A PUBLICATION FOR THE DOWLING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
1
PRESIDENT’S LETTER DR. DAN RYAN
Dear Friends, With the close of the school year, it is my privilege to share with you some highlights and recent accomplishments of our students. I would like to start out by congratulating the members of the Class of 2019. They are now an important part of our alumni family which comes together under the motto: “Once A Maroon, Always A Maroon.” These graduates have demonstrated great talent and shown tremendous growth during their time at Dowling Catholic. Through donating an incredible number of service hours, participating in retreats and extracurricular activities, and their accomplishments in the classroom, they have demonstrated outstanding leadership and served as wonderful role models. They lived their faith through various projects and helped those less fortunate by collectively donating more than 50,550 hours of community service over their four years at DCHS. They also excelled in their academic studies, resulting in more than 13 million dollars in scholarship offers to a variety of colleges across the nation. We look forward to following their success as they assume their roles as leaders in our parishes and communities in the future. In reflecting on the last year, I would also like to acknowledge the teachers and staff who make this journey possible for all of us. We are fortunate to be part of this community of faith which comes together not only to celebrate success, but also in difficult times. We continue to mourn the loss of two members of the DCHS family with the passing of Wendy Swanson, a member of the World Languages Department for the last 38 years and a beloved teacher, colleague and friend to so many. We are also deeply saddened by the loss of Ross Leeper, a music teacher who spent the past five years at DCHS and shared the joys of music with thousands of students throughout his career. We also wish the best to two faculty members who retired at the end of the school year. Sally Benson spent the last 37 years at DCHS as a valued member of the World Languages Department teaching Spanish. Kathleen Dautremont spent 42 years in Catholic education, serving the last 27 as a theology teacher at Dowling Catholic. We are thankful to both for their many years of service and dedication. Looking ahead, we continue to innovate and work towards finding new ways to bring real-world experience to the classroom. This year provided us with the opportunity to pilot Insight, a program which partners teachers with local businesses. We plan to expand this program with additional business partners and are working towards creating a summer internship program in an effort to enhance our career-readiness programming. We are also raising our expectations when it comes to how we measure success, looking beyond high school to college preparation and college graduation rates. Next year, we will provide one ACT exam for every junior to be taken on campus during the school day in late March. Sophomore and freshman students will take a pre-ACT test the same day. The programming changes are part of an ongoing initiative to provide every student with the opportunity to be successful beyond high school. Thank you for your dedication and continued support. It is your partnership which makes these accomplishments and initiatives possible. With Gratitude,
Dr. Dan Ryan
2
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
CONTENTS
Focus magazine is published for Dowling
FEATURE STORY
Catholic parents, alumni and donors.
ON THE COVER Students in Mr. Ryan Lensing’s AP Biology class had the opportunity to visit Kemin Industries where they worked alongside scientists in the laboratory as part of Insight, a pilot program at DCHS which pairs teachers with local businesses to bring real-world experience to the classroom.
CONTACT
8
Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Rd. West Des Moines, IA 50265 515.225.3000 www.dowlingcatholic.org
IN EVERY ISSUE 4
6
| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE How to help every student, every day.
| ON CAMPUS
13
|
Find out about upcoming Dowling Catholic events.
14
|
Check out the latest school happenings.
10
| WELL DONE
| ACTIVITIES SPOTLIGHT All-state art team earns top award.
TRUE MAROON
CLASS NOTES Submit class notes, including your full name and class year, to
advancement@dowlingcatholic.org
Featuring outstanding and successful alumni.
16
| CLASS NOTES/ IN MEMORIAM
Success in the classroom and on the field.
12
CALENDAR
Be in the know about alumni and friends of Dowling Catholic.
18
|
THE PULSE Spotlight on the alumni community. F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
3
ADVANCEMENT UPDATE
WAYS TO GIVE Donors make a significant impact at Dowling
“We give to the Annual Appeal because we
support Dowling Catholic Athletics and, in
Catholic, providing crucial support to
realize that tuition alone does not cover the
return, receive a sports pass for home athletic
programs and resources that truly benefit all
costs of sustaining a top-rated high school.
games, a Campus Store discount, a member
students. Thanks to the generous support of
The Annual Appeal also helps lower the
recognition card and a window decal.
those who contribute, we are able to fulfill
tuition expense, giving those an opportunity
our mission of preparing Leaders for Life,
who otherwise might not have a chance to
IN-KIND GIFTS
Centered on Christ.
become a Maroon. Dowling Catholic has
Gifts in-kind, or non-cash gifts, are gratefully
meant so much to our family and has given
received in support of the many needs of
WE ARE MAROONS ANNUAL APPEAL
our two daughters a strong foundation to
DCHS.
