GILMOUR
Sponsored by the Congregation of Holy Cross, Notre Dame, Indiana
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EDITOR
Amy Boyle
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Amy Boyle
Rob Fowler
Nicholas Hayslip ’24
Marisa Martin Moses
Ray Murphy
Henry Wickham ’68
GILMOUR CONTACTS
Chief Enrollment Management, Tuition Assistance, Marketing and Communications Officer
Beth Titas Lazzaro
Chief Advancement and Operating Officer
Ryan Ryzner
Chief Advancement Strategy Officer
Ray Murphy
DESIGN
markey creative
PRINTING
Consolidated Printing Solutions
PHOTOGRAPHY
Neal Busch
Andrew Jordan
Marisa Martin Moses
Mark Most
Venditti Studios
A Return to the Garden
With Tudor Gardens restored, it is once again a vibrant gathering space for the Gilmour community, hosting everything from student retreats to the sold-out Party of the Century gala.
OUR HOLY CROSS MISSION IS THE FOUNDATION FROM WHICH WE EDUCATE THE MIND AND EMPOWER THE HEART OF EVERY GILMOUR STUDENT.
To develop the
competence
to see and the courage to act in creating a more humane and just society.
Led by Matt Lindley '89, Gilmour's Birding Club has
Living the Mission
LIFETIME BOND
Decades after graduating, Joe Ciuni ’77 continues to live out Gilmour's mission through service, leadership and a deep commitment to community - on campus and far beyond.
Joe Ciuni ’77 remains deeply connected to Gilmour long after his days as a student, embodying its mission through his career, coaching and service. From his early days at Gilmour to today, in his role as a civil engineer and dedicated community member, he continues to integrate the values instilled in him at the Academy.
Ciuni's journey to Gilmour was unexpected. Originally planning to attend Chanel High School, he was redirected by his parents, who had a friend sending their son to Gilmour. That decision shaped his life in ways he couldn’t have foreseen. He graduated in 1977, having formed lifelong friendships, including with the best man in his wedding, John Mino ’77. He went on to study engineering at Notre Dame, where he also played on and eventually captained the university’s first soccer team. His career took him to Chicago and New York before he returned to Cleveland to join his father’s engineering firm, Adache-Ciuni-Lynn Associates, which he merged with GPD Group in 2007.
Gilmour instilled in Ciuni an understanding of the importance of both camaraderie and respect that he carried into his professional life. He credits the school with teaching him how to treat people, value diverse opinions and have the courage to actlessons that serve him daily as a civil engineer and as the city engineer for five municipalities.
One of the most profound ways Ciuni has lived out Gilmour’s mission is through his commitment to the school’s annual mission trips to Nuevo Paraiso in Honduras. He was introduced to the program in 2002 by his beloved mentor, Tiho Teisl, and his dear friend, Dave Benacci, after they went to
Nuevo Paraiso through Gesu Parish. Ciuni went on Gilmour’s first trip there in March 2002 and returned 15 more times. He continues to support families there, and he and a friend have raised funds to repair homes in the village, many of which fell into disrepair during the pandemic when outside groups were unable to come. They hired a man they have come to know from the area near Nuevo Paraiso to oversee the construction, and they try to address two houses per year. Ciuni finds the mission trips life-changing for all the participants, who return with a new perspective on what truly brings happiness. Some of his most cherished memories include traveling with his own children and witnessing the strong friendships forged among the students.
As head coach of the girls soccer team from 2008-2015 and the boys team since then, Ciuni infuses his coaching philosophy with Gilmour’s values. He fosters a team environment based on mutual respect, teamwork and dedication. He believes that when players work together, they achieve more than they ever could individually. His greatest reward as a coach is seeing his players develop—not only from the beginning of a season to its end but across their entire high school careers.
Beyond coaching, Ciuni has served on Gilmour’s Board of Trustees since 1991. He has been a member of the Buildings and Grounds Committee since he joined the Board and chaired the committee for years. He has played a key role in significant campus improvements, including the construction of the Chapel, the new Howley Commons, and the installation of stadium lights.
When asked what advice he would give to current students about making a lasting impact, Ciuni emphasizes the importance of involvement. He encourages students to participate in activities, voice their opinions and embrace the friendships they form at Gilmour. Reflecting on the many weddings
he has attended over the years filled with Gilmour alumni, he sees firsthand how the Academy fosters lifelong bonds. To him, Gilmour is more than a school - it’s a family that continues to shape lives well beyond graduation.
Joe '77, Tom '06, Joe '03, Michael '08, Jane '04 and Mary Jo Ciuni after the 2016 GA girls soccer state championship (Joe '03 was the head coach)
Co-captains Joe Ciuni '77 (L) and Tim Sabransky '77 (R) with Coach Tiho Teisl.
Joe's 2024 varsity team
Tiho Teisl and Joe in Honduras
Joe with Sr. Rosa and his daughter, Jane '04, in Honduras
catching up with
CINDY CANDAU
For two decades, Cindy Candau was a beloved presence at Gilmour, shaping students’ lives as a Spanish teacher, department chair and mentor. From the moment she arrived in 2001 with her late husband Antonio, daughter Rosalie ’10 and son Frank, she embraced the school’s mission of educating both the heart and mind.
During her tenure, Cindy not only led her students in the classroom, but also facilitated cultural immersion through student trips to Spain, served as a Eucharistic minister and moderated CAUSE, a student group dedicated to service at St. Clair’s in downtown Cleveland. “Gilmour was always supportive of the things I wanted to do professionally,” she reflects. “They were generous with conferences and trusted us to do our jobs to the best of our ability.”
Her time at Gilmour was marked by many memorable experiences, but none were as personally transformative as the service trips to Honduras with longtime colleague Tiho Teisl. “I was honored to be invited to participate,” she says. “That trip changed Rosalie’s and my life and the way we see things.” Those moments of deep connection through travel, service and everyday interactions left a lasting impact.
Over the years, Cindy witnessed Gilmour’s evolution, from the construction of the new Kelley Middle School building to the Athletic Center and even the addition of screens in the chapel. Yet, what remained constant was the deep commitment of the faculty. “The people who teach at Gilmour really want to be there, and that’s important,” she says. “It enables teachers to extend themselves for their students and build truly rewarding relationships.”
Even after retiring in 2021, Cindy remains closely tied to the Gilmour community. Whether it’s running into former students while traveling, staying connected through social media, or hearing from former colleagues, she still feels a part of the school.
“At one time, my whole family was teaching and learning on campus in one way or another,” she recalls. “When Antonio passed, the faculty and staff were there for me. I don’t know how I would have continued on if I had been anywhere else.”
Today, Cindy splits her time between Cleveland and Texas, filling her days with reading, movies and travel. A retirement highlight was attending Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour in Madrid with Rosalie, and she has trips planned to Australia, Hawaii and Spain. “I recommend retirement to everyone!” she joked.
When asked what advice she would give to current and future Gilmour students and staff, her answer is simple: “Relax. Turn off your phone. Be present. Get to know the people around you and find out how you can be of service to them - then take that out into the world.”
For Cindy Candau, Gilmour was more than just a workplace; it was a family. And though her day-to-day life has taken her beyond the halls of GA, her heart remains firmly rooted in the community that supported her through it all.
“Relax. Turn off your phone. Be present. Get to know the people around you and find out how you can be of service to them - then take that out into the world.”
Señora Candau and students in Spain in 2012
Gilmour Seniors Make the Grade
Members of the Class of 2025 have been admitted to 20 of the Top 30 National Universities (per US News and World Report). All the more impressive is that these 20 acceptances came from nine different students. Be sure to check back for the full matriculation list in the next issue.
in TheIr space WITH THE PFUNDSTEINS
“We’ve celebrated everything here. Gilmour is truly our home away from home.”
If you’ve been on campus for more than five minutes, chances are you’ve heard the names David ’93 and Kim Pfundstein. This beloved (and hilarious) couple has been bringing their unique brand of energy, warmth and wit to the halls of Gilmour Academy for years (27 years for David and 12 for Kim) and they serve as a second set of parents for countless students. On any given school day, pop into either of their offices (which are just across the hall from each other) and chances are you’ll find a Gilmour student (or a young alum home on break) bending their ear.
And believe it or not, they both say they actually like working together every day! But don’t ask them to switch jobs. They agree: total disaster. Though given the chance to do any job on campus, Kim quickly offered that she’d like to drive the bus, just so she could play her playlists. Or be the moderator for a school dance troupe!
David Pfundstein - aka Papa Pfunreturned to his alma mater in 1998 after graduating from John Carroll, where he played basketball. He was hired as a first-grade teacher and the head varsity basketball coach. He coached for the next 20 seasons before stepping down in 2018 to spend more
time with his family. In the 27 years he’s been at Gilmour, he transitioned from a classroom teacher to a counselor to his current role as Dean of Students.
Kim Pfundstein - Mama Pfun - officially joined the team in 2013, after years of volunteering at the Lower School, where the pair’s children - David ’25 and Morgan ’27 - were enrolled. In the years since, she’s done everything from subbing to serving as the aide in the Montessori Toddler classroom to her current role as the ever-smiling, neverquiet Upper School Office Manager.
The pair arrive as most students’ alarms go off—between 6:30 and 7 a.m.—but if there’s even a whiff of snow in the forecast, David is up by 4 a.m., scanning the radar to help make the snow day call.
The “Mama and Papa Pfun” title came from a group of students about five years ago, and it stuck - because, honestly, what else do you call two people who show up to everything, support everyone and make Gilmour feel like home for students and faculty members alike?
They are on campus all the timemornings, nights, weekdays and even weekends. Asked if they’ve ever actually slept at Gilmour, they said no, but acknowledged that’s only because their house is so close. And if the school ever handed out faculty superlatives, Kim would proudly accept “Most Effervescent” (read: loud), while David would humbly take “Best Listener.”
The best excuse they’ve ever been given for a student missing school? A parent calling in on St. Patrick’s Day to say their child had to stay home… to do chores.
They’ll never forget when the basketball team - with their son, David, a freshman at the time - made it to the state championship game in Dayton in 2022. That was a special weekend for the whole family. Fun fact: Did you know David ’93 played on the last Gilmour team to play in a state title game before that 2022 game?
We had to know. Who’s the bigger disciplinarian at home? The Pfundsteins agreed. Kim lays down the law, while David does the listening. If they were issuing each other infractions at home, David says Kim’s would be “never cooking dinner.” David’s? Kim says he’d be written up for the small fortune he spends daily at True North gas station buying iced tea.
Why do they love Gilmour so much? Kim put it best: “We deeply believe in Gilmour's mission, and it has been incredible to see how it influences not only our professional lives, but also our personal lives. We got married here. Our kids were baptized here, made their First Communions here and have been students here since they were each 3 years old.” She added, “We’ve celebrated everything here. Gilmour is truly our home away from home.”
Whether they’re handing out hall passes, life advice or just a much-needed laugh, David and Kim Pfundstein are at the heart of Gilmour - and it’s hard to imagine the place without them.
RETURN TO THE GARDEN
Thanks to the generosity of The Howley Foundation, Tudor Gardens has been restored to its former glory. The extended Gilmour community, and our students, have loved having this new space. In the short months between its completion and the start of winter, the gorgeous garden was home to weddings, grade-level retreats, the Upper School’s Homecoming Dance and The Party of the Century benefit.
The sold-out benefit was brought to life by co-chairs Lorraine and Bill Dodero, Kerianne and Graham Hearns, and Corinne Dodero ’02 Salvador and Nick Salvador. The evening's Honorary Chairs were Nick and Lorie Howley. Attendees, which included parents from all three divisions, alumni ranging from the classes of 1951 to 2019, past parents and grandparents, and friends of Gilmour, were wowed by the beautiful backdrop Tudor Gardens provided. The Bluewater Kings Band had guests rocking all night and the live and silent auctions included trips to Arizona, the Isle of Palms and Kentucky; tickets to the Waste Management Open; sports baskets; Disney Park Hopper Passes; a beautiful pearl necklace; Taylor Swift tickets and more. The night netted more than $600,000 in proceeds, which have been directed toward the restoration of Tudor House.
With the return of the warmer weather, Tudor Gardens will once again welcome the Gilmour family in style, beginning with Reunion Weekend. The Friday night Welcome Home party, for alumni from all classes, will be held there on May 30. Be sure to visit gilmour.org/ reunion for all the weekend’s details and the registration link.
Then, on September 20, we will return to the garden for this year’s benefitA Night In the Garden. Be sure to mark your calendar as it promises to be another incredible evening!
To learn more, visit gilmour.org/stars.
Head of School Kathy Kenny addresses the crowd
Cocktail hour at the Party of the Century
One of the several table settings designed for the gala
Under the tent
Seventh-grade retreat
Sophomore Jamia Butler’27 addresses retreatants
Homecoming festivities
Honorary Chairs Nick and Lorie Howley; and Event Co-Chairs Lorraine and Bill Dodero, Kerianne and Graham Hearns, and Corinne Dodero '02 Salvador and Nick Salvador.
HOMECOMING 2024
Ever wondered what it would be like to soar through the sky or chat with a bird? We asked a few of the club members to let their imaginations take flight - here’s what they had to say!
If
you could be any bird for a day, which one would you choose?
Alex Chadwick ’25: Owl. I love owls.
Steven Ingram ’26: Bald eagle
Olivia Slocum ’27: Probably a peregrine falcon because they are the fastest bird on earth. I would like to jet through the sky like they do.
Jake Williams ’25: Ostrich
Mr. Lindley ’89: Peregrine falcon. They are so fast.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Habitat Forests
Food Insects
Similar in size to a Robin
A Red-bellied Woodpecker can stick out its tongue nearly 2 inches past the end of its beak.
Barred Owl
Habitat Forests
Indigo Bunting
Habitat Open Woodlands
Food Insects
Similar in size to a Sparrow Indigo Buntings migrate at night, using the stars for guidance. The birds possess an internal clock that enables them to continually adjust their angle of orientation to a star— even as that star moves through the night sky.
Food Mammals
Size is between a Crow and a Goose
The oldest recorded Barred Owl was at least 26 years, 7 months old.
If birds could talk, which species do you think would have the personality?funniest
Steven Ingram ’26: the chicken
Olivia Slocum ’27: I think an American crow would be the funniest. They are very intelligent and would probably have a great sense of humor and sarcasm because of it.
Jake Williams ’25: the toucan or the pelican Mr. Lindley ’89 : I think ducks would be pretty funny.
Robin-sized
Birds of a Feather
Belted Kingfisher
Habitat
Lakes and ponds
Food Fish
Similar in size to a Robin Pleistocene fossils of Belted Kingfishers (up to 600,000 years old) have been unearthed in Florida, Virginia, Tennessee, and Texas.
GILMOUR’S BIRDING CLUB SPREADS ITS WINGS
Gilmour Academy’s Birding Club is soaring to new heights under the leadership of government teacher and cross country coach Mr. Matt Lindley ’89. He was introduced to birdwatching by his mother at the age of 12, and he founded the club to share his passion for birdwatching and to offer students a break from their screens and an opportunity to get outside in the middle of the school day. The club meets weekly during Community Block.
Lindley shared, “I wanted to introduce students to birdwatching as a hobby because it opens your eyes to everything around you, allows you to clear your mind and focus on the little things. All your worries can go away when you’re out birdwatching.”
Students have embraced the experience, and the club has quickly grown to attract a diverse range of members. The club heads out for walks around Gilmour’s campus, where members have spotted 95 different species of birds thus far! The birds featured here are just a few of the species spotted on campus. The rarest? Albino geese spotted near the pond; the Lark Sparrow, which is not usually found in this area and must have been blown off course during migration; and the Blackpoll Warblers spotted on their way from South America to Canada. Club members noted that there is a clearing in the area between the athletic fields and the Lower School where the yard waste is deposited and it’s a hot spot for finding birds each week.
Green Heron
Habitat Marshes Food Fish
Similar in size to a Crow
The Green Heron is one of the world’s few tool-using bird species. It often creates fishing lures with bread crusts, insects and feathers, dropping them on the surface of the water to entice small fish.
In addition to their campus walks, members participate in citizen science projects such as the Christmas Bird Count and the Backyard Bird Count, helping track bird populations and migration patterns. The state is divided up into areas and each group is assigned one of them. Club members head out and track all the species they see. The results are sent to the Cornell Ornithology Lab and the Audubon Society to help them track data on the different species. Mr. Lindley noted that when they were doing the Christmas Bird Count around the North Chagrin Nature Center, they were the only ones in the whole census area to spot a Barred Owl.
Lindley is thrilled to see students developing a genuine appreciation for birdwatching and noted that many college campuses now have active birdwatching clubs. In fact, he recently heard from former club member Casie Crawford ’24, who shared that she is enjoying the club at Bowling Green, where she is a freshman.
With binoculars in hand and eyes on the skies, Gilmour’s Birdwatching Club is flourishing. Whether spotting a rare bird or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, members agree that sometimes the best
After being named National Merit Semifinalists in September, Ian Miller ’25 and Michael Wu ’25 applied for selection as National Merit Finalists.
To become a finalist, the semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, and write an essay.
After a review of their applications, Ian and Michael were notified that they have been named Finalists, a distinction earned by less than 1 percent of seniors nationally! Of the students named Finalists, approximately 7,500 will receive scholarship awards.
Fun Fact: Michael earned a perfect score on the ACT and Ian earned a perfect score on the PSAT!
TWO SENIORS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT FINALISTS
Entrepreneurship is about turning ideas into reality, and Leo Dunlevy ’22 , a sophomore at Belmont University, is doing just that. As a student in Belmont’s renowned entrepreneurship program, Leo is building the skills and connections he needs to grow his business, Dunlevy Productions, while preparing for a future of endless possibilities.
Leo began his college journey as a media production major but quickly transitioned to entrepreneurship to explore the operational side of running a business. His passion for entrepreneurship runs deep, influenced by a family legacy of entrepreneurs, including his father, aunt, uncle and grandfather. At Belmont, courses such as Business Finance, Venture Management and Federal Income Tax have provided him with valuable tools to refine his pricing strategies, improve client relations and scale his business.
“Taking courses such as Launchpad and Economics at Gilmour gave me a head start on building my business,” Leo shares. “Belmont’s program has been instrumental in supporting and marketing my work.”
One of Leo’s most rewarding college experiences has been creating athletic content for Belmont’s Division I sports teams. Building on his time producing athletic videos at Gilmour, this opportunity has allowed Leo to refine his craft and grow his brand in Nashville. “It’s been incredibly fulfilling to turn my passion
for videography into real-world opportunities,” he says. This work also opened doors for him in the real estate industry, where he’s producing high-end property videos.
Gilmour played a pivotal role in shaping Leo’s confidence and academic interests. Through leadership opportunities, class discussions and the support of faculty, especially Mr. Kilkenney and Mr. Most, Leo discovered his love for videography. “Mr. Kilkenney introduced me to video content creation, and Mr. Most encouraged me to experiment and lent me equipment to explore photography,” he recalls. “Their mentorship was a key factor in my college and career decisions.”
Balancing his college coursework, business responsibilities and personal life has been a significant challenge for Leo, but he credits Gilmour’s emphasis on discipline and adaptability for preparing him. “I entered Gilmour as a quiet freshman and graduated as a confident leader, ready to tackle anything,” he says. Time management, delegation and organization have become essential tools for managing overlapping deadlines and client projects.
Leo’s current work at Belmont includes preparing for an upcoming pitch competition, where he’ll present his business to a panel of judges. He’s also expanding Dunlevy Productions by growing his creative team and taking on larger projects, including luxury properties valued between $5 and $10 million.
Leo Dunlevy ’22
Looking ahead, Leo’s long-term goals include transforming Dunlevy Productions into a leading media company and entering the real estate investment industry.
For current students, Leo offers this advice: “Start now. Don’t wait for the perfect moment - just begin. Whether it’s starting a business or learning a new skill, taking action early is your biggest advantage.”
As Leo’s journey shows, combining passion, persistence and a willingness to grow can turn dreams into reality.
ACADEMIC CHALLENGE TEAM WINS IN A THRILLER
Congratulations to the Academic Challenge team - Ian Miller ’25, Vincent D’Angelo ’25 and Michael Wu ’25 (with Thomas Daly ’27 serving as an alternate) - who won their competition in thrilling fashion. The episode was filmed in January, and aired on March 8.
After being down to Copley High School, the team evened the score and then the lead went back and forth throughout the lighting round before GA pulled ahead by 5 points on the second-to-last question. St. Joseph Academy, who placed third, got the last question, preventing any comeback by Copley. The team’s final score was among the highest of the season, which qualified them for the season championship! The championship was happening at press time. Stay tuned for results!
Click the QR code to watch the episode. Only have a few minutes? Tune in at the 17:37 mark to watch the exciting ending - the Grab Bag Round.
JCU's Executive Director of Alumni Engagement Rory O'Neil with Kathy Kenny (photo credit: Andrew Jordan)
Congratulations Mrs. Kenny!
This fall, Head of School Kathy Kenny was honored with John Carroll University's highest honor, the Alumni Medal.
The annual award recognizes JCU alumni who have distinguished themselves through their professional accomplishments, community contributions, service to the university, and their family and personal life.
We can't think of a more deserving recipient!
We are so grateful for all you have done and continue to do to bring our mission to life at Gilmour for nearly five decades!
Lancers Lead the Way
Niche.com released their rankings and we have been named the #1 Catholic high school in Cleveland. The rankings look at everything from curricular options to college selection to class sizes, extracurriculars and teacher reviews. It’s a great time to be a Lancer!
Journeys
of DiscoveRY
During Fall Break, two groups of Gilmour students engaged in immersion experiences.
One group of six students and two faculty members embarked on a transformative journey to the homelands of the Wabanaki Federation, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Wabanaki people, particularly the Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes. Throughout their visit, students learned about the deep connections the Wabanaki share with the Earth, from ancient creation stories to their reverence for the land, mountains and waterways they’ve called home for millennia.
In addition to cultural immersion, students also confronted the harsh realities of the injustices faced by these indigenous communities. Their time spent in the wilderness, including hiking sacred Katahdin and navigating the upper Penobscot River, provided a deeper understanding of the Wabanaki’s symbiotic relationship with nature.
A second group of students and faculty took a meaningful journey to Oberlin, Ohio, one of the most significant stops on the Underground Railroad.
They explored Oberlin’s rich history through a heritage tour, learning about the town’s pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, its contributions to civil rights, and how it navigated the Reconstruction era all the way through the civil rights movement.
In addition to diving into history, students enjoyed a delicious meal at a farm-to-table restaurant, volunteered at a local food bank and even visited an art museum.
The group pauses for a photo in Maine
Some members of the group during a pit stop in Oberlin
Gilmour’s Entrepreneurship Program: Cultivating Innovation and Leadership
Gilmour Academy’s Entrepreneurship program is thriving under the leadership of Ms. Janet Kendall White. Since joining Gilmour in 2022 as the program’s instructor, Ms. Kendall White has brought a wealth of experience and insight, helping students develop the skills and mindset necessary to succeed in business and beyond. With a mission to equip organizations to meet current goals and prepare for the future, Ms. Kendall White has used this expertise to build a strong foundation for Gilmour’s Entrepreneurship program. One of her most impactful contributions has been fostering a successful partnership with the Veale Foundation, which led to the launch of Sip O’ Som, Gilmour’s student-run coffee shop.
Gilmour offers two semester-long courses as part of the entrepreneurship program - the Entrepreneurship class and the Venture class.
The entrepreneurship course is designed to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset, giving students the content knowledge and real-world experiences needed to develop critical thinking, problemsolving and collaboration skills. The second offering, Venture, takes learning a step further by allowing students to gain hands-on experience through student-run businesses. Students actively contribute to the ongoing operation and development of Sip O’ Som and The Armory, the Academy’s newest entrepreneurial Venture.
THE STORY BEHIND SIP O’ SOM
Sip O’ Som was founded in October 2022 by entrepreneurship students Jacob Lowery ’23 and Luke Radke ’23. Their hard work and dedication turned a simple idea into a beloved campus tradition. Each Wednesday during Community Block, students eagerly line up for their favorite drinks, a testament to the shop’s success.
Through Sip O’ Som, students have formed meaningful partnerships with local businesses such as Fig Leaf Coffee and Daisy Pops, offering high-quality products while gaining real-world business experience. The shop continues to be a driving force in the Entrepreneurship program, fostering collaboration, leadership and innovation among students.
INTRODUCING THE ARMORY
This semester, the Entrepreneurship program launched a new venture: The Armory, an on-demand spirit shop developed by Ms. White, Brody Phillipp ’26 and his Venture classmates. The Armory allows students to purchase gear and customize it with a Gilmour branded logo of their choice, with printing done on-site. This exciting addition showcases the creativity and initiative of Gilmour’s young entrepreneurs and adds another layer of real-world experience to the program.
With each passing year, Gilmour’s Entrepreneurship program continues to grow, offering students unparalleled opportunities to develop critical skills and bring their ideas to life. From coffee shops to customized apparel, the program’s impact is evident throughout campus, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Building Bots and Confidence: Robotics at the Lower School
At Gilmour Academy’s Lower School, robotics isn’t just about robots—it’s about building thinkers. Under the leadership of Mr. Kyle McMahon, students from kindergarten through sixth grade are learning far more than how to code or control machines.
“This class goes beyond technology,” McMahon explains. “It’s a space for kids to develop critical thinking. They learn how to try, fail and improve - and those are skills they’ll use forever.”
What makes Gilmour’s program stand out is how deeply it’s integrated with the core content areas. McMahon collaborates with classroom teachers to create projects that go hand-in-hand with the units they are covering in their classes. For example, when the fourth graders were doing a cross-curricular project in celebration of Shark Week, McMahon built on it and his students created 3D models of the sharks they were researching. When NatureBased Learning Coordinator Ms. Sanders had students working in the garden and they noticed a need for signage, McMahon and his sixth graders designed and printed signs for the garden. Another differentiator? Kids as young as kindergarten are getting an early start, learning basic coding and computer skills like typing and how to use a mouse.
Students stay engaged in robotics classes because fun and learning go hand in hand. “If they want to see their robot deliver a message or race through the library, they have to have
the base knowledge to write the code to make it happen,” McMahon says. It’s play with purpose.
The projects are as creative as they are educational. Third graders race robots from the computer lab and zigzag through the library, writing code to cut corners and speed up on the straightaways. Fourth graders created 3D-printed door signs for teachers, personalizing them using Google Drawing and a laser engraver. And fifth and sixth graders each designed their own game piece for the math class Monopoly Day, accessories for their potato athletes for the annual Potato Olympics and trophies for their Fantasy Football competition as well as Lower School Director Mr. Fowler’s schoolwide Trivia Contest.
But above all, McMahon hopes students leave his class with something even more valuable than tech skills and trophies: confidence and critical thinking skills. “I want them to know that it’s okay to fail. This is a safe space to take risks, learn from mistakes and make adjustments.”
More than just building robots, Lower School students are building skills - and mindsetsthat will serve them for life.
Recently, the Lower Schoolers put all this learning to a test heading to the Robotics ThrowDown competition. And they made quite a name for themselves there. The tournament featured two divisions - one for Grades 4-5 and one for Grades 6-8. Gilmour teams won both divisions and in the Grades 6-8 division, they took first, second and fourth place!
GA receives the Holy Cross Charism Initiative Leader Award
Earlier this fall, Gilmour Academy was honored to receive the Holy Cross Charism Initiative Leader Award from Dr. Richard Bautch, Executive Director of the Holy Cross Institute at St. Edward’s University. The award recognizes Gilmour for its exceptional commitment to the Holy Cross mission and its dedication to fostering mission integration throughout the school community. Dr Bautch shared, “We celebrate Gilmour Academy’s leadership, its dedication to mission, and its role as an exemplar for all our Holy Cross schools.”
JUNIOR WINS NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY AWARD
Congratulations are in order! Earlier this winter, we received word that Javi Swinarski ’26 had been named a recipient of the 2025 William R. Simms Award for Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).
This national award recognizes service by individuals between 10 and 18 years old who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their community through philanthropy by raising financial support, developing charitable programs, volunteering and/or showing leadership in philanthropy. Javi has run his sock drive on campus every year since fourth grade, and has also worked tirelessly to ensure that his efforts will continue after his years on campus. He has been training Megan Flaherty ’30 throughout this year so that she can seamlessly take over when he graduates.
GA Named One of America's Healthiest Schools
Gilmour has again been named one of "America's Healthiest Schools" by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. We were recognized among schools nationally for programming excellence in the categories of "Strengthening Social Emotional Health and Learning" and "Cultivating Staff Well-Being."
Javi was selected earlier this fall for the AFP Cleveland Youth in Philanthropy Award. Javi and his family traveled to Seattle for the national awards presentation later this spring.
What a fitting honor for so many years of tireless dedication on behalf of the homeless!
A Tradition of Giving
In a time-honored tradition, the sixth graders served a Thanksgiving lunch to guests from the Fatima Family Center just days before the holiday. Additionally, the entire Gilmour community came together in support of the 2024 Br. Richard Keller Thanksgiving Food Drive, with baskets delivered the day before Thanksgiving. It was an incredible success, thanks to the generosity and dedication of our Gilmour community!
Together, we:
• Filled 329 baskets and a vanload of extra food for neighbors in need
• Engaged 900+ students, faculty and staff from every division and department to pack baskets
• Delivered baskets with the help of 250 volunteers on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving
• Contributed more than 150 student service hours
• Received more than 100 donations from members of the GA family across the country to fund turkeys, milk, potatoes, and bread
• Involved volunteers ranging in age from 2 to 80+ years, including firsttimers all the way to 31-year Thanksgiving Food Drive veterans.
Together, we truly lived out Gilmour’s Mission, uniting as one GA family to create a more humane and just society. Thank you to everyone who contributed!
Anastastia
Center Stage: Gilmour’s Performing Arts Shine With Spectacular Shows
The Lorraine and Bill Dodero Center for Performing Arts remains a hub of activity on campus. It was home to two incredible shows already this year, with the third opening just after press time.
This fall, the Drama Club presented Anastasia, and it was a fantastic production filled with talented singers, dancers and actors.
This year’s Middle School musical was Disney's Aristocats Kids and the group did a phenomenal job. The young performers brought the beloved Disney classic to life with vibrant energy, catchy songs and plenty of memorable moments on stage.
Stay tuned for coverage of the final show of the year - Hadestown Teen Edition!
Aristocats
A BOOK REVIEW BY HENRY WICKHAM ’68
A Notre Dame Man; The Life, Lore, and Runs of Eric Penick
By
Eric Penick ’71 and Stephen Alexander
Forward by Dave Casper
"Sweet are the uses of adversity." So says Duke Senior in Shakespeare's As You Like It. Gilmour Academy's Eric Penick certainly knows the truth of this observation.
In our English class senior year, I remember well the explanation of Shakespeare's point made by William G. Moore ’51, our most memorable teacher. He explained to us that we develop and learn the least when we swim only at the surface of life, and where everything is familiar and comfortable. It is the inevitable difficulties and challenges that we overcome that are the most important. There is little coddling and there are few "trigger warnings" in the real world as any good teacher would tell us.
I was a senior at Gilmour when I met Eric Penick. I remember him as smart and affable, one of those people that we couldn't help but like. His nascent athletic talents were obvious after his track performances that spring.
Eric's book recounts his many athletic accomplishments. He is one of the few in Ohio who has single-handedly won a state high school track championship for his school. He had a great football career at Gilmour and was recruited by all of the most successful football programs. He wound up at Notre Dame, and as he had done at Gilmour, he did well there academically.
In 1973 he had that great 85-yard touchdown run against archrival Southern California. All die-hard Notre Dame fans of a certain era remember that run, and it was even mentioned in the movie, Rudy
There was that national championship game against Alabama where he played well and Notre Dame won. An NFL career seemed inevitable.
Then came the adversity; from the peaks to the valley as Eric describes it. Injuries kept him from that NFL career. He movingly describes the difficulties adjusting to the workaday world after football.
Ingrained character and habits count. One senses that a part of his ultimate success is a product of what he experienced at Gilmour and Notre Dame. They, along with his family, provided the foundation for where his life is now. I suspect that Eric will always be grateful for what Gilmour was, as I certainly am.
Despite the book's title, I also suspect that he will always be a Gilmour man. All's well that ends well, as Shakespeare reminds us.
At press time, we received word of Eric Penick's passing. He certainly left his mark at Gilmour, at Notre Dame and beyond.
Scan this QR code read a tribute written by Stephen Alexander, who co-wrote Eric's autobiography with him.
Scan this QR code to see a video of Eric singlehandedly winning the Ohio state track championship for Gilmour in 1971.
Scan this QR code to see his 85-yard run against USC in 1973.
2010
Congratulations to Maureen Kenny and Brendan Brown, who were married on September 14. The wedding was held in Our Lady Chapel with a reception following in Tudor Gardens.
2012
Nate Klein met with the Digital News Production classes to share insights from his impressive career journey. Currently a Senior Producer for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Nate gave students a firsthand look at his latest projects and offered valuable advice on breaking into the industry … Connor Moriarty’s dad shared that he is married and has a 3-year-old daughter. He and his family live in Shaker Heights. Connor is a product photographer for Joann Fabrics, and also has his own commercial photo studio, Elysian Studios, located in Solon.
2013
Congratulations to Desiree Lytle, who got married on May 19, 2024 in Cleveland.
2014
Congratulations to Patricia Colella, who was named to Crain's “20 in their 20s” list for her work as a Lead Innovation Strategist at University Hospitals Ventures.
2017
Nikhil Nair reports that he will graduate from medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in May and will be completing his residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at MetroHealth in Cleveland.
2019
Ani Fitzgerald and her Boston University team won the Hockey East championship.
