only in her second year at Prep, Director of College Counseling Stacey Evert brings nearly 20 years of experience to her role at the school. “What attracted me to this position is Prep’s commitment to the Student Support Services office,” she said. “The fact that we have 11-plus people here, supporting students in a very holistic way. Supporting them academically, socially, emotionally and really helping them navigate high school and determine postsecondary plans.”

She’s also quick to point out her belief that the structure, resources and collaborative approach that Prep brings to Student Support Services is unique and “really fantastic.”

That approach includes a school counselor who walks each student through their four-year experience at Prep and works closely with Stacey to enhance the college exploration and application process.

Since all the Student Support Services personnel work in the same area of the building, touchpoint conversations on the needs of individual students can happen easily between colleagues such as Stacey, the five guidance counselors, Mental Health Therapist Kevin Kaminski, Br. Pat Douglas, SJ ‘94 , the director of the new nontuition assistance program, and the Assistant Principal for Student Support Services Chris Searl ‘83. They also talk through how best to support various students at their weekly department meetings.

In addition, the team makes sure that freshmen are toured through their offices in the first few weeks of a new school year and that signs are posted, telling them what each person does. “Because they may not have a reason to seek us out in the first week or two, but they will at some point,” added Stacey.

WINTER 2023-2024

Stacey noted, “The school counselors meet in small groups with students over their four years to provide curriculum and programming, ranging anywhere from the transition to high school to academic guidance, goal setting, résumé building and college exploration. Then during junior and senior years, I provide another layer of programming and support.”

She also prides herself on helping students who don’t think college is financially possible for them and showing them that it can be through, for example, tuition help from The Nebraska Promise program if a family’s annual income is $65,000 or below and full-tuition scholarships offered by the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation. (Last year, Prep had 17 seniors who were selected as Buffett Scholars.) “And those two things are stackable,” remarked Stacey. “So they provide access for students to be able to finance their college education.”

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— 2023 —

— 2013 —

COVER STORY

$19.9

MILLION

$25.4

MILLION Senior class scholarship dollars offered

A BRIDGE TO THE FULL PREP EXPERIENCE “WE COULDN’T BE HAPPIER WITH OUR DECISION …”

Des Moines, Iowa natives Kate and Ryan Sewell didn’t know much about Prep except for its excellent reputation, so they signed up for a tour when looking at high schools for their son Tommy Sewell ‘25, and they were impressed.

“Thus, Tommy agreed to give Prep a try for at least a year,” said Kate. “Here we are three years later, and he hasn’t looked back.”

P

rep students get academics with rigor and incredible counseling support through a network of great people in Student Support Services. But what about the additional expenses that can give students in need access to the full Prep experience enjoyed by their classmates? Things like clean clothes, food, even headphones that are required for classwork that includes audio content? Enter the non-tuition assistance program.

“Just since August with the clothes closet alone, we’ve distributed close to 1,500 pieces of clothing to over 150 families,” said Chris Searl about the new venture directed by Br. Douglas. “About once a quarter, we have The Pancake Man come to the Sullivan Center before school to make pancakes for the students. It costs $5. So we provide assistance for that, and we have students who would like to go to Freshman Homecoming, but they can’t afford the ticket.

Or they have a strong desire to go on one of our service immersion trips, but it’s too expensive for them. So we help there, too.”

Kate mentioned that Tommy frequently thanks her and Ryan for sending him to Prep because “he enjoys going to school, being part of the Creighton Prep swim team and feels he will be well prepared for college in the future.”

CREIGHTON PREP

She also noted, “Our family is not Catholic, yet we’ve found the Jesuit education at Prep to align with our values. We particularly appreciate how service to those less fortunate is embedded within the Prep educational experience.”

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Their son Luke Sewell ‘27 is at Prep now, too. “We couldn’t be happier with our decision to send our sons here. We are confident that when Tommy and Luke graduate from Prep, they will be young men with integrity and compassion who are well prepared for college and beyond.”

Also starting up as part of the program: a food pantry, in partnership with Operation Others. Chris added, “I think we’re going to see it gain even more traction as we get closer to the holidays and we have longer, extended breaks. For families facing food insecurities, that’s the most difficult time for them.”

CREIGHTON PREP WELCOMES TWO NEW MEMBERS TO THE LEADERSHIP TEAM

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r. Nick Albin, SJ joined Creighton Prep in August as the Assistant to the President for Mission. In his new role, Fr. Albin helps with special projects from the president’s office and Ignatian formation for new employees. He is currently pursuing a graduate degree at Creighton University in educational leadership and Ignatian spirituality.

Fr. Albin first met the Jesuits during his undergraduate studies at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

During his junior year, he took a philosophy course that was taught by Fr. Cyril Whitaker, SJ. When Fr. Albin turned in a paper on the famous philosopher René Fr. Nick Albin, SJ Descartes, his teacher replied, “Hey, thanks Nick for the paper. By the way, have you ever thought about joining us in the Jesuits?”

Fr. Albin started his journey as a Jesuit by joining the Society of Jesus on August 25, 2012. Since that time, his travels have taken him across the United States and around the world.

He has completed a pilgrimage to Philadelphia, studied philosophy at Loyola Chicago (where he also took improv classes at The Second City), served as a deacon at St. Leonard of Port Maurice Parish in Boston, led high school students to France, Italy and Spain in an Ignatian immersion trip, and taught theology and algebra at Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. He was ordained in Milwaukee this past June. Fr. Albin said he is enjoying the Jesuit community at Creighton Prep.

higher education. Sarah served in various capacities on the University Relations team, cultivating internal University partnerships and external community relationships to advance donor stewardship, transformational gifts and capital projects.

Sarah says that philanthropy has always been a passion, and that it’s an opportunity to meet people where they are and learn what matters most to them.

“What started as a campus job in undergrad turned into a full-time position and led me to my vocation,” said Sarah. “The more I started Ms. Sarah Schmitt working directly with alumni and building relationships, learning about their experiences and how the institution had impacted their lives, the more I realized how pivotal the education and campus experience was to them.”

Sarah brought with her a strategic vision and dedicated commitment to Creighton Prep’s mission of making Jesuit education accessible and affordable to students. Her goal is to facilitate Creighton Prep President Fr. Spotts’ vision for the school and help strengthen the tradition of excellence.

“Through philanthropy, how can we make Prep possible and the dreams of our students a reality? I’m looking forward to working with the Creighton Prep community to help create the impact they want to have through their giving and the legacies that they want to leave behind,” she said.

“Ultimately, giving is so personal to people, and it matters,” she remarked. “It matters to our students, and it matters to our students’ families. When we engage with donors in meaningful ways, we are changing lives.”

M

Sarah is married to her husband Mark Rathouz and has two girls, Marian (eight years old) and Lydia (five years old). They attend St. John’s Church on Creighton University’s campus.

s. Sarah Schmitt joined Creighton Prep in August as the Vice President of Advancement. Previously, she was at Creighton University, where she acquired more than 15 years of development experience in Jesuit

WINTER 2023-2024

“In my own journey, where I feel God is calling me, is to be a good Jesuit priest,” he noted. “I continue to pray for this community each day, and I just appreciate the warmth and the hospitality that everyone continues to share with me during my time here.”

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PROFILE IN GENEROSITY MARY JOY ANDERSON

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CREIGHTON PREP

n speaking recently about his mother, Mary Joy Anderson, who passed in late July, it was clear to son Mickey Anderson ‘86 just how exceptional she was, especially when it came to caring for him and his sisters Lisa and Angie, her grandchildren and those in the Omaha area in need.

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She always had a heart for children, and particularly children who didn’t have the things she provided her kids.

“One thing I’ve really come to appreciate about her is how much she prioritized her role as a mother. That was her vocation,” he said. “She made sure that she was there for her kids and supportive of us in every phase of life, and by extension, supportive of whatever we were involved with.” At Prep, that meant serving in the Prep Moms organization, working on BASH, helping her friend, Fr. Charlie Mullen, SJ ‘30† with various tasks at the school and, more recently, supporting the activities of her Prep grandsons: Asher Anderson ‘23, Talton Quinn ‘23, Isaiah Anderson ‘24 , Peter Quinn ‘24 and Noah Anderson ‘26.

Mickey added, “She always had a heart for children, and particularly children who didn’t have the things she provided her kids.” With that in

mind, Prep was honored to learn that Mary Joy remembered the institution in her estate with a generous gift to endowed scholarships. Her legacy gift to Creighton Prep will make the dream of a Prep education more accessible to young men from all over Omaha.

“Her mother was a poor Irish immigrant who recognized that education allowed young people to really realize their full potential,” noted Mickey. “So that was fundamental to her upbringing.” Also helping shape her perspective on the power of education was that of her husband Talton Anderson, who credited the University of Nebraska Omaha for the success he had in life.

When asked about his thoughts on his mother’s bequest, Mickey said, “I know her hope would be that it would just allow Prep to continue to deliver on its fundamental mission of spiritual formation, character formation, developing Men for Others and providing a great academic background for the kids who are lucky enough to attend. And that it be accessible to all, regardless of background.”

PROFILE IN GENEROSITY MIKE JACKSON '50

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hen nephew Tim Jackson ‘81 and great-nephews Chris Kestel ‘03 and Tim Kestel ‘05 gathered recently to discuss their uncle and great-uncle Mike Jackson ‘50 † (who died in April of this year), the respect for him in their voices was palpable. So was the recognition of how fitting it was for Mike to have directed a portion of his estate to Prep to be used to purchase new, state-of-the-art video scoreboards for the Heider Center.

“It all goes back to the days of the old Prep and their proximity to it,” said Tim Jackson, referencing the building that was co-located with Creighton University and the neighborhood southwest of it near St. Peter Catholic Church where Ralph and Irene Jackson were raising Mike, his sister Pat and their brothers John “Jack” Jackson ‘54 † and Larry Jackson ‘59 †.

Tim also remarked, ”I don’t know if my grandfather even finished high school, but he and my grandmother wanted a better education for their children, and that was going to include Prep for the boys.”

Ralph even built a full-size basketball court in the backyard of their home to accommodate the family’s interest in sports. Soon, some of the Prep juniors and seniors who knew Pat were visiting and playing basketball with the younger Jackson men.

The guys also talked at length about Mike’s love for sports and that he attended Prep football and basketball games for decades. “He would always be at Prep football games on Friday night,” said Tim. “Even a couple of years before his death, you’d probably see him at the 50-yard line up top.”

Mike’s strong faith also guided him well, including his service to people with special needs through the Eastern Nebraska Human Services Agency and his coordination of liturgies and lunches for his Prep classmates.

“Everything about the way Mike lived his life was impressive,” said Director of Alumni Relations Mike Beacom ‘85. “His lifetime is a testimony to what Creighton Prep missions its alumni to do: lead lives of integrity, honor and as Men for Others. He will be missed, but Prep and the world are better places because of him.”

WINTER 2023-2024

His lifetime is a testimony to what Creighton Prep missions its alumni to do: lead lives of integrity, honor and as Men for Others. He will be missed, but Prep and the world are better places because of him.

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Creighton Prep junior Josh Franco helps students during library time at Holy Name School

Learning the Gospel through Solidarity -

Catholic Social Teaching at Creighton Prep

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CREIGHTON PREP

here’s a quote that can be found in one of the hallways at Creighton Prep by former Superior General of the Society of Jesus Peter-Hans Kolvenbach, SJ. It reads, “We must, therefore, raise our Jesuit educational standard to educate the whole person of solidarity for the real world.

Solidarity is learned through contact rather than through concepts … When the heart is touched by direct experience, the mind may be challenged to change.”

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A group of students from Creighton Prep deploy into the Omaha community almost every day of the week to serve others. It’s part of Catholic Social Teaching (CST), which is an elective that is available to upperclassmen. Juniors can choose between CST or CST+, which provides them the opportunity to serve as mentors at different schools across the city. Seniors have the option to take a service class called The Arrupe Experience and volunteer at different service organizations around Omaha — from assisted living facilities to food

pantries, among many others. All of these courses help satisfy the requirement of 30 total service hours for juniors and seniors.

Dave Lawler ‘95, Director of Campus Ministry and theology

teacher at Creighton Prep, says that there are approximately 30 different service sites around Omaha where students go to volunteer and that it’s one of the best experiences Prep provides its students.

“There is a tremendous amount of learning that takes place through the experiences that they

Creighton Prep students Paddy Keenan and Mirin Wieser from last year’s CST+ class serve as mentors at Jesuit Academy. Nearly every day, students go out into the Omaha community to serve others.

have,” said Dave. “I think giving them the chance to step outside of their comfort zone and to build relationships with people who they may not normally come into contact with is an extraordinary way for them to learn and to foster a sense of solidarity with others.”

In addition to providing opportunities for students to serve others in the community, Catholic Social Teaching classes also provide traditional classroom content focused on theology and learning comprehension. Where both CST+ and The Arrupe Experience have time allotted within the school day to travel to service sites, CST focuses on in-class instruction and allows students to volunteer on their own, whether that be during the summer months or around sports season or work hours.

Kathy O’Keefe, a theology teacher at Creighton Prep who has taught both CST and CST+, says it’s rewarding when she witnesses students excel beyond the classroom because they realize that their service matters to others.

“There are different ways of being intelligent, and some of our students really shine in service and volunteering settings where traditional academics may not be their strongest suit,” said Kathy. “At the end of the class, we have our students write a paper to reflect on their experiences and give advice to someone coming in after them. They have to write about a way they experienced God or things that have touched them, and it’s beautiful. I say often to my students that if you’ve been touched by this experience, you may want to seriously consider continuing that service to others in the future.”

Service-learning curriculum has been around Creighton Prep for many years. Alumni may remember the class called The Awareness Workshop, which was based on Catholic social Prep seniors volunteer at The Furniture Project led by Drew Gerken '97 (center). L to R: Gordon Tang, Aiden Kroll, Dillon Claussen, Myles Jackson and Jeff Peprah.

teaching and service to others. Though Awareness Workshop is no longer in Prep’s curriculum, it was that class that inspired the framework of both CST+ and The Arrupe Experience.

“What we’re doing in class is learning how we live out the gospel in society today,” said Dave. “I think for me, the church’s teaching is just a beautiful thing, and it’s very countercultural. It provides guidance. It provides us with a pathway, and I’m grateful to be able to explore that with the students. It’s gratifying as a teacher when you hear a parent say that their son was talking about CST at home or when you visit a particular job site where students are having a great experience. It brings me hope.”

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“It’s where the rubber meets the road of faith,” added Kathy.

“It’s one thing to believe or state something, but how we treat each other is everything. You don’t even have to look at modern documents. Go back to the Old Testament, go back to the prophets. Look at Jesus’ words, Matthew 25, on how we treat each other, especially those who are struggling — the widow, the orphan, the stranger. That is the test of faith.”

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Here’s yourback. chance to give students

dedicated Suppor t these , 2023 during the 16 r on Decembe ent at Creighton Prep deliver y day eva.m. to 2 p.m. from 9 nce king a dif fere Join us in ma y season! this holida

OPERATION OTHERS Gears Up for Delivery Day Operation Others has a rich history dating back to 1967 when a Jesuit priest and a group of kids embarked on a hunting expedition before Christmas. They caught more turkeys than they could eat, which created the idea of donating turkeys to families facing food insecurity in Nebraska and Iowa. Over the years, the event has evolved but has stayed true to its roots of helping those in need during the holiday season.