Every aspect of the Dowling Catholic
live their lives. We support DCHS through
experience - including faith and academic
the Annual Appeal to keep it strong into the
“Why I give to DCHS is really quite simple. I
programming, student activities, athletics
future as a top-rated school in academics and
had reached a point in my life when I felt I had
and the arts - is supported by the Annual
activities while building the spiritual character
more than I needed and that my children and
Appeal. Important funding is also provided for
of our families.”
their families were doing well enough on their
improvements on campus and throughout the
Joe Pollpeter ‘80 & Kara Pollpeter
own. I wanted to start giving something back
building, including technology updates and
on a regular basis to those where I felt the
increased security measures. Funds from the
MATCHING GIFTS
greatest gratitude for what had been given to
Annual Appeal are also designated each year
Many employers sponsor a gift program
me. It was around this time that the tax laws
to enhancing our tuition assistance program,
by matching employee donations. This
were firmly fixed such that IRAs/SEPs and
making a Dowling Catholic education
is an easy way to leverage your gift into
the like could be directly contributed to tax-
accessible for all.
a larger donation. To find out if your
free institutions and not counted as income
company participates, please visit: www.
to the IRA holder. I had always been grateful
dowlingcatholic.org/giving/matching-gifts. If
to Dowling for the wonderful education,
your company is eligible, request a matching
the priests/teachers and the discipline they
gift form from your employer, complete
provided me. So, Dowling was already very
and sign the form and return it to the
high on my gratitude list, but in seeing and
Advancement Office with your gift. We’ll do
hearing all the gratitude expressed by my
the rest!
classmates at our 50 year reunion in 2010 plus the beauty of the Dowling campus, which
Isabela Yamen ‘19
ENDOWMENT FUND Build a legacy at Dowling Catholic by creating an endowment to honor or memorialize a friend, mentor or family
I had never seen before this trip, Dowling moved to #1 on the list and remains there for my foreseeable future.” Anonymous Alumni Donor
member. We will coordinate with you regarding your family’s wishes in naming the fund and the criteria.
On behalf of all of the students at Dowling Catholic who benefit from your support, thank you for your generosity. To learn more or to
DOWLING CATHOLIC ATHLETIC CLUB (DCAC) The DCAC is a way to 4
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
make a gift, please visit: dowlingcatholic.org/ donatenow.
THE BASH ON BUFFALO
More than 300 alumni, parents and friends
auction chair, enlisting the help of more than
of DCHS gathered in early February for the
30 volunteers to make this event a success.
Bash on Buffalo, Dowling Catholic’s annual
Alumni Joe Pollpeter ‘80 and Ed Schiller
auction. This year marked the 35th for this
‘79 led raffle ticket sales, and Bob Brown
great DCHS tradition which brings community
Chevrolet generously donated a 2018 Chevy
members together for an important cause -
Cruze as the top prize.
our students! Sponsorship support from Concrete Proceeds from the event go towards fulfilling
Technology, Inc., Gary Kirke, Graham
a variety of needs in the classroom and on
Construction, Hummel’s Nissan, i2 Tech, Amy
campus. A number of different areas will
and Joe Pearson, Two Rivers Glass and Door
benefit from this year’s event, including the
and R & R Realty also contributed greatly
science department and the Krause Family
to the success of the event. A special thank
Media Center. Proceeds will also be used to
you to alumnus Josh Sinclair ‘96 who shared
enhance technology and purchase new band
his musical talent on stage, and to Kue’d
instruments.
Smokehouse for providing the incredible food.
This event would not be possible without
To learn more about upcoming events and
the many volunteers who donate their time
volunteer opportunities at Dowling Catholic,
and talent and the sponsors who provide
please visit www.dowlingcatholic.org/events.
their support. Carolyn Kirchoff served as the
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
5
ON CAMPUS
STYLE SHOW Dowling Catholic’s annual Evening of Style has become a tradition for many members of the DCHS community. Hosted by the Maroon Volunteer Parents, groups purchase tables and decorate with a theme of choice, many of which include elaborate costumes and props. This year’s event benefited post prom. Guests are served dinner before watching a fashion show, a highlight yearafter-year as DCHS students and staff hit the runway wearing the latest fashions. This year’s show featured prom fashions, with shoes and gowns provided by Twist Boutique and Schaeffer’s Bridal, and tuxedos by Men’s Wearhouse. Each year a group of art students put their own twist on fashion, treating guests to a “Trashion Show” finale, wearing garments created entirely from repurposed or recycled materials. According to art teacher Brenda Kane, this year was unique as all of the work put in by the students took place outside of the classroom on their own time. “I love that they are dedicated to using their creative skills to serve their community,” said Kane. “This project is just one of the many ways our art students give back throughout the year.”
Zach Watters ‘19 & Aura Garcia Camacho ‘19
6
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
AWARDING EXCELLENCE Principal Matt Meendering was selected as a recipient of the 2019 Iowa Bandmasters Association (IBA) Outstanding Administrator Award and recognized during the IBA Awards Banquet in downtown Des Moines on May 10, 2019. The IBA annually selects three administrators nominated by member band directors to receive this award. These administrators exhibit leadership traits which support the growth and success of band programs, students, directors and school communities.
Meendering was nominated by Steve Holland, DCHS Director of Bands, and Nicholas Hoover, Assistant Director of Bands. Per the nomination, Mr. Meendering “has done more than just attend concerts and verbally support what we do in music, but has also taken direct actions that support arts education and done so with the individual student in mind.”
FAREWELL Sally Benson is retiring after 37 years at
Kathleen Dautremont is retiring from
DCHS. Benson began her teaching career
a career spanning 42 years in Catholic
in Dows, Iowa, before coming to DCHS to
education. She has spent the past 27
teach Spanish in 1982.
years teaching theology at Dowling Catholic.
“Over the past 37 years, DCHS has been woven into the fabric of my life,” said
Her career began in a small town south
Benson. “I have loved sharing the lives of
of Carroll, Iowa, where she spent two
a multitude of students, and making the
years teaching at a Catholic elementary
best of friends among my wonderful colleagues. At the same time, I
school. She then came to Des Moines where she taught at Holy
was raising my own family and experiencing the joy of watching them
Family School and St. Pius X School in Urbandale. She went on to
grow. It was a wonderful ride and I’ll forever be grateful to DCHS for
serve as Director of Religion at St. Augustin Catholic Church in Des
being such an important part of my life. Now I’m looking forward to
Moines before joining the DCHS faculty as a theology teacher in
exploring the next chapter.”
1992. During that time she and her husband of 41 years have raised three children.
Benson was looking forward to enjoying retirement alongside her friend and colleague Wendy Swanson, who passed away unexpectedly
“I have enjoyed my time at DCHS,” said Dautremont. “These 27 years
in April. The two had served together in the World Languages
have gone by so fast! During that time I have shared joys, sorrows
Department for the last 37 years.
and triumphs with students, faculty and staff. I am sad to leave but anxious to get on with the next phase of my life. I am so thankful to
“From our first day together as new teachers at DCHS in 1982, Wendy
everyone at DCHS for all of the happiness you have given me.”
was my rock,” said Benson. “We taught side-by-side for decades and were simply the best of friends. I will always treasure the lifetime of memories and laughs.” F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
7
Service to others is a cornerstone of the
will work alongside the families who will own
“Of course the students grow a lot from what
Dowling Catholic experience and just one of
the homes.
they see and experience, but we have found
the many ways students live out their faith
that they really appreciate their time more
through action. While service is a graduation
Prior to the trip, students collected donated
if they realize how hard they worked to get
requirement, the majority of students go
items and raised money to purchase goods to
there,” said Smith. “Our students are on a
above and beyond, with collective hours
stock the houses. They will bring with them
faith journey, and this trip is just one pit stop
served in the community exceeding 222,500
towels, shower curtains and other household
along the way to becoming strong disciples.
over the last three years.
necessities.
We hope the students traveling with us come home from Guatemala closer to being that
The goal of Dowling Catholic’s service
“We like to call our service trip the Guatemala
program is to ensure that students are
Project,” said theology teacher Erik Smith.
strong disciple.”
seeking to serve the community, the world
“For us, it’s not just about building houses
Summer break also provides DCHS students
at large, and to see Christ in all people. With
for the people in Guatemala. The project
with the opportunity to serve in Costa Rica
more than 20 service groups offered each
also includes building stronger students and
where they practice their Spanish and learn
semester, there are a variety of opportunities
disciples. This year, the project will end with
about the culture. Led by Spanish teacher
available to students. While the majority serve
us building five houses, but it began with 30
Lance Peterson, this summer’s trip will be the
locally, there are also opportunities to serve
amazing students planning and executing
fifth during which the group will serve at a
across the globe.
three fundraisers and a large goods drive.”
Sea Turtle rescue while taking advantage of all that nature has to offer.
One such opportunity involves travel to
Smith explained that the goal is to help
Antigua to work with Imagine In Guatemala,
students learn what it takes to set and achieve
“This trip provides students with the
a non-profit focused on improving the lives
a goal so that they walk away from this
opportunity to witness God’s beauty in nature
of residents. In June, a group of 30 students
project really valuing the importance of hard
and a chance to make a difference,” said
and 12 adults from DCHS will make the trip for
work and planning. They will spend time on
Peterson. “We get to work and stay on the
the fourth time. The group will stay with host
the trip in reflection, thinking back to different
coast with an indigenous community to save
families and travel into the surrounding hills
things they did to prepare.
turtles and make a lasting difference. We also
to build five houses from the ground up. They 8
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
go zip lining, whitewater rafting and tour the
country. It can be a life changing experience
many other cultures,” said Cain. “I think one
in one of the coolest places on earth.”
of the most amazing things our students gain on this trip is the realization that it’s such a
Spring break provides another opportunity
blessing to have the opportunity to give back.
for DCHS students to choose service over rest
It’s a gift, and this trip really makes them
and relaxation. A group from DCHS will travel
cherish it.”
to Goiania, Brazil, for the twelth time during Spring Break 2020 to work with the children
The importance of that realization often
of Terra Livre, a non-profit educational
rings true long after graduation, with many
center which provides daycare, after school
alumni seeking to serve or pursue career
workshops and community education for local
opportunities abroad. One of those alumni
families.
is Grant Otte ‘13 who moved to Nicaragua
Grant Otte ‘13
in 2017 to work for Amigos for Christ, a
with were able to make a tremendous impact,
Students spend their days at the center,
non-profit which focuses on community
treating nearly 700 patients at dental camps
striving to serve as role models to the
leadership, water and sanitation, healthcare,
in rural villages.
children. They hope to inspire confidence
education and economic development.
so that they too will someday seek out the
For Kennedy, her education also led her
opportunity to serve others and become
Otte initially worked with short-term mission
abroad. She was invited to be a student in a
leaders in their communities. Once the
groups, planning the worksite logistics
psychology honors seminar which included
workday is done, students are immersed in
and cross-cultural activities. Some weeks
a class about the implications of Western
the culture with their host families.
consisted of working with a pickaxe and
influence and colonization on the continent
shovel to hand-dig lines which bring clean
and the psychological realities that come
English teacher Molly Cain ‘10, who has served
water to rural families. Other weeks they
out of these. At the end of the course, she
twice as a chaperone, believes the trip is so
partnered with rural families to help them
had the opportunity to gain research and
impactful not only because of the opportunity
build modern bathrooms with a toilet, sink,
field experience in Namibia, a country in
for students to learn about global issues, but
shower and septic tank. Currently, his work is
Southern Africa. She spent over two weeks
also because of the bigger life lessons they
focused on measuring family incomes in the
traveling through the country, conducting
take with them.
communities, gathering data which impacts
research which focused on the curation of
organizational decisions.
“the stranger” in local Namibians, a relatively
“It is wonderful that service is so ingrained
new concept to a country full of tribalism. She
into the daily lives of our students, but they
“I love working at Amigos for Christ because
plans to continue to work with the data she
don’t always realize that’s not the case in
of our focus on maintaining dignity and
collected in the next step of her education,
working side-by-side within our communities,”
which is a doctoral program centered around
said Otte. “The impact on the people in the
global well-being. She was drawn to the
communities is what makes the work so
international focus of the program and hopes
meaningful.”
to pursue a research and teaching career at the university level. Her plans also include
Kayla Erps ‘11 and Olivia Kennedy ‘15 are two
booking a return flight to Namibia as soon as
alumni who have also had the opportunity
possible.
to work and serve internationally. For Erps, a
Kayla Erps ‘11
dental student at the University of Iowa, her
These are just a few of the many DCHS
studies provided her with the opportunity
students and alumni serving others and
to participate in a dental observership and
working to make a difference. Whether
mission trip with the Indira Gandhi Institute
they serve locally or abroad, their impact
of Dental Sciences in Pondicherry, India. In
is meaningful in the work they do and the
just six days she and the group she worked
tradition of service they carry on by example. F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
9
WELL DONE
ODYSSEY OF THE MIND
CHOIR HIGHLIGHTS
Odyssey of the Mind (OM) is an international creative problem-
A successful season for the Dowling Catholic choirs was culminated
solving program that engages students in their learning by
by a Division I rating earned at the State Large Group Contest on
allowing their knowledge and ideas to come to life. In April, a team
Sunday, May 5, 2019. The season finale took place the following
from Dowling Catholic competed in the state finals at Iowa State
evening at Sheslow Auditorium on the Drake University campus
University, placing first and earning a bid to the World Finals in May
as the singers presented a beautiful Spring Concert to the DCHS
at Michigan State University. The team also won an OMer award for
community. The following three special awards were presented
creativity in their setting.
during the concert:
OM was a new activity this year at DCHS, and team members Rosie
Eva Kilbrid received the Douglas Schultz Memorial Award in
Becicka, Kathleen Belz, Dan Choi, Mallory Hendricks, Will Jung,
recognition of outstanding service to the Dowling freshman
Ocean Oh and Drew Roemen were led by English teacher Kate Leo.
chorus; Matt Hermes was presented with the Iowa Choral Director’s
The team began preparing for the competition in September, working
Outstanding Senior Award for demonstrating outstanding
at each practice on a spontaneous problem, which is a new challenge
musicianship and leadership; and Lisa Ratsakanh received the DCHS
they have to solve as a group staying within the established
Choral Service Award for demonstrating sincere service to the choral
perimeters and rules. At the state competition and at World Finals,
program during her high school years.
the team does not know what the challenge is or what type it will be. They also compete with a long-term problem which they spend all
The month prior, DCHS had 52 entries in the State Solo/Ensemble
year creating a solution for.
Contest, earning 29 Division I ratings, the most since 2014; 20 Division II ratings; and three Division III ratings. Additionally, Stan
“Odyssey of the Mind is such a unique experience and one that most
Przedlacki and Audrey Holtkamp were awarded two of the three
people don’t really understand until they get involved, but there is
“Outstanding Performance” awards. Congratulations to all on an
really nothing like it,” said Leo. “The students brainstorm, create,
outstanding season.
write, build, problem solve and work as as a team - invaluable life skills that every employer would want an employee to possess. It’s a great extracurricular.”
10
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
SPRING MUSICAL The Dowling Catholic Performing Arts Department presented Rodgers
The story’s setting also made it appealing to revisit this production.
and Hammerstein’s State Fair to the community on April 11-13, 2019. Originally based on Phil Strong’s novel of the same name, State Fair
“The tie to Iowa is so fun,” said Sheaff. “The students really enjoy the
was the only musical they wrote directly for feature film. In 1995, the
music and singing about Ioway. After a long winter it’s also nice to
story was adapted for the stage, featuring additional songs from the
pretend it’s August.”
