Focus VI

A PUBLICATION PUBLICATION FOR FOR THE THE DOWLING DOWLING CATHOLIC CATHOLIC COMMUNITY COMMUNITY A

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

1

PRESIDENT’S LETTER DR. JERRY DEEGAN Dear Friends, This will be my last letter to you in Focus magazine, where it has been my privilege over the years to share so much good news with alumni and friends in the Dowling Catholic community. Being hired as a young teacher at Dowling Catholic in 1972 was a stroke of luck for me and my family. We were blessed to be members of the DCHS community as parents, and our sons were fortunate to get an excellent education that prepared and formed them well. They have been out long enough for us to see the positive effect their DCHS education has had on their lives. Pat and I are grateful for the many people they encountered who helped us shape them along the way.

Professionally, I want to thank the many individuals over the years who have supported my leadership. It takes many people working together to keep the school focused on its mission, continuously improving its practices, and constantly working to embrace the future to ensure we are offering the best formation and education now and for generations to come. The old phrase “it takes a village” is true, and in this case, the village is the DCHS community. I am grateful for the support over the years.

As you may know, Dr. Dan Ryan has been hired as the next Dowling Catholic President. Dr. Ryan starts July 1st and I will be with him until October 1st to assist in his transition. I have known Dr. Ryan and worked with him on several committees for a number of years. He is a good man who brings a wealth of Catholic school knowledge and experience to the position. I am confident Dr. Ryan will do an outstanding job.

During my time at Dowling Catholic I have been fortunate to get to meet some amazing students. Often the most amazing students are the ones who show great faith and courage in the face of adversity. In this issue you will be introduced to Henry DeAngelis, an incredible young man who was a part of our faculty’s Faith Journey day last month. He inspires me!

I also want to congratulate Mark Crouch on his retirement which he announced this spring. Mark has made a difference to many students over the years in our swimming programs, and has also helped many students through Kairos and in the classroom. Thanks to Mark for the impact he has made on our students.

The articles in this issue make me proud to be a part of the Dowling Catholic community. It has been a wonderful year of accomplishments and achievements, but most of all it has been a year of growth for our students, faculty and staff. I hope you enjoy this issue and it makes you proud to be a Maroon!

Dr. Jerry Deegan President

May the Lord bless you and keep you; may his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26 2

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

CONTENTS Focus magazine is published for Dowling Catholic parents,

FEATURES

alumni and donors.

ON THE COVER

6

A DCHS student rock climbs in the school gym on equipment provided by the Army National Guard.

In conjunction with health and P.E. courses, the Guard provides students with opportunities to participate in fun activities each semester to promote

10

health and fitness.

CONTACT

16

Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Rd. West Des Moines, IA 50265 515.225.3000 www.dowlingcatholic.org

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

15

|

Find out about upcoming Dowling events.

How to help every student, every day.

8

| ON CAMPUS

18

|

Check out the latest school happenings.

12

| WELL DONE

| ACTIVITIES SPOTLIGHT DCHS brings Mary Poppins to the stage.

TRUE MAROON

CLASS NOTES: Submit class notes, including your full name and class year, to advancement@dowlingcatholic.org

Featuring outstanding and successful alumni.

20

|

Success in the classroom and on the field.

14

CALENDAR

CLASS NOTES/ IN MEMORIAM Be in the know about alumni and friends of Dowling.

22

|

THE PULSE Students learn how to be healthy for life.

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

3

ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

THE ANNUAL APPEAL DIFFERENCE

NEW FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR

We invite parents, alumni and friends of Dowling Catholic to support the Every Student, Every Day Annual Appeal to ensure our success in preparing our students to be Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ. Your generosity provides a faith-integrated curriculum, an academic proficiency that is top-rated in the state, and helps to keep tuition affordable for all. For more information please call 515-225-3000 or email rwatters@ dowlingcatholic.org.

We’re excited to welcome Rachelle Watters to the Advancement Team as the new Fundraising Coordinator.

Rachelle’s work will focus on the Every Student, Every Day Annual Appeal.

As a Des Moines native with a background in human resources, Rachelle may be a familiar face to many of our families, having previously worked for seven years as an office manager at Sacred Heart School in West Des Moines. Rachelle and her hus-

70

band Thad are parents to Dylan ‘17 and Zach ‘19, both students at DCHS. Since joining the team in April, Watters has worked with students on Phonathon, a fundraiser for the Annual

Did you know

Appeal, and looks forward to working

tuition only covers

with others in the community.

70 percent of the

per-student costs?

“I’m delighted to be a part of Dowling Catholic and can’t wait to work with all of the wonderful families and alumni,” said Watters. www.dowlingcatholic.org/donatenow

4

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

BASH ON BUFFALO The Bash on Buffalo, Dowling Catholic’s

thank you to our platinum level sponsors,

annual auction, was a great success thanks to

Graham Construction and Innovative Injection

the support of parents, alumni and friends of

Technologies, and to the many others who

DCHS. More than 310 community members

contributed as sponsors.

ARE YOU AN MVP?

gathered in February for the event which began with the celebration of Mass in the

Eddie Arndorfer ‘13 provided the entertain-

Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel followed

ment, sharing his musical talent on stage, and

by the auction festivities in the gym.

Patrick Cashman ’01, Ryan LePera ’01 and Marc LePera ‘05 of Guru BBQ provided the

The event would not have been possible

incredible food.

without the many volunteers who donated

If you have a student attending DCHS,

their time and talent. The chairs of this year’s

Proceeds from the annual auction are used

you are automatically an MVP! Formerly

event were Aimee Jackman ‘89, Nicolette Ke-

to fulfill a variety of needs throughout the

the Parents’ Guild, the Maroon Volun-

ough, Josie O’Halloran ’88 and Dawn Young.

school. This year’s event will benefit a number

teer Parents (MVP) is one of the most

More than 45 additional parent volunteers

of different departments, funding items such

important volunteer groups at DCHS.

also helped with the event.

as a new art kiln, CPR mannequins, various

The name is new but the mission

science supplies and new technology to

remains the same – to support activ-

The generous support of our sponsors also

name just a few. Proceeds will also benefit

ities that help build Leaders for Life,

contributed greatly to the success of the

faculty retirement and staff development

Centered on Christ.

event. We would like to extend a special

funds.

The Bash on Buffalo, Pancake Breakfast To learn more about volunteer opportunities

and the Style Show are just a few events that raise important funds for teachers and students that wouldn’t be possible without the support of our volunteers.

There is no gift of time, talent or treasure that is too small. Whether you have a few hours to contribute, have a special talent you’d like to share, or would like to participate as a sponsor, any level of support makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.

Interested in getting involved? Contact Holly Ackermann, Volunteer Coordinator, at hackermann@dowlingcatholic.org or visit https://www.dowlingcatholic. org/mvp to learn more.

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

5

As the school year comes to a close for soph-

one hand. Treatment options are limited, and

hard life but still a life.” He believes you have

omore Henry DeAngelis, his focus is not unlike

there is no cure.

to accept the situation you’re in and make the

his classmates as they prepare for finals and

best of it, to have the most fun you can have

look forward to summer. What’s different for

“You can argue that it’s the worst disease in

with it. He believes you can always find ways

Henry however, are the challenges he faces

the world because of the pain and the suf-

to make yourself and others happy. Those are

just to be able to attend school as he lives

fering it causes. It doesn’t just kill you, it kills

the things he focuses on.

with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare and

you very slowly,” said Henry. “The life expec-

incurable genetic condition that causes painful

tancy is 25 to 35 years old. It’s a progressive

At DCHS students are encouraged to focus on

blistering.

disease, and the older you get, the worse it

their faith journeys. Henry recently took a big

gets. A majority of people with EB develop

step in his as he decided to begin sharing his

Kids fighting EB are often referred to as

skin cancer by their mid 20s. The side effects

story. He presented to faculty members during

butterfly children because of the fragility of

– a weaker voice, dental issues, blisters, open

a faith formation session in March, sharing

their skin. They lack a critical protein that binds

wounds - limit what I can do. I can’t play sports

his personal story and information about EB.

the layers of the skin together. Henry explains

like others and it’s hard and painful to walk.

This would be daunting to most students, but

that everyday activities that most people take

Everything hurts.”

Henry volunteered, not to garner sympathy

for granted are hard for those with EB, things

or special treatment, but because he wants to

like taking a piece of tape from a dispenser or

To hear Henry describe what it’s like to live

opening a water bottle. He loves to play video

with EB, one might think he’s not enjoying life,

games like most teenagers, but can’t hold a

but his reality is quite the opposite. A quote

This is where the second quote he lives by

controller like others or even carry a cup with

that he lives by explains his philosophy: “It’s a

comes into play: “Once you’re in a wheelchair

6

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

raise awareness and help others with EB.

you never get out.” This is what he reminds

participating in one at the University of South-

adopted sister Charlotte is from, and this

himself of when he wakes up and everything

ern California. He’s been flying monthly to

summer he and his family will visit Montreal.

hurts. He reminds himself that once your body

Los Angeles since February, but tries to miss

Someday he hopes to visit Italy and even tour

gives up, you can’t go back. That motivates

Europe.

him to keep going.

He also travels to attend camp each year. He’s gone to Discovery Camp in Minnesota for the

He thinks back to elementary school and how

last eight years. The camp is for kids with all

he could have chosen not to go because of

types of skin conditions, and campers are able

the pain. He knows it’s hard as a young kid

to do things they can’t normally do, such as

when nobody wants to play with you, and he

horseback riding, tubing and kayaking. He’s

understands why many EB kids give up. He is

made good friends and enjoys learning about

choosing to do otherwise and wants to give

new research or bandaging techniques from

other EB kids hope so they’ll do the same.

others with EB. He also appreciates the opportunity to meet different types of doctors.

“I want kids to know it scares me too but I make a choice to keep going,” said Henry.

In March he attended Camp Spirit in Colora-

“They can do it too. A long time ago I could

do, which is only for EB kids. He was able to

have decided to be at home wasting life. I

ski, dogsled and snowmobile. He was hesitant

know there’s way more to life if you follow God

to go at first, worried about the safety, but a

and do His work. It may be hard, but you can

friend finally convinced him by sharing GoPro

still enjoy it.”

videos of his own camp adventures. Henry

He credits his aunt with starting him on his faith journey. She taught him about God and how to pray. She would send him lists of people to pray for and let him know who was praying for him. She passed away in September but he will never forget what he learned from her.

“She taught me that God is here to help me and that he is using me to help other people,” said Henry.

Henry is now focused on helping Jonathan Pitre, another 16-year-old with EB. He started a card drive for Pitre, who underwent his

DON’t let the fear of what might

now wishes he had gone sooner and plans to go again, another example of how he’s trying to live life to the fullest.

“What impresses me about Henry is the fact that he’s always smiling, he always has this optimistic outlook,” said Principal Matt Meender-

happen

ing. “Even when people think his world should

make

himself to live a positive life. To me that’s

nothing happen

be dark and gloomy, he persists and pushes inspiring. Many times in education we look at what we’ve helped kids learn. Henry is one of those kids who has helped me learn.”

While Henry has had a huge impact on so many at DCHS, his parents, John and Sarah,

second stem cell transplant at the University

are thankful for everyone at DCHS who has

of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital. The

grown to care about their son.

transplant is risky, but those who have survived very little school. By participating in the trials,

“Henry has been blessed with remarkable

he gets to work with the best doctors in the

teachers and wonderful doctors and nurs-

Henry also participates in experimental treat-

world. An added perk is the travel, which he

es,” said John. “But the greatest gift is the

ments in the hopes of advancement for EB

enjoys and hopes to do more of.

hundreds of people that have been praying

have shown dramatic improvement.

patients. He’s been involved in clinical trials at Stanford and Northwestern, and is currently

for Henry since the day he was born. We are He’s traveled traveled to China, where his

so very grateful for the prayers that bless us every day.”

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

7

ON CAMPUS

RELICS On Thursday, April 6, 2017, the Dowling Catholic community celebrated a very special Mass during which Bishop Pates placed relics in the altar of St. Joseph Chapel. Father Kautzky and Fr. Acrea co-celebrated the Mass which began with a simple ritual of placing the relics and asking for the intercession of the saints following the homily. We are blessed to have relics of Pope Saint John Paul II, Pope Saint John XXIII and St. John Vianney, which was gifted by Father Acrea. This day was chosen because April 6 is also the birthday of Bishop Dowling,

FACULTY SERVICE DAY

founder of DCHS.

The second annual Faculty Service Day took place on Monday, April 3,

“We are grateful to have the relics of three heroes of the Church

2017, marking the final session of faculty faith formation for the school

named ‘John.’ All three of them point us to God’s mercy,” said Father

year. The day began with prayer before teachers and administrators

Kautzky.“ St. John Vianney, patron saint of parish priests, was famous

divided into groups to go serve in the community.

for spending 16 hours a day hearing confessions. The Cure d’ Ars’ love for souls inspires us to frequently seek out this experience of

“This year’s faith journey for the DCHS staff focused on Christian

God’s mercy. St. John Paul and St. John XXIII were canonized saints

living,” said Erik Smith, Director of Campus Ministry. “One of the

on Divine Mercy Sunday, a feast day that the former instituted, just

highlights was our service day in April. For the second year we went

two days before we broke ground on the St. Joseph Chapel.”

out into the community, visiting and serving multiple sites. It was a fantastic way to end our adult faith formation for the school year. We did a lot of serving, but grew together as a staff and had a chance to put into action the things we learned.”

The groups served at Ruby Van Meter, Moulton and King Elementary, the Refugee Resettlement Program, Bidwell-Riverside Center, West Des Moines Human Services, St. Joseph’s Family Shelter, Central Iowa Shelter & Services, Bishop Drumm, the Free Store, Joppa, Faith and Grace Garden and Rebuilding Greater Des Moines. The day ended back at DCHS with the celebration of Mass.

“Focusing on the needs of others is a major contributor for going into the educational field,” said DCHS art teacher Brenda Kane. ”It comes naturally to the teachers of Dowling Catholic to give generously of their time and talents, yet often our work is completed surreptitiously. The annual Faculty Service Day is one of

Fr. Kautzky attended the canonization as well as the funeral of Pope

our collaborative opportunities to publicly be the face of Jesus in

John Paul II on Divine Mercy Sunday in 2014. Seniors of DCHS have

the greater Des Moines community while we bond closer with our

the opportunity to take an elective course to study St. John Paul’s

colleagues. Over the past two years our faculty faith formation days

“Theology of the Body,” his writings on the meaning of the body, the

have been heartwarming, personalized, and spiritually rewarding. I

universal call to holiness, and the meaning of authentic love.

feel privileged to be part of this welcoming school where we preach, teach and role model the Gospel message.”

8

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

DCHS FIGHTS HUNGER

MAROONS GO GREEN

This year during Lent, the DCHS service club People-To-People

Student leaders have already been making a difference when it comes

collected monetary donations for Meals from the Heartland, a non-

to educating the student body about the importance of going green

profit dedicated to fighting hunger. The club surpassed their $5,000

by implementing a recycling program at DCHS. This year they’ve

goal, raising more than $5,200. On Saturday, April 22, more than 170

taken the initiative to preserve the environment a step further by

people arrived at the Meals from the Heartland packaging facility.

including the added health benefit of hydration to their plans.

During three morning shifts, Maroons packaged 72,000 meals that will be delivered to malnourished people in Iowa, the United States and

While maintaining the recycling program remains an ongoing project

throughout the world.

for the Eco-Club, senior leaders from the group were also successful in working with administrators last year to modify school rules to allow

“It was amazing seeing how many students, parents and faculty

clear water bottles in the classroom. As a result of that effort, the

members helped,” said senior Parker Corwin, who led the project.

group worked in collaboration with the student council and student

“Meals from the Heartland set a new record for the amount of meals

activities moderators to purchase three filtered water bottle filling

packaged during a private hunger fight event! It was such a fun way

stations. The stations were installed in time for the start of the school

to spend a Saturday, and a great way to get involved in the world of

year, proving to be a win-win solution.

service.”

COACH CROUCH TO RETIRE After a successful career spanning more than 40 years, Coach Mark Crouch is retiring. Crouch came to DCHS in 1988 and had an immediate impact, teaching P.E. and health classes and coaching both boys and girls swimming.

Last year he was inducted into the DCHS Athletic Hall of Fame and the Mark Crouch Pool was named in his honor. Crouch is a three-time State Coach of the Year and eighteen-time District Coach of the Year. He’s coached numerous All-Americans, state champions and swimmers who advanced to the collegiate level. He feels blessed to have worked with the “best staff, students and athletes in the country.”

In retirement Crouch looks forward to spending quality time with his wife Jacque of 39 years and their children and grandchildren. “I am rich in memories,” said Crouch. “Every athlete, student, teacher, parent, staff member and administrator has a big place in my heart and have all impacted my life!”

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

9

Our Newest Maroon

Dr. Dan Ryan will be the new president of Dowling Catholic High School, assuming the position from Dr. Jerry Deegan who announced his retirement in December. Dr. Ryan, who currently serves as the superintendent of schools for the Diocese of Sioux City, will begin at DCHS on July 1, 2017. Dr. Deegan will continue in his role until October 1, 2017, to ensure a smooth transition of duties.

“I am thrilled at the selection of Dan as the next president of Dowling Catholic,” said Deegan. “I look forward to working with him as he transitions into his role, and I know that

“I am honored and humbled to accept this position,” Ryan said. “I have been consistently impressed with Dowling Catholic and look forward to using my extensive experience to continue to advance the school and its mission.”

he will be successful in advancing our school and Catholic education in the diocese.”

Ryan, who has been in his role as superintendent since 2009, has worked in Catholic ed-

Ryan visited Dowling Catholic in early April

ucation for more than 16 years. His previous

following the announcement that he would

experience includes serving as an elementary

be Dr. Deegan’s successor. He met with the

and high school principal in the Davenport

faculty and staff and addressed the group in

Diocese.

the Media Center, sharing his positive first

10

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

impressions of DCHS and noting the mis-

“Dan brings a tremendous wealth of experi-

sion-driven nature of the school in particular.

ence and faith to the position,” said Bishop

Richard Pates of the Diocese of Des Moines.

education, Ryan’s proven ability to build rela-

with him to advance the mission of DCHS.

“We look forward to him joining our com-

tionships with parents and community mem-

The entire Dowling Catholic family will bene-

munity and continuing to build on the solid

bers and strategic planning experience were

fit from his leadership and guidance.”

foundation put in place by Dr. Deegan.”

just a few strengths that made him stand out.

During his time as superintendent he also

Ryan is a native of Council Bluffs and a

According to Steve Lacy, head of the presi-

created a vision for Catholic education in the

graduate of St. Albert schools. He received

dential search committee, the committee was

diocese, strengthened academic programs

his undergraduate and master’s degrees from

unanimous in its selection of Ryan despite

and increased financial stability.

the University of Nebraska, and earned a

having a number of qualified candidates

doctorate in education from the University

apply: “The committee members were

“The selection of Dr. Dan Ryan comes with

of Northern Iowa. He and his wife Michelle

impressed with Dan’s vision, as well as his

great anticipation for the journey of growth

Auen have four children.

understanding of the evolving and changing

that lies ahead for Dowling Catholic,” said

landscape in Catholic education and the

Principal Matt Meendering. “Dr. Ryan has

importance of continual advancement.”

been entrenched in Catholic schools for his

In addition to his commitment to Catholic

entire career and I look forward to working

TEACH, INSPIRE, RETIRE In what seems

recognized, Dr. Deegan was presented with

a fitting tribute

a retirement gift of two hand-crafted pottery

as he prepares

bowls created by art students. Following the

for retirement,

presentation of his gifts, it was announced

“I tell people all the time that it is hard to

Dr. Deegan has

that the circle drive around DCHS would

know exactly what Dowling is like unless you

been award-

become Deegan Drive, a permanent tribute

are actually a part of it,” continued Deegan.

ed the 2017

to his legacy.

“I find that to be true when I ask students

Lead. Learn.

Proclaim.

Award from the

or parents to describe DCHS. When they

“I was surprised and humbled

National Catholic Educational Association

when I heard the Deegan Drive

(NCEA). The award recognizes a leader who

announcement,” said Deegan.

has shown dedication and commitment to excellence in Catholic education, two virtues

“My family and I are grateful for

pause and have trouble putting it into words, I know they get it. It’s personal for each and the community provides that uniqueness.

I’ve been blessed to be a part of and play a role in this wonderful community and treasure the wonderful relationships and memo-

the recognition.”

ries that it has provided me and my family.”

throughout his 45-year career in Catholic

When asked what he would miss most about

Members of the DCHS community are invit-

education.

DCHS, Dr. Deegan’s answer came easily:

ed to celebrate Dr. Deegan’s career.

which Dr. Deegan has embodied not only during his 17 years as DCHS President, but

“The people! I will miss the daily contact Dr. Deegan was also recognized for his lead-

with students, the people who work here, the

ership during the Scholastic Achievement As-

wonderful board members, pastors, bishops

sembly at DCHS in April. After the academic

and the fantastic DCHS community at all the

accomplishments of juniors and seniors were

events.“

June 29, 2017

|

5 - 7 p.m.

DCHS Gymnasium | 6:30 p.m. Program To help us plan, please RSVP: http://bit.ly/deeganparty

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

11

WELL DONE

ALL-STATE ART

MOCK TRIAL

Congratulations to Dowling Catholic art students Alicia Bump, Alison

From eight-hour practices to weekends spent preparing argu-

Donaghy, Katelyn Giblin, Kara Grossman, Allison Hellman and Alexa

ments, the Dowling Catholic Mock Trial team is full of dedicated

Seifer who have been selected for the All State Art team. Dowling

and hardworking students. That hard work paid off as they took first

Catholic High School was also named one of the top three scoring

place in the Des Moines regional competition and fifth at the state

schools overall. The students were recognized at an awards ceremony

tournament in March. Madalyn Grask and Joe Burkhart were named

honoring Iowa’s top high school art students at the Des Moines Art

Outstanding Witnesses.

Center on Saturday, April 29, 2017.

Mock Trial is a courtroom based academic competition in which stuDCHS students also had great success at the Burbs Art Show which

dents play the roles of attorney and witness and present a hypothet-

also took place in April at Waukee High School. Twenty-five students

ical trial in front of real attorneys and judges. Coached by Christine

from DCHS participated in the show which provided students with

Creighton and Kim Darr, the team spent months preparing their case.

the opportunity to attend a workshop with students from Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee, Valley, Ankeny and Ankeny Centennial. Dowling

“I’m so inspired by my teammates, how hard everyone works, and

Catholic received 15 awards, the most in the conference.

that they could balance all the extra pressures of life on top of the many hours of Mock Trial,” said junior Anna Moellenbeck. “God has truly blessed me with being on a team in the greatest activity with my best friends. It’s shaped my life in more ways than I realize.”

CHOIR HIGHLIGHTS Dowling Catholic’s 112-member A Cappella Choir traveled to Washington, D.C., to share their gifts at the nation’s capital on March 29-April 3, 2017. The singers had the opportunity to pray through song on the battlefield at Gettysburg and at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

The students also participated in a choral festival where they received the Esprit de Corps award, which recognizes personal integrity, quality character, a desire for excellence and a demonstrated strength of cooperation. Another highlight was the opportunity to participate in the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. Will Fagerland, Anushi 12

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

AWARDING EXCELLENCE Tim Sheaff, Director of Dra-

ing Arts Department has produced many award winning shows, re-

ma and Debate at Dowling

ceiving recognition through the Iowa High School Musical Theatre

Catholic, has been selected

Awards program each year since inception.

to receive the National Federation Sectional Speech,

He has been involved with IHSSA for more than 17 years, taking

Debate and Theatre Award

part in many different activities. He has managed district contests

for the nation, one of only

and served as the manager of the Public Forum division at the

eight recipients in the U.S.

state tournament since the beginning. He has been a member of

this year. Sheaff was select-

the state debate committee for two terms, an Ad Hoc member of

ed as a sectional recipient

several other IHSSA committees, and has been a national board

based on recommenda-

member for the National Speech and Debate Association in addi-

tions made during the fall

tion to serving on several other boards throughout Iowa.

from the Iowa High School Speech Association (IHSSA).

“This is wonderful recognition of the work Tim has done over the years as well as his commitment to the students and program at

“I was floored when I got the call from the IHSSA saying that they

DCHS,” said Dr. Jerry Deegan, DCHS President.

would be nominating me for the state-level award,” said Sheaff. “To then in fact receive that AND then be chosen as the Sectional Award

The National Federation Speech, Theatre and Debate Educator

winner was astonishing. The Dowling Catholic students in theater,

Award was first given in 1988. Nominations for this award are

speech and debate over the past 20 years are the ones who have

solicited from all 50 states, and awards for state and section are not

done the art. The parents and administration of the school are the

automatically given.

ones who have kept the opportunities coming. Largely I have unlocked the classrooms, turned on the lights and driven the vans.”

“A special congratulations goes out to Tim for being selected for the award this year,” said Craig Ihnen, Executive Director for the

Sheaff’s accomplishments speak otherwise. He has been teaching

IHSSA. “It is with a great deal of pleasure that the IHSSA welcomes

and directing at DCHS for 20 years. Under his direction the Perform-

Timothy Sheaff into this prestigious group.”

Wijayagunaratne, Kellen Cosgrove and Matthew Bishop were honored

to D.C. Other places choirs have traveled to include New York City,

to participate in this moving ceremony.

San Francisco and Rome to sing for the Pope in 1995 and 2005.

“This tour provided us all some ‘mountaintop’ experiences we won’t soon forget,” said Quinn Tipping ’09, Director of Choral Music at

“We travel to share our message and our gifts, and to bring beauty to

DCHS. “There is great power in experiencing a place through music. I

places beyond our classroom,” said Tipping. “It’s my hope, too, that

watched students serving as outstanding ambassadors for both

the students’ hearts and minds will be opened and renewed through

Dowling Catholic and the state of Iowa, and I also witnessed hearts

our journey. Admittedly, this lofty mission may sound ‘cliche’ or

and spirits touched by the gift of music.”

emotionally overwrought. But I believe in the power of these musical pilgrimages and was fortunate enough to be a part of this tour with

Choir students in grades 10 through 12 have the opportunity to tour

this very special group of singers.”

every three years. This is the second time a DCHS choir has traveled F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

13

SPOTLIGHT

MARY POPPINS The DCHS Performing Arts Department

Anne Teeling played the part of everyone’s

opportunity for student involvement, the fun

brought the magical tale of Disney and

favorite nanny to perfection. Mr. Banks,

and the magic that go along with this pro-

Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins to

a banker who demands “precision and

duction made the decision an easy one.

the stage in April for the spring musical

order” in his household, was played by Will

production. The outstanding cast and crew

Myers who did an excellent job portraying

“Everyone in the production crew was ex-

produced five shows, including a special

the character’s tough exterior while reveal-

cited about the fun this show could bring,”

matinee performance for parochial middle

ing glimpses of his sensitive soul. Marie

said Sheaff. “Their energy really infused this

school students.

Anderson was charming as Winifred, the

production with the magic necessary to put

loving but distracted housewife, and Jessica

on this kind of show.”

Mary Poppins tells the story of the Banks

Thomas and Will Donaghy were funny and

family living in London in the early 1900s.

delightful as Jane and Michael. Bert, the

The opportunity to honor the achievements

Things are not going well for the family as

multi-talented chimney sweep, was perfectly

of students involved in the production is

the children, Jane and Michael, are out of

portrayed by Kellen Cosgrove. These were

another great aspect of the spring musical.

control and in need of a new nanny. They

just a few members of the talented cast and

This is the fifth year DCHS students have

have their own ideas about what sort of

crew who successfully brought the magic of

had the opportunity to participate in the

caretaker they should have while their par-

Mary Poppins to the stage.

Iowa High School Musical Theatre Awards.

Adjudicators from the program attend the

ents, Mr. Banks in particular, are insistent on someone strict for the job. When a myste-

Tim Sheaff, Director of Drama and Debate at

performances of the participating schools

rious young woman named Mary Poppins

DCHS, has been directing the spring musical

and then announce the winners in late May.

appears at their doorstep, they find that

for 20 years. According to Sheaff, one of the

DCHS has received an outstanding award

she’s the answer to their prayers, but in the

things that made this production so appeal-

every year. Regardless of the outcome of the

most peculiar way. Mary Poppins takes the

ing was the opportunity for several faculty

awards, this production was one the cast,

children on many magical adventures, but

members to work together and the number

crew and audiences alike all enjoyed.

Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones she

of students involved. This was the largest

“It was really exciting to make the magic

has a profound effect upon. Even grownups

cast and crew Sheaff has ever worked with,

happen!” said Teeling. “I hope everyone

can learn a lesson or two from the nanny

and also the most technically demanding

who came out to see the show enjoyed it as

who advises that “anything can happen if

show, requiring more than 40 students for

much as we did!”

you let it.”

the crew, and a cast of 57. In addition to the

14

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

CALENDAR > MAY 25

otherwise be able to attend DCHS. Please

1400 Buffalo Road, West Des Moines

Baccalaureate Mass St. Francis of Assisi, 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines

contact Holly Ackermann at 515.222.1029

Dowling Catholic’s annual Grandparents’

or hackermann@dowlingcatholic.org with

Day is a special celebration during which

questions or for sponsorship information.

grandparents are the guests of honor. They will have the opportunity to hear from stu-

The class of 2017 will have the opportunity

dent and faculty speakers and to celebrate

to celebrate the Sacred Mass together one

> SEPT 22

last time and to be sent forth from Dowling

Homecoming, Hall of Fame Induction & Community Tailgate Valley Stadium, 4440 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines

Catholic to love and serve the Lord. Bishop Pates and Fr. Kautzky will preside over the celebration with the graduates and their

Mass with their grandchildren.

parents. Mass will begin at 7:30 p.m.

The DCHS community is invited to celebrate Dowling Catholic’s Homecoming. Join us for a community tailgate at Valley Stadium before cheering on the Maroons at the varsity

> OCT 29

football game. The Homecoming Court and

Pancake Breakfast Varied Industries Building, Iowa State Fairgrounds, 3000 East Grand Ave., Des Moines

Hall of Fame inductees will be introduced at half-time.

> MAY 26 Graduation Ceremony Drake Knapp Center 2525 Forest Avenue, Des Moines

Please join us for the 56th annual Pancake Breakfast. This fun Dowling Catholic tradition brings the community together and raises money to support students and teachers

Dowling Catholic’s commencement cere-

in fulfilling classroom needs.

mony for the class of 2017 will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the Knapp Center on the Drake Campus.

> AUG 7 Dowling Catholic Golf Outing Echo Valley Country Club 3150 Echo Valley Drive, Norwalk

> SEPT 27 President’s Council Dinner Des Moines Golf & Country Club 1600 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines

> DEC 7 President’s Christmas Luncheon Des Moines Golf & Country Club 1600 Jordan Creek Parkway, West Des Moines

This annual recognition dinner is a special event honoring those individuals who

Dowling Catholic friends and alumni are

support Dowling Catholic High School with

invited to the annual President’s Christmas

Please join us for this annual Dowling

gifts of cash or stock totaling $2,000 or more

Luncheon to kick off the Christmas season.

Catholic tradition where more than 200

annually (fiscal year July 1- June 30).

golfers come together to enjoy a day of golf

For the most up-to-date calendar informa-

to raise money for the Coppola Financial

tion visit www.dowlingcatholic.org

Aid Endowment. This fund was initiated in

> SEPT 28

the early 1970’s and continues to provide

Grandparents’ Day Dowling Catholic High School

tuition assistance to students who may not

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

15

Maroons in Health Sciences, Dowling

of today’s health care environment.

Catholic High School’s Career Exploration Program, provides students with a unique

Those who successfully complete

opportunity to gain a better understanding of

mandatory compliance education will

STEM careers and careers in health sciences.

be given access to restricted areas with-

Through partnerships with Kemin, Mercy and

in Mercy’s facilities to experience first-hand

Rock Valley Physical Therapy, the program

the medical technology used to diagnose

provides real world experience outside of the

and treat diseases and disorders. The goal in

manufacturer

classroom.

providing this access is to help students gain

committed to

a better understanding of the role and bene-

improving

fit that technology plays in health care.

health and

Sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in health sciences have the opportunity to

nutrition

explore various career opportunities with

For junior Leah Lentsch, the experience at

around the

the Mercy College of Health Sciences and

Mercy provided assurance that she is pursu-

world, the Kemin

Mercy Medical Center. As the state’s largest

ing a field that aligned with her strengths and

experience provides

Catholic hospital and the state’s only Cath-

interests.

an excellent oppor-

olic health science college, the partnership

tunity for sophomores, juniors and seniors

with Mercy allows students to gain a better

“The speakers’ knowledge and passion for

understanding of the mission-focus of careers

their jobs was inspiring, and the hands-on

in health science from leading healthcare

simulations we did gave a good look into

These students have the opportunity to

experts and educators in the community.

what is done day-to-day in these careers,”

rotate through the various local divisions,

said Lentsch. “I left assured that a career in

providing exposure to a wide variety of types

The students in the program have the

the medical field, and making a difference in

of research and techniques, as well as the

opportunity to explore careers ranging from

people’s lives, is what I want to do with my

various markets that Kemin addresses. This

family practice physician, general surgeon,

life! “

structure also provides exposure to several

registered nurse, dietician, paramedic, med-

interested in STEM careers.

different types of scientists, including chem-

ical scientist, sonographer and more. These

Kemin Industries is also a Maroons in Health

ists, biologists, engineers, microbiologists,

students also learn about the unique nature

Sciences partner. As a leading nutritional

molecular biologists and organic chemists.

16

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

don, Kemin’s Executive Director of Discovery Research and Worldwide Director of Research. “One of the main goals of our job shadows is to give students an idea of what it is like to be a professional scientist, what types of careers you could have with a STEM degree, that scientists are just regular

Dowling Catholic’s partnership with Rock Valley Physical Therapy, a provider with more than 30 locations throughout Iowa and Illinois, provides students interested in the field of physical therapy with the opportunity to work one-on-one with trained professionals. The Rock Valley program is only available to seniors, allowing them to experience the

people too, and if they were

day-to-day life of a physical therapist before

to pursue a STEM career,

committing to it in college.

what their daily work might entail. And to show them that

“The therapists at Rock Valley were so helpful

there are lots of jobs in science

and nice,” said senior Kate Kelly. “They made

right here in Des Moines!”

each class interactive by having me look up patient’s syndromes and issues to show and

Kemin is committed to STEM education not only in Iowa, but also globally at its many facilities worldwide. In Iowa, Kemin’s

teach me about muscles. This program has really helped me grow my interest and passion in health sciences!”

CEO, Dr. Chris Nelson ‘72, is the current co-chair of the Governor’s STEM Advisory

The Maroons in Health Sciences Program

Council with the Lt. Governor. Dr. Jourdon is

began at DCHS in 2011. Admission is

comes to Kemin,

also a member of this Council and has been

required to participate, and the application

they are assigned to a

since its inception. Kemin also offers numer-

process varies depending on the company.

ous teacher externship opportunities, and

Each program also requires a written recom-

sponsors an annual teacher award through

mendation from a science teacher, as well as

Each time a student

different scientist from a particular division. They are given a brief tour of the lab and the scientist describes

the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, which

prerequisite math and science courses. Mercy

what their division works on. The scientist

DCHS science teacher Ryan Lensing was a

also requires completion of a reflection form

explains what experiments they will be doing,

recipient of in 2016.

at the end of the program.

They also discuss things such as laboratory

“This year I had the opportunity to partici-

“When students are able to explore academ-

safety and the importance of confidentiality in

pate in Maroons in Health Sciences at Kemin

ic areas of interest as they relate to careers

research and why this is important to Ke-

Industries,” said senior Parker Corwin. “By

while in high school, it can provide valuable

min’s business. After providing the necessary

working with Kemin’s talented professionals,

insight on their future high school classes,

personal safety equipment, they start working

I feel more prepared to head down a scien-

and ultimately, an undergraduate college

side-by-side in the lab with the scientist.

tific career path in college. Not only was it a

major or graduate school,” said Erin Gabriel,

Every job shadow at Kemin involves hands-on

great learning experience, but it also helped

College and Career Coordinator at DCHS.

research in the lab alongside scientists.

me make real-life business connections with

“We are lucky to have three tremendous part-

people working at a large corporation. I was

ners in Mercy, Kemin and Rock Valley.”

typically providing them a written overview.

“One day students might be doing antimi-

able to test different nutritional supplements,

crobial research with our food technologies

help fight pathogens in dog food, and tour

Students interested in learning more about

division; the next time they visit they might

Kemin’s state of the art facility. I look forward

Maroons in Health Sciences should contact

be doing research on antioxidants with the

to participating in more shadowing experi-

Erin Gabriel at egabriel@dowlingcatholic.org.

pet food division; and then the next time they

ences in the future, and I’m excited to see

might be doing research on human nutrition

what scientific career I’ll end up pursuing.

supplements with the human nutrition and

Who knows? Maybe a job at Kemin will be in

health division,” explained Dr. Alissa Jour-

my future.”

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

17

TRUE MAROON

AMANDA DEVEREAUX catching CMV. “Through our journey we’ve had a lot of time to think about why this happened, how it could have been prevented, and how we can stop this from happening to other families,” said Devereaux. “With that in mind, we did a lot of research on CMV. We learned that CMV is more common than all of the things we currently screen newborns for at birth. We learned that more children will be permanently disabled by CMV than Down Syndrome, Spina Bifida and many other well known disorders.”

They decided they could make the biggest impact through legislation and began contheir journey with CMV began.

tacting senators who agreed to help them.

when a bill inspired by their daughter was

Pippa was born in October of 2015. Thankful-

not an easy one and a lot of people helped,

signed into a law. The bill was the result of an

ly she is moderately affected by CMV, howev-

emotional journey that began in 2015 when

er, she does have permanent brain damage

Devereaux was pregnant with their second

from the virus. She is unable to crawl, walk,

child, Pippa, who is now 18 months old.

talk or eat normal foods. She had her first sei-

Devereaux’s pregnancy was going smoothly

zure last year, but Devereaux feels fortunate

until the 20 week ultrasound when the doctor

that Pippa is otherwise healthy and slowly

noticed that their baby’s brain was under-

making progress. She is equally thankful that

developed. Through additional testing they

she is one of the happiest and most joyful

discovered that the baby had been exposed

children she and her husband have ever seen.

a newborn may have been exposed to CMV

Like so many others, even as a nurse, Dever-

if a baby has hearing loss they be tested

Amanda (Smith) Devereaux ’02 and her husband Paul recently celebrated a victory

to Cytomegalovirus, known as CMV. CMV is very common and usually causes no

eaux had never heard of CMV. The virus is

symptoms. Women who have previously had

so common yet awareness has been virtually

the virus aren’t at risk of passing it on to their

non-existent. Devereaux learned she caught

babies, however, if it’s contracted for the first

CMV from her toddler who attends daycare.

time during the first trimester of pregnancy

She had no idea her second child could be

it can cause devastating birth defects. The

harmed by doing normal things, such as

doctor gave them two options: they could

kissing her son or sharing a drink. Devereaux

terminate the pregnancy or do nothing. They

hopes that by sharing her story more preg-

knew termination was not an option and so

nant women will take precautions to avoid

18

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

According to Devereaux, the journey was including many of her old Dowling connections. After unanimously clearing the Iowa House and Senate, Senate File 51 was signed into law by Governor Branstad on April 20, 2017, with the Devereauxes, along with family and friends, there to witness.

With hearing loss as an early indicator that in the womb, the measure requires that for CMV. In addition, the state will provide doctors with information about CMV to share with pregnant women. According to experts, by identifying the babies affected by CMV soon after birth, early interventions may be offered to potentially minimize the developmental and neurological problems the virus can cause.

Now that the bill has become law, Devereaux

can focus on the future. They don’t know

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

what that looks like for Pippa, but they’re optimistic that she will walk and thankful she hasn’t suffered any complex medical issues.

Devereaux sees contentment in Pippa and a funny personality. She’s able to move around in a special walker and enjoys chasing her brother.

FRANK ALLEN ‘58

JOANNE REYNOLDS ‘58

MARK BIEGGER ‘80

NATALIE SCHIRA ‘08

Each year DCHS proudly honors deserving alumni of St. Joseph Academy and Dowling Catholic with the Distinguished Alumni and Young Alumni Awards. Recipients are recognized annually at the Spring Scholastic Achievement Assembly where they have an opportunity to address the student body.

The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes those who personify one or more of the following: distinction in professional life, service to their community, and/or serving as positive, inspiring role models to young adults and others in the community.

The Distinguished Young Alumni Award recognizes graduates who are under 40 years of age who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, philanthropic and/or service capabilities, and orchestrated exceptional and meaningful change as leaders in their profession or community.

Devereaux wants other families with special needs children to know that there are re-

In April we had the honor of recognizing Frank Allen Jr. ‘58, Joanne Ahrold Reynolds

sources and support available. She knows you

‘58, Mark Biegger ‘80 and Natalie Schira ‘08, our 2017 Distinguished Alumni and

can feel very isolated in a world of social me-

Young Alumna. The honorees were celebrated at a reception prior to the assembly

dia where everyone else’s lives look perfect.

where they spoke to the student body, sharing memories and words of inspiration.

She’s learned that the value of our children

For Mark Biegger, who traveled from Ohio to receive his award, and Natalie Schira,

isn’t measured by a developmental check-

who traveled from Dubuque, it had been several years since they had been back at

list and hopes to change the idea of what

the school. Frank Allen Jr. is a regular at DCHS, volunteering weekly as a greeter,

success is for children. She also wants people

which he has done for the past 18 years. Joanne Reynolds and her family also live

to realize that dreams are different for a child

locally and are able to attend many DCHS community events.

with special needs, but the dreams are still there. She knows Pippa will have successes to

To date, 57 graduates of St. Joseph Academy and Dowling have been recognized

celebrate, her successes will just be different.

as Distinguished Alumni, with the graduating class of recipients dating back to 1931.

Devereux will eventually continue her work

This distinguished group includes veterans, professionals and philanthropists, with

to raise awareness for CMV, perhaps through

many notable distinctions. The Distinguished Young Alumni award is new, with Schira

public speaking or some other avenue, but

just the fourth to be recognized in this accomplished group.

for now she plans to enjoy her two happy

Any member or friend of the Dowling Catholic/St. Joseph Academy community may

children and hope that in sharing their story,

nominate a graduate. For a complete listing of all award recipients, and to learn

and having this bill become law, they’ve

more about the nomination process and this year’s honorees,

made a difference for other families.

please visit: http://bit.ly/2pmk2Ho.

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

19

CLASS NOTES Dowling Catholic hosted a “Life After Dow-

Two DCHS alumni will be continuing their

ling” panel for juniors and seniors. The panel

football careers at the professional level.

included graduates from the class of 2016

Amara Darboh ‘12 was selected by the Seat-

who are currently attending St. Ambrose,

tle Seahawks in the NFL draft, and Matthew

University of Missouri, Wartburg, Creighton,

Haack ‘13 signed as a free agent with the

NYU, Notre Dame, Drake, Maryland, Ford-

Miami Dolphins. Darboh caught 57 passes

ham, University of Iowa, Gonzaga, University

for 862 yards with seven touchdowns during

of Northern Iowa, and Loyola. The alumni

his final season as a starting wide receiver

answered questions and shared their insights

for Michigan. Haack was a punter for Arizona

and experiences with DCHS students.

State who won the Kohls Kicking Pro Combine Punt competition and was named the 2017 NFF Chapter College Scholar Athlete.

Charles Yost ‘06 has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship. In 2010 Charles received a B.A. in Classical Languages from the University of Saint Thomas, with minors in History and Philosophy, followed by an M.A. in Medieval Studies from Columbia University in 2012.

He is now working to complete his Ph.D. in Medieval Studies at the University of Notre Dame, studying religious conflict in the eastern Mediterranean in the late Middle Ages

Luc Derry ‘13 and Luke Bishop ’13 have each been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship.

The prestigious Fulbright Scholar Program awards opportunities for international graduate study, advanced research and teaching positions worldwide. Both are 2017 graduates of Truman State University. Following graduation Derry will teach English at the college level in the Republic of Georgia and Bishop will teach in Spain.

Several Dowling Catholic alumni contributed to the success of the Bash on Buffalo,

and early Modern times. Yost currently lives

Dowling Catholic’s annual auction, which took

in Rome with his wife Lauren and son William.

place at DCHS on February 25, 2017. Eddie

He is working in the Vatican Archives while

Arndorfer ’13 entertained the crowds with

also working on his dissertation.

his musical talents, and Patrick Cashman ’01, Ryan LePera ’01 and Marc LePera ’05 of Guru BBQ provided the food.

Several alumni classes will return to the Dowling Catholic campus in the upcoming months to celebrate reunions. Dates have been set

Kellie Markey ‘84 was recently featured in

for the classes of 1957, 1972, 1977, 1967,

the Des Moines Register for the important

1982, 1987 and 1997. All classes planning

Michael Krantz ‘03 CEO of Adventureland

work she is doing in Central Iowa to help girls

reunions are invited to consider planning

Park in Des Moines, has been named to the

and young women who have been victims

a reunion mass in the Coppola Family St.

Business Record’s Forty Under 40 Class of

of human trafficking. Markey, previously an

Joseph Chapel. Visit http://bit.ly/2pOSCIX for

2017. These 40 local business leaders were

executive vice-president for eBay in San

reunion details. In addition, the Golden Jubi-

selected for their impressive career accom-

Francisco, returned to Iowa to start Dorothy’s

lee Reunion will take place at DCHS on June

plishments and community involvement.

House, which is dedicated to rescuing girls

11, 2017, for members of the class of 1967

The honorees were profiled in the March

and young women who have been sold to

and prior classes. Please call 515-222-1048 or

17 edition of the Business Record and were

trafficking. Read more about Dorothy’s House

email bpulliam@dowlingcatholic.org to RSVP.

recognized at an event on March 28.

at http://dmreg.co/1YbB2d5.

20

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

IN MEMORIAM

100 YEARS OF EDUCATION St. Joseph Academy was founded in 1884 by the Sisters of Charity of the

Dowling Catholic extends its sympathy to families of the following alumni who passed away.

Blessed Virgin Mary. What began as a small country school quickly grew

Aloyse Dowie ‘38 Margaret ‘Peg’ (Burken) Hanson

‘40

Kathryn ‘Kaye’ (Nolan) Nugent

‘41

Central Catholic High School for girls

Martin “Bob” Sheridan

‘42

by the Most Rev. Austin Dowling, the

Clare (Donahoe) Gannon

‘43

and was designated in 1909 as the

first bishop of Des Moines. Dowling High School for boys was established

Daniel Clifford ‘43 Walter Maley ‘45 Barbara (Hearn) Boatwright

‘45

in 1918 on land purchased by Bishop

Pete Leonetti Sr.

‘46

Dowling from the Des Moines College

Al Dutemple ‘47 Margaret (Brewer) Colarelli

‘47

DCHS will celebrate the 100th anniversary

Corporation. The school was known

of the founding of Dowling High School

as Des Moines Catholic College until

Jeanine (Brewer) Hagen

‘48

during the 2017-18 school year. Because

1935 when it was renamed for its late

Rosemarie Van Dyck

‘48

the mission and foundation of DCHS as

founder.

Dr. Catherine Condon

‘49

we know it today would not exist without

In 1971, the decision was made to

the legacies of our founding schools,

merge the boys and girls schools. In the

we will commemorate this milestone by

fall of 1972, Dowling High School/St.

Madeline (Karnas) Hayden

‘53

honoring the history of both St. Joseph

Joseph Educational Center opened at

Edward J. (E.J.) Davitt

‘54

Academy and Dowling High School with a

1400 Buffalo Road. We look forward to

Richard L. Dickerson

‘55 ‘55

series of events and activities throughout

celebrating the history throughout the

Gerald “Jerry” Dunlap T. Nicholas Tormey

‘57

the year.

upcoming year.

Tom ‘Harv’ Alessio

‘57

James Boatwright ‘47

John Kurtz ‘51 Terry O’Connor ‘51 Agnes Gavin ‘52

Gary Kiernan ‘59

IN MEMORY

David S. Mount

‘62

Mary Helen (Humphrey) Ruby

‘62

Rita (Bellino) Schneider

‘62

David Griffiths

‘65

Robert ‘Bob’ Bishop

‘66

Theodore Boecker ‘66 Christina Holley ‘66

Jeff Hepburn,

from 1981 to 2001 and had a tremen-

61, passed away

dous impact on many students. Jeff

Janice DePhillips ‘70

on February 23,

went on to teach at Central Academy in

Joseph P. McIlhon

‘71

Des Moines, Iowa, and retired in 2012.

James P. Swift

‘71

Henry “Rocky” Graziano

‘73

Colleen (O’Meara) Lewton

‘75

2017, at Kavanagh House after a cou-

Debra Linn (Gambrall) Cason

‘69

rageous battle with

He is survived by his brothers, Scott

Michael L. Naughton

‘75

cancer. Jeff was

(Denise) Hepburn and Greg (Kathy)

Kurt Allen Schwarz

‘75

an incredible chemist, inspiring teacher,

Hepburn, and sisters Kim (Craig) Wiles

Joseph Reser ‘81

avid fan of the performing arts, chef, pro-

and Dawn (Tom) Camamo. He is also

fessional magician and wine connoisseur.

survived by his significant other, Lisa

Megan (McNally) Little

Teaching was his greatest passion and he

Jones, former wife, Anne Hepburn, and

Reubin Alcoy

received many honors throughout his ca-

several nieces and nephews.

Laura (Timmons) Opheim

‘82

Patrick Hamilton ‘83 ‘89 2017

reer, including international recognition.

He was a beloved teacher at Dowling F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

21

High school physical education classes have come a long way since the days of dodgeball and badminton. While students do still participate in traditional P.E. activities at DCHS, the focus has shifted to include educating the individual, providing information and offering activities that will help students develop life-long healthy habits.

“As a department we want to focus on providing students with good information about the food they put into their bodies so they can be healthy for life,” said Adam Jack, P.E. teacher at DCHS. “We want to provide the cornerstone of creating healthy habits for life and teach a wellness plan for each individual.”

Jack, along with teachers Tom Barnabo, Mark Crouch and Tim O’Neill provide a variety of course offerings to students, including Team Sports, Weight Lifting, Racket Sports and Lifeguarding. Personal Fitness, a new course available in the upcoming school year, will focus on goal setting, principles of training, flexibility, cardiovascular and muscular fitness, nutrition, weight control and BMI. Developing a personal fitness program and a plan for life-long fitness will also be an integral part of the course.

Yoga is also offered at DCHS as part of the P.E. curriculum. Students can choose from Power Yoga I and Power Yoga +, depending on their level of experience. Jack, who teaches yoga at DCHS, added the practice to his fitness regimen while playing football at Eastern Illinois University. The benefits he experienced personally inspired him to become certified to teach yoga. He believes that athletes and non-athletes alike can benefit from learning to stretch and move fluidly, both of which are focuses in yoga, and that over time, most will begin to see other physical benefits as well.

22

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

Athletes at DCHS also have the opportunity to practice yoga as part of their team conditioning, in the off-season or even during the regular season, depending on the sport. According to Jack, many Division I college athletes practice yoga, so the athletes at DCHS have been willing to try it as well. Jack believes adding yoga to a training regimen can not only enhance athletic performance, but also offer benefits for overall health, something beneficial to both athletes and non-athletes alike.

Elective health courses are also available to DCHS students, providing them with information they can utilize to learn behaviors which promote a healthy lifestyle. The classes also focus on critical thinking skills essential to empowering students to choose behaviors that reduce health risks. Health I topics include

role models by participating in healthy activi-

diet and nutrition, individual wellness plans,

ties. O’Neill heads a Wellness Committee

and fitness and social health. Health II covers

at DCHS, which focuses on encour-

mental health, substance abuse, individual

aging faculty and staff members

wellness plans, fitness and CPR.

to live healthy lifestyles. Information shared includes topics

Health and wellness is also a topic often

such as maintaining a healthy

included in courses outside of the P.E. De-

diet during the holidays, nutri-

partment. Elisabeth Curie, who teaches Ad-

tion tips with meal planning,

vanced Biology and Integrated Science, reg-

weight control, stress manage-

ularly invites speakers to her classes, with the

ment, and how to stay healthy

topics often related to health and wellness.

during cold and flu season. The

Katie Paulson, a registered dietician at Mercy

committee also promotes partici-

Hospital, recently spoke to Curie’s Advanced

pation in events such as the American

Biology classes during their Biochemistry unit.

Heart Association Heart Walk and the Iowa

With her experience in the science profes-

Healthiest State Walk.

sion, she answered students’ questions about maintaining a healthy, sustainable lifestyle in today’s modern world.

Whether a student is just starting out in their personal health and fitness journey or they’ve always had healthy

Faculty and staff members also work to serve as good

habits, DCHS has something to offer so students will leave with knowledge and skills they will use for life.

F O CU S

|

SPRING 2017

23

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 1170 DES MOINES, IA

D O W L I N G C AT H O L I C

Stop by the Dowling Catholic Campus Store, located in the cafeteria, to purchase apparel and gift items!

$40 Adult Pack & Go Water Resistant Jacket Champion

$15 Adult Short Sleeve Cotton Tee Champion

$55 Women’s Quarter Zip Under Armour

Monday - Thursday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

(When school is in session.) $24 Adjustable Cap Champion $25 Dowling Catholic Beach Towel

24

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL