Focus Magazine XIII

A PUBLICATION FOR THE DOWLING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER Dear Friends,

I hope you enjoyed a wonderful Christmas and that this letter finds you and your loved ones well. I know that many of you continue to face great adversity due to the pandemic. We continue to pray for peace and healing and the hope that a new year brings.

As I reflect on the past year and the unprecedented challenges of 2020, I am filled with gratitude for this community and the support we have received as we navigated a semester unlike any we have ever experienced. Despite those challenges, we have much to be thankful for at Dowling Catholic. I feel blessed to be able to share some of those highlights in the pages that follow.

In recent months I have seen students living their faith through the Christmas Basket service project, a tradition brought to us more than 50 years ago by the BVM sisters at St. Joseph Academy. This year when the need was greater and the opportunities for seniors to engage others were limited, our students were able to help 112 families, a number greater than ever before. This is a testament not only to the giving nature of our students, faculty and staff, but also to the generosity of those in the DCHS community.

In the pages ahead you will also read about the activities and accomplishments of our students that in today’s environment are nothing short of extraordinary when considering what it takes to make these things happen during a pandemic. All this was made possible in large part due to our faithful, caring and dedicated faculty and staff who go above and beyond on a daily basis.

You will also read about the legacies of several families whose support has been crucial in helping us to fulfill our mission and remove obstacles for those seeking a Dowling Catholic education. The opportunities they and other Legacy Campaign donors are so generously creating will make a tremendous difference for future generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support of Dowling Catholic. It is your partnership that makes these accomplishments possible.

In Christ,

Dr. Dan Ryan

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CONTENTS

Focus magazine is published for Dowling Catholic parents, alumni and donors.

FEATURE STORY OUR MISSION 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.

ON THE COVER Dowling Catholic’s annual Christmas Basket service project concluded on December 11, 2020, with the Candlelighting prayer service, a tradition started more than 50 years ago by the BVM Sisters from St. Joseph Academy.

This year students were able to provide assistance to 112 local families in need.

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DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT: Julie Bell

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

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Fulfilling the DCHS mission.

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| TRUE MAROON Be in the know about alumni and friends of Dowling Catholic.

| CLASS NOTES Learn about alumni and friends of DCHS.

| WELL DONE Success in the classroom and on the field.

| IN MEMORIAM Extending sympathy to the families of alumni who have passed away.

| ON CAMPUS Check out the latest school happenings.

PRESIDENT: Dr. Dan Ryan

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| CALENDAR Find out about upcoming Dowling Catholic Events.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Tara Nelson ART DIRECTOR: Colin Gargano COPY EDITOR: Rachel Brown

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

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ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

MATCHING GIFTS Many employers sponsor a matching gift program, providing an easy way to leverage your gift. If your company is eligible, please request a matching gift form from your employer and return to the Advancement Office at Dowling Catholic with your gift. We’ll take care of the rest!

Donors make a significant impact at Dowling Catholic, providing crucial support to programs and resources that truly benefit all students.

Some companies also match gifts made by retirees and/or

Thanks to the generous support of those who contribute, we are able to

spouses. To find out if your company participates, please visit:

fulfill our mission of preparing Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ.

dowlingcatholic.org/give/matching-gifts

Every aspect of the Dowling Catholic experience - including faith and academic programming, student activities, athletics and the arts - is supported by the Annual Appeal. Important funding is also provided for improvements on campus and throughout the building, including

WELCOME TO DOWLING CATHOLIC

technology updates and increased security measures. Contributions

Please join us in welcoming

also help cover the gap between tuition and the cost to educate each

Ryan Vogt to the Advancement

student, minimizing tuition increases and helping to remove barriers

Team. As the Annual Appeal

for those seeking a DCHS education. To make a donation, please visit:

Manager, Ryan’s work will

www.dowlingcatholic.org/annual-appeal

focus on fundraising efforts, expanding community

BOOK OF GRATITUDE

relationships and helping to

Our tradition of publishing a Book of Gratitude continues with an

the future.

build a strong foundation for

‘online’ publication so we can more efficiently acknowledge and celebrate the people and organizations that support our school.

His previous experience includes work with the Iowa Sports Foundation, Catch Des Moines and most recently Dwolla where he

We appreciate the tremendous contributions of our faculty and staff,

worked in sales development. Ryan grew up in Fort Dodge, Iowa,

families, alumni, local businesses and volunteers. We recognize that

and attended St. Edmond Catholic High School and Loras College

the majority of people in our community contribute far more than

in Dubuque, Iowa.

financial resources. You give of your time and your talent – and for this we are most grateful.

“Growing up in the Catholic school system had a huge impact on my life,” said Vogt. “The values, leadership qualities and faith formation

A special thanks to our Board of Education and Foundation Board for

helped me make a decision to continue my Catholic education

their leadership and generosity. We also want to express our gratitude

throughout college as well. Having the chance to work for Dowling

to those who are leaving a legacy through bequest intentions

Catholic and being part of this faith community is a huge honor. I

benefitting generations for years to come. Your support truly helps to

look forward to helping advance the school’s mission.”

keep our mission alive as we prepare students to become Leaders for Life, Centered on Christ. Together, We Are Maroons!

Ryan and his wife Emily live in Ankeny with their two daughters, Valerie, age three, and Vivienne who is nine months.

To view a list of donors for fiscal year 2019-2020, please visit the following link: https://bit.ly/3l5BxHi 4

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Kathy Kirby Power ‘80, a member of the Advancement Team at Dowling Catholic, has been promoted to Advancement Operations and Alumni Manager. Kathy came to DCHS in July 2019 as an administrative assistant. In her new role, she will execute strategies to engage the active alumni community and will oversee gift processing.

Her prior experience includes over 25 years with the Gannett Company in advertising and customer service management. Most recently she was the administrative assistant to the principal at St. Augustin School for eight years.

Kathy is a 1980 DCHS alum. Her daughters Kirby and Allie graduated in 2018 and 2019 respectively. Her son Jack is a DCHS sophomore. Her husband Ted is a retired Gannett Co. newspaper executive.

THE PANCAKE TRADITION CONTINUES Dowling Catholic’s 59th Annual Pancake

without the dedicated volunteers who so

Global Direct Marketing and Panera Bread

Breakfast looked different this year, however

generously donated their time and talent.

served as presenting sponsors, while

the spirit behind this great DCHS tradition

Josie and Jim O’Halloran and Jen and

the following businesses also provided

remained strong. In lieu of the breakfast

Paul Damge served as co-chairs, while

sponsorship support: Iowa Dental Art, West

which typically takes place at the Iowa State

approximately 200 additional parents and

Bank, Equitable Advisors (John Schneller),

Fairgrounds, community members came

students also volunteered.

Hartung & Schroeder Law Firm, Hummel’s

together on campus for a drive-through event held at DCHS in late October.

Nissan, Iowa Dental Group, JD Carpenter The generous support of local businesses

Companies, Loffredo Fresh Produce,

also helped make this event a great

Morrissey’s Fine Jewelry, Oakwood Builders

Guests were treated to the same delicious

success. Harvey Sergio of Heartland

Group, Palmer Group, S & C Automotive and

pancakes, however this year required that

Products supplied the pancake mix as he

State Farm Insurance (Matt Cale).

they mix their own batter and serve them

has done for many years; Matt Drey at Elite

from the comfort of their own homes. As

Beats provided the music; Julie Groeteke

Thank you to all who attended and

they entered campus, visitors were treated

provided Card My Yard signs; and O’Halloran

supported this year’s event. Your support

to warm coffee and entertainment provided

International and Capital City Fruit provided

truly makes a difference for our students

by the DCHS drumline, dance team and

transportation and logistical support.

who benefit from this great DCHS tradition.

cheerleaders. As they circled the building, future Maroons from local parochial schools also provided entertainment, performing routines they had learned at cheer and dance clinics led by DCHS students the week prior. As guests departed, they received breakfast kits containing batter mix, butter and syrup, with many sharing photos via social media as they made their pancakes at home.

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ON CAMPUS

OFRENDA Each fall students in Dowling Catholic’s Art Club create an ofrenda in celebration of Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos. The ofrenda, also known as an altar, serves as a visual reminder of the deceased and is an essential part of the Latin American holiday which is observed on November 1 and 2.

This is the 17th year DCHS students have created an ofrenda under the guidance of Mrs. Brenda Kane, an art instructor who also serves as Art Club moderator and chair of the Art Department. Kane sees the ofrenda as a great example of how DCHS brings individuals together as a community of faith, uniting those of different cultures and interests through their intentions during the month of November.

“November is the time to remember,” said Kane. “It is when we commune with the saints and all the departed. We love and pray for those we have lost. Through this cultural and Catholic tradition, we learn to love and support one another, both the living and the dead united, because we are eternally connected.”

In previous years, the ofrenda has often paid tribute to

an individual or group from within the DCHS

on earth. Other pieces were symbols of

community. This year’s ofrenda, however, was

cultural significance, such as the marigold

created in honor of Iowans who have lost

flowers, which according to folklore, attract

their lives to Covid-19, each represented with

the souls of the departed, and monarch

a slide on a scrolling digital screen. Work on

butterflies which carry the souls.

this year’s ofrenda began in September when seniors Taylor Ibach, a team leader, and Cece

All Art Club members were encouraged

Villa, Art Club co-president, began gathering

to help with some aspect of the ofrenda.

names of the deceased from websites with

In addition to Taylor and Cece, Abi Sachs,

the help of Kane.

Art Club co-president, Olivia Salsberry and Sophia Penisten, Art Club officers, and Luz

Sitting in an enclosed glass case near the

Corvera-Mata all contributed significantly

school entrance, the ofrenda also included

to the project. In total, twenty students

a variety of items ranging from food and a

used their time and talents to create this

Bible to sunglasses and a Virgin Mary statue.

meaningful tribute.

The majority of the items were handmade by students, intended to represent things enjoyed by the deceased during their time

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CHRISTMAS BASKETS In early November, Dowling Catholic

to the way the project typically operates.

students kicked off the annual Christmas

not ‘just another day’ during the Christmas Baskets season. This year, the need for

Basket tradition. Started more than 50

Jeff Ferguson, a teacher and director of

assistance was greater than ever and

years ago with the BVM Sisters, this time-

student activities who has been leading

Dowling Catholic responded. In my 29 years

honored tradition provides DCHS students

the project for nearly three decades, was

of doing Christmas Baskets I have never

with the opportunity to help families in

confident that despite the challenges, they

experienced an outpouring of compassion

need during the Christmas season.

would find a way to complete the project.

for others like we did this year.”

What he didn’t anticipate was the level The project is led by the senior class

of support that would allow them to help

The project concludes with the

with participation from faculty, staff and

more families than ever before.

Candlelighting prayer service before the

students in all grade levels. Each “Christmas

seniors go out in the community to make

Basket” included groceries, toiletries,

“My old adage is that ‘It’s just another day

deliveries to their families. Those activities

clothing, household items and other gifts

at Dowling Catholic,’ meaning we seem

looked different this year, however the

for the family. This year the need was

to do the extraordinary every day,” said

impact was even greater as 112 local

greater, the opportunities for seniors

Ferguson. “The community, teachers, staff,

families were able to have a merrier

to engage others were limited, and the

students, parents and alumni always seem

Christmas thanks to the generosity of those

pandemic presented additional challenges

to rise to the occasion. However, this was

in the DCHS community.

RETIREMENTS The first semester brought changes in the Athletic Department, Student Services and the Principal’s Office as three longstanding staff members retired. We are grateful for their tremendous contributions and many years of service. They will each be greatly missed.

Cyndi O’Hare retired

Mary Pick,

Denise Rourke,

effective August 21,

administrative

administrative

2020, after 25 years of

assistant in the

assistant in the

providing support to

Athletic Office, retired

Principal’s Office,

the school counselors

effective November

retired effective

and demonstrating

24, 2020, after 20

September 18, 2020.

great kindness and

years of service to the

compassion to those

DCHS community.

visiting Student Services.

A dedicated staff member since 2012, Rourke served in the Principal’s Office

Her life at DCHS began when sons Matt ‘98

providing support first to Dr. Dowdle and

“Working at Dowling was a great joy in

and Josh ‘01 were students. Pick first served

then to Mr. Meendering. She also provided

my life,” said O’Hare. “I made lifelong

DCHS for three years in the Parent’s Guild

tremendous support to teachers and

friendships and certainly there was never

office before joining the Athletic Department

students and greeted everyone with a smile.

a dull moment. I so enjoyed working with

in 2003. Her contributions at DCHS have

the students and seeing them become

been tremendous, and her positive attitude,

Among her many contributions, she

wonderful young adults in pursuit of their

incredible work ethic and willingness to help

implemented the faculty absence

dreams. Dowling will forever hold a place in

others made her invaluable.

management program and streamlined

my heart.”

the hiring process for substitute teachers, In 2017, she was inducted into the DCHS

always ensuring that every classroom was

Her retirement plans include hugging and

Athletic Hall of Fame for her many

covered. In retirement she looks forward to

spending time with her seven grandchildren

contributions to the athletic programs. Her

enjoying time with family and friends.

(post-Covid) and traveling with her husband.

future plans include travel and adventures with her husband Ron in their retirement.

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In the early 1980s, a foundation was created at Dowling Catholic

unfortunately prevent some students from ever entering our doors.

High School to provide financial support to the school and

Therefore, it has been determined that the public phase of this

families attending. Today, nearly 40% of DCHS students receive

campaign will continue with a focus on estate gifts and the goal of

tuition assistance. While the foundation has grown significantly, a

raising an additional $10 million dollars to strengthen the foundation

gap between demonstrated need and available awards still exists.

over the coming years. This will provide additional opportunities for students to benefit from a Catholic education beginning in

To address this need, the Legacy Campaign was established

kindergarten and continuing through graduation.

in 2017. It was determined that the foundation would need to increase by $10 million dollars to significantly reduce the unmet

Today we celebrate not only those who have shared their

need of current DCHS students. Thanks to the generous support

stories in the pages ahead, but all of the individuals and families

of approximately 50 individuals and families, the silent phase

whose support made this possible. Many have a strong history

exceeded expectations and reached the goal of raising $10 million

of philanthropy and storylines that intersect. Others have been

dollars by July of 2021.

impacted in some way by Dowling Catholic and simply want to give back. We are grateful for the support of each of these donors which

We are aware that financial obstacles still exist which

will truly have a lasting impact for generations to come.

comes to the quality

done in how many graduates retain their faith.

of education DCHS provides. What truly

“We have a great passion for helping students

drives their passion,

beginning in grade school,” said Joe. “It

however, is the

really starts there and is important that the

value they place on

faith development continues throughout

Catholic education

high school. That unified approach of faith

and the importance

development in K-12 is something we strongly

of establishing a

believe in. Programs at Dowling Catholic

Joe and Marilyn Lane have a commitment

strong foundation in faith. That passion has

such as Ut Fidem are so important in helping

to giving back that is rooted in a passion

led to their generous support of the Legacy

students strengthen their faith and maintain it

for helping others and their strong Catholic

Campaign which has been so instrumental to

through high school and beyond.”

faith. With all five of their children having

advancing the school’s mission.

graduated from Dowling Catholic, they believe there is no comparison when it 8

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

Ut Fidem, a Latin phrase meaning “Keep the They see the true measure of how well this is

Faith,” strives to develop high school students

active in helping Holy Family School when it was at risk of closing.

He taught Junior Achievement classes at the school and the students would share with him how desperately they wanted to go to Dowling.

“It was eye opening for him and thus it became important to all of us,” said Sharon. “It was through his interactions, and later through family board terms on the Holy Family School Foundation board, that we recognized the importance of supporting Holy Family School. We in turn recognized the need to assure that any student, Holy Family or otherwise, who wanted to attend Dowling Catholic would be able to do so. We support Dowling Catholic campaigns to ensure that happens.”

Kyle and Sharon Krause have generously invested in the future of Dowling Catholic through the Legacy Campaign, helping to

They see so many positive changes at DCHS that came out of the

ensure that the school’s tradition of excellence will continue for

interaction with Holy Family and the intention of helping students

generations to come. Among the many ways they continue to

gain access. New programs were created to ensure that once students

support Dowling Catholic, they view the goals of this campaign in

were in the building, those who were at risk received the interventions

particular as truly aligned with their Catholic values.

necessary to help them succeed. When those programs were in place, the focus expanded to include graduation and getting them to college.

“Supporting this campaign is about embracing the continuum we’ve

Today, students from Holy Family and throughout the Greater Des

been on for some time with Dowling Catholic,” said Sharon. “However

Moines community continue to benefit from that work that began

the recent, critically-important focus on diversity, equity and inclusion

decades ago.

has reinforced to Kyle and me the important role Dowling Catholic plays in this regard. These are our Catholic values. We want to make

“The biggest affirmation is that our daughter is teaching in the Des

sure these values are perpetuated, not only in our faith community,

Moines Catholic school system,” said Sharon. “It’s a testament to the

but in our educational community. We see Dowling doing that in such

value of Catholic education. All five of our children attended Dowling;

a meaningful way which we are proud to support.”

their overall experience and the life-long friendships they have maintained are invaluable. As a couple, Kyle and I have very special

Supporting Catholic education is a longstanding tradition in the

Dowling Catholic friends as well, many of whom join us in proudly

Krause family which began with Kyle’s father, Bill, who was very

supporting Dowling Catholic.”

into intentional disciples who will keep the

life as the parents,” said Marilyn. “In addition

benefit from the same experiences their own

faith for the rest of their lives. This is done by

to Kairos, there are some excellent religion

children had, particularly when it comes to

supporting students in forming deep, personal

teachers at Dowling who had a big impact

faith development.

relationships with Christ through small group

on our kids. In terms of academics in general,

ministry and faith mentoring.

our own kids and many of their friends have

“Not everyone has the opportunity to have

mentioned that they felt so well prepared for

Catholicism as part of their education, which is

In addition to the benefits she also sees for

college because of the education they received

why we believe this initiative is so important,”

students participating in Ut Fidem, Marilyn

at Dowling. So many of them have remained

said Joe. “Supporting Dowling Catholic is a big

believes the retreat program at Dowling

strong in their faith and connected to one

part of how we can support students in their

Catholic is so impactful, noting that Kairos

another as well, with some of them now getting

faith development. If they end up straying from

in particular was really meaningful for their

together with their own kids. That Dowling tie is

their faith hopefully they will come back to it

youngest son.

so strong which is really great to see.”

because of the seeds that have been planted.

That is why we support Dowling Catholic

“When something impacts your child’s life in

They hope their support of Dowling Catholic

such a positive way, it does impact your own

will help provide opportunities for others to

through our trust and in our will.”

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notch, the facilities were beginning

“I also think what is so unique about

to look a little tired,” said Steve.

Dowling is the sense of community

“We wanted to ensure Dowling

and the emphasis placed on giving

was competitive and appealing to

back,” said Cathy. “These things

prospective families. From a business

have been so crucial in shaping our

perspective, I think it’s really critical to

children’s attitudes towards life and

have alternatives. Dowling is a college

their careers. They made good friends

prep alternative to the public school

at Dowling, they are generous people,

system and it has to be top-notch.

and they think about the bigger

All of that early work was done so

picture. I attribute that to Dowling.”

that when you walk through the front door the actual facility looks like the product it produces.”

Through her work with the board, Cathy learned where the shortcomings were and the importance of funding these areas. They worked to bring

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teacher salaries to a competitive level while remaining cognizant of

Advancing the mission of Dowling

keeping tuition affordable with limited

Catholic is something Steve and Cathy

assistance available at that time. They

Lacy have had a vested interest in

also focused on creating support of

for many years. Whether focused on

the mission among faculty and staff.

Unless you have students, parents and the whole institution working together, it’s really hard to make progress,” said Cathy.

“When this happens, as I know it does today at Dowling, it makes a difference.

creating opportunities for students, advocating for faculty and staff, or

“Unless you have students, parents

improving the facilities, their efforts

and the whole institution working

Their belief in the important work

have been instrumental in helping

together, it’s really hard to make

they see happening at DCHS and their

make Dowling Catholic what it is today.

progress,” said Cathy. “When this

long standing support of the mission

happens, as I know it does today at

ultimately led Steve and Cathy to serve

Dowling, it makes a difference.”

as co-chairs of the Legacy Campaign.

foundation and doing feasibility work

They’ve experienced this first hand

“When you look at the communities

as co-chair of the first phase of the

through their children, both of whom

that are suffering, the great equalizer

capital campaign,” said Steve. “We

are graduates.

is education,” said Steve. “If we give

“When Cathy was on the board of education, I was working with the

laugh about this today because I

students the tools, the connections

think we are probably the only couple

“Paul and Mary had very different

and the networks - they can achieve

where when she was president of the

but very successful experiences

success. I fundamentally believe that

board of education, I was president of

at Dowling that gave them solid

a student with a desire to attend

the foundation at the very same time.”

foundations to succeed in college

Dowling Catholic should not be turned

and ultimately, in successful business

away because of money. That is why

They saw tremendous opportunity

careers that followed,” said Steve. “The

we support the Legacy Campaign.”

for progress with the missions of the

values that are instilled at Dowling

boards so closely aligned.

and the high level of preparation gives students the confidence to go off and

“Although the education was top10

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

do great things.”

from the

associates who would then become

traditional

supporters,” said Hess. “He has

Board of

always been generous and treated

Education, the

people well. He is a relationship

Foundation

person and has always been really

Board was

interested in people. He knew his

established in

customers well and put his faith

1978 to focus

and trust in them. Many Catholic

on fundraising

institutions gravitated to West

and

Bank because of the way he treated

endowment

people. He and Joan have supported

management

many institutions in addition to

Dave Miller, retired chairman and

to support and advance the mission

Dowling. They have helped so

CEO of West Bank, and his wife Joan

of the school, a function which

many and have always been great

have a history with Dowling Catholic

continues to be essential to this

supporters who made a lot of things

dating back more than five decades.

day. According to Hess, Miller’s

happen in the community.”

Msgr. Michael Hess ‘63, alumnus and

involvement was key in recruiting

former DCHS president, recalls how

other community leaders to join him

While the impact the Millers have had

instrumental Miller was in helping

in establishing the board. Today, he

on Dowling Catholic is immeasurable,

to establish a system of providing

remains an honorary Foundation

Joan also notes the importance of

financial support to families long

Board member.

the school to their family.

before a tuition assistance program “Our children now have families

even existed at Dowling. Since that time, thanks to the generosity of benefactors like the Millers, the tuition assistance program has become central to the school’s mission.

“I joined the Dowling faculty when the co-ed school opened in 1972 and became president in 1976 at the age of 31,” said Hess. “Not long into my tenure, employment strikes were happening and many parents couldn’t pay tuition. I called Dave at West Bank and he helped me

Our children now have families of their own and are respected in their communities,” said Joan.

“They remain strong in their faith and moral character. I believe that the foundation established during their time at Dowling has been a big part of this.

of their own and are respected in their communities,” said Joan. “They remain strong in their faith and moral character. I believe that the foundation established during their time at Dowling has been a big part of this.”

The ongoing support provided by the Millers makes a tremendous difference for DCHS students today and will continue to impact generations of Maroons for decades to come.

establish a line of credit. Going forward, he helped with a lot of the financial planning for the school

Hess also credits Miller with putting

on top of the many other ways he

Dowing on the map as a reputable

contributed throughout the years to

non-profit to support, not just for

making Dowling what it is today.”

Catholics, but with members of the Greater Des Moines community.

Miller is also credited with helping to establish the Dowling St. Joseph

“Dave always promoted Dowling

Alumni Foundation Board. Different

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There is just something about Dowling Catholic and the people that lends itself to fostering something so special,” said Mary Beth. “We are one of 12 couples that I call my Dowling gang since we became friends while our kids were students.

They are truly lifelong friends.

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aspects were crucial in helping them achieve success.

The Craig family legacy at Dowling Catholic began in the 1940s when Gertrude “Trudy” (Condon) Craig ‘43 and her

Both of their children have returned to the Des Moines

two sisters attended St. Joseph Academy while her brother

Metro with their spouses and remain strongly connected

attended Dowling. That was the beginning of the Craig family’s

with the friends they made at DCHS. Those strong Dowling

longstanding history with the school that continues to this day.

ties have continued not only for their children, but also for Dr. Craig and Mary Beth whose closest friends today are the

Dr. Steve Craig, one of six children, attended St. Theresa

ones they met through their children at DCHS.

Catholic School and then Dowling. As a 1972 graduate, he was a member of the last class to graduate from the old Dowling

“There is just something about Dowling Catholic and the

before the new school merged with St. Joseph Academy and

people that lends itself to fostering something so special,”

opened at the current location on Buffalo Road.

said Mary Beth. “We are one of 12 couples that I call my Dowling gang since we became friends while our kids were

Following graduation, he experienced first-hand how well

students. They are truly lifelong friends.”

his Dowling education had prepared him for the future, not only with a foundation in faith, but also academically as he

Dr. Craig and Mary Beth have established the Craig Family

went on to the University of Iowa as a pre-med major before

Endowment in the hope of providing other families with

graduating from the University of Iowa College of Medicine.

the same opportunities. With three grandchildren who will someday be Maroons, they are committed to continuing the

He and his wife Mary Beth have also been pleased with

tradition of excellence for future generations to come.

the strong foundation for the future that Dowling Catholic provided for their children. Their daughter, Jennifer Myers

“We think it is so important that Catholic education

‘00, has excelled in a highly competitive field as she studied

continues to be accessible, regardless of background,”

chemical engineering at the University of Notre Dame and

said Dr. Craig. “As the only secondary Catholic school in

then biomedical engineering at the University of Minnesota.

the Des Moines area, we think it’s just as important that it

The same is true for their son, Jeff Craig ‘04, who earned

not be a school for the exclusive. We’d like to be a part of

his undergraduate degree at Marquette University before

attracting kids of all backgrounds and providing them with

graduating from the University of Iowa College of Law.

the opportunity to receive a Dowling Catholic education.

We chose to start an endowment in the hope that the Craig

Beyond the academic preparation, they also see tremendous

family and our friends will join us in making it possible for

value in the emphasis placed on serving others and the strong

everyone to attend Dowling Catholic.”

foundation in faith which continued throughout college and into adulthood for both of their children. They believe those 12

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

Catholic really helped instill in them that passion for their faith. The school offers something that is just so special, and it centers around the aspects of a Christ-centered education.”

Joe and Kara believe that foundation helped both of their daughters to remain strong in their faith throughout college. One attended a Catholic college and was involved in youth ministry. The other was at a liberal arts school and contacted a local parish to get involved in music ministry.

Emily is now teaching at St. Luke’s Catholic School in

P O L L P E T E R

Ankeny, a true testament to the value she sees in her own faith-based education.

Since his days as a student, alumnus Joe Pollpeter ‘80 has

“What our girls have experienced has just been so

remained strongly connected to Dowling Catholic and the

rewarding,” said Joe. “Becoming a part of this community

community. Among the many reasons he and his wife Kara

and the friendships we have all developed is something I

choose to give back to the school, creating opportunities

wish everyone could be a part of. Sending our girls here is

for others is at the forefront.

the best money we’ve ever spent. Once you become a part of this community, you will always be a Maroon.”

They were vested in giving back from the earliest days when their daughters, Emily ‘13 and Megan ‘16, became students at Dowling Catholic. Both have served extensively in a volunteer capacity, Kara having previously worked with the Parents’ Guild, Joe currently serving as the Board of Education president, and both spending countless hours volunteering at events and in other roles.

“What we’ve experienced in being a part of the Dowling Catholic community is just really hard to match,” said Joe. “As an alum and a parent, I have a longstanding relationship with Dowling. We have developed these lifelong friendships and benefited in so many ways from

What we’ve experienced in being a part of the Dowling Catholic community is just really hard to match,” said Joe. “As an alum and a parent, I have a longstanding relationship with Dowling. We have developed these lifelong friendships and benefited in so many ways from being involved.

being involved.”

Watching their daughters succeed in college and achieve

Joe and Kara are now looking to the future and how they

their goals has given them an even greater appreciation

can help carry on the tradition of excellence.

for the value of a faith-based education and the many ways they believe DCHS helped prepare them for life

“We want to set the stage for the next generation of

beyond high school.

students and to provide opportunities for other families,” said Joe. “We hope that in supporting the Legacy

“We continue to see the impact even today as they

Campaign, more students will have that opportunity. If we

have really succeeded at what they want to do,” said

can do our part to help the institution continue to thrive,

Kara. “They were so well prepared for college, not only

Kara and I are committed to helping. We really believe it is

academically, but also in terms of their faith. I believe

so important. Everyone can do something to help make a

that starts at home, but that their experiences at Dowling

difference, even if it’s only a small gift.”

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WELL DONE

COLOR GUARD EARNS HONORS AT STATE

DANCE TEAM COMPETES AT STATE

Dowling Catholic’s Color Guard concluded their season with an

The Dowling Catholic Dance Team had an excellent performance

outstanding second place finish at the Iowa State Dance Team

at the Iowa State Dance Team Association Championships held

Championships held at Wells Fargo Arena on November 19, 2020.

at Wells Fargo Arena and Hy-Vee Hall on November 19, 2020. The

Performances were recorded and reviewed by judges from all over

performances were evaluated virtually by judges from around the

the country, with the awards ceremony presented via live stream on

country with the awards presented via live stream on December 5,

December 5, 2020.

2020. Dowling Catholic finished second in lyrical and third in jazz.

Four guard members also competed in the solo competition held the

“Every year, the dancers come to morning practices ready to work.

same day at Hy-Vee Hall. Congratulations to Kaylee Marshall, Alex

This year was no exception,” said Taylor Schulte, head coach.

Roberson and team captain, Rosie Becicka, who were each awarded

“Through the challenges this year presented, the dancers fought even

Division I ratings.

harder to work together as a team and the hard work paid off at state.

While we knew the competition was going to be tough as we moved

Students in the Color Guard perform flag and dance choreography as

up a class, the girls performed better than we could have asked and

an auxiliary unit of the Vanguard. Students audition for membership in

we are incredibly proud of them.”

the spring and rehearse weekly during the summer. The season begins in August and runs through November. From November through

The following six dancers competed in the state solo contest the

February, Color Guard members are part of Winter Guard which

same day with each receiving a division I rating: Rachel Maucieri, Mia

performs at two competitions and at basketball games. We are proud

Catalano, Katie Cosgrove, Abby O’Hara, Charlotte James and Jolissa

of their hard work and all they have accomplished!

Thomas. Congratulations to all!

NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS Congratulations to seniors Emily Ball, Jude Rafael Borromeo and

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced the names

Aileen Nigg who have been named National Merit Semifinalists.

of approximately 16,000 semifinalists in the 66th annual scholarship

These students will now be considered for finalist standing with the

program in September. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents

opportunity to compete for approximately 7,600 scholarships worth

less than one percent of all high school seniors. To be considered for

more than $31 million dollars.

a National Merit Scholarship Award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition,

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ALL-STATE BAND & CHOIR Dowling Catholic High School is proud to announce that 17 students have been selected by the Iowa High School Music Association (IHSMA) for the All-State Band, Choir and Orchestra. These students represent the top high school musicians in the state as nearly 3,500 students at more than 260 schools participated in virtual auditions by region.

The following DCHS students were selected for the All-State Band & Orchestra: Jude Borromeo (trumpet), John Cahalan (trumpet alternate), Kate Cain (euphonium), Annamaria Dimon (violin alternate), Sam Hansen (bassoon), Lily Leyser (clarinet), Luke McIlhon (tenor sax), Emily Nguyen (clarinet) and Libbie Smith (flute).

Adowek Ajoung, Eva Kilbride, Alejandro Konrad, Katherine Kunz, Hannah Martin, Joe Miyazaki, Austin Riewer and Madi Bruck (soprano alternate) were selected for the All-State Choir.

The All-State Festival Concert which takes place in November each year was cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

PERFORMING ARTS GO VIRTUAL While the opportunities for students to take the stage looked different,

character as a young lady whose father has been murdered. Viewers

the Performing Arts Department was up for the challenge of figuring

witnessed her decision to seek revenge and the consequences of that

out how to safely perform during a pandemic. Not an easy task

choice. Second was “As You Like It,” in a condensed version of this

given the attendance model changes, social distancing requirements

tale of confused identities and the not so clear path of true love, set

and other challenges presented by Covid-19. In the end, with a lot

in the Forest of Arden.

of creativity and determination, the use of technology helped them successfully present two performances to the DCHS community.

The winter play, traditionally focused on children’s literature, is normally produced by acting students and presented live to the

For the fall play, Tim Sheaff ‘86, director of drama and debate,

community each December with a special matinee performance for

follows a rotation that includes the American Classics, Shakespeare

parochial school fourth graders. While teacher Emma Leary was able

and then something more lighthearted every third year. This year’s

to record some footage while students were in the building, they

selection posed an entirely different challenge, but he continued with

faced the same challenges as the fall play cast and crew with limited

his rotation and produced a “Zoom-ified” take on two Shakespeare

opportunities to rehearse and perform together. In the end, they

classics, performed virtually by students and presented via YouTube.

successfully produced “Twitch” by Stephen Gregg and “In the Garden of the Selfish Giant” by Sandra Fenichel Asher, presented virtually to

The first production was “Hamlet,” adapted to explore the main

the public for online viewing in early December.

including a strong academic record and SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier qualifying test scores. An essay and participation in leadership and extracurricular activities are also used in the judging process. Finalists will be notified in February and the 2021 National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced beginning in April.

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TRUE MAROON

ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME Dowling Catholic proudly bestows numerous

where she led the team in scoring all four

where he was a four-year letter winner and

awards on alumni of St. Joseph Academy

years. In career rankings she is fifth in

captain his senior year. He earned numerous

and DCHS, including selection to the Athletic

scoring with 1,857 points, third in free-throw

top finishes and was named Kansas Golf

Hall of Fame. Induction is merited by

percentage and first in blocked shots. She

Association Player of the Year. He turned

excellence in athletics, coaching or a related

received several Big East All-Conference post-

professional and played on several tours

area during high school and/or beyond.

season honors, including All-Big East First

before regaining amateur status in 2015.

Please join us in congratulating the 2020

Team selection twice, Big East All-Freshman

Athletic Hall of Fame inductees.

Team and All-Big East Second Team. She

DEWAYNE LONG JR.

was also named to the Big East All-Academic

‘00 was a four-sport

Team in 2017-2019.

athlete at DCHS. He

RYAN BOYLE ‘15 participated in football,

received all-state honors

basketball, soccer

ASHLEY FREERKSEN

and track. He was

‘03 was a four-year

a four-time letter

starter on the varsity

he helped his team to a varsity baseball state

winner who helped

basketball and softball

championship. In 2000, he was an Aquinas

teams. She received

Key recipient and again earned all-state

all-district and all-state

honors in baseball.

his teammates to two consecutive football state championships. A team captain, Ryan

in football and baseball in 1999, the same year

was twice recognized as Gatorade Player

honors all four years in both sports and was

of the Year and MVP of state championship

the all-time leading scorer in basketball

He received a full-ride scholarship to

games. He was an elite all-state team captain

when she graduated.

Nebraska where he was selected to the Big

and two-time first team all-state and all-

12 Commissioner’s honor roll and earned the

conference selection. He was named captain

She went on to play basketball at Northwest

athletic department’s honors medallion. He

and MVP of the Iowa Shrine Bowl and

Missouri State and then DMACC where she

transferred to Colgate University in New York

represented Team USA as a captain in the

earned All-American honors and led the

where he continued his football career and

International Bowl.

team in scoring and rebounding. She finished

interned at ESPN.

her basketball career at the University of Ryan received a football scholarship to the

Nebraska in Omaha where she was named

MATT MULVIHILL ‘93

University of Iowa and graduated in three

newcomer of the year.

was a wrestler and

years. He obtained a master’s degree at

football player at DCHS.

Indiana State where he was named Missouri

BEN JUFFER ‘09 was a

He was the starting

Valley Conference Newcomer of the Year

four-year letter winner

nose guard/linebacker

and earned several honors as QB and team

on the varsity golf team

on the 1992 team that

captain.

who earned individual

finished second at state football. In wrestling

all-state honors twice

he was on the varsity team and lettered all

and all-conference

four years under Coach Ron Gray. He finished

AUDREY FABER ‘15 participated in track

honors all four years. He qualified for

fourth individually at state wrestling in 1991

and basketball and was

numerous tournaments, including the 2008

and became a state champion in 1993. He

a three-time academic

U.S. Golf Association Junior Amateur and

and his teammates won three straight dual

all-conference selection.

received national honors which ranked him

state championships and placed second in

She was Gatorade Player

as one of the top 50 high school prospects.

1992. He went on to Iowa State University

of the Year, named to the all-tournament team

He was also named Iowa Junior Player of the

where he wrestled varsity all four years and

twice, was a three-time all state selection, and

Year by the PGA of Iowa.

in 1997 helped his team to a second place

a two-time MVP and CIML Player of the Year.

She went on to play basketball at Creighton 16

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

finish in the nation.

He attended KSU on a golf scholarship

IN MEMORIAM

TOM BARNABO

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

The Dowling Catholic community mourns the loss of Tom Barnabo, a longtime teacher

Daniel Mulvihill 1944 John “Jack” Donahue 1945

and coach who passed away on Saturday,

Sam Colacino 1947

November 7, 2020.

Dolores (Gambardella) McKinley 1947 SJA Donald “Don” Swift 1947 Agnita Teale 1947 SJA

He was born on October 26, 1963, in Beloit,

Frank Celsi 1948

Wisconsin, to Don and Arloa Barnabo. He

Robert “Pat” O’Brien 1949

was a 1982 graduate of Parker High School in Janesville, Wisconsin. A standout on the

Rita (McMurray) Reese 1949 SJA Frederick “Fred” Dowie 1950 Margaret Biegger 1951 SJA

football field, he earned all-state honors

Richard Schuster 1951

playing for his father in high school before

Samuel “Sam” Azzinaro 1952

attending Drake University on a full-ride football scholarship.

Anthony “Tony” (Fucalaro) Calaro 1952 Larry Scarpino 1952 Victor Sciachitano 1952 Thomas “Tom” Murphy 1953

After graduating from Drake in 1987, he began his teaching and coaching career which included stints in different states. He returned to Iowa and met his wife, Susan, while

Angleo Pascuzzi 1953 Donald “Don” Quinn 1953 Mary Ann (Doud) Bendernagel 1954 SJA

working at Simpson College. The two moved to Texas where he taught and coached

Frances (Mihalovich) Boggs 1955 SJA

football and their two sons, Cole and Dalton, were born.

John Cain 1955 Michael Carmody 1955

Coach Barnabo and his family returned to Iowa after he accepted an offer from

Lois (Daley) Coffey 1955 SJA Norman “Roy” Franceshine 1955

Dowling Catholic where he taught physical education and coached for the last 24

Joseph Garvey 1955

years. He was a defensive coordinator and linebackers coach for the football team that

Jack Oline 1955

won back-to-back state titles in 2000 and 2001. He most recently served as assistant coach for the boys track and field team. He was also a defensive line coach at Grand View University in Des Moines and an original member of the coaching staff since 2008.

John Todd 1955 Michael “Mike” Harden 1957 Larry “Scotty” Scott 1957 Sue (Hickey) DeWild 1960 SJA Janet Saluri 1960 SJA

Coach Barnabo was a beloved colleague and friend to many. He was known for his

Margaret (Grguric) Smolik 1960 SJA Samuel Soda 1960

friendly demeanor, positive attitude and his ability to connect and build relationships

Cecilia “CC” (Aeschliman) Blaskovich 1961 SJA

with others. He had a passion for teaching and coaching and would go above and

Kathleen “Kathy” (Dinsmore) Comito 1961 SJA

beyond to help his students and athletes succeed. Among his many accomplishments, he will be remembered as a leader and mentor who brought out the best in those

Michael Crawford 1961 Judy (Compiano) Davis-Smith 1961 SJA Grace Mauro 1961 SJA

around him, both on and off the field. His impact on the Dowling Catholic community is

James “Jim” Murphy 1961

immeasurable and he will be greatly missed.

Margaret Ann (King) Comito 1963 SJA

He is survived by his wife, Susan; sons Dalton (Karissa) and Cole (Linda) and

Patty Jo (Shinn) Davidson 1963 SJA Kathleen Lane 1963 SJA Patrick Ryan 1963

granddaughter Emma; his father, Don, and sister, Lana; and many beloved family

Larry DiPaglia 1966

members. He was preceded in death by his mother, Arola, sister, Dana, and brother,

Catherine “Cathy” Leo 1966 SJA

Dante. To read more about Coach Barnabo and to share memories and condolences with his family, please visit: https://legcy.co/3mVeIaF

Marsha (Macri) Stanton 1966 SJA Barry Mertes 1974 Rory Wadle 1975 Mary Quinn 1978 Rodney Hethershaw 1980 Michael “Mike” Hunter 1981 Brenda Chenchar 1983 Gary Kirke, Jr. 1990 Amy Hanrahan 1994 Jordan Pizinger 2008 F O CU S

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CLASS NOTES Elizabeth Tweedale ‘02, CEO and founder of Cypher, was recently featured in Harper’s Bazaar Magazine. Cypher is a company based in London which hosts creativecoding camps for children. Tweedale talks about her company and their quick pivot to doing business virtually in response to the pandemic. Read more: https://bit.ly/3fC3cyf Tanner Krause ‘05, former president of Kum & Go, has taken on a new leadership role as CEO of the company. Kum & Go announced in Becca Hittner ‘16 is playing basketball

December that Kyle Krause, chairman and CEO

professionally with C.B. Al-Qázeres in

of Kum & Go LC, would transition out of his role

Cáceres, Spain. Hittner announced her

as CEO of the company to be succeeded by

signing in August following a successful

his son effective January 1, 2021. Kyle remains

basketball career at Drake University.

in his role as CEO of Krause Group, the parent

Hittner ranked sixth in career points at

company of Kum & Go.

Drake and was recognized with numerous

Photo courtesy of Kum & Go

Missouri Valley Conference and national awards for her performance on the basketball court and in the classroom Let us - and your fellow alumni - know what

during her collegiate career.

you’re up to! To submit news and updates, Rico Gafford ‘14, DCHS alumnus and wide Howard Kerr ‘53 has been honored as

receiver for the Las Vegas Raiders, recently

a 2020 Hawkeye Distinguished Veteran

gave away 300 coats and 1,000 meals to

Award recipient. This award recognizes

people in the Drake neighborhood of Des

veterans of the armed forces for their

Moines. The event served as a kick off to

strong University of Iowa connection,

the start of the Gafford Foundation, an

military contributions and exceptional

organization dedicated to improving the

service to both the United States and

health and well-being of athletes and families

their communities. Kerr was a career naval

in the community through sports, counseling,

officer, serving for 21 years during the

education, support and advocacy. The event

Cold War and Vietnam eras as an aide to

took place at Rico’s at Drake, a restaurant

the 38th president of the United States.

owned by Gafford that opened in the spring

He has been honored with several awards

of 2020. Read more: https://bit.ly/3oosbs6

during his career, including the Legion of Merit Medal in an Oval Office ceremony

by President Ford. Kerr has also been previously recognized with a Distinguished Alumni Award from Dowling Catholic.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

please visit: dowlingcatholic.org/alumni-news

Dowling Catholic proudly honors deserving alumni of St. Joseph Academy and Dowling Catholic High School with Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Young Alumni awards. Recipients are recognized annually at the spring Scholastic Achievement Assembly where they each have an opportunity to address the student body.

Any member or friend of the Dowling Catholic/St. Joseph Academy community may nominate a graduate. The nomination deadline is February 15, 2020. Visit: dowlingcatholic.org/nominate-now

CALENDAR begin Tuesday, April 13 and will conclude

at cburchkirchhoff@dowlingcatholic.org

Saturday, April 17, 2021.

or call 515.222.1095 for more information.

If you would like to volunteer, please

Back by popular demand are the wine pull

contact Carolyn.

and restaurant row. New this year is the

> APRIL 13 - 17 Bash Online We invite you to join us for a virtual

Golden Ticket opportunity and the College

We will continue to adapt community

Sweatshirt Boutique. Raffle tickets will be

events due to Covid-19. Please visit

sold for all cash prizes! Be on the lookout

dowlingcatholic.org/events for the most

for how you can get yours beginning

up-to-date information. You can also

January 2021. Visit dowlingcatholic.org/

follow us on Facebook, Twitter and

bash2021 for more details and to purchase

Instagram to get the latest updates.

tickets for online bidding.

celebration to benefit the students of Dowling Catholic High School. The Bash

Interested in a corporate or individual

Online (formerly the Bash on Buffalo) will

sponsorship for the Bash? Contact Carolyn

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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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL