Focus Magazine XIV

A PUBLICATION FOR THE DOWLING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

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SUMMER 2021

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER Dear Friends,

I hope this letter finds you and your loved ones well. It is hard to believe that we have reached the end of the academic year. My thoughts and prayers have been with not only our students and staff, but also our families, alumni and friends as we have all tried to adjust to the world as we know it today.

As I look back on the past year I am grateful for the collaboration that took place. Our families have been supportive and served as great partners in the midst of facing their own challenges. The support we have received from the DCHS community has also made a tremendous difference and is greatly appreciated.

I am also thankful for the hard work and ingenuity from our faculty and staff which made it possible for us to offer in-person learning for the majority of the school year. They put our Safe in School plan into action and adapted to an entirely new way of teaching. This plan also required that our students adapt, and I know I speak for everyone at DCHS when I say how proud we are of the way they responded.

I would like to highlight the achievements of the Class of 2021 in particular. When faced with uncertainty, they joined together to demonstrate their strength and ability to overcome obstacles. Their leadership was outstanding and served as a great example to all of our students. They lived their faith by helping those less fortunate, collectively serving nearly 40,000 hours during their four years at DCHS. They excelled in academics and as a group were offered more than $11.2 million in scholarships to colleges across the nation. What they have been able to accomplish during these unprecedented times is simply incredible.

As the school year progressed it was wonderful to see some semblance of normalcy return as our faculty and staff found ways for students to safely participate in the activities they love. The spring musical and band and choir concerts were presented live for the first time in more than a year. Our student-athletes were able to participate in spring sports after their seasons were canceled last year. Juniors and seniors were able to attend prom, and the Class of 2021 was able to celebrate Baccalaureate Mass and walk across the stage to accept their diplomas.

I also want to thank Judy Chamat, Ron Gray, Jeff Morris and Tracy Sandbothe who retired at the end of the school year. Combined this dedicated group has given more than 120 years of service to the DCHS community.

We are grateful for their many contributions and wish them the best in their well-deserved retirements.

In closing, I would like to thank everyone who has journeyed through this last year with Dowling Catholic. I pray for your continued health and safety and hope to see you on campus or at one of our community events this fall.

With gratitude,

Dr. Dan Ryan President

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 The Dowling Catholic community celebrates the success of the Class of 2021.

PRESIDENT: Dr. Dan Ryan

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DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT: Julie Bell EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Tara Nelson

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

| ADVANCEMENT UPDATE

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Fulfilling the DCHS mission.

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| ON CAMPUS Check out the latest school happenings.

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

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| SPOTLIGHT DCHS recognizes retiring teachers.

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| TRUE MAROON Celebrating the 2021 DCHS Distinguished Alumni.

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

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

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COPY EDITORS: Rachel Brown Kathy Kirby Power ‘80 CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Earl Hulst

| THE PULSE DCHS recognizes year-end award recipients.

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ART DIRECTOR: Colin Gargano

| CALENDAR Find out about upcoming Dowling Catholic events.

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

ADVANCEMENT UPDATE Student Life: Through faith and academics, student activities, athletics and the arts, the Annual Appeal serves the interests of our students. With donor support we are able to grow existing opportunities and launch new initiatives to help students in their faith and academic pursuits.

Donors make a significant impact at Dowling Catholic High

School Services: The Annual Appeal supports every aspect of

School, providing crucial support to programs and resources that

the school’s daily operations. Dowling Catholic’s commitment to

truly benefit all students. Thanks to the generosity of those who

excellence extends to the building and grounds, technology and

contribute, we are able to fulfill our mission of preparing Leaders for

providing competitive teacher compensation.

Life, Centered on Christ. The impact of the We Are Maroons Annual Appeal is reflected in the following ways:

To donate, please visit: dowlingcatholic.org/annual-appeal. Find out if your company participates in a matching gift program by visiting:

Tuition: DCHS is committed to serving the Greater Des Moines

dowlingcatholic.org/matching-gifts. If eligible, request a matching

community and making a Catholic education accessible to all,

gift form from your employer and return to the Advancement Office

regardless of financial circumstances. Your gift to the Annual

with your gift. We’ll take care of the rest! The impact of your gift

Appeal ensures that every DCHS student receives a tuition

may be doubled or possibly tripled!

reduction or financial assistance.

THE BASH ONLINE The Bash on Buffalo, Dowling Catholic’s biggest annual fundraising event, was held virtually this year in support of DCHS students.

The “Bash Online” kicked off on April 13, 2021, with more than 230 bidders from across the country and as far away as Germany raising their virtual paddles.

The event included live and silent auctions, raffle drawings worth $10,000 in all-cash prizes, a wine pull, restaurant row and more.

Proceeds from the Bash will go towards fulfilling a variety of needs in the classroom and on campus, including the purchase of Chromebooks for DCHS students.

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Amy Harryman who served as the event chair; Katie Jensen and Barb Scholz, the

The success of this year’s event would not have been possible

silent auction co-chairs; and Lori Miller, Tiffan Yamen and Roxanne

without the support of local businesses and the tremendous

Lovan who chaired the wine pull, collection party and restaurant

contributions of our volunteers. We are immensely grateful for the

row committees. In addition, more than 50 DCHS faculty and staff

support of our presenting sponsor, Global Direct Mail & Marketing,

members made contributions of their time, talent and treasure to

as well as our Golden Ticket sponsor, Golden Rule Plumbing,

make the Bash Online an evening to remember and a great success

Heating & Cooling. The following businesses also provided generous

for our students.

sponsorship support: Bob Brown Chevrolet, Hummel’s Nissan, i2-Tech, Integrity Printing, Iowa Spring, Tom’s Auto Group, Wilson Toyota and

To learn more about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities at

Wolfe Eye Clinic.

DCHS, please visit: www.dowlingcatholic.org/events.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

of ways, ensuring all programs have

Family Package $600

uniforms and equipment, providing

Includes TWO adult memberships and

support to coaches, allowing us

TWO Future Maroon memberships

to maintain and upgrade athletic

beginning June 1, 2021. Each member

facilities, and more.

receives a one-time 15% discount at the Campus Store. Save $100 when

For more than 80 years, Dowling Club

Adult Membership - $250

members have been raising awareness,

Provides entry into all 2021-22 DCHS

enthusiasm, and funding for Maroons

home games beginning June 1, 2021.

*Memberships exclude admission to

in extracurricular activities.

Each member also receives a one-time

tournaments and district/regional

15% discount at the Campus Store.

events and are non-refundable.

offer a wide variety of interscholastic

Future Maroon Membership

To purchase your membership,

and intramural sports, providing

(K-8 students) - $100

please visit: dowlingcatholic.org/

students with the opportunity to learn

Provides entry into all 2021-22 DCHS

dowling-club or call Kathy Kirby

and grow at all levels. In addition,

home games beginning June 1, 2021.

Power ‘80 at 515.222.1002.

your support enhances our athletic

Each member also receives a one-time

programs tremendously in a number

15% discount at the Campus Store.

you purchase a family package!

Dowling Club support allows us to

GO MAROONS!

Consider naming DCHS as a beneficiary of an insurance policy you no longer need to support your spouse or family.

DONOR BENEFITS: ■ Easy to accomplish - Simple form is entirely separate from your will.

■ Potential for creating an impact far beyond what might be possible during your lifetime.

■ Flexible - You can name DCHS as a “full” or “partial” beneficiary and adjust your beneficiaries anytime you wish.

■ Will result in an estate tax charitable deduction for the death proceeds passing to DCHS. *For specific advice about the effect of any planning concept on your tax or financial situation or with your estate, please consult a qualified professional advisor.

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SPRING SPORTS With the statewide cancellation of spring sports last year, student-

The girls track team also had an outstanding season, finishing as

athletes were ready to return to competition, successfully completing a

district champions with several state qualifiers. Finishing in the

season filled with many highlights, state titles and new school records.

top five at the state meet were the sprint medley team of Forest Kuestner-Burleson, Shea Johnson, Olivia Kramer and Margaret Tobias who placed fifth and set a new school record; the 4x200 team of Julia Shonka, Shea Johnson, Olivia Kramer and Margaret Tobias with a fourth place finish; Esaba Okwaramoi who finished third in the 100M hurdles; and Emily Ball who finished third in discus. These were just a few of the highlights from a season in which every member contributed to the team’s success.

TENNIS The girls tennis

TRACK

team also made

The boys track and field team finished as co-conference and district

school history when

champions and made school history as runner-up in the Class 4A

they brought home

state track meet, the highest finish ever for the boys team at DCHS.

the Class 2A team championship state

Their success was a true team effort led by three individual state

title. Allison Szalay

champions. Mikey McClain finished as a two-time state champion in

won the individual girls state championship, Kenzie Klein and Ava

the 100M and 200M dash, Adam Wright won the 110M hurdles, and

Pedersen finished as runners-up in doubles, followed by Isa Valverde

Jackson Heidesch won the 3200. Additional top performers included

and Ella Spanovic who placed fifth.

Koah Thompson (third in the 110M hurdles); Will Ryan (third in the 3200 and fifth in the 1600); Adam Wright, Colin Clark, Will Bussey and

Daniel Lu finished the season as the Class 2A boys individual state

Koah Thompson (third in the shuttle hurdle relay); Louis Brooks, Mikey

champion. The boys team also had a successful season but lost 5-4

McClain, Jake Nevitt and Jalyn Thompson (third in the 4x200); and Cade

to Ames in the sub-state preliminary meet. In Class 2A Co-Ed state

Muller, Will Ryan, Gabe Shaw and Jackson Heidesch (fifth in the 4x800).

doubles, Daniel and Allison finished as runners-up.

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPEECH & DEBATE With a strong tradition of excellence in

through eighth grade are invited to join. A

DCHS did host four online tournaments with

speech and debate, Dowling Catholic

total of four tournaments are offered each

students participating from Holy Trinity, St.

provides upcoming students with the

year, with the first typically taking place in

Theresa, St. Joseph and St. Augustin.

opportunity to work on developing their

the winter and additional tournaments held

skills before they get to high school. For the

once a month through the spring.

last five years, DCHS has hosted parochial

“Providing an opportunity for our middle school students to practice using their

middle school tournaments, allowing

The program is run by Tim Sheaff ‘86,

voices to express important ideas is our

students to learn from high school mentors

Dowling Catholic’s director of drama and

number one goal,” said Sheaff. “Providing

and to compete in tournaments hosted at

debate for the last 24 years. DCHS students

them with a gateway to our nationally

the school.

judge the tournament rounds and serve

recognized high school program is also part

as mentors, traveling to parochial schools

of our purpose.”

Participation in the program is free and all

to provide coaching. While the pandemic

parochial middle school students in sixth

prevented that from happening this year,

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

Dowling Catholic’s history in speech and

LIVE THEATER RETURNS After the 2020 spring musical was cancelled and both the fall and winter plays were presented online, the Dowling Catholic Performing Arts Department presented Disney’s High School Musical for a live audience in late April, marking the first in-person performance to take place in the auditorium in more than a year.

Rehearsals began in January when the return of live theater seemed uncertain.

SOCCER The girls soccer team finished an outstanding regular season with a 15-3 record and defeated Iowa City West in the regional final to advance to state. The team

The students were hopeful, but up until just weeks before opening night were still prepared for the possibility of the musical being presented online. With masks required and distanced seating, it was a thrill for students to be back on stage for four live performances.

“Online performances gave students in the Performing Arts Department the chance

faced tough competition and fell to Ankeny

to continue to develop as artists, however they were so happy that we were able to

Centennial 2-1 in the quarterfinals.

have an audience,” said Tim Sheaff ‘86, director of drama and debate. “When they’re performing for people you have that dynamic between the performer and the viewer

The boys soccer team finished an excellent

which is lost when you do online performances.”

regular season with a 12-7 record in a class filled with strong competitors. The team fell to

A high school production is as much about the collaboration, commitment and hard

the Johnston Dragons 4-1 in the substate final.

work it takes to make it happen as it is about the show itself. During a pandemic school year this is more true than ever, which is why Sheaff selected a show that

GIRLS GOLF The girls golf team also completed a successful season with strong performances in the Valley Dual, Waukee Invitational, Southeast Polk Dual and the Southeast Polk Invitational.

would be fun and appealing to a variety of students. The smaller cast also made it a great choice with the ever-changing public health restrictions and the uncertainty presented by the virus.

In total, 45 students were part of the production as members of the cast, crew and pit. For sophomore Parker Ryther, being a part of the musical was especially meaningful after the challenging year experienced by everyone involved.

“Being a part of the musical is the one place I feel I fit in,” said Parker. “I’ve tried a lot of different things in my life, but the musical is truly something special because I felt welcomed from day one and have met some amazing people along the way. It’s been the experience of a lifetime.”

debate dates back to the 1960s when the program was founded by Fr. John Acrea.

Teams from DCHS have traditionally been competitive at the state, regional and national levels, with several students going on to successfully compete at the college level. Sheaff has been involved with the Iowa High School Speech Association for more than 20 years and is a member of the National Speech & Debate Association’s (NSDA) Hall of Fame.

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A YEAR OF CHALLENGE & G R OW T H With a year unlike any they have ever

four years at DCHS. When faced with

pandemic, students in grades nine

experienced, Dowling Catholic’s Class

disappointment over cancelled events

through 11 donated more than 17,000

of 2021 closed the final chapter on

and activities, they remained positive

hours to serving the community

their high school careers with some

and focused on their goals in the

during the 2020-2021 school year. In

semblance of normalcy as they walked

midst of uncertainty.

addition, they worked alongside the seniors and raised more than $60,000

across the stage to receive their diplomas. Despite the many challenges

“This class approached the challenges

for various causes, made and donated

they faced to get there, they had much

of the last 18 months as obstacles

more than 500 casseroles and

to be proud of as they celebrated this

rather than roadblocks,” said

hundreds of items to feed the hungry,

long-awaited milestone.

Matt Meendering, DCHS principal.

assembled more than 150 blessing

“Obstacles are things they can

bags to help the homeless, and served

The 2021 graduates served as

overcome, and these students

others in the community in countless

outstanding leaders and modeled

were not going to be stopped from

additional ways.

strength, determination and

achieving success. They demonstrated

commitment. They excelled in

leadership through their foundation

Students continued to work hard

academics and as a group were

of faith and the way they adapted to

and challenge themselves as they

offered more than $11.2 million in

a new method of learning, all of which

participated virtually in many

scholarships to colleges across the

will help them far beyond high school.”

academic clubs including Mock Trial, Speech and Debate, Odyssey of

nation. They led retreats, all-school prayer and lived their faith by serving

That determination to succeed was

the Mind, Academic Decathlon and

others, collectively donating nearly

also demonstrated by students

Science Bowl. As the school year

40,000 hours of service during their

across all grade levels. Although

progressed, additional opportunities

opportunities were limited by the

emerged for students to participate in

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

the arts, athletics and other activities.

For the first time in more than 15 months the spring musical and band and choir concerts took place in front of live audiences with social distancing and safety measures in place. The Art Club and other service and activity groups resumed meeting in person with safety protocols in place, and student-athletes were able to return to competition after entire seasons were cancelled or shortened last year.

As students adapted to their new daily routines, the pandemic also required that they adapt to new ways of practicing their faith. While those activities looked different, faculty

and staff found ways for students to

This class approached the challenges of the last 18 months as obstacles rather than roadblocks.

Obstacles are things they can overcome, and these students were not going to be stopped from achieving success.

Matt Meendering, Principal

continue to safely journey together as a community of faith. The daily tradition of school-wide prayer continued, all-school Mass was celebrated with modifications, and the opportunities for students to participate in retreats, adoration and reconciliation resumed.

For the Class of 2021, that faith journey that began more than four years ago at Freshman Mass came full circle as they gathered together in the same spot to celebrate Baccalaureate Mass. As members of Dowling Catholic’s alumni family, they will always be remembered for their strength, determination and perseverance.

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WELL DONE

SPEECH & DEBATE Fourteen DCHS students qualified to compete in the 2021 National Speech and Debate Association’s (NSDA) National Tournament held virtually June 14 - 18. Congratulations to Suzanne Bigelow, Violet Bordenaro, Collin Comito, Zach Harnden, Hannah Hayes, Reese

George Pierson, Gregory Salazar, Oliver Sheaff and Luojie Weng who

ODYSSEY OF THE MIND

competed in a variety of events ranging from speech and debate to

Odyssey of the Mind is a creative problem-solving program that engages

dramatic interpretation.

students in learning by allowing their knowledge and ideas to come to

Lovell, Jack McGuire, James Piazza, Ann Pierson, Christopher Pierson,

life. The program began in 1978 and has grown to include students from The pandemic created a very unique environment for students,

around the world, allowing them to learn and develop skills related to

requiring them to compete in tournaments virtually from their homes

teamwork, resource management, critical thinking, design and more.

with competitors and judges located in different states and time zones. Despite the challenges, DCHS students continued to improve

DCHS began participating in the program in 2018 led by English

throughout the year and had great success.

teacher Kate Leo. After last year’s season was cut short due to Covid-19, the students were excited to be able to compete in person

Some highlights include Zach Harnden and Christopher Pierson

in the state finals which took place at Iowa State University in April.

finishing as state champions in public forum in both the Iowa High

Each of the three teams from DCHS placed first in their division and

School Speech Association (IHSSA) and coaches league state

advanced to the World Finals where they competed virtually in May

tournaments and qualifying for nationals; the teams of Hannah

against approximately 55 other teams.

Hayes/Suzanne Bigelow and Collin Comito/Jack McGuire making DCHS history as the first freshman policy debaters to qualify for

Congratulations to the following DCHS students on their outstanding

nationals; and Violet Bordenaro, Reese Lovell and Elliott Sheaff

work: Katya Baneulos-Moriel, Rosie Becicka, Eleanor Bootman, Kylie

qualifying for the National Individual Events Tournament of

Camarata, Charlotte Chance, Molly Eure, Katie Flaherty, Lukas Franko,

Champions (NIETOC). In addition, George Pierson ‘21 and James

Jasper Grasmick, Courtney Haas, Hannah Harclerode, Will Jung, Eva

Piazza ‘21 advanced to the top 100 at nationals in Extemporaneous

Kilbride, Natalie Krejchi, Jake Leo, Janie McAllister, Ocean Oh, Betzy

Speaking. Congratulations to the entire team on an outstanding year.

Sandoval and Danielle Stacy.

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS Seniors Emily Ball, Jude Rafael Borromeo and Lele Nigg have been named finalists in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program. Nearly 1.5 million students entered the scholarship competition by taking the PSAT their junior year. The top scorers were named semifinalists and represent less than 1% of all high school seniors in the United States.

Approximately 15,000 of those students were selected as finalists based on academic record, participation in school and community activities, leadership abilities, honors and awards. Each finalist was also required to submit a personal essay and a recommendation from a high school official. Congratulations to these students on their outstanding achievements.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

NATIONAL COUNCIL ON YOUTH LEADERSHIP Nine Dowling Catholic students were selected to attend the National Council on Youth Leadership (NCYL), an exclusive leadership seminar held annually at Drake University. The mission of NCYL is to create public awareness of the importance and power of youth leadership, provide information to help build advanced leadership skills, and encourage

Congratulations to Crystal Castellano, Zach Harnden, Petra

community involvement in recognition and support of our youth.

