PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
High school life tends to be divided into small time segments. Ringing bells over the intercom are the classic sound that indicates class is in session. Scoreboard buzzers, game clocks and stopwatches all keep time on the athletic fields. Wall mounted clocks and timers count down the remaining minutes in afternoon practice or rehearsals as students participating in cocurriculars like band, choir, robotics or mock trial race to get prepared for the next competition. Over the years, students are surprised to learn that these small increments of time add up in a hurry; they tend to look up one day and realize that four years have flown by.
The same is true for our school as a whole. Somehow, generations of class bells and scoreboard buzzers have added up, and we find ourselves on the brink of a major milestone in Creighton Prep’s history: our 150th anniversary. While this incredible moment in Prep’s heritage is a few short years away, it happens to take place at the heart of our five-year strategic plan, which you will learn more about in the articles to follow.
As we look to the next five years of our mission, and imagine the next 150 years of our legacy, we have every reason to look forward with hope and optimism. Today, as in our past, students come to Prep from all over the metro to be formed by a rigorous college prep program into men of faith, scholarship, leadership and service. This issue of our magazine will make a specific note of how our academic program, driven by our outstanding faculty, is helping our students achieve outcomes that are remarkable even by comparison to our great history. These academic outcomes are being matched by our dedication to transformative faith formation and engagement in service that creates lifelong men for others.
As great as our present mission is, our Ignatian tradition always calls us to look to the horizon, to dream about and work toward the more complete response to God’s call. In this issue, you’ll learn more about our dreams for the future and how we plan to extend our mission in the years to come.
Over the past 150 years, our entire community has cared for this mission and established a school that changes the lives of our students, our Omaha community and our world. Going forward, we have the exciting opportunity to honor that heritage and build on that incredible legacy for the next 150 years.
In Christ’s Mission,
Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ President Creighton Preparatory School
VOLUME 68 NO. 2
WINTER 2024-2025
PUBLISHED BY
Creighton Prep
7400 Western Avenue
Omaha, NE 68114-1878
(402) 393-1190
CreightonPrep.org
President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ
Executive Assistant to the President
Colleen Kirk
Assistant to the President for Mission
Fr. Nick Albin, SJ
Head of School
Bill Gotch ‘91
Chief Financial Officer
Alex Zimmerman
Chief Communications Officer
Kellie Wostrel, APR
Communications Specialist
Pat Neary ‘78
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Caitlyn Thomas
Vice President of Advancement
Sarah Schmitt
Advancement Coordinator
Brandis Adams
Director of Major and Planned Gifts
Brad Burks ‘00
Assistant Director of Annual Giving
Sammie Emsick Becker
Director of Advancement
Operations
Nick Osborn
Director of Alumni Relations
Mike Beacom ‘85
Director of Events
Amy Knight
Events Coordinator
Hannah Pray
Director of Prospect Development and Database Management
Niall Norney '91
Donor Relations Coordinator
Jennifer Jones
Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ
IN THIS ISSUE
Cover Story:
Creighton Prep’s 2029
Strategic Plan
Laying a strong foundation for the next chapter of Prep
United in Service
The power of Operation Others
The Future of Academic Excellence at Prep
How Head of School
Bill Gotch ‘91 and his team will take this first area of focus in the strategic plan to even greater heights
The Furniture Project
Religious Art Takes Center Stage
As part of an exhibition in the Student Art Gallery, renowned Cincinnati-based artist
Holly Schapker visits Prep and lauds the art program as “the prototype ”
Bridging Faith and Art
Fine Arts faculty member
Jeremy Caniglia ‘88 unveils his latest masterpiece, now on display in Italy
The AMDG Fund
Reunion Weekend 2025
A preview of the festivities that await alumni from the 0’s and 5’s
Fall Sports Recap
The latest accomplishments in cross country, football and tennis
Sports Night With a Celtic Great NBA legend Kevin McHale regales the packed Heider Center crowd with stories from his celebrated career at the 32nd annual event to benefit Creighton Prep Athletics
0 4 07 08 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 23 2 4 25 26
After firefighter Drew Gerken ‘97 and his crew were sent to help the ill member of a family with virtually no material possessions, they saw a need for an operation that has gone on to help thousands
Make a big impact on the Prep experience with your December gift
Prep News Highlights from campus
Alumni Updates Here & There
A Father-Son Bond Through Mass
Deacon Fred Abboud ‘99 and altar server Ethan Abboud ‘26 on their faith journey at home and with the Prep community
A Loyola Dinner to Remember
Honoring five outstanding individuals whose lives are examples to us all
BASH 2025 - Be There!
Help us break the attendance record at the 55th BASH in April
In Memoriam
Those we lost, May 1, 2024 through October 31, 2024
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024
Christmas in the Cage
The Heider Center at Creighton Prep
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2024
Operation Others Delivery Day Creighton Prep
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2024
Advent Family Mass
The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep
SATURDAY, JANUARY 11, 2025
8th Grade Scholarship & Entrance Exam Register at CreightonPrep.org/Apply
SATURDAY, JANUARY 25, 2025
6th and 7th Grade Pre-Entrance Exam Visit CreightonPrep.org/Apply to learn more.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 2025
Father-Son Mass and Breakfast
Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2025
Mom Prom CHI Health Center
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2025
Registration Night for the Class of 2029
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025
CP Trivia Night
The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2025
Scholarship Appreciation Breakfast
The Sullivan Center at Creighton Prep
SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025
BASH 2025
The Heider Center at Creighton Prep
SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2025
Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2025 and Jubilarian Reunion for the Class of 1975
The Heider Center at Creighton Prep
LAYING A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR THE NEXT CHAPTER
CREIGHTON PREP’S 2029 STRATEGIC PLAN
Creighton Prep recently introduced its 2029 Strategic Plan, a forward-focused framework designed to address future challenges and seize new opportunities to fulfill the school’s mission more completely. The plan charts a path for growth and innovation, ensuring that Creighton Prep remains true to its purpose and mission in an ever-evolving landscape. Developed in collaboration by a committee of faculty, staff, alumni and community members, the five-year strategic plan focuses on four key pillars: Academic Excellence, Accessibility & Belonging, Whole Person Formation and Infrastructure for Mission. Formal work on the plan started in September 2023, with approval by the Creighton Prep Board of Trustees at the May 2024 meeting.
Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ, president of Creighton Prep, said that the planning process began with a deep reflection on the Jesuit mission. “Strategic plans are an important opportunity to remind ourselves of and renew our commitment to our core mission,” he said. “The first and foremost thing that we did as a committee and as a leadership team was remind ourselves of who we are as a Jesuit school. We reviewed our founding documents, our own mission and value statements, Jesuit Schools Network benchmarks and standards, documents on Ignatian Spirituality and the mission of the Society of Jesus. We were deeply rooted in this important part of the process, which grounded us in who we are before we decided what we do.”
In addition to the strategic plan being built on thoughtful reflection and core values, the committee also examined Prep’s current position and future aspirations. The plan builds on a
period of significant innovation and growth in its educational mission. Moving forward into the next five years, the school sees significant opportunities to further deepen and demonstrate the value of a Prep education through measurable academic rigor and capstone programming, extending accessibility to talented young men from across the Omaha metro area, nurturing the sense of belonging that has been a characteristic of the Prep experience, deepening the distinctive whole person formation that forms men for others and investing in data and physical infrastructures that enable a transformative experience.
“If we look back in five years, and we have accomplished everything in the plan, we probably didn’t dream big enough,” said Fr. Spotts. “I’m proud of our committee for dreaming big in ways that make us feel uncomfortable, and that make us feel like we are a bit out over our skis. We are pushing ourselves. That’s a sign of a good plan.”
Creighton Prep’s 2029 Strategic Plan illustrates a strong foundation for the next chapter in Prep’s storied history, aligning with the school’s milestone 150th anniversary in 2028.
“Ten to 15 years from now, I hope we look back at this plan and say that we kept moving forward and responding to our students and what our students needed … that we looked at the world, that we understood that the world was changing rapidly and found ways to continue helping men for others become the kinds of people who make Omaha and our world a great place.”
2024-2029 AREAS OF FOCUS:
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Vision: Creighton Prep will enhance its status as the leader in both its region and the Jesuit Schools Network for its rigorous academic programs that meet rapidly-evolving educational needs and equip students to live the mission post-graduation.
ACCESSIBILITY & BELONGING
Vision: Creighton Prep will be the home for students from across the Omaha metro area due to increased financial accessibility and through intentional programming that creates a sense of belonging for students, families and alumni.
CREIGHTON PREP’S LEADERSHIP TEAM:
Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ President, Creighton Prep
Mr. Bill Gotch ‘91
Head of School, Creighton Prep Current Parent
WHOLE PERSON FORMATION
Vision: In alignment with our Jesuit mission, Creighton Prep will care for the formation of the whole person through intentional programs of faith and justice formation and mental health support that meet the needs of students in a rapidlychanging world and form them as leaders and men for others.
