Focus Magazine XII

A PUBLICATION FOR THE DOWLING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

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SUMMER 2020

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER DR. DAN RYAN

Dear Friends, I hope you are enjoying your summer and are staying healthy and safe. I would like to thank you for your ongoing partnership which has made a tremendous difference as we continue to navigate these trying times. The end of the school year came in a manner we could have never predicted but we were able to quickly pivot and finish the school year remotely. This would not have been possible without the support of our parents and the hard work and perseverance demonstrated by our students, teachers and staff.

Looking ahead, I want to share with you our commitment for the upcoming school year and provide an update on the preparation taking place. After conducting an internal analysis and gathering feedback from our teachers, students and parents, we have created a plan to help guide us forward.

This plan will operate under a continuum taking into account the various scenarios related to COVID-19. The first phase is our traditional setting with new protocols; second is a hybrid model combining in-person instruction with online learning capabilities; and the third is 100% virtual instruction. Our intention is to return to campus in August, however where we start on the continuum will ultimately depend on what is determined to be the safest learning environment at that time. The health and safety of our students and those in our community is at the forefront of every decision and we will modify the plan as necessary.

Significant technology upgrades have taken place over the summer which will provide students with a seamless learning experience in the classroom or virtually. Each student will also receive a Chromebook laptop to use through graduation. This was made possible in part by the tremendous community support we received when it became necessary to transition our largest fundraising event to a virtual format. Thanks to the success of the “Bash Online” in April, we were able to purchase a number of new Chromebooks, allowing us to provide this much-needed equipment to all of our students.

You will also read in the pages ahead about the accomplishments of the Class of 2020 and their graduation ceremony which took place in late June. We are incredibly grateful for our partners at Principal Park who made it possible for us to provide these graduates with this welldeserved celebration.

In this issue we also recognize the recipients of our year-end student, faculty and staff awards which are traditionally celebrated at the Scholastic Achievement Assembly in April. Instead, we celebrated their accomplishments virtually via social media and have also highlighted them in this issue.

One final highlight I will share is the five-year anniversary of the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel which was blessed and dedicated on May 9, 2015, by the Most Reverend Bishop Richard Pates. We hope to celebrate this milestone and those who made it possible in person in the future, but in the meantime have included a story highlighting the many ways the chapel has become the heart and home of Dowling Catholic High School.

During these uncertain times I am reminded of how blessed my family and I are to be part of the Dowling Catholic community. Your prayers and support for our students, teachers and staff have been greatly appreciated and provide comfort as we plan for the months ahead. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. May God bless you all.

Yours in Christ,

Dr. Dan Ryan

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CONTENTS

Focus magazine is published for Dowling

FEATURE STORY

Catholic parents, alumni and donors.

ON THE COVER The Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel was blessed and dedicated on May 9, 2015, by the Most Reverend Bishop Richard Pates. On the fifth anniversary, we celebrate those who made it possible and the many ways the chapel has become the heart and home of Dowling Catholic High School.

CONTACT

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

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

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| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE Fulfilling the DCHS mission.

| ON CAMPUS

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Find out about upcoming Dowling Catholic events.

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Check out the latest school happenings.

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| WELL DONE

| SPOTLIGHT DCHS recognizes year-end award recipients.

| TRUE MAROON

CLASS NOTES Submit class notes, including your full name and class year, to

advancement@dowlingcatholic.org

Celebrating the Class of 2020.

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Success in the classroom and on the field.

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| CALENDAR

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

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| THE PULSE Spotlight on the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel.

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ADVANCEMENT UPDATE Julie Bell has been named the Director of Advancement at Dowling Catholic High School.

Bell has more than 20 years of experience engaging community members and leading successful development campaigns with faith-based educational institutions. She most recently served as Vice President for University Advancement at Quincy University, a private liberal arts college rooted in Catholic Franciscan tradition located in Quincy, IL.

Born and raised in Des Moines, Bell’s previous experience includes work at her alma mater, Grandview University, where she served as Director of Development and Director of Development & Alumni Relations. She recently returned to Iowa with her husband, Marty, and has two grown children and two grandchildren who all reside in the Des Moines area.

“Returning to Des Moines and working for Dowling Catholic is a dream come true,” said Bell. “Having lived in Des Moines for the majority of my life, I am keenly aware of Dowling Catholic’s exceptional reputation in the community. I am able to continue working in a faith-based environment and transfer my skill set to securing support for a younger population of students—one that is so critical to the future of our world. I look forward to meeting the alumni, friends, faculty and staff who have established and continue this tradition of excellence.”

Bell replaces Kimberly Bowman ‘78 who served on the Advancement Team since spring of 2018 and left to pursue new adventures with her husband.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

For almost 80 years, Dowling Club members have been raising awareness, enthusiasm and funding for Maroons in interscholastic and intramural sports, providing students with the opportunity to learn and grow at all levels. Through participation in these programs, students learn invaluable lessons about teamwork, collaboration and engaging with others to accomplish great things, all while establishing life-long friendships.

In addition, Dowling Club support enables us to enhance our athletic program tremendously in a number of ways, including upgrading and maintaining athletic grounds and facilities, ensuring that all programs have uniforms and equipment, providing support to coaches, and much more.

We are pleased to announce a change in membership to engage more sports fans and to keep you and our ticket-takers healthy. The new Dowling Club membership levels are: • Individual Adult Pass: $100 • Future Maroon Pass (K-8 students): $50 Membership includes a pass providing admission to all home sporting events (excluding tournament play), and a one-time 15% discount in the Campus Store (some restrictions apply). To purchase a Dowling Club membership, please visit: dowlingcatholic.org/dowling-club or call Kathy Kirby Power at 515.222.1002.

The Bash on Buffalo, Dowling Catholic’s

community members together in support

biggest annual fundraising event, went

of students and families impacted by the

virtual this year in support of DCHS

current health crisis. Proceeds were used

students. The “Bash Online” kicked off

to provide tuition assistance and other

on April 14 with a silent auction and

support to DCHS families in need of help

ended the evening of April 18 with the

during this difficult time.

live auction, fixed bid parties, wine pull and announcement of the 50/50 raffle

More than 675 registered bidders

winner. The evening also included musical

participated virtually from nine

entertainment from Final Mix Show Band

different states throughout the U.S. The

and appearances from alumnus John

tremendous support from parents, alumni

Sears ‘00 of WHO-TV in Des Moines who

and friends generated revenue which

served as emcee.

exceeded the amount raised the year

Many donors and alumni generously contributed items and experiences to the Bash Online, including artist Jimmy Navarro who donated a handcrafted cross and Dr. Ed Maginn ‘83 and Andy Tometich ‘85 who provided an exclusive Notre Dame football package.

prior. In an effort to support Dowling With the onset of COVID-19, the purpose

Catholic’s quick pivot to online learning in

of this year’s event shifted to bring

response to the pandemic, bidders were able to purchase Chromebooks to be used

by DCHS students. More than $21,000 was donated to this initiative, allowing for the purchase of 75 Chromebooks.

The success of this year’s event would not have been possible without the generous support of local businesses and the contributions of our incredible volunteers. We are immensely grateful to the following event sponsors: Global Direct Mail and Marketing, i2Tech,

Auto Sales, Pamala Gilmore Salon and Boxwoods Fine Furnishings.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to event co-chairs Katie Jensen and Barb Scholz and to the many other dedicated volunteers who served on the Bash on Buffalo committee. Their incredible support made the Bash Online an evening to remember and a great success for our students.

Hummel’s Nissan, Integrity Printing, Tom’s

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ON CAMPUS

9 LAP CHALLENGE On June 9, Dowling Catholic faculty, staff,

together was very powerful.”

students and family members gathered in the rain on campus to complete the

The challenge drew participants from

#9 Lap Challenge, an initiative started by

throughout the metro and around the

Aundra Meeks, assistant football coach and

country, with videos posted on social media

theology teacher with help from Jarred

using the hashtag. They challenged others

Herring, student support specialist and head

to participate and to organize challenges

boys track coach at DCHS.

in their own communities. A new Dowling Catholic activism scholarship was also

The purpose was to bring the DCHS

created as part of the initiative to encourage

community together to stand in solidarity

students to make a difference in the

against racism and for justice and racial

community and to be an activist for change.

equality. The number nine signified the last minutes of George Floyd’s life.

Herring participated with his two-year-old son and had his future in mind as he encouraged

“Our world needs it, our community needs

others to keep the movement going.

it,” said Meeks. “So standing arm and arm

AWARDING EXCELLENCE Each spring Dowling Catholic recognizes faculty and staff members with two special awards. Named after our founder, the Bishop Dowling Award is given to four faculty or staff members who exemplify Dowling Catholic’s values of being faithful, caring and dedicated. This year we are pleased to honor Bruce Baedke, Larry Baldwin, Barb Hemann and Kristin Meyer as recipients of the Bishop Dowling Award.

The John Baptist de La Salle award was initiated in 2014 by Joe Brick and his family in honor of Janet Brick who passed away in 2011. Janet worked tirelessly in many volunteer capacities at DCHS and was remarkable in her quiet and unassuming way, touching the hearts of those around her. Janet was also very grateful for the education her four children received at DCHS. Each year the Brick family chooses a teacher who represents the qualities of Janet and the philosophy of de La Salle who was a pioneer of Catholic education: to work in a way that makes a difference by touching the hearts of students. We are proud to recognize Kasey Tickel as this year’s recipient of the John Baptist de La Salle Award. Congratulations and thank you for all that you do!

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“I’m looking for a better tomorrow where he doesn’t go through the things I’ve gone through and other people of color have gone through,” said Herring.

Averie Meeks, a senior at DCHS and Aundra’s daughter, also participated in the challenge and shared that she was proud of her father and the school administration for standing behind the movement.

“I want to know my school is behind me and is backing people of color up,” said Averie.

“Change will take time but even the longest journey begins with a single step.”

FAREWELL With the close of the school year, we also said goodbye to three Dowling Catholic faculty members who have completed their teaching careers.

We also wish all the best to Mary Bartemes, Chrissy Daggett, Bob Hallgren and Chris Harbaugh as they pursue their next endeavors. We are grateful to these outstanding educators for their many years of service and their tremendous contributions. They will all be greatly missed.

Susan Doss has

Barb Hemann

Jay Hoskey

been a faculty

has been a

joined the

member in

member of the

Dowling Catholic

the science

English faculty

community in

department

since 2004. The

2016, bringing

since 1998. She

many things

more than

has made a

she will be

30 years of

difference in the

remembered

experience with

lives of so many in her twenty-one years at

for include her leadership of the DCHS

the South Tama Community School District.

DCHS, inspiring students with her passion

ministry at Bishop Drumm Retirement

As a science teacher and football coach, he

for science and love of teaching.

Center and the culture of kindness she

has made a tremendous impact on so many

created in the classroom.

students and been an invaluable member of the DCHS community.

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L ike most aspects of daily life,

have ever predicted.

education has been significantly

“Our core values of being faithful, caring and dedicated came to the

impacted by COVID-19, requiring

Implementing distance learning

forefront. Every one of our teachers

innovation and a monumental shift

in such a short timeframe took a

and staff members went above and

to keep students learning and

tremendous amount of hard work

beyond, helping each other and

growing during these trying times.

and resourcefulness. The technology

collaborating to provide our students

Last semester, as schools around the

team at DCHS quickly worked to

with an environment to continue

country were grappling with challenges

equip teachers and students with

learning. Rather than looking at

presented by the pandemic, Dowling

the necessary tools. Chromebooks

this situation as a roadblock, they

Catholic was able to quickly pivot to

were distributed as needed, and

approached it as a hurdle to overcome.

online learning, allowing students to

families without internet access were

We modeled what we want our

finish the school year remotely.

connected with resources to help

students to learn.”

them acquire it. Students adapted to Preparation began in the weeks leading

the new learning environment and

Beyond academics, students

up to spring break as administrators

resumed classes just one day later

faced additional challenges and

began planning for a scenario which

than originally scheduled, and there

disappointment as all activities and

seemed unlikely at the time. Upon

was tremendous support from parents,

interaction with peers came to an

dismissal for break, students were

many of whom were dealing with their

abrupt halt. Events were cancelled, and

advised to bring books and materials

own jobs shifting to at-home work or

seniors had unknowingly walked the

home to be prepared in the event that

being eliminated altogether.

halls for the last time, missing many

they couldn’t immediately return to

important milestones along the way.

campus due to rising concern over

“The speed and efficiency that we

COVID-19. That unlikely scenario

were able to transform to a completely

Along with the significant shift in their

quickly became reality as the school

online format was simply amazing,”

daily routines, students’ faith lives

year shifted in a way that no one could

said Matt Meendering, DCHS principal.

were also disrupted, requiring them to

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

change how and where they usually

to connect with and motivate one

celebration. The Class of 2020 will be

pray. Dr. Ryan, president at DCHS, can

another, sharing workouts, instrumental

remembered for their leadership and

see how the circumstances surrounding

and vocal performances, and even a

accomplishments, but even more so for

the pandemic can both challenge and

virtual art show. The daily prayer and

their positive outlook and commitment

strengthen a student’s faith.

announcements were shared via social

to achieving their goals during the

media, and the sense of community

most trying of times.

“Like many of us, our students had

remained strong even when it was

grown accustomed to certain routines,

necessary to be apart.

Looking ahead, Dowling Catholic

such as praying in the chapel at lunch,

has created a Safe in School plan to

attending Mass, and visiting with a

provide guidance as students return

chaplain,” said Ryan. “Without these

to school. The plan will operate under

options, students were forced to create new routines, and our staff did an outstanding job of showing students how to create a prayer routine on their own and also hosted opportunities to pray together virtually. Ut Fidem brought students together for prayer, and Huddle, a new group focused on faith for student-athletes did the same.

For our seniors, I see this as a good test run as they leave Dowling Catholic and continue independently on their faith journey.”

Eve r y o n e o f o u r te a c h e r s a n d s t a f f m e m b e r s we n t a b ove a n d b eyo n d , helping each other a n d co l l a b o ra t i n g to p rov i d e o u r s t u d e n t s w i t h a n e nv i ro n m e n t to co n t i n u e l e a r n i n g .

Matt Meendering, Principal

a continuum accounting for various scenarios related to COVID-19. One phase is the traditional setting with new protocols to be implemented around cleaning, classroom structure, entry to the building, and more; second is a hybrid model combining in-person instruction with online learning; and the third is 100% virtual instruction.

The intention is to return to campus in August, but the format in which school resumes will ultimately depend on what is determined to be the safest learning environment at that time.

Despite the many curve balls thrown their way, students found ways to make

The plan also includes significant

the best of an unimaginable situation.

For seniors, months of anticipation

technology upgrades in each classroom

Staying connected socially and

came to an end in late June when they

which will provide students with a

emotionally is challenging on a remote

were finally able to walk across the

seamless learning experience in the

platform, but the strong community

stage at Principal Park to receive their

classroom or virtually. Training will

foundation that exists at DCHS made

diplomas, marking the end of their high

be provided for teachers, students

it easier. Students used social media

school careers with a well-deserved

and parents, and each student will receive a Chromebook to use through graduation.

“The health and well-being of our students, staff, teachers and parents will always be at the forefront of every decision,” said Ryan. “I am confident in our ability to fulfill our mission and provide an excellent education in the coming year and am thankful for the many prayers and tremendous community support we have received.”

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WELL DONE

IOWA ACADEMIC DECATHLON

IOWA SEAL OF BILITERACY

Months of hard work paid off for Dowling Catholic’s

Sixty-six world language students from Dowling Catholic

Academic Decathlon team as they earned second place

High School earned the Iowa Seal of Biliteracy this spring.

at the state competition which took place at East High

This award is given by school districts to recognize students

School in Waterloo on March 6-7. DCHS was one of 12 large

who have attained proficiency in two or more languages,

schools to qualify based on their performance at regionals

one of which is English, by high school graduation.

where the team also placed second and brought home 30 individual awards.

The seal is intended to promote foreign language study and engagement as a global citizen, preparing students

In addition to the team’s successful finish, several DCHS

for life beyond high school. Students who have earned the

students also earned individual honors at the state level.

seal are prepared with 21st century skills that will benefit

Brigid Smith won dual state championships in both Speech

them in the employment market and the global society. The

and Interview. Michael Fraizer was named state champion

recognition of attaining biliteracy becomes part of the high

in Math, earned a silver medal in Economics, and a bronze

school transcript and diploma. Congratulations to these

model in Speech. Jack Drey was a bronze medalist in Math,

outstanding students on this great accomplishment. To view

while Bryce Green earned silver in Economics and bronze in

names and photos of all recipients, please visit:

Math. Mori Liu and Jake Lehrman earned second and third

https://bit.ly/2DCHpaG

overall in the alternate category. The team was led by Kasey Tickel, Spanish teacher and World Language Department Chair, who has coached the Academic Decathlon teams at DCHS for the last eight years. Congratulations to the entire team on their success.

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2020 ANNUAL BAND AWARDS The Dowling Catholic band program is proud to recognize

FRESHMAN, SOPHOMORE AND JUNIOR AWARDS

students for their achievements and contributions with

Michael Cargill Jazz Scholarship Award – Nick Celsi

awards presented annually each spring. Congratulations to the

Sean Runyan Memorial Scholarship Award – Nick Alexander

following 2020 recipients:

Directors Award for Band – Emily Nguyen (Freshman) Directors Award for Band – John Cahalan (Sophomore)

SENIOR AWARDS

Directors Award for Band – Jude Borromeo (Junior)

John Philip Sousa Band Award – Nick Bindel Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – Stephen Cahalan

While an in-person ceremony was not possible this year,

Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award – Lauren Pogemiller

Mr. Holland, Director of Bands, and Mr. Hoover, Assistant

Reubin Alcoy Memorial Award – Madison Seda

Director of Bands and Director of Percussion, provided

Most Improved Senior Award – Erick Sanchez-Oritz

special recognition for these outstanding students virtually.

Service and Commitment Award – Caleb Reichow

The virtual recognition is available online. Awards: https://bit.

Woody Herman Jazz Award – Joshua Bartemes

ly/37IYgnq | Year-End Tribute: https://bit.ly/3fvZO6H

Quincy Jones Musicianship Award – Jen Sweeney Good Samaritan Award – Lucas Johnson

VIRTUAL CHOIR RECOGNITION While the pandemic prevented the Dowling Catholic choirs

demonstrated sincere service to the choral program during

from performing their spring concert and closing out the

their high school years. The Douglas Schultz Memorial Award

school year together, Quinn Tipping ‘09, DCHS alumnus

was presented to Charlotte James, a member of the concert

and Director of Choral Music, still found a way to celebrate

choir in recognition of outstanding service to the Dowling

the accomplishments of his students. In a virtual year-end

Catholic freshman chorus.

presentation shared via YouTube, Mr. Tipping honored the recipients of three special choral awards and paid tribute to

Mr. Tipping also paid tribute to Mary Bartemes ‘10, DCHS

the graduating seniors.

alumna and assistant choral director for the last four years, wishing her the best in her new endeavor and thanking her

Sandy Paz-Garcia received the Iowa Choral Director’s

for sharing her musical gifts. Lindsay Sheldon will join DCHS

Outstanding Senior Award, presented to a student who has

as the new assistant choral director in the fall. To view the

demonstrated outstanding musicianship and leadership in

year-end choir video, please visit: https://bit.ly/2YyzYIk.

the choral art. Peyton Riewer received the DCHS Choral Service Award which is presented to a senior who has F O CU S

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SPOTLIGHT

STUDENT AWARDS Dowling Catholic proudly

principles valued by Dr. Bob

attitude. Mr. Hayes was athletic

for fellow human beings as

recognizes students with year-

Breedlove himself. Dr. Breedlove

director at DCHS from 1977 - 2005.

demonstrated through Christian

end awards. Congratulations to

was the father of several DCHS

the following 2020 recipients:

graduates and athletic team

JUDITH SHEAHAN AWARD

through words and actions to

service; and inspire others

doctor for many years. He

Kathleen Cain, Tommy Hancock &

live a Christ-centered life. The

AMERICAN CITIZENSHIP AWARD

was known for his generosity

Amelia Jennisch

recipient is selected by the

Lilly Sullivan & Brigid Smith

as demonstrated through the

Sr. Judith Sheahan was an

senior class and delivers the

This award recognizes

countless hours of medical and

assistant principal at DCHS and

commencement address.

seniors who demonstrate

personal support he provided to

a service-oriented leader. The

good citizenship, a sense of

DCHS athletes and coaches.

Maroon Council awards two

SCHOLAR ATHLETES OF THE

sophomores who demonstrate

YEAR

leadership and selfless service.

Katie Broderick & John Culver

responsibility and service to the community.

FATHER JOHN ACREA AWARD Zach Harnden & Christopher

Two seniors are selected by the

BERNIE SAGGAU AWARD

Pierson

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON YOUTH

Athletic Department for achieving

Mallory Wilson

This award is presented to

LEADERSHIP (NCYL)

outstanding success in academics

This award is presented to the

students who have shown

Ally Baumhover, Gabby Chiodo,

and athletics.

senior who best exemplifies

commitment, dedication and

Jack Drey, Zach Fry, Lindsay

a patriotic spirit with strong

determination in debate. Father

Grask, Raquel Greenslade, Katie

SISTER CLEMENZA COMMUNITY

religious and moral convictions;

Acrea founded the debate team

Huey, Ryan O’Halloran, Delaney

SERVICE AWARD

living and professing the

in 1963 and impacted an entire

Orewiler, Luke Posegate, Stan

Allison Baumhover & Ryan Smith

qualities of honesty, integrity and

generation of DCHS debaters.

Przedlacki, Mallory Wilson

This award honors seniors who

Selection is based upon

have excelled in the spirit of

sportsmanship; and believing that games and life should be

JACK WAHLIG AWARD

leadership qualities and scholastic

Christian service. Sr. Clemenza,

conducted by the rules. Mr.

Sofia Pigneri, Marianna Etcheto,

record, including maintaining at

a former DCHS counselor, was

Saggau was Executive Director of

Teagan Kavan & Ralston Rumley

least a 3.5 GPA.

known as the “go-to person” to

the IHSAA for 38 years.

This award honors a retired

get things done. This award is not

accountant and parent of DCHS

2020 NATIONAL MERIT

based on the number of service

DCHS SPIRIT AWARD

alumni who expected his children

SCHOLARSHIP FINALISTS

hours, but on the ways the student

Joseph Bussey & Lindsey Grask

to be involved in school activities,

Ryan O’Halloran, Megan Szalay &

has served the people of God.

This award is presented to

strive for excellence, exhibit

Jack Drey

students who model integrity

leadership and care for others.

The National Merit Corporation

VONNIE HESS AWARD

and moral character. Their

The award recognizes freshmen

recognizes students who

Maya Freking & Antonio

positive spirit and sharing of time

who excel in these areas.

excelled on the PSAT with scores

Banuelos-Moriel

above the superior academic

This memorial tuition award

performance level.

was created in honor of the

and talents are true examples of Christ-centered leadership.

JOHN HAYES AWARD

Faculty selects seniors who best

Max Brown & Anna Flynn

represent the spirit of DCHS.

Selected by the athletic

PAX CHRISTI AWARD

president, Fr. Michael Hess.

department, these students

Caleb Reichow

Recipients are selected based

DR. ROBERT BREEDLOVE AWARD

exhibit strong leadership and

The Pax Christi student is

on participation in activities that

Karleigh Osborn & Simon Daniel

dedication to activities, athletics

committed to Christian faith and

fulfill Dowling Catholic’s mission

This award recognizes juniors

and academics; demonstrate

service and actively participates

of community involvement;

who best model hard work,

commitment to hard work; live a

in the life and spirit of DCHS.

achieving above average grades;

leadership and courage while

faith-life modeled in service; and

They exemplify Christ-centered

and involvement in extracurricular

exemplifying the Christian

exude a caring and supportive

leadership; have respect

activities.

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caring mother of former DCHS

CALENDAR In lieu of the annual dinner, those

> OCT 25 Pancake Breakfast*

individuals who support Dowling Catholic

Iowa State Fairgrounds

with gifts of cash or stock totaling

3000 East Grand Ave., Des Moines

$2,000 or more annually (fiscal year

This great DCHS tradition brings the

July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020) will receive

community together and raises money to

special recognition individually and in our

support students and teachers in fulfilling

published annual report.

classroom needs.

President’s Council Recognition

*These dates and locations are tentative.

> OCT 8 Grandparents’ Mass*

> DEC 3 President’s Christmas Luncheon*

We anticipate events will look different in

Dowling Catholic High School

Glen Oaks Country Club

most current information is available at:

1400 Buffalo Road, West Des Moines

1401 Glen Oaks Drive, West Des Moines

dowlingcatholic.org/events.

Grandparents are the guests of honor at

DCHS parents, friends and alumni are

the special celebration.

invited to celebrate the season at the

the coming months due to COVID-19. The

annual President’s Christmas Luncheon.

HELP BUILD A BETTER FUTURE THROUGH A GIFT IN YOUR WILL ■ Costs you nothing in your lifetime ■ Preserves your savings and cash flow ■ Can be changed or revoked at any time ■ Allows you to be more generous than you ever imagined ■ As easy as adding a paragraph in your will A gift to DCHS in your will or living trust helps us continue our mission to build Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ.

By sharing with us your gift intention you become a Dowling Catholic Legacy Society member. This enables us to recognize you during your lifetime. Or you can remain anonymous.

To include a gift to DCHS, please designate the Dowling Catholic Foundation, an Iowa nonprofit corporation, indicating a specific dollar amount, percentage of estate or exact description of property to be devised. Gifts are used to support tuition assistance unless otherwise designated.

Please let us know if you have already included us in your estate planning. Contact Kathy Kirby Power ’80 at kkirbypower@dowlingcatholic.org or call 515.222.1002.

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Dowling Catholic’s Class of 2020

life and spirit of DCHS; takes their

They demonstrated outstanding

closed the chapter on their high

Christian faith seriously and practices

leadership and served as role models,

school careers with a long-awaited

it daily in and out of school; and

leading retreats, all-school prayer

walk across the stage at Principal Park

inspires others through their words and

and planning and participating in

on Friday, June 26. Bishop Joensen,

actions to live a Christ-centered life.

all-school masses. They lived their

superintendent Donna Bishop,

faith by helping those less fortunate,

Father Ryan Andrew ‘04 and DCHS

The ceremony was a great celebration

collectively serving 16,350 hours

administrators were all present to help

of all that these students have

during the 2019-2020 school year and

the graduates celebrate this milestone.

accomplished throughout the last

more than 53,400 hours during their

four years. Even when their time

four years at DCHS.

The commencement address was

on campus ended abruptly due to

delivered by Caleb Reichow ‘20, the

COVID-19, they continued to work

Leading up to the ceremony, members

Pax Christi Award recipient. Selected

hard and grow in every aspect of

of the DCHS community found ways

by the senior class, the Pax Christi

their God-given gifts. They excelled

to celebrate the graduates as they

student is one who: demonstrates

in their academic studies, and as a

faced disappointment over canceled

a commitment to Christian faith

group were offered more than $11.2

events and activities. On Friday, May

and service while actively and

million in scholarships to colleges

15, what would have been their final

enthusiastically participating in the

and universities across the nation.

day in the building, a drive through

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

TRUE MAROON

celebration took place on campus.

their strength, determination and

Faculty, staff and parents lined the

perseverance. They are now an

perimeter with signs to recognize

important part of Dowling Catholic’s

the graduates as they drove through

alumni family which comes together

campus and received a grab and

under the motto, “Once a Maroon,

go lunch from Kue’d. The event

Always a Maroon.” Congratulations

was spearheaded and generously

and best of luck to the Class of 2020.

sponsored by DCHS families who wish to remain anonymous. The celebration

The graduation ceremony can viewed

also included a food drive to benefit

online at: https://bit.ly/2BC8Dhg

Catholic Charities, with the Class of 2020 making a monetary donation to accompany the truckload of food items they contributed.

As they move on to the next chapter of their lives, these graduates will always be remembered for F O CU S

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Each year Dowling Catholic proudly honors

his famous speeches he called for everyone

Washington University in St. Louis in 1977 and

deserving alumni of St. Joseph Academy

to believe - in God’s love, in themselves and in

graduated from Drake Law School in 1980.

and DCHS with the Distinguished Alumni

each other. This embodied the Dowling spirit

and Distinguished Young Alumni Awards.

and is why Dowling still holds a special place

In 1981, Libby began one of several stints

We are honored to recognize Robert “Bob”

in Bob’s heart to this day.

working for the State of Iowa. After working

Nizzi ‘58, Elizabeth “Libby” Nelson ‘73 and

for the Department on Aging, she clerked

Alison (Blyth) Weisheipl ‘00 as our 2020

Bob left Dowling to pursue a career as a

for a federal bankruptcy judge. In 1984,

award recipients.

counselor and football coach at Boys Town

she joined the Attorney General’s Office,

in Omaha, NE, using his passion and what he

representing the Department of Revenue

Bob Nizzi graduated from Dowling High

had learned to help a whole new generation

on tax issues. Libby then entered private

School in 1958. He was a leader who excelled

of young adults. He retired from Boys Town

practice, performing transactional law,

in the classroom and on the football field,

after 16 years of service in 2005.

litigation, debtor-creditor work, real estate

lettering his junior and senior years and

law and corporate governance. She returned

serving as team captain all four years. He

Bob and Adelaide have seven children and

to service with the State as an administrative

served as class vice president his sophomore

19 grandchildren, with their twentieth due

law judge focused on the area of workers’

year, as president his junior and senior years

later this year. Bob’s son, Chris, followed in

compensation, and the primary mediator

and earned the Aquinas Key award.

his footsteps and currently serves as head

for resolving disputes between claimants,

football coach at BoysTown. One of Bob’s

employers and insurance carriers.

Bob graduated from Loras College and

favorite past times is helping him coach

married his wife, Adelaide, in 1961. He started

and continuing to develop young men for

Libby then moved on to increased

working at Dowling High School in 1964

the future.

responsibilities with the Attorney General’s

where he spent 24 years as a teacher, dean

Office, representing the Iowa Lottery, General

of students, counselor and football coach. He

Libby Nelson is a 1973 graduate of Dowling

Services, the Iowa Communications Network,

met life-long friends during his tenure and

High School. She was born in Des Moines,

the treasurer, the auditor, the Higher

enjoyed every opportunity to impact a young

the second of five children to R.W. and Mary

Education Loan Authority and the Iowa

person’s life. Bob was known for his ability to

Nelson. Following high school she went on

Finance Authority. She left the State in 2001

quiet a gym during a pep assembly. In one of

to complete her undergraduate work at

and joined Kemin Industries as chief legal

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

officer. She is currently vice president and general counsel, responsible for intellectual

IN MEMORIAM

property and regulatory affairs, audit,

Dowling Catholic extend its sympathy to the families of the following

administrative services and environmental

alumni who have passed away.

health and safety for North America. Libby is a member of the Board of Directors for Kemin, where she also serves as an officer.

Genevieve Porto ‘40 SJA

Kay (Menough) Heimes ‘60 SJA

Kathy (Marasco) Cortese ‘43 SJA

Michael “Mike” R. McCoy ‘60

Sr. Mary Ann Coyle ‘43 SJA

Jim Mahoney ‘61

She has two sons and currently resides in

Patricia Joyce ‘44 SJA

John McClure ‘61

West Des Moines, Iowa. In her free time she

Robert Scarpino ‘45

Tom Dorrell ‘62

enjoys reading, gardening and keeping track

Rachel Marturello ‘47 SJA

Dr. Roberty Ludwig ‘62

of her dog Ocho.

Lyle Carpenter ‘48

Mary (Lydon) Schuman ‘62 SJA

Mary Louise (Biondi) Harvey ‘48 SJA

Robert Barnard ‘63

Dr. Alison (Blyth) Weisheipl is a 2000

Rev. Edward Pfeffer ‘48

Robert “Bob” Fontanini ‘63

graduate of Dowling High School. She

James Duff ‘49

Jean (Chiovaro) Stajcar ‘63 SJA

participated in swimming and was a

Sr. Mary Jo Swift ‘49 SJA

Patricia DeMarco ‘65 SJA

James “Jim” Boesen, Sr. ‘50

Linda (Fusaro) Goode ‘65 SJA

James Gorsche ‘52

Donna Murphy ‘65 SJA

Sr. Carolyn Farrell ‘53 SJA

Allyn Salz ‘65

Robert Kirke ‘53

William “Bill” Glynn ‘66

James Alessio ‘55

Max Holmes ‘67

Angelina (Celsi) Scavo ‘55

James R. Steilen ‘67

Tom Soller ‘55

Peter William Standera ‘68

State, she attended Medical College of

David Ward ‘55

Steven “Bosco” Baedaro ‘70

Wisconsin in Milwaukee where she pursued

Sam Andreano ‘56

Mary E. Ocken ‘72 SJA

anesthesiology as a specialty.

Virginia “Ginger” (VanOrsdel)

Gary DeVore ‘73

member of the state-winning medley relay team. She was recruited by Truman State University for both athletics and academics where she majored in exercise science and became a four-time Division II national champion swimmer. After Truman

Campbell ‘56 SJA Following medical school, she moved to Chicago to complete her intern year of

Mary Louise (Calabretta) Stephany ‘56 SJA

Terri (Vander Linden) Elias ‘73 Rick “Rock” Stone ‘73 Mary “Katy” (Conley) Pepper ‘79

residency where she won a resident of

Richard “Joe” Brafford ‘57

Chris Crawford ‘84

the year award as voted on by her peers

Frank Comito ‘57

Michael “Mike” Guthrie ‘84

Irene (Bogdanvos) Sampson ‘57 SJA

Andrea Carter ‘88

Judy (Rossiter) Tatz ‘58 SJA

Tara (Pearson) Swift ‘93

Joyce Biondi ‘59 SJA

Mitch Benskin ‘04

Susan Patava ‘59 SJA

Timothy “Tim” McDonald ‘08

and staff physicians. She and her husband moved to Boston where she completed an anesthesiology residency program at the prestigious Brigham and Women’s Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital.

While at Harvard, Dr. Weisheipl was elected Chief Resident of her anesthesiology residency and participated in mission trips to

management. Upon completion of fellowship,

Moines. Dr. Weisheipl is on the leadership

Dominican Republic and through the Indian

Dr. Weisheipl continued as staff at Harvard

team for the national organization Women in

Health Service. She went on to complete an

doing interventional pain management and

Neuromodulation and speaks at a number of

Interventional Pain Management Fellowship

anesthesiology.

local and regional conferences.

the winner of the 2013 American Academy

Dr. Weisheipl returned to Des Moines in

To view a complete list of Distinguished

of Pain Medicine’s Pain Medicine Fellowship

2015 where she resides with her husband

Alumni Award recipients, please visit:

Excellence Award. In addition to her work

Mark and their children, Miles and Clara.

https://www.dowlingcatholic.org/alumni/

as Chief Resident, Dr. Weisheipl is also

She currently serves as medical director

distinguished-alumni

co-author of a textbook on surgical pain

of Central States Pain Clinic in West Des

at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and was

F O CU S

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In the first Mass celebrated in the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel, the Dowling Catholic brass choir captivated those in attendance

COPPOLA FAMILY ST. JOSEPH CHAPEL

Five-Year Anniversary

performing a piece composed by

In the summer of 2014, construction began

which surmounts the lantern atop the chapel,

Dowling Catholic alumnus Conner

on the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel.

the lantern itself serving as a beacon of Christ

Tipping ‘07, Grandis Templem

The chapel was named in honor of the all

to all who pass by the school.

Sancti Joseph. The ending chant

girls school, St. Joseph Academy, which was

of Tipping’s composition was

operated by the BVM sisters until it merged

The chapel was blessed and dedicated on May

the 14 notes of the melody,

with Dowling when the new school opened on

9, 2015, by the Most Reverend Bishop Richard

“Terribilis est locus iste,” meaning

Buffalo Road in 1972.

Pates. For students, alumni, faculty and staff,

“magnificent is this place!” Now,

the Coppola Family St. Joseph Chapel is a

five years later, Dowling Catholic

The architectural form of the 350 seat chapel

place to pray, a place to grieve, a place for

continues to affirm and echo that

resembles an ark and stands as a sign that

gratitude and a place to build community. On

sentiment in new ways.

Christ resides on our campus, lives in our

this five-year anniversary, we celebrate the

hearts, and guides our work. The shape is

many ways the chapel has become the heart

intended to convey the notion that Dowling

and home of Dowling Catholic High School.

Catholic, and the spiritual and academic

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

programs it provides, offers safe passage from

We are grateful to the Coppola family and

adolescence into young adulthood. Formed

almost 2,000 loyal supporters who made the

in faith, truth and wisdom, Dowling Catholic

chapel a reality. The community’s generosity

students are prepared to enter the world with

is the reason the chapel exists today --

a sense of mission rooted in Jesus Christ. This

generosity that will impact the faith journey of

mission is boldly proclaimed by the cross

generations to come.

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.

Three of the stained glass saint windows located in the Narthex, St. Kateri Tekakwitha,

PRESIDENT:

St. Rose of Lima and St. Gianna were

Dr. Dan Ryan

commissioned for the opening of the new chapel. The other eleven windows are from

DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT: Julie Bell

the old Dowling High School chapel. These windows were carried over to the co-ed high school chapel when it opened in 1972 and

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Tara Nelson

restored in 2015. The Wall of Saints beautifully draws the eye and illuminates the Narthex as the westward sun sets over campus.

ART DIRECTOR: Colin Gargano COPY EDITOR:

Brother William Woeger, a liturgical consultant involved in the planning and design, describes the

Rachel Brown Kathy Kirby Power ‘80

symbolic rationale behind the chapel windows.

CONTRIBUTING “The design for the Dowling High School Chapel windows generated lively conversations

PHOTOGRAPHERS: Colin Gargano Earl Hulst

around the needs of the students and the mission of Dowling Catholic. In the end, it

CONTRIBUTING WRITER:

was decided that the windows would express the principal areas of study contained

Rachel Brown

in the curriculum as well as some of the extracurricular activities provided by the school. In addition, each window would include an image of a saint whose patronage is associated with the theme of that particular window. The central message of the chapel

SUBSCRIPTION: To notify the school of address changes or personal updates, please contact advancement@dowlingcatholic.org 515.222.1002.

windows affirms that the work of salvation is centered in genuine, human activity and is informed by the Holy Spirit. All knowledge (beauty, truth, goodness) leads us to the Divine.”

F O CU S

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SUMMER 2020

19

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