Knupp, Ellen McDonough, Chris Pierson, Michael Posegate, David Roberts, Natalie Thomas and Becca Youngers who were selected

Approximately 250 students from area high schools are selected

to represent DCHS.

each year based on their leadership qualities and scholastic record.

CHOIR AWARDS

BAND AWARDS

The Jazz Choir, Concert Choir, A Cappella Choir and Dowling

The Dowling Catholic band program is proud to recognize

Catholic Singers had the opportunity to perform for a live audience

students for their achievements and contributions with awards

at St. Ambrose Cathedral in May, with the evening split into two

presented annually each spring. Congratulations to the following

concerts to accommodate capacity limits. The last in-person

2021 award recipients:

concert was also held at St. Ambrose in February of 2020. After nearly 15 months, it was a thrill for the choirs to return and perform for parents and families.

The concert also included the presentation of three special choral awards. The Douglas Schultz Memorial Award is presented each year to a member of the Concert Choir in recognition of outstanding service to the freshman chorus. This year there were two recipients, Liv Hall and Jake Leo.

Katherine Kunz received the Iowa Choral Director’s Outstanding Senior Award, presented to a student who has demonstrated outstanding musicianship and leadership in the choral art.

Senior Awards The John Philip Sousa Band Award – Jude Borromeo The Good Samaritan Award – Lauren Rotherham The Most Improved Senior Award – Quinn Barrett The Service and Commitment Award – Maya Freking The Mary Perlowski Spirit & Dedication Award - Rosie Becicka The Woody Herman Jazz Award – Sam Hansen The Louis Armstrong Jazz Award – Luke McIlhon The Quincy Jones Musicianship Award – Libbie Smith The Reubin Alcoy Memorial Award – Gabe Cook The Patrick S. Gilmore Band Award – Jordan Fortelka Freshman, Sophomore and Junior Awards The Sean Runyan Memorial Scholarship Award – Daniel Musel

The final award was the DCHS Choral Service Award, presented to a

The Michael Cargill Jazz Scholarship Award – Riley McElroy

senior who has demonstrated sincere service to the choral program

The Director’s Award for Band – John Cahalan (junior)

during their high school years. This year there were four recipients:

The Director’s Award for Band - Emily Nguyen (sophomore)

Adowek Ajoung, Lizzy Erickson, Nolan Kyhl and Ana Siebrecht.

The Director’s Award for Band - Jack Freking (freshman)

The concert concluded with special recognition of all the senior choir members. We are proud to recognize the award winners and every member of the choir for their dedication and commitment during a challenging year.

The awards were presented during the spring concert which was performed for a live audience limited to symphony band families.

They performed one piece, “The Parting Glass,” which portrays the idea of a farewell at the end of a gathering of friends, a fitting tribute to an outstanding group of seniors.

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FA R E W E L L With the end of the school year we

University. She also spent two years

alma mater. Gray left the state on

celebrated the incredible careers of four

working overseas with the Aramco

a wrestling scholarship to attend

outstanding educators who combined,

Oil Company located in Saudi Arabia.

Blackhawk Junior College in Moline

have more than a century of service at

This experience provided her with

and then Illinois State University. A

Dowling Catholic High School. We are

a very unique opportunity to teach

series of events led him back to Des

grateful to Judy Chamat, Ron Gray, Jeff

French and Spanish to students from

Moines and Drake University where he

Morris and Tracy Sandbothe for their

around the world whose parents’

returned to finish his degree.

many years of service and tremendous

work brought them to Saudi Arabia.

contributions.

It was while helping with the Drake She joined the DCHS faculty in

wrestling team that he ran into Darrah.

January of 1985 where she completed

When Darrah learned he was studying

the duration of her teaching career.

to become a teacher he invited him to help with the Dowling wrestling

J U DY C H A M AT Judy Chamat has retired after more than 35 years at Dowling Catholic.

As a longtime member of the World Languages Department, she taught Spanish and French as well as English and humanities during her tenure.

She also served as a moderator of the International Club and led the Walk for the Cure, an initiative established

“My 35 years at Dowling Catholic

team. Gray showed up at Dowling the

hold very special memories of people

following Monday for practice and

and events,” said Chamat. “Receiving

began a career that would span more

emails from former students and

than four decades.

teaching the children of former students has been heartwarming.

He did his student teaching at

I will miss the DCHS family. I am

Dowling and joined the social studies

grateful for the many blessings in

department following graduation.

my life that have come from DCHS.”

He was involved with the Dowling

In retirement she looks forward to

wrestling program for 29 years,

spending time with her family and

serving for 12 years as an assistant

hopes to stay connected with those in

coach with Darrah and then as head

the DCHS community.

coach when he retired. His teams achieved five state championships

in memory of a DCHS student to raise

and six dual state championships.

money for diabetes.

Gray was inducted into the Dowling Athletic Hall of Fame and the National

She began her teaching career

Wrestling Hall of Fame for his lifetime

after earning a bachelor’s degree

service to wrestling. He went on to

from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she majored in Spanish and French and minored in Italian. She

R O N G R AY

went on to earn a master’s degree in

Ron Gray ‘73 has retired after serving

Spanish from Drake University.

for 43 years as a faculty member in the Social Studies Department.

Prior to DCHS she taught in Nevada,

It was a chance encounter with his

Iowa, in the Des Moines and West Des

high school wrestling coach, Bob

Moines school districts, and at Drake

Darrah, that led him to return to his

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

coach boys and girls golf, leading the teams to nine state championships, and will continue to coach both teams in retirement.

“It has been a distinct honor and privilege to have the good fortune to be part of something very special, Dowling

Catholic High School, for 48 years (43

and had the pleasure of coaching

following time spent at home raising

years on staff, four as a student, and

with too many great people to name.

her children.

one year as a student teacher and

He also coached one year of varsity

volunteer coach),” said Gray. “I will miss

football under Matt Dillon, one year of

Sandbothe was involved with many

the daily interaction with the students

sophomore football with Larry Weier,

clubs during her tenure at Dowling

the most. I will also miss my colleagues

and spent 15 years with the girls track

Catholic. She served as the original

- past, present and those I had as

team coaching the throwers. He began

moderator of the Video Game Club

students. It has been a great ride!”

coaching boys golf five years ago and

and was also involved with the

will continue to coach in retirement.

Hyperstream Tech Club, sophomore Quest Retreat, SOS Club and

“It is difficult to put into words my

Christmas Baskets where she served

feelings concerning Dowling Catholic

as the committee chair.

High School,” said Morris. “It has been

JEFF MORRIS Jeff Morris ‘78 has retired after serving for 25 years in the Business Education Department. Morris graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1982 with a degree in accounting and worked for several years in the financial services industry. He went on

a big part of my life. I have met many

She has many fond memories of

great people who I have called my

teaching but notes that one of

friends. The students and staff here

her proudest accomplishments is

have been wonderful and have taught

serving as the co-moderator for the

me to be a better person. For that

Guatemala service trip which was

I am thankful. I will thoroughly miss

incredibly fulfilling for a number of

being part of the Dowling faculty.

reasons. She enjoyed watching the

They are the best! My only regret is

students experience another culture

that I have never won the raffle at the

and making a difference for a local

annual auction.”

family by building them a home.

to earn a master’s degree in education

“I will miss those experiences and

from Drake University and began his

my students and colleagues,” said

teaching career at Spalding Catholic

Sandbothe. “I feel honored and

High School. He returned to his alma

blessed to have worked with such an

mater to teach in 1996.

His many contributions at DCHS include the introduction of a financial

exceptional faculty and staff. Dowling

T R AC Y S A N D B OT H E

literacy class 23 years ago and the

Tracy Sandbothe has retired after

free income tax preparation he has

spending 18 years as a faculty member

offered through his accounting classes

in both the world languages and

for the last 24 years. He also served

business education departments.

as a Kairos leader and participated in

She began her career in the business

service trips to the Yucatan and Brazil.

sector after earning a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Iowa State

He began his coaching career in 1982

University and a master’s in teaching

with the Catholic Football League

from Drury University located in

(CFL). He joined Dowling Catholic’s

Springfield, Missouri. Her teaching

freshman football coaching staff in

career began at Dowling Catholic

Catholic is a special community, and I’m so lucky to have been a part of it.”

In retirement, she looks forward to spending time outdoors hiking, biking, gardening and kayaking. Her hope for her former students is that they will always remember to be kind and go out and explore the world.

1987 under head coach Bob Nizzi F O CU S

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Sister Sandra Rodemyer was born in La Crosse, Wisconsin, but raised in Des Moines, Iowa. She attended St. Augustin and St. Joseph Academy. Sr. Sandra went on to Clarke College in Dubuque for two years and then entered the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (the BVMs) in 1961. From Mount Carmel she was sent to Mundelein College in Chicago to finish her degree. She taught at St. Albert High School in Council Bluffs, Regina High School in Iowa City where she was also chair of the Social Studies Department, and Dowling for 18 years.

In 1995 following her retirement from teaching Each year Dowling Catholic proudly honors

skills coach for the University of Nebraska

she became the Food Pantry Director for the

deserving alumni of St. Joseph Academy and

athletic department. She also created and

Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC)

DCHS with the Distinguished Alumni and

implemented a city-wide life skills resiliency

Emergency Food Pantry. She was responsible

Distinguished Young Alumni Awards. We are

program for at-risk/incarcerated youth and

for ordering food for the 11 pantry sites and

honored to recognize Marthaellen Florence

teen mothers for a consortium of community

overseeing 50 volunteers. She retired from the

‘75, Sandra Rodemyer, BVM ‘59 and Meghan

centers which is still in use. She is also a

Food Pantry in 2007.

E. O’Neill ‘02 as our 2021 award recipients.

trained mediator and life coach.

Marthaellen Florence retired in 2019 from an

For more than 30 years she has served as

At Dowling she participated in the Teens

award-winning career in public broadcasting

a consultant for LeaderShape, Inc., co-

Encounter Christ (TEC) program for seniors.

(PBS) spanning more than 40 years. Ms.

facilitating workshops for university faculty

In 1992 she joined the Residents Encounter

Florence is a graduate of the University of

members and future leaders selected

Christ (REC) prison retreat program at the

Nebraska-Lincoln and holds a bachelor’s

through college honors programs.

women’s prison in Mitchellville. She worked

Sr. Sandra served on two retreat programs.

degree in broadcast journalism.

on 32 retreats and volunteered in the prison’s She strongly believes in servant leadership

Religious Library. She retired from prison

She currently serves as a faculty

and takes great pride in her community

ministry in 2018 after volunteering for 23 years.

member with the Center for Leadership

involvement. She feels it is important to give

Sr. Sandra served on the Catholic Peace

Development (CLD), an agency under the

back and has served in numerous leadership

Ministry board and the Holy Trinity Peace

federal government’s Office of Personnel

roles on local, regional and national boards.

and Justice Committee. She served on the

Management which offers education

Holy Trinity Stephen Minister team where she

programs across the U.S. and the world. She

She has been recognized with many awards,

served as a trainer for new Stephen Ministers.

also serves as faculty chair for the agency’s

including the Lincoln Mayor’s Heart of the Arts

She was a member of the Des Moines Sisters’

diversity, equity and inclusion initiative

and NAACP Leola Bullock Community Service

Council for over 40 years, often serving in

working with the Office of Personnel

awards. She was a YWCA Woman of the Year-

leadership positions. She currently serves on

Management and the U.S. White House on

Tribute to Women honoree, named one of

the BVM Ministry Grant Committee which

aligning the recent presidential executive

Leadership Lincoln’s Community Co-Creators

awards grants to organizations serving the

orders on racial equity.

and inducted into the University of Nebraska

needs of women and children.

Multicultural Hall of Fame. She is extremely Ms. Florence has a strong leadership

honored and humbled to be recognized with

In 2007 Sr. Sandra received the Governor’s

background. She began honing her

the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Volunteer Award for her prison volunteer

leadership skills in the mid-90s as a life 14

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

work, and in 2008 she received the Des

Moines Register’s STAR Award for service

pediatric residency at Northwestern

children. She also specializes in the care

to the community.

McGaw - Lurie Children’s Hospital in

of children with autism, developmental

Chicago before returning to Baltimore to

delays, intellectual disability, ADHD, learning

Dr. Meghan O’Neill lettered in basketball,

complete a residency-fellowship program

disabilities, cerebral palsy and complex

track, cross country and softball at Dowling

in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at Johns

neurogenetic syndromes. She leads the

and was active in Special Olympics. She was

Hopkins and the Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Northwestern developmental pediatrics

class valedictorian and went on to attend the

clinical rotation and has been involved in

University of Notre Dame where she double-

Dr. O’Neill currently resides in Chicago

educating hundreds of fellows, residents

majored in science pre-professional studies

with her husband, Nick Guzmán, and their

and medical students. She is involved in

and psychology. She graduated Magna Cum

three children. She works as an attending

numerous Down syndrome-related research

Laude and was inducted into the Phi Beta

physician in Developmental-Behavioral

projects and national workgroups, has

Kappa Academic Honor Society, the Alpha

Pediatrics and Child Neurology at Lurie

authored several articles and medical

Epsilon Delta Pre-Medical Honor Society,

Children’s Hospital. She is an assistant

textbook chapters, and has given talks

and was awarded the Patrick J. Niland, MD

professor of pediatrics at the Northwestern

nationwide. She was selected to the

Award, recognizing excellence in academics,

Feinberg School of Medicine and is certified

American Academy of Neurology Palatucci

service and integrity.

in General Pediatrics, Neurology with

Advocacy Leadership Forum given her

Special Qualification in Child Neurology, and

interest in disability-related advocacy issues.

She attended the Johns Hopkins School of

Neurodevelopmental Disabilities.

Medicine in Baltimore and was inducted into

To view a complete list of Distinguished

the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical

Dr. O’Neill established the Lurie Children’s

Alumni Award recipients, please visit:

Society, graduating in the top 10th percentile

Down Syndrome clinic which has been

www.dowlingcatholic.org/distinguished-alumni

of her class. She completed a three-year

responsible for the care of hundreds of

FATHER HESS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF PRIESTHOOD Congratulations

Dingman and served at St. Michael Parish

to Dowling Catholic with the

to Father Michael

in Harlan, Iowa, and then at St. Ambrose

Distinguished Alumni Award as well as

Hess who

in Des Moines. He joined the Dowling

the CIVITAS Award, the highest honor

celebrated the

faculty when the new school opened

bestowed by the school. In addition,

50th anniversary

in 1972 after it merged with St. Joseph

the south wing of DCHS is named the

of his priestly

Academy. He served as president of

Father Michael N. Hess Convocation

ordination on

Dowling from 1976 to 2000.

Center in recognition of his long-

May 29, 2021.

standing support.

His many significant contributions include

Father Hess graduated from Dowling

the establishment of Dowling’s Foundation

Following his tenure at Dowling, Father

High School in 1963. He went on to

Board in 1978. Different from the Board

Hess served for 15 years as pastor of

attend Immaculate Conception Seminary

of Education, the Foundation Board

Sacred Heart Catholic Church in West

in Conception, Missouri; Loras College

was created to focus on fundraising and

Des Moines before his retirement in

in Dubuque; the Aquinas Institute of

endowment management to support

2015. He continues to serve as chaplain

Theology in Dubuque; Notre Dame

the school’s mission, a function which

for the West Des Moines Police, Fire

Seminary in New Orleans; and Catholic

continues to be essential to this day.

and EMS departments and on the

University in Washington, D.C.

weekends at Our Lady’s Immaculate Father Hess has previously been

He was ordained by Bishop Maurice

Heart Parish in Ankeny.

recognized for his outstanding service F O CU S

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CLASS NOTES After nine seasons at Drake University, Jennie Baranczyk ‘00 has been named head women’s basketball coach for the University of Oklahoma. Baranczyk held a 192-96 record at Drake and led the Bulldogs to six consecutive 20-win seasons and three NCAA tournament berths. She is also a two-time Missouri Valley Conference Coach of the Year and has a winning percentage that ranks fifth in the league’s history.

Caitlin Clark ‘20, a sophomore point guard for the University of Iowa, has been selected to the 2021 USA Women’s U19 World Cup After a one-year hiatus due to Covid-19, the annual Dowling coaches/Athletic Department breakfast resumed in May. This tradition was started in 2010 by Del Lark, longtime DCHS athletic trainer, and Ron Gray ‘73, former wrestling coach/current golf coach and retired social studies teacher.

In addition to Lark and Gray who are both members of the DCHS Athletic Hall of Fame, several in attendance are also inductees, including Mike Skoglund (former wrestling/football coach), John LaBonia ‘58 (former boys basketball coach), Frank Schweizer (former cross country coach), Pat Civitate (athletic office assistant from 1968-1988), Mark Amadeo ‘80 (DCHS sports broadcaster), Don Mauro ‘49 and Mark Crouch (former swim coach). Also attending were Dave Marcouiller ‘71 (former coach/DCHS assistant principal), Mr. Joe Cordaro ‘67 (former coach/St. Anthony’s principal) and Fr. John Dorton ‘62. Missing this year were Bob and Sharon Hanson, Jim Williams, Bob Nizzi ‘58, Tom Stokesbary, Mary Pick and Larry Chichelli ‘58, all a part of this outstanding group of individuals who have had such an impact on the great tradition of DCHS athletics.

Congratulations to the following alumni who have been called to discern priesthood: Nick Smith ‘14 who was ordained a transitional deacon on June 11, 2021, at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines; deacons Max Carson ‘12, Reed Flood ‘13, Brad Robey ‘13 and Nick Stark ‘13 who were ordained to the priesthood on June 25, 2021, at Our Lady of Immaculate Heart in Ankeny; and Alex Kramer ‘14 who will be ordained as a transitional decaon at the Pontifical North American College in Vatican City this fall. Vist the Diocese of Des Moines website to learn more: www.vocationsonline.org

ChildServe has earned a national Top Workplaces Women-Led Culture of Excellence Award under the leadership of Dr. Teri Wahlig ‘79, who serves as CEO. The award is an extension of the Iowa Top Workplaces competition held by the Des Moines Register and recognizes workplaces that are led by women who believe in the power of putting people first. Dr. Wahlig also serves as a member of the DCHS Foundation Board.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

Team. Clark is a two-time gold medalist as a member of Team USA which won the 2017 U16 FIBA Americas Tournament and 2019 U19 FIBA World Cup Tournament.

Congratulations to Kenia Calderon Ceron ‘13, Jen Cross ‘07, Colleen R. MacRae ‘03 and Kendra Marshall ‘04 who were named to the Des Moines Business Record’s list of Forty Under 40 honorees for 2021. The honorees were featured in the April 2, 2021, edition of the Business Record and recognized at a virtual event. Read more about each of the honorees online: https://bit.ly/31T1jaz

Dowling Catholic proudly honors deserving St. Joseph Academy/DCHS alumni with Athletic Hall of Fame, Distinguished Alumni/Young Alumni and Performing Arts Hall of Fame awards. To learn more and submit a nomination, please visit: www.dowlingcatholic.org/nominate-now

To update your information or share alumni news, please visit: www.dowlingcatholic.org/alumni

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

Floyd Sayles ‘42 Mary Margaret (Hanley) Hayes ‘44 Richard Pertzborn ‘45 Evelyn (Fortino) Bisanti ‘47 SJA Gertrude “Trudy” (Kuntz) Hause ‘47 SJA Anne Marie (Leo) McNeer ‘47 SJA Nicholas “Nick” Romano ‘47 Josephine (Romare) Walsh ‘47 SJA John “Jack” Byrnes ‘48 Edward J. Byrnes ‘49 Sr. Joanne Simonini, BVM ‘49 SJA Marilyn (Mahedy) Aldrich ‘50 SJA Sharon (Lind) Draper ‘50 SJA Richard “Dick” Heger ‘50 Lucretia Funaro ‘51 SJA Victor Zanona ‘51 John “Pete” Leopold ‘52 David Borgen ‘53 Rose Mary (Cianciarusco) Egan ‘53 SJA Angelo Bianchi ‘54 Leonard Bishop ‘54 Mary (Swope) Anderson ‘55 SJA Raymond Leto ‘55 Judy (Burns) Querrey ‘55 SJA Sandra (Hollingsworth) Richman ‘56 SJA Dr. John E. McCarthy ‘57 Gary Fatino ‘58 Robert E. Piziali ‘59 Paul Stenger ‘59 Sean Barrettsmith ‘61 Anne (McGarvey) Broderick ‘61 SJA Jeanne (Yochum) Kinsella ‘61 SJA Sue (Crowley) Norris ‘61 SJA Vince DeAngelis ‘62 Robert Alwell ‘63 Fred Coffin ‘65 Nickolas Heleg-Greza ‘65 Pam (Stokesbary) Hillabolt ‘65 SJA Judy (Ritchie) McNerney ‘65 SJA Robert Payton ‘65 Ron Johnston ‘66 Harry Perkins ‘66 Linda (Ligouri) Tessau ‘66 SJA Larry Dorsey ‘67 David Stout ‘67 Timothy “Tim” Ferin ‘68 Rick Kotz ‘69 Rebecca Burrows ‘71 SJA Debra (Ross) Downing ‘71 SJA Tom Lyons ‘72 Bruce McCauley ‘75 Julie (Gibbons) Grask ‘76 Scott Meyer ‘77 Bob Belmonte ‘79 James Lapcheske ‘79 Paul Glaser ‘82 Teresa (Breheny) Kordick ‘82 Hope (Bintner) Spuzello ‘85 James “Jamie” Kuehl ‘87 Mark Rivituso ‘88 Angela Hughes ‘91 Jammie Carroll ‘92 Ryan Gray ‘98 Darryl Hunter ‘03 Jonathan Dassinger ‘13

JOYCE STASI The Dowling Catholic community mourns the loss of Joyce Stasi, a longtime teacher at DCHS, who passed away on February 25, 2021.

Joyce was born December 21, 1951, in Des Moines, IA, to Joseph Daniel and Frances Elizabeth (Fleming) Nash. She attended Lincoln High School and Drake University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and a master’s in education. She completed her student teaching at Dowling and was hired following graduation. In 1978 she married John Stasi and they spent 15 years together before his passing in 1993.

Joyce impacted so many during the 43 years she spent teaching at DCHS before her retirement in 2017. She was a talented artist and took great joy in introducing her students to a variety of disciplines, teaching courses in photography, art & design, and metals.

Her impact at DCHS extended far beyond the classroom. In addition to being an outstanding educator in the Visual Arts Department, she was very involved with student activities, serving as co-director for many years, as junior and senior class moderator, student council moderator, and helped with Christmas Baskets. She touched many generations of families and made a difference in the lives of so many.

Joyce is remembered by her colleagues for her warmth and kindness, her sense of humor and her quick wit. She is remembered fondly and greatly missed by all who were privileged to know her. To read more about Joyce, please visit: https://bit.ly/3bGzh7n

BOB TRUSTY Bob Trusty, a longtime teacher and coach at Dowling Catholic, passed away on April 7, 2021. Bob was born August 22, 1941, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. He graduated from St. Edmond Catholic School in Fort Dodge and attended college at St. Ambrose University in Davenport. He received his master’s in education at Drake University in Des Moines.

Bob dedicated his entire 55-year career to Dowling Catholic before his retirement in 2018. He began teaching in 1963 at the old Dowling High School where he served as a math teacher and also coached swimming and track. He went on to teach programming when computer classes were first offered at DCHS and eventually served as the network administrator for the school. Although this role took him away from the classroom, he continued to share his knowledge with the many students who served as helpers in the technology department throughout the years. In addition to his tremendous contributions in the classroom and in athletics, he also made a difference in the lives of many students through his involvement with Kairos.

Bob was a trusted colleague and a dear friend who impacted the lives of so many. He will be greatly missed. To read more, please visit: https://bit.ly/3wpIyIH

F O CU S

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AWARDING EXCELLENCE Each spring Dowling Catholic proudly

FATHER JOHN ACREA AWARD

have respect for fellow human beings as

recognizes students with year-end awards.

Oliver Sheaff

demonstrated through Christian service; and

Congratulations to the following 2021

Presented to students who have shown

inspire others through words and actions to

award recipients:

commitment, dedication and determination

live a Christ-centered life. The recipient is

in debate. Father Acrea founded the debate

selected by the senior class and delivers the

AMERICAN CITIZENSHIP AWARD

team in 1963 and impacted an entire

commencement address.

Michael Wunn

generation of DCHS debaters.

SCHOLAR ATHLETES OF THE YEAR

Recognizes seniors who demonstrate good citizenship, a sense of responsibility and

JACK WAHLIG AWARD

Anna Flynn & Max Brown

service to the community.

Olivia Hall, Averi Langin, Emlda Tombe

Two seniors are selected by the Athletic

& Andrew McDonough

Department for achieving outstanding

BERNIE SAGGAU AWARD

Honors a retired accountant and parent of

success in academics and athletics.

Kelsey Hoey

DCHS alumni who expected his children to

Presented to the senior who best

be involved in school activities, strive for

SISTER CLEMENZA COMMUNITY

exemplifies a patriotic spirit with strong

excellence, exhibit leadership and care for

SERVICE AWARD

religious and moral convictions; living and

others. The award recognizes freshmen who

Cece Villa & Jackson Langin

professing the qualities of honesty, integrity

excel in these areas.

Honors seniors who have excelled in the

and sportsmanship; and believing that

spirit of Christian service. Sr. Clemenza, a

games and life should be conducted by the

JOHN HAYES AWARD

former DCHS counselor, was known as the

rules. Mr. Saggau was Executive Director of

Allison Szalay & Will Ryan

“go-to person” to get things done. This

the IHSAA for 38 years.

Selected by the athletic department,

award is not based on the number of service

these students exhibit strong leadership

hours, but on the ways the student has

DCHS SPIRIT AWARD

and dedication to activities, athletics and

served the people of God.

Maya Freking & Antonio Banuelos-Moriel

academics; demonstrate commitment

Presented to students who model integrity

to hard work; live a faith-life modeled in

ST. MARTIN DE PORRES AWARD

and moral character. Their positive spirit

service; and exude a caring and supportive

Armando Aguilar-Jaime & Anyiel Akec

and sharing of time and talents are true

attitude. Mr. Hayes was athletic director at

This new award is intended to support junior

examples of Christ-centered leadership.

DCHS from 1977 - 2005.

students involved in activities that advocate

Faculty selects seniors who best represent the spirit of DCHS.

for racial and social justice, both at DCHS

JUDITH SHEAHAN AWARD

and in the community. Each year one male

Jazlynn Paz, Nicole Pedersen, Sally

and one female recipient will receive this

DR. ROBERT BREEDLOVE AWARD

Wuest & Ataya Wurju

award based on an application submitted

Calliope Coppola & David Roberts

Sr. Judith Sheahan was an assistant principal

outlining their activism in this area.

Recognizes juniors who best model

at DCHS. She was a service-oriented leader

hard work, leadership and courage while

who was meticulous with her organizational

VONNIE HESS AWARD

exemplifying the Christian principles

skills. The Maroon Council awards two

Colleen Cain & Riley McElroy

valued by Dr. Bob Breedlove, the father of

sophomores who reflect the qualities of

This memorial tuition award was created in

several DCHS graduates and athletic team

great leadership and selfless service.

honor of the caring mother of former DCHS

doctor for many years. He was known for

president, Fr. Michael Hess. Recipients are

his generosity as demonstrated through

PAX CHRISTI AWARD

selected based on participation in activities

the countless hours of medical and

Elizabeth Erickson

that fulfill Dowling Catholic’s mission

personal support he provided to DCHS

This Pax Christi student is committed to

of community involvement, achieving

athletes and coaches.

Christian faith and service and actively

above average grades, and involvement in

participates in the life and spirit of DCHS.

extracurricular activities.

They exemplify Christ-centered leadership; 18

D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL

FACULTY & STAFF AWARDS Each spring Dowling Catholic recognizes faculty and staff with two special awards.

Named for our founder, the Bishop Dowling

CALENDAR > AUGUST 2 Dowling Catholic Golf Outing

and dedicated - in remarkable ways. This

Echo Valley Country Club 3150 Echo Valley Drive Norwalk

year we are pleased to honor Jessie Smith,

Each summer our community comes

Ron Gray, Austin Hall and Kelly Parriott as

together for a fun day of golf to

recipients of the Bishop Dowling Award.

raise money for the Coppola Family

Award is given to four faculty or staff members who exemplify our core values - faithful, caring

Endowment. This fund was initiated in the early 1970s and continues to provide tuition assistance to DCHS students. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Carolyn Burch Kirchhoff at

Members of the DCHS community are invited to celebrate Dowling Catholic’s Homecoming. Join us at Valley Stadium to cheer on the Maroons at the varsity football game.

The Homecoming Court and Hall of Fame inductees will be introduced at half-time.

or 515.222.1095.

Pancake Breakfast

> OCTOBER 5

Iowa State Fairgrounds 3000 East Grand Avenue Des Moines

This annual recognition dinner is a special event honoring those individuals who support Dowling Catholic with

This year marks the 60th anniversary of this great DCHS tradition which brings the community together and raises money to support students and teachers in fulfilling classroom needs.

was initiated by

gifts of cash or stock totaling $2,000 or

> DECEMBER 2

Joe Brick and his

more annually (fiscal year July 1, 2020 -

Christmas Luncheon

family in 2014 in

June 30, 2021).

honor of Janet Brick who passed

> OCTOBER 7

away in 2011. Each

Grandparents’ Day

year the Brick family chooses a faculty member who represents the qualities of Janet and the philosophy of de La Salle: to work in a way that makes a difference by touching the hearts of students. We are proud to recognize Lance Shay as the recipient of the John Baptiste de La Salle Award. Congratulations to this year’s award recipients. We are grateful for their exceptional contributions to the mission of Dowling Catholic.

Valley Stadium 4440 Mills Civic Parkway West Des Moines

> OCTOBER 24

Des Moines Golf & Country Club 1600 Jordan Creek Parkway West Des Moines

de La Salle Award

Homecoming, Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

cburchkirchhoff@dowlingcatholic.org

President’s Council Dinner

The John Baptiste

> SEPTEMBER 24

Dowling Catholic High School 1400 Buffalo Road West Des Moines Grandparents are the guests of honor during this annual celebration. Each year our special guests have the opportunity to visit campus and enjoy refreshments, hear from student and faculty speakers, and celebrate Mass

Glen Oaks Country Club 1401 Glen Oaks Drive West Des Moines DCHS parents, alumni and friends are invited to celebrate the start of the Christmas season with a wonderful lunch, special guest speakers and entertainment provided by student musicians and vocalists.

For the most current event information, please visit www. dowlingcatholic.org/events.

with their grandchildren.

F O CU S

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SUMMER 2021

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NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT NO. 1170 DES MOINES, IA

$65 Champion Men’s Puffer Vest

$60 Champion Women’s Puffer Vest

24/7/365 online!

dchscampusstore.com Campus Store: 515-222-1012 campusstore@dowlingcatholic.org $55 Champion Women’s Super Fan Cowl

$26 Nike Swoosh Flex Ball Cap

$28 Nike Unisex Cuffed Beanie

$35 Nike Youth Fly Short 2.0

$52 Under Armour Men’s Gameday Waffle Crew

$60 Port Authority Women’s Cozy 1/4 Zip

SAVE 15% ON YOUR NEXT PURCHASE Please present this coupon or use code SUMMER21 online Some exclusions apply. Uniforms, special order uniforms, club/activity apparel, Spirit Signs, and Spirit Sign riders are not included in this offer. Offer cannot be applied to previous purchases. Coupon expires September 15, 2021.

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D O WLIN G CATH OLIC H IGH SC HOOL