CREIGHTON PREP

This year, a core team of 45 students and volunteers from all of the Omaha Catholic high schools will work together to collect, organize and deliver food and non-perishable items. Faculty advisor Jerry Kinney ‘95 said, “The generosity and support exhibited by each Catholic school in their initiatives mirror the Catholic Jesuit mission.”

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On Delivery Day, which is December 16, volunteers will drive to Creighton Prep to have their vehicles loaded up with bags of food and non-perishable items so they can drop them off to homes and donation sites around Omaha. An estimated 1,200 to 1,300 families will be provided with enough food for two weeks of meals.

For Creighton Prep senior Mark Bausch ‘24, Call-In Day is a favorite part of his Operation Others experience.

“Participants are filled with a profound sense of gratitude,” said Mark. “The human connections formed during the calls are genuinely heartwarming.”

The centerpiece of Operation Others is the annual Turkey Drive, where alumni and local supporters pool their resources to purchase turkeys for families. “The generosity of not only individuals but of companies around town year after year is extraordinary,” said Jerry. “This initiative goes beyond just turkeys, as the community donates refrigeration and logistics support, making it possible to distribute these perishable goods.”

As Delivery Day draws near, Operation Others stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, hard work and the enduring spirit of giving. “Being a part of Operation Others has not only helped me develop as a leader, but has also taught me the power of teamwork,” said Jack Goltl ‘24, a senior core team member. “The most remarkable things happen when we come together.”

Golfers from the class of 2018: Sean Philbin, Spencer Moes, Cam Kozol, Matt Fritton, Jett Pittenger, Andrew Hoover, Joel Riha-Aldrich and Grant Matthies.

The class of 1978 takes time away from conversation on Friday, October 6 for a group photo at Cunningham's Pub & Grill.

Members of the class of 1983 meet at Jams Old Market for dinner on Saturday, October 7.

REUNION WEEKEND RECAP

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nother super reunion weekend is in the books! Alumni enjoyed being together from October 6-8 to renew friendships, share memories and give witness to what it means to be part of the Creighton Prep brotherhood and live as Men for Others.

with all the updates and spaces added over the years. “I was blown away by the place that I walked into,” remarked Rob Pearson ‘98. Alumni also agreed that the tradition and benefit of a Prep education continue to make as much of a difference today as it did for those of earlier generations.

For some, Friday began on the golf course. An unusually chilly and breezy day was warmed by the camaraderie and good humor among classmates and fellow Prep grads.

On Sunday, the liturgy in the Skinner Chapel that was celebrated by Creighton Prep President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ provided time for reflection and gratitude. That was followed by fellowship at a continental breakfast. In recalling the weekend with his classmates, Jeff Williams ‘83 said, “I feel very honored to have graduated with such an esteemed group of individuals!”

Many spent Friday night at class parties, talking about “all things Prep” and solving the world’s problems. Celebrating at local pubs also allowed guests to enjoy the Nebraska vs.

Illinois football game and a Husker win. With plenty to cheer for and talk about, smiles and laughter were everywhere. “Day 1 was a blast!,” noted Spencer Moes ‘18 in a sentiment likely shared by many others.

On Saturday, alumni and their guests toured the school, guided by Prep seniors. Fond memories of how the building used to be were mixed with wonder at how great it looks now

Members of the class of 1963 gather for a photo in the Lannon Learning Commons to celebrate their 60th reunion.

SAVE THE DAT

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JUN E 2 1-22, 2 024 Reunion w for 4's aneekend d 9 's!

Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ welcomes everyone to Mass, where concelebrants included Fr. John Montag, SJ ‘78 (left) and Assistant to the President for Mission Fr. Nick Albin, SJ (right).

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The class of 2013’s Alex Prusa, Patrick Fisher, Cameron Troshynski, Garrett Bradley, Tyler Moravec and Ryan Pritchard prepare for a tour of Prep.

Yes, the 3’s and 8’s can take a bow for making Reunion Weekend 2023 exceptional. In 2024, the celebration continues June 21-22 when the alumni classes ending in 4 and 9 gather en masse!

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SPORTS NIGHT WITH

LEE TREVINO

An energetic discussion with one of the all-time greats in the world of golf.

of the bag and hold it up. Not even God could hit one iron.”

In recalling the story of the strike at Sports Night, Lee added: “The Lord gave me a lot of talent, and you don’t want to mess with the Lord.”

CREIGHTON PREP

Interviewer Troy Martin and Lee Trevino share a laugh on stage at Sports Night.

14

He also said that he refined his game by studying the swing of the renowned Ben Hogan and that he still goes to the golf course every day at age 83, hitting with every club in his bag.

ee Trevino, a golf legend with an unorthodox swing, remarkable resilience, an impressive record of three major championships and scores of other PGA Tour wins, was the featured speaker for more than 1,000 attendees at the 31st annual Creighton Prep Sports Night on Monday, September 11.

L

In addition, Lee was moved by the outpouring of support from the Prep community that recognized the importance of making Catholic education and sports accessible to young men.

He even chatted at length with members of the Prep golf team prior to taking the stage. “Mr. Trevino was very gracious with his time, and the team loved talking to him,” said Head Golf Coach Matt Rasgorshek.

The event is a pivotal fundraiser for the school’s athletic department, and this year it celebrated Lee’s lasting impact on the game of golf and highlighted his role as an inspirational figure for generations of golf enthusiasts.

This year, more than $60,000 was raised at Sports Night for Prep Athletics. These funds are being put to immediate use for additional weight room equipment, allowing more teams to use the space simultaneously.

Among the thoughts Lee shared with the Sports Night audience was that golf always came easy to him and that it is “a game for anyone willing to put in the effort.” He also told one of the most iconic stories associated with his playing career when he discussed being struck by lightning on the 13th hole of a round played on Friday the 13th.

Remarkably, just a week before the lightning strike, Lee had humorously said, “If lightning starts, I’ll take my one iron out

A group at Sports Night enjoys the social before Lee takes the stage.

FAITH SCHOLARSHIP LEADERSHIP SERVICE

FORMING MEN FOR OTHERS WE SEE OUR STUDENTS GROWING AS MEN FOR OTHERS EVERY DAY. MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY:

CREIGHTONPREP.ORG/GIVE ALL THE WAYS YOUR GIFT MAKES A DIFFERENCE: Tuition for one student

$14,250 ($1,188/month)

Cover the gap

$6,100 ($508/month)

Cost of lunch per student for one year

$1100 ($92/month)

Bus program for one year

$500 ($42/month)

Student retreat

$400 ($33/month) $150 ($12.50/month)

Gifts to the AMDG Fund elevate the excellence of Creighton Prep’s educational formation. They serve as a crucial bridge, covering the disparity between tuition fees and the true cost of providing a Prep education to these young men. Your support enhances accessibility to Prep for both the students and their families.

Please help us form Men for Others with a meaningful gift in this season of giving. It’s an investment in their Prep experience and their promising futures.

US H E LP OU R H REAC MBER DECE GOAL H M ATC 00,000!

2 $ OF

WINTER 2023-2024

Electronic textbook and technology fee

P

rogress in faith shines through in their engagement with Masses and retreats. Their enthusiasm for academics reflects in growing expertise as scholars. As they guide others in clubs and activities, they develop as leaders. When they help society’s most vulnerable, they live our mission to serve others.

15

SPORTS RECAP

FALL SPORTS Photo courtesy of Mac Johnson ‘24

VARSITY 1ST // AUGUSTANA TWILIGHT MEET 1ST //METRO CONFERENCE MEET 1ST //DISTRICT A-1 MEET 1ST // STATE MEET UNDEFEATED AGAINST NEBRASKA COMPETITION Dennis Chapman: 5K school record of 15:17 (Rim Rock Farm Classic), plus Metro Conference and District A-1 champion.

JV 2 ND //RIM ROCK FARM CLASSIC, GOLD DIVISION

CROSS COUNTRY

1ST //MILLARD WEST INVITATIONAL 1ST //MILLARD WEST JV INVITATIONAL

Photo courtesy of Mac Johnson ‘24

VARSITY RECORD

4-6

29TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR AS A STATE QUALIFIER

JV

3-3

SOPHOMORE

3-4

FRESHMAN A

4-4

FRESHMAN B

3-5

FOOTBALL Photo courtesy of Mac Johnson ‘24

VARSITY RECORD

9-1

1ST // PAPILLION LA VISTA SOUTH INVITATIONAL 1ST // GRETNA INVITATIONAL 1ST // METRO CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT 2 ND // STATE TOURNAMENT

JV RECORD 10-1 CREIGHTON PREP

1ST //METRO CONFERENCE JV TOURNAMENT

16

TENNIS

PrepConnects CONNECTING ALUMNI ALL OVER THE WORLD By: Mike Beacom '85, Director of Alumni Relations

Calling all Creighton Prep alumni!

If you haven't done so already, join the nearly 1,000 Prep graduates who have created a thriving community of former Junior Jays on PrepConnects.

Visit PrepConnects to catch up on the latest posts!

DIRECTORY Filters allow you to easily locate alumni by class, location, industry and more. Moving to a new city?

Organizing a global professional networking group?

Want to get your class together for a holiday lunch?

You'll have search results in seconds.

MENTORING We all have the tie that binds us as Men for Others.

Mentoring features provide alumni the chance to offer a helping hand or find others who can give great career advice.

JOBS Increase your chances of hiring an alum or finding a career opportunity that results from a common connection. Locate alumni whose aptitude and work ethic align with common values that began at Prep.

PHOTOS

"PrepConnects has been a great way for me to find and connect with my classmates, with other Prep alumni and to promote my business and network. There is always good information on the PrepConnects home page that keeps me current with what's happening in the school and wider Prep community. I highly recommend all Prep alumni sign up and use PrepConnects."

— Brian Carlin ‘95

GROUPS Use PrepConnects as a landing spot to create affinity or community groups among other alumni. Enjoy features such as group privacy settings, messaging and feeds to help promote conversation and collaboration.

EVENTS Many events located on PrepConnects will be those associated with the school, but share your own events that support a local charity or a cause that is dear to you. Let Prep alumni rally around you!

BUSINESS DIRECTORY The business directory gives you the opportunity to post your business for free — forever. You can even include links to a business website, hiring page and more.

Share good news about what’s going on in your life, at your work, among your class gatherings and more.

WINTER 2023-2024

Sign up now and keep this valuable and free digital resource right at your fingertips.

SIGN UP NOW AT PREPCONNECTS.ORG. ONCE YOUR PROFILE IS APPROVED, ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF EVERYTHING THE PLATFORM HAS TO OFFER. JOIN TODAY!

17

HIGHLIGHTS from CAMPUS

CREIGHTON PREP

PREP NEWS

SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

18

Eight Named Semifinalists in 2024 National Merit ® Scholarship Program

Club. Prep is grateful to Mike for his continued leadership of this event and to all of this year’s golfers and event sponsors, including dinner sponsors Stephanie and Robb Pantano '93.

SEPTEMBER 21, 2023

Students, Faculty and Staff Named “Matthew” Celebrate the Feast of St. Matthew

The post-round gathering provided guests t he oppor tunit y to hear from senior Christian Bur ton-Lewis '24 about his experience at Prep. His remarks were a reminder of just how impactful Prep can be for young men and how important the Congratulations to the following eight support from this event is to the school. All those named “Matthew” who work and students who were named as semifinalists We hope to see many on the course in 2024 study at Creighton Prep received a special in the 2024 National Merit® Scholarship as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the invitation from President Fr. Matthew Program: Mark Bausch , Josef Crenshaw, Men For Others Golf Classic.

Spotts, SJ to join him for donuts in the Hall Jack Goltl , Elias Jones , Lucas J. Menard , of Fame Room prior to the start of school Cooper Morris , Andrew Rogers , Jackson on Thursday, September 21 to celebrate the SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 Wascher.

Feast of St. Matthew. “Part of our tradition Midwest Province is that we have a shared patron saint, and The excellent performances by t hese Sponsorship Review that is important to celebrate together,” said students on the 2022 Preliminary SAT/ Underway for Prep Fr. Spotts. We look forward to celebrating National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Every six years, the Society of Jesus conducts this feast day for years to come.

Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) was a key factor in a sponsorship review of its member schools their selection as semifinalists. Once again, in the areas of Jesuit and Catholic Mission SEPTEMBER 25, 2023 Prep had more semifinalists than any other and Identity, Governance and Leadership, private school in the state.

2nd Annual CP Jazz Spiritual Formation, Educational Excellence Night a Big Success Those who reach the level of finalist in and Faith that Lives Justice as outlined in the program are expected to be named in the monograph “Our Way of Proceeding: Congratulations to everyone associated February, then finalists will be considered Standards & Benchmarks for Jesuit Schools with the success of the 2nd Annual CP Jazz for National Merit Scholarships that will in the 21st Century.” Creighton Prep Night. The concert featuring the CP Jazz announced on Tuesday, September 19 that Collective and guest artist Pablo Masis and be presented in the spring. the school is going through that process with his NYC Quartet was well attended, and the the Midwest Province during the 2023-2024 boys had an amazing time learning from SEPTEMBER 18, 2023 academic year. these professionals during the afternoon 24th Men for Others Golf rehearsals and the open master class.

The sponsorship process involves a selfClassic Scores for Financial study, stakeholder surveys and an on- “We are very grateful for the opportunity to Assistance at Prep campus visit by an external sponsorship learn from these talented musicians, and team that meets with stakeholders, then share in the experience of an evening visits classrooms and concludes with a performance with them,” said Band Director written report of commendations and Paul Ketchen. “Needless to say, our young recommendations. men are looking forward to the next one!”

The 2023 Men for Others Golf Classic welcomed another exceptional group of guests to enjoy a day of golf and support financial assistance for students who desire a Creighton Prep education.

Hosted for the 24th year by title sponsor M ike Dahir '6 6 , it was a breez y but otherwise beautiful day at Omaha Country

Teams of Prep faculty and staff volunteers began meeting in August to work on items for the self-study, and stakeholder surveys were distributed in September to the Board of Trustees, current parents and alumni. The on-campus visit by an external sponsorship team is scheduled for January 22-24, 2024.

OCTOBER 4 AND 6, 2023

Creighton University Personnel Inform Prep Students About Hazing During community periods on Wednesday, October 4 and Friday, October 6, Creighton Prep welcomed Creighton University Senior Director of Engagement and Belonging Dr. Katie Kelsey and her colleague, Senior Director of Community Standards and

Student Conduct Ms. Desiree Nownes, to speak to all students about the conditions that lead to hazing, how to prevent it and what to do if they witness it or become a victim of it.

Prep parents were then encouraged to follow up their presentation in a conversation with their sons regarding the importance of standing up for their personal values with courage and conviction.

OCTOBER 5, 2023

Matthew O'Meara '25 Awarded the Fr. Thomas W. Neitzke, SJ Leadership Award and Scholarship

This one-year scholarship is awarded annually OCTOBER 13, 2023 to a Prep student who exemplifies the Prep Community Rocks Out to Creighton Prep Grad at Grad characteristic Finest Hour at Car Museum of being “Religious” with an unwavering “Classic cars and classic rock” was the theme commitment to his faith. of this exclusive private concert featuring the Kody is pictured with his mother Rhonda and always impressive Finest Hour band, which Creighton Prep President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ. entertained the crowd at the amazing car showroom owned by Peter Fink '78 . The event's primary purpose was to raise funds for OCTOBER 12, 2023 students in need of financial assistance at Prep.

Creighton Prep Awarded $3 Million Grant for North Campus Improvements

"This venue is truly exceptional and defies expectations,” said Director of Events Amy Knight. “We are immensely thankful to Peter and his wife Carolyn for generously sharing their extensive car and memorabilia collection to support our continued efforts to make the Prep experience accessible to young men.”

OCTOBER 15, 2023

Congratulations to Matthew O'Meara '25, this year's recipient of the Fr. Thomas W. Neitzke, SJ Leadership Award and Scholarship.

This two-year scholarship is awarded annually to an incoming junior based on his contributions to the school, demonstrated engagement in cocurricular activities and excellence in all facets of the Creighton Prep mission during his freshman and sophomore years.

Thanks to everyone who applied, and best of luck to the current Prep sophomores who are looking to apply next spring.

Matthew is pictured with his parents, Jim and Christy, along with Creighton Prep President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ and Head of School Bill Gotch '91.

OCTOBER 6, 2023

Kody Robinson ‘24 Awarded the Dr. Philip and Ruthann Maschka Faithful Servant Scholarship

Mother-Son Mass and Breakfast Hits All the Right Notes

Improvements will include a modern, Another exceptional Mother-Son Mass synthetic eight-lane track and an interior turf and Breakfast brought together Creighton field used for football, soccer and lacrosse.

Prep mothers and sons of all faiths on a mid-October Sunday at the Embassy Suites “I was delighted to learn about this project Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center. and witness the design for Prep’s new allweather track and playing field,” said Varsity The Mass was officiated by members of Prep's Cross Country Coach Fr. Robert Tillman, Jesuit community and was followed by a SJ. Varsity Track & Field Coach Dan Tietjen delightful breakfast and social gathering. added, “The revitalization of this part of Members of the Prep choir graced the service campus promises enduring benefits for our with their outstanding voices, and the program student-athletes and the entire community.” after breakfast included a heartfelt speech by senior Drayton Beber ‘24 and a moving In addition to the impact on Prep’s student- address from Prep mother Angie Quinn. athletes, the upgraded athletic facility will offer yet another space capable of hosting What set this brunch apart was the addition junior high school meets, club track teams of a slideshow that featured heartwarming and summer campers, which in turn will photos of senior mothers and mother create an opportunity to welcome members figures and their sons. Director of Events of the wider community to Prep’s mission.

Amy Knight remarked, “This breakfast is a cherished tradition and a celebration for A huge thank you to all of our donors who the young men and their mothers or mother stepped up to help us with $3 million in figures. It was particularly meaningful for matching funds! me to attend with both of my sons, one of whom is a senior.”

WINTER 2023-2024

Congratulations to Kody Robinson ‘24 , this year’s recipient of the Dr. Philip and Ruthann Maschka Faithful Servant Scholarship.

Creighton Prep announced on Thursday, October 12 that the school had received a $3 million grant from the 2023 ShovelReady Capital Recovery & Investment Act Grant Program of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. The grant will support athletic improvements on north campus, and the amount matched funds that were pledged through private donations.

19

ALUMNI UPDATES

HERE 1960’s Mike Martin ‘63 has worked extensively in the world of intellectual property management, and is currently working under a contract with the Sri Lanka Ministry of Education AHEAD Program to find commercialization opportunities for inventions from universities in that country. He is also retired from his work at Virginia Tech, where he helped license and commercialize inventions by faculty members and graduate students.

CREIGHTON PREP

Over the summer, Bob Hladik ‘65 (pictured at lower right) celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary with his wife Margaret and their family on a trip to Colorado. He noted that “the high point was a family Mass and blessing at Our Lady of the Snow Catholic Church” in Granby. Also on the trip (and pictured in the cowboy hat at top left): Bob Hladik Jr. ‘95.

20

Larry Cimino ‘69 was honored in June by his college alma mater, the University of St. Michael’s College in the University of Toronto, as the first recipient of the Prof. Victoria Mueller-Carson Spirit of St. Mike’s Award. It is presented to “an exceptional member of the alumni community who embodies the values of St Michael’s – Human Dignity, Community, Social Justice, Service, and Sustainability – in their professional, leadership and community impact roles.”

†

Denotes Deceased

THERE

1970’s Tom Sanders ‘70 lives in Wichita, Kansas and is chairman of the board of directors for the Guadalupe Clinic, a Wichita area nonprofit that provides a wide range of free medical services to those who cannot afford health insurance.

“The Holdovers,” the latest film from director C. Alexander Payne ‘79, was released in theaters nationwide in November after positive receptions at screenings, including the Toronto International Film Festival and Telluride Film Festival. It stars Paul Giamatti as a teacher at an East Coast prep school who must watch over students who are unable to go anywhere else for the holidays.

1980’s David Begley ‘75 reports that members of the Class of 1975 are now meeting monthly in the dining area at the Hy-Vee store at 8809 West Center Road. “In my view, everyone is still the same but wiser now, better looking and with some gray hairs,” he said. “We share lots of laughs catching up with each other after all these years. We reminisce about the exceptional teachers we had at Prep and how influential they were to our development as men.”

Phil Franco ‘76 retired in July after 23 years of service in the Facilities Maintenance department at Creighton Prep. Best wishes for a restful and relaxing next chapter, Phil!.

James C. O’Brien ‘78 was confirmed in early October by the United States Senate as Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs.

Among his previous roles at the State Department, Jim served as a presidential envoy for hostage affairs. He was named Alumnus of the Year at Prep in 2006.

John Sonderman ‘81 is a geneticist in the swine industry, manages a herd of Shorthorn cattle and was recently elected to the position of executive director for the board of the American Shorthorn Association.

Rich Dunlop ‘85 and his wife Melissa are the parents of two daughters and live in Savannah, Georgia. He works for Atlas Air as a senior captain, check pilot and training instructor on the Boeing B-777.

Rich was also recently selected to be an FAA designated examiner, conducting evaluations for other pilot’s B-777 type ratings.

A large portion of the Class of 1985 gathered in the Sullivan Center on August 27 at a fundraiser for their classmate Dave Francl ‘85, who was diagnosed earlier this year with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also know as ALS). Please pray for Dave, his wife Stephanie and all their family members and friends during this challenging time.

1990’s J.J. Gottsch ‘90 lives in Austin, Texas and is the CEO of the Austin Gamblers professional bull riding team, which won the Professional Bull Riders regular season title this year. He’s also the chairman of the Austin Sports Commission and is active in Foster Angels of Central Texas, an organization that addresses a variety of needs for young people in foster care.

Prior to his current role with the Austin Gamblers, he spent over two decades running the sports and entertainment holdings for the family of National Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan.

He credits his time at Prep, where he transferred for his junior and senior years, as pivotal to the success he has had. “Prep was amazing for me,” he noted. ”It was something I needed that I didn’t know I needed.”

A multi-sport athlete in Valley, Nebraska, he and his family went looking for a larger high school for J.J. in Omaha after his sophomore year. Someplace where he could showcase his athletic talents, especially in baseball. (He would go on to play for Prep then for Creighton University on their 1991 College World Series team before transferring to Texas Christian University, where he played one year and was an assistant coach for two.)

After he and his parents discussed the idea of J.J. transferring to Prep with Head Baseball Coach and theology teacher Bill Laird ‘66, he soon found himself in an interview and on a school tour with Jesuit community rector Fr. Larry Gillick, SJ. J.J. recalled, “Fr. Gillick probably had the biggest impact on me to this day. I’ve never really talked to somebody in depth like I talked to him that day.” He also marveled at the blind priest’s ability to give a detailed tour of the Prep campus.

“We’re going around the entire school and I’m thinking, ‘Here’s a guy who cannot see that could explain the surroundings of our walk better than anybody ever could have.’”

Among the highlights of his Prep experience, J.J. remembers the work by counselor Mike Culver to prepare him for college and being coached in basketball by Br. Mike Wilmot, SJ. In summarizing his experience at CP, he said, “Prep gave me a North Star and the friendships I still have. It centered me, and it was the teachers and the mentors there that really molded the foundation for a lot of the decisions I still make in my life and the things that I do.”

2000’s James Gildon ‘01 was announced in August as the new director of track and field at Eastern Illinois University after success in coaching many Bowling Green State University student-athletes to regional and national prominence in the sport.

2010’s Graham Yost ‘15 lives in Salt Lake City and works at Goldman Sachs as an associate in the risk division, focused on managing the firm’s liquidity risk reporting.

Musician Owen Justice ‘18 and his band play a mix of alternative country and rock at venues around the Omaha area, and they released their first album in November. Their music can be found on Apple Music and Spotify.

2020’s The October 21 football game between Princeton and Harvard was the setting for a reunion of recent Prep alumni and current Ivy League student-athletes.

Pictured from left to right, Mason Armstead ‘20 and Rocco Marcelino ‘23 of Princeton and Jack Kirkwood ‘22 of Harvard.

Luke Jungers ‘22 is continuing his academic and athletic careers at the University of Nebraska Omaha, where he is a forward on the Maverick basketball team.

He also competed for the Luxembourg men’s national team this past summer during the European Championship tournament hosted by the International Basketball Federation while his brother and current Prep student Max Junger ‘27 competed for the Luxembourg junior national team in that same tournament.

Noah Dogba ‘23 is a student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and was featured in a September KMTV news story about his many interests, including architecture and community development.

He was also one of the recipients of the 2023 Omaha 20 Under 20 NE awards sponsored

by THE BLOC, a nonprofit with a mission to improve the lives of young people and senior citizens.

WINTER 2023-2024

Tad Dickel ‘98 is the president of T.A. Dickel, LLC and consults with clients on issues related to strategic planning, leadership and other organizational challenges. He is also the author of the book “Catholic School Planned Giving: Ensuring long-term sustainability through a legacy society,” which is available on Amazon.

Nic Petersen ‘02 is now the associate head coach for jumps for the University of Florida track and field program, where he has also coached student-athletes to great accomplishments, including at conference and national levels.

21

FRESHMEN -

WHAT DO YOU THINK SO FAR? Perspective from the Class of 2027

C

aitlyn Thomas, a senior at Creighton University and marketing/ communications intern for Creighton Prep, interviewed freshmen about their experience so far. Here’s what they said.

JOHN BECKER ‘27 Can you describe your first couple weeks at Prep? What were your initial thoughts and feelings?

“The experience at Creighton Prep so far has been surreal. I love high school and getting a feel for the atmosphere at Prep while meeting new people through cross country and my classes. Prep has been challenging, but I wanted to push myself academically and athletically. Everyone has been so welcoming and truly wants each of us to succeed and be successful as freshmen.”

MAX PIRSCH ‘27

CREIGHTON PREP

What made you choose Creighton Prep for high school? How does the school meet your expectations so far?

22

“I was deciding between Creighton Prep and another Catholic high school, and I ultimately decided to come to Prep because of the challenging academics, the brotherhood and the lifelong connections from a Jesuit school. My shadow day made me realize that this is a place where I could see myself grow and continue to be challenged. Prep has pushed me to study hard and set goals for myself academically and through extracurriculars.”

PETER SAUER ‘27 What’s your favorite memory or experience so far at Creighton Prep?

“My favorite memory is my second cross country meet. I wanted to do a sport at Prep, and I had never run cross country before. I got a three minute personal record at my second meet on a difficult course while my whole family was there to watch and support me. I went up to (coach) Fr. Tillman (SJ) after I got my PR, and he and the entire team were so excited and supportive of me. I will continue to do cross country with the goal to be on varsity my senior year!”

JAY APP ‘27 What has been your favorite class or subject, and why?

“My favorite class has been Spanish; however, it’s also been one of my hardest classes. We learn a lot in class, and it’s challenging but a great skill to know. My teacher is passionate about the language and encourages us to put forth our best effort which makes me excited to go to class. I’ve really enjoyed the activities and lessons which help us learn and improve. I am looking forward to continuing to expand my abilities and knowledge at Prep, specifically in Spanish!”

STEPHON VAUGHN ‘27 Are there any resources or support systems at Creighton Prep that have been particularly helpful to you as a freshman?

“There's so many resources that are available to us as students. We can use the study spaces or go get after-school help with our homework. The teachers at Prep also make an extra effort to offer additional assistance to make you understand the concepts and be successful in the classroom. My guidance counselor also has been a great resource that I know I can always turn to.”

OLIVER WONG ‘27 Are there any goals or aspirations you have for your high school years at Creighton Prep?

WINTER 2023-2024

“My goal at Creighton Prep is to work hard and take advantage of each opportunity. I know Prep is going to prepare me for college and my future which makes me work hard and be thankful. I want to live out the Jesuit values of the "Grad at Grad," which are open to growth, intellectually competent, religious, loving and committed to doing justice. I hope to become a better person when I step out into the world after my four years here at Prep.”

23

THE LOYOLA DINNER OF HONOR & DISTINCTION Honoring those who live as men and women for and with others.

M

ore than 350 attendees gathered at Creighton Prep on Wednesday, October 25 for the 27th annual Loyola Dinner of Honor and Distinction. The event honored five outstanding individuals who have dedicated their lives to service and have made an impact on the Prep community.

Jim Rouse '62 and Hall of Fame inductee Stephen C. "Steve" Wertzberger pause their conversation for a photo.

The first to be honored at the event was Fr. Don Doll, SJ, who was awarded the Sword of St. Ignatius. Fr. Doll was recognized for his award-winning photography of people and cultures around the world as well as his commitment of service to others throughout his Jesuit vocation and as a teacher at Creighton University.

Inducted into the Hall of Fame was Stephen C. “Steve” Wertzberger, whose nearly 40 years of remarkable work at Prep included excellence in roles such as theology teacher, Student Council and National Honors Society moderator, reserve baseball coach, director of standardizing testing, director of summer school and director of guidance.

New Head of School Bill Gotch '91 greets former Prep principal, president and Sword of St. Ignatius honoree John Naatz.

Also inducted into the Hall of Fame was Ryan M. Zabrowski ‘96, for his steadfast devotion to Creighton Prep over the course of his eight years on the Board of Trustees, including three as chairman. Ryan was critical to the success of many initiatives that represent one of the greatest periods of growth in the school’s history.

CREIGHTON PREP

Former Prep parent Sharon Doran was honored with the Ancilla Domini award. Sharon’s development of the Seeking Truth Catholic Bible Study, service as an Ignatian spiritual director and retreat director, and extraordinary support of Prep programs that involved her five Prep sons are just a few examples of her impressive dedication to her faith, family and community.

24

Treasurer of the USA Midwest Province, former Prep president and Hall of Fame member Fr. Tim Lannon, SJ catches up with Hall of Fame inductee Ryan M. Zabrowski '96.

Alumnus of the Year was awarded to F. Joseph “Joe” Warin ‘68, for an exceptional lifetime of service that has included decades of high-quality representation for clients in the legal profession, board work for a number of civic and professional organizations, coaching youth sports and parish work in a meals program for the homeless.

Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees, and thanks to everyone who attended and made this an incredible evening.

Ancilla Domini honoree Sharon Doran visits with past Prep parents Dede and Will Johnson.

THE THE POWER POWER OF BASH OF BASH

WANT TO GET INVOLVED IN THIS YEAR’S BASH? Visit CreightonPrep.org/BASH to learn more about volunteering and giving opportunities. We hope to see you there!

BRINGING COMMUNITY TOGETHER TO SUPPORT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AT CREIGHTON PREP

PLAN NOW TO JOIN US FOR BASH 2024 IN THE HEIDER CENTER ON SATURDAY, APRIL 20!

C

reighton Prep’s annual fundraiser BASH is an opportunity for the community to come together to support education for many young men and their families while enjoying a memorable evening in the Heider Center. The event is responsible for approximately one-third of the annual funding needed to support student education at Creighton Prep. Every year the goal for fundraising is slightly higher than the last, and for the past two years, BASH has raised more than $1 million to support the educational gap between the cost of tuition and the actual cost of student education.

Creigton Prep Director of Events Amy Knight says it takes a village.

“What makes this event successful are the people, our community,” said Amy. “It’s working with parents, alumni, partners, caterers, audio/visual crews, sound and lighting professionals and our hundreds of donors who all make this a success. It takes everybody working together and doing their part.”

“Some people bring time, some people bring talent, some people bring treasure. And it's critical to remember that all of those are equally important," noted Amy. "Some can give big sponsorships and donate a week at a nice vacation home. And there are some people who give their time and work on committees, or they volunteer that night at the event. And that’s what makes it all work.

You have everybody doing their part and doing what they can do.”

BA SH 2023 atten

BASH’S MISSION STATEMENT:

dees raise their pa

ddles to donate to

Prep.

BASH plays a vital role in Prep’s ongoing commitments to deliver educational excellence to 1,000 young men, to keep their tuition affordable, and to provide $3.5 million in annual financial assistance to over half of them. Bottom line, all funds raised through BASH go to support financial assistance for our students.

SO MANY WAYS TO GET INVOLVED. VOLUNTEER

AUCTION DONATION

SPONSORSHIP

RAFFLE TICKET

ADVERTISING

WINTER 2023-2024

There are many ways to get involved in BASH. The auction committee is looking for donated items, which can include everything from gift certificates and baskets, vacations and travel vouchers to football tickets, concert tickets and more.

There are opportunities to advertise in BASH’s digital catalog, which is widely promoted online and accessed throughout the event. Premier Partners and corporate sponsorships are also

sold in person and online. Ticket prices will be one for $100, three for $250, seven for $500 and 15 for $1,000. The BASH committee is also incredibly grateful for volunteers who help set up, decorate and/or work the event.

25

PLEASE IN MEMORIAM

ALUMNI Mark J. Allen ‘74

brother of Charles ‘57†, David ‘59, Michael ‘62

Edward F. Sterba ‘55

Julie Tefft

father of Michael ‘80, grandfather of Noah ‘07

wife of Scott ‘54

Robert C. Stoffel ‘67

James J. Hughes Jr. ‘51

Timothy J. Tierney ‘62

George D. Johnson ‘45

Emmet Tinley III ‘61

Patrick Bowman

father of Matthew ‘72, Paul ‘74, Chris ‘75, Robert ‘83, John ‘86†, grandfather of George ‘15, Jack ‘16, Andrew Rommelfanger ‘09, William Rommelfanger ‘14, brother of John ‘46†, Richard ‘51

father of Patrick ‘86, Kevin ‘93, Timothy ‘97, son of Emmet ‘34†, brother of Michael ‘63†, Timothy ‘70†, Christopher ‘79†

Gerald C. Brundo

William H. Justus ‘50

son of Joseph ‘42†

father of Gerald ‘01, grandfather of Salvatore Goaley ‘21

Robert L. Kearns ‘56

Charles A. Vacanti ‘54

James Q. Crowe

Michael A. Kelley ‘65

Thomas P. Weekly ‘70

brother of Anthony ‘73

son of Thomas ‘36†, father of Thomas ‘94, Sean ‘99, grandfather of Thomas ‘26

father of Cian ‘21, brother of William ‘69†, Michael ‘74†, James ‘79

Justin Belitz ‘52

Thomas J. Kilker ‘53

Edward Whelan Jr. ‘46

Richard J. Kolc ‘58

brother of William ‘48, Donald ‘53

John C. Emery

Donald J. Wiley ‘52

father of Robert ‘90

Frank R. Barta '58 brother of Richard '66

Eugene D. Bastian ‘58 (05/11/21)

Anthony C. Battaglia ‘54 father of Mark ‘87, grandfather of Zackary Leighton ‘11

W. Richard Bay ‘48 Gene T. Beard ‘79

brother of John ‘51†, James ‘56†

Richard Bezousek ‘56 brother of Robert ‘71

Richard L. Billotte ‘45 (06/13/14)

John F. Bolamperti ‘55 father of Ted ‘78, Matthew ‘81, brother of Richard ‘51, Theodore ‘58, Terence ‘68

father of William ‘72

John P. Krejci ‘73 brother of James ‘77

L. James Madden ‘50 (02/19/23)

Stephen M. Madigan ‘84 (02/27/23)

son of Clarence ’35†, brother of Jerome ‘61

Thomas “Omar” Troia ‘72

FATHERS father of Patrick ‘90, Brian ‘92, Timothy ‘96, grandfather of Christian ‘25

father of James ‘99

Duane J. Dowd father of Matthew ‘90, grandfather of Patrick ‘19, Timothy ‘26

(11/13/21)

Barry Gerken

James D. Wolford ‘86

father of Matthew ‘02

brother of Michael ‘78

John J. Giordano

Patrick M. Woster ‘73

father of J. Christopher ‘81, grandfather of Spencer Smith ‘18

Jack R. Zabel ‘66

brother of Mark ‘86

Walter L. Hower

Frank G. Mancuso ‘66

WIVES

father of John '83, Joseph '84, Timothy '85, William '90, Daniel '91, Matthew '93, grandfather of Benjamin '16, Alexander '18, Noah Welchans '18

son of Frank ‘42 , father of Joseph ‘98, brother of Martin ‘68, John ‘74, James ‘79

Roberta L. Cline widow of E. Leo ‘54†

Jack N. Jensen

John H. Neu ‘56 (04/05/23)

Jean Dahlquist

Richard L. Noble ‘54

wife of Robert ‘51

(03/14/20)

Shelly L. Dworak

brother of Robert ‘51†, Thomas ‘58

Robert T. O’Donnell ‘52

wife of Michael ‘69

Robert D. Cooney ‘58

William R. Orthwein III ‘49

Kathleen Susan Edmunds

James F. Caniglia ‘51 father of James ‘94, brother of Joseph ‘49, Jerome ‘56

Richard C. Carmichael ‘65 (07/24/21)

brother of William ‘63, Robert ‘67

Michael L. Clements ‘83 son of Thomas '57, brother of Daniel '81

P. James Connor ‘47

Frank A. Majka, SJ ‘63 †

brother of Michael ‘57†, Jerome ‘59, John ‘66†

(03/18/19)

widow of H. Renne ‘49†

Louis J. Croghan ‘39

J. Patrick Rose ‘54

Zella Grant

(01/11/21)

Mark J. Dahir ‘93

father of Kevin ‘86, grandfather of Cameron ‘13, Nolan ‘17

widow of John ‘38†

Elizabeth M. Gulizia

son of Michael ‘66, brother of Michael ‘89, Joseph ‘90

James T. Ruswick ‘67

Edward F. Degan ‘52

Albert P. Santa Luca ‘67

Janice Kilker

William “Jim” Schneiderwind ‘50

wife of Thomas ‘53

Harold E. Searl ‘53

Zita H. Kohanek

Roger A. Erftmier ‘58 John V. Fangman ‘58

CREIGHTON PREP

Thomas A. Heim ‘61

OCT 31 2023

William H. Heyden ‘48

(01/30/23)

Lawrence C. Bausch ‘59

26

REMEMBER

MAY 01 2023

wife of Sebastian ‘53

widow of James ‘41†, mother of James ‘63, John ‘75†

father of Steven ‘83, Matthew ‘86, Scott ‘89, grandfather of Oliver ‘27

Anthony A. Simunaci ‘61 (10/07/22)

Louise Madden

Franklin S. Forbes ‘81

James Skomal ‘45

(02/22/23)

Peter F. Frenzer ‘52

(03/04/14)

widow of L. James '50†

(07/22/21)

James P. Sledge '63

Joan Norris

son of William 1925†, grandson of Peter 1884†, brother of David ‘58, William ’67

father of James '90, Joseph '91, grandfather of Nicholas '23, Matthew '25

Jamie M. Parmenter

James F. Gilroy ‘52

Mathew C. Smith ‘67

wife of Mark ‘97

brother of Edward ‘57

brother of Richard ‘83

Judith R. Regan

Stephen V. Harvey ‘72

John L. Steele ‘63

(05/26/22)

widow of Thomas ‘52†, mother of Michael ‘77

father of Michael ‘86, David ‘88, grandfather of Colton ‘27

Randall E. Kollasch father of David ‘96

Pete C. Lowder father of David ‘95

Bernard A. Madden father of Timothy ‘79

Ronald G. Mayne Sr. father of Ronald ‘81

Matthew R. Mendlick father of Ryan ‘25

Stephen H. Nelson father of Stephen ‘87, Christian ‘88

Charles J. Novacek father of Alan ‘83

Robert C. Padios father of Victor ‘93

Robert S. Runyon father of Neil ‘87

Edward M. Schima father of Stephen ‘94

Ronald E. Stuva

(03/11/23)

brother of William ‘61†

widow of Patrick ‘50†

son of William ‘45† brother of John ‘75, Robert ‘87

father of David ‘74†, Glenn ‘80†, Bruce ‘83†, grandfather of Bradley ‘00, Brent ‘03

Thomas A. Steenson ‘67

Carol S. Smith

Gary T. Yager, Sr.

(March 2023)

widow of Jeffrey ‘61†

father of Gary ‘90, brother of Gordon ‘60

†

MOTHERS Mary Joy Anderson mother of Mickey ‘86, grandmother of Asher ‘23, Isaiah ‘24, Noah ‘26, Talton Quinn ’23, Peter Quinn ‘24

Margaret M. Benak mother of Christopher ‘82, Daniel ‘86 , Matthew ‘91, grandmother of Troy Goodman ‘00, James Owens ‘09, Thomas Owens ‘12, Brendan Owens ‘16, Peter Owens ‘18, Paul Owens ‘20 †

Jeanne A. Bickels mother of Edward ‘81

Christine A. Borngrebe mother of Craig ‘93, Keith ‘95, Kurt ‘96, Kevin ‘98, grandmother of Aidan ‘22

Joanne P. Cady mother of James ‘74

Renee S. Cann mother of Anthony ’26, Michael ‘26

Dorothy I. Daeges mother of Donald ‘81

Dolores A. Ryan

mother of Andrew ’90, grandmother of Wilson ‘24

mother of Robert ’72, Steven ‘75

Jeanette A. Heyden

Nancy L. Ryan

mother of Steven ‘74

mother of John ‘78, Daniel ‘86, grandmother of Aidan ‘19, Thomas Gasnick ‘09, Robert Gasnick ‘11

mother of Frank ‘90

Kristine L. Scahill

Sandra A. Krupa

mother of Quinn ‘09

mother of Tanner ‘24

Linda L. Trotter

Mary M. Larsen

mother of Kerry '82, Kirk '82

father of Bradley ‘00, Brent ‘03, brother of Glenn ‘80†, Bruce ‘83†

Mary L. Nanfito

mother of Russ ‘79, Kenneth ‘92

mother of Joseph ‘90, grandmother of Zachary ‘24

Lois H. Woster

Zoila M. Navarro

mother of Michael ‘69

mother of Carlos ‘85

Judy Papa mother of Timothy ‘83, Gregory ‘84†, grandmother of Alexander ’19, Luke ‘21

Barbara A. Ratajski mother of John ‘09

Virginia L. Reeder

Kathryn I. Farrens

Christine M. Rich Naylon mother of Paul ‘07

JoAnne M. Roberts mother of Scott ‘79, Todd ‘81, grandmother of Nathan ‘22

Richard "Dick" Bayer ‘55

March 24, 1937 - October 6, 2023

David R. Stuva ‘74

To notify Creighton Prep of the passing of a Prep community member, contact Terri Haller at THaller@CreightonPrep.org or (402) 548-3845.

CHILDREN Sharon Finney daughter of Alice† and Amos Henely ‘29†, sister of Francis ‘50†

Mary Sandra Hamzeh mother of David ‘03†, daughter of Sheila† and David Svoboda ‘47†

William B. Hanna son of Michelle and Michael Hanna ‘85, grandson of John Hanna ‘45†

Kathleen A. Hanson daughter of Mary† and William McArdle ‘47†, sister of William ‘72, Michael ‘78

Dick Bayer '55 is an icon in the history of Creighton Prep, not only for his remarkable tenure of over 50 years as a teacher and coach at the school but the excellence he showed in both endeavors.

After one year in the science department, he moved to the math department and taught freshman algebra, college algebra and advanced geometry, grading on a scale so he could challenge his students. In the mid-90’s, area eighth grade math students would arrive early at Prep to learn in Dick’s “zero hour”

Another longtime member of the Creighton Prep faculty and coaching staff, Dave Stuva '74’s career at the school was marked by more than 40 years of outstanding accomplishments in both the classroom and in athletics.

He was well known as a caring colleague who many will remember as not only an exceptional physics teacher and science department chair but also an innovator and an early adopter of technology who was a leader in fostering hands-on learning and collaboration among the many students who were fortunate enough to be in his classes.

class so that they could get back to their schools by first period. He would then teach a full class schedule the rest of the day.

Among his coaching accomplishments were leading the JV soccer team to a number of undefeated seasons and the gymnastics team to numerous Metro Conference and district titles plus the 1973 state championship.

Dick was inducted in the Creighton Prep Hall of Fame in 1986 and in the Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.

Starting in 1979 and throughout the 1980’s, Dave also helped lead the varsity swimming & diving team to second place finishes at state in 1979, 1980, 1981, 1983 and 1984. Among those he helped coach to greatness in the pool were state medalists and eventual Division I student-athletes Larry Raynor ‘79 (Tennessee), Tony Lazzaretti ‘81 (Hawaii) and Doug Wilwerding ‘81 (Iowa).

Dave and his wife Marsha also had two sons at Prep, Brad Stuva ‘00 and Brent Stuva ‘03.

WINTER 2023-2024

August 27, 1956 - July 13, 2023

father of Martin ‘83, Robert ‘87, Sean ‘93, Steven ‘96, Andrew ‘97, grandfather of Kaleb ‘15, Skyler Davis ‘15, Benjamin ‘17, brother of Joseph ‘64†, James ‘67

David R. Stuva ‘74

Mary Alice Wilwerding

mother of Thomas ‘82, James ‘94 mother of Bryan ‘90, Scott ‘92, grandmother of Jason Becker ‘16

Richard "Dick" Bayer ‘55

mother of John ‘95

mother of Daniel ‘76, Steve ‘78, grandmother of Tyson ‘04, Kyle ‘07, Gage Rensch ‘10, Micah Rensch ‘15

Emmy Lou “Tay” Dean

FACULTY/STAFF

Kay Hale

Dorothy J. Insolera

Denotes Deceased

27

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7400 Western Avenue Omaha, NE 68114-1878 CreightonPrep.org

SUPPORTING PREP YOUR GIFTS HELP CONTINUE OUR LEGACY, AND THE ENTIRE PREP COMMUNITY IS GRATEFUL FOR YOUR GENEROSITY.

HOW TO GIVE CHECK/ENVELOPE Make payable to Creighton Prep and use the enclosed envelope.

ONLINE Visit CreightonPrep.org/Give

EFT CREIGHTON PREP

Call Jennifer Jones, Donor Relations,

28

at (402) 548-6228.

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Omaha’s Jesuit College Preparatory School Since 1878 7400 Western Ave. Omaha, NE 68114-1878 | (402) 393-1190 CreightonPrep.org For more information on giving to Prep, contact Prep Advancement at (402) 548-6218 or Advancement@CreightonPrep.org.