Summer 2022 Odyssey Magazine

Fr. Ronny O’Dwyer, S.J., was formally missioned as De Smet Jesuit’s President by the Very Reverend Thomas P. Greene, S.J., Provincial Superior of the Jesuits’ Central and Southern Province, during the all-school Mass of the Holy Spirit on August 25. It was a day of celebration, with more than 100 alumni, parents, and friends attending Mass as guests. Students concluded the day with a spirited outdoor assembly in the stadium (pictured at right).

Shown on the cover with Fr. O’Dwyer are sophomores Justin King (at left) and John Mills.

PHOTO BY LP CREATIVE STUDIO

Dear Parents, Alumni, and Friends of De Smet Jesuit

You would have been so proud of De Smet during your school’s opening Mass of the Holy Spirit on August 25.

Each student wore a commemorative t-shirt with the Jesuit motto “A.M.D.G.” in bold letters over his shoulder. Students read intentions in Latin, Mandarin, and Spanish to symbolize the global scope of a Jesuit education. Sixteen priests concelebrated the Mass. Many were Jesuits, along with our alumni who serve as priests for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

After the homily, in a traditional ceremony shared by Jesuit high schools around the country, Fr. Thomas P. Greene, S.J., the top Jesuit in our region, missioned me as President of De Smet Jesuit High School. In the presence of my priest-confreres, our students, staff, parents, and alumni, I promised to uphold our school’s Catholic, Jesuit mission.

For me, it was a moment of profound responsibility. For our school, it was a visible sign of our connection to the larger, global mission of Jesuit secondary education. The Jesuit legacy in secondary education began with St. Ignatius 500 years ago and has grown to include nearly 800 Jesuit schools serving some 800,000 students around the world.

In my remarks after communion, I asked everyone to consider the fundamental question: Where is God calling De Smet?

In response to that question, the Board of Trustees recently declared four strategic pillars:

n Deepening our Catholic, Jesuit identity.

n Committing to academic excellence and critical thinking.

n Forming well-rounded leaders.

n Building a community where every qualified family can finance a De Smet education.

I need your help to bring these pillars to life.

De Smet must remain committed to its mission as a Jesuit education rooted in Gospel values, where students have a tangible experience of God and are encouraged to grow as well-rounded young men. Academics are important. So are athletics, co-curricular activities, retreats, and clubs, which aim to create a community where each student feels at home.

And so, my inaugural message is this: Consider our world. You know that a Jesuit education is needed now more than ever. Our students depend on your support, and this is a special moment in the history of our school. Don’t miss the opportunity to play a part. The best is yet to come!

For De Smet Jesuit, Fr. Ronny O’Dwyer, S.J.

PRESIDENT

“ Where is God calling De Smet? ”

KEVIN BERNS ’87

Life at De Smet Jesuit

EXPECTATIONS

The Class of 2026 took victory laps around the track to culminate a new five-day Odyssey experience that offered time to build brotherhood and learn what it means to be a Spartan. Fr. O’Dwyer, S.J., summed up our hopes for these freshmen perfectly in his homily during their first Mass: “Your job these next four years is to help each other become the men God invites you to be.”

HeadlinersOdyssey

The World is Our House

FACULTY AND STAFF REPRESENT AT JESUIT SCHOOLS NETWORK COLLOQUIUM

BY PETE MUSSO, ED.D.

Jerónimo Nadal, a companion of St. Ignatius (founder of the Society of Jesus) proclaimed: “We (Jesuits) are not monks. The world is our cloister! The world is our house!” His words invite us to connect what happens on Ballas Road to the broader world in which we live — making those connections real and palpable for students we teach. Seventeen De Smet Jesuit colleagues who traveled to Loyola Marymount University (LMU) in mid-June were inspired to do just that.

During the week-long Jesuit Schools Network triennial colloquium on Jesuit secondary and pre-secondary education, they connected with more than 350 Ignatian educators from across the U.S. and Canada to celebrate their vocation as educators in Jesuit schools. The week was thoughtfully framed by keynote speakers who provided context for the Jesuit Universal Apostolic Preferences (UAPs) — vital orientations for the Society of Jesus and apostolates over a 10-year span — as interrelated cries of the world that we need to be attentive to in our school.

to focus completely on the speaker’s words).

BRIAN REYES

SHOWING THE WAY TO GOD

The first and foundational UAP that is lived through the practice of the next three. The reflective questions for each UAP will guide future work at De Smet Jesuit.

GILLES MONGEAU, S.J., Socius to the Provincial, Canada Province

WORKING WITH THE MARGINALIZED

Who is stuck behind closed doors and how can we be present to the excluded in our school, the region, and the world? How can we use our power and influence to create communities of hospitality?

JOANNA WILLIAMS, Executive Director of the Kino Boarder Initiative - Nogales, AZ

ACCOMPANYING YOUTH

How is our Jesuit school a safe, sacred space for everyone? How can the Profile of the Graduate at Graduation be a framework for student accompaniment?

WILLIAM PARHAM, Ph.D., Professor of Counseling, LMU

CARE FOR OUR COMMON HOME

What daily strategies can we model for students that lead us to greater stewardship of our earth? How can we approach individual and institutional decisions from this stewardship lens?

DUSTIN LIU, Teaching Fellow, Harvard University

Colloquium participants attended Mass, shared meals, and spent time living in community. They practiced radical listening (pausing personal thoughts to focus completely on the speaker’s words) during spiritual conversations and identified feelings of consolation, as well as challenges, related to their mission-centered work now and in the future.

At left: (kneeling, from left) Pete Musso ’89, Tony Plein, Howie Place, Matt Mohan ’82, and Adam Boehm; (standing, from left) Carrie Becher, Lisa Knabe, Lisa Mosquera, Laurie Kohler, Gene Bender, Debbie Higgins, Ray Sherrock, Peter Lenzini, Kennedy Phillips, and Maria Lang

Farewell, Friends

HONORING RETIRING FACULTY AND STAFF

In May, De Smet Jesuit bid farewell to retiring faculty and staff with well wishes and messages of gratitude during two special events: an open house for members of the school community and a faculty-staff luncheon to conclude the school year. Congratulations, retirees, and thank you for your countless contributions to De Smet!

MATT CREAMER (38 years of service)

“Your work elevates everything we do. Every gear that needs to turn is made possible because of the work you put into it.”

KURT KNOEDELSEDER (11 years of service)

“He recognizes the impor tance of cura personalis . He’s never given anything less than his care, respect, kindness, and wisdom.”

MICHELE NEARY (25 years of service)

kindness has been a daily reminder of why we are here. You always have the right words, and I speak for everyone when I say we love you and we will miss you.”

JOHN PUKALA (5 years of service)

always shows up for me. My wish is for everyone to have a Linda Sodemann.”

JIM WALSH ’76 (41 years of service)

“This spring is Jim’s 90th semester at De Smet if you count his time as a student. It boggles the mind when you think of the number of lives he’s touched in 41 years.

At right: (from left) Kurt Knoedelseder, Michele Neary, Jim Walsh, Lil Morlock, Linda Sodemann, and John Pukala; not pictured: Matt Creamer and Bro. Hank Welch, S.J.

LIL MORLOCK (20 years of service)

“She knows what matters most and fights to protect it. She is a mother to many who stops everything to be present in the moment.”

“Even after surgery, John would be out on his golf cart working to prepare fields for games. He was also Dr. Phil for coaches, always listening and giving sound advice.”

LINDA SODEMANN (3 years of service)

“I need her profession ally because she calms me, challenges me, and

the end of an era.”

BRO. HANK WELCH, S.J. (33 years of service)

“He worked quietly and diligently seven days a week and was happiest receiving friendship, a plate of cookies, and a cold Dr. Pepper.”

Gaining Momentum

SUPPORT FOR SPARTAN FUND REACHES RECORD LEVELS

The De Smet Jesuit community rallied to give at unprecedented levels during the 2021–2022 Spartan Fund campaign. The generosity of alumni, parents, and friends set new records and helped the advancement team raise $3.2 million by the conclusion of the fiscal year on June 30.

Some of the highlights included:

BOOTS AND BOW TIES AUCTION

De Smet Jesuit’s Boots and Bow Ties auction on March 5 set two new records — drawing more than 600 guests and raising $836,000 for students. Co-Chairs Marjorie Huggins and Suzy Sindelar, along with their tireless committee of volunteers, made the evening the social event of the year as attendees were thrilled to celebrate in person for the first time in two years.

SOLD OUT TRADITION GOLF TOURNAMENT

More than 200 alumni, current parents, and friends supported the 2021 Tradition Golf Tournament as players, sponsors, volunteers, and donors of silent auction items. In total, the sellout Tradition raised $72,220.

GIVING TUESDAY

An anonymous $100K

challenge inspired Pat and Leo Saenger (parents of Chuck ’92 and Susan) to offer a second $100K challenge if the community could raise $200K by Giving Tuesday on November 30. That was all the motivation alumni, parents, and friends needed to cross the finish line with more than $511,800 from 962 donors raised for the Spartan Fund by day’s end.

The generosity of alumni, parents, and friends set new records and helped the advancement team raise $3.2 million.

Major Gift, Major Impact

CLASSROOM RENOVATION PROJECT UNDERWAY

In the fall of 2021, De Smet Jesuit received a $1 million gift from the estate of Greg Pohlman ’78 (pictured at left) that became the catalyst for a classroom renovation project. Construction is under way to upgrade technology, flooring, and furniture in classrooms on the first floor. “We are beginning with theology classrooms so that these renovations will have an immediate impact on every student,” said Principal Kevin Poelker ’98.

Following the news of Greg Pohlman’s passing on February 21, 2021, he was aptly described as “a truly extraordinary gentleman.” Mr. Pohlman was the kind of supporter every school needs, someone who always said “yes” when asked to support school priorities. “Greg epitomized what we hope each of our graduates will become,” said Steve Burr, De Smet’s CFO. “He was a man for others who set an example through selfless action.” Mr. Pohlman also gave of his time in numerous capacities, balancing his work as CEO of The Pohlman CPA Group, LLC, with two stints on De Smet’s Board of Trustees. At the time of his passing, he held the role of Board Chair.

A 1978 Man of the Year and member of De Smet Jesuit’s Hall of Fame, Mr. Pohlman received the Pierre-Jean De Smet S.J. Outstanding Service Award from the Board of Trustees as well as the Fr. Pierre De Smet S.J. Statue, for exemplary generosity, in 2019. “There is no significant aspect of my life — personal or professional — that De Smet Jesuit has not influenced to make me a better person,” he once shared when asked why he chose to give back to his alma mater. He believed his support of De Smet made a significant difference in the lives of students and their families. “My investment in De Smet Jesuit pays dividends — dividends that help build God’s kingdom. I can think of no better investment.”

The first-floor classroom renovation project is just the beginning. The 2022–2023 Spartan Fund Campaign, which raises funds to provide the total De Smet experience for every student, has an ambitious fundraising goal of $3.2 million. Your continued generosity will make possible further enhancements to De Smet Jesuit’s programs and facilities.

Spartan Strong

WINTER AND SPRING TEAMS GIVE FANS THRILLING VICTORIES

WINTER

Basketball

The 19-9 Spartans were a mainstay in STLToday’s Top 10 large schools ranking, earning as high as #2 in the state. With one of the toughest schedules in the state, they outscored opponents by 14 points, averaged 67 points per game, and gave up an average 53 points per game. Season highlights included winning the Circle 7 Showdown for the fourth straight year, defeating defending state champion Cardinal Ritter in the home opener, and being the only team to beat Westminster in the regular season. Brian Taylor ’22 (below) became the 16th Spartan to join the 1,000-point club. He was named to the All-State Team for the second straight year and 1st Team All-MCC for the third time. Justin Duff ’23 set a school record with eight three-pointers in one game and earned 2nd Team All-MCC. Jemeal Goines ’22 earned Honorable Mention All-MCC and led the league in rebounding and double-doubles. Brennan Lovette ’22 made the MCC All-Academic Team.

Bowling

Head Coaches: Brian Fenelli and Melvin Kennedy, @DeSmet_Bowling In 2021–2022, the De Smet bowling team welcomed five new members and finished sixth in the Central Division. Leading the way for the Spartans were Ben Kinealy ’23 (below), with a Mid-America League-high average of 209, and Jayden Roach ’24, with a league second-best average of 203. League honors went to Ben for his league-best average and Jayden for his league-best series of 721. Also contributing to the team effort this season were Kalle Evjen ’23, Evan McEvoy ’23, Jay Sorrell ’23, Clark Chamberlin ’24, Andrew Davis ’24, and Kevin Pina ’24.

Hockey

Head Coach: Chris Durso, @desmethockeystl

As a fourth seed heading into the Mid States Hockey Playoffs, the Spartans advanced to the finals with a thrilling shootout victory over CBC. Though they fell short to SLUH in the finals, the Spartans’ seniors wrapped up their careers with two consecutive championship game appearances. Brady Govero ’23 and Vito Biondo ’22 earned 1st Team All-Metro, and Tyler Loughman ’22 earned 3rd Team All-Metro.

Wrestling

Head Coach: Drae Cox, @DeSmetWrestling

Spartan wrestlers did well as a young team this season. They competed in five individual tournaments and 18 dual competitions, compiling a 7-11 record in duals this season. The team did an excellent job progressing over the course of the year, which led to a top five team finish at the MSHSAA District Wrestling tournament, and three individual state qualifiers. Evan Rolwes ’24 joined state placers Rickson Taylor ’23, who finished sixth, and Jesse Hahs ’22 (all pictured above), who completed his school career as a three-time state placer and a state runner-up.

KALLE EVJEN ’23

JOHN HAWKEY

CARRIE BECHER

Head Coach: Kent Williams, @DeSmetBBall

COLLEGE COMMITS

17 Spartans Sign Letters of Intent

Congratulations to these student athletes from the Class of 2022 who are continuing their academic and athletic careers at the next level.

Chris Anderson – Lacrosse Cleveland State University

Gavin Bomstad – Lacrosse Tampa University

Jordan Coleman – Football Ball State University

Darian Crisp – Baseball Heartland Community College

Caleb Dunbar – Water Polo McKendree University

Kyle Granquist – Lacrosse Centre College

Cooper Howell – Baseball Lindenwood University

Jermaine Jackson – Football Illinois College

Ty Monschein – Soccer Westminster College

Kyler Paddock – Lacrosse Rockhurst University

Nick Panagos – Baseball Drury University

Kaleb Purdy – Football University of Kansas

Chris Skiljan – Football University of Central Missouri

Blake Skornia – Golf Southern Illinois UniversityCarbondale

Khalid Stewart – Football Lindenwood University

Brian Taylor – Basketball University of WisconsinMilwaukee

Alex Tomasella – Soccer William Jewell College

(Sitting, from left) Kyle Granquist, Gavin Bomstad, Kyler Paddock, Brian Taylor, Jordan Coleman, Kaleb Purdy, and Khalid Stewart: (standing, from left) Caleb Dunbar, Cooper Howell, Nick Panagos, Alex Tomasella, Darian Crisp, Ty Monschein, Blake Skornia, Chris Anderson, Chris Skiljan, and Jermaine Jackson

Racquetball

Head Coach: Brendan Giljum, @DeSmetRball

The Spartan racquetball players had a strong year, with their top team placing fourth in state and finishing in ninth place at Nationals. Seniors Christopher Beason, Josh Williams, Matthew Schulze, and Raymond Knapp were big contributors to the team’s success and fun but hard-working team environment. The team looks forward to improving on results next year and hopes to welcome more new players!

Baseball

Head Coach: Tim Canavan, @DeSmet_Baseball

The Spartans came into the 2022 season with a new coaching staff, a new culture, and high expectations, despite a very young varsity roster that featured eight first-year starters. Notwithstanding their youth, the Spartans finished tied for second in the Metro Catholic Conference and improved in virtually all statistical categories from the previous year. Leading the way offensively were seniors Liam Risley, Darian Crisp, and Cooper Howell, and junior Luke Burns. On the mound, juniors Josh Cunningham (below), Sam Cardwell, and Jason Smith led a deep and talented pitching staff.

Golf

Head Coach: Dan Likos ’94, @DeSmetGolf

The defending state champions moved up to Class 5 for the 2022 season and finished ninth as a team at state.

Colby Sauer ’23 won fourth place in the individual round of state competition. The Spartans also earned second place finishes in the Columbia Classic and the Webster Cup. Blake Skornia ’22 (above) won first place in the Webster Cup’s individual competition.

KATHY

DEBBIE

Lacrosse

Head Coach: Joe Douglas, @DeSmetLacrosse Spartan Lacrosse finished as runner-up in the state championship for the third consecutive year and qualified for the semifinals for the seventh straight time. Chris Anderson ’22 became the seventh Spartan in seven years to earn All-American honors. Gavin Bomstad ’22 (above) and Kyle Granquist ’22 were named Academic All-Americans, becoming the fourth and fifth Spartans to earn the honor in the last seven years.

Inline Hockey

Head Coach: Dan Watkins, @DeSmetInline

The in-line hockey teams had a solid year for growth with 35 boys, including three freshmen. The varsity team finished 8-6, earning fifth place. The JV squad finished in third place with an 11-3 record. The C team had a lot of close games but finished in sixth place with a 3-11 record. Seniors Vito Biondo and Jonah Watkins represented De Smet in the MOIHA varsity All-Star game at the end of the season.

Tennis

Head Coach: Mike O’Brien, @DeSmetTennis

The tennis team brought a good mix of experienced and new players to the court this spring. Led by senior co-captains Bryce Pattison (below) and Ethan Selkirk, the Spartans compiled a 4-6 record with three rainouts and competed against some of the top players in the state from Class 1, 2, and 3. The Spartans earned third place at the MCC tournament, and all MCC tournament players medaled for the second consecutive year.

Track and Field

Head Coaches: Michael Russo and Bryan Traughber ’97, @DeSmetTrackXC

The track and field team completed one of its most successful seasons in recent memory, placing second in districts for the first time in more than a decade, sending six events to state. Senior Brian Taylor shattered a 20-year-old school record in the long jump (23’ 9.5”), and sophomore Mike Phillips broke a 50-year-old school record in the shot put (52’ 11.5”), earning All-State honors for the second consecutive year. Freshman Justin Thurman led the sprint team, turning heads with a PR of 10.87 in the 100m dash, while juniors Christian Gray and Sherodd Tate (above), and seniors Curtis Mayes and Khalid Stewart also qualified for the state championship meet.

KATHY

Ultimate Frisbee

Head Coach: Peter Lenzini, @ DeSmetUltimate

The Spartans compiled a 6-2 record in league play and finished second in the state tournament. Season highlights included a thrilling state semifinal victory over Edwardsville — a great comeback following a regular-season loss — and the team’s first opportunity to travel (to Indianapolis) in more than two years. Senior leaders Jack Bednarek, Colin Brunts, Shane Concannon, Jackson Hogan, Ethan Milnes (above), August Waller, and Logan Wen set the tone all season, with Brunts and Milnes earning recognition as League All-Stars. The Spartans are well-positioned for future success, with a strong rising junior class and talented upperclassmen coming up the ranks.

Water Polo

Head Coach: Taylor Swyers, @PoloDeSmet

Led by senior captains Harry King and Gabe Lasek, the varsity squad advanced to the state quarterfinals and finished with an 18-6 record. Ranked third in the Missouri Water Polo Coaches’ Poll, the Spartans had four All-Conference honorees: Caleb Dunbar ’22 and Gabe Lasek ’22 (1st Team); Thomas Dolan ’23 and Carson Golomski ’23 (2nd Team) (at right). All-District and All-State honorees were Caleb Dunbar (1st Team); Gabe Lasek and Carson Golomski (3rd Team); and Thomas Dolan (Honorable Mention). Oliver Nichols ’24 broke the school record, and led the state, with 94 assists in a single season. Caleb Dunbar set a school record with 12 goals in a single game. Caleb was also second in the state with 123 goals scored in the season.

Volleyball

Head Coach: Timothy Haffner, @DeSmetJesuitVB

The Spartans advanced to the state semifinal to culminate a thrilling 28-7-1 season. Highlights included winning the Francis Howell Central Tournament to begin the season, a second place Metro Catholic Conference finish, and the Class 3, District 1 Championship. The roster of 13 featured two freshmen, three sophomores, five juniors, and three seniors — and included three pairs of brothers.

STEVE WEN

JACOB LORIMIER ’22

You Mattered Here

SENDING FORTH THE CLASS OF 2022

GRADUATION IS ALWAYS BITTERSWEET.

Families, friends, faculty, and staff feel tremendous joy and pride for the hard work, growth, and resilience graduates have shown to reach this significant milestone. But there’s some sadness, too, for the loss of the daily presence of these young men who touched us with their unique gifts, energy, and spirit.

On May 15, the school community gathered to celebrate the 169 members of the Class of 2022 during De Smet Jesuit’s 52nd commencement exercises at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis.

“The most important lesson De Smet Jesuit taught you boils down to three words: love one another,” De Smet’s president, Fr. Ronny O’Dwyer, S.J., said during his homily. “You mattered here. Your presence made a difference. You belonged — and still do belong to one other. Each of you was necessary. Each of you made a difference.”

Graduates of the Class of 2022 received acceptances to 153 colleges and universities and were awarded $25.9 million in scholarships. Sixteen class members are sons of De Smet Jesuit alumni.

To close his homily, Fr. O’Dwyer challenged graduates, “Go and be the kind of men who use their gifts and talents to make the world as great as it is supposed to be.”

We know you’ll make us proud, Class of 2022. Our love and prayers go with you.

PHOTOS BY CARRIE

WHERE NOTED)

Above: (from left) Conall Eigelberger, Darian Crisp, and Shane Concannon

At right: Joshua Williams (valedictorian) and Ryan Voelker (salutatorian)

Center: A last glance from James Zippay as the procession of graduates makes its way to church

KABANCE PHOTO SERVICES

the Class of 2022’s

on May 15. Special thanks to

Brian Flavin

graduates as the newest

FR. RON WINDMUELLER, S.J.,

Daniel Likos

COLLEGE AND CAREER BOUND

Class of 2022 alumni are pursuing the following opportunities. We wish them much happiness and success!

Aquinas College - 1

Ball State University - 1

Belmont University - 3

Bradley University - 2

Centre College - 1

Cleveland State University - 1

Creighton University - 2

Drury University - 1

Emergency Technicians Training-St. Louis - 1

Fisk University - 1

Fontbonne University - 2

Fordham University - 1

Heartland Community College - 1 Illinois College - 1

Illinois University - 1

Indiana University-Bloomington - 3 Indiana University-Purdue UniversityIndianapolis - 1

Junior Hockey League (Alberta) - 2

Kenrick-Glennon Seminary - 1

Lindenwood University - 2

Louisiana State University - 1

Loyola Marymount University - 1 Loyola University-Chicago - 1 Maryville University - 2

MeKendree University - 1 Miami University of Ohio - 2

Mid-America Carpenters Union - 1

Milwaukee School of Engineering - 1 Missouri S & T - 3

Missouri State University - 8 Morehouse College - 1

North American Tier 3 Hockey - 1

North American Tier 3 Hockey League for the Peoria Mustangs - 1

Northern Arizona University - 1 Pensacola Christian College - 1 Purdue University - 1

Ranken Technical College of High Performance Racing Technology - 1

MEN OF THE YEAR

Chosen by vote of their classmates and teachers, Men of the Year have distinguished themselves through their consistent dedication, leadership, enthusiasm, and hard work on behalf of their class and the entire De Smet Jesuit community. The Men of the Year Award, first bestowed on members of the Class of 1974, is one of the highest honors a De Smet Jesuit student can receive.

Congratulations to our 2022 Men of the Year: (front row, from left) Tyron Woodley, Alexander Rodriguez, Thomas Hashbarger, and Lewis Worthy III; (back row, from left)

Bryce Pattison, Jacob Fahland, Nicholas Abel, Cole Grothoff, Jesse Hahs, Kyle Granquist, Brady Schmidt, and Christopher Beason

Rend Lake College - 1

Saint Louis University - 15 School of the Art Institute of Chicago - 1 Southeast Missouri State University - 2 Southern Illinois University-Carbondale - 1 St. Charles Community College - 3 St. Louis Community College - 4

Tennessee State University - 1 Texas Southern University - 1 Truman State University - 4 Undecided - 3 United States Air Force - 1

United States Naval Academy Appointment - 1 University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa - 1 University of Arkansas - 10 University of Central Missouri - 1 University of Cincinnati - 1 University of Dayton - 12 University of Indiana-Bloomington - 1 University of Iowa - 1 University of Kansas - 5 University of Kentucky - 1 University of Minnesota-Twin Cities - 1 University of Mississippi - 1 University of Missouri-Columbia - 25 University of Notre Dame - 3 University of Tampa - 1 University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - 1

Valparaiso University - 1 Washburn Institute of Technology - 1

Western Kentucky University - 1 Westminster College - 2

William Jewell College - 1 Xavier University - 2 Xavier University of Louisiana - 1

GRAND TOTAL  169

FROM SPARTAN TO PLEBE

Jesse Hahs ’22 grows as a leader

Jesse Hahs ’22 started wrestling at age five. His love for the sport grew because “my success or failure in a match was up to me. Successful wrestlers must do the right things everywhere, so I learned to be disciplined. That has served me well in all aspects of my life.”

That might be an understatement.

When Jesse graduated from De Smet Jesuit in May, he did so with acceptances to the U.S. Naval Academy, West Point, and the Merchant Marines Academy. He also graduated with well-deserved honors, including Man of the Year, St. Louis PostDispatch Scholar Athlete, Wrestling State Qualifier, and National Chinese Honor Society President.

When his family committed to making the 60-mile round-trip drive to De Smet from their Illinois home every day, Jesse committed to making the most of his high school experience. He developed a passion for the study of Chinese and was quick to get involved, becoming a student leader for the President’s Ambassadors. For his junior service project, he chose the World Bird Sanctuary and loved the work so much that he exceeded his requirement by more than 300 hours, taking shifts until he left for basic training.

And, of course, there was wrestling. Jesse finished his De Smet wrestling career with a 107-21 record and three consecutive appearances at state, finishing in a career-best second place in 2022. “Jesse exemplifies what we hope for in our students for his many accomplishments, but most importantly because of his ability to commit to a higher calling and bring others up along with him on his journey,” said Head Wrestling Coach Aedryan Cox.

Jesse has begun his plebe year at the Naval Academy, where he is “looking forward to the opportunities that come from such a high level of education as well as learning what it means to be a real leader.” He is interested in continuing his study of Chinese and exploring the field of nuclear engineering.

Fire Breathing &

S

Eight years ago, Christine Tseng took her students to a Kung Fu class for the first time. The following year she invited them to a local Chinese restaurant where they began the annual tradition of ordering lunch while practicing their new language. Competitive MahJong tournaments launched in 2019 along with bubble tea time, and red paper lanterns started to hang from the hallway ceilings in 2021.

She just doesn’t stop. So her students just keep going.

This year she added rockets, a parade, and a dragon.

“My role was to build the body,” said Will Gloriod ’23, referring to the 15-foot dragon that students designed, constructed, and deco rated for the Lunar New Year. On a February morning, Will and his fellow builders stood under the dragon, lofted the prop sticks that maneuvered the rolling body, then paraded loudly through the school. Spartans poured out of classrooms to cheer on the celebration, smiling at the surprise parade, and catching the candy thrown by their classmates wearing red shirts.

“We took turns being the leaders,” said J.T. Depke ’23 describing the project. Along with other classmates, he helped Reyli Rico ’23 and Mason Schneier ’23, the two primary craftsmen behind making the dragon head. “Decorating the body…attaching and crafting the legs and tail to the body...I liked the energy that surrounded the parade,” said J.T. “It felt like there was a true sense of the Chinese community, and to be a part of that was very special.”

What began in 2013 as the first Mandarin Chinese class in De Smet history has now evolved into a student favorite entering its 10th year — a world language class rich in culture and strong in academic mastery. Advanced students can earn the prestigious National Chinese Honors status and the right to don the purple cord with their graduation gown, and many enter college with at least five (and up to 15) language credit hours. Although the class wasn’t around when he was at De Smet, Dave Bussmann ’71 later immersed himself and has now lived more than half his life in Asia. In early January he spoke (via Zoom) with Chinese 4 students to share his experi ences and insight on how to become proficient in Chinese.

“It can be challenging to overcome the preconceived notions of Chinese being very difficult to learn,” said Mrs. Tseng. Connecting alumni like Mr. Bussmann ’71 and upperclassmen with newer learners reinforces her commitment to inspiring freshmen and developing leaders. Each year seniors run a meeting for all four grade levels to share tips on how to study and succeed in the demanding classes. Sophomores compete for the coveted title of Fried Rice Iron Chef

by submitting a cooking video where they prepare fried rice for their families, all while speaking Chinese. Winning videos serve as teaching tools for the next year. Mrs. Tseng rewards her students richly with compassion, high standards, recognition, and even traditional gifts such as lucky red paper envelopes, egg rolls, and oranges. She throws an ever-grow ing party for her seniors before they leave campus, this year’s culminat ing with confetti rockets that students launched in celebration. In return, students develop a steady undercurrent of loyalty to Mrs. Tseng and the Chinese program.

“My first year, we started with 13 students,” she said. “Now we have a community of eager learners. We have an Asia club for students who want to experience more. We take field trips, practice calligraphy, fold origami, work on activities…it is wonderful to hear that several students are so taken by this experience that they choose a college minor in Mandarin.”

Embedded into our school’s mission is the call for teachers to inspire and prepare, for students to transform the world. These lofty goals are on full display in room 113, especially watching seniors on their last day. Standing tall by their desks, every senior fluently recites the Lord’s Prayer in Chinese, then prays an additional blessing as desired for his loved ones. Most add a prayer of gratitude to La ˇ osh ī (“teacher”). To each, she bows her head Xièxiè (“thank you”).

No prompts or notes are needed. They know what they’re doing. They’re confident in their skills. Devoted to this teacher. They are inspired and committed to give back to this school. They can cook a meal, fold an origami note, and cut a video in a second language.

They are ready to lead parades, launch rockets, and basically set the world on fire. They’ll build their own dragon if they need to.

MANDARIN CHINESE PROGRAM ENTERS 10TH YEAR

BY CARRIE BECHER

At top: Seniors in Chinese 4 enjoy the Kung Fu field trip.

Above: Chinese 2 students handcraft red paper lanterns.

At left: The Lunar New Year dragon led the schoolwide parade and fostered community.

Mrs. Tseng holds a gong from Class of 2022.

Why Give WE

The Weber family’s De Smet legacy began in 1977.

In 1977, the Weber family started its long-standing relationship with De Smet Jesuit High School. Richard William Weber Sr., SLUH class of 1959, and his wife, Jacky, insisted their sons also receive a Jesuit education. Rick ’81 led the way, followed by Tim ’82, Mike ’86, and Dan ’90.

Each of the four boys achieved degrees, two MDs, three DDSs and one JD. Tim was president of the Alumni Association from 2018–2020. Dan was co-chair of the Tradition Golf Tournament from 2017–2019, raising record figures each year, and currently sits on the school’s Finance Committee.

There has been a son or grandson of Richard Weber Sr. at De Smet for a total of 32 out of the school’s 55 years — 10 alumni in total. The Webers are proud of their Spartan heritage for many reasons.

“De Smet is special to us. Our parents made lifelong friendships with other De Smet families. The community is rooted in traditional Catholic values and has helped nurture our founda tion of faith,” said Dan. “The school mantra, Men for Others, provides us all with an ideal to strive for each day. De Smet’s traditions of graduating wellrounded men sets it apart from other schools. These core elements continue to inspire us to remain involved and provide support. We are blessed to be part of the De Smet Jesuit community.”

As Alumni Association presi dent, Tim established the Alumni Legacy Scholarship in 2018, which provides $1,000 to every alumnus who sends his son to De Smet Jesuit. With the goal of creating a lasting impact for De Smet legacies, the scholar ship demonstrates how important alumni and their sons are to the school’s future. Tim’s vision was simple: “De Smet alums want to provide their sons with the same foundational experience they carry throughout their lives.”

The Alumni Legacy Scholar ship is funded by both individual donations and profits from the Alumni Association’s Ed Nestor Memorial Spartan Trivia Night and has awarded more than $86,000 to legacy families. The Webers are excited about its sustainability. After Richard Weber Sr. passed away in February 2022, his wife requested that all donations made in Richard’s memory be directed to the Alumni Legacy Scholarship.

Richard and Jacky Weber started a family legacy by send ing their sons to De Smet Jesuit, and now they are passing on those gifts to benefit the school and alumni community.

For more information about how to support De Smet Jesuit and the Alumni Legacy Scholar ship, please contact Pat Morris, Director of Alumni Engagement, at pmorris@desmet.org. And save the date of February 4, 2023, for the Ed Nestor Memorial Trivia Night at De Smet Jesuit.

“ De Smet is special to us.

De Smet’s traditions of graduating well-rounded men sets it apart from other schools. ”

“ De Smet alums want to provide their sons with the same foundational experience they carry throughout their lives. ”

(From left, Dan, Tim, Rick and Mike Weber)

ANN WEBER

Alumni Connect

HOOPS HISTORY

Basketball alumni returned to campus in February to celebrate the 50+ year tradition of Spartan basketball. They enjoyed a pre-game reception, watching the Spartans defeat Chaminade 77–61, and a halftime ceremony honoring past head basketball coaches. Pictured above with Fr. Ronny O’Dwyer, S.J., are, from left, Bob Steiner, Rich Grawer, Dale Burgman, and Kevin Poelker ’98. Not pictured is Blake Ahearn ’03, who was unable to attend because of his coaching commitment with the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies.

19 70s

Ken Klump ’79 was inducted into the Greater St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame on April 14, 2022. He played in the minor leagues for the Minnesota Twins and was an exceptional starting pitcher for Southern Illinois UniversityCarbondale. The Greater St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame was founded in 1973 to honor players, coaches, and contributors who have helped amateur baseball ourish in the Gateway City. Congratulations, Ken!

80s

Congratulations to Frank Cusumano ’80, who was inducted into the St. Louis Sports Hall of Fame on May 2, 2022. A 2018 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Induct ee, Cusumano (pictured here with his wife, Monique) has worked at KSDK 5 On Your Side in St. Louis since 1993 and has won 19 Emmys, including best sports anchor, and an Edward R. Murrow Award. During his broadcast ing career, he has covered it all, from the World Series and the Super Bowl to the Stanley Cup and the NCAA Final Four. He received the Jack Buck Award from the St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame in 2017 and has hosted the Pressbox radio program on KFNS for 25 years.

MERS Goodwill appointed Mark Arens ’91 as president and CEO in April 2022. In this capacity, Arens leads the agency, which operates in 46 locations serving 89 counties in the bi-state area and helps nearly 11,000 individuals per year. His previous work for MERS Goodwill includes serving as coordinator of evaluation and

adjustment and

director of Lippman Career Center Services. In 2018, Arens was named superintendent of the Goodwill Excel Centers when MERS Goodwill opened the rst three of its four adult high schools.

DE SMET JESUIT HALL OF FAME NEWS

2022 De Smet Jesuit Hall of Fame Inductees

In May, the De Smet Jesuit Hall of Fame Committee announced the selection of the 2022 inductees: Greg DiBlasi, Mark Guyol ’78, and Brother Hank Welch, S.J.

Look for coverage of their induction ceremony on desmet.org and in the next issue of Odyssey magazine.

Colonel Judson Dressler ’01 received an appointment from President Biden to become the permanent professor and head of the Department of Computer and Cyber Sciences at the United States Air Force Academy. With this appointment came an automatic promotion to the rank of colonel, making Dressler one of the youngest colonels in the Air Force. Colonel Dressler’s department teaches more than 1200 cadets per year and is home to the Academy Center for Cyberspace Research, which conducts long-term research in areas such as autonomy, arti cial intelligence, immersive environments, and cyber security. His family was on hand for the promotion ceremony in August. Congratulations, Colonel Dressler!

CROSS COUNTRY ALUMNI RUN

Alumni representing 16 classes participated in the annual Cross Country Alumni Run, racing the 1600 and 3200 on De Smet’s track on August 11. Thanks for continuing to support this tradition, Spartans! (From left) Coach Jordan Mahood ’07, Chris France ’08, Alex Potter ’11, Jacob Seiler ’11, Matt O’Connor ’12, Coach Bryan Traughber ’97, Zach Boyle ’10, Tyler O’Connor ’17, Nick Riordan ’18, Alex Voelker ’19, Henry Gloriod ’18, Cavan Mank ’21, Joseph Mosquera ’21, Matt Huber ’21, Bennett Mueller ’22, Will Weishaar ’15, Dan Weishaar ’21, Alex Mosquera ’21, Jacob Lorimier ’22, Jacob Alu ’20, Luke Jansen ’20, Justin Potter ’13, Brad Hashbarger ’20, Matt Barkofske ’14, Aidan Gillespie ’06, Tyler Blechle ’15, and Chris Williams (former coach)

CLAUDIA

Greg DiBlasi

Mark Guyol ’78

Brother Hank Welch, S.J.

20 10s

Congratulations to Michael Plassmeyer ’15, who was called up to the major league on August 22 as a pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies. He’s pictured below with his brother and fellow Spartan, Mitch Plassmeyer ’14, who is a minor league baseball pitching coordinator for the Baltimore Orioles.

COMING SOON TO A CITY NEAR YOU

St. Louis event kicks off series of alumni receptions

More than 100 alumni representing 35 classes attended the City Near You reception on August 22 at the Missouri Athletic Club West.

Fr. O’Dwyer, S.J., and the advancement team visited with alumni at Rhein House Denver on October 6 and will travel to the following cities later this fall and winter.

New York, NY – November 10, 2022

Marco Island, FL – February 2, 2023

More cities will be added in the coming months. Visit www.desmet.org/alumni for the latest

and

Pictured

Pictured

In July, Cincinnati’s business journal, Cincy Inno, shared the news that Clean Earth Rovers, a startup co-founded by Michael Arens ’17 when he was a student at Xavier University, has secured $100,000 in new funding. The company’s Plastics Piranha, an autonomous rover, functions like a Roomba but for bodies of water, skimming the surface to collect waste and debris. Learn more about the Clean Earth Rovers mission at www. cleanearthrovers.com.

PUBLISHING IN DECEMBER 2022

Michael Thanh Tran ’17 performed in Much Ado About Nothing at the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival in Forest Park this summer. Beginning his theatrical career with the De Smet Dionysian Players under the direction of Kurt Knoedelseder, he gives Mr. K. much of the credit for where he is today.

“I remember showing up to auditions as a freshman, terri ed and insecure. But it was Mr. K who gave me a shot, and I have so much gratitude for him for giving me the opportunity to learn, grow, and fail.”

The show marked Tran’s second appear ance in the St. Louis Shakespeare Festival. He performed opposite Tony Award Winner Andre De Shields in the Festival’s nationally acclaimed production of King Lear in 2020. When asked what’s next, Michael says that he intends to further his training and pursue a master’s degree.

Alumni co-author the first-ever history of De Smet basketball

Dave Bussmann and Larry Linkul, Class of 1971 alumni and players on the Spartans’ first varsity basketball team, have coauthored De Smet Basketball: Celebration of a Half-Century+, the first-ever history of De Smet basketball. This commemorative book celebrates the storied history and legacies of the program, including each of the 50-plus varsity teams that played for De Smet — detailing the personalities, stories, and performance records and achievements of De Smet basketball. It also includes an extensive roundtable interview with coaches such as Rich Grawer, Dale Burgman, Bob Steiner, and others. Interested in learning more or ordering a copy? Please contact Larry Linkul at 314-650-7699 or llinkul@gmail.com.

FATHERS AND SONS: CLASS OF 2022 ALUMNI LEGACIES

We are proud to continue the tradition of celebrating our alumni legacies during graduation. The Class of 2022 included 16 sons of alumni. (Seated, from left) Charles Llorico ’22 and Benjamin Llorico ’86; Jacob Fahland and Kurt Fahland ’90; Andrew Cross ’22 and Bradley Cross ’84; Dominic Illardi ’22 and Carlo Illardi ’92; Nicholas Burke ’22 and Michael Burke ’86 (Second row, from left) Jackson Hogan ’22 and Richard Hogan ’93; August Erker ’22, and Rocco Erker ’77, Robert Concannon ’22 with a photo of his father, the late John Concannon ’88; Shane Concannon ’22, Edward Concannon ’91, Adam Kriegshauser ’22 and Keith Kriegshauser ’79 (Back row, from left) Francis Vacca ’22 and John Vacca ’85; William Teepe ’22 and John Teepe ’91; Anthony Grewe ’22 and Michael Grewe ’86; Colin Brunts ’22 and John Brunts ’86; Bennett Mueller ’22 and Gregory Mueller ’83; Connor Wade ’22 and Michael Wade ’81

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

The Alumni Association hosted a year-end BBQ in June to welcome the newest alumni from the Class of 2022, celebrate the successes of this past school year, and honor John Goessling ’71 for his service and leadership as Alumni Association President. Thank you and congratulations to the 2022–2023 Alumni Association leaders, pictured with Fr. O’Dwyer, S.J., and Pat Morris ’06: Dr. Tom Zink ’74, president (second from right); Lucas Nikolaisen ’13, vice president (at far right), and Jon Schwendeman ’08, treasurer (at far left).

BASKETBALL ALUMNI REUNION

PHOTO BY KABANCE PHOTO SERVICE

DEBBIE HIGGINS

(Kneeling, from left) Tom Zink ’74, Jamie Hudson ’80, Greg Roder ’87, Alec Bausch ’13, Nolan Berry ’13, and Chris Klages ’13; (first row, standing, from left) Dan Stroud ’09, John Stewart ’77, Coach Steve Wilcutt, John Brunts ’86, Jeff Gaona ’89, John Goessling ’71, Mike Leary ’80, Pat Hayes ’71, Bob Mills ’72, Coach Bob Steiner, Coach Dale Burgman, Coach Rich Grawer, Coach Kevin Poelker ’98, Mike Faddis ’71, Larry Linkul ’71, Jimmy Barton ’13, and Bob Kuelker ’71 (back row, from left) Mike Sawicki ’71, John Teepe ’91, Tom Smith ’87, Tim Hornof ’76, Coach Mike Dressler, Kevin Hays ’89, Jim Hudson ’80, Eric Howard ’91, Jim Finkenkeller ’71, Tom Hornof ’79, Bob Meyer ’80, Steve Stipanovich ’79, Jim Kennedy ’73, Joey Lodes ’13, and Dan Giesler ’89

MARRIAGES

Bill Szczuka ’87 and Amber Grove: September 10, 2021

IN MEMORIAM

This listing includes notifications of the passing of De Smet Jesuit alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students, and immediate relatives through July 31, 2022. If we have missed someone, please notify the Alumni Office at alumni@desmet.org or 314-567-3500.

Charles M. Allen, former staff member, 2017–2022

Jeffrey T. Appel, father of Michael ’21 and James Appel ’26

Nicholas L. Baker ’76, brother of Bart Baker ’77

John R. Basilico, father of Thomas Basilico ’83

John V. Doheny Sr. ’76, brother of Donald Doheny ’72; father of John ’13 and Henry Doheny ’15; uncle of Daniel ’06 and Kevin Zickel ’08

Roberta Dubuque, mother of Joseph Dubuque ’73

Joseph W. Dukeman III ’72

Henry W. Heilferty, father of Robert ’73, William ’74, David ’76, and Thomas Heilferty ’78

Ronald L. Kozminske, father of Kevin Kozminske ’96

John M. McKeon ’89

Gordon F. Neary, father of Paul Neary ’81; grandfather of Michael ’99 and Brian Neary ’03

Richard Rauschenbach, father of Richard Rauschenbach Jr. ’74 and Debbie Stewart (former staff member); father-in-law of John Stewart ’77; grandfather of Brian Stewart ’05

Timothy J. Renschen ’86, brother of Robin Renschen ’88

Glennon Schaefer ’72

Kevin J. Shields ’84, brother of Edward Shields ’88

Richard Weber, father of Richard ’81, Timothy ’82, Michael ’86, and Daniel Weber ’90; grandfather of Richard ’09, Andrew ’11, Timothy ’14, Alexander ’16, Jonathon ’18, and Thomas Weber ’21

Jeanne M. Welborn, mother of William ’77, Stephen ’79, John ’80, and Matthew Welborn ’82; aunt of Kevin ’75, Michael ’79, and Robert Weber ’85

IN TRIBUTE

The Smile of a Bus Driver

Remembering Charles “Chuck” Allen

For some of our students, Chuck Allen was the first smiling face they saw every school day. Each morning he would ask them how they were feeling, and every afternoon he asked them how their day went.

How do I know this? Chuck was my friend. I’ve known him and his family since I was four years old. When I first saw him driving De Smet’s bus, I felt so happy for our students and myself.

I knew that I could talk to Chuck daily and feel good about what I was doing with my life. He asked real questions about my life and my family.

I loved when colleagues would ask how I knew the bus driver. I would tell stories about how Chuck played a huge role in my life. He shared a joke and smile every morning and afternoon; how could I not look forward to seeing him every day?

And that’s what he brought to our students; he cared. He is one of the few people I’ve known who truly cared about all the people around him. Even his criticisms were encouraging; he wanted everyone to be their best selves, and he preached it from the basketball court where he refereed to the pulpit where he helped lead his parish as a deacon.

I’ve known a few fine gentlemen in my life, and Chuck Allen was at the top of that list. He was one of a kind, and he will be missed. I will miss my friend.

– Robert Bergman ’93

Student volunteers pitch in to support summer camps

North New Ballas Road

Louis, MO

We invite you to visit De Smet Jesuit this fall.

Seventh and eighth grade boys are invited to Shadow a Spartan for a day now through early December.

Join us for Open House on Sunday, October 23, from 12–3 p.m.

current students, faculty, coaches, and more. New this year—

legacies

a.m.

invited to a special tour and

Parents: If this issue of Odyssey is addressed to your son who has established a permanent address, please notify the Alumni Office of the new address: call 314-567-3500 or email alumni@desmet.org