2020
Three classmates have had impressive hockey seasons with their college teams. Justin Evans and his University of Tampa hockey team won the AAU national championship. Jesse Galassi plays for Curry College, which won the CNE championship and the #1 seed in the NCAA Division III championship. And Dominic Schimizzi and his Hobart hockey team won the NEHC championship.
2021
Congratulations to Quinn Hartmetz , who was named to the All-Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Team. Quinn is a member of the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire women’s hockey team, and led the team with 24 points this season.
2022
Congratulations to Arianna DiMenna, who recently received the Chen Ya and Siuha Anita Liu Award for Professional Writing, which is awarded to an Ohio State University student who is majoring in a STEM field while pursuing a minor in professional writing. Arianna is a mechanical engineering major.
A REFLECTION BY NICHOLAS HAYSLIP ’ 24
When I first stepped foot on Gilmour Academy's campus during the pandemic, I could have never imagined how much those four years would shape my life. Masks and social distancing made it hard to feel connected, and I didn’t know the campus nor the people who would become so important to me. But one day during orientation, something happened that I now look back on as the start of something special.
After a day of meeting new faces and exploring the school, I found myself walking down to Figgie Field with a group of guys I’d just met: Andy ’24 and Jake ’24 Kavcic, Jack Markowski ’24, Mason Hice ’24 and Kevin Flaherty ’24 to name a few. Half-joking, I said, "You guys don’t know it yet, but I think we’re going to be good friends." Kevin Flaherty turned to me with a skeptical but amused expressionprobably wondering, "Who is this kid, and what on Earth is he saying?"
Fast forward four years, and Kevin and I are now roommates at The Ohio State University. That offhand comment during freshman year? It turned out to be more accurate than I ever could have guessed. From late-night study sessions to cheering on the Buckeyes, it’s been a journey full of hard work, laughter and moments that truly define fellowship.
During our time at Ohio State, we’ve also had the chance to reconnect with other Gilmour alumni, including Nicci Finazzo ’24, Katie Puletti ’24, Andrew Minder ’24, Liam Colaluca ’24, JP Loeser ’24, Deaglan Bryant ’23 and Nathan Flaherty ’22, to name a few. Whether it’s cheering on the Buckeyes at football games or just reminiscing about our time at GA, these moments remind me how strong and enduring the Gilmour community is.
One small but meaningful piece of Gilmour that I keep with me is a GA mug I received while working on the Student Activities Board. It’s a simple reminder of where I came from and how those experiences continue to shape me today. Every time I see it, whether studying for finals or simply making a cup of coffee, I’m reminded of the values and friendships that have carried me through so much.
From that first uncertain day at Gilmour to being roommates with Kevin at Ohio State, this journey has been about connection, growth and the unexpected ways life brings us together. Here’s to the friendships that started as lighthearted jokes and grew into something extraordinary. Here’s to Gilmour and the lifelong family it gave me.
Nicholas and Kevin are sophomores at OSU. Nicholas is studying in the Fisher College of Business, pursuing a degree in business administration with a specialization in international business. Kevin is studying in the College of Arts and Sciences, pursuing a degree in communication with a specialization in media technologies.
IN FOCUS
Dr. Tom Ferrara ’56 has led a remarkable life marked by pivotal decisions, a passion for medicine and a commitment to service. His journey, filled with unexpected turns and valuable lessons, offers a compelling narrative of passion and openness to change.
Following his graduation from Gilmour, Dr. Ferrara initially entered the Catholic Seminary in Baltimore. However, after only a month, he realized this path was not for him. This early turning point led him to Georgetown University, with the help of his father, where he pursued pre-med studies and later attended medical school.
In his second year of medical school, a formative experience significantly altered his career trajectory. Dr. Ferrara had secured a position at St. Vincent Charity Hospital in Cleveland, where he worked alongside surgery residents. This experience revealed two crucial things: his affinity for surgery and his aptitude for it. But, later, after returning to Georgetown, he was given an unexpected opportunity. "The doctor I was working with asked me to scrub in on a patient that was going to have a baby. I had never seen a baby, let alone a delivery, but the doctor allowed me to deliver the baby. At that moment, I decided that's what I'm going to do for the rest of my life," he recalled.
This revelation marked the beginning of a lifelong passion. Dr. Ferrara completed his internship and residency at Indiana University. After serving in the army for two years, he returned to Indianapolis, where he practiced for approximately 35 years. During this time, he taught and established a care center, ensuring that pregnant patients, regardless of their insurance status, received the care they needed.
Even after a hospital restructuring led to the elimination of his job, Dr. Ferrara continued to pursue his passion. He became a laborist at Terre Haute Regional Hospital, where he currently works eight 24-hour shifts per month. In this role, he delivers babies and cares for pregnant women who
come to the emergency room, ensuring they receive the best possible care. “As long as I'm doing a good job and having a good time, I'm going to keep delivering babies,” he said.
Gilmour Academy played a significant role in shaping Dr. Ferrara's character and values. John Gale, his Latin and English teacher, served as a mentor. “He changed me 180 degrees: taught me that I could think, taught me that I could make decisions, taught me how to make those decisions, and then taught me how to defend them," Dr. Ferrara said. Encounters with other figures, like Brother Ivo and Brother Albertus, presented challenges and imparted important life lessons. Brother Albertus, for example, taught him that ‘Life ain't fair. Live with it.’”
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Ferrara has pursued a variety of personal interests. He earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, became an advanced open water scuba diver and is a competitive ballroom dancer. He also cherishes his role as a dedicated father.
Dr. Ferrara maintains connections with the Gilmour community, primarily through Facebook. He fondly remembers past reunions with classmates and the unique traditions of Gilmour. "I couldn't be happier with the education I got at Gilmour, with the opportunities that it opened up. I learned how to learn and that's what I was really, really happy for," he said.
His advice to current Gilmour students and young alumni is to take full advantage of the opportunities Gilmour offers. "Take advantage of every opportunity they give you. Do whatever you can, whatever suits you and make sure it suits you, and then go ahead and dig into it. But, above all, be honest, be fair and do your best."
Alumni
Tom Ferrara ’56
Dr. Peter Bonutti’s ’74 journey is one of relentless curiosity, bold innovation and an unshakable drive to push boundaries. At Gilmour, he wasn’t just an exceptional student - he was a trailblazer, graduating as a junior at only 16 years old. But for him, Gilmour was more than a place of academic achievement; it was a community that embraced and shaped him. “At Gilmour, they were always open. They let me participate in sports, even though I wasn’t the biggest guy. I remember them finding a way to get me on the baseball team despite my small size at the time.” This early sense of belonging and support, from both faculty and classmates like Chuck Pap ’74, helped build the confidence that would propel him forward.
From Gilmour, Dr. Bonutti secured a full scholarship to the University of Chicago, completing his undergraduate degree by age 20. What followed was a career defined by persistence, innovation and a refusal to accept limitswhether imposed by others or by the status quo in medicine. “I was told I’d never get to medical school; I did. Then, I was told that I’d never be an orthopedic surgeon; I was. Just because somebody says you can't do it, doesn’t mean you shouldn't do it. If you believe in it, you should follow through - you have to be persistent.”
Undeterred by doubt, Dr. Bonutti completed his orthopedic surgery residency and several fellowships at the Cleveland Clinic, where he was influenced by Art Steffee, whom he calls “one of the most influential orthopedic surgeons of all time.” He recalls, “Art really single-handedly revolutionized spine surgery. I watched him make screws and plates in the lab, figure out how to design them, test them and put them in patients.”
Steffee’s impact on the field continues today, and, in a full-circle moment, Steffee’s granddaughter, Abigail
Steffee ’24 graduated from Gilmour last year and his grandson, Dawson Steffee ’25, will graduate in May.
Despite receiving advice to “listen and learn and keep your mouth shut,” Dr. Bonutti pursued his own research, particularly on cyanoacrylates - derivatives of superglue - and won numerous awards. In 1989, after completing his fellowships, he turned down offers from prestigious academic centers and instead bought a research facility in Effingham, Illinois. He reinvested earnings from his medical practice into research and development, eventually specializing in knee replacement surgery. Today, patients from six countries and 42 states travel to Effingham to receive care from him. His mission remains clear: “Every day, I try to improve the quality of carethinking from the patient's perspective and how to make it better.”
