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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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 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
6
| 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. F O CU S
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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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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. F O CU S
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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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SUMMER 2020
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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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SUMMER 2020
17
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
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