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR MISSION
Vision: Creighton Prep will be invested in data infrastructure, updated facilities and a new campus master plan that enables an exceptional experience for the needs of present and future students, while caring for our common home.
Ms. Sarah Schmitt Vice President for Advancement, Creighton Prep
Mrs. Kellie Wostrel,
APR Chief Communications Officer, Creighton Prep
Mr. Alex Zimmerman
Chief Financial Officer, Creighton Prep
Creighton Prep’s Leadership Team:
CREIGHTON PREP’S FIVE-YEAR STRATEGIC PLANNING COMMITTEE:
Mr. Kyle Salem (Strategic Planning Facilitator)
CEO, Cassling
Creighton Prep Board of Trustees Member
Current Parent
Mr. Jerry Jurgensen ‘69 (Strategic Planning Chair)
Retired CEO, Nationwide Mutual Insurance & Financial Services
Creighton Prep Board of Trustees Member
Alumnus and Past Parent
Dr. Abbie Raikes Gouttierre
Associate Professor and Director - College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center
Current Parent
Mr. David Kirkwood
Senior Vice President, Tenaska
Creighton Prep Board of Trustees Member Past Parent
Ms. Elaine Ayers
English Faculty, Creighton Prep Past Parent
Ms. Katie Hermanek
Math Faculty, Creighton Prep
Mr. Kurt Tjaden
Attorney, Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O.
Creighton Prep Board of Trustees Member Past Parent
Fr. Nick Albin, SJ
Creighton Prep Assistant to the President for Mission
Fr. Tom Merkel, SJ
President, Gregorian University Foundation
Creighton Prep Board of Trustees Member
Past President of Creighton Prep
THE PULSE OF PREP: A SNAPSHOT OF TODAY
Creighton Prep’s latest strategic plan follows a period of significant growth and innovation. Since the latest plan in 2017, there has been remarkable growth in several areas, including:
• The Loyola Scholars program, which has become an essential part of Prep’s mission. Loyola Scholars now make up approximately 5% of Creighton Prep’s student body, and they are thriving both academically and personally.
• The ToMorrow Labs, which has positioned Prep at the forefront of STEAM education in the region. The cutting-edge facility supports innovative coursework in technology, a growing computer programming curriculum, competitive cybersecurity teams and a world-renowned robotics program.
• Student Support Services, which address the academic, mental health and material needs of Prep’s students.
• Accessibilit y, which has continued to grow with the implementation of Prep’s Income-Based Tuition model and expanded bus routes. Today, more than half of Prep students receive tuition assistance. The current student body also closely reflects the racial diversity of the Omaha community, coming from 70 different sending schools and 50 different ZIP Codes. Many students are the children of immigrants or will be the first in their families to attend college.
• Academic reputation in areas including the performance by students on national tests such as AP Exams and the ACT, which further demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence. Students are accepted to top-tier colleges and universities, and receive impressive scholarship opportunities. Since the last strategic plan, Creighton Prep was also recognized in 2020 as a National Blue Ribbon School.
UNITED IN SERVICE
THE POWER OF OPERATION OTHERS
As the holiday season approaches, Creighton Prep’s spirit of service shines brightly through its Operation Others initiative. This program, which brings together all of Omaha’s Catholic high schools, empowers students like senior Jack Van Moorleghem and teacher Jerry Kinney '95 to make a difference in the community.
The annual goal of Operation Others is to assist 6,000 people and deliver food to approximately 1,300 families. “It's staggering to think that one in five people in our community face food insecurity,” Jerry said, emphasizing the mission's importance. Jack also shared his experience delivering food, recalling the joy on a family's face when they receive their package. “It’s a beautiful reminder of how meaningful our work is,” he said.
The combined experience of Operation Others unites Omaha's Catholic high schools, maximizing their impact on the community. Each school plays a role by focusing on specific food items. For instance, Creighton Prep collects canned chicken and tuna, while other schools gather peanut butter, canned vegetables and fruit. This approach not only expands the organization’s mission but also creates a strong sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds. Together, they achieve more than they could individually.
The benefits of participating in Operation Others extend beyond community service; they also help shape the students involved. “Through this work, we build friendships and solidarity,” Jack explained. “It gives us perspective on what it means to be materially poor and reminds us that these challenges exist right in our own neighborhoods.”
“The experience plants seeds of empathy and responsibility in our students,” added Jerry. “They learn that service is a lifelong commitment, encouraging them to carry these values into their future careers.”
JOIN US FOR DELIVERY DAY
As Delivery Day approaches, both Jack and Jerry invite the community to get involved. Whether it’s by participating in Delivery Day on December 21, donating for fundraising events like the upcoming Turkey Drop-Off Day on November 23 or making monetary donations via Venmo @OperationOthers. Every contribution helps ensure that more families can share in the joy of the season.
In Jack’s words, “Operation Others is about more than just delivering food; it’s about creating a culture of compassion and support. Together, we can make an impact.”
Saturday, December 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the west parking lot at Creighton Prep.
THE FUTURE OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AT PREP
A deeper look with Head of School Bill Gotch ‘91 on how he and his team will take Prep academic rigor to even greater heights.
Even with an exceptional group of teachers, a rigorous curriculum and senior classes where 75% have at least one college scholarship offer and 28% percent have secured full-tuition college scholarships, there is no finish line in sight when it comes to academic excellence at Creighton Prep. Or, for that matter, any part of the Prep experience. Only ever-greater steps up higher mountains.
Why? Because Prep is about “magis,” the core Jesuit value of striving for more for the greater glory of God. Asking, “What more can I do?" and "How can I do what I do more effectively to bring forth the greater glory of God?" It’s a cycle of constant improvement and evaluation that has served and continues to serve Prep well.
Atop that next highest mountain is greater leadership by Prep, regionally and across the Jesuits Schools Network, through programs that meet rapidly evolving educational needs and prepare students to live the mission more fully, post-graduation. Charting that ascent for completion by 2029-2030, with all of its associated waypoints, is Head of School Bill Gotch ‘91 and his academic team, who are working toward that future from a position of great strength.
“When you look at Prep’s Advanced Placement (AP) class availability and dual enrollment availability, it’s nationally impressive,” said Bill. “When you also have our young men competing at this high level with this level of academics in a college admissions world, that transcript, the classes that they take here, really shine when you’re an admissions officer. Going forward, we can express that even further with more
opportunities for students to take honors classes, AP classes and dual enrollment from all over the metro.”
In addition, Bill noted that Prep has future plans to move to the PreACT for the 8th Grade Scholarship & Entrance Exam and also for standardized testing for freshman, sophomores and juniors. Then, the ACT will be mandatory for juniors in the spring. With this testing comes the ability for Prep to analyze each student’s performance and track their progress over time.
He also pointed out that Prep even plans to enhance the preparations it offers for the ACT as it continues to “buck the trend” on student ACT scores, which many students may not need for college admission but can help them acquire “merit scholarships, especially.” In fact, during the 2023-2024 school year, Prep students taking the ACT scored nearly six points above the national average, which is the school's largest difference from the national average since 1990.
Among other highlights in current academic excellence at Prep, Bill mentioned that the strategy to provide a number of pathways to “deeper, more complex calculus” from lower level math classes is setting Prep students apart from their peers in college admissions. “It’s part of the secret sauce to being hypercompetitive,” he remarked.
In looking forward through the strategic plan to 2029, he and his team will be placing a lot of developmental emphasis in three key areas: global scholarship, instructional coaching and a capstone learning environment.
AP Computer Science taught by Tom Pacer ‘92
“We’re subscribed to a global scholarship network in the Jesuit Schools Network,” Bill said. “And the idea is to increase our focus there so that our guys get a deeper understanding of the larger world we live in, the issues affecting people everywhere, the interconnectedness between them and the opportunities for solutions. We want them to start developing preferences for the kinds of problems they want to be part of solving.”
With that in mind, Prep plans to invest heavily in the kind of coaching that can make good teachers great and the best teachers a group of master teachers. Bill referred to the exciting work being done in this area by Dr. James Knight at the Center for Research on Learning at The University of Kansas, where Academic Principal Joe Ryberg ‘84 , Dean of Faculty Formation Jackie Schulte and department chairs Barb Hake (English), TJ Fyfe ‘99 (science) and Tom Murray (theology) have already spent time learning more about it.
“It leads to really high-level thought partnering about strong academics at a school,” he stated. “It also takes our extremely professional teachers to the next level, helps us retain them and recruit even more of the best out there in a world where fewer people are becoming teachers.”