With more than 500 patents and 700 licenses for medical products and technologies, Dr. Bonutti continues to innovate. He remains connected to the Cleveland Clinic, where he endows a chair and contributes to research in neuromodulation technology. His current work focuses on breaching the blood-brain barrier to deliver pharmaceuticals for central nervous system disorders.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Bonutti is a father of six. His passions include sports, fitness, and environmental issues such as oceanfront and beach preservation. To current Gilmour students, he offers this advice: “If you really want to improve things, you need to document your thoughts - learn to write, learn to put ideas into a cogent format. If it’s not on paper, it never really existed.” Above all, he emphasizes one final maxim: “Without family, none of that stuff matters.”
FOCUS
Alumni IN
Peter Bonutti ’74
IN FOCUS
Megan Schmidt-Sane ’05
Megan Schmidt-Sane ’05 has dedicated her career to confronting critical global health challenges from an anthropological perspective. From her formative experiences at Gilmour to her current position at the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex in the UK, Megan's journey exemplifies a commitment to service, intellectual curiosity and a deep understanding of the human experience.
At Gilmour, Megan's intellectual foundation was shaped by rigorous coursework and a broad exposure to different perspectives. "The literature courses at Gilmour were very important to me. Reading and being exposed to different viewpoints and ways of life was foundational to my interest in anthropology," she reflects. Her passion for the field was ignited through Gilmour's Catalyst program, where she worked in the anthropology department at Case Western Reserve University on a project examining Native American healing practices.
After graduating, Megan studied international affairs and economics at George Washington University, gaining policy experience through internships in Congress. Following graduation in 2008, she pursued global experiences, working on public health initiatives in urban India through a Rotary ambassadorial fellowship and teaching English in rural Vietnam on a Fulbright fellowship.
She later earned a master's in public health at Columbia University, developing expertise in epidemiology and community- based health strategies. During a six-month practicum in Uganda, she worked on HIV outreach and prevention programs, deepening her understanding of health inequities. "In public health, the goal is to reduce infections, but as anthropologists, we ask how it affects people's lives beyond just health. I like being the anthropologist in the room to bring that perspective," she says.
In 2015, Megan began her Ph.D. in medical anthropology at Case Western Reserve University, focusing on the political and economic drivers of HIV among young men in urban Kampala, Uganda. She conducted in-depth interviews and participant observation, gaining insight into the lived experiences of those affected. While in Uganda, she also contributed to UNICEF's research on Ebola preparedness, marking the beginning of her focus on health emergencies.
Completing her Ph.D. in 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Megan quickly transitioned to a postdoctoral fellowship at the Institute of Development Studies, where she provided technical guidance on COVID-19 prevention. Today, she specializes in public health emergencies and urban health equity, addressing emerging outbreaks and the effects of climate change on health. Her international career has taken her to dozens of countries across the globe.
Beyond her professional work, Megan remains deeply committed to community and service. "The values of understanding community and taking care of each other in an expansive way that were taught at Gilmour have stuck with me. They always said that service should be about more than yourself, and that's shaped my career," she says. She encourages young people and alumni to think globally and embrace curiosity: "Our world is much bigger than it was, and we’re all interconnected. It’s important for all of us to be a little bit of an anthropologist - learning from other people, cultures and places with humility."
Morgan Mills Converse ’11 has built a career marked by embracing change, continuous learning and a commitment to making a positive impact. From her early days as an engineering student to her current role as CEO of Hurricane Labs, Converse's journey exemplifies the values of lifelong education and leadership instilled during her time at Gilmour.
After graduating, she attended Cornell University, majoring in civil and systems engineering. As a woman in a maledominated field, she initially felt intimidated, but quickly learned to embrace challenges as fuel for growth. This mindset, along with her philosophy of "just focusing on putting in the hard work that precedes any outcomes," has defined her career trajectory.
Converse began her career in management consulting, starting with civil engineering projects and transitioning to software engineering.
“Those early transitions eliminated my fear of diving into a new field, but I felt like I wanted to fully build out and execute a strategy, and consulting inhibited that desire.”
Seeking to drive strategy, she pursued chief of staff roles, eventually becoming CEO of Hurricane Labs, a cybersecurity firm, on February 14, 2024. She acknowledges that "leading a company into this AI-enhanced world requires very strong empathetic leadership" and a renewed focus on "doing old-fashioned things really well - doing what you say you're going to do, looking people in the eye, holding the door, being kind."
Her time at Gilmour played a key role in shaping her perspective, particularly the influence of her freshman religion teacher, Mrs. Daly. "She just completely reframed how I approach my life now and how I live the tenets of lifelong education," Converse reflects. "She told me at a Self- Assessment that she thought I could be doing better, and she really set the stage for a life of curiosity and lifelong learning."
Beyond her professional achievements, Converse values presence and kindness in everyday life. "My motto is really just to approach everything with intent and enthusiasm - whether it's building a strategic plan, responding to emails, dealing with daily life, or
hitting a shot on the tennis courtjust being fully present and enthusiastic about the moment that I'm in."
For current students and recent alumni, she emphasizes the importance of taking action. "What keeps me up at night is never what I did, but what I hesitated to dowhether it's moving on from a low performer, meeting someone for coffee, or simply sending an email. Acting decisively, even if it means asking for forgiveness later, has always opened doors or helped me grow." She also encourages young professionals to "be brave in discomfort, fully lean into the present and the role that you're in, try to exceed expectations, and trust that whatever the universe has in store for you, it will fully work out. You can't control what happens to you, but you can control how you react to it and what you learn from it."
IN FOCUS
Alumni
Morgan Mills
Converse ’11
Morgan with her son and husband, Mac Converse '09
L A N C E R S O A K I E S
FRIDAY MAY 30
CLASSES ENDING IN 5 AND 0
SATURDAY MAY 31
Did You Know?
During the school year, the first Monday of every month, the Men’s Club hosts a free Networking Breakfast at 8 a.m. The event is open to all men and women in the Gilmour community and features a guest speaker from the Gilmour community each month. This year’s speakers have shared their experiences as authors and leaders of companies in industries
ranging from health and wellness to transportation and logistics to commercial real estate to hospitality.
Each breakfast provides new insight and the chance to network with other members of the Gilmour community.
Mark your calendars for the first Monday of each month during the school year at 8 a.m. We hope you’ll join us!
April networking breakfast with guest speaker Jim Rooney '86.
“Mermaid Fountain” Returns to Tudor Gardens
In July of 1946, just weeks before Gilmour opened for its first school year, The Catholic Universe Bulletin published an article on the history behind the historic home of this new school. A photo accompanying the article shows a young Br. Theophane Schmitt, C.S.C. pointing to a stone alcove in Tudor Garden. Next to the alcove recess is a bronze sculpture of a mermaid, removed to make way for a more suitable statue of Mary. The caption for the photo read “Bronze Diana will be melted to make Stations of Cross.”
Wrong on two counts, the statue neither depicted a Greek Goddess, nor, thankfully, was it melted down.
In 1917, wealthy industrialist Francis E. Drury commissioned American artist Robert Aitken to create the piece for the gardens he planned to build across from his Euclid Avenue mansion.
While the gardens were still under construction, Drury loaned this new acquisition, “Mermaid Fountain,” to the Cleveland Museum of Art. Once the gardens were complete, the mermaid was returned to Drury and she remained in the Euclid Avenue garden until the couple’s Tudor-style mansion in Gates Mills was completed in 1924. The mermaid found a new home in a stone niche in the Drurys’ formal garden.
The Drurys moved out in 1926, and for the next two decades, the garden and house were left undisturbed until the Brothers of Holy Cross purchased the property in 1945 for their new private boys schoolGilmour Academy. The mermaid was moved from her place of honor and her history for the next 40 years is a little murky.
What is known is that for a period of time the statue was in the possession of Hal Thielen, a religion, French and music appreciation teacher from 1956-1960, who returned to serve as Dean of Students from 1971-1977. When he left in 1977, he returned the mermaid to her home at Gilmour and she was placed overlooking the courtyard between Tudor House and The Commons. There she would remain, keeping watch over generations of Gilmour students, until construction of the new Howley Commons forced her to seek refuge in The Cottage.
Fortunately, her journey does not end there. In 2024, with the renovation of Tudor Gardens complete, Aitken’s “Mermaid Fountain” returned home, a century after she was first installed, no longer a working fountain, but still a work of art worthy of her location.
Mrs. Drury with "Mermaid Fountain" in her garden
LANCER ATHLETICS 2024-2025
Fast Track to Victory: Lancers Shine with State
Title and Podium Finishes at Indoor Championship
The Lancer Indoor Track & Field team delivered outstanding performances at the OATCCC Indoor State Championship, earning multiple podium finishes, personal records and a state title.
Lars Broberg ’25 captured the state championship in the 200m with a time of 22.22. He also secured fifth place in the 400m, finishing in 50.10.
Rielyn Jackson ’25 had an impressive meet, earning third place in the 200m with a personal best of 25.47 and fifth place in the 60m finals after running a 7.92 PR in prelims.
The 4x200 relay team of Rielyn Jackson ’25, Abby Detzel ’25, Abbey Steiner ’27 and Lily Detzel ’27 ran a two-second PR to place third in the state with a time of 1:45.85.
Abby Detzel ’25 also recorded a two-second PR in the 400m, finishing in 60.53 to take seventh place.
The 4x400 relay team of Abby Detzel ’25, Lily Detzel ’27, Abbey Steiner ’27 and Rielyn Jackson ’25 raced to a time of 4:05.5, earning the silver medal.
Congratulations to all our Lancer athletes on an incredible showing at the state meet.
State Champion Lars Broberg '25
SIGN I NGS
NCAA signing ceremonies for the class of 2025 took place on NOVEMBER 11, DECEMBER 4 & FEBRUARY 5. Twelve student-athletes pledged their commitment to continue their athletic careers beyond high school.
Congratulations to these student athletes highlighted to the right with their sport and their school.
There was a final signing ceremony held right at press time, when an additional 22 students pledged their commitment. Stay tuned for details in the next issue.
NOVEMBER
11
DECEMBER
4
FEBRUARY 5
Natalie Andelova ’25 hockey at Division I Union College
Sean Dillard ’25 football at Division II Walsh University
Nick Iliano ’25 football at Division II Walsh University
Cooper Panteck ’25 football at Division I Robert Morris University
Brie Habeeb ’25 volleyball at Division I Youngstown State University
Addison Wagner '25 hockey at Division I Sacred Heart University
Elaina KlineRuminski ’25 basketball at Division II Walsh University
Aubrey Anders ’25 volleyball at Division I Colgate University
Mi-Na Diggs ’25 volleyball at Division I Villanova University
Brody Lennon ’25 football at Division I The Ohio State University
Kayla Channell ’25 volleyball at Division I Coastal Carolina University
Cara Riley ’25 volleyball at Division II Walsh University
DIVISION II VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPIONS
Lancers Strike Gold: Girls Volleyball Claims Fourth State Title in Thrilling Final Four Run
The girls varsity volleyball team had another incredible season, making their sixth-consecutive appearance in the OHSAA Final Four, where they brought home the Division II state title!
The Lancers took down St. Ursula Academy in four sets in the semifinal match before going head-to-head with Ursuline Academy, winning in a thrilling four-set match (25-20, 25-22, 28-30, 25-22) to secure the 2024 Division II state championship.
This is the program’s fourth state title since 2008 in addition to an impressive seven state runner-up titles in that time!
Three players received All-Ohio accolades after the season:
Aubrey Anders ’25 - All-Ohio First Team
Ella Jackson ’25 - All-Ohio First Team
Marlie Davis ’25 - All-Ohio Third Team
STATE CHAMPS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
In celebration of their state championships, the girls doubles team and the volleyball team were invited to appear on Fox 8 News! Scan the QR code to watch the clip!
PASSING THE TORCH
Danny Coughlin has served as the head varsity volleyball coach since 2015, after serving as the assistant under his brother, Kelly, for two years. In that time, he has amassed a record of 214-61, which includes an incredible four state championships (2015, 2020, 2021, 2024) and four state runner-up titles (2013, 2014, 2022, 2023).
This season was Coach Coughlin’s 30th year of coaching and, after securing the state championship, he made the decision to step down from his position in order to spend more time with his family, especially with his daughter starting a college swimming career and his son starting high school football in the fall. He said he looks forward to being a dad and sitting in the stands and really focusing on his job as the director of logistics/EMS for Lifecare Ambulance.
He shared that he will miss the amazing Gilmour community of staff and students. “I’ve met some incredible people in my time here and have built friendships that will last forever. It’s been an amazing place to work.”
Asked what his final piece of advice for his players would be, Coach Coughlin said, “Continuously evolve! Always stay a sponge in sports and life. Gilmour has done a great job of teaching you how to be a well-rounded young person and it’s important you utilize all your teachings from the classroom along with your work habits, practice habits and how you compete.”
Thank you, Coach Coughlin for the 12 years of loyal service to the Lancer volleyball program.
It was announced in January that former assistant coach Phil Margevicius will take over as head coach of the Gilmour volleyball program.
SISTER ACT: KLIKA DUO DAZZLES ON NCAA’S BIGGEST STAGE FOR SECOND STRAIGHT YEAR
It’s not often that a family has two daughters competing in an NCAA tournament at the same time … much less in back-to-back years! For the second year in a row, Emmy ’21 and Laney ’23 Klika were dancing! At Pitt, Emmy and her team earned the No. 1 overall NCAA Tournament seed and the ACC Championship, while Laney helped Wofford to their second straight Southern Conference Championship and a spot in the tournament.
In the tournament, Wofford lost in the first round in three sets to No. 4-seeded Baylor. Laney was described as the anchor of their defense and improved to second on Wofford’s single-season digs leaderboard with 615. Wofford put forth its best season in program history.
Pitt lost 3-1 in a Final Four matchup against rival Louisville. Pitt’s defense was ranked No. 1 in the country and Emmy started all 35 games as the libero. She registered a season-best 21 digs in the national semifinal game, and added five assists as well.
In April, Emmy was signed by the Orlando Valkyries of the Pro Volleyball league, becoming the second female athlete in Gilmour history to sign with a professional sports team.
Two sisters. Two programs. One unforgettable family legacy.
GRIDIRON GREATNESS: LANCER FOOTBALL MAKES HISTORY
Congratulations to the football team, which advanced to the regional finals, had the most wins in school history, and made it the furthest a GA football team has ever gone!
After the season, the following players received All-Ohio honors:
Brody Lennon ’25 - All-Ohio First Team
Cooper Panteck ’25 - All-Ohio Second Team
Sean Dillard ’25 - All-Ohio Third Team
GIRLS TENNIS WINS DOUBLES STATE CHAMPIONSHIP AND TEAM RUNNER-UP!
The girls tennis team competed at the state tournament the weekend of October 18-19 and certainly made a name for themselves. On Friday, October 18, Grier Peckham ’28 and Caroline Koch ’28 won the Division II doubles state championship, defeating a doubles team from Cincinnati’s Indian Hills 6-4, 6-1!
Then, on Saturday, October 19, the team competed as a whole and defeated Columbus Academy in the semifinals to advance to the state championship. The team fell to Indian Hills in the finals, finishing the season as the Division II state runner-up! Congratulations to team members Abigail Lynch ’27, Caroline Koch ’28, Grier Peckham ’28, Quinn Doyle ’25, Gianna Francisco ’26, Katherine Frawley ’25, Natalie Andelova ’25, Sophia Haas ’26 and Scarlett Greer ’27!
Additionally, after the season wrapped, three team members earned All-Ohio accolades!
State Champions
Caroline Koch '28 and Grier Peckham '28
Caroline Koch ’28 - All-Ohio First Team
Grier Peckham ’28 - All-Ohio First Team
Abigail Lynch ’27 - All-Ohio Second Team
In Memoriam
This list includes all alumni and family members of alumni and faculty/staff who passed away before April 19, 2025.
Gilmour Academy expresses sympathy to the families of the following alumni:
Constance Zagara Bryan-Lawrence G.O. ’73
Thomas Champion, Jr. ’56
Dr. David DeLaney ’81
Michon Shenk Haymer ’96
Robert Hillis ’71, brother of Deborah Hillis G.O. ’73
Kevin Killeen ’57, brother of Edward ’54 (deceased), Eugene ’55 (deceased) and Dennis ’60 Killeen
Michael J. Kuckelman ’57
Lewis Lanza ’57, brother of Arnold ’53 and Joseph ’58 (deceased) Lanza
Chuck McClenathan ’65
Jack McLeod ’54, father of John McLeod ’85; brother of Norm ’50 (deceased) and William ’60 McLeod; uncle of Michael ’75 and John ’77 McLeod; great-uncle of Annmarie, Edward ’21, James ’21 and Sebastian ’24 FitzGerald
Eric Penick ’71, uncle of Antoine Phillips ’05 and Asa Phillips ’30
Edward Rogers, Jr. ’68
In addition, we extend our sympathy to the members of our Gilmour community who lost the following loved ones:
Olga Allen, mother of Ronald Allen ’88
Barbara Amato, grandmother of Margot Reid ’17; mother-in-law of John Reid III ’76
Thomas Ashley, Jr., son of Tom Ashley ’60
Paul Berger, grandfather of Holy Cross Director of Sponsorship and Mission Integration and former Gilmour Upper School Director Tymothy Tagliaferro
Kathleen Boland, sister of Richard ’63 and Maureen GO ’73 Boland; aunt of Mary Grace Krapf ’15
Betty Botti, mother of Bradley ’74 (deceased) and Timothy ’80 Bickett
Thomas Brunn, father of Thomas Brunn ’82
Gail Buckland, mother of Lower School instructor Brittany Hedrick
Holly Burke, mother of Hannah ’10 and Nathaniel ’10 Burke; mother-in-law of Alexandra Haynes ’09
Andrew Carran, father-in-law of Dennis Kavran ’86
Alice Channell, grandmother of Kayla Channell ’25
Beverly Cox, grandmother of Zachary Cox ’26
Keith Craigo, brother of Upper School instructor Jason Craigo
Joyce Cygan, grandmother of Bryce Beard ’25
Patti Coreno, aunt of Maggie ’21, Ellie ’24, Annie ’26 and Joe ’28 Goff
Alexandra D’Amato, daughter of former AVI employee, Audrey D’Amato
Richard DeBacco, father of Michelle DeBacco Chiacchiari ’96 and Richard DeBacco ’99; father-in-law of Mark Chiacchiari ’94; and grandfather of Aurelia ’28 and Olivia ’30 Chiacchiari
Wilma Dela Vega, mother of Christian ’91 and Hope ’93 Dela Vega
Lawrence Dolan, father of Paul ’76 and Matthew ’83; grandfather of Jack ’11 and Peter ’14 Dolan and Maddox Hart ’21
Cecilia Dzurec, grandmother of Drew Semancik ’25
Johanna Flaherty, grandmother of Nathan ’22, Kevin ’24 and Megan ’30 Flaherty
Audrey Carson Fullen, mother of R. Scott Carson ’71
Bernard Gallagher, father of Brigid Gallagher ’99
Daniel Goodnow, grandfather of Ben ’26 and Nathan ’26 Goodnow
Michael Gundling, uncle of Ava Gundling ’26
Santa Harbert, grandmother of Dean of Residential Life Jeff Brown
Katherine Howley, sister of Daniel ’61 (deceased), Lee ’65 and Thomas ’68 Howley; aunt of Christopher ’85, Sarah ’87 and Michael ’89 Howley
Amanda Impulitti, sister of Nick Impullitti ’01; aunt of Joey ’34, Jackson ’36 and Quinn ’39 Impullitti
Susan Vance Johnson, sister of Chief Advancement Strategy Officer Ray Murphy
Jeff Juliano, brother of James ’67 and Richard ’85 Juliano; son of former Women’s Club president Elizabeth Bares Juliano (deceased); cousin of James Bares ’80 and Upper School instructor Eileen Pryatel
Christopher Keller, former Trustee
Rita Kirk, grandmother of Nicholas Flocken ’05, Janice Flocken Mayer ’08, Lauren Flocken ’08 and Monica Flocken Miller ’13
Leonard Klein, father of Upper School instructor Jeff Klein; grandfather of Nathan Klein ’12
Jim Klick, uncle of Upper School instructor Dr. Linda Monitello; great-uncle of Anthony ’17 and Angeline ’19 Monitello
Craig Koenig, father of Bridget Palmer ’04; brother of Brian Koenig ’63; uncle of Kevin ’89 and Kyle ’94 Koenig and Kristen Koenig Bird ’90
Janet Korn, grandmother of Erin Rossoll ’27; mother-in-law of former Business Office administrator Beckie Korn
Mary Ann Kovalski, mother of Katherine Kovalski Busby ’92 and Will Kovalsky ’94
Henry Kurdziel, grandfather of Annie MessmerKurdziel ’04
Timothy LaGanke, grandfather of Casey Lennon ’30 ; uncle of Allyson LaGanke ’93
Jean Paul Lavalley, uncle of Kalie Lavalley ’26
Judith Lazuka, mother of Walter ’86, Christopher ’88, Joseph ’89, Stephen ’91 and Scott ’93 Lazuka; grandmother of Alex ’27, Sophia ’28 and Maeve ’36 Lazuka; mother-in-law of Maureen Eville Lazuka ’90
Daniel Lazzaro, father of William Lazzaro ’23 and brother of Thomas Lazzaro ’82
Mary Livingston, mother of former academic support team member Katie Wetherbee and David Livingston ’90; mother-in-law of Katherine Oviatt Livingston ’89
John Love, brother of Emma Love ’17
Cathy Lozick, former Gilmour Trustee; daughter of Fred Lennon (deceased); sister of John Lennon ’55 (deceased); aunt of John ’78 and James ’80 (deceased) Lennon; great-aunt of Casey ’30, James ’30 and Katelyn ’32 Lennon
John Matuska, father of Mark ’97 and Matthew ’00 Matuska
Frank McCamley, father of Brian ’03 and Lauren ’08 McCamley; former Upper School instructor
Denise Mirando, mother of David ’12, Agnes ’14 and Matthew ’25 Mirando
Nannie Moseley, mother of AVI regional director Stefanie Tuma
Robert Ondak, Sr., father of Ann Marie Ondak Clifford ’90 and Rob Ondak, Jr. ’91
Chester Orlando, great uncle of Ashley ’26 and John ’28 Orlando
Eloise Parsons, grandmother of Upper School instructor and residence hall proctor Melissa Jeric
Lyle Pauer, brother-in-law of Brother Charles Smith, C.S.C.
Lucille Pawlowski, mother of John ’94 and Michael ‘96 Pawlowski and Jackie Pawlowski Coletta ’96; grandmother of Dominic ’25, Connor ’27 and Lucy ’28 Coletta, and Marissa Pawlowski ’28; mother-in-law of Cheryl DuChez Pawlowski ’96
John Plucinsky, father of Thomas ’85; grandfather of Ty ’20 and Chad ’23 Plucinsky
Peter Poolos, father of Mark Poolos ’91
Michael Pozsgai, former Gilmour instructor, athletic director, dean of students and football coach; father of Tim Pozsgai ’98; grandfather of Tyler Pozsgai ’28
Cheri Ramos, future mother-in-law of instructor Jacqueline Schmidt ’13
Rose Marie Ripepi, grandmother of Gianna ’18 and Vincent ’22 Stafford
Dolores Robinson, mother of former Upper School instructor, Deanne Nowak
Dr. Gordon Rodeen, father of Upper School instructor Mary Merkel and grandfather of Bart Merkel ’10
Jack Repasky, uncle of Upper School instructor
John Overman, great-uncle of Jack Overman ’25
Victor Scaravilli, grandfather of Cassidy Scaravilli ’28
Nancy Schlotter, grandmother of Katelyn Schlotter ’18
John Skerl, uncle of Emily Skerl ’16
Patricia Smolik, grandmother of Faith Smolik ’22
Antoinetta Sorco, grandmother of Jamie Bergsman Unger ’09
Kathryn Strand, grandmother of Kelly Strand ’03
Billie Stubbs, grandmother of Chiara ’23 and Trevor ’26 Bilant
James Sweeney, grandfather of Danny Rogozinski ’35
Samuel Thomas, grandfather of Joe ’25 and Samantha ’28 Carino
Arleen Turk, aunt of Upper School instructor Ed Turk; great aunt of Trinity ’22, Edward ’24 and Henry ’29 Turk
Brian Verdi, brother-in-law of Nick Impullitti ’01; uncle of Joey ’34, Jackson ’36 and Quinn ’39 Impullitti
Thomas Verdi, father-in-law of Nick Impullitti ’01; grandfather of Joey ’34, Jackson ’36 and Quinn ’39 Impullitti
Michelle White, sister of Peter Hammer ’78; aunt of Jessica Debick ’09; cousin of Timothy ’75, George ’76 (deceased), Daniel ’79 and Andrew ’86 (deceased) Hammer
Frank McCamley:
MARCH 18, 1955 – NOVEMBER 5, 2024
A REFLECTION BY KATHY KENNY
Our community deeply mourns the passing of Frank McCamley, whose 30 years at Gilmour were marked by unwavering devotion to those he taught and those he taught with. Mr. McCamley was more than an English teacher; he was a wit, a mentor, a guardian of grammar and good humor, and above all, a steadfast believer in the power of young minds.
How fitting that at the celebration of Frank’s life, held March 8 at Gilmour, his family gave each guest a bookmark featuring his photo and favorite quote from William Butler Yeats: “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”
Born in Ireland, Frank brought with him the lilting charm of a storyteller. His voice could dance through McCann or Joyce as if he’d grown up beside them. He didn’t just teach literature—he performed it. