Dear Members of the Elder Family,
The 2023-2024 school year has wrapped up, and what a year it has been! We saw success across the board—in academics, athletics, and the arts. Our 2024 graduates, Elder’s 102nd class, are now proud alumni, joining a network of over 23,100 fellow Panthers. As they embark on the next phase of their lives, we wish them all the best. These talented graduates have been offered an astounding 751 college scholarships, collectively valued at over $28 million. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off.
This year, we also bid a heartfelt farewell to two of our esteemed teachers, Mr. Mark Groszek and Mrs. Mary Ann Schuerman. With over 75 years of combined teaching experience, their contributions to our classrooms and students have been invaluable. We are deeply grateful for their years of service to Catholic education and the lasting impact they’ve made on our community.
As summer arrives, our campus remains a hub of activity. Many of our students and future Panthers will be here, participating in a variety of academic and athletic camps. It's always wonderful to see the energy and enthusiasm of these young learners.
Meanwhile, we continue to enhance Elder’s historic campus and facilities. The sounds of construction will be a familiar backdrop as we replace the classroom and hallway flooring in the 1922 building, install new 75” interactive wall monitors in 45 classrooms, and upgrade our building access system. These improvements are part of our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible educational environment for our students and faculty.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the Elder Family. Thank you for your unwavering support of Elder and your belief in our mission“to develop young men to strive for Altiora by serving God and others, embracing and living the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, while pursuing academic excellence.”
God bless and Altiora!
Kurt Ruffing ’81 Principal/CEO
BY CHUCK KNEPFLE
Mary SchuermanAnn
BY RICK CEDDIA
Congratulations Mark Groszek
Caden Fletcher Ammon *
Hunter J. Auel *
George Larrick Aug *
Charles Douglas Baker
Andy Bamaca Hernandez *
Andrew James Bass *
Brayden Michael Bass *
Tyler Daniel Beckenhaupt *
Frank Donald Becker *
Aden Howard Beckman *
Carson Joseph Behrendt *
Dave M. Bernardo-Morales
Kenneth G. Bier *
Tyler Edwin Biggs *
Connor J. Bill +*
Andrew James Bode
Andrew Jason Bovard *
Ryan Michael Brass *
Maxwell William Braun
Thomas Richard Breitfelder
John William Brennan *
Benjamin Brinker
Daniel Christopher Brogan
Michael Brian Brogan +*
Jacob Robert Brossart *
Brayden James Burriss
William Joseph Callahan
Alex John Caminiti *
Jared Walter Cappel
Cohen James Casey *
Brandon Tyler Catanzaro *
Christian Lee Connor Cecil
Salvatore James Cira *
Keith Eric Clark *
Noah Anthony Collins *
Corbin Maddux Cooper *
Cody Michael Corbett
Phillip Brent Corcoran *
Andrew Michael Costa *
Brayden Alan Curlis *
Andy Dang
Jackson Charles Davis +*
Jacob Michael Doyle *
Joshua Michael Dugan *
Jacob Charles Robert Eddingfield *
Nathaniel Jacob Ehling *
Connor James Eichhorn
Colin James Espelage +*
Tyler Esterkamp
Hayden Ryan Ewald
Cody Nicholas Faeth +*
Caden McCarthy Finley +*
Stephen Florian
Luke Edward Fortkamp *
John Conner Panaro Fox *
Ethan Thomas Galbreath *
Tyler James Garrison
Antonio Vincent Giglio *
Colton David Ginn *
Class of 2024
Scholarships were earned by our graduates at 91 institutions of higher education. There have been 213 awards accepted so far with a total value of more than 6.2 million dollars.
In addition, the members of Elder’s Class of 2024 were offered more than 538 other scholarships for a total of 751 scholarships valued at more than 28.3 million dollars.
Gerry McDonald Jr. *
Wesley William McErlane
Liam Joseph McKenna +*
Mitchell Ryan McLaughlin +*
Luke Thomas Meade *
Evan Thomas Meier +*
Brady Alexander Mentz *
Joshua Joseph Mirus *
Zachary Michael Mohs *
Devyn Kyler Mullins *
Andrew Patrick Murphy *
Sean Anthony Murray
David Andrew Neville Jr. +*
Brody Deters Niemann *
Jackson Tucker Noel *
Keegan James Goettke *
Luke Michael Hafner
Trevor William Hardig *
Thomas Peter Hater *
Henry James Heitz *
Mason Xavier Helmes
Isaac James Hicks *
Maxwell James Hicks *
Gino Hockenberry *
Bo Isaac Hoffmeier *
Connor Thomas Holiday *
Zachary Ryan Hornberger
Owen Gregory Horvath +*
Will Vincent Horvath +*
Jamison Tempest Huber
Ethan Alexander Huffman
Jacob Smith Hughes *
Samuel D. Jackson *
Ian Clifford James +*
Tyler Joseph Johnson *
Sam M. Jones *
Colin Michael Josshua
Ethan Paul Jung
Noah Edward Kaffenberger *
Mitchell James Kelly *
Luke Alexander Kennedy
Jack Henry Kleiman
Lance Joseph Koch, Jr. *
Aren Matthew Kolkmeyer *
Ethan Kramer *
Nicholas Joseph Kramer *
Quinton Wayne Raymond Kreis *
Brayden Johnathon Kuhling *
Ryan A. Kunz *
Lucas James Anton Kurzhals *
John Richard Lamb
Robert Michael Lamb *
Jack Quinn Leurck
Nicholas Lienhart *
Ethan Charles Lipps *
Braeden E. Little
Connor Scott Loebker +*
Erik Karl Long +*
Cristian Lorenzo-Perez *
Nicholas Patrick Lyons *
Anthony John Robert Mancini *
Jackson Marshall Martin *
Joshua Matias-Aguilar *
Logan Robert Schimmelpfennig-Warnke *
Zach Schmitz
Ryan Douglas Schnieder *
Jacob Schorsch *
Michael Dean Schutte
Connor Thomas Schwarz +*
Benjamin James Seger +*
August Alexander Serger *
Ethan Michael Sharp
Brendan Smith
Logan Daniel Smith *
Carter Daniel Sokolis +*
Maxwell Stallmeyer +*
Noah Alexander Stamper +*
Thomas William Joseph Norris
Brennan David O’Connell *
Gianluca Antonio Oliverio *
Jefferry W. Orozco-Aguilar *
James Philip Owens *
Mason Robert Paschka *
Ezequias A. Perez-Juarez
Darinel B. Perez-Morales
Andry Perez-Vasquez *
Jason Lawrence Peters *
De’Angelo Romero Petty *
Damon Joseph Philpot
Daniel Nicholas Pickering
Will Andrew Pieczonka *
Gabriel James Pille *
Brandon Ronald Poff *
Jacob Jerome Priestle *
John Thomas Ranes
Yifry E. Reynoso-Vasquez *
Jake Rhein
Tyler Stephen Richie *
Beck Steven Richmond *
Franklin Matthew Rieder *
Joseph P Roth *
Thomas Roth *
Seth Ryan Russell
Ryan M. Schachleiter
Jacob Stautberg +*
Nathanial John Steiner
Joshua Thomas David Steinhaus
Jacob Anthony Steinwert
Henry Thomas Summers +*
Nicholas Paul Tallen *
Zachary Jess Tate
Benjamin William Taylor
Carson Timothy Telger *
Landen Edward Torres *
Johnathan Wyatt Upham *
Hinmer T. Ventura-Chun *
Zachary Thomas Walter *
Justin Kenny Watson Jr. +*
Dominic Jude Weidner *
Benjamin Anthony Weigand
Edwin James Willig
Bayley Anthony Allen Winkle *
Payton Woodruff *
Joshua Henry Dabney Wright
Michael Yerian II *
Bradin Robert Young
Brady K. Young
Reece Owen Zigelmier
Theodore Joseph Zimmer
Lincoln Anthony Zureick *
Elder’s Valedictorian DAVID NEVILLE (pictured left), son of Karin and David Neville, will be attending the University of Notre Dame where he will be majoring in Finance.
Elder’s Salutatorian HENRY SUMMERS (pictured right), son of Susan and Tom Summers, will be attending Miami University where he will be majoring in Finance.
Congratulations, David & Henry on your accomplishments!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FIVE STUDENTS FROM THE CLASS OF 2024 WHO WERE GIVEN AWARDS OF DISTINCTION TO HONOR THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ELDER COMMUNITY!
Christian Life Award: To the Student who, by his actions, the principles that Jesus taught and to which all of us are called.
MITCHELL KELLY
Archbishop
Elder Memorial Award (Elder's Highest Honor):
To the Student who best exemplifies the type of graduate Elder aims to develop. CODY FAETH
Leadership Award: To the Student who was outstanding in his positive leadership at Elder.
HENRY HEITZ
Memorial - The Reverend Ralph C. Bange:
To the Student who was outstanding in the use of his talents both in class and in extra-curricular activities.
SAM JONES
Roger Auer Distinguished Service Award:
To the Student who was outstanding in his service to the Elder Community. CONNOR BILL
Congratulations to Jacob Eddingfield who finished as one of the top four finalists in the Vocal Music category of the CINCINNATI ARTS ASSOCIATION'S 2024 OVERTURE AWARDS! The Overture Awards is a program that recognizes and rewards excellence in the arts among Greater Cincinnati students in grades 9-12. The Overture Awards Competition is the area’s largest solo arts competition and offers awards in six artistic disciplines.
Special shoutout to Ryan Brass, UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY, and Liam McKenna, UNITED STATES ARMY WEST POINT, for receiving appointments to these prestigious institutions and for choosing to serve our country. The Purple Nation stands behind you with pride!
Commandant Ken Griffith of the Montezuma-Cincinnati Detachment of the Marine Corps League presented Ryan Brass (U.S. Navy) with the 2024 SGT. GREG WEBER U.S.M.C. AMERICAN SPIRIT AWARD. Since 1986, the award has been presented annually to a senior whose post-graduation plans include entering into some area of military service. While academics are important, the type of person he is and the qualities he exhibits both in and out of the classroom must be second to none. Finally, a positive attitude and classy disposition as an individual are essential, and his classroom conduct and cooperation in that regard must be rock solid. Congratulations, Ryan!
Congratulations to Connor Bill who was named STUDENT VISIONARY OF THE YEAR BY THE LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY (LLS). Student Visionaries of the Year (SVOY) is a seven-week fundraising campaign which ran from January 29th through March 16th. During the campaign, Connor and his team, Team Westside Warriors, raised an amazing $137,000. Team Westside Warriors and the other 18 local high school teams collectively raised over $785,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Commencement Speaker
Elder welcomed Tom Butler ’75 as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2024. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Cincinnati, Tom began his career at Monarch Construction Company. He was promoted to President of Monarch in 1996 and became the principal owner and CEO in 2017, retiring in 2022.
Under Tom’s leadership, Monarch constructed over $3 billion worth of projects across the Greater Cincinnati region for both private and public owners. However, his most meaningful construction projects have been at Elder. Tom's involvement includes the creation of the Panther Fitness Center and the renovations of the Fr. Schaeper Center, wrestling/volleyball gym, fieldhouse, and the 1922 and 1959 buildings.
Tom and his wife Lynn have three children: Mike ’08, Stephen ’11, and Elizabeth.
WE ARE PROUD TO RECOGNIZE THE TOP TEN SENIORS FOR THE CLASS OF 2024! THESE TOP TEN STUDENTS HAVE EARNED CLOSE TO $4.3 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS!
David Neville (Valedictorian)
University of Notre Dame
Henry Summers (Salutatorian)
Miami University
Max Stallmeyer
Villanova University
Connor Bill
Miami University
Erik Long
University of Cincinnati
Carter Sokolis
University of Cincinnati
Owen Horvath
University of Cincinnati
Will Horvath
University of Cincinnati
Michael Brogan
University of Cincinnati
Evan Meier
The Ohio State University
TRADITION NEVER
NEVER GRADUATES
TRADITION NEVER
NEVER GRADUATES
2O24 Alumni Awards
Christian Leadership Award
DEACON
BILL BRUNSMAN ’54
This award is given to a member of the Elder community who best exemplifies the Christian values upon which Elder High School is based. This year’s recipient is Deacon Willard (Bill) Brunsman ’54.
In 1976, the first year the archdiocese instituted permanent deacons, Bill was ordained a Permanent Deacon. During the last 48 years, Bill has had assignments at St. Mary’s Church in Oxford, OH, Queen of Peace Church in Millville, OH, and St. Aloysius Church in Shandon, OH. He has conducted RCIA Programs, marriage preparation, and baptism classes and has presided over many weddings and funerals. Bill also has a special interest in the Prison Ministry. It has been told that Bill delivers unique and inspiring homilies –one where he told the congregation that he has five children and all attended Catholic schools; however, two of them are in prison -one is the warden, and the other a lieutenant of the guards.
Bill and his wife Betty have been married for over 65 years and have been blessed with five children.
THE ELDER ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ANNUALLY RECOGNIZES
GRADUATES & ACTIVE SUPPORTERS OF THE SCHOOL THROUGH
THE PRESENTATION OF FIVE Alumni Awards. TO LEARN
MORE ABOUT THE AWARDS OR IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO NOMINATE SOMEONE, PLEASE CONTACT THE ALUMNI OFFICE.
PICTURED L TO R: Deacon Bill Brunsman ’54, Tim Haders ’79, Tom Jennings ’80, Dr. Matthew Busam ’93, Jerry McAdams ’77, and Bob Callahan ’68.
Cultural Enrichment Award
TIM HADERS ’79
The Cultural Enrichment Award is awarded to a member of the Elder community who has advanced the appreciation of culture in society. This year’s recipient is Tim Haders ’79.
Tim, who has been teaching art at Covington Catholic High School for over 40 years, was introduced by one of his former students, Murray Dwertman, now one of Elder's visual art teachers. Here are a few words from Murray's introduction:
“One teacher stood out in my experience at Cov Cath and that was Mr. Tim Haders. He showed us how to build culture in so many areas. He had creative ways for the students to express themselves. He shared with us about his tough upbringing and how he used art to preserve his life in high school.”
When Tim looks back, he’s so happy his parents didn’t give him the option to go to a public school. Elder had a great art program so that is where he chose to go. “Elder is a great institution,” Tim said. “I was in the transition years in the art department. For the first two years, I had Robert Gregory who taught the discipline and hard work of art and the last two years I had Bob Beemon who truly taught me about passion, taking risks, and having fun with art.”
Tim thanked his family, his siblings, his children, and his late wife Cathy, who was always behind everything he did.
Spirit of Elder Award
TOM JENNINGS ’80
The Spirit Award is named in honor of Rev. Edward L. Rudemiller, alumnus and longtime athletic director. This year's recipient is Tom Jennings ’80.
After graduating in 1980, Tom attended the University of Cincinnati, where he received a BS in Accounting. He continued to Chase College of Law, earning a JD degree. He is a CPA and licensed attorney in Ohio. He has worked as a CPA for Arthur Young and Ernst & Young, in private law practice at Jennings and Galligan, as President of the private equity firm Union Springs, LLC, and as General Counsel of Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals. Tom is now the CFO of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati.
Alumni
Tom joined the Alumni Board in 1991 and served for 27 years and was president in 1997. He chaired the golf outing committee for many years and worked on the sports stag, family picnic, and alumni awards committees. Tom also serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including The Joe Acito Fund for Elder High School.
Tom thanked his parents for making the sacrifice of prioritizing a Catholic education for their children. “The discipline, work ethic, pride, loyalty, and morals that I learned and experienced at Elder laid the groundwork for my personal life and my career,” said Tom, “that is why it has been so easy to stay involved with Elder. Plus, I have made lifelong friends through my involvement with the board.”
Academic & Professional Distinction Award
DR. MATTHEW BUSAM ’93
This award is given to a member of the Elder community whose professional achievements foster superior performance in his peers as well as the men of Elder. This year’s recipient is Dr. Matthew Busam ’93.
After Matt graduated, he attended the University of Notre Dame, where he earned a BA in Theology and Pre-Professional Studies. Matt continued his academic journey by enrolling in medical school at Vanderbilt University before pursuing advanced training at Rush University in Chicago.
Matt returned home in 2007 to join Cincinnati Sports Medicine. He is now the Chief Medical Officer for FC Cincinnati and Elder High School. During the day, he is the orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Health Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center.
Matt said, “we have a saying that the eye can’t see what the mind doesn’t know; this really means we need a strong base, great education, and experience, but we must continually keep our eyes open, looking forward to seeing what lies ahead. Day-to-day medicine is just a relationship. I am thankful for those relationships – my parents, my teachers here, and my family – my wife Mollie and our three children – Drew, JJ, and Annie. I am also thankful for the education I received from Elder and for the relationships formed throughout the past almost 50 years.”
Spirit of Elder Award
JERRY MCADAMS ’77
This award is given to a member of the Elder community who perpetuates the unselfish enthusiasm that is the Elder experience. This year’s recipient is Jerry McAdams ’77.
Jerry has been at the forefront of so many efforts in support of athletics and many other thoughtful, generous, and enjoyable events. Yes, Jerry "bleeds purple."
Jerry may be known to some as the successor to Dom Bonavita as the functional head of the Boosters. Many think Boosters are synonymous with Split-The-Pot, but their involvements go far beyond that. Jerry serves at two-a-days, faculty lunches during Catholic Schools Week, Father/Son breakfasts, Senior Golf Outings, and Dads' Club gatherings among other banquets and events. Jerry and his crew have aided the Stag and have provided welcoming support at some of the more recent Celebrations of Life in the Schaeper Center.
As Jerry enjoys his retirement, he will probably invest even more of himself in serving Elder–the games, celebrations, and events along with the people whose lives he has touched.
Jerry began by thanking his wife Denise and sons Brett ’04 and Brian ’06 along with Dom Bonavita and Joe Lind because he said, “Trust me, I wouldn’t be here tonight if it wasn’t for those people who surround me.”
Athletic Achievement Award
BOB CALLAHAN ’68
This year’s recipient is Bob Callahan ’68. It is awarded to a member of the Elder community who embraces the values of fair competition and whose tenacity and sacrifice have advanced the Elder athletic tradition.
Bob graduated from Xavier University with a BS/BA and a master’s in education from the University of Cincinnati. Bob began his teaching career at Roger Bacon High School. He then continued his journey at Three Rivers Local Schools and currently, Bob teaches mathematics to 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at St. Jude School.
In the fall of 1968, St. Teresa CYO coach Jack McDonald asked Bob to help with some Elder plays. This experience led Bob to coach St. Teresa’s CYO team, during which he discovered his passion for coaching basketball and teaching.
Awards
Bob was the head coach of Roger Bacon's 1982 state basketball championship team. According to a Cincinnati Enquirer article about the win, “this small school from St. Bernard found the right combination of grit and luck to become just the third team and second school from Hamilton County in the 60-year history of the tournament to win the AAA big-school title."
Bob thanked his wife, Cathleen, for all the support she has given to him in their 45+ years of marriage and for allowing him to pursue his passion for coaching.
Bridgetown Middle School
Dominic Hornsby
Delhi Middle School
Alexander Gamble*
Ma’ liek Lail*
Matthew Lay, Jr.
Carsyn Neyer
Harrison Middle School
Elijah Acree*
Anthony Mulvaney*
Ethan Seal
Highlands Middle School
Johnie Holmes
Holy Family
Jordan Bernardo
Anthony Bernardo Nolasco*
Anthony Ordonez Gomez
Julio Perez Bartolon
Elder Tomas Ventura
Edwin Vasquez Ramos
Home School
Liam Brown*
Travon Dallas*
Brayden Kovacic
Hughes
Dewayne Gray, Jr.*
Immaculate Heart of Mary (KY)
Christian Shondel*
Our Lady of Lourdes
James Billman
Wesley Billman
Colin Bowery
Landen Brown
Owen Broxterman*
Michael Cluxton*
Craig Conway, Jr.
Jaxen Dawson
Rocco DePaoli
Liam Dragston
Korbyn Flanigan
Nolan Hamric
Walter Kelsey*
Tyler McNally
Kael McVey
Johnathan Sellet
William Sellet
Mason Turner
William Turner
Ezra Witte
Our Lady of Victory
Alex Becker*
Jacob Bier*^
Carson Bonnick
Dennis Brunner*
Brian Chambers, III
Nicholas Clark
Landen Donnellon
Rogan Easterly*
Coyt Goodin*
Chase Hasselbeck*
Theodore Heitz*
Sam Henderer*
David Henkel*
Hunter Hoog*
Cody Kaufman*^
Cameron Kelly*
Jonathan Knepfle
Lincoln Kuethe
Connor McCarthy*^
Nicholas McKenzie*
Jacob Meister*^
Joe Nix*^
Braden Ott*
Michael Ripley*^
Dennis Tepe*^
Christian Willig*
Andrew Wilms*
Cole Wittwer
Our Lady of Visitation
Bradyn Ackerman*
Cooper Ahlers*
Brayden Braun*
Aidan Brogan*^
Logan Bruner
Joseph Carnevale*
Gavin Cebula*
Luca Cittadino
Johnathon Dusold*
Drew Emerson*
Samuel Faillace
Ian Foley*^
Pete Fortkamp*^
Ryder Fox
Jax Hodgeman*
Cole Hodgeman*^
Maxwell Holthaus*
Charles Horvath*
Evan Kafel
Kaan Laake
John Leisgang*
Ryan Lipps
Ronan Macke*+
Matthew Manion, Jr.*
Braden Miller*
Carson Moehring*
Michael Moorman, Jr.*^
Reese Morgan*^
Chase Niehaus*
Paxton Pace*
Samuel Parton
Nickolos Poulos*^
Nolan Rogers*
Jaydon Scheland
William Schuler*^
Patrick Spinney*
Luke Steinriede*
Jonah Tauber*^
Samuel Ward*^
Rapid Run Middle School
Jamison Geil
Tristan Henlein
Aven Johnson*
Timothy Martin
Maxwell Noble*^
Carson Nusekabel*
Landen Pope
Class of 2028 WELCOME
246 students from 34 different elementary schools comprise the incoming freshman class. Many are receiving scholarships made possible through your generous gifts to the Annual Fund.
Benjamin Rudemiller*
Henry Schmutte
Theodore Stricker
Christian Welge
St. Columban
Stephen Wandstrat*
St. Dominic
Braydon Bishop
Brayden Broxterman
Caleb Coleman
Wesley Durban
Nicholas Fettig
Christopher Gatliff, Jr.
Dalton Hiett
Landon Hogel
Adin Hollingsworth
Sean Jones
Kaiden Koch
Liam Mullins*+
Noah Nauman*+
Kraig Ray*
Colton Stryker
Michael Thompson
David Tirado*
Tristen Traynor
Sebastian Valladares*
Blake Williams*
Resurrection
Brady Carpenter
Malachi Myers
Logan Uhl*
Riverside Academy
Bryce Wombles*
Sayler Park School
Connor Janson
Wesley Miller
Gavin Strickley
Brayden Tepe
William Voll
St. Aloysius
Lincoln Drake*
Carlos Mott
St. Antoninus
Harrison Cafeo*
Jackson Cafeo*
Lucas Calme
Mac Carter
Aarin Conners
Nicholas Cowans
Parker Downey*^
Weston Gable*
Anthony Gruen
Jonathan Hillgrove
Dominic Hinkle
Jackson Kirch*^
Maxton Kramer*
Mason Lambers*
Evan Leicht*
Owen Mendenhall*
Noah Paff*
William Reder*
Owen Rogers
Peter Rokich
St. Ignatius
Patrick Condren*^
Jacob Millard*
Eric Pressler*^
Eli Roberts*
Anthony Stautberg, Jr.*
St. James
Nicholas Beckenhaupt*
Sawyer Bradshaw*^
Evan Harbstreit*
Lucas Schwetschenau*
Jacob Shoemaker*
St. John, Dry Ridge
Grayson Smith*
St. Joseph (KY)
Dominic Cassesa*
St. Jude
Brody Allen*
Tanner Behrens*
Jack Dietrich
Grant Docter*+
Brady Ernst*^
Charles Fischer*+
Jackson Foster*
Vincent Glassmeyer
Reid Helmes*
Joseph Hoffman*
Nathan Homoelle
Collin James
Brendan Kamstra*
Alexander Kotz
Finley Lyman
Jackson Marker*
Justin Massa*
Jake Mezger*
William Peters*^
Jackson Poland*
Andrew Ruth*^
Mitchell Sand*^
Carter Sauser*
Carter Schaefer*
Austin Schapker
Ben Schwartz*
Anthony Thomas*
Henry Thomas*
Luke Vetter*^
St. Lawrence
Jeserson Hernandez Ixcoy
Jonathan Jerónimo-Gonzalez
Adam Lageman
Leonardo Mendez Gonzalez
Tristan O’Neal*
Keller Perez Aguilar
Wisin Ramos Morales
Asher Roblero Morales
Eric Tharp, Jr.
Cristian Vasquez Ramirez
St. Lawrence (IN)
Nicholas Witte*
St. Martin
Donyel Blevins
Carson Gretchen*
Nico Lopez, Jr.
St. Mary
Grant Pachuta*
St. Teresa
Dylan Akers
John Carusone, III
Gabriel Darnell*^
Jay Dillard, Jr.
Tyran Dudley*
Alexander Mazariegos Ramirez
Joseph Perez Nolasco
Luis Pichardo Huape
Everson Ramirez
Harrison Tarbell*^
Chandler Willacker*
St. Thomas More
Elijah Martinez
St. Vivian
Caleb Curry*
St. William
Hermar Bernardo
Hunter Crawford-Durbin
Jimmy Feliciano Aguilar
Anderson Ixcoy-Mendez
Alex Ortiz Perez
Ethan Walls, Jr.
Taylor Middle School
Mason Stautberg*+
West Clermont Middle School
Brody Turner
September 20, 27
October 2, 4, 8,11, 25, 30
November 1, 22, 26
December 5, 13
January 10
November 14 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.
December 6
The Munich Sister City Exchange Program returned to Elder with 14 students from Munich immersing themselves in our school environment. Here, three of them are pictured with their hosts from Elder. Welcome to Cincinnati! Herzlich Willkommen!
AP Spanish and AP German students embarked on an enriching journey to the Cincinnati Art Museum. This field trip seamlessly aligned with the theme of Beauty and Aesthetics, a cornerstone of their AP Language curriculum. It was a day fostering a deeper appreciation for art and language alike.
Students in Señora Corey’s Spanish III class enjoyed a deliciously immersive experience at Mi Casa Panaderia y Carniceria. They participated in a bread-making demonstration, where the baker, speaking entirely in Spanish, walked them through the process of creating various types of pan dulce. The students put their Spanish skills to the test, purchasing sweet treats and ordering lunch at the neighboring Veracruz Restaurant. It was a day of hands-on learning and tasty rewards!
Brad Arling ’89 spoke today to Mrs. Daubenmerkl’s Catholic Morality classes. Brad speaks to various schools throughout the year as part of the Think First Program through Tri-Health. The Think First Program was developed in collaboration with Mayfield Clinic to educate high school and middle school students as well as youth athletes on sports safety and concussion management/prevention.
Students in Ms. Williams-Mitchell’s 9th grade classes visited the Cincinnati Type & Print Museum to find out more about the history of the printed word. Museum founder Gary Walton, a former Cincinnati State professor, shared the history and impact of printing with moveable type. Students learned about casting type with an antique Ludlow machine and made prints on two different kinds of presses.
French 3 Honors students enjoyed a field trip to Mon Petit Choux, a pastry shop in Cheviot. They participated in an interactive demonstration that included dough mixing, laminating, and proofing. The students finished off the pastries by adding scoops of sweet cream cheese and fruit. They asked questions about pastry making, learned about the importance of quality ingredients and kitchen safety, and each left with their own delicious creation. A big thank you to Mon Petit Choux for welcoming our students!
Our Academic Team clinched the championship at the GCAL Winter Tournament! Against fierce competition from ten Cincinnati Catholic High School teams, Elder emerged triumphant, securing a remarkable victory over Moeller in the final showdown!
Congratulations to the newly elected Student Council Executive Office for the 2024-2025 school year! We’re excited to see the fresh ideas and leadership you’ll bring to our community. (Pictured left to right)
President
Nate Esmail
Vice President
Joey Mathews
Treasurer
Toby Brubaker
Secretary
John Merk
Communications Officer
Ryan Conners
Senior Class Co-Presidents
Oliver Zureick
Carlos Brogan
Max Hicks ’24 was recognized at the UC IT Expo 2024 for his innovative entry, “Empower Lifting” – a cutting-edge weightlifting data entry and tracking system. Max is one of three seniors who completed the Early IT program at Elder and will start at the University of Cincinnati with his first year of the IT program already completed.
Caleb Broxterman, pictured with his parents Chris and Melanie, and his sister.
Andrew Schlomer, pictured with his dad, Mike (an Elder math teacher), and his mom, Lisa.
A big congratulations to Caleb Broxterman ’26 and Andrew Schlomer ’26 for their outstanding achievements at the Veterans of Foreign War Post 10380 competition! Caleb clinched 1st place, while Andrew secured 3rd place, each earning a prestigious cash scholarship. Way to go, Caleb and Andrew!
Congratulations to Ryan Kunz ’24! He is the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Senior in French Award given by the American Association of Teachers in French.
Congratulations to Kenny Bier ’24 for being honored with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizen Award! Nominated by Principal Kurt Ruffing, Kenny was selected for his exemplary qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism.
Pictured: DAR Regent of the Cincinnati Chapter, Monica Mohlenkamp; Kenny Bier; Principal Kurt Ruffing.
Congratulations to Erik Long ’24 for receiving the Outstanding High School Senior Award from the American Association of Teachers of German for his dedication to the German Language and Culture.
Congratulations to Connor Holiday ’24 for winning the local Fleet Reserve Association (FRA) essay contest on Americanism. The FRA has an annual essay contest to promote the spirit of Americanism and patriotism among our country’s youth.
Senior Ethan Lipps was presented with the Andrew J. Bucher & Company “Excellence in Accounting” Award. This award is given to the student who, over two years in the courses of Accounting 1 and Advanced Accounting, exemplifies the highest level of excellence throughout these classes. Congratulations, Ethan!
Pictured from left to right: Tina Lipps, mom, Ethan, Andy Bucher ’80, and Jeff Vogel ’04.
Congratulations to the Elder Band, also known as The Spirit of Elder, for achieving a superior rating at the Kings Island Music Festival.
The Seton-Elder Performing Arts series delighted audiences for four magical evenings with their heartwarming rendition of Shrek – the Musical. The excitement peaked on Sunday night with a sold-out crowd! An outstanding performance by all involved!
With over 40 years of tradition, Dave Allen and the Glee Club have been an integral part of the Ancient Order of Hibernians Memorial Mass held at Immaculata Church. In recognition of his leadership in the Glee Club and their participation in the St. Patrick’s Day parade, Dave Allen was honored with a prestigious membership as an honorary member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians!
Elder and Seton students recently gathered for a “Pray and Play” event led by Fr. Andre Gronotte, LC. The evening was filled with food, fellowship, guided adoration, and fun games, creating a wonderful blend of spiritual enrichment and community bonding.
The Elder Steel Drum Band brought joy and lively entertainment to the residents of Bayley Place.
Over 200 preschool and kindergarten students from Holy Family, Romero at Resurrection, St. Lawrence, St. Teresa, and St. William schools enjoyed an Easter Egg hunt, hosted by members of Elder’s Spanish National Honor Society. As part of their service project, the students filled eggs, crafted bunny gift bags, and organized hunts during the school day. A special thank you goes to the egg hunt leaders—Luke Ross, JT Hoffman, Nick Jones, Austin Godfrey, and Andrew Guidroz for a job well done.
Let’s give a big round of applause to Jonathon Wheelright-Soriano ‘26 for his incredible dedication over the past year in composing an original piece for the concert band. His masterpiece premiered at the Spring Concert, and it was nothing short of amazing! Fantastic job, Jonathon—we can't wait to hear what you create next!
The 2024 Elder Art show was a tremendous success with over 100 participating artists and designers exhibiting over 700 works! A special thanks to benefactor and 1969 alumnus, Kim Knoppe, for sponsoring nine Scholarships for excellence in Art and Design! Here are this year’s ‘Kim Knoppe Art Awards of Excellence:
The Purple Lens Award (photo category)
Oliver Zureick ’25
Beyond the Bob Award (painting/drawing)
Noah Collins ’24
Off the Wall Award (3D media)
Nathan Knoll ’25
Knoppe Knockout Awards
(Four “at-large” awards)
Carson Behrendt ’24
Jacob Brossart ’24
Michael Brogan ’24
Tyler Lorenzen ’25
Best in Show
(Selected by Kim Knoppe)
Sam Reinbach ’25
The Mark Klusman Day of Service 2024 was a tremendous success. Thank you to everyone who participated by repairing trails at Bender Mountain, cleaning up Price Hill around Elder, landscaping at Dunham Recreation Center, mulching at Saylor Park, landscaping and cleaning up the trails at Lauren Hill Memorial Park, and the PAC and Panther Park clean-up. This day truly embodied the spirit of Klus. Thanks to all for making it a great day!
A group of Elder students and staff traveled to Louisa, KY, for a mission trip at the Fr. Beiting Appalachian Mission Center. While the weather did not cooperate and we were not able to repair the homes we had intended, the boys made the best of their time and worked hard on everything that was given to them. They made Blessing Boxes that the mission plans on putting up around town, painted the mission office bathrooms, went to the senior citizens center to visit, worked at the food pantry, visited a widow and another family, washed the food pantry truck and the missions box truck, along with a few other jobs. We celebrated mass outside at the lake, had beautiful fellowship, and made new friends.
Thank you to Brandon Saho for sharing his inspiring story with our students.
“The Mental Game” is changing lives by tackling the stigma of mental health. As a former sports reporter, Brandon launched this podcast to feature athletes, musicians, and entertainers, all working together to break the stigma.
Walk for Others 2024 was a huge success raising over $100,000 for tuition assistance and local charities. Thanks to everyone who donated or sponsored a student. The theme, Striding for Greatness, is a reminder that we should remain in constant pursuit of improving ourselves and the lives of others.
Elder Campus Ministry students had a remarkable experience connecting with Archbishop Schnurr during the annual video conference at the ENN studio during Catholic Schools Week.
Former Elder High School principal, Mr. Tom Otten, class of 1964, graciously accepted the invitation to present to Mr. DeAtley’s Ecclesiology and History classes today. Mr. Otten spoke to the students about the history of the Catholic Church in Cincinnati, the life and ministry of Archbishop William Henry Elder, the history of Elder High School, and our school’s continued influence on our community
basketball swimming
The Panthers were Cincinnati’s only D1 team to reach Ohio’s Sweet Sixteen the past two seasons and finished the year as District Champs with a 21-5 record for the second consecutive year. They also set a couple of noteworthy marks this season, according to Elder basketball historian Ken Niederhausen ’63. The defensive average of 42.1 points per game was the lowest in Coach Schoenfeld’s 33 years as head coach. It was Elder’s best since Coach Frey’s 1990 team allowed 40.7 ppg. Additionally, the Panthers won 20+ games for the fourth consecutive season, eclipsing the previous mark of three straight seasons. One new feature that kept “The Pit” rocking was a light show created by Sam Jones ’24 for PA announcer Kelby Siler’s pre-game introductions. The cagers featured nine multi-sport varsity athletes, nine student-athletes on the Honor Roll, and a 3.92 Team GPA.
TEAM AWARDS:
Leading Rebounder: Tyler Johnson
Leading FT% Shooter: Drew Murphy
Best Defensive: Drew Murphy
Mr. ZIP: Ryan Brass
Most Improved: Gerry McDonald, Tyler Richie
Mr. Panther: Ryan Brass, Tyler Johnson, Drew Murphy, Cam Williams
GCL AWARDS:
1st Team: Cam Williams
2nd Team: Ryan Brass, Tyler Johnson, Drew Murphy
Defensive POY: Drew Murphy
The Aqua Panthers had 39 swimmers representing Elder for first-year head coach Matt Ense. The Aqua Panthers went 7-2 in dual meets and captured a school record 4th straight Best of the West team title. 20 swimmers represented Elder in the post-season competition with 12 athletes qualifying for districts. One swimmer, junior, Charlie Pressler qualified for the Ohio High School State Championships in Canton, OH.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captains: Lincoln Zeurick, George Aug
Mr. Panther: Lincoln Zeurick
Mr. Zip: George Aug
Most Improved: Sam White
Most Valuable: Charlie Pressler
Congratulations to the Elder basketball team for finishing the year as District Champs!
bowling wrestling
hockey
The Wrestling team wrapped up another successful season. The team finished 9-3 in duals and advanced 11 of 14 starters to the district tournament. At the district tournament, five Panthers placed in the top six of their weight class with four advancing to the state tournament. This extended Elder’s streak of state qualifiers to 44 years in a row. This year’s state qualifiers included sophomore Colin Broxterman, juniors Joey Thamann and Konner Lambers, and senior Lucas Kurzhals. This is the third consecutive year that Thamann and Lambers have qualified, while Broxterman finished 6th in his bracket making him the 51st Elder wrestler to earn state placement in school history.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captains: Lucas Kurzhals, Brady Mentz, Konner Lambers
Most Improved: Phil Corcoran
Mr. ZIP: Phil Owens
The Panthers got off to a rough start but continued to improve and picked up a big win during a trip to Columbus, defeating Olentangy. The Panthers battled till the end, ultimately losing in the state tournament to St. Charles Prep.
TEAM AWARDS:
Oblinger Award: Henry Topp
Most Improved Forward: Owen Horvath
Most Improved Defenseman: Jack Vetter
Mr. Zip: Ethan May
Mr. Panther: John Lutz
Most Valuable Player: Ben Brinker
The bowling program had a solid year on all three levels. We won our sectional tournament but fell short at districts. With four seniors graduating, we are reloading with good firepower and some talented underclassmen rising through the program for next season. We ended up with a second-place finish in the GCL.
TEAM AWARDS:
Mr. Panther: Brendan Smith
Most Improved: Jayden Brown
Most Valuable: Ben Seger
Mr. Panther: Lucas Kurzhals
Co-Most Valuable: Konner Lambers,
Congrats to sophomore Colin Broxterman for finishing 6th place at the OHSAA state wrestling tournament!
baseball tennis
The Panthers came into the season with very little experience having lost 12 seniors from last year’s team. The inexperience showed early in the season as the team dropped their first three games by a combined score of 39-13. After their slow start, they got things turned around and got back to their successful ways winning their next seven games including a three-game sweep in Tennessee. The middle of the season saw the heart of the conference schedule with the boys going 6-3 in the GCL for a 2nd place finish. As the #3 seed in the tournament draw, the boys defeated West Clermont 7-2, Kings 4-2, and Centerville 13-2 to win the district championship! In the regionals, the guys unfortunately saw their season end against Mason by a 9-5 score. Although they did not win in the regionals, it was still a terrific season.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captains: Tyler Biggs, Brayden Curlis, Zach Walter
Mr. ZIP: Colin Espelage, Ben Weigand
Phil Brown Batting Champion: Caden Ammon
Defensive POY: Zach Walter
Offensive POY: Caden Ammon
Quality At-Bat: Jaden Walpole
Ralph Birkofer Outstanding Pitcher: Brayden Curlis
Scholar Athlete: Caden Ammon, Tyler Biggs, Colin Espelage, Gus Serger
Panther Award: Tyler Biggs
Price Hill Oldtimers Scholarship: Tyler Biggs
Phil Brown Memorial Scholarship: Zach Walter
GCL AWARDS:
1st Team: Caden Ammon, Tyler Biggs
2nd Team: Jaden Walpole, Eli Roden
Honorable Mention: Brayden Curlis, Ben Weigand
The tennis team had a phenomenal season this year with a very tough schedule. They ended the season 11-9 while playing two teams that ended in the top eight in the state and beating one of them - Walnut Hills 3-2. We placed first in the Best of the West, third in the GCL, and third in the Coaches Classic. Jacob Eddingfield led the Panthers at first Singles posting a 24-9 record, winning both the Best of the West and Coaches Classic, and coming in second in sectionals behind the eventual state champion.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captain: Jacob Eddingfield
Mr. ZIP: Sam Meade
Most Improved: Colton Saupe
The lacrosse season was full of challenges and adversity, but the team navigated them maturely and methodically. Through their hard work and dedication, they produced another winning season. Regardless of the tough schedule, injuries, or the weather, the players came out daily with positive energy and enthusiasm. The team, especially the senior class, embodied the spirit of “Altiora”. Every year, these kids build a stronger and stronger foundation. The future is extremely bright with exciting things to come for the lacrosse program.
TEAM AWARDS:
Mr. ZIP: Ben Taylor
Most Improved: Brody Kremm
Top Groundballs: Max Stallmeyer
Offensive MVP: Bo Hoffmeier, David Neville
Defensive MVP: Evan Meier
volleyball
track & field lacrosse
The volleyball program finished with a collective 53-16 record. The Varsity Panthers faced some adversity, battling injuries in the middle of the season. However, they continued to show character finishing the season on a 6-1 tear.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captains: Jack Davis, Sean Murray, Mitchell Kelly
Mr. ZIP: Mitchell Kelly
Most Improved: Ben Sponaugle
Mr. Panther: Brayden Bass, Jack Davis
Good Sportsmanship: Will Timmerman
Most Valuable: Tommy Tierney
POST-SEASON AWARDS:
GCL 1st Team: Sean Murray
GCL 2nd Team: Brody Niemann, Tommy Tierney
South Region 2nd Team: Sean Murray
South Region Honorable Mention: Brody Niemann, Tommy Tierney
The Panthers entered this season with a rather inexperienced roster. They qualified five guys to regionals including district champion Nathan Bill (discus), Zach Tate (pole vault), Colton Ginn (shot put), Luke Ross (high jump), and Derek Uran (hurdles). Derek Uran made waves by becoming the GCL, district, and regional champion in the 110-meter hurdles.
TEAM AWARDS:
Captains: Liam McKenna, Ethan Kramer, Jake Hughes, Lincoln Zureick
Outstanding Sprinter: DeAngelo Petty
Outstanding Hurdler: Derek Uran
Outstanding Distance: Jake Hughes
Outstanding Field (Throws): Colton Ginn
Outstanding Field (Jumps): Lucas Fox
Mr. ZIP: Lincoln Zureick
Most Improved: Nathan Bill
Most Valuable: Luke Ross
Bringing Elder a Little Closer
to alumni & friends
In late October and early November of 2023, Kurt Ruffing and Tom Reiring embarked on a trip to NORTH CAROLINA for a series of intimate gatherings with alumni and friends in Charlotte and Raleigh. The first event was hosted by Brian ’90 and Pam Weisker at a local Catholic school in their Charlotte neighborhood. Following that, Mike ’88 and Kimberly Tenoever graciously opened the doors of their ZincHouse Winery & Brewery in Raleigh. This stunning 87-acre venue, complete with vineyards, multiple event spaces, a winery, brewery, and expansive roof decks offering incredible views of the vineyard and estate, provided the perfect backdrop for the Raleigh-Durham Panthers event.
In February 2024, Kurt and Tom took the show on the road again, this time to the Sunshine State. Tim ’84 and Olga McLean hosted a memorable gathering for fellow Panthers at their home in Naples. With alumni and friends spread throughout FLORIDA, Kurt and Tom planned several stops during the week to visit, share high school stories, and update everyone on the remarkable developments at Elder. Throughout these trips, many miles were traveled, memories were relived, and connections were strengthened. Alumni were brought up to speed on the amazing things happening at their alma mater, reinforcing the enduring bonds of the Elder family despite the distance.
Honoring the lives of Elder Alumni who have recently gone before us. A complete listing of deceased graduates can be viewed at www.elderhs.org/Alumni.
William H. Connett ’46
Stanley R. Herrlinger ’47
Richard J. “Dick” Hausman ’47
Paul A. Kroeger ’47
Lawrence J. Panaro ’47
William R. “Bill” Weber ’48
Robert J. Roedersheimer ’48
William J. Rebholz ’51
John S. O’Connell ’51
Edward J. Lampe, Jr. ’51
Stephen N. Junker ’53
Albert M. Ehrman ’53
James W. Doerger ’53
William J. “Bill” Finley ’54
Jerome J. Heithaus ’55
Albert J. “Mac” McMichael ’55
Raymond C. Koch, Sr. ’55
Jerome L. Salamone ’55
Daniel T. Gerard ’56
Brendan T. “Butch” Korte ’56
Kenneth V. Behne ’56
Karl R. Feller ’56
Dale A. Probst '56
John D. Kappes ’57
Ernest E. Prater ’58
J. Patrick Frohn ’59
Glenn J. Kist ’59
Norbert J. Guetle, Jr. ’59
Gerald L. “Jay” Meyer ’59
Clarence R. “Butch” Colegate, Jr. ’59
J. C. “Tim” Timmers ’59
Michael J. Jacobs ’60
Michael P. Brennan ’60
Michael E. Halloran '60
Jerome J. Monahan, Sr. '60
James R. Schutte '60
Donald J. McKinney ’61
Terrence J. Cupito, Sr. ’61
Timothy W. Neiheisel ’61
Frederick M. “Fritz” Meyer ’61
David L. Belbot ’61
Stephen M. Tensi ’61
Robert L. Metz ’61
Thomas J. Austing ’61
James L. Schulter ’62
William R. McDonald ’63
May 2023
March 7
April 1
April 28
May 29
January 16
February 23
April 25
May 1
May 13
December 13
January 10
May 9
February 22
December 8
December 30
January 20
February 29
February 29
March 21
April 26
April 26
May 23
December 17
December 24
January 2023
November 13
January 25
February 23
March 15
March 26
December 19
December 27
March 5
April 21
April 21
September 6
October 6
December 14
December 20
February 13
March 15
March 26
April 22
January 16
December 8
Paul R. Weidner ’63
John D. “Jay” Brogan ’63
Richard W. Niemeier ’63
Charles J. “Chuck” Hueil ’63
Thomas R. Gramke ’64
David W. Bross ’65
Thomas A. Kopp ’65
Russell J. Brogan ’65
Jerome D. Kroll ’65
Thomas E. Yeazell ’66
Michael W. O’Brien ’66
Ronald E. McGaha ’67
Donald W. Cavanaugh ’67
Theodore N. “Ted” Helmes ’68
James E. Doherty ’68
Terrence P. Cappel ’70
Roger J. Warther ’70
Richard D. Meiners ’70
H. Michael Hendrick ’70
William R. “Bill” Ploehs ’70
Ronald F. Dickman ’71
D. G. “Dan” Meyer ’71
Douglas W. Dickerson ’71
Steven M. Davis ’72
Robert J. Austing ’72
Thomas R. Kluesener ’73
C. Gregory Parson ’74
Thomas C. “Otis” Hellmann ’74
James B. Roth ’76
Mark A. Knapp ’76
Robert W. Linger ’76
Peter J. Kanoza ’78
Michael L. Short ’79
William E. “Bill” Duffy, Jr. ’80
Thomas J. Bolger ’80
Christopher J. McCarthy ’83
Edward L. Hartwig, III ’84
Donald L. Westcott ’84
Timothy M. Dwyer ’92
Jayme D. Schneider ’93
Jerry W. Haas ’93
Matthew R. Lipp ’01
Patrick T. Penderghast ’02
Keith J. Connolly ’04
Bret A. Harmeling ’05
December 31
February 26
February 29
March 8
December 7
November 14
November 18
January 23
February 22
February 17
May 1
December 8
April 3
December 25
March 3
December 5
March 27
April 3
May 7
May 22
January 22
March 16
April 29
May 2023
February 8
February 2
January 3
January 31
January 2
April 13
May 6
December 17
April 30
December 18
May 6
May 9
December 17
February 11
January 26
February 11
February 29
January 28
May 31
February 12
January 31
Top of the World
U.S. Navy CAPT. DAVE HECHT ’87 and Fox News anchor BILL HEMMER ’83 braved the minus-40 degree temperatures at ICE CAMP Whale, 500 miles north of Alaska in the Arctic Ocean, to fly a flag honoring Elder High School!
s 7O s 6O
Four-Bagger...
(Pictured L to R) SCOTT BROWN ’79, fellow GCL’er Rick Williams, TIM BUTLER ’79, STEVE ASMAN ’76, and KEN RYAN ’79 won the 2024 Baseball International tournament in Ft. Myers, FL, finishing with a 6 -1 record. This was the team’s fourth consecutive championship in this annual January tournament.
just moved? job change? recently married? new addition to the family? E-mail brian bill at billbd@elderhs.net or simply scan this QR code with your mobile device!
Elder Everywhere
Many thanks to (L to R) JEFF WEBER ’90, JERRY WEBER ’85, PETE RENNEKER ’96, and BRYAN KELLEY ’83 for sending us this pic of a beautiful Purple Friday at St. Andrews in Scotland!
Greatest Tradition...
Members of Purple Properties present the group’s annual donation, representing the football fans who bleed purple on The Pavilion (AKA “the deck behind the house on Regina”). The blending of school and neighborhood is a tribute to “The Greatest Tradition in High School Football.” Pictured (L to R): MARK JANSEN ’74, JIM GRAWE ’69, KEVIN ESPELAGE ’91, KURT RUFFING ’81, DAN WALL ’81, KIM KNOPPE ’69, and TOM REIRING ’88.
00 Classof
JON D. WAGNER ’00 (left) visited Elder’s ENN Studio to record an episode of “The Reel Discussion,” a movie podcast featuring teachers GREG DICKMAN ’00, SPENCER KANDRA ’16 and rising senior Michael Lindle. Jon has served as a producer on several film projects (particularly in the horror/thriller genre) and has some director’s credits
Looking good in white...
Friends and family came to celebrate the white coat ceremony at the University of Louisville’s dental program for CHAD BRINKER ’16. Pictured left to right: ADAM SCHWALLIE ’17, BEN BRINKER ’24, CHAD BRINKER ’16, MITCH WARD ’16, and grandpa, STEVE SCHRADER ’67.
Unofficial Elder reunion for these three from the CLASS OF 2023 at the Army-Navy game this past season! Pictured (L to R) are TOMMY WEBER (Army), ZACK GUTEKUNST (Navy), and ATTICUS WOOD (Army).
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
In the previous issue of The PRIDE, we asked the question: What is it about you that not many people know or would be surprised to learn? Well, you delivered, and – as promised! –here are some of our favorites…
We also promised to enter all submissions into a few random prize drawings. Congratulations to our winners!
$200 Gift Card to the Elder Spirit Store - JACK STIEGLER ’54
Elder Gift Basket - TERRY GROTE ’63
Elder Sports Pass for 2024-2025 Home Games - MIKE WOLBER ’74
Thanks to all who submitted your stories. It’s been nice getting to know you!
ELDER IS HOME
by MIKE GLEASON ’85, 2024 Alumni Board President
Walking out of Music Hall in 1985 as a new graduate of Elder High School, I asked myself, “What is it about this place that makes it so special?”
Over the years, I have tried answering that question to people around Cincinnati, the state of Ohio, and even while vacationing across the country. The answer from any of us may be slightly different than the next, but the admiration, respect, and care for Elder is a resounding part of all our answers.
My replies always seem to reflect the impact made by faculty and staff members. They took the time to provide me with the confidence to face the future, and instilled in me the importance of hard work, commitment, teamwork, loyalty, and tradition. Also, the friendships I made as a freshman have grown stronger with each passing year, and the memories I hold in my heart and the feeling I get every time I step back on campus are part of my fabric. Elder is home, whether it be in The Pit on a Friday evening, inside the halls, or at any of the many school and alumni events throughout the year.
Elder is special for many reasons, and each one of us plays a role in making it special, unique, and always “home.” Because of that, Elder remains “the place” for students to grow into men and continue the tradition of striving for Altiora, the higher things!
It is a privilege and honor for me to serve as the 2024 Elder Alumni Board President. The board consists of alumni who volunteer their time for our alma mater by supporting events throughout the year for other alumni and friends to enjoy. I extend my appreciation to outgoing board members LUKE BUSAM ’00, DICK DIMUZIO ’77, and JIM VETTER ’88 for their combined 40+ years of service and dedication to Elder.
As fellow grads, I hope you, too, remain involved in the Elder community by joining us for these always fun events, and that each one of you enjoys the traditions of Elder and takes the opportunity to create new ones. We all make Elder a better place, a special family, a home for all.
To your continued good health and prosperity in 2024…Altiora!
Mike Gleason ’85
JULY 27 & 28
ALUMNI SOCCER WEEKEND
AUGUST 9
TOM & BONNIE OTTEN ALUMNI FAMILY PICNIC
SEPTEMBER 22
PURPLE & WHITE SENIOR ALUMNI MASS & DINNER
SEPTEMBER 28
ELDERAMA
OCTOBER 14 EBA GOLF OUTING
AUGUST 10
ALUMNI CROSS COUNTRY RACE
OCTOBER-FEBRUARY ALUMNI BOWLING LEAGUE