At the Prep of the future, those teachers will be working together across disciplines to build a curriculum that links concepts together for students in an omnidirectional, not just linear, manner. Ultimately, that will get expressed at Prep in Senior Capstone projects that tie together the holistic Prep curriculum with the gifts and vocational desires of the student, while creating a constant culture of encounter.
In that culture of encounter, students take what they’ve learned about the problems of the world they want to solve and start doing something about them. Along the way, they may fail or succeed and learn a lot from both, which can help them hone in on a plan and a place for higher education that prepares them even more for the challenges they’ve chosen to meet.
“We want students who are bothered by the way something is in the world to ask themselves, ‘What am I going to do about it?,’ and then go do it with all the critical thinking and cognitive adaptability they’ve developed,” Bill said. “That’s the Jesuit mission. In my mind, that’s the Catholic mission, too.”
AP Calculus AB taught by Andrew Fisher ‘08
AP Chemistry taught by Mike Clark
Bill Gotch ‘91 (in plaid shirt) with members of his academic team: (L-R) Ericka Vaughan, Joe Ryberg '84 , Chris Searl '83 , John Jenkins and Jackie Schulte.
DREW GERKEN '97
The Furniture Project
In late October 2013, firefighter Drew Gerken ‘97 was on duty at Station 34 in Omaha’s midtown when the crew was dispatched to a residence to check on an ill individual. The home was shared by two sisters and their three children. While some firefighters assessed the woman’s condition, Drew and a few others surveyed the surroundings. They quickly noticed there was nowhere to sit: no chairs, no couch, no bed or dresser, not even a pillow in sight.
Drew began speaking with the children and asked one little boy where he slept. The boy led him to a bedroom and pointed to three corners where clothes were piled on the floor. He explained that he slept on top of the clothes and used them as blankets. Drew noticed stickers on the suitcases from a local organization that helps the homeless. It became clear that the family had been displaced and recently resettled into the apartment. However, their basic needs were still unmet. They had walls and a roof, but it wasn’t a true home. They were still functionally homeless.
The crew went back to the fire station and brainstormed how they could help. Drew and his teammates reached out through social media, and within a day, they had been offered home items from a variety of people. They spent the next day picking up furnishings and goods around town, and dropping them off to the family.
“By the time we were done, they had a really nice little apartment,” said Drew. “They had a functional living room, and everyone had a bed and a dresser. It was a nice dignified space for this family, and it was the spark that grew into The Furniture Project.”
After the apartment was fully set up, Drew continued to receive calls from people asking if he still needed items. He began collecting furniture and storing it in garages and basements, while partnering with schools and organizations like Creighton Prep, Marian High School and others to furnish apartments for families arriving in Omaha through the refugee resettlement process.
Today, The Furniture Project is a registered 501(c)(3), operating out of a warehouse with 10 full-time staff, in addition to temporary staff and volunteers who are dedicated to the mission. Drew serves as the founder and works at The Furniture Project on days when he is not on duty at the fire station. Prep alumnus Matt Hoppe ‘98 serves as the executive director. The organization continues to be fueled through the generous support of the community. “You can schedule a truck to come by and pick up your furniture, or we have open dock hours where people can drop off their donation,” said Drew.
Drew added that though they accept used mattresses and bed frames, they are not able to keep up with the demand through donations. “We’ve had to start purchasing mattresses,” said Drew. “Last year, we gave away 1,500 mattresses, and I’m sure we’ve given away more than that already this year.”
The Furniture Project works directly with case workers through nearly 200 social service agencies, helping individuals who are refugees and in the process of resettling as well as women and children fleeing domestic violence, children in and out of foster care, veterans, people who are experiencing persistent poverty, those emerging from homelessness and more.
“We only work through case workers because we’ve found that if someone is seeking our help, they probably also will benefit from having someone who can assist them with health care, food stability, keeping a house, employment, child care and getting kids in and out of school. Those are all things that a case worker can help with that we don’t really do,” said Drew.
There is pride in every donation that is provided to The Furniture Project. Items that are damaged or worn are repaired and refinished. Used mattresses are heated and couches are thoroughly cleaned to ensure that they are safe to give away. Volunteers who enjoy refurbishing projects are oftentimes given the opportunity to help with fixing up items. “We would love it if the item that we gave to somebody really enhanced their space and became something that they were proud of and were excited to receive,” Drew noted.
Volunteers are typically from Omaha metro area companies and schools, including local Catholic high schools. Creighton Prep students volunteer at The Furniture Project as part of their Arrupe Experience class, which focuses on Catholic social teaching and service. “What I tell our Prep students who volunteer here and others is that we have a responsibility and duty to serve,” said Drew. “I hope for those who are serving here a semester at a time begin to see that they have a role to play in creating this community. Many of us don’t know what that role is going to be until we are out of high school, but I think just being aware and open to that service is really important.”
When Drew thinks back to the first days of The Furniture Project, he remembers wanting to make a positive impression on his own children. “I wanted to show my kids that their dad was the kind of person who cared about other people and was willing to work to help others,” he remarked. “But then as it grew, our staff and volunteers focused on creating the kind of world that we want to live in. A community where people care about each other. Where people see a neighbor in need and say, ‘I’m going to see what I can do to help.’”
Drew said that though it’s called The Furniture Project, it’s never really been about the furniture. It’s about creating a community grounded in dignity, respect and solidarity, standing with our neighbors, not just helping them. “It’s about loving our neighbors and using our charisms to best serve our community,” added Drew. “I hope I inspired others toward empathy.”
The Furniture Project is looking for donated furniture and household items as well as monetary donations to help continue and grow their impact on the Omaha community and surrounding areas. For more information on how to support The Furniture Project, visit https://www.thefurnitureproject.org/.
2021
Drew worked solo, serving 85 families.
2022
The Furniture Project moved into a new warehouse and hired its first staff member, expanding its reach to 728 families.
2023
With more staff, volunteers and community support, The Furniture Project served 1,152 families.
2024
By mid-September, The Furniture Project had already matched its 2023 total, serving 1,152 families - and counting!
Creighton Prep seniors volunteering at The Furniture Project.
L-R: I an Thompson '25, Stanley Hebert '25, Drew Gerken '97 and Mathiang Mathiang '25
RENOWNED ARTIST HOLLY SCHAPKER VISITS CREIGHTON PREP
FOR A DAY OF ART AND INSPIRATION
On Thursday, October 10, Creighton Prep welcomed Cincinnati-based painter Holly Schapker for a memorable day of creative exploration and artistic engagement. Holly met with several art and photography classes, interacting with students and sharing her artistic journey, techniques and motivations behind her work. She also brought a variety of art pieces to display in a monthlong exhibition in Creighton Prep’s Student Art Gallery.
An open house was held from 5:307:30 p.m. in the gallery to celebrate both Prep’s student artists and Holly’s paintings. Attendees mingled with artists and learned more about Holly’s experiences in storytelling through art.
In her remarks at the event, Holly told those in attendance how much she was changed by her day with the Prep artists and their teachers, and that she believed Prep’s art program was “the prototype” that could be followed by many other schools.
Holly's work is widely recognized for her compelling religious themes, which include Ignatian works, Franciscan works, Stations of the Cross, young saints, Jesus, Pope Francis, Mary and others. She attributes her religious and Ignatian direction to prayer and her spiritual journey. “I believe that painting chose me,” she expressed, reflecting on the persistence and passion that has defined her career. When Holly signs her paintings “HS,” she says that it represents the Holy Spirit. “That’s what guides me,” she said as she explained the spiritual influence in her work.
Holly’s Cincinnati studio is located in a renovated 140-year-old building in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, about one mile north of downtown. Her most recent project is a book called “Universal Mother - A Journal for Finding Yourself in Mary.” To learn more about Holly Schapker, her religious works and her most recent projects, visit https://www.hollyschapker.com/.
Holly Schapker stands next to her painting of St. Ignatius.
BRIDGING FAITH AND ART
JEREMY CANIGLIA '88 UNVEILS ST. LUCIA PORTRAIT
Creighton Prep Fine Arts Teacher Jeremy Caniglia ‘88 recently finished his latest piece, a painting of St. Lucia, which was created in Omaha and relocated to Carlentini, Italy. Jeremy attributes the painting’s deep resonance to his Sicilian heritage and faith. Growing up in Omaha, Jeremy was influenced by his family's connection to St. Francis Cabrini Church, where St. Lucia is celebrated as the patron saint. He remembers attending the annual Santa Lucia Festival, a celebration of Italian heritage, and one of the oldest Catholic parades in the U.S. Volunteering alongside his grandfather, Joseph Salvatore Caniglia ‘29, a first-generation immigrant, left a lasting impression on him. "It was essential to our family identity," Jeremy reflected.
Born in 300 A.D., St. Lucia made a pilgrimage to St. Agatha’s tomb in Sicily to pray for her sick mother. After a divine encounter, she devoted her life to Christ and endured brutal persecution. "Her name means 'light,'” Jeremy explained, adding that her feast day on December 13, the darkest day of the year, symbolizes the light that follows. This inspiring story motivated Jeremy’s painting, which captures her sacrifice and devotion.
Regarding his artistic journey, Jeremy said, "Two years ago, I created a mock-up of this piece and presented it to Mayor Giuseppe Stefio of Carlentini, Italy. Shortly after, I faced health challenges that deepened my reflection on St. Lucia's beauty and purity." His painting portrays St. Lucia barefoot beneath an olive tree, symbolizing innocence and humility. The Egyptian-inspired dress, adorned with meaningful details and a Marian veil, captures her transformation from mortal to saint.
The painting is on display at the Church of Immaculate Conception in Carlentini, Italy, a fitting place given its significant altar dedicated to St. Lucia where her remains will be placed on December 26, 2024. "It feels incredible to have my art showcased alongside such revered pieces," he shared.
Jeremy emphasized the importance of connecting saints' stories with today's youth. "It's vital for them to understand these figures and their experiences," he said.
By sharing these narratives, young people can find inspiration in the saints' journeys and see why they remain examples of faith. Jeremy's artwork is both traditional and modern, ensuring that St. Lucia's legacy continues to inspire generations to come.
It's vital for them to understand these figures and their experiences.
MAKE A ONE-TIME OR MONTHLY RECURRING GIFT TODAY:
• $5,124,086 total tuition assistance dollars awarded in 2023-2024
• 54% of students received additional tuition assistance in 2023-2024
• 184 hours of retreats and outside class formation offered to students during their four years at Prep
• 75% of the senior class awarded at least one college scholarship (four-year average)
• Students scored 5.7 points above the national ACT average in the 2023-2024 school year (highest since 1990).
• Students attend Prep from 50 different ZIP codes and 70+ different sending schools.
• Students engage in community service at 35+ sites across the Omaha metro area.
“Creighton Prep is much more than a place to go to school and get an education. It’s a home, and you are providing a space where we discover what truly brings us joy.”
— Cam Newton ‘25
During December and this season of giving, please answer the call to greater love for our students, our school and our shared future by supporting the AMDG Fund. Your gift will have a direct impact, providing crucial tuition assistance and supporting academic programs, student services, athletics and campus ministry initiatives that make the Prep experience truly exceptional for every young man.
Your generosity is an investment that helps make a Prep education and experience possible for our students! Thank you!
In Christ’s Mission,
Fr. Matthew Spotts, SJ President
ATTENTION JUNIOR JAYS!
JOIN US FOR REUNION WEEKEND 2025!
Mark your calendars, dig out those yearbooks and prepare for a blast from the past! Join us for an epic celebration of nostalgia and camaraderie during Creighton Prep’s Reunion Weekend, June 6-7, 2025. Time for the “0’s and 5’s” to add to their journey as reunion classes and as Prep brothers.
SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS
• NEW THIS YEAR: The CP Car Show makes its reunion weekend debut! Bring your own pride and joy or just stop by to visit this unique Prep community event featuring dozens of classic cars.
• VOLUNTEER: As Men for Others, bring the strength of the Prep alumni community to one of the best-missioned nonprofits helping Omaha’s most in need.
• MEMORY LANE GALLERY: Enjoy a dedicated gallery showcasing the amazing journey you all shared together across classes and generations.
• ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Hear stories from classmates that inspire a renewed purpose to live out Prep’s mission in your own lives while hearing real-life examples of what reunions have meant to others.
• LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Prep trivia, special programming and more!!
PREP CONNECTS
Engage with fellow alumni and gear up for Reunion Weekend 2025 by creating your account on PrepConnects at www.PrepConnects.org! It’s the only online platform just for Prep alumni - join today and stay updated on all the latest happenings while networking with your fellow Jr. Jays.
THESAVEDATE JUNE 6-7,
2025
Reunion weekend for 0's and 5's!
RECONNECTION AND BROTHERHOOD
Reunion Weekend is a great time to reconnect with old friends, share unforgettable stories and make new memories that bring to life the familiar past. Whether you attend events on or off campus, you’ll have the opportunity to reminisce about the joys of classes, the accomplishments of activities and completing JUG time. Visit with invited teachers, coaches and Jesuits who gave special meaning to walking the hallways, late-night study sessions and cheering at Friday night games.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The entire weekend has something for everyone. Celebrate with your class on Friday, then come to school to enjoy a Saturday walk down memory lane with school tours, a special all-alumni class Mass and a fabulous plated dinner and reunion program to toast lives well-lived since your last time together.
HELP SPREAD THE WORD!
Share the date on social media, create a text string and let all of your friends know about this unforgettable weekend. Reconnect with the classmates who knew you best (and who can probably still quote your most embarrassing moments)! Dust off those letter sweaters, comb your hair and get ready for a weekend you can only experience in person.
As the saying goes “Be there or be square!” Make June 6-7, 2025 a weekend the “0’s and 5’s”—and Prep—will never forget!
FALL SPORTS
CROSS COUNTRY
FOOTBALL
Photo by Drew Balus ‘26 for the Jay Journal
Photo by Drew Balus ‘26 for the Jay Journal
Photo courtesy of Dan Tietjen
SPORTS NIGHT WITH KEVIN MC HALE A Night to Remember
The 32nd Annual Creighton Prep Sports Night on Wednesday, September 25 was an unforgettable event, featuring former NBA star Kevin McHale and ESPN's John Buccigross. Kevin, renowned for his exceptional basketball skills and iconic career with the Boston Celtics, shared insights into his journey, his teammates and their success together.
The event, a key fundraiser for the Prep's athletic department, drew over 1,000 attendees. During his remarks, Kevin discussed the unique camaraderie of the Celtics, recalling how easy it was to come off the bench with such a talented team. "To win a championship with that team and those guys was everything to me," he said. "We had a special bond, both on and off the court."
He also shared humorous stories about teammates Larry Bird and Nate Archibald (nicknamed “Tiny”). One particularly memorable story involved Nate offering Kevin his first-class seat on a flight. Kevin joked about learning to sleep diagonally in hotel beds but emphasized the gesture as a sign of the team's
camaraderie and support. "Tiny was a great teammate and tough player," Kevin said. "He always had my back."
Kevin's rookie season was a resounding success, contributing significantly to the Celtics' championship win. His experiences on and off the court helped establish him as one of the league's most promising young players and ultimately shaped the legendary player he became.
“Kevin's generosity was evident as he stayed to sign autographs for attendees long after the event concluded,” said Amy Knight, director of events at Creighton Prep. “He also took the time to chat with the basketball team and even sat down with students outside Circo Plaza for meaningful conversations."
Thanks to the support of our community, Sports Night raised over $170,000 for Creighton Prep Athletics. The funding will be used to purchase football helmets that improve player safety and new jerseys for our student-athletes.
HIGHLIGHTS from CAMPUS
Media Production Students Win Nebraska Broadcasters Association Award
Congratulations to Digital Media Adviser Mr. Matt Rasgorshek and his Media Production students who won a 2024 Nebraska Broadcasters Association Pinnacle Gold Award for “Best Sports Play-By-Play.”
The student media team consisted of Colton Alder ‘25, Mike Knockenhauer Jr. ‘25 and recent graduate Alex Tietjen ‘24 . The award was for their excellent play-by-play of a Jr. Jay basketball district final game during the 2023-2024 season.
Fr. Bob Tillman, SJ Honored by the Nebraska Coaches Association
Congratulations to former Creighton Prep cross country coach Fr. Bob Tillman, SJ on being honored by the Nebraska Coaches Association (NCA) with the Level IV Jerry Stine Family Milestone Award. The Level IV award is the highest award level bestowed on a recipient by the NCA.
During his 27 years as coach, Fr. Tillman’s teams at Prep won four Metro Conference titles and placed second six times. They also won nine district titles and finished runner-up 11 times. In addition, 22 of Fr. Tillman’s teams qualified for state and brought home championships in 1973, 2014 and 2023. They also finished in the top three on seven other occasions.
Daniel Wessling '25 Awarded the Dr. Philip and Ruthann Maschka Faithful Servant Scholarship
Congratulations to Daniel Wessling '25, this year’s recipient of the Dr. Philip and Ruthann Maschka Faithful Servant Scholarship.
This one-year scholarship is awarded annually to a Prep student who exemplifies the Creighton Prep Grad at Grad characteristic of being “religious” with an unwavering commitment to his faith.
Daniel is pictured with his mother Elizabeth and his father William.
Eight
Students
Named
Semifinalists in the 2025 National Merit ® Scholarship Program
Congratulations to the following eight seniors who were named as semifinalists in the 2025 National Merit® Scholarship Program:
Micha el Ayoub, Attila Csordas , Ryan Eichele, Joshua Mammen Jr. , Luke McGill, Oliver Troshynski, Edward Watson , and Daniel Wessling
The excellent performances by these students on the 2023 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) was a key factor in their selection as semifinalists. Once again, Prep had more semifinalists than any other private school in the state.
Those who reach the level of finalist in the program are expected to be named in February, then finalists will be considered for National Merit Scholarships that will be presented in the spring.
Three Seniors Named National Merit ® Commended Students
Congratulations to the following seniors who were named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit® Scholarship Program:
Joey DeGeorge, Jack Moore, and Matthew O’Meara .
The excellent performances by these students on the 2023 Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) was also a key factor in this designation.
Freshman Parker Cosimano Receives BBB Rising Community Champion Award
Freshman Parker Cosimano was honored for initiating a project aimed at raising awareness about scams targeting seniors.
As an 8th grader at St. Wenceslaus, Parker chose scams against seniors as the focus of a social justice essay. He was inspired by a video from influencer Mark Rober highlighting the prevalence of these scams and by knowing that his own grandma had been targeted.
After completing the essay, Parker wanted to make a bigger impact. He created a flyer, which he delivered to several nursing homes around town. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Midwest Plains took notice after KETV aired a story about his efforts. They partnered with Parker to optimize the flyer and distribute it to senior centers statewide. Since then, the BBB
has extended the flyer’s reach to Nebraska, Kansas and South Dakota.
To recognize his efforts, the BBB awarded Parker the inaugural Rising Community Champion award at the 2024 Torch Awards on Tuesday, September 24.
Prep Students Attend Building Bridges and Making Connections Summit
On Friday, September 27, a group of nine Prep students participated in the 2024 Building Bridges and Making Connections Summit, a high school diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) event sponsored by the Lozier Foundation.
The summit took place at the University of Nebraska Omaha and included over 100 students from both Omaha and Lincoln high schools. They engaged in discussions, activities and small group workshops designed to promote understanding and the appreciation of diverse perspectives within the school community. The students left feeling equipped with tools and strategies to advocate for themselves and others in pursuit of equity.
After the summit, the Prep students reported that they really enjoyed engaging with students from different schools, and learning and hearing different perspectives. 100% of them reported that the summit challenged them to think about DEI topics in a way they hadn't before. One student said, "If this is going to be a recurring kind of thing, please sign me up for as many of them as possible. I liked the message of sharing love and giving someone something to smile about!"
Prep Receives NSCA Designation Under Coach Clausen
The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) has designated Creighton Prep as a 2024 Strength of
America award recipient. This award recognizes Prep as having represented the gold standard in strength and conditioning programs under the leadership of Director of Strength and Conditioning, Coach Trent Clausen.
The four major categories measured were supervision, education, program and facilities. Selected from hundreds of eligible schools, Prep is recognized on the NSCA website as having achieved the Strength of America distinction.
17 Students Accepted Into Tri-M Music Honor Society
Congratulations to the following music students for their acceptance into Chapter #9462 of the Tri-M Music Honor Society:
William Alder ‘27, Jacob Bauer ‘26 , Peter Beyer ‘25, Isaac Bohlsen ‘27, Samuel Boje ‘28 , Porter Bryant ‘27, Jay Chesley ‘28, Liam Cowherd Richardson ‘27, Oliver Fangman ‘27, Matthew French ‘28 , Xavier Fuentes ‘28 , Willard Haynes ‘26 , Carson Hill ‘25, Daniel Paronable ‘27, Jake Reefe ‘28 , Elliot St. Germain ‘27 and Alexander Suarez Delgado ‘28.
These young men join thousands of students across the country, applying their talents and leadership abilities to build community through music-making in their schools and neighborhoods.
Pep Band Performs at Creighton University
The Creighton Prep pep band played at the Creighton University women's volleyball game on Friday, October 18 while the college students were out on school break. Our
Jr. Jays rocked D.J. Sokol Arena as the Bluejays defeated their Big East rival Xavier University in three quick sets.
Creighton Prep Hope Squad Attends EmPOWER Youth Summit
More than 30 Jr. Jays representing our Creighton Prep Hope Squad attended the EmPOWER Youth Summit, hosted by the Kim Foundation. The EmPOWER Youth Summit brings high school students together for a day of hope-filled connections and education on mental wellness, self-care and other topics — with the goal that students leave feeling better equipped to advocate for themselves and others.
Creighton Prep Signing Day
Creighton Prep held the Fall Signing Day ceremony on Wednesday, November 13 in the Smith Atrium. Congratulations to the following seven seniors who were honored as they signed their letters of intent to take their academic and athletic careers to the next level:
Adonis Bonar II , Wrestling, California Baptist University; Brody Brakke, Soccer, Creighton University; Logan Burchfiel , Baseball, Colorado School of Mines; Brody Ferguson , Trapshooting, Concordia University; John Lisec , Baseball, University of San Diego; Trinell Parker, Basketball, University of Central Missouri; Rylan Patterson , Golf, Doane University.
HERE THERE
1950’s
In June 2024, Don Kish ’56 celebrated his 30th anniversary as a deacon at his parish, Epiphany of the Lord, in Katy, Texas. He and wife Barbara also recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.
1960’s
On October 10, 2024, The Institute for New Economic Thinking and Cambridge University Press jointly announced the publication of the book “Edward A. Tenenbaum and the Deutschmark: How an American Jew Became the Father of Germany’s Postwar Economic Revival” by Carl-Ludwig Holtfrerich ‘60. Carl is also professor emeritus of economics at the John F. Kennedy Institute of North American Studies at Freie Universität Berlin.
John Spensieri ‘62 wrote in from San Francisco that he is serving as a board member for a local nonprofit there with a mission to support underserved students in their quest to be the first in their families to graduate college. The organization does this by mentoring young people over a 12-year period toward graduation.
1970’s
In 2024, the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) honored Ken Kontor ‘66 with the Boyd Epley Award for Lifetime Achievement, recognizing his dedicated service to the organization that he helped found. During his career in athletic performance, Ken served in a number of roles for the NSCA, including executive director.
Snell & Wilmer announced in June 2024 that attorney Bill Ojile ‘78 joined the firm’s Denver office as a special litigation and compliance partner. Bill’s prior legal experience includes work in telecommunications and higher education plus a partnership in the firm of Armstrong Teasdale LLP.
1990’s
For Nick Juliano ‘91, the president & CEO of Omaha nonprofit RADIUS, the spark toward a life devoted to serving others was ignited when he was a 14-yearold freshman at Prep, primarily because of the influence of the Jesuits and the lay faculty and staff.
“I saw these people that had been out in the world and lived life,” he said. “And whether it was in class, in being coached or in conversations about being a man for others and developing Catholic values, it was always rooted in this very practical reality that immediately made sense to me: that you’re a part of something bigger than yourself, which is a gift. And with that gift comes the responsibility to look at the world we live in, understand where people need help then find our role in providing that help.”
Early on, Nick considered different options for helping others before landing at Boys Town, where he worked for 23 years in a number of administrative roles up to and including advocacy and public policy. He noted, “That’s where I really
honed in on local, regional and national policy around juvenile justice, where the gaps were and how we improve our systems.”
He also began to understand the need for a place in Omaha for troubled youth with complex needs involving “serious legal charges, likely a mental health or substance abuse issue, and families suffering multi-generational trauma” that existing programs in the area were not able to address. In short, a place like RADIUS.
Today, Nick directs a RADIUS campus at 50th & Grand Avenue that includes living quarters, a school, a variety of services and a Charles Drew Health Center, where residents, their families and members of the larger northeast Omaha community get their behavioral and physical health needs met by providers who really understand the community and the social drivers of health.
When he has time away from work, Nick and his wife Christiana enjoy keeping up with their Prep son Ben Juliano ’27, who is having a great experience at the school that is both different and powerfully similar to Nick’s from years ago. “What he and I share is that sense of belonging,” he said, “of being bought into the culture and the worldview that you’re a part of something bigger, and that finding out how and where you want to serve those in need is super important.”
RECENT UPDATES FROM CREIGHTON PREP ALUMNI
1980’s
2000’s
Jeff Priborsky ‘81 and his wife Julie celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in November 2024. They live in the Houston, Texas area, where Jeff is retired after a long career with Shell Oil Products US.
Congratulations to Kyla and Art Clark ‘05, who welcomed Nico David to their family on May 25, 2024.
On August 3, 2024, one of the best student-athletes in Bellevue University history, JeLani Johnson ‘08, was inducted into the Bellevue University Athletics Hall of Fame. JeLani was a standout basketball player for the Bruins and finished his career among the all-time school leaders in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals. At the event to celebrate JeLani (at center with yellow tie) were (L-R) Brad Burks ‘00, past parent Russ Kreikemeier, Andy King ‘06, Zane Hinkel ‘08, Head Basketball Coach at Prep Josh Luedtke ‘90 and John Karhoff ‘09
2010’s
Drew Hansen ‘19 graduated in May 2024 with a Master of Science in business from the Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian University, and he works as a corporate strategy analyst with Unleashed Brands in Bedford, Texas.
Tariq Khan ‘19 works as network engineering manager at Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) and reports that his peer server infrastructure manager is Luke Herdzina ‘98.
2020’s
Prep alumni can be found almost everywhere, including Charles Schwab Field where the grounds crew this past year for the College World Series included Sam Butler ’22 , Myles Jackson ’24, Max Mullin ’22 , Zach Ryan ’22 , Alex Tietjen ’24 and Nate Wiedenfeld ’22 . Alex reports that his brother Cal Tietjen ’21 was on the crew for a few years and that Cal, Nate and Zach have won the last three crew MVP awards. Pictured L-R are Nate, Alex and Zach.
Trevor West ‘20 recently started as a sales associate at Shelter Insurance, selling auto, home and life insurance.
Manny Bakou ‘23 is a student at the University of Nebraska Omaha and developed an interest in aviation while he was a student at Prep in the Loyola Scholars program. On Sunday, September 8, 2024, he performed his first solo flight!
Long before he entered high school, Tyler Reidy ‘22 thought about what it would be like to be a broadcaster. “But I never thought it was something I could do realistically for a career until I took a Media Production class my sophomore year with (Digital Media Adviser) Matt Rasgorshek.”
Soon enough, Tyler and Brendan Preisman ‘22 were at the microphones, calling a mid-September matchup between Prep and Millard North. “Then it became our thing for basically all the football and basketball games,” he noted. “We also did some baseball and soccer junior and senior year.”
His favorite memories from that time include broadcasting the 2020-2021 basketball season in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tyler recalled, “So many people were so kind to share with us how much it meant to them that we were covering the games. It’s those moments that stand out for me when I look back.”
Now, he’s practicing his craft as a junior at the University of Notre Dame, where he is currently the sports editor of The Observer, the Notre Dame student newspaper, and one of the sports directors at WVFI, the on-campus radio station run by students and where he broadcasts Notre Dame football games.
Tyler is also the main play-by-play broadcaster for Notre Dame hockey and was recently named to the 2025 watch list for the Jim Nantz Award sponsored by the Sportscasters Talent Agency of America. The award is presented each year to the top sports broadcaster in college.
With all that said, he sees a lot of similarities between his high school and college experiences. “Prep sets you up really well for an environment like Notre Dame,” he remarked. “It’s not just the high academic standards either. There’s a larger purpose behind everything they do, and the community and traditions at both places are just off the charts.”
CATCHING UP WITH …
TYLER REIDY ‘22 & BRENDAN PREISMAN ‘22
Just a couple of hours to the west of Tyler Reidy ‘22 and Notre Dame via Interstate 90 is Northwestern University, where Tyler's Prep classmate Brendan Preisman ‘22 is also involved in a myriad of sports journalism activities. Much like Tyler, he, too, recalled an early interest in broadcasting, the break that he and Tyler got in calling games as sophomores, and how Prep was a key springboard to where he is now.
“Tyler is one of the most professional, hardworking broadcasters I’ve ever met,” Brendan said. “And that pushed me quite a bit to try to match that professionalism, to match that work ethic.”
Today, Brendan is a co-editor-in-chief and writes for Inside NU, the SB Nation site that covers Northwestern athletics. He also broadcasts for the Northwestern News Network, does radio broadcasts and podcasting for WNUR 89.3 FM from their studios on campus, and livestreams broadcasts of Northwestern sports on Big Ten Plus.
Highlights for him have included calling the NCAA women’s lacrosse championship match two years in a row and covering the Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament in Minneapolis. Along the way, he’s learned a lot, too.
“In my opinion, the best broadcasters have a distinctive style, but they don’t let that overwhelm the game,” Brendan noted. “They have a sense of the moment, and they do their best to give the viewer that in-stadium or in-arena experience, even if they’re watching on TV.”
He also remarked, “I'm extremely grateful for the experiences I had at Prep, because they made the transition to Northwestern, not only academically but broadcast-wise, so much easier.”
A FATHER-SON BOND ROOTED IN FAITH
At Creighton Prep, faith plays an integral role in the daily lives of our young men. For Ethan Abboud '26 and his father, Fred Abboud '99, this spiritual connection has shaped their relationship and deepened their faith journeys both at home and within the Prep community.
Ethan credits his parents for his profound faith. “I wouldn't be in this relationship with God without them,” he reflected. His father, a deacon in the Archdiocese of Omaha, has been instrumental in nurturing this devotion. “Having a dad who's a deacon led me to where I am today,” Ethan shared.
Fred's own faith journey began at St. Gerald's parish in Ralston and was significantly influenced by his wife, a woman of deep prayer and devotion. Her inspiration encouraged him to cultivate a closer relationship with God.
Their unique roles—Ethan as an altar server and Fred as a deacon—have forged a special closeness. “We wake up early for Mass and share that sacred space together.”
Ethan explained, “It’s something that has bonded us in a unique way.” This shared experience not only allows them to serve God, but it also fosters discussions about homilies and the spiritual lessons learned from the Mass.
The experience of sharing Mass together at Creighton Prep holds a special significance for both Ethan and Fred. “It's a gift to serve alongside my son," Fred said. “The Jesuit community has created an environment where we can grow together in faith.” For Ethan, serving at Mass is a cherished experience that deepens his appreciation for the Jesuit tradition and the values it promotes. Inspired by his experiences as an altar server and his faith journey at Prep and at home, Ethan is considering a vocation to the priesthood.
For both Ethan and Fred, faith extends beyond the walls of the church. “School is a significant way I see God,” Ethan noted, as he shared how his experiences in hockey and academics reflect a divine presence. For Fred, faith is deeply intertwined with family life. “I see God in everything my kids do,” he reflected. With seven children ranging from 4 to 16 years old, Fred added that he recognizes the importance of patience and humility, often finding inspiration in Ethan’s hockey accomplishments.
When asked about advice for other fathers and sons seeking to deepen their faith together, Fred emphasized the importance of openness and shared experiences. “Pray together,” he suggested. “It’s fundamental to building a relationship rooted in faith.” He also encourages families to engage in simple acts of service, such as participating in community events that can offer opportunities for reflection and connection.
Ethan and Fred Abboud's journey demonstrates the power of faith in shaping relationships and community. Through shared experiences at Creighton Prep, their bond continues to grow, rooted in a deep commitment to serving God and each other.
Ethan '26 and Fred Abboud '99 with Archbishop George J. Lucas.
Ethan '26 and Fred Abboud '99 in 2017, when Ethan was in grade school.
Ethan '26 and Fred Abboud '99 in the Skinner Chapel at Prep, 2024.
THE LOYOLA DINNER OF HONOR & DISTINCTION
Paying Tribute to Men and Women for
Others.
A large crowd of well over 300 people gathered in the Sullivan Center on Wednesday night, October 23, to honor five outstanding individuals who have embodied the values and spirit of the Jesuit mission.
The 28th Annual Loyola Dinner of Honor & Distinction began with a welcome, opening remarks and a prayer from Creighton Prep President Fr. Matt Spotts, SJ, who also introduced the honorees with a few examples of the ways that each of them had chosen to respond to the love of God by using their “gifts and talents in generous service to the world.”
After a sumptuous meal provided by Abraham Catering, the honorees had the opportunity to share a few words of appreciation during the awards presentation . J. Terry Macnamara ‘54 , remarked on his long association with Prep and how impressed he was by the Prep students of today. Marsha Stuva reflected on her husband, Dave Stuva ‘74†, and the joy that he received from his 42-year teaching career at Prep. Susan Coyle Naatz shared her journey to success as a lay minister in the Church, and Drew Gerken ’97 revealed how his work as a student in Operation Others inspired his desire to help his community through the creation of The Furniture Project. In addition, Fr. Don Shane ‘60 provided his observations on the Jesuits he’s known throughout his life and the influence and importance of the Prep education that he received.
Emcee Travis Justice did a great job throughout the program, and Fr. Bob Tillman, SJ offered the closing prayer to end another superb night in the history of this special event.
Congratulations to the 2024 Loyola honorees!
OF ST. IGNATIUS
Honors a person who demonstrates exemplary service for the Greater Glory of God (AMDG). The sword symbolizes the unique spiritual virtues associated with St. Ignatius of Loyola: courage, loyalty and service to the Catholic Church.
Awarded to Fr. Don Shane ‘60
HALL OF FAME
Commends individuals who have displayed distinguished service to Prep as teachers, staff, coaches, board members, alumni, parents or friends. The primary consideration is to honor individuals who have provided direct service to Prep and who are examples of living a life of faith and service.
Awarded to J. Terry Macnamara ‘54 and Dave Stuva ‘74†
ANCILLA DOMINI
Given 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.
Awarded to Susan Coyle Naatz
ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR
Recognizes an individual who embodies the values Prep aspires to instill in its graduates through a commitment to living a life devoted to serving others.
Awarded to Drew Gerken ‘97
SWORD
JOIN US TO MAKE BASH 2025 A SUCCESS!
SAVE THE DATE: MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND THE 55TH ANNUAL BASH ON
SATURDAY,
APRIL 26 IN THE HEIDER CENTER AT CREIGHTON PREP.
BASH 2025 is right around the corner, and we need your help to make it a memorable night in support of Creighton Prep students! This annual fundraiser not only brings the Prep community together for a spectacular evening in the Heider Center, but it also helps raise crucial funds for tuition assistance.
Prep provided more than $4.5 million in financial aid this year to support more than half of our young men, and a successful BASH each year is a key contributor to that total. So, every contribution to BASH—whether that be time, talent or treasure—directly impacts our students and helps bridge the gap between tuition costs and the full cost of a Prep education.
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO GET INVOLVED:
VOLUNTEER
Join our team to help with setup, event-day roles or postevent breakdown. Volunteers play a vital role, whether it’s decorating, assisting guests or simply lending a helping hand wherever needed.
AUCTION DONATION
Have a unique item, vacation home or experience? Auction items make a big difference! We’re seeking gift certificates, travel vouchers, vacation rentals, sporting event and concert tickets, themed gift baskets, collectibles and other memorable items. Every item donated is a step toward helping us reach our financial goals.
SPONSORSHIP
Premier Partner sponsorships come with a number of benefits, including a table for 10 and advertising for your business in our digital catalog. The catalog is widely shared and viewed online, and sponsorships ensure visibility while showing your commitment to a Prep education.
WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS:
BASH is more than an evening of celebration. It’s a testament to Prep’s commitment to educational excellence for 1,000 young men, helping keep tuition affordable for families and supporting our mission of forming Men for Others. Every dollar raised through BASH goes toward financial assistance for our students, allowing us to continue building a community that embraces opportunity for all.
The BASH 2025 executive committee includes Amber and Brian Fahey '94 , Brady and Ryan Gibson '93, Abbie Raikes Gouttierre and Adam Gouttierre '89, Kara and Tom Kelley '94 , Beth and Ed McGill '85, Lisa and Mike Meridith, and Elen and Justin Shanahan '97
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO GET INVOLVED, CONTACT AMY KNIGHT AT AKNIGHT@CREIGHTONPREP.ORG OR VISIT WWW.CREIGHTONPREP.ORG/BASH.
RAFFLE TICKET
Buy a BASH 2025 raffle ticket from Creighton Prep for a chance to win cash prizes! Starting on Sunday, January 26 at CreightonPrep.org/BASHRaffle, you can purchase a raffle ticket with a debit card for $100, three for $250, seven for $500 or 15 for $1,000.
BID ON AUCTION PACKAGES
Watch for the kickoff to our online auction on Monday, April 21, and bid on a wide range of great auction packages and individual items.
ATTEND THE 55TH ANNUAL BASH
Your presence at BASH 2025 on Saturday, April 26 for the dinner, the raise-the-paddle-to-donate appeal, the live auction bidding and the drawing for raffle winners is another important way to support Prep’s mission!
PLEASE REMEMBER
ALUMNI
William J. Book ‘60 (10/10/2022), brother of Thomas ‘54† , Gerald ‘58†
Archie J. Boscardin ‘43
brother of Richard ‘38†, father of Stephen ‘69, James ‘73
Richard E. Bozarth ‘53
father of Mark ‘84, grandfather of Sean ‘08, Taylor ‘11, Eric Snoza ’97, Adam Snoza ‘03
William J. Cole ‘60
Thomas A. Doll ‘62
Robert L. Fitzsimmons ’77 (12/13/2023), brother of Timothy ‘82
Michael J. Flynn ‘73 son of John ‘49†, brother of James ‘75, Timothy ‘76, Daniel ‘85
Warren L. Fortezzo ’66, (03/27/2024) brother of Jeffrey ‘68
Thomas N. Glenn, Jr ‘75 (02/27/2022)
Joseph W. Grant ‘74 son of John ‘38†, father of Thomas ‘08, Daniel ‘09, brother of John ‘69†, Timothy ‘79†
Sherdale L. Green ‘94 father of Sherdale ‘23
Klemens E. Gustafson ‘53
Philip L. Haller ‘66 brother of Robert ‘65†, James ‘70
Timothy M. Halloran ‘65
Martin P. Hannigan ‘59
John W. Heaston ‘88 son of William ‘61†
Daniel B. Higgins ‘55 brother of John ‘50 †, Michael ‘59†
James J. Hubschman ‘60, grandfather of James Quinn ‘22, Joseph Quinn ‘24, John Quinn ‘25
James J. Jaeke ‘84
Paul J. Kaufmann ‘60 brother of John ‘58†
William W. Kenney ‘50 (02/03/2024)
brother of Raymond ‘38†, father of Stephen ‘74, Robert ‘84, grandfather of Jacob ‘17, Ryan ‘20
Paul R. Kenworthy ‘60
Laurence P. Kerrigan ‘50
Edward J. Kros ‘60 brother of William ‘48†, James ‘58†, father of Jeffrey ‘86, Donald ‘87, Steven ‘90
Gerald J. Kube ‘50
John C. Kuhlman ‘86
Michael R. Lappe ‘89
Robert G. Paulsen ’77 son of Robert ‘51
James J. Phalen ‘57
James W. Martin ‘68 brother of Paul ‘61, Michael ‘72, William ‘73
H. Arthur Mayer ’52
Patrick K. Milliken ‘90 brother of Brian ‘86†
Timothy M. O’Brien ‘70 brother of Patrick ‘60 †
James J. O’Neil II ‘62 son of James ‘37†
Gary E. Ross ’65 (04/19/2024)
Carroll D. Satterfield ‘50
William L. Steele IV ‘86 son of William ‘61†
C. Scott Thompson ‘82 brother of Michael ‘83, Paul ‘86†
James F. Tomsheck ‘71
Bernie R. Venditte ‘99
Aloysius J. Ward ‘54 brother of J. Daniel ‘55†, Thomas ‘56† , Michael ‘62†
Herman D. Weist ‘53 brother of John ‘54, James ‘61, Thomas ‘69, father of Herman ‘79, David ‘82, Joseph ‘83, John ‘86, Daniel ‘91, grandfather of Paul ‘19, Maximilian Kalkowski ‘23
John L. Wiley Jr. ’56 brother of T. Michael ‘61, father of Scott ‘85, Jeffrey ‘93, grandfather of Chadwick ‘13, Nicholas ‘26
James J. Woodbury ‘58 brother of John ‘56†, father of Timothy ‘87
John M. York ‘71 brother of Richard ‘61†
WIVES
Mary Jo Coffey wife of Richard ‘55, mother of Patrick ‘86, John ‘88, grandmother of Michael Brooks ‘16, Matthew Coffey ‘17
Fansie M. Connelly wife of Thomas Prusa ‘79
Dianne D. Fitzgerald wife of James ‘64
Judith S. Harvey daughter of Ivo 1923†, wife of Richard ‘56† , grandmother of Peter Kizer ’17, James Heldridge ’20, William Kizer ’20, Charles Kizer ‘22
Marilynn J. Herek widow of James ‘57†, mother of John ‘84
Marjorie A. Kozal wife of William ‘50 †, mother of Michael ‘80, David ‘81, grandmother of Robert Leddy ‘13
Diane G. Langston wife of Dennis ‘71
Sharon A. Lazzaretti wife of Anthony ‘57†, mother of Anthony ‘81, Victor ‘82
Margaret E. “Peggy” Langdon widow of Frederick ‘41†, mother of John ‘77, Fred ‘78, Mark ‘80
Janet C. Lechner wife of James ‘77
Joan E. Murphy (11/30/23) wife of John ‘54
Bonnie J. Pryor wife of John ‘49†, mother of Michael ‘78
Betty F. Quinn wife of James ‘55†, sister of Robert Fitzgerald ‘53† , James Fitzgerald ‘53†, mother of James ‘80, Sean ‘81, Kevin ‘86, grandmother of Johnathan Weber ‘12, James ‘22, Ryan ‘23, Talton ‘23, Joseph ‘24, Peter ‘24, John ‘25
Rita Ruth Safranek widow of Charles ‘52†
Karen C. Sall widow of Michael ‘65†, grandmother of Nicholas ‘20, Luke ‘22, Michael ‘24, Vincent ‘26
Lynn S. Smith (01/10/2024) wife of Jerald ‘67
Rita R. Sobetsk wife of Edmund ‘46†, mother of Peter ‘72, Matthew ‘77, Daniel ‘81, grandmother of Jeffrey ‘04, John ‘13
Amelia J. Tritz wife of Charles ‘54
FATHERS
Elmer W. Adams father of E. Stephen ‘71†, Mark ‘73
Henry C. Annis father of Franklin ‘99
James E. DuBé father of Michael ‘89
John C. Cernech (12/1/2023) father of Michael ‘87
Jason E. Efaw (03/16/2024) father of Jack ‘23
Joseph G. Engelbert father of Christopher ‘89†, Brian ‘91
Mohammad R. Farivari father of Justin ‘01, Kenny ‘04, Paul ‘09
Ted L. Hanna father of James ‘72†, Michael ‘73†, grandfather of Steven ‘11
Harold F. Hollins father of Trevor ‘98, Gregory ‘01
Clair L. Leise father of Michael ‘96, grandfather of Jacob Boor ‘21
Thomas L. Mailander father of Nate ‘96
Michael J. McCarthy father of Jay ‘05
Francis J. McGovern father of James ‘82, grandfather of Matthew ‘19, Christopher ‘21
Ted J. Mikulicz Jr. father of Timothy ‘84
Dean Mueller brother of Randy ‘72, Kelly ‘75†, Jerry ‘78† , Rick ’83, Mark ‘85, father of Alexander ‘02, grandfather of Gabriel Brennan ‘18, Grant Ruma ‘25, Allen Pirsch ‘27, Maxwell Pirsch ‘27, Nolan ‘27
Deane K. Munro father of Mark ’72, Steven ‘74†, Kevin ‘81, grandfather of Edward Powers ‘08, Jacob Linden ‘11, John Powers ‘12
Brendan D. Murray father of B. Patrick ‘81
Jack L. Ortmeyer father of Jeffrey ‘88
Wayne R. Padrnos father of Jon ‘98
Paul F. Peters father of Christopher ‘92
Michael J. Quinn son of James ‘49†, father of M. Benjamin ‘12
Terry W. Sherman father of Zachary ‘05
Michael F. Sorrell father of James ‘77, William ‘80, John ‘82, Michael ‘84, grandfather of Blake ‘03
Michael W. Steigleder father of Andrew ‘92, Zachary ‘03, Thomas ‘05
Jerome J. Sund father of Jerome ‘03
Frederick L. Totten father of James ‘94
Phuoc H. Tran father of Tri ‘86, Thuc ‘91, Tin ‘95, grandfather of Andrew ‘25, Benjamin Clausen ‘26, Tucker Clausen ‘28, Thuc ‘28
MOTHERS
Berniece A. Adams mother of William ‘70, Michael ‘74, Timothy ‘81
Genevieve Bosiljevac mother of Robert ‘61
Diane K. Constantino mother of Joseph ‘87, Tony ‘89, Nicholas ‘96, grandmother of Anthony ‘12, Nathan Ritterling ‘19, Vincent ‘26
Elizabeth A. Costanzo mother of Michael ‘71
Rita R. Costello mother of Timothy ‘76
Elaine M. Cotton mother of Jonathan ‘00
Elizabeth J. DeWall mother of Marc ‘85
Gail L. DiDonato
mother of Charles ‘88, grandmother of Charles ‘14, Robert ‘16, Thomas ‘21, Samuel ‘24
Elnora J. Dougherty mother of Duane ‘80, Daniel ‘90, grandmother of Patrick ‘00, Phillip ‘01
Mary Anne Dworak
mother of Paul ‘71, Jerome ‘72, Walter ‘80, grandmother of Cale Dineen ‘12, Daxton ‘12, Jeffrey Albrecht ‘13
Celeste A. Earl mother of Rex ‘89
Georgia C. Ebel
mother of John ‘75, Norbert ‘81†, grandmother of Jonathan McDermott ‘03, Benjamin Burton ‘04, , Matthew McDermott ‘05, Christopher Burton ‘06, Peter Burton ’09, Robert McDermott ‘11, William McDermott ‘25, great grandmother of Ignatius Vogel ‘25
Pauline N. Frodyma mother of Ted ‘69, grandmother of Nicholas Meyers ‘06
Barbara J. Goodrich
mother of Christopher ‘98, Nathaniel ‘05, Benjamin ‘07†
Rita Hower
mother of John ‘83, Joseph ‘84, Timothy ‘85, William ‘90, Daniel ‘91, Matthew ‘93, grandmother of Alexander ‘14, Benjamin ‘16, Noah Welchans ‘18
Frances A. Jensen mother of Michael ‘86, David ‘88, grandmother of Colton ‘27
Patricia A. Kobza mother of Timothy ‘80, Jeffrey ‘81, grandmother of Benjamin Jackson ‘99, Bernard Jackson ‘02† , Patrick Jackson ‘08
To notify Creighton Prep of the passing of a Prep community member, contact Brandis Adams at BAdams@CreightonPrep.org or (402) 548-3804.
Harry A. Jordan
October 14, 1943 – October 10, 2024
February 25, 1935 – May 8, 2024
Eleanor E. Krause mother of Paul ‘73, John ‘76, Raymond ‘83, grandmother of Philip ‘18
Elizabeth J. Krupa mother of Paul ‘71
Caroline Larsen mother of Hans ‘08
Doris M. London mother of Ted ‘87
Rosemarie A. Mailliard mother of Michael ‘72, Mark ‘74, James ‘79
Roberta D. McCampbell mother of Matthew ‘95
Mary Jean McGill mother of Craig ‘74, Timothy ‘77, Paul ‘83
Susan L. Reiman-Garland mother of Patrick ’98
Rosemary Rogers mother of J. Thomas ‘72, Richard ‘75, Timothy ‘78, grandmother of David Mullin ‘93, Andrew Mullin ‘98, John Mullin ‘03, Alex ‘12, great grandmother of Maxwell Mullin ‘22
Ardythe L. Salerno mother of Michael ‘71, Mark ‘76
Vem R. Salestrom mother of Jaymes ‘88, grandmother of Parker ‘24
Rosemary Synowiecki mother of Robert ‘68
Harry A. Jordan will be remembered by his art and architecture students as a teacher dedicated to excellence, whose more than three decades of service to Prep left a lasting impression on all those who were fortunate enough to be in his classes.
In those classes, they learned the finer points of creating works of art on paper, on canvas and via three-dimensional models of homes and buildings that were oftentimes beyond what they could have imagined.
Elizabeth C. Spitzenberger mother of Joseph ‘86, grandmother of David ‘19, Michael ‘21
Barbara A. Walsh mother of R. John ‘74, Richard ‘76
Patricia M. Walz mother of Thomas ‘80, Michael ‘82, Jim ‘87, grandmother of Michael ‘03, Christian ‘14, Noah ‘16, Dexter Schincke ‘19
Julie A. Warner mother of John Ciaccio ‘02
Ruth A. Welborn mother of Mark ‘79, Michael ‘80
Mary E. Wessling mother of Sean ‘84, Michael ‘86, Patrick ‘91
CHILDREN
Justin L. Cooper son of Anthony Maida ‘73, brother of Anthony Maida ‘08, Carl Maida ‘09
Lennix R. Dacy daughter of Jill and Byron ‘05
Robert W. Shechinger son of Urban ‘68†
FACULTY/STAFF
Harry A. Jordan
Fr. Theodore M. Kalamaja, SJ ‘53 brother of James ‘59†
Under his leadership, student artwork became more visible around the school, not only through posters and art shows but eventually through decorations for Mini-School Night (now Curriculum Night), Open House and the annual BASH fundraiser.
In addition to teaching, Harry helped with technical direction on school plays and served as faculty moderator of the chess club. He retired from Prep in 2010, after which the yearbook staff devoted an entire page to him in his honor.
Many students at Prep from the late 1960’s to the early 1980’s will remember Fr. Theodore M. Kalamaja, SJ '53, a Creighton family descendant who taught courses as varied as Greek, Latin and theology while seemingly always on the recruiting trail for the cross country program, extolling the virtues of the sport to any students who showed interest.
Among the many highlights of his cross country coaching career was leading Prep to the Class A state title in 1974 and molding a
young and experienced 1981 team – his final one at Prep – into a district champion that finished a surprising fourth at the state meet.
After teaching and coaching at his high school alma mater, Fr. Kalamaja went on to spend nearly 30 years in prison ministry in California and Louisiana before retiring. In recognition of his great service in the Society of Jesus, the campus ministry office in the Lannon Learning Commons now bears his name.
Fr. Theodore M. Kalamaja, SJ '53