The Collegiate - Winter 2020

WINTER 2020

Freshmen from the Montana Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Jamerson Lazyboy and Brayds Vielle, are living with a host family, and playing freshman basketball. At Christmastime, two relatives visited the boys, and accompanied them home for the holiday break. Read more on page 4.

On the cover:

Jamerson Lazyboy and Brayds Vielle (right) are with Brayds’ aunt, Jolene Doroach, and mom, Sharon Bennett, before the freshman game against Hamtramck on Dec. 20. Photo by Detroit Red Wings photographer Dave Reginek.

At left: Brayds Vielle in the freshman game vs. University of Detroit Jesuit.

Blackfeet Students..........................................................4 Alumni Spotlight..........................................................20 Advancement News........................................................6

Alumni News...............................................................21

Whatever Happened To..................................................9

Events............................................................................31

Making a Difference....................................................12

Athletic News...............................................................32

Around De La Salle......................................................15

In Memoriam................................................................34

Admissions News.........................................................19

IDENTIFICATION STATEMENT • THE COLLEGIATE • WINTER 2019-2020 Statement of Frequency: Four Times Per Year Published by De La Salle Collegiate Advancement Office 14600 Common Road, Warren, MI 48088 Phone: 586-778-3356 Web: www.delasallehs.com Photos provided by Bill Roose and Kevin Fitzhenry President.............................................................................................................................................................................. John M. Knight President Emeritus...........................................................................................................................Brother Robert Carnaghi FSC, SJ ‘48 Principal............................................................................................................................................................................ Nathan Maus ‘99 Vice President Marketing and Communications........................................................................................................................ Bill Roose Major Gift Officer....................................................................................................................................................................... Greg Esler Director of Alumni Relations............................................................................................................................................Dennis Koch ‘94 Director of Alumni Relations Emeritus.........................................................................................................John C. Monigold BFSC, ‘66 Director of St. Joe’s Alumni Activities............................................................................................ Brother Patrick McNally FSC, SJ ‘55 Director of Annual Fund......................................................................................................................................................Amy Seiferlein Managing Editor The Collegiate........................................................................................................................................... Vicki Granger Director of Digital Marketing......................................................................................................................................Kevin Fitzhenry ‘03 Director of Admissions................................................................................................................................................ Steve Laudicina ‘10 Executive Assistant to Advancement.................................................................................................................................Linda Fraschetti

De La Salle Collegiate Letter from the Editor Dedication. The word describes several of the people highlighted in this issue. • John Towles, whose Woods Foundation provides tuition assistance to students from the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Montana. • Gary Buslepp, associated with De La Salle during four decades, and the 2020 Christian Brothers Dinner Honoree. • Mike Jolly and Doug McKay, recognized by their coaching peers state-wide and nationally for their excellence. • Mike Glasgow, Ed Carolan, and Bert Bondi, alumni in positions of leadership in the arts, business, and sports entertainment. • Dan Loepp, who inspired seniors at the annual 1926 Society breakfast. • Brother Jerome Stevens, still revered long after his retirement. • The numerous alumni who spent the day at De La Salle in January for Career Day, inspiring many students to consider career options. • And, sadly, in our In Memoriam section, Brother Gabe Fagan and John Schmid, longtime faculty members with deep roots at De La Salle. These tremendous role models set the stage for our current students. • Will Smythe, who figured out the best way to make use of his used sports equipment. • National Honor Society members, who worked with the non-profit Motor City Mitten Mission to provide plastic mats for the homeless. • Longtime supporter and benefactor Bill Fox who passed away a few days ago. Bill’s generosity to the school, and support of the Lasallian Mission, inspired many of his classmates, and other alumni. • And the entire school - students, faculty, and staff, who worked together to provide food and gifts for 37 families in the Adopt-a-Family program. The dedication of our faculty produces results. Recently, De La Salle was ranked among the top 13 percent of the nation’s public and private high schools and honored as a 2020 Best STEM school. The achievements in this issue are because of YOU, our dedicated alumni, families and friends of De La Salle Collegiate, who support academic excellence, and enable over half of our students to receive tuition assistance and experience a Lasallian Catholic education. Your dedication, as we head toward 2026 and a centennial celebration, is a living embodiment of the motto: Builders of Boys. Makers of Men.

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De La Salle Collegiate Blackfeet freshmen make De La Salle hoops history Although freshmen Brayds Vielle and Jamerson Lazyboy are 1,700 miles from their Montana homes, they were already familiar with Lasallian teachings before walking in the door for freshmen orientation last August. The boys attended the De La Salle Blackfeet School from fourth to eighth grade on their Indian reservation in Browning. The school was established by the Midwest District of the Christian Brothers in 2001. The Browning area is one of the poorest in the country, with the attendant problems of poverty including chronic unemployment, alcohol and substance abuse, and welfare dependency, along with one of the highest high school dropout rates in Montana. Seventy percent of the students are raised by an adult other than their parents. De La Salle Collegiate began a relationship with the Blackfeet School in May 2016, with a team of International Baccalaureate students spending a week in Montana. Another team of IB students and teachers returned four months later. The IB program has sent teams of students to the reservation in each of the last four fall seasons. To date, three other Blackfeet students have attended De La Salle Collegiate. Their attendance has been made possible by a generous sponsor who offers tuition assistance to interested boys from the reservation. Lazyboy and Vielle began thinking about the possibility of attending De La Salle while seventh graders. Their parents were enthusiastic about the opportunity. “I was lonesome for home at first,” Vielle said. “But also felt at home instantly because DLSBS and De La Salle Collegiate share the same Lasallian teachings. I made the decision to attend De La Salle Collegiate to better my future, and in my time here I’ve had the opportunity to know the brotherhood they share.”

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“It’s just a whole different space,” Lazyboy said. “I moved in with a family I never even met before and it was hard at first. However, I knew all the prayers and expectations of a Lasallian school. I’m so happy to have the opportunity. De La Salle Collegiate has a lot of connections in the outside world that can help me in the future.” Although they knew only two plays before trying out for the Pilots’ freshman basketball team, both impressed the coaches. The two are the first Blackfeet Indian tribe students to make a basketball team - at any level - in De La Salle history. The pair were the top distance runners at their grade school, and this fall, they ran cross country. In fact, Vielle earned his varsity letter, with a personal best time of 17 minutes, 59 seconds. Both are adjusting to high school, though they have found challenges with going from a rural-area school to one in an urban setting. So when they saw more than 50 freshmen in the Bill Fox Gymnasium for basketball tryouts, they were a bit overwhelmed with the experience. Assistant coach Brendan Johnson saw their potential. “They are always smiling, and are fast learners,” Johnson said. “They have earned their places on the team. They have fit right in.” Lazyboy and Vielle are living with the Hertel family in Grosse Pointe Woods. The Hertels’ older son, Brendan graduated in May 2019, and is at Albion; younger son Colin is a junior. The family had never thought about being a host family, but responded to an email Admissions Director Steve Laudicina sent last year seeking host families

De la salle collegiate Generous foundations provide tuition assistance For the past few years, the Woods Foundation has provided tuition assistance for boys from the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning, Montana. During the 2019-2020 school year, four students are enrolled at De La Salle. John Towle Jr., foundation member and father-in-law to DLS teacher Dave Dudus, along with Dave’s son Noah, who also serves on the foundation board, were at De La Salle to meet with the group. They were joined by DLS President John M. Knight, Greg Esler, major gifts director, and Marta Rhea-Johnson, diversity director. Sam and Nada Simon, who established the Simon Foundation, have also begun providing tuition assistance for the Blackfeet Reservation students during the 2019-2020 school year. The Foundation also supports the Downtown Detroit Boxing Gym, and several DLS students have benefitted from their generosity.

Front Row, right to left Noah Dudus, Blackfeet students Brayds Vielle, Mark “Tanot” Devereaux, Jamez Michell, and Jamerson Lazyboy.

Back row, right to left Marta Rhea-Johnson, Greg Esler, John Towle Jr., David Dudus, and President John M. Knight.

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Advancement News The 1926 Society breakfast a booming success Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan President and CEO Dan Loepp addressed the Class of 2020 at De La Salle Collegiate’s second annual 1926 Society Breakfast held at the Detroit Athletic Club in November. Loepp, a 1975 alumnus, spoke to the group about the importance of character, Lasallian Catholic education, and philanthropy. “This was a great experience and opportunity for our senior class to hear firsthand about a Pilot who has lived a life of hard work, faith, and philanthropy, encapsulating the values of St. John Baptist de La Salle,” said Dennis Koch, director of alumni relations.

Dan Loepp (center) is joined by Student Council officers Ryan Drake, Noah Cole, Joe Opolski, and Jarod Amparo.

