A PUBLICATION FOR THE DOWLING CATHOLIC COMMUNITY
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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. 10
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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.
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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. 16
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
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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.
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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