A PUBLICATION PUBLICATION FOR FOR THE THE DOWLING DOWLING CATHOLIC CATHOLIC COMMUNITY COMMUNITY A
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER DR. DAN RYAN
Dear Friends, I hope you had a blessed Christmas and are looking forward to all that a new year brings. As we enter the second half of the school year, I am pleased to share the extraordinary activities taking place at Dowling Catholic. Our family is an ever growing and changing group of individuals who come together under the motto, “Once a Maroon, Always a Maroon.” The dedication of a statue to Our Lady of Guadalupe in December exemplifies this motto perfectly. As our population becomes more diverse, new traditions come into Dowling Catholic, one being the celebration of the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th. This new tradition is connected to Dowling’s past by the graduating class of 1978 and their desire to give back. As this class began to ask how they could assist current students they were connected to this emerging effort to recognize the special devotion of our Hispanic students and families to Our Lady of Guadalupe. By purchasing and then celebrating the dedication of this new statue these Maroons came together in a special way. I am touched by the connection made between two groups whose backgrounds are so distinct coming together to what connects us - our faith and these shared experiences as Maroons! Additional extraordinary events shaped our fall season in the concert halls and in the sports arena. Dowling Catholic was proudly represented at the Iowa All-State Music Festival by several students who were selected to an ensemble, a tremendous honor awarded to less than 20 percent who audition. Senior Josh Nguyen was recognized as a four-time All-State member and performed a solo at the festival concert held in Ames. Such achievement is rare and indicative of our performing arts programs. Similarly, our fall sports teams achieved at the highest levels, including a boys cross country state title and strong state tournament showings by our girls swim and dive, girls cross country, volleyball, and boys golf teams. The football team made history this year by winning a truly amazing sixth consecutive state title with dramatic come-from-behind wins in the state semi-final and final games. Outcomes such as these do not just happen; they are created and we recognize the great work and dedication put in by these students, coaches and parents. Your dedication and continued support of Dowling Catholic make these extraordinary events possible. Thank you for your generous support and Go Maroons! Yours in Christ,
Dr. Dan Ryan
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D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
CONTENTS
Focus magazine is published for Dowling Catholic parents, alumni
FEATURE STORY
and donors.
ON THE COVER Dowling Catholic received the wonderful gift of an imported statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe from the Class of 1978. The statue was blessed by Bishop Pates and will stand in the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel.
CONTACT Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Rd. West Des Moines, IA 50265
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515.225.3000 www.dowlingcatholic.org
CLASS NOTES:
IN EVERY ISSUE 4
8
| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE How to help every student through the Annual Appeal.
| ON CAMPUS
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Find out about upcoming Dowling Catholic events.
18
Check out the latest school happenings.
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| WELL DONE
| ACTIVITIES SPOTLIGHT Theater students presented two productions to the community.
advancement@dowlingcatholic.org.
| TRUE MAROON Featuring outstanding and successful alumni.
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Success in the classroom and on the field.
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| CALENDAR
Submit alumni news, including your full name and class year, to
| CLASS NOTES/ IN MEMORIAM Be in the know about alumni and friends of Dowling Catholic.
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| THE PULSE Celebrating 50 years of swimming and diving at DCHS. FO C U S
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ADVANCEMENT UPDATE
Donors make a significant impact at Dowling Catholic, providing crucial support to programs and resources that truly benefit
rity with the addition of a full-time Student
all students. Every aspect of the Dowling
Resource Officer and the installation of new
Catholic experience - including faith and
internal safety doors and cafeteria windows.
academic programming, student activities,
Important funding was also provided for
athletics and the arts - is supported by the
religious retreats, chairs for Mass and events,
Annual Appeal.
parking lot improvements, as well as a new school bus, diving board and auditorium
Thanks to the generous support of those
sound system. These items are in addition to
who contribute, our students have the
the funds designated each year to covering
opportunity to participate in a wide variety
a portion of the per pupil cost to educate
of activities that develop their interests
each student and to enhancing our tuition
and teach them the value of leadership and
assistance program.
citizenship. In the classroom students have access to the latest technology and a chal-
Ultimately, your support of the Annual Ap-
lenging curriculum which prepares them for
peal allows us to fulfill our mission of prepar-
education and career opportunities beyond
ing Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ. On
high school. This support also makes it pos-
behalf of the students at Dowling Catholic
sible for students to serve others, a hallmark
who benefit from your generosity, thank you
of the Dowling Catholic experience.
for your support.
Additionally, in the last year the Annual
To make a donation, please use the enclosed
Appeal provided funding for many im-
envelope or visit www.dowlingcatholic.org/
provements on campus and throughout
page/giving. Questions: Please call Rachelle
the building. We were able to enhance the
Watters at 515-222-1095.
safety of our students and increase secu-
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D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
MEET THE ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
A TRADITION TO FLIP OVER After nearly six decades Dowling Catholic’s annual Pancake Breakfast has become a favorite tradition for many in the DCHS community. This year marked the 57th for the breakfast which took place on October 28 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Community support was at an all-time high with more than 3,900 in attendance.
While most would agree that the pancakes are always fantastic, it’s the fellowship and community that keep people coming back. Many alumni have been attending since they were students, while others had their first experience as a parent or volunteer. Regardless of the reason for first attending, people continue to return year after year.
The first Pancake Breakfast took place in 1953 in support of Dowling Club, founded by Frank Dowie ‘38, Pat Connelly ‘40 (SJA) and Noah Lacona, who graduated from Lincoln High School. The breakfast was originally held in St. Theresa’s parish hall before moving to the gymnasium at the old Dowling High School. As attendance grew, the breakfast moved to Vets Auditorium and then to the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
From flipping pancakes to finding sponsors, this event would not be possible without the dedicated volunteers who donate their time and talent and the generous support of local businesses. Paul and Jennifer Damge and Jim Bruno and Marta Codina served as co-chairs, and nearly 300 additional volunteers contributed greatly to the success of this year’s event. At the helm was Holly Ackermann, Event Coordinator for the Advancement Team.
Harvey Sergio of Heartland Products is a long-time sponsor who has supplied the pancake batter for many years. He continues to fulfill a promise made years ago to Sister Frances Comito that he would supply the batter for as long as he is able. In addition, 16 local businesses provided underwriting support and donated goods and services. Thanks to the sponsors, volunteers and all who attended, the 57th Annual Pancake Breakfast will truly help the students and teachers who are the beneficiaries of this treasured Dowling Catholic tradition.
Rachel Brown has joined the Advancement Team as the Assistant to Dr. Dan Ryan, President of Dowling Catholic High School. Rachel and her husband, Curtis, are parents to sophomore Max and three additional sons, Adrian, Benet and Jude who attend St. Pius X Catholic School. Rachel worked for the past 10 years as a Program Consultant for United Way, overseeing numerous programs and events.
Rachel graduated from the College of St. Benedict in St Joseph, MN, with a Liberal Studies degree. In her spare time, she is involved in The Well, a ministry bringing faith, friendship and fun to women in Des Moines, as a speaker and regular contributor to a monthly podcast.
“I see this new role as an opportunity to be an ambassador for Dowling Catholic and to support Dr. Ryan as the leader shaping the future of a school that is very important to me and my family,” said Brown. “I am grateful and proud to be part of this community.”
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ON CAMPUS GRANDPARENTS’ DAY CELEBRATION Dowling Catholic High School welcomed 865 grandparents to campus on Thursday, October 18, 2018, for the 13th annual Grandparents’ Day Celebration and Mass. This was the largest group in attendance to date with more than 2,500 students and members of the Dowling Catholic community coming together to celebrate Mass.
NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS Four Dowling Catholic students have been named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Congratulations to seniors Michael Lu, Cecilia Becicka, Gabrielle Marie Borromeo, and Alex
Visitors heard remarks from Terry Clark, Director of Ministry and Formation at Dowling Catholic, Mr. Matt Meendering, principal, and
Schwarte.
Dr. Dan Ryan, president. Student speakers These students are now competing to become National Merit scholars. Narrowed down from a pool of nearly 1.6 million, there are approximately 16,000 semifinalists remaining. This number represents less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide.
included Steffen Osborn ‘19 and Casey Shanaberger ‘19, who introduced his grandmother, Patricia Munro, to lead the Call to Worship. Munro shared how meaningful Grandparents’
Semifinalists qualify through their PSAT scores. A school administrative recommendation is also required, and information about extracurricular activities and an essay are all used in the judging process as well. Finalists will be notified in February, and scholarships will be announced beginning in April. Finalists have the opportunity to win one of approximately 7,500 scholarships from a pool totaling nearly $31 million.
Day has been since attending her first in 2003. She has participated in the celebration every year since as all seven of her children and 16 of her grandchildren are all alumni. This year marked her last as Casey, her 17th and youngest grandchild, will graduate in May.
TERRI HANNAH Terri Hannah retired in December 2018 after thirty years at DCHS. She served as a Spanish teacher and chaperoned numerous trips to Europe, Mexico, Central America and South America. She also held various roles in the technology department where she managed the first networked computer lab, created the first website, and taught the first web design and computer systems classes. Most re-
Gabby Borromeo ‘19 and Annika Parks ‘19 sang
cently, she led projects to convert student informa-
“Panis Angelicus” (Bread of Angels), and mem-
tion systems, oversaw the remodel of classrooms
bers of the choir also shared their vocal talents
and managed technology installation school-wide.
during Mass. This Dowling Catholic tradition
We are thankful to Hannah for her significant con-
was once again a great celebration of commu-
tributions to the school.
nity and faith. To view photos, please visit the Dowling Catholic Facebook page at: https:// www.facebook.com/dowlingcatholic/.
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D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
CHRISTMAS BASKETS DCHS honors the history of its founding schools, St. Joseph Academy and Dowling High School, by maintaining many time-honored traditions. One such tradition is Christmas Baskets, which was brought to Dowling by the BVM sisters from St. Joseph Academy when the two schools merged in 1972.
Today, Christmas Baskets remains one of the largest, school-wide service projects, providing assistance to local families during the holiday season. In addition to gifts for under the tree, each family also receives groceries and household items. The project is led by the senior class with participation from faculty, staff and students in all grade levels. Many local businesses and donors from the community also provide their generous support.
The project concludes with Candlelighting, a prayer ceremony which fills the gym with flickering candles. Thanks to the support of the DCHS community, students were able to make Christmas merrier for nearly 100 families during this holiday season.
ART CLUB OFRENDA The Art Department’s 15th Annual Day of the Dead celebration took place at Dowling Catholic on Saturday, October 27, 2018. A Mass was held in the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel followed by the ofrenda unveiling and a reception. This year’s ofrenda was created by more than 50 Art Club students in honor of a multitude of people in the DCHS community lost over the past few years.