An eastsider who attended Guardian Angels Grade School in Detroit, Loepp followed in his older brothers’ footsteps when he attended De La Salle. He cited his father purposely moving the family back to Detroit so his sons could attend De La Salle, and then enduring long commutes to Wyandotte for his job, just so the Loepp boys could attend the all-boys school. Loepp himself was an active student, participating in school musicals among other activities, before heading to Wayne State University for both his bachelor’s and

master’s degrees. He served in Lansing as an aide and chief of staff to former state representative Curtis Hertel. Following the values which De La Salle strives to instill in its students, Loepp has volunteered for numerous non-profit organizations in the Detroit area in an effort to enrich the community around him. He is the Executive Committee Chairman of the Downtown Detroit Partnership Board, a nonprofit that works to strengthen Detroit through engagement, development, and programs. He’s also a director on the board of the Greater Detroit Chamber of Commerce. He chairs the board of the Parade Company, the group responsible for the annual Detroit Thanksgiving Day parade, and the July Fireworks on the Detroit River. Greg Esler, major gifts officer, described Loepp as one of the greatest Pilots of all time. “He has given back to De La Salle and to other organizations and charities,” Esler said. “Dan Loepp epitomizes what philanthropy means.”

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Advancement News President’s Reception at De La Salle November 13, 2019

Andrew and Allison Cracchiolo ‘07, John Knight, Mark Cracchiolo ‘10, Peter and Camille Cracchiolo

Carmen and Michael Johnson

Dick and Amy Habib, Renee and Greg Esler

Ann and Russ Agosta ‘64

Kathleen and Ted Kedzierski ‘71

Pat and Wendy Cummins ‘88

Brother Bob Carnaghi SJ ‘48, Kathleen and Steve McShane ‘61

Greg DeMars ‘00 and daughter Colette

Dr. Richard and Grace Herbert

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Advancement News Buslepp named Christian Brothers Dinner honoree Since June 29, 1977 – when a Detroit Free Press headline read: “Austin Coach Joins De La Salle” – Gary Buslepp has been synonymous with the all-boys Lasallian Catholic high school. A lifelong educator, vice principal, athletic director, and coach, Buslepp enjoyed three tours spanning 22 years at De La Salle Collegiate before retiring in 2018. Now, the Catholic League Hall of Fame coach has been named this year’s honoree at the 39th annual Christian Brothers Dinner on April 30. “For generations of Pilots, Gary Buslepp has been an exemplary presence in our De La Salle community,” President John M. Knight said. “It’s an honor for us to thank him for his years of service to numerous young men in metro Detroit.” Buslepp was excited to receive the news. “I remember looking at the list at previous dinners and there have been so many great educators and teachers, and alums, and benefactors of De La Salle Collegiate that I feel blessed to be considered, even be nominated,” Buslepp said. “It’s hard to put into words, I guess, maybe it hasn’t dawned completely on me yet. But it means I’m in distinguished company, and at the same time, there are so many others who’ve done more than I have. I hope they get that same feeling that I’m getting right now.” Buslepp first came to De La Salle in 1977, at the invitation of then athletic director John Maronto. Between 1977 and 1988, Buslepp coached various levels of football, basketball, and baseball, before becoming varsity basketball head coach in 1981. His 80’s teams enjoyed great success, including district, regional, and CHSL titles. The 1982 team

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Gary Buslepp

remains the only team in school history to play in the state finals. Buslepp was associated with the University of Detroit for three years, working in the athletic department as the college’s first academic support coordinator. He returned to DLS as the vice-principal in 1991, a position he held until 2000. The Grosse Pointe Public Schools sought Buslepp out, where he was an administrator and principal in the system until 2015. He returned to DLS in 2016, and spent two years with the academic support program. Buslepp remains an active supporter of the Pilots. The Gary Buslepp Scholarship Fund is on the website at https://www.delasallehs.com/alumni/support-de-la-salle/ scholarships The Christian Brothers Dinner will be held on April 30, 2020, at Penna’s of Sterling. Details, sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available at www.ThePilotHangar. com or contact Dennis Koch at dkoch@delasallehs.com.

Whatever Happened To... Bert Bondi, Class of ‘95 a police officer in Florida. He is also in contact with Steve Teodecki, who lives in Texas.

Alumni from the ‘90s who follow the NBA may have heard Bert Bondi’s name mentioned at the end of TNT and TBS broadcasts. Bondi, a 20-year veteran of TNT productions, is now a lead producer for NBA broadcasts, responsible for pre-and post-game content, as well as halftime and highlight shows. Bondi, who played football, basketball, and baseball at De La Salle, attended Columbia University, where he majored in history while playing Ivy League football for the Columbia Lions.

“The athletic achievements of the teams I played on really stand out,” Bondi said. “Our football victory against Cass Tech in the ‘94 playoffs under Coach MacDonald. Our run to the Elite 8 in basketball with Coach Esler in ‘95, and of course winning the baseball state championship in ‘93 with Coach Kelly.” Bert Bondi ‘95

Shortly after college graduation, Bondi headed to Atlanta and joined TNT. “During college, I knew I wanted to get into some sort of sports broadcasting,” Bondi said. “I did some radio work at Columbia.” At TNT, Bondi has worked his way up to producer, spending time along the way as a production assistant, researching stats, and as an assistant director. For several years, his job involved travel, but with family, Bondi has been able to stay close to home most of the time. As the producer, Bondi is the “boss.” He is responsible for content, figuring out storylines, deciding on graphics and video clips, and having a “game plan” for the broadcast. Approximately 8-10 hours of prep go into a typical pregame show, as well as approximately 25 production and technical crew members for NBA TV games. Bondi has fond memories of De La Salle, citing Brother Tom Lackey as his favorite teacher, along with Tony DeSantis, Vicki Granger and Dave Kirck. Bondi says the history lectures from Bro. Tom and Mike Karas had a profound effect on his choice of history as his college major. Bondi remains close friends with classmates Greg Peterson, who lives in metro Detroit, and Jeremy Krzysiak,

“Bert Bondi epitomized what a student athlete was while attending De La Salle,” Greg Esler said. “He was a leader who had an incredible work ethic, great talent, and the respect and trust of his teammates and coaches. Plus, he got the job done in the classroom.” Bondi is also in the Catholic League Hall of Fame, one of only 28 De La Salle alumni enshrined in the group. Bondi met his wife Megan, an Ohio native who graduated from the University of Georgia, at TNT where she was working in the public relations department. They married in 2008, and now have three children. Bondi’s oldest child, Matt, recently attended the basketball camp at De La Salle while the family vacationed in Michigan. During the camp, Scott Grimmer, a De La Salle physical education teacher, spent time with Bondi, and offered this praise. “I coached him in freshman football and varsity baseball. I think he’s the epitome of the type of young man you want representing De La Salle. He was a great teammate, dedicated, personable. I never witnessed him getting down on a teammate for making a mistake. He was always positive. I’ve kept in contact with him. It’s a blessing and treasure to know Bert as a person.” Bondi’s younger brother Chris (‘98), lives in Northern Ireland where he works in human resources. He has two children.

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Whatever happened to... Brother Jerome Stevens FSC, Class of 1949 During a summer walk outside at school, Brother Jerome Stevens, FSC, saw a student looking perplexed when asked by his friend if he had any idea who Frank Sinatra was. Chuckling to himself, Brother Jerome continued his walk, understanding this to be the generation of today. He accepts what has become of the world … quite different than what it was 70 years ago as a member of De La Salle Collegiate’s graduation class of ‘49. “Then, you had never heard of social network; and look at Dick Tracy with the radio on his wrist. He was ahead of his time,” Stevens said, and laughed. “People thought that was impossible!” At 87, he’s witnessed a lot as a De La Salle student, teacher, principal and now retired and living next door in the Christian Brothers house. Life has been good to Brother Jerome. As a high school senior, a questionnaire was given to students asking whether there might be interest in pursuing life as a Christian Brother. “I marked ‘yes,’ and they took it as a commitment,” he said. “Then a recruiter came to our door. He asked if I had told my parents. I said no. “But my parents were very happy. It was a very respectable career, especially in those days. They supported me wholeheartedly.” Having been inspired by those who taught him, a young Stevens entered the novitiate after graduation, “and I learned to be a teacher”; he later served as De La Salle’s principal from 1972-77. In his seven decades of teaching, he said the biggest change he saw is the world going digital. “Schools are moving toward Smartboards; I’ve never done that,” he said thoughtfully. “The world has passed me by, but I still want blackboards.”

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Brother Jerome ‘49 with Bob Anderson ‘78

He owns a cell phone, but uses it for emergency reasons only. When he wants to talk to someone, he chooses to use a landline instead. Though many among the younger crowd may not know who Ol’ Blue Eyes is, Brother Jerome admitted he, too, is unaware of today’s popular singers. But he makes it a point to read through popular magazines and periodicals to catch up on the goings-on in today’s society. However, most of his time is spent in prayer, or in reading books. He reads at least two a week, many of which he finds throughout the various libraries in the area. Most recently, he read a biography on Noah Webster. His interests have also led him to a series of books by J.D. Robb. “I stumbled across these (Robb) books over the last few years when I was at the library,” Stevens said, “so I took one home and one thing led to another.” So far, he’s read about 20 of them. By educating himself in many areas -- Latin, chemistry,

Whatever happened to... English literature, and business to name a few -- he has been able to pass on that knowledge to his students. Some might say he helped to carve out the paths for their futures, as well. It was easy for Keith Jablonski, ’92, to reflect fondly on Brother Jerome. “My favorite Brother Jerome quote was, ‘What are you reading, and... so what?’ ” Jablonski said. “He challenged us to read, but also to retain what we read and to be able to have an intelligent conversation about it. That’s a life lesson on top of being useful to our education.” Part of Jablonski’s junior year Honors English class included standing up and giving an oral report, perhaps a tip of the hat toward his future career as a lawyer. He is still impressed by Brother Jerome and the impact he had on him.

“This is where Brother Jerome would enter the picture,” Anderson recalled. “My mother spoke so highly of Brother Jerome the rest of her days as the reason we boys could attend La Salle, and this is where her love and loyalty to the Christian Brothers would no doubt begin.” His mother met with Brother Jerome to discuss how to work off the cost of tuition. “He was most reassuring, confident and calm – and with a nice sense of humor – that it would all work out,” Anderson said. “Mind you, we were only talking about tuition at around $600 for a year by senior year, and my working for half of that around the school grounds and with the weekly bingo set up and take down. My, how times have changed.” Brother Jerome admits he enjoys hearing from his former students.

“His vocabulary was incredible, and he taught us all sorts of great words,” Jablonski said. “Two examples I recall are the definition, and proper use of the word myriad. Also, do you know what a prestidigitator is? I do, thanks to Brother Jerome.

“I don’t see many of them now, but when I was teaching, there were always a few who would keep in touch,” he said. “We would exchange letters, but I would always tell them that I will be the one to write the last letter. The next one is up to them.”

“What a great, dry sense of humor that man has. Class was always enjoyable because of him.”

De La Salle students today are well-disciplined, but Brother Jerome is firm when he says, “teachers can’t teach students everything.” As teachers, “we like to think we are doing something, but it comes from the parents. These are very, very good kids, in their studies and if they do what they’re told.”

For Bob Anderson, ’78, it was solely because of Brother Jerome that he and his two brothers attended De La Salle. His mother was adamant that her seven children have a Catholic education (his sisters went to Regina), and she met with the De La Salle principal to discuss the possibility.

Brother Jerome is happy with his day-to-day life with his seven fellow Christian Brothers, leading “a life of peaceful security, and I thank the Lord I have that. I’m secure, peaceful and content. One of my favorite quotations is, ‘Is this the day my body betrays me?’ “I’ve had a very good career and a very happy life. I’m in really good shape. Each day is a blessing.” This article is adapted from an article by Michelle Samartino, a writer with the Detroit Catholic.

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Making A Difference NHS aids Motor City Mitten Mission Last December, De La Salle Collegiate’s National Honor Society partnered with the Motor City Mitten Mission to help the homeless in the Detroit area. Gail Marlow, founder and executive director of the mitten mission, showed the students how to turn plastic bags into plastic yarn, which is then crocheted into sleeping bag-sized mats distributed to the homeless. Volunteers meet regularly at various sites to do the crocheting, as well as create small pillows. Marlow explained that the plastic bags can be rinsed, unlike cloth, and are lightweight and portable enough for those living on the streets. To learn more about the Motor City Mitten Mission, visit its website at motorcitymittenmission.org.

Top photos: Students prepare plastic bags that will become mats for the homeless. At right: Gail Marlow (center, baseball cap), and Traci Smith, moderator of the National Honor Society, along with NHS members.

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Making a difference De La Salle students adopt 37 families Barbara Cloyd, a mother of four, has stage 2 breast cancer, and had her first chemotherapy treatment in December at Troy Beaumont. She is facing five months of chemo, surgery, and radiation. The Cloyds are one of 37 families in the Warren area adopted by De La Salle Collegiate students for the annual Christmas service project, providing groceries and gifts to needy families. Jo Marie Ragona, De La Salle’s Christian Service Director, connected with the non-profit Good Shepherd Coalition of Macomb County to identify families needing help with groceries and gifts for the Christmas holiday. Santa and students welcome Barbara Cloyd to De La Salle. Each advisory, led by the juniors, collected financial donations from students. From there, teams worked She didn’t expect to need help again, but cancer has a way together to do grocery and gift shopping, based of changing plans in a big hurry. on lists provided by parents of the intended families. The Student Council provided turkeys for each family. Students “I am so thankful for this donation,” she said. “It means a wrapped gifts, and delivered them, although some families, lot to me and my family.” like the Cloyds, chose to pick up items at De La Salle. For junior Lorance Morrison, the activity has been a Census data shows that more than 26 percent of the stupositive experience. dents in the district live in poverty, nearly 10 percent higher “I’ve never done anything like this,” Morrison said. than the poverty level for children in Macomb County. “Everyone in the class donated, and I had a lot of fun “You wouldn’t think that in Macomb County that there’s shopping for a family in need. It’s great to help someone that kind of need,” Ragona said. “Some of these people live who really needs the help.” in motels. A lot of them are single parent families. One is a Junior Avery Petri, who shopped for his advisory’s gifts multi-generational family.” with his own family, is already planning his senior year The Cloyds’ situation is different than most, however. International Baccalaureate project with 95.5 FM’s Mojo Barbara works as an accountant, and is trying to work as in the Morning, a popular radio show. much as possible, but she tires easily. Her husband, Ron, “This experience was awesome,” Petri said. “The gifts has seasonal work. Her oldest child, Michael, works at a bring joy to people and need, and their smiles and laughter warehouse, and is hoping to become an electrician. Her is contagious.” other three children attend elementary, middle, and high A faculty and staff group also adopted a family. schools in the Warren Consolidated System. “It’s what we do for others is what God has done for us,” Barbara Cloyd reached out for help about five years ago, Ragona said. “We have been given a lot, and it’s good to when her own mother was going through breast cancer, share with others who don’t have it.” and Barbara was struggling to work and raise her family.

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mAKING A DIFFERENCE Student collects athletic gear for PAL When De La Salle Collegiate junior Will Smythe and his younger brother cleaned out their baseball gear this past fall, they had a pile of pants, bats, cleats, practice gear, and helmets. Smythe realized that they could outfit a whole team, and decided to research a charity that could make the best use of the equipment. He settled on the Sheriff Police Athletic League (PAL) in Pontiac, near his family’s home in Rochester Hills, and contacted its operations coordinator, Justin Daniels. Smythe, who chose PAL because he enjoys sports, said Daniels was thrilled about the idea. “Will brought two truckloads of equipment,” he said. “We’ve never had a high school student offer to do an equipment drive.” Daniels added that the equipment excited the entire staff as well as the young people playing on teams. “If kids could have anything, they would ask for sports apparel.” Smythe said. “It makes a kid feel good to be dressed in the right clothes and shoes when playing a sport. Look good, feel good, play good.” Working with the school’s Campus Ministry office, Smythe set up collection boxes in the main hallway. The gently used equipment for boys and girls ages 4-17 will assist PAL with its free youth sports programming. Pontiac’s PAL has served over 1,000 youth since its 2015 founding. Law enforcement officers and community partners also offer workouts and educational trips, as well as mentoring and enrichment programs. “Basketball shoes that are mainly used inside are often perfectly good for use by someone else once outgrown,” Smythe said. “The same with so much of the sports gear that we all have. Bringing smiles to kids’ faces, and a place of belonging that is a positive force in their lives, means everything.” Smythe is no stranger to community service. He spent time last summer with a group of friends that called themselves Summer Impact. They regularly volunteered at Lighthouse

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Will Smythe ‘21

of Oakland County in Pontiac, a nonprofit that provides shelter to the homeless, a food pantry, housing assistance, and more. A three-year member of the Pilots basketball team - he’s a shooting guard on the varsity - Smythe is also a member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, the Stockmarket Club, and serves as a student ambassador with the Admissions office. He carries a 4.47 grade-point average - second in his class - with Advanced Placement classes Calculus, Biology, and Human Geography. “Will Smythe epitomizes the student athlete,” Pilots coach Greg Esler said. “He would like to play college basketball in the Ivy League, and has already been heavily recruited.” Smythe is interested in the University of Pennsylvania, and Esler says Eastern Michigan University has already offered a full ride. New and gently-used athletic clothing and equipment can be dropped off at any time at the Sheriff PAL Pontiac SubStation at 110 East Pike Street in Pontiac. Contact Daniels at 248-761-0622 or email sheriffpal@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.sheriffpal.com.

around de la salle De La Salle ranks among nation’s top STEM schools De La Salle Collegiate has been named one of the nation’s best schools for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, according to Newsweek magazine. “What an incredible honor,” De La Salle Principal Nathan Maus said. “The credit goes 100 percent to our students who work very hard in their studies and who strive to do their best. The credit for this achievement also goes to our teachers who are determined to help students develop their love of learning, challenge them to achieve more and support them along the way and to our students who work hard and strive to do their best every day.” De La Salle was among the top 13 percent of the nation’s public and private high schools – and ranked second in Macomb County – to be honored as a 2020 Best STEM school.

Newsweek partners with STEM.org to rank the nation’s top STEM schools. The schools were ranked based on data collected from 2015-19. The research determined which schools provided the best STEM experience for students while positioning them for post-secondary study. “Second overall in the county, that’s an amazing achievement by our students,” Maus added. “It shows their devotion to their studies and extremely hard work, and that our teachers are really pushing hard for the students to achieve their best.” The top-ranked school in the country was the School of Science and Engineering in Dallas, Texas. The top Michigan school was Cranbrook Schools in Bloomfield Hills (No. 9 overall). The top Michigan public school ranking was Frankenmuth High School (No. 114).

Five write exam for potential scholarship Five De La Salle Collegiate students competed in the second part of the Michigan Mathematics Prize Competition in December. Their scores in the first portion - a 40-question, multiple-choice exam - taken earlier this fall, ranked among the top 1,000 students in Michigan. The second part was a five-proof exam; both exams were given at De La Salle. The students included senior Derrelle Murray, juniors Michael Wisnieswki and Suheum Hao, sophomore Minseok Bae, and senior Tristan Lago, who competed in Part 2 in 2018. De La Salle’s Math Department chair Joe Novak said 50 students took the first part of the competition, which is voluntary and open to all students. The top 100 students in the second part of the MMPC

are invited to an awards banquet, and the top 50 receive a scholarship ranging from $250 to $2500. De La Salle has had students place in the top 100. Novak says the challenge of the test is good for students. “Students may see math they haven’t seen before,” he said, “and sometimes they don’t know their full potential until pushed.” Novak also notes that Bae, who also took the first part last year, did so well that the Math Department moved him to the Advanced Placement Calculus AB class; Bae did well on the May 2019 exam, and this year, is enrolled in AP Calculus BC. For more information on the MMPC, check this link https://www.nmu.edu/mathandcomputerscience/ mi-mathematics-prize-competition

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around de la Salle Freshman earns photo award De La Salle Collegiate freshman Roland Hernandez has been named a 2020 Michigan Thumb Scholastic Art Awards winner in photography. Hernandez came to De La Salle as a Michigan Art Education Association-sponsored, Michigan Middle School Top 100 art winner. He received the Silver Key Award from Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program, which is the longest-running recognition program for creative young people in the country.

Roland Hernandez

Hernandez was recognized for this photo of the Mackinac Bridge that he took with his iPhone. Scholastics Art & Writing is a national art competition for students in grades 7 through 12. The Scholastic Awards look for work that demonstrates originality, technical skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. The Awards were launched in 1923 by Scholastic, Inc. – the global children’s publishing and media company – to encourage, foster and reward creativity in American classrooms. Each year, students who excel in the visual arts and creative writing have the chance to earn recognition, get their work exhibited or published and to earn scholarships. Hernandez, who attended St. Mary’s Royal Oak, received his Silver Key certificate on Feb. 3 at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts. His photograph is on display during the Michigan Thumb Region Show at the Lorenzo Cultural Center on Garfield in Clinton Township, Feb. 3-12.

Roland’s winning picture of the Mackinac Bridge, taken with his iPhone.

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around de la salle Chapel receives a stained-glass makeover De La Salle Collegiate has a stunning new addition to its already beautiful chapel. Thanks to a generous donation from Mrs. Irene Wojcik, the 84-seat chapel will shine even brighter with the installation of a new stained-glass window in February. “It was my idea to do a window and it made sense to do one of Saint John Baptist de La Salle,” said Joe Gerardi, De La Salle’s vice president of mission and ministry. “I got in contact with the archdiocese to find out who to go to.” Gerardi was directed to Brighton-based Thompson Art Glass, which worked furiously to finish this month. The stained glass, which measures nearly 97 square feet, is a welcomed addition that replaces the plain tempered glass and vertical blinds behind the altar. “They’re a fourth-generation company and they do, and have done, both new and all kinds of restoration projects for the Archdiocese of Detroit, as well as all other kinds of places,” Gerardi said. “Sounds like their bread and butter has been doing a lot of work for the archdiocese.” “Thompson Glass asked for examples of Lasallian art,” Gerardi said. “So I basically gave them a bunch of stuff, features of Lasallian art. They don’t know anything of who Saint John Baptist de La Salle is, so we gave them various images that are out there of him and the symbols that are used with him.” From the time of the idea’s conception, the project took approximately 18 months to finish.

In December, Gerardi – along with Brother Ken Kalinowski and De La Salle art teacher John Hicks – visited Thompson’s art studios to get a peek at the project’s progress. Gerardi said it’s amazing to watch the artists work with so many different colors. “There are at least a few dozen colors that are being used,” he said. “It’s all different shades. It’s a process with only two panels at the top that has the darkest of dark blues. Then it’s like layers of different blues. At the bottom, all of the browns and the grays are all choices. “What they wanted to do with us was give us a range. What’s the darkest you want to go and what’s the lightest you want to go? For instance, the rabat – which is the white piece worn by the Christian Brothers – that’s actually going to be a clear glass that they’ll paint on. The black of the habit, the glass for all of that will all be gray. Then there will be some staining of that glass in some black so there are some striations so you’ll see the folds.” As for Mrs. Wojcik’s involvement, Director of Alumni Relations Dennis Koch learned of her plans to make a donation to the school and thought the stained-glass project was a perfect fit. Mrs. Wojcik’s son, Mark, is a 1969 alumnus. “Dennis knew that Mark’s mom was interested in making a donation to the school in some fashion or another,” Gerardi said. “Then Dennis put her in touch with me knowing that this project was out there as a possibility. She loved the idea and we will be doing a dedication to her late husband (Joe) and family.” A dedication ceremony is planned for March 10 with Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Robert Fisher giving a blessing.

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Around de la salle Stock Market Club students compete in virtual game Senior Noah Cole just made $112,913 - virtually - in an online simulation game that engages students in the world of global capital markets. https://www. marketwatch.com/game Although the money isn’t real, the competition is. Students start with $100,000, and over a two month period try to increase their portfolio value as much as they can. “I really had so much fun taking part in the stock market challenge,” Cole said. “I feel I learned a lot about the value of a good investment and the risk that comes with the stock market.”

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Senior Andrew Rusu took second; seniors Justin Desmet and Brendan Pochmara, and junior Andrew Fergan were finalists. “What a great opportunity to expose yourself to the stock market,” Christine Quitter, the DLS liaison to the Christian Financial Credit Union, said. “The more practice you have with finance simulation, the better off you will be down the road. Great job Pilots!“ To date, the annual Virtual Stock Market Game has prepared 17 million students for financially independent futures. The De La Salle Stock Market Club meets twice a month. The moderator is Dennis Koch, director of alumni relations, and a former business teacher at DLS.

Admissions News Upcoming Key Events Future Pilots Appreciation Night - WAMS Musical Nice Work If You Can Get It - Dress Rehearsal on February 20 at 7 p.m. Freshman Scheduling Night - March 4 High School Placement Test - March 7 at 8 a.m. Discovery Day Open Houses

Tuesday, April 28, 5 -8 p.m.

Saturday, May 2, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Still time to apply to De La Salle Collegiate It is not too late to apply to be a member of the Class of 2024! To apply, please visit delasallehs.com/admissions/applynow. Once you create your account, the De La Salle Admissions Office will guide you step-by-step through the rest of the process. If you have any questions, please contact our Admissions Office by phone at 586-541-6220 or email admissions@delasallehs.com.

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Alumni Spotlight Ed Carolan, Class of 1987 Ed Carolan remembers Brother Tom Lackey on the stage in the school cafeteria, speaking to the new class in the fall of 1983. “Look to the left. Look to the right,” Carolan said. “One of the three of you won’t be here at graduation.” Now the CEO of the Lyons Magnus Company in Fresno, California, Carolan did graduate from De La Salle Collegiate, as well as the Georgia Institute of Technology and Harvard University. His path from freshman year to leading a food services company has not been straight, with side forays into investment banking and international assignments. “Until high school, I was an OK student.” Carolan says. “I knew I was never the smartest. I overcompensated by working harder. I was studying probably four or five hours every night, while my classmates were maybe studying three to four.” Carolan says he was inspired by those around him. “I felt like I was in a group of amazing individuals who had high expectations for themselves and for each other,” he said. “Being in that environment made me better.”

him to consider what you love, instead of what you are good at, and it seemed engineering would be the best fit. Carolan says his father helped him research the best engineering schools, and then they shortened the list and went on a summer tour. “It came down to Michigan and Georgia Tech.” Carolan said, noting that other than a Disney trip, he had never been south of Ohio. “It was a big move. … I still don’t know how I got into Georgia.” After his 1992 college graduation, Carolan worked in Atlanta with Anderson Consulting. One of the senior managers had gone to Harvard Business School, and encouraged Carolan to apply. With his work experience, and no GMAT test required for admission, he ended up at Harvard, earning an MBA in 1996. “I knew I would have to answer the question why I was in business with an engineering degree,” Carolan said. He spent the summer of 1995 interning on Wall Street, and thought he might go into investment banking. “I loved math, and still love math,” he said. “Brother Carl Malaclaza was a big influence in my life.”

He also cites the discipline of his high school education.

But the second year at Harvard made a difference.

“I played golf, and I learned to be disciplined with my time,” he said, “and to manage and organize my schedule.”

“I loved some parts of banking and not others,” Carolan said. “Two professors mentored me and helped me figure out what I loved doing at work. I like to be on a team, to compete and keep score.”

Although Carolan enjoyed his English classes, and cites memorable teachers Vicki Granger and Brian Kelly, physics inspired him. Carolan took Advanced Placement Physics with Rich Dobryzinski. Carolan’s father, now retired and living in Florida, told

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The professors encouraged him to either start a business or go into brand management. “I didn’t know what that was,” he said. “I knew what entrepreneurs looked like; some were in my class.”

alumni News Pilot Bar Association now in second year Carolan prepared a list of companies that would be a starting point in the midwest and south. He left Boston for Proctor and Gamble in Cincinnati, and five years later, in 2001, joined the Campbell Soup Company. He rose steadily at Campbell, becoming president of Campbell’s Fresh Western Division in 2016, before heading to California and taking over Lyons Magnus in May 2018. Lyons Magnus, originally a family-owned company that picked and packed peaches for Dole, is now a leader in the food industry, producing and marketing a wide array of fruits, beverages, and chocolate products. Carolan’s family lives in Santa Monica, where his two younger children are in high school (a married stepson lives in northern Kentucky). He is home on the weekends before the commute north each Monday to Fresno, 220 miles away in the central part of California. “After the last move two years ago, and this was the fourth move for the kids, we agreed to work hard for them to finish high school at the same school,” he said. “They love their schools as much as I loved De La Salle.” While Carolan doesn’t have a lot of spare time, he does enjoy reading, and many of his high school literature paperbacks are on his bookshelf. Carolan is proud of his De La Salle education. “De La Salle was the critical launch pad for where I’ve ended up in life,” he said.

The Pilot Bar Association gathered on Nov. 7 for its first general meeting of the 2019-20 academic year, welcoming the Honorable George Steeh, a Macomb County judge, as the guest speaker. Approximately 60 active members of the Bar Association were present, and discussed the January 2020 Career Day, potential internship opportunities for students and alumni, the De La Salle mock trial team, and a plan to establish a scholarship fund. Thanks to Mark Wisniewski, ’83, chairman and CEO of Kitch Attorneys and Counselors, the sponsors of the event. The Pilot Bar Association will next gather on March 19, at 6 p.m., at Villa Penna in Sterling Heights. To learn more about the Pilot Bar Association and membership opportunities, contact Dennis Koch at dkoch@delasallehs.com or 586-541-6221.

Father-son alumni team are winners The Pilot Business Association held its fall networking event on October 14 as a Monday night football watch party at the Fifth Avenue Restaurant in Royal Oak. Alumni Dominic Sciturro, ‘17, and his father, James Sciturro, ‘83, won the Barry Sanders autographed helmet. Special thanks to Anthony Rubino, ‘01, of the Pilot Property Group, and Steve Graus, ‘74, of Detroit City Sports, event sponsors. For more information on the Pilot Business Association, contact Dennis Koch, director of alumni relations, at dkoch@delasallehs. com or 586-541-6221.

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Alumni news

Alumni

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reunion weekend

Alumni News Glasgow ‘94 named Distinguished Composer & Conductor In late 2019, De La Salle Collegiate alumnus Michael Glasgow, ‘94, was named Distinguished Composer and Conductor with MidAmerica Productions and MidAm International. MidAmerica Productions brings together conductors, soloists, and choral and instrumental ensembles from the United States and abroad to appear at New York City’s top venues, including Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center. “Michael brought MAP the New York premiere of his Requiem in 2017, and from the outset I knew he was a force to be reckoned with in the world of choral music,” said MidAmerica Productions founder Peter Tiboris.

“The European premiere of the work, which MidAm presented in Vienna in June last year was another triumph in what promises to be a fruitful relationship.” Glasgow has composed four musical plays, as well as numerous original choral, orchestral, and handball compositions. His Latin Requiem premiered in April 2001, and he conducted the work at Carnegie Hall on his 40th birthday in 2017. He also conducted the European premiere in Vienna this summer. “MidAmerica is about more than the business of concertising,” he said. “The company has a drive to curate a repertoire of excellent musical talent from page to podium. To be named as Distinguished Composer and Conductor with one of New York’s preeminent production companies is a tremendously humbling distinction.” Glasgow has been Minister of Music at North Raleigh United Methodist Church since 1998. He is an active member of the American Composers Forum, the American Choral Directors Association, and the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers. He has fulfilled more than 40 commissions, and his music has won numerous accolades and recognitions in composition contests. His concerto for Castings, a multi-movement symphonic work, will premiere in Hong Kong next year. Glasgow is sought after for conducting engagements throughout the country and abroad. He made his international conducting debut in 2013 with the Handbell Ringers of Great Britain, and returned in 2015 and again in 2017. He has also conducted in the Eastern Carribean, Canada, Austria, and Singapore. An honors graduate from the College of Charleston in South Carolina, Glasgow holds degrees in music/theory composition and in journalism. He earned a Master of Church Music degree from Concordia University in Wisconsin, with a double emphasis in both choral and handbell music.

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Alumni news Ryan Anderson ‘18

Congratulations to Ryan on accepting a position as a new member of their Global Data, Insights, and Analytics team at Ford Motor Company for the summer of 2020. Anderson is currently a junior at Michigan State University in the Eli Broad College of Business. Massimo Badalamenti ‘12

A huge congratulations to Massimo, sworn into the Michigan Bar Association as a general attorney at the Mount Clemens Courthouse on Nov. 6. He attended Grand Valley State University and the Wayne State University Law School. Justin Fischer ‘18, Jordan Winowecki ‘18, Luke Pfromm ‘18

Good luck to Justin (Lake Superior State University), Jordan (Concordia University), and Luke (Macomb Community College) this year as they each play basketball at their respective schools. The three classmates were members of the De La Salle basketball team that advanced to the MHSAA Division 1 Final Four in 2018. Kevin Fitzhenry ‘03

Kevin and Kathleen Fitzhenry were married November 16, 2019.

Griffin Schroeder ’15

Congratulations to Griffin on accepting a position with 97.1 The Ticket as a producer for the sports-talk station. He attended Northwood University, where he served as an assistant sports information director. He graduated last May. His introduction to a career in sports media began at De La Salle, as he was one of the first members of the Student Broadcast Club when it originated in 2014. Majeed Mokhtari ’18

Congratulations to Majeed on beginning a position at Centria Healthcare as a registered behavior technician. He is currently attending Oakland University and is pursuing a degree in engineering. Alexander Orlando ’09

Jake Theut ‘11

Kathleen and Kevin Fitzhenry

Gavin Gonzalez ‘18

Congratulations to Gavin on beginning a new position at StraightForwardSports.net as a journalist. Gonzalez is currently attending Michigan State University and is a Supply Chain Management major.

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Congratulations to Kevin on accepting a new position with the Detroit Tigers. He will join the franchise as a baseball information assistant in May, following graduation from Toledo University. He has served as the student manager of the Toledo baseball team during his entire college career. His younger brother Kyle ’18 is also enrolled at Toledo where he plays baseball.

Congratulations to Alex who is currently working as an account executive at CoStar Group. Before beginning his new position, he spent over two years at MediMex, where he was an account executive. He graduated from Wayne State University in 2013 with a double major in Finance and Supply Chain Management.

Joey Garbarino ‘15

Sending our best wishes to Joe, recently diagnosed with a spinal cord syndrome that ended his football career at Northwood University. He was the Pilots’ starting quarterback on the Division 2 state championship team in 2014. He is currently a student at Northwood’s Devos Graduate School.

Kevin Jones ‘16

Jake is playing hockey in the minor leagues, and recently earned his first professional win for the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs over the Knoxville Bears with 42 saves in the 6-1 contest. Theut attended Northeastern University, and will be receiving his master’s in industrial psychology from the University of AlabamaHuntsville, where he played his 5th year of NCAA Hockey on a scholarship. He also provides training and coaching to goalies in the off-season.

alumni news New alumni dues program launched The De La Salle Collegiate Alumni Association is modifying its existing alumni dues program. A new, three-tier system, is designed to meet the needs and means of alumni. Dues are used to offset the cost of alumni events, such as the 1926 Society, events of the professional associations, college visits, class reunions, and more. Nearly 700 alumni are already lifetime members, and will continue to have this status, despite the changes to the dues program. Those alumni who paid annual or lifetime dues are recognized in the annual report edition of The Collegiate magazine. “Our alumni continue to achieve many great successes in their personal lives, spiritually, professionally, athletically, and beyond,” Dennis Koch, alumni director, said. “Our goal as an Alumni Association is to provide opportunities for years to come for the next group of young men and provide a Lasallian Christian education.”

Alumni Dues Levels

Tier 1: $19.26 - 1926 Society Supporter for graduates within the last 10 years. Receive access to the Pilot Bar, Business, and Medical associations. Tier 2: $192.60 - Pilot Supporter for those who graduated more than 10 years ago. Receive access to the Pilot Bar, Business, and Medical associations, as well as invitations to future DLS Alumni Association events and special promotions. Tier 3: $500.00 - Lifetime Member. Receive a lifetime admission pass to all De La Salle home athletic events, access to the Pilot Bar, Business, and Medical associations, and invitations to future lifetime member events and special promotions. (Current lifetime members also qualify.)

Honoring Veterans

De La Salle Collegiate is creating a new Veterans’ Wall to honor all of its alumni who have served in the armed forces. All active and retired military alumni are asked to contact the De La Salle Alumni Office at 586-541-6221 or dkoch@delasallehs.com

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Alumni news 50 year grads reconnect at Christmas Luncheon At the annual Senior Alumni Christmas luncheon in December, new attendees among the nearly 200 present included several members of De La Salle Collegiate’s Class of 1969. The group included Alan Rudziewicz, who has been active with De La Salle for several years, along with Ed Green, Larry Hearn, Dennis Scully, and Mark Scheible. The annual holiday lunch provides an opportunity for senior alums from De La Salle and St. Joseph to gather in fellowship. Rudziewicz and fellow 1969 alumnus Mark Wojcik have tried to organize a 50th reunion but without success, so the luncheon provided an opportunity to catch up. “I think it’s great,” Rudziewicz said. “We picked up right where we left off when we left school. We are telling stories non stop. The same thing was true of the homecoming Saturday alumni dinner this past October.” Following graduation from De La Salle, Rudziewicz attended Western Michigan University, and later the Detroit College of Law. He is a partner in the law firm of Strobl and Sharp in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., headed by Tom Strobl, ’60. Another attorney in the firm is Jay LaBarge ’93. Rudziewicz, who specializes in estate planning and real estate, has worked with Alumni Director Dennis Koch in forming the Pilot Bar Association, and with Major Gifts Officer Greg Esler in facilitating a major gift from his 1969 classmate, the late Gary Karas.

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Rudziewicz’s son, Darren, is a ’98 De La Salle alumnus, and now lives in Arlington, Virginia, where he is a banking attorney with the FDIC. Another son, Brandon, attended Brother Rice. Green commented he was happy to be at the gathering, and to reconnect with classmates, some of whom he last saw on graduation day 50 years ago. Green is a retired chemist from General Motors. He earned his degree from Michigan State University. A retired physical therapist for handicapped children in the Waterford School District, Hearn attended several football games last fall. He earned his degree from Western Michigan University. An accountant with the federal government and with Wayne County, Scully has attended the Christian Brothers Dinner the last two years. His degree is from Wayne State University, but he notes the last time he saw some classmates was at graduation. Proudly noting his class ring still fits, Scheible is a retired real estate broker, and was also communications manager for the Michigan Osteopathic Association. He, too, is a Wayne State graduate. Scheible has also attended recent Christian Brothers Dinners. Rudziewicz laughed as Scheible displayed his class ring. “He must have had it sized right back then,” Rudziewicz said. The 1969 contingent at the luncheon was small, but Rudziewicz noted they all earned degrees and had professional positions. “The education we got at the school,” he said, “and what it led to is a testament to the teachers at De La Salle and what they did for us.” For more information on alumni events, contact Dennis Koch at dkoch@delasallehs.com or https://www.delasallehs.com/ alumni/alumni-events

alumni news Pilot Medical Association holds inaugural meeting

Keynote speaker Dr. Charles Lucas, ’55, currently a professor of surgery in the Michael and Marian Ilitch Department of Surgery at Wayne State University, encouraged each member of the association to take action.

“This inaugural meeting helped lay the groundwork for what we want the medical association to become,” said Dennis Koch, the director of alumni relations. “This group displayed a sincere care and desire to help current students and young alumni find their way through the vast medical fields. I’m excited to see the many ways in which these men can make an impact.”

For over an hour, the group discussed ways to get involved with De La Salle Collegiate, and help current students who may be interested in a medical field career. One idea is to set up a database for students to stay in contact with professional alumni in the field.

If interested in joining the Pilot Medical Association, contact Koch at dkoch@delasallehs.com at 586-541-6221.

Nearly 30 alumni, friends, and staff attended the inaugural meeting of the Pilot Medical Association in November at Detroit’s Caucus Club, owned by George Sboukis ’89.

Lucas graduated from the University of Detroit in 1959 and from the Wayne State University School of Medicine in 1962.

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alumni news Alumni ‘pay it forward’ on Career Day Representing fields ranging from medicine, law, and engineering to the military, skilled trades, and public safety, more than 60 alumni, parents, faculty and alumni spouses, and friends of alumni gave presentations on their various careers during De La Salle Collegiate’s Career Day. Dennis Koch, director of alumni relations, organized the day with assistance from associate director of alumni relations Brendan Johnson, Aaron Johnson, and counselor Jon Hickey. Unlike past career days, where speakers presented to students who indicated interest in a particular field, this year speakers moved to different subject classrooms. “This was a tremendous day, which really impacted students,” Koch said. Hickey echoed Koch’s thoughts. “Our students were exposed to a lot of options and opportunities,” Hickey said. “The day gave them lots to consider.” Dave Purrenhage is a sales professional in the automotive market, who was happy to return to his alma mater to give back. “It’s important for each generation to pay it forward,” said Purrenhage ‘85, who was volunteering for his fourth Career Day. Chris Ferlito, who is with the Clark Hill Law Firm in

Brendan Garwood ‘15

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Detroit, remembers how helpful Career Day was to him as a student. “I want to pay it forward and help students understand what being an attorney is like,” said Ferlito ‘06. Brian Belloli ‘92, a team director for Microsoft, remembered Career Day having an impact on his life. “If I didn’t have that opportunity,” he said, “I am not sure I would have the professional success I enjoy today.” Cory Stadelbauer ‘08, an audit manager with Grant Thornton, also recalled benefitting from Career Day during his days at De La Salle. “I remember what a refreshing and motivating experience it was for me back then,” he said. “What I didn’t realize, but now see, is what a refreshing and motivating opportunity it can be as a professional.” Stadelbauer has volunteered with the Detroit Economic Club and also worked with De La Salle students about various networking and personal development topics. “When I hear their stories,” he said, “I went back to work after each of those sessions motivated and eager to continue in my own personal endeavors.” A senior research engineer with Ford Motor Company, Tim Drotar ‘85, was also happy to participate in Career Day.

Josh King ‘08

Glenn Garwood

alumni news

Jerry Zaccardelli ‘75, and the Economics Class

“I am very fortunate to have found my niche,” Drotar said. “I am passionate about STEM and hope to inspire the next generation of innovators to pursue a career in this field.” Brian Simpson ‘94, cited his foreign language skills in talking with students about his career in international sales. Simpson speaks Portugese, Spanish, and German. “Foreign languages open doors,” he said. Simpson encouraged students to study abroad in college and live outside the country, but also said, “You can do any work you want from here in Detroit and Michigan.” Kyle Suminski ‘11, now works in physical therapy, and was quick to join the lineup of presenters. He was a junior in 2010, and had a fractured ankle that caused him to miss the entire baseball season. “The late Ed Martel (‘87) was the keynote speaker that day,” Suminski said. “I was still in a cast, and he was a former professional baseball player who had become a physical therapist. He had recently had his leg amputated. His story was so moving that I thought physical therapy could be something to get into. Ed contacted me in my last year of physical therapy to do my last clinical rotation with him. Ed and his wife Julie hired me shortly after I graduated. After Ed’s death, I took over his position of working with patients and baseball players in particular. Career Day was a huge day in my life, and I hope I can give back and inspire a student to go into whatever they are passionate about.”

Dr. Anthony Weinert ‘89, who is a foot and ankle doctor and surgeon, wanted to give back to De La Salle Collegiate for what his high school experience meant to him. “Career Day is so essential in giving high school students the tools to figure out a career path, and what will bring happiness and joy to each of their lives,” he said. “If you have a dream and a vision of what you want to become, you can do it.” Other alumni speakers also included: Ben Aloia ‘91; Frank Briguglio ‘02; Tony Catullo ‘59; Vito Chirco ‘11; Joe DeLave ‘80; Frank Dostie ‘11; John Elkhoury ‘02; Scott Eovaldi ‘01; Brendan Garwood ‘15; Jeff Graus ‘95; Joe Hallman ‘88; Zach Issa ‘09; Brother Ken Kalinowski, FSC ‘84; Josh King ‘08; John Labut ‘98; Matthew Lauhoff ‘06; Jacob Lepore ‘10; Dr. Charles Lucas ‘55; Dan Marsh ‘81; Dr. Andrew Mastay ‘05; Brandon Mattinen ‘13; Alex Orlando ‘09; Dr. Frank Petruzzello ‘88; John Plotzke ‘09; Jeff Podolski ‘82; Aaron Schmid ‘94; Joel Schmidt ‘94; Dr. Russ Sclafani ‘97; Jim Slubowski ‘84; Mark St. Peter ‘81; Jonathan Stano ‘04; Rick Stanza ‘93; Daniel Vachon ‘13; Mark Vanneste ‘97; Jim Vollmet ‘11; Dr. Peter Watson ‘90; Carter Wilson ‘14; Dr. Frank Wilson ‘48; Jerry Zaccardelli ‘75; and John Zmiejko ‘71.

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ALUMNI NEWS Career Day

Career Day speakers gathered in the TARMAC.

Jim Singelyn ‘90 gives Brian Dobyzycki’s police dog a play break.

Dr. Charles Lucas ‘55, discusses old photos with Greg Esler.

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Tony Catullo ‘59

Jeff Podolski ‘92

Thaier Mukhtar and John Elkhoury ‘03.

Tim Drotar ‘85

Vito Chirco ‘11, Will Smythe and Tony Serra record a podcast.

Ben Aloia ‘91

Karen Dostie and son Frank Dostie ‘11

Upcoming Events Alumni Events February

18 Class of 1958 Lunch - Polka Restaurant, 2908 E Maple Rd, Troy, MI 48083 20 Class of 1963 Breakfast - Big Boy, 16880 Hall Rd, Clinton Twp, MI 48038 23 Pilot Bar Association Communion Breakfast - Mass begins at 10 a.m. at DLS 29 Alumni Basketball Tournament - at De La Salle

March 1

Alumni Basketball Tournament - at De La Salle

17 Class of 1958 Lunch - Polka Restaurant, 2908 E Maple Rd, Troy, 48083 18 Christian Brothers Auxiliary Fashion Show at Penna’s of Sterling, 38400 Van Dyke Ave, Sterling Heights, 48313 Tickets are available at ThePilotHangar.com 19 Class of 1963 Breakfast - Big Boy, 16880 Hall Rd, Clinton Twp, MI 48038 19 Pilot Bar, Business and Medical Associations March Madness Event - Villa Penna, 43985 Hayes Rd. Sterling Heights, 48313

April

30 Christian Brothers Dinner - Penna’s of Sterling, 38400 Van Dyke Ave, Sterling Heights, 48313 Tickets are available at ThePilotHangar.com For further details on any alumni event, contact Dennis Koch in the DLS Alumni Office at 586.541.6221 or dkoch@delasallehs.com

Save The Date

Christian Brothers Classic Golf Outing At the Detroit Golf Club

June 22 , 2020

Tickets on Sale at ThePilotHangar.com

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athletic news McKay named to coaches hall of fame After 26 years as the head coach of De La Salle Collegiate’s varsity golf team, and numerous coaching accolades, Doug McKay has been inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame. The September 15 ceremonies were on the Mt. Pleasant campus of Central Michigan University. McKay began coaching the Pilots in 1993, when his son Kevin was a player, and De La Salle was in need of a coach. McKay stuck around, and has coached the team to an impressive 23 Division 1 state final appearances. As a coach and teacher, McKay is known for his commitment to transforming boys into men, following the school motto: Builders of Boys. Makers of Men. He believes this knowledge helps him become an even better coach. His teams have a 135-53 dual meet record. McKay’s outstanding coaching has been recognized by his peers. He has been named coach of the year 11 times for his work in the Catholic League (three times), districts (two), regionals (five), and in 2008 he was the Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association’s Division 1 Coach of the Year.

Doug McKay

McKay is enshrined in three hall of fames - MIGCA (2016), Macomb County (2017), and Catholic League (2012). Other achievements include 15 Macomb County championships, nine all-state academic teams, six regional championships, four district titles, and three league crowns. The MHSCA is a 65-year-old association with nearly 12,000 members.

Pilots’ coaches in the Michigan High School Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame.

Ray Barr, ‘08 Al Baumgart, ‘89 Mike Jolly, ‘02 Brian Kelly, ‘09 Ross MacDonald, ‘13 Paul Verska, ‘17

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Coach McKay gives tips at the De La Salle Golf Summer Camp

athletic news New athletic website expands information. De La Salle Collegiate athletics now has its own website - DeLaSallePilots.com. Launched in late August, the new website covers all 13 sports programs, and also includes information on intramural program offerings. The comprehensive site contains press releases, contact information, feature stories, schedules, statistics, and more. De La Salle is the only Michigan high school to partner with Sidearm Sports, the leader in college athletic websites across the nation. The University of Michigan, Michigan State University, Eastern Michigan University, Western Michigan University, and several hundred other college and universities have also partnered with Sidearm.

Jolly to be inducted into national HOF The National High School Athletic Coaches Association the professional organization of school coaches and athletic directors, will induct Mike Jolly of De La Salle Collegiate into its National Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place July 22, 2020 at the Grand Hall of the Old Train Station at the Haymarket, in Lincoln, Nebraska during the NHSACA annual conference in which over 500 coaches and athletic directors will participate. Jolly, who coached Pilots lacrosse, will be one of the newest inductees into the NHSACA Hall of Fame. The selection and nomination for this award comes from coach’s sport associations and through the Michigan High School Coaches Association. The NHSACA Hall of Fame selection of Coach Jolly reflects positively upon the De La Salle community. Hall of Fame membership is based on the performance of their program over the years and/or their contribution to the

sport, school, and community. These were some of the criteria to determine the selection. It is indeed an honor to have Coach Jolly from De La Salle as an inductee for NHSACA Hall of Fame from the entire nation of honorees. The NHSACA is a 56-year-old Mike Jolly association with nearly 335,000 members serving as athletic administrators, high school and junior high/middle coaches in numerous schools throughout the United States. Partnered with the Michigan High School Coaches Association, and NHSACA works to promote the educational value of interscholastic athletics, the role of athletic administrators and coaches. The NHSACA and MHSCA are very proud to spotlight Mr. Mike Jolly, a person whose work and values best mirror those of the association.

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In Memoriam

1940

Bill Maskill, ‘41. November 12, 2019 More on page 37. John Morey, ‘45. January 29, 2019. Leonard Zontek, ‘46. December 5, 2019.

1950

George Buyse, SJ ‘54. October 11, 2019. William Fox, ‘50. February 6, 2020. More on page 35. Eugene Golab, ‘52. May 23, 2019. Jim Handloser, ‘50. May 7, 2019. Dale Hearth, SJ ‘52, August 11, 2019. Harry Josefiak, ‘51. September 28, 2019. Richard Jungwirth, ‘52. December 27, 2019. Loyal supporter of De La Salle. Former Board Member. Christian Brothers Dinner Honoree in 2009. Father of Richard Jungwirth, ‘86. Brother of Raymond Jungwirth ‘50, and Robert (Abe) Jungwirth, ‘54. John Singelyn, SJ ‘57. December 4, 2019. Brother of Mike Singelyn SJ ‘62. Uncle of Jim Singelyn ‘90, DLS teacher and swim coach. Charles Wagner, Sr., ‘50. October 13, 2019. Brother of Joseph Wagner ‘49 and Thomas Wagner ‘48.

1960

Robert Binkowski, ‘65. January 3, 2020. Father of Robert Binkowski ‘94. Joe Kaptur, SJ ‘60. January 1, 2020.

Extended family

Kenneth “King Sparty” Bacinski. October 19, 2019. Brother of retired faculty member Tom Bacinski. Brother Gabriel Fagan FSC. December 9, 2019. More on page 36 Kenneth Hinton. October 19, 2019. Stepfather of faculty member Aarran Meier. William Passalacqua. January 5, 2020. Bill was the father of Sal, SJ ‘63 Bernice Rigby. November 14, 2019. Grandmother of Josh Rigby ‘16 and Justin Rigby ‘17. Mother-inlaw of Laura Rigby, DLS teacher. John Schmid. January 24, 2020. More on page 37 Antoinette Skowronski. December 30, 2019. Mother of Dr. Raymond Skowronski, ‘74, and grandmother of Raymond Skowronski III, ‘15.

This list represents notifications received thru February 6, 2020. If you know of an alumnus or extended family member who has passed, please notify Dennis Koch in the Alumni Office at 586-541-6212 or dkoch@delasallehs.com.

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In Memoriam Bill Fox ‘50 Bill Fox ‘50, the alumnus who made history at De La Salle Collegiate nine years ago by giving the school its largestever donation, died Feb. 6, 2020 following a long illness. Fox was 87.

He bought his first dealership in Rochester Hills in 1967. A year later he added a body shop and expanded the used vehicle operation. A significant change came again in 1983 when Fox was awarded a Jeep-Eagle franchise. By 1984, a new facility was completed for Chevrolet and Jeep-Eagle settled in at the existing location. In 1991, a new collision center and used vehicle showroom were completed.

The $5 million donation from Fox is the largest in the school’s history and Bill Fox and Brother Bob Carnaghi in July, 2015 completed its 2004 capital campaign. The philanthropic gift was used to help with the A consistent benefactor, Fox has actively supported De construction of a chapel, academic wing, science labs, La Salle’s goal of making a Lasallian Catholic education music room, and extensive technological upgrades. affordable for all students. Fox and his 1950 classmate, The reason for the generous gift, Fox said during a Tony Mattar, were honorees at the school’s 24th annual check presentation, was the impact the school had on Christian Brothers Dinner in 2005. his own life. “Bill’s gift to the school in the early 2000s was a transformative donation, impacting the lives of future generations of Pilots,” De La Salle President John M. Knight said. “Bill loved the Christian Brothers and their lay partners. Please pray for the repose of Bill’s soul and the consolation of his family.” Today, the Fox name is prominently displayed throughout De La Salle, most notably in the school lobby, the Bill Fox Gymnasium and the Bill Fox Academic Wing. The academic wing is home to the science labs as well as the art and engineering departments. Fox was also a major donor to Rochester College, PBS, Beaumont (Crittenton Hospital), The Capuchin Soup Kitchen, the Rochester Rotary Club, and Leader Dogs for the Blind. Fox was one of Michigan’s most successful automotive dealers, with Chevrolet, Volkswagen, and Toyota dealerships in Rochester, and a Ford dealership in Battle Creek.

Then Fox reflected on his education at De La Salle.

“It seems just yesterday I was a student here, getting an education that was priceless,” he said. “One of our teachers, Br. Brendan Patrick, used to say at least once a day, ‘Be a tree. And if you can’t be a tree, be a bush. And if you can’t be a bush, be a blade of grass. But be the best at whatever you do.’ ” Fox was a devoted outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter and fly fisherman, sailor, and pilot. He was a charter member of Great Oaks Country Club and a snow skier. He turned countless friends and family on to these sports, especially at the family homes he created in Vail and Snowmass, Colorado. Fox’s Clam Lake home was his homage to his own father’s horse farm in Northern Michigan. A vast and beautiful retreat where extended family and friends could play, swim, fish, and hunt. Fox is survived by his wife, Shirlee, six children, 17 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

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In Memoriam Brother Gabe Fagan FSC Brother Gabriel Fagan, FSC, who had two teaching assignments at De La Salle Collegiate, passed away on Dec. 9 in New Jersey. He was 81. During 1961-70, his first classroom assignment was at the Detroit location as a religion, Latin, and English teacher. He returned to De La Salle in 2011, after several years as a college professor at Philadelphia’s La Salle University as a semi-retiree, teaching Latin until 2013. Brother Gabe had been in poor health the last few years, and moved to De La Salle Hall in Lincroft, N.J., in 2015. Brother Ken Kalinowski described Brother Gabe as a mudd monk, a term the brothers use to describe a brother who will go anywhere and do anything he is asked. “It means a brother who will die with his boots on, who is still out there doing,” Brother Ken said. “Gabe was everything from a teacher and administrator to vocation director and college professor. “Gabe could have retired anywhere. He was from New York, but his parents and brother had died, and he chose to return to De La Salle Collegiate because of the many friendships he had with alumni. He considered Detroit his home. And here he was teaching, well into his 70s, because he was a mudd monk.”. Born in New York City on June 5, 1938, he entered the Barrytown New York Novitiate on June 1957. He received the religious habit and name Brother Alben Gabriel in Sept. 1957, and pronounced his perpetual vows in Barrytown in 1963. He attended the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he earned a bachelor’s degree, and later, during the mid 70s, earned a doctorate at the University of Notre Dame.

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In addition to his time at De La Salle Collegiate, Brother Gabe also taught at Christian Brothers Academy in Albany, New York, and St. Mary’s College in Winona, Minnesota. “He was a very smart man, and was a hard and demanding teacher.” said Mark Wojcik ’69, who got to know Brother Gabe as the moderator of the basketball team. Wojcik recalled visiting Brother Gabe while he was at LaSalle University, and staying at the Christian Brothers’ house and attended the Army-Navy football game. The two stayed in touch until Brother Gabe left for Lincroft in 2015. Jeff Sadowski ’70, spoke with Brother Gabe as recently as two weeks ago. Although he was in failing health the last several years, and had some dementia, the two had conversations every 2-3 weeks. Like Wojcik, Sadowski also played basketball, and during his college years at Michigan he visited Brother Gabe at Notre Dame, along with other Pilots classmates, and enjoyed a football game and dinner out. Sadowski invited Brother Gabe to be his best man at his wedding, as well as godfather to his second son. “Brother Gabe had at least seven godsons,” Sadowski said, “and many lived near him in New Jersey, and visited him regularly.” There is a Brother Gabe Fagan Memorial Scholarship Fund on the De La Salle website, if you would like to donate in his memory and honor. https://www.delasallehs.com/alumni/support-de-la-salle/ scholarships.

In Memoriam John Schmid John Schmid, a longtime business teacher at De La Salle Collegiate, died on Jan. 24. He was 72.

Matt Chabot, an alumnus from 1988, added: “I did not fully appreciate how well he taught us until my first accounting class at MSU. He taught us college-level accounting, and I aced my first class because of him. I appreciate all he did for us and for the school.”

For the past few years, Schmid battled Lou Gehrig’s Disease. The former educator taught accounting, business law, and economics from 1975 to 2005 at De La Salle, where his wife, Debbie, was also a business teacher in the 90s.

In later years, Schmid went to part time, teaching an early-morning class before heading to John’s Lumber, where he worked as the company’s comptroller.

Schmid grew up in the Mount Clemens area and attended St. Louis the King High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Detroit. Alumni were quick to praise Schmid and his influence on their lives. “He is the teacher that piqued my interest in business, and also made me want to go into teaching,” said Dennis Koch, ‘94, De La Salle’s director of alumni relations. “I majored in business at Michigan State University, and joined the De La Salle staff in 2005 as a business teacher. That was John’s last year at De La Salle, and he was my department head. He was my mentor, and helped me grow in my teaching skills, particularly classroom management. He used to give daily quizzes, which kept students on their toes.”

“Every time I pass John’s Lumber on Gratiot, I think of him,” said Gary Hrydziuszko, ‘91. “Funny how little things like that stick with you.” Schmid is survived by his wife Debra, sons Aaron (‘93) and Michael (‘08), daughters Rebecca and Monica, and several grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes to the ALS Association, P.O. Box 37022, Boone, Iowa 50037, or Michigan Brain Bank, 400 North Ingalls Street, Room G179, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. If you would like to share your sympathies with the Schmid family, notes may be sent via De La Salle Collegiate, 14600 Common Rd., Warren, MI 48088.

Michigan coaching legend Bill Maskill ‘41, passed away on November 12. Once the winningest football coach in Michigan high school history, Maskill won four state championships, and amassed 274 wins before retiring in 1991. The majority of his coaching career was at Galesburg-Augusta. During his career he led teams to five undefeated seasons. Maskill was a member of the National High School Athletic Coaches Hall of Fame and the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame. As recently as this year, Maskill continued to hold an annual party at his home for former players and coaches. His son, Bill Maskill, Jr., head coach at Midwestern State University (Texas), said his father had walked a mile the day before his passing. “We all thought he would live forever.”

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Save the Date For the opportunity to celebrate Mass with your son at De La Salle Collegiate. Friday, April 3, 2020 Father/Son Mass Friday, May 1, 2020 Mother/Son Mass Contact Joe Girardi at jgirardi@delasallehs.com to RSVP.