Rodgers and Hammerstein songbook. With America’s heartland and the Iowa State Fair as the backdrop, the storyline is one the cast, crew
For senior Eleanor Ball, who served as the stage manager, her last
and audiences alike could relate to.
production at DCHS is one of her favorites.
The musical tells the story of the Frakes as they leave behind life
“This is the tenth show I’ve done at Dowling Catholic and the fourth
on the farm for a three-day adventure at the Iowa State Fair. Set in
one I’ve stage managed, and I think it’s been my favorite,” said Ball.
1946, parents Abel and Melissa are hoping to win blue ribbons, while
“It’s the strongest bond I’ve had with any cast or crew, and I had such
their children, Wayne and Margy, are intent on finding romance and
fun working to pull the show together. It’s always daunting to organize
adventure on the midway.
such a big endeavor because in my position, you have to make sure everything in every area of the show is spot on, from the color of the
Director Tim Sheaff ‘86 shared a favorite little known fact about this
props to the logistics of the costume changes. I really enjoy tackling it
musical which was produced at DCHS for the first time more than a
though and will take great memories from this production with me.”
decade ago. The production was reviewed for the Iowa High School Musical Theater “We originally put this production on in 2008 and the cast included
Awards which provide students from award-winning musicals with the
three current faculty members,” said Sheaff. “Quinn Tipping, who
opportunity to share highlights on the Civic Center stage during the
played the lead, Mary Bartemes and Nick Spike. Now, 11 years later, we
awards showcase in June.
put on this production again and these three are now teachers.” DCHS earned Outstanding Ensemble and Outstanding Performance of Tipping ‘09 is the Director of Choral Music, Bartemes ‘10 the Assistant
Song for “All I Owe Ioway.” Will Donaghy, who played Wayne Frake, was
Director, and Spike ‘08 is a P.E. teacher and the boys head swimming
awarded Outstanding Performance in a Principal Role, named a Triple
coach.
Threat Award nominee, and was invited to participate in a workshop with Tony-award winner Brian Stokes Mitchell. Erin Greening, Stan
Sheaff selected the production not only for the storyline, but also
Przedlacki and Olivia Stange also received Special Recognition for
because it requires a large cast with many opportunities for students.
Performance in a Principal Role.
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
11
SPOTLIGHT
ALL-STATE ART
Seniors Rebecca Wagner, Mila Golebiewski,
Kansas City Art Institute, the Creative Center
to identify students with exceptional artistic
Tu Nguyen and Shae Gu have been named
in Omaha, the University of Iowa and the
and literary talent and present their work to
to the 2019 Iowa All-State Art team by
Minneapolis College of Art and Design.
the world.
team, Dowling Catholic won first place in
All four individual winners plan to study
In April, the visual arts team also competed
the competition with the top five individual
art in college this fall. Rebecca Wagner
in The Burbs, a pop-up art show featuring
portfolio scores. The team included the
will attend the Kansas City Art Institute as
22 schools and 18 different categories.
four individual winners as well as seniors
a graphic design major; Shae Gu plans to
Wagner won Best in Category and Student
Jack Eichholz and Mary Pane. The students
study illustration at the School of Visual
Choice and Ally Baumhover received Best
and their instructors were recognized at
Arts in New York City; Tu Nguyen will major
in Ceramics. This year’s show was hosted
an awards ceremony at the Des Moines Art
in graphic design at the Minerva School of
by Ankeny Centennial at the Drake Harmon
Center on May 11, 2019.
KGI; and Kamilla Golebiewski will major in
Center. Next year DCHS will host.
the Art Educators of Iowa. As a visual arts
biological medical illustration at Iowa State All-State is a portfolio competition which
University.
awards the top high school artists and art
“It is so rewarding as a teacher to see these talented students put forth the
programs in the state. Juniors and seniors
Prior to the All-State Art competition,
effort to compete, especially at the level
who are nominated by their teachers submit
Golebiewski competed in the Scholastic
of competition,” said art teacher Lindsay
a portfolio of 10 digital images of their
Art & Writing Awards competition. She
Cooper. “I am so proud of their hard work
work and three essays about their artistic
received five silver and three gold keys in
and dedication.”
experiences. The portfolios are judged by
the competition, the most ever received by
college professors and working artists, with
a single student at DCHS. Presented by the
The Visual Arts Department at DCHS also
the top 20% selected for the team. The
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, the
includes faculty members Brenda Kane,
winners receive scholarship offers from the
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are intended
Department Chair, and Valerie Heath.
12
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
CALENDAR > OCT 4
Homecoming, Hall of Fame Induction & Community Tailgate Valley Stadium 4440 Mills Civic Parkway West Des Moines Members of the DCHS community are invited to celebrate Dowling Catholic’s
> AUG 5
Dowling Catholic Golf Outing Echo Valley Country Club 3150 Echo Valley Drive Norwalk
Homecoming. Join us at Valley Stadium to cheer on the Maroons at the varsity football game. The Homecoming Court and Hall of Fame inductees will be introduced at halftime. The Stepperettes will also join us.
This annual Dowling Catholic tradition
the Coppola Financial Aid Endowment. This fund was initiated in the early 1970s and continues to provide tuition assistance to students who may not otherwise be able to attend DCHS. Please contact Holly Ackermann at 515.222.1029 with questions or for sponsorship information.
Dowling Catholic friends and alumni are invited to celebrate the season at the annual President’s Christmas Luncheon. Special
brings more than 200 golfers together to raise money for DCHS students through
> DEC 5 President’s Christmas Luncheon Des Moines Golf & Country Club 1600 Jordan Creek Parkway West Des Moines
> OCT 10 Grandparents’ Mass Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines Dowling Catholic’s annual Grandparents’ Mass is a special celebration during which grandparents are the guests of honor. They will have the opportunity to enjoy refreshments, hear from student and faculty speakers and celebrate Mass with their grandchildren.
guests include students from our band and choir programs.
> DEC 18 Young Alumni Luncheon Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines Area leaders, human resource managers and alumni from a variety of fields will provide valuable insight into specific industries, the local job market, and finding that first employment opportunity during
> OCT 27
President’s Council Dinner Save the date
Pancake Breakfast Varied Industries Building, Iowa State Fairgrounds 3000 East Grand Ave. Des Moines
This annual recognition dinner is a special
Dowling Catholic’s 57th annual Pancake
event honoring those individuals who
Breakfast is a DCHS tradition which brings
support Dowling Catholic High School with
the community together and raises money
gifts of cash or stock totaling $2,000 or
to support students and teachers in
more annually (fiscal year July 1, 2018 - June
fulfilling classroom needs.
> OCT 1
this professional networking luncheon. The event will include individual introductions, round table discussions and a featured speaker. Please contact Kimberly Bowman at 515.222.1048 with questions.
For the most up-to-date calendar information visit www.dowlingcatholic.org
30, 2019).
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
13
TRUE MAROON
PERFORMING ARTS HALL OF FAME and the University of Texas percussion ensemble. As an educator, John directed the 2017 Iowa All-State Jazz Ensemble and has served on the faculties of Drake University, Grinnell College, and Northwest Missouri State University. He currently resides in Kansas City, Missouri, with his wife Nicole and son Evan. “I’m honored to have been included
DOWLING CATHOLIC & ST. JOSEPH ACADEMY HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES Freda Nahas ‘31* 2004-2005 Aimee Beckman-Collier ‘71 2004-2005 Michael Cargill ‘85* 2004-2005 Bob Scarpino ‘45 2005-2006
John Kizilarmut ‘96 was inducted into the
in the performing arts hall of fame at
Dowling Catholic Performing Arts Hall
Dowling Catholic,” said Kizilarmut. “It was
of Fame on Saturday, April 13, 2019. The
very meaningful to return to the campus
induction ceremony took place following
with my son, and I’m proud to see how
the closing performance of State Fair,
the band program has continued to
the spring musical produced by the
grow over the years. Many thanks to all
Performing Arts Department.
involved in the process!”
Thomas Lee 2008-2009
Kizilarmut is a percussionist and
The Performing Arts Hall of Fame was
instructor who has performed with a wide
created in 2004 to be able to recognize
Jacob Nissly ‘01 2010-2011
range of artists and groups including
those DCHS alumni or faculty members
Aretha Franklin, Doc Severinsen, Matt
who have gone on to have a career in
Wilson, Jimmy Heath, Branford Marsalis,
the performing arts. It also provides
Logan Richardson, Clark Terry, New York
current students with the opportunity to
Voices, Ana Gasteyer, Shirley Jones,
see those individuals who might inspire
DJ Starscream and the Des Moines
them and demonstrate that it’s possible
Symphony. He is also a frequent guest
to achieve success in the arts beyond
performer and clinician at percussion and
high school. The initial class included one
jazz festivals throughout the midwest.
inductee from each category of vocal,
In 2013, John was a featured artist along
instrumental and theater.
with with TOCA artist Jamal Mohamed and Marimba One artist Matthew Coley
Photos of the inductees are on
at the PASIC convention. He is also an
display in the Performing Arts
active composer and arranger, and his
hallway. For more information on the
works have been featured by many award
nomination process please visit www.
winning music programs including the
dowlingcatholic.org/pahof.
Sr. Carola Broderick, BVM ‘53* 2006-2007 Karen Morrow ‘54 2007-2008
Michael Heaston ‘97 2011-2012 Leslie Scarpino ‘99 2012-2013 Robert Z Grant ‘87 2013-2014 Andrew Westerhaus ‘96 2014-2015 Karl Rohwer 2015-2016 Kevin Judge ‘05 2015-2016 John Kizilarmut ‘95 2018-2019
2013 State Jazz champion Waukee High School Jazz Ensemble, Lake Central High School Band, several DCI Drum Corps, 14
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
former faculty * deceased
Each year Dowling Catholic proudly
numerous awards for her leadership
Iowa with a business degree in 2005.
honors deserving alumni of St.
which has resulted in significant
He worked for a small medical company
Joseph Academy and DCHS with the
improvements for Polk County residents
before joining his current employer,
Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished
and strengthened the communities and
Intuitive Surgical. Since that time he
Young Alumni Awards. In April we
economy of Central Iowa.
has been responsible for building
had the honor of recognizing Angela
and implementing minimally invasive
Connolly ‘72, Dr. Steve Craig ‘72 and
Dr. Craig is a rheumatologist who has
computer assisted surgery programs
Ryan Opp ‘01 as our 2019 recipients.
worked in internal medicine patient
throughout the Midwest, a program
The honorees were celebrated with
care and medical education since his
which has grown from treating a few
a reception prior to the Scholastic
return to Des Moines in 1983. He has a
thousand patients to more than one
Achievement Assembly where they
passion for medical education and an
million annually. Opp has also made a
spoke to the student body.
unwavering commitment to health care
difference in the community by starting
administration. He currently serves as a
a foundation to raise money for a youth
Connolly served as a dedicated
clinical professor and an Assistant Dean
sports complex, an initiative which has
employee in the Polk County Public
at the Des Moines Branch Campus of
evolved into the MidAmerican Energy
Works Department for nearly 20 years
the University of Iowa Carver College of
RecPlex. The complex is anticipated to
before she was first elected as a Polk
Medicine. He loves teaching and enjoys
open in 2020 and will serve thousands
County Supervisor in 1998. She is one
getting to work with bright medical
of youth across the Midwest and will
of just three females to be elected to
students and resident physicians every
help to stimulate the local economy.
the Board of Supervisors in more than
day, including many DCHS graduates.
150 years. Connolly enjoys participating
Dr. Craig has also previously served
To learn more about our 2019 inductees,
in neighborhood organizations and
as a member of the Dowling Catholic
please visit: www.dowlingcatholic.org/
civic activities and represents the Polk
Foundation Board.
distinguished-alumni
County Board of Supervisors on several boards. She has been recognized with
Opp graduated from the University of F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
15
CLASS NOTES Dr. Laure (Marshall) Marino ‘77 has
Jennie Lillis Baranczyk ‘00 has been
been elected to a two-year term as
named to the Des Moines Register’s
President of the West Virginia Nurses
list of the 50 best Iowa high school
Association. Dr. Marino is an assistant
girls basketball stars of all time.
professor of nursing in the WVU
Baranczyk has served as head coach
Graduate School of Nursing and a
of the Drake University women’s
nurse practitioner in private practice in
basketball team since 2012.
Charleston, West Virginia. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice with a concentration in Executive Leadership from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. Tim Sheaff ‘86, Director of Drama and Debate at Dowling Catholic, has been selected as a new member of the National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA) Hall of Fame, the highest honor available to speech and debate coaches. Throughout his career, Sheaff has coached many teams to
Jimmer Dorweiler ‘03 has been inducted into the Iowa High School Swim Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Dorweiler is a director for the Piper Jaffray Investment Banking Group in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Christine Stewart-Nunez ‘91, a Professor of English at South Dakota
considerable success, including state
State University, was awarded the
and national championships. He is
2018 Whirling Prize in Poetry for
also the recipient of four Diamond
“Bluewords Greening,” her fourth
Awards from the NSDA and serves
collection of poetry. The 2018 prize
as a member of the NSDA Board
focused on the theme of disability.
of Directors. Read more: http://bit.
Learn more about her work and career
ly/2Vq3phl
at: http://bit.ly/2DZl6JH.
Laura Downey ‘07, now Sister Mary
The current alumni network of over 16,000 Dowling Catholic graduates
Esther, was recently featured in the Catholic Mirror where she shared
Maria Beermann-Foat ‘90 has earned
spreads across 50 states and
how she discovered her calling and
a Ph.D. in Organization & Management
many continents. We invite you to
the path to where she’s at now. She
from Capella University. She currently
stay connected! Subscribe to our
previously taught for one year at
resides in the Kansas City area and
alumni newsletter, update your
DCHS and currently teaches theology
serves as a Battalion Chief for Med-Act
information, or submit alumni news
at Notre Dame High School in Peoria,
Emergency Medical Services. She also
at dowlingcatholic.org/alumni. Follow
Illinois. She will make her final vows
works for the National Fire Academy
us on social media at facebook.com/
in July 2020. Read more at http://
in Emmitsburg, Maryland, as a contract
Dowling-Catholic-High-School-Alumni.
bit.ly/2YgMtXw. Sister Mary Esther’s
course designer and instructor. She
brother, Deacon James Downey ‘11, will
previously earned an MBA from
be ordained a priest for the Diocese of
MidAmerica Nazarene University.
Des Moines in June 2019. 16
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
IN MEMORIAM
IN MEMORY
We extend our sympathies to the families of the following alumni who
WENDY SWANSON
DCHS in the World Languages Department
passed away.
where she was a beloved teacher, colleague
Everett Jerome Beeson ‘43
and friend to many. She inspired a love of
Mario A. Zenti ‘43
The Dowling Catholic
language, culture and travel for countless
Theresa Grace (Sitroneto) Campbell ‘46
community mourns
students through her classes and trips abroad.
Mary Helen (Cavanaugh) Bertrand ‘47
the loss of Wendy
She is remembered by her colleagues for her
James Menard Meston ‘47
Swanson, a long-time teacher who passed
kindness and generosity as well as her warm
Sally L. (O’Meara) Hummel ‘48
away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 9, 2019.
smile and laugh. Wendy was six weeks from
Dominic “Meco” Colosimo ‘50
retirement and had planned to travel the
William J. Fultz ‘50
Wendy was born on January 26, 1957, in
world with her beloved husband, David.
Jacqueline (Jackie) Fettkether Gerk ‘50 John Kingston Hayes ‘50
Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Vern and Martha
Delia “Dee” (McGuire) Ross ‘51
Swanson. She graduated from Valley High
In addition to her husband, Wendy is survived
School and went on to receive a bachelor’s
by two brothers, Curt (Julie) and Greg; two
degree in education from the University of
nephews; a great-niece and great-nephew;
Northern Iowa and a master’s in psychology
and many other beloved family members. She
from Drake University.
was preceded in death by her parents. She
Mary Ann (Riley) Halter ‘54
will be greatly missed and fondly remembered
Dolores (Fitzpatrick) Long ‘54
by all who were privileged to know her.
Mary K. “Casey” Murphy Self ‘54
Her career as a French teacher spanned four decades, with the last 38 years spent at
Martin A. Siron ‘51 Esther (Favaro) Leo ‘52 Lawrence L. Betsinger ‘54 Dennis R. Donahoe ‘54
James Anthony DiMaio ‘56 James Huelskamp ‘56 Thomas Charles O’Neil, Sr ‘56 Ralph Compiano ‘57
ROSS ALLEN LEEPER
and they married in 1956. He served in the
Richard Mozga ‘58
U.S. Army Band for two years, taught junior
Larry Leo Coleman ‘59
high band for 32 years and was conductor of The DCHS community
bands at Simpson College for 11 years. After
is saddened by the
a brief retirement he returned to teaching
loss of Ross Leeper,
and was the high school band director in
Andrew Kasper ‘60 Thomas C. Wilson ‘61 Charlotte “Carlie” Brien David Mount
‘62
‘62
Joseph Shelledy ‘62
a music teacher, who passed away on April
Knoxville, Iowa, for 10 years before retiring
11, 2019.
from full-time teaching at age 78. He came
Mary Ellen Swatta ‘64
out of retirement once again and spent the
Miriam Armintrout ‘66
Ross was born on November 27, 1933, to Merle
past five years teaching music several days a
Mary Kay Cummings Tamasi ‘66
and Ruth (DeVault) Leeper on the family farm
week at DCHS.
Tommy Leo ‘66
near Earlham, Iowa. His love of music led him
Mary Kay (O’Connell) Edgerton ‘63
Patrick T Nassif ‘67
to pursue a degree in music education, first at
In addition to teaching thousands of students
Kathryn Daly Vandermeulen ‘67
Simpson College and then at Drake University
the joys of music, he served as a mentor to
Carol Anne (Renaud) Krultz ‘71
where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree
many and was a proud father and grandfather
Mark Steven Morris ‘71
in 1955 and later earned a master’s degree.
who will be greatly missed.
Martin “Marty” Lose ‘72
He met his wife Shirley (Paasch) at Simpson
Maria Christina Montalvo ‘75 James Brown ‘79 Teresa Heger ‘79 Kirk Manning ‘82
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
17
THE PULSE
ALUMNI COMMUNITY As an alum of Dowling Catholic you are always a valued member of the community. The current alumni network of over 16,000 Dowling Catholic graduates spreads across 50 states and many continents. No matter the graduating year, the location they call home or chosen profession, common values describe each DCHS alumni faithful, caring and dedicated. All alumni form one family - the Maroons. We invite our alumni to stay connected to the school and to one another, ensuring the experience they enjoyed at DCHS is honored, preserved and carried on for generations to come. Whether attending or volunteering at community events, going to a reunion, or getting married in the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel, there are many ways for alumni to stay connected and to continue to make a difference at DCHS. For volunteer information or to learn more about our upcoming events please visit: www.dowlingcatholic.org/events
18
DO O WLIN WLIN G G CATH CATH OLIC OLIC H H IGH IGH SC SC HOOL HOOL D
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. Focus is a publication of Dowling Cathlic High School.
PRESIDENT: Dr. Dan Ryan DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT: Kimberly Bowman EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Tara Nelson ART DIRECTOR: Colin Gargano COPY EDITOR: Rachel Brown CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Holly Baumgartel Colin Gargano
Our academic excellence provides opportunities for our alumni to achieve career success all over the country. we are proud to have alumni living in all 50 states as represented in the map above.
Earl Hulst
SUBSCRIPTION: To notify the school of address changes or personal updates, please contact advancement@dowlingcatholic.org 515.225.3000
F O CU S
|
SPRING 2019
19
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO. 1170 DES MOINES, IA
$24 Brushed Zinc License Plate Holder
24/7/365 online!
dchscampusstore.com Campus Store: 515-222-1012 campusstore@dowlingcatholic.org
$35 Youth Cheer OutďŹ t Sizes 2T - 8 $16 Comfort Wash Tee Hanes
SAVE 15% ON YOUR NEXT PURCHASE Please present this coupon or use code SUMMER19 online Some exclusions apply. Uniforms, special order uniforms, club/activity apparel, Spirit Signs, and Spirit Sign riders are not included in this offer. Offer cannot be applied to previous purchases.
20
D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL
$7 Spirit Pennant $3 Lip Balm
$24 Trucker Mesh Cap Champion