“When students began working on the ofrenda in September, they had so many people in mind that we felt it would have been unjust to honor just one soul. How do you choose just one?” said Brenda Kane, art teacher and head of the Visual Arts Department. “We could have honored close to 100 people this year so we tried to stick to the souls of those closest to our students.”
The ofrenda is an essential part of the Day of the Dead celebration built to honor and remember those departed. Many teachers at DCHS visit the ofrenda with their classes leading up to All Saints/All Souls Day, and students, faculty and staff continue to pray for the departed through November. The collaborative work of the students created a beautiful place in the halls of DCHS to honor and remember those departed but never forgotten.
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Whether it’s to experience the joy of rekindled friendships or memories revisited after decades of life experiences, many alumni remain connected with former classmates and the Dowling Catholic community long after graduation. In recent years, an increasing number of those alumni have been returning to campus to celebrate some of life’s biggest milestones in the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel.
The chapel was completed in May of 2015 as the culminating project of the We Believe capital campaign. It was designed to provide an inspiring space to support the faith development of Dowling Catholic students. The location of the chapel was selected to make it the focal point upon entering campus and to serve as the beacon for the school’s mission of preparing Christ-centered leaders.
Also behind the inspiration for the design was the intention to honor the legacies of St. Joseph Academy and Dowling High School, along with the thousands of students whose spiritual formation took place in their respective chapels.
St. Joseph was selected as the name and patron of the chapel in recognition of the legacy of St. Joseph Academy and the work of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary who founded the academy in 1884. The narthex, which connects the chapel to the school, also contains a cornerstone from the original St. Joseph Academy building.
The wall of saints in the narthex pays tribute to Dowling High School, with 11 of the 14 stained glass windows originating from the chapel in the all-boys school. The windows were carried over to the co-ed high school chapel when it opened in 1972 and then restored in 2015. These and other pieces of history are just a few of the tributes that serve as a welcoming connection for alumni as they return to campus.
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D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
The inaugural reunion Mass was celebrated in the chapel by the Class of 1960 in June of 2015. In the months that followed, 11 additional reunion Masses took place on campus. Dozens of alumni classes have returned to Dowling Catholic since that time to celebrate Mass together and tour the campus.
Many have chosen to commemorate a reunion by making a lasting contribution in the form of a class gift. Most recently, the Class of 1978
lic community and greets all those who enter.”
gifted an imported statue of Our Lady of Gua-
with fellow alumni, offering a unique perspective as a graduate.
dalupe to commemorate their 40th reunion
According to Broderick, the idea was well re-
which took place in August.
ceived by members of the class who respond-
“What an incredible blessing to be back at my
ed generously to the invitation to support their
high school, Dowling Catholic, after 40 years,”
first gift.
said Bowman.”It is an honor to be reconnect-
Accompanying this gift was the start of a new tradition as the community came together
ing with classmates, fellow alumni, family and
at Dowling Catholic to celebrate the Feast of
“Because it was our first gift, everyone wanted
friends. It’s a blessing to be part of a very large
Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12, 2018.
to make it special,” said Broderick. “With guid-
and generous community focused on ensuring
Bishop Pates blessed the statue and Mass was
ance from the Dowling Catholic staff, a vision
that all students who desire a DCHS educa-
celebrated in the chapel where Our Lady of
emerged of a permanent gift in the same halls
tional experience have the opportunity to do
Guadalupe now stands. The celebration includ-
where our classmates studied 40 years ago.
so. Giving back to the school that instilled in
ed community members, students, staff and
We hope her enduring presence welcomes all
me the desire to serve others is just one of the
representatives from the Class of 1978.
who enter and draws visitors, students and
many gifts I received from my DCHS educa-
staff to pause for a moment of prayer.”
tion.”
ick Medina ‘78 attended the celebration with
Kimberly Bowman ‘78, Alumni Coordinator and
In addition to celebrating reunions on campus,
several classmates and spoke during Mass.
Major Gifts Officer at Dowling Catholic,
many alumni have also chosen to exchange
Carolyn Stanfel Shojaat ‘78 and Cathy Broder-
They shared how meaningful it has been to
wedding vows in the chapel. Nearly 50 wed-
have the opportunity to come together and
dings have been celebrated on campus since
give back to the school that played such an
the first which took place in October of 2015.
important role in their own faith development.
While an alumni connection is not required,
As part of the reunion planning committee, the
either the bride or the groom has been a grad-
two were instrumental in planning and organiz-
uate in all but five of the weddings that have
ing the class gift.
taken place in the chapel.
“We thought that a statue would be a long
Thanks to the generous support of the Dowling
lasting memory or a bridge between the Class
Catholic community, the St. Joseph Chapel
of 1978 and the foundation of our faith,” said
provides students and alumni with a beautiful
Shojaat. “I truly liked the idea of a class gift
place on campus to grow in faith and celebrate
being something visible and tangible. Just as
some of life’s most important milestones. Learn
a statute stands firm and forever, so does the
was honored to reunite with her classmates
more about planning a reunion at Dowling
expression of our Christian roots and endless
and make an impactful gift to her alma mater.
Catholic at: www.dowlingcatholic.org/page/
memories of our high school education and
Bowman returned to Dowling Catholic to join
alumni. For wedding information, visit:
years at Dowling. The statue signifies that the
the Advancement Team in the spring of 2018.
www.dchsweddings.com.
Class of 1978 remains with the Dowling Catho-
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WELL DONE at St. Francis of Assisi School in West Des Moines. Inclement weather presented challenging conditions, but students still walked for two hours, stopping every 30 minutes to listen to a speaker.
While all four speakers shared inspiring stories, the words of one in particular were especially meaningful. Jackson’s mother, Michelle, walked with the students and shared fond memories of Jackson and how she was always inspired by his eternal optimism, even in the face of a dire prognosis. She spoke of how his hope always gave her strength and expressed gratitude for his classmates.
ST. JOSEPH FALL PROJECT
“To be able to share her story with Jackson’s classmates was very pow-
The annual St. Joseph Fall Project had special meaning as the purpose
erful,” said Heinrich. ”Her strength as she was talking about something
was to raise awareness about a disease that affects so many and to
so emotional was just incredible and so inspiring. She definitely touched
honor Jackson Fisher, a classmate who passed away in May 2018 at age
everyone there.”
17 after a courageous battle with cancer. Students also heard personal stories from Rolf, Brigid Greening, a substiThe school-wide service project takes place annually with the purpose
tute teacher, and senior Aidan Cunningham.
of raising money or awareness for a worthy cause. The project is led by a team of senior leaders with guidance from teachers Kurt Heinrich and
“The day was just so powerful,” said Heinrich. “ I feel privileged to have
Mike Rolf, who have been involved for the last 22 years.
been there and to have heard these stories shared. It’s an honor to be part of the Dowling Catholic community, which comes together to sup-
This year students organized a cancer awareness walk which took place
port people when they are struggling.”
SIXTH STRAIGHT TITLE The Dowling Catholic varsity football team closed the season with an unprecedented sixth consecutive state title, defeating the Cedar Falls Tigers in the Class 4A championship game at the UNI-Dome on November 16, 2018.
The Maroons opened the season at 2-2 but found their momentum in the playoffs with two come-from-behind victories. They defeated top-ranked West Des Moines Valley and then Bettendorf, overcoming a 17-point halftime deficit in a game with four overtimes. In the championship game, the Maroons were down 16-7 with just nine minutes to play in the fourth quarter before they rallied with another comeback,
received along the way.“
resulting in a 22-16 victory over Cedar Falls. This victory was no less significant than the previous five for the players “I cannot be any more proud of the 2018 team,” said Coach Tom Wilson.
on the team and the community which has supported them. Students,
“This team showed a lot of heart, grit and perseverance. They kept
parents and fans packed the stands at the Dome and then filled the
believing when many others may have lost hope. The result is earning
gym at Dowling Catholic as they greeted the team for a spirited wel-
a state championship. We appreciate the fantastic support that we
come-home celebration of this incredible accomplishment.
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ALL-STATE BAND & CHOIR DCHS was proudly represented at the 72nd annual Iowa All-State Music Festival by several talented students who were selected to an ensemble, a tremendous honor awarded to less than 20 percent of the nearly 5,000 students who audition each year. Joshua Nguyen, Michael Lu, Jayne Ancona, Kaleb Roberson and Jude Borromeo (2nd alternate) were selected for All-State Band; Alex Schwarte for All-State Orchestra; and Gabby Borromeo, Andrew Cox, Theo Davis, Audrey Holtkamp, Stan Przedlacki and Marie Porto (1st alternate) for All-State Chorus.
The All-State Festival Concert was presented to the public on Saturday, November 17, 2018, at Hilton Coliseum in Ames. Nguyen earned a spot among an elite group of high school musicians as a four-time All-State member and performed a solo after being selected for first-chair clarinet.
Additional highlights for DCHS band students included performing in the All-City Marching Band Festival in September, marking the 25th year that the Dowling Catholic Vanguard (DCV) has partnered with local
DCHS, and freshmen Madi Bruck, Hannah Martin, Austin Riewer, Tommy
parochial school band students to provide the pre-game entertainment
Hancock (alternate) and Jenna Pogemiller (alternate) were selected for
for the Homecoming football game.
the Opus Honor Choir.
September also marked the start of a successful competition season,
Several choir students performed well at the Iowa NATS Competition
which included a second place finish by the DCV in the Pella Invitation-
which took place in November at Simpson College in Indianola. Stan
al and an award for Best Drumline. The DCV also finished first at the
Przedlacki placed first in classical and third in musical theater; Erin
Five-Seasons Invitational in Cedar Rapids and brought home awards
Greening received an honorable mention in classical and placed third in
for Best Winds, Best Percussion and Best Drum Majors. In October, they
musical theater; Joshua Bartemes place fifth in classical; Will Donaghy
finished fifth at the ValleyFest Showdown and first at the Waukee Invita-
received an honorable mention in musical theater; and Audrey Holtkamp
tional, also winning Best Percussion.
received an honorable mention in classical.
Band students also had several opportunities to perform at various
Choir students also had many opportunities to share their talents in the
community events. Students selected for the Downtown Swing Project
community, presenting the annual fall concert at Sheslow Auditorium in
provided the pre-dinner entertainment for the World Food Prize held
October and the Christmas concert at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Decem-
at the Iowa State Capitol in October. This was the 10th year the Swing
ber. The Jazz Choir performed during Dowling Catholic’s Open House
Project has played for the world leaders who gather to seek solutions
and at Pancake Breakfast, and more than 100 choir students have been
to end worldwide hunger and poverty. Band students also performed at
rehearsing for the Madrigal Dinner which takes place in early January at
the President’s Council Dinner, Pancake Breakfast, Christmas Luncheon
the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall. The Dimensions Show Choir has also
and at football and basketball games.
been hard at work in preparation for the 2019 competition season which kicks off on January 13, 2019, with the Preview Show.
The choirs also had many great accomplishments during the first half of the school year. Audrey Holtkamp, Barbara Reed and Sophie Rounds
To learn more about upcoming band and choir performances please
were accepted to the 2019 Iowa State University Honor Choir, a first for
visit: https://bit.ly/2qXETCj
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SPOTLIGHT
STUDENTS TAKE THE STAGE The first half of the school year included
well received among the cast and crew of 30.
but also because the material provides
plenty of drama for Dowling Catholic theater
Several students played multiple characters
enough humor to be entertaining for adults. In
students with two successful productions
and successfully faced the challenge of nu-
addition to two public performances on
presented to the community. The Performing
merous costume changes that required them
November 30 and December 1, a matinee per-
Arts Department presents three productions
to quickly transition between non-fantasy and
formance took place for local parochial school
annually, with one taking place in the fall, win-
superhero roles.
fourth graders.
uniquely on its own, the one constant is the
In contrast, the focus of the winter play is tra-
Next up for the Performing Arts Department
talent students continue to bring to the stage
ditionally children’s theater. The show is pro-
is the spring musical which will take place
year after year.
duced by students in Acting + which requires
at Dowling Catholic April 11-13, 2019. This
students to take Acting I and II as prerequi-
performance is adjudicated for the Iowa High
The fall play is directed by Tim Sheaff ‘86 who
sites. This genre is a perfect fit for Kiersten
School Musical Theater Awards and provides
has been teaching at DCHS for more than 20
Naberhaus, a new faculty member who teach-
opportunities for singers, dancers, musicians
years and serves as chair of the Performing
es Creative Social Media, Play Production and
and technicians to participate.
Arts Department. When making production
Acting I in addition to Acting +. Naberhaus
selections he has a rotation in place that
taught at Ames middle school prior to joining
provides what he believes is the perfect mix
DCHS in the fall. She brings with her extensive
of material for students who may participate
children’s theater experience as the founder
for several or all four years of high school.
of a theater program in Ames and her work
That rotation includes the American clas-
with a non-profit theater company. She also
sics, Shakespeare and then something more
majored in education and theater in college
light-hearted mixed in every third year.
and has experience in the technical side of
ter and spring. While each production stands
theater as well as directing.
“My goal is to provide material that makes a resume stand out when they go to college
What is new for Naberhaus is working with high school students.
auditions,” said Sheaff.
“I just love these students
“For those who go on to
so far,” said Naberhaus.
act in college, I believe the high school experience we
“They have a sense of independence that is really great and are
offer will make them highly
definitely up for taking
competitive.”
on new challenges.”
This year’s fall play production was the fastpaced comic book farce Captain Fantastic by Tim Kelly which was presented in late October. Sheaff selected this play because of the influx in popularity of movies based on Marvel comics. His choice was one that was
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D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
Naberhaus chose The Pirate Show for the winter play because of the family-oriented storyline which appeals to the younger audience
CALENDAR > FEB 9
> APR 4
> MAY 23
Bash on Buffalo Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines
MVP Night of Style Sacred Heart Parish Center 1601 Grand Avenue West Des Moines
Dowling Catholic’s 35th annual auction – The
Enjoy an evening of great food, friends and
The Class of 2019 will have the opportunity
Bash on Buffalo – will be held in the school
fashion! Students, faculty and staff will hit
to celebrate the Sacred Mass together one
gymnasium. Please join us for an evening of
the runway with the latest styles during this
last time and to be sent forth from Dowling
wonderful food, music and community for a
fun night to benefit Dowling Catholic’s stu-
Catholic to love and serve the Lord. The cele-
great cause – our teachers and students!
dents and teachers. Groups may purchase a
bration of Mass with the graduates and their
table and decorate with a theme of choice.
parents will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Baccalaureate Mass St. Francis of Assisi 7075 Ashworth Road West Des Moines
> APR 18
Scholastic Achievement Assembly/ Distinguished Alumni Awards Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines
> APR 28
Dowling Catholic High School proudly
Spring Band Concert Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines
bestows alumni of both St. Joseph Acad-
The concert will take place at 4 p.m. in the
emy and DCHS with Distinguished Alumni
Dowling Catholic Auditorium and will feature
Awards. Nominees will be honored during
performances by the Concert Band, Sympho-
the Scholastic Achievement Assembly held at
ny Band, and Outstanding Performer award
DCHS. Nominations will be accepted through
winners from the State Solo Contest. In
January 15, 2019. Please contact Kimberly
addition to musical performances, the Band
Bowman with questions at 515.222.1048 or
Awards presentation will also take place.
kbowman@dowlingcatholic.org.
> APR 11-13
Spring Musical Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines
> MAY 7 Spring Choral Concert Sheslow Auditorium Drake University 2507 University Avenue, Des Moines Please join the choirs of Dowling Catholic at
The Spring Musical is presented annually by
7:30 p.m. at the historic Sheslow Auditorium
the Dowling Catholic Performing Arts De-
for their annual Spring Concert. The concert
partment. Performances will take place April
will feature performances by the Jazz Choir,
11 & 12 at 7:30 p.m. and April 13 at 2 and 7:30
Chamber Choir, Mixed Chorus and A Cap-
p.m. in the Dowling Catholic Auditorium.
pella Choir and will conclude with special recognition of senior choir members.
> MAY 24 Graduation Ceremony Knapp Center, Drake University 2525 Forest Avenue Des Moines Dowling Catholic’s commencement ceremony for the Class of 2019 will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Knapp Center on the Drake Campus.
> JUNE 9
Golden Jubilee Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines Please join us for a reunion celebration of St. Joseph Academy and Dowling High School alumni. Mass will take place in the St. Joseph Chapel with a reception and tours to follow. Reconnect with classmates from classes 1940-1969.
For the most up-to-date calendar information visit www.dowlingcatholic.org
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TRUE MAROON
MASTER CHEF Although she may not be cooking in front of a live audience again anytime soon, Dowling Catholic alumna and “MasterChef” contestant Samantha Daily ‘15 is not hanging up her apron for good. After finishing fourth on the nationally televised show which gives home cooks the opportunity to become a “MasterChef,” Daily came away from the experience feeling more fortunate than had she won the grand prize. Daily competed on season nine of the Fox network cooking competition which is judged by restaurateur Joe Bastianich and celebrity chefs Aarón Sánchez and Gordon Ramsay. While the stage and lights are made for television, the pressure and competition are real as contestants are faced with skills tests and challenges in real time and under pressure. Daily was the youngest contestant, which she believes helped her advance in the competition. “My competitors definitely underestimated me,” said Daily. “I think some of the others thought of me as this young kid, which I used to my advantage. Through it all, I just always tried to be myself.” She was eliminated in episode 21 which aired in September after facing off over a three-course meal with Gerron Hurt, a fellow contestant who went on to win the “MasterChef” title. During the episode, she received a surprise that softened the blow of her elimination when Ramsay, who had served as her mentor, 14
D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
announced that he would pay for her to
she always envisioned as a veterinari-
attend the culinary school of her choice.
an, she’s confident this is the path she’s meant to be on.
“It’s an honor to have his support because it shows that he believes in my
Daily was a senior at the University of
ability,” said Daily. “I still can’t believe I
Kentucky studying Equine Science be-
actually did this. I’m waiting to wake up
fore she left to be on the show. She grew
from this dream.”
up spending time in the kitchen and had always enjoyed cooking, but still never
This dream is one that will take her to
imagined the possibility of pursuing a
the heart of Manhattan to attend the
career in the field.
International Culinary Center, a top-tier school with campuses in New York and
Her culinary passion grew in college not
California. While a career in the culinary
only because she enjoyed it, but also
world is very different from the future
because it was a great budgeting tool.
Rather than pay for expensive meals out, she cooked at home to save money and to fend off the “freshman fifteen.” She
ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
began inviting friends over to join her for
The following alumni were inducted into the Dowling Catholic/St.
dinner, which is what eventually led to
Joseph Academy Athletic Hall of Fame during Homecoming on Friday,
her television stint.
September 14, 2018:
The friends she had been sharing meals
Connor Bravard ‘11, Baseball, Football Connor played football at Iowa Western Community College
with knew she was a fan of “MasterChef”
and then at Troy University where he earned Bachelor of
and suggested she audition when a
Science and Master of Science degrees. Connor works as the
casting call was held nearby in Nashville.
Program Coordinator of the Annual Fund at the University of
They were all aware that the odds of
Arizona Athletics department and is engaged to be married
making it onto the show were slim, but
to Erin Simpson in January 2019.
she decided to go for it. Even as she progressed through the lengthy audition process which included
Matthew Haack ‘13, Basketball, Football, Track Matt graduated with a degree in Sports Business and Media from the W.P. Casey School of Business at Arizona State Uni-
several rounds and thousands of com-
versity where he also played football. Matt currently resides
petitors, the reality that she might ac-
in Florida where he is a punter for the Miami Dolphins.
tually make it onto the show didn’t fully hit her until she stepped out of a lecture hall to accept a phone call informing her
Eric Howe ‘98, Baseball, Basketball, Football
that she had made it. She made a quick
Eric earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Justice from
decision not return to class and instead called her mother and headed home to withdraw from school and pack her bags for Los Angeles.
Truman State University and a law degree from the University of Iowa. He is a partner with Faegre Baker Daniels in Minneapolis where he resides with his wife Amy and their three children.
After enjoying several months at home in
Miranda Leek ‘11, Archery, Olympian 2012
Iowa with her family once filming ended,
Miranda attended Texas A&M and then graduated from Iowa
she recently packed her bags again, this
State University with a degree in Environmental Science. Mi-
time for the Big Apple. Daily will begin
randa is the Archery Education Coordinator for the Oregon
her education at the culinary institute in January, when she will participate in an intensive nine-month program. From
Department of Fish and Wildlife and is working towards a Ph.D. in biochemistry and biophysics at Oregon State University.
there she’s not sure what will come next but hopes to find an internship oppor-
Blake Waller ‘10, Golf, Baseball
tunity in New York City and eventually
Blake graduated from Iowa State University and owns the
travel. Regardless of where she ends up,
InXpress franchise. He resides in Scottsdale, Arizona, with
she is grateful for the opportunity she
his fiance Taylor Gillotti, a 2010 DCHS graduate, and his
has been given and plans to make the
dog Roscoe.
most of it. To read more, go to: dowlin gcatho l i c.o rg/AHOF
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CLASS NOTES Dowling Catholic hosted a Young Alumni Professional Networking Luncheon on December 17, 2018. The event provided alumni with the opportunity to network with professionals in the DCHS community and to learn about careers in a variety of fields. Thank you to our alumni, board members and commmunity partners who donated their time. Congratulations to Marilyn ‘47 and Don
Kolby Jones ‘99 and business partner Christo-
Duwelius ‘47, recipients of Dowling Catholic
pher Diebel recently opened Teddy Maroon’s,
High School’s Guardian Angel Award. They
a new restaurant located in downtown Des
were recognized on October 2, 2018, at the
Moines and named for their alma maters,
President’s Council Dinner for their generous
Dowling Catholic and Des Moines Roosevelt.
contributions of time, treasure and talent to
The two also created Bubba Southern Com-
Dowling Catholic. They have been involved for
forts which opened in 2016 in Des Moines.
more than 70 years starting when they were students. We are grateful for their continued partnership and support!
Dowling Catholic welcomed the following alumni back to Dowling Catholic as new faculty members this fall: Nicole Otten ‘14 (Math); Deacon Ryan Andrew ‘04 (Theology); Meaghan Dowdle ‘05 (Spanish & Interventionist); and Drew Cownie ‘92 (English).
The 1968 state champion football team returned to Dowling Catholic on Friday, September 14, 2018, in honor of their 50th anniversary. The team was recognized at a reception and on the field during the Homecoming football game. In 1968, under legend-
Deacon Ryan Andrew ‘04 was ordained into
ary Coach Jim Williams the Maroons made
priesthood by Bishop Richard E. Pates on De-
Dowling football history for the second year
cember 14, 2018, at St. Ambrose Cathedral in
Dowling Catholic proudly honors alumni of
in a row with an undefeated season. The of-
Des Moines. Deacon Andrew began serving as
SJA and DCHS as Distinguished Alumni/
fense scored a total of 284 points during the
associate chaplain at Dowling Catholic in the
Young Alumni. Recipients will be recognized
season while the defense allowed only 49
fall of 2018. He will succeed Father Kautzky
at the Scholastic Achievement Assembly
points with four shutouts. Dowling’s strong
upon his departure to assume active duty as a
on April 20, 2019. Please visit https://www.
tradition of football excellence can be traced
chaplain with the United States Air Force.
dowlingcatholic.org/page/alumni/awards for
back to this team of 50 years ago. We salute
nomination criteria. Due: January 15, 2018.
their outstanding accomplishments.
16
D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
IN MEMORIAM We extend our sympathies to the families
FAREWELL
of alumni who have passed away. for the past nine years has been a tremendous joy,” said Father Kautzky. “I’ve been
John Polich
‘41
Mary Stults
‘41
and their love for our faith. I look forward
Dante Fresco
‘42
to serving those who serve our country
Peter Leo
‘45
in the United States Air Force and ask for
E. Stephen Grask
‘46
Lawrence Stanfel
‘49
Richard Dice
‘50
John Hayes
‘50
so impressed by our students and staff
prayers for our military men and women in uniform.”
FATHER ZACH KAUTZKY
Kenneth Yamen
‘50
Father Zach Kautzky ‘02 completed his
Father Kautzky will begin his service at
Francis Hrubetz
‘52
service at Dowling Catholic in December
the Maxwell Air Force Base located in Ala-
Mary Ann Murphy Van Liew
‘52
of 2018 as he prepares to assume active
bama for commissioned officer training. It
Art Whipple Jr.
‘53
duty as chaplain with the United States
is anticipated that he will undertake duty
Thomas Gary
‘54
Air Force. Father Kautzky has been the
in the spring. We are thankful to Father
Patrick J. Morris
‘55
chaplain at DCHS since 2010.
Kautzky and the tremendous impact he
James Severino
‘55
Charlotte Deslippe
‘57
Pam Chioco Jessen
‘59
Susan Mount
‘59
Sue Corkrean
‘60
Thomas Neuser
‘60
has had on our students and the entire “Serving as the Dowling Catholic chaplain
Dowling Catholic community.
IN MEMORY
Thomas Carroll
‘61
The school’s wrestling room was renamed
Dexter Sidney
‘61
in his honor in 2015.
Charlotte ‘Carly’ Brian
‘62
Dave Mount ‘62 Robert Paul Nolterieke
‘62
Margaret Allen
‘63
Joseph Meyer
‘64
Robert E. Waldorf
‘64
the winningest coach in Iowa High School
Vicki Coleman Scholer
‘65
history with a .95 winning percentage.
John L’Estrange
‘67
Jack Moffitt
‘68
Susan Peterson
‘69
Jeannie Marie Millett
‘70
Raymond Russell
‘71
Michael Barclay
‘72
Peggy Metcalf
‘72
He also coached at Morning Sun and Urbandale High School before retiring from Simpson College in 2012. He retired as
COACH BOB DARRAH The Dowling Catholic community mourns
Coach Darrah is survived by children Jon
the loss of Coach Bob Darrah who passed
(Theresa) Darrah, Sara Darrah and Matt
away on Monday, November 26, 2018, at
(Cindy) Darrah; many grandchildren and
his home in Indianola, Iowa. Coach Darrah
great-grandchildren; and siblings Bill
served as head wrestling coach at Dowl-
“Scooter” (JoAnn) Darrah, Marilyn “Kay”
David Carter
‘75
ing Catholic from 1969-1989, making a tre-
Warden and Don “Butch” (Janice) Darrah.
Robert Irving Jr.
‘76
He is preceded in death by his wife, Don-
Jeff Bowman
‘79
Michael Sadler
‘85
Randal Schiller
‘88
Major Anthony Stephen Thies
‘89
Kelly Wilson
‘04
mendous impact not only on the student athletes he coached, but on the entire
na; parents, Glenn and Murine Darrah; and
DCHS community. He led the Maroons to
sister, Sally Howell.
a record of 268 wins, 12 losses and one tie, including four state titles. He also coached
Memorials may be given to the Coach Bob
Nina Grandquist
‘08
169 state qualifiers and 12 state champions
Darrah Endowment Fund for tuition assis-
Alicia Battani
‘13
during his 20 years at Dowling Catholic.
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WI N TE R 201 9
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Dowling Catholic celebrated 50 years
his name to provide tuition assistance for
of swimming and diving excellence in
DCHS students.
December. A reception was held in the gymnasium followed by a swim meet
The event was spearheaded by Bill Gray
against the Valley Tigers, bringing
‘70 and Bill Church ‘70, members of
together many individuals who have con-
Dowling’s first swim team. Bob Trusty, a
tributed tremendously to the success of
former math teacher and Dowling’s first
the program since its inception.
swim coach, also attended the celebration.
One such individual is Mark Crouch who served as emcee. Crouch is a member of
Trusty retired in July after serving at
the Athletic Hall of Fame who was swim
DCHS for 55 years. He recalls hours
coach at DCHS from 1988 until his retire-
spent practicing at public schools and
ment in 2017, coaching in total for more
the YMCA before Dowling built a pool.
than 40 years. As a three-time State
He also remembers the first meet hosted
Coach of the Year and eighteen-time
in the new Dowling pool as well as their
District Coach of the Year, he coached
first win. The victory was earned when
numerous All-Americans, state champi-
the other relay team was disqualified,
ons and collegiate-level swimmers. The
but they were thrilled with the win none-
pool was renamed in his honor in 2016
theless.
and an endowment was established in 18
D OWLI N G C ATHO L I C H IGH SCHOOL
Trusty was recognized
for his significant contributions to the program with the introduction of a new award bearing his name. The Bob Trusty Award will be given annually to one male and one female senior swimmer or diver in honor of their accomplishments in academics and athletics. The 2018 recipients are Clare Culver ‘19 and Noah Smith ‘19 who were recognized by their coaches, Frankie Hanson ‘91 and Nick Spike ‘06. “We’re thrilled we were able to celebrate this anniversary back at Dowling,” said Gray. “The excitement for the program was there from the beginning, and It’s great to see how it has blossomed into the successful program that exists today. I feel fortunate that the friendships we formed through swimming have been long-lasting.”
FALL SPORTS WRAP UP Boys Golf The boys golf team placed second at
Dowling Catholic High School is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines Catholic community and embracing learners of all faiths. In an environment that is faithful, caring and dedicated, Dowling Catholic forms each student to become a Christ-centered leader.
districts and came in sixth at the state tournament. The meet became a one-day tournament with just 18 holes played after day two was cancelled due to rain. Ben Freking and Jake Calhoun were named to Second Team All-State and Parker Ardary made the Second Team All-Tournament. Congratulations to the coaches and team
Focus is a publication of Dowling Catholic High School.
on a great season. Fall Cheerleading The squads began their season in June
Cross Country
PRESIDENT:
with summer practices as well as attend-
The boys cross country team finished
Dr. Dan Ryan
ing UCA Camp in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
the season as state champions for the
The fall Cheer squads were made up of 12
fifth time in the last eight years in a race
freshmen, 13 sophomores, and 24 varsity
decided by just one point. Sam Hall placed
cheerleaders. Additionally, 22 cheerleaders
fourth at the state meet and Zach Fry
ART DIRECTOR:
were chosen as part of the Competition
eighth, with both earning all state honors.
Holly Baumgartel
Squad which competed at both the Triton
Coach Tim Ives was named an At Large
Challenge in Fort Dodge and at the state
Coach of the Year for Class 4A Boys by the
competition at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
Iowa Association of Track Coaches in rec-
The cheerleaders are proud to be an active
ognition of outstanding accomplishments
part of spirit leading at Dowling Catholic
in coaching and distinguished service. The
High School.
girls cross country team had a successful
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:
season as well, finishing 10th at the state
Holly Baumgartel
Girls Swim & Dive
meet.
The girls swim and dive team finished second at the state meet in Marshalltown,
Volleyball
winning six of the 12 events, placing sec-
The volleyball team put forth a great team
ond in three additional events and setting
effort in the state quarterfinals but fell 3-1
a new state record in the 200 medley relay.
to Ankeny Centennial. This was the seventh
Junior Berit Quass earned the Outstand-
consecutive state appearance for the Ma-
ing Performer award at the state meet and
roons who ended a very successful season
Frankie Hanson ‘91, Paul Eure, Boris Bach-
with a 29-13 record.
man and Saudy Joos won Coaching Staff of the Year. The team’s performance at the state meet culminated a season filled with
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Tara Nelson
COPY EDITORS: Kimberly Bowman Carly Triplett
Colin Gargano Allyson Goodman Chris Pose Tony Topping Laura Wills Photography
SUBSCRIPTION: To notify the school of address changes or personal updates, please contact advancement@dowlingcatholic.org 515.225.3000
outstanding accomplishments.
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NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 1170 DES MOINES, IA
$35 Youth Cheer Outfit Sizes 3T - 8 $45 Women’s Alumni Low Key Hoodie
$60 Men’s Arctic Polar Fleece Champion
Stop by the Dowling Catholic Campus Store, located in the cafeteria, to purchase apparel and gift items! Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
$24 Brushed Zinc License Plate Holder
(when school is in session)
24/7/365 online!
dchscampusstore.com Campus Store: 515-222-1012 campusstore@dowlingcatholic.org 20
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$55 Reverse Weave Sweatshirt Champion
$45 Men’s Alumni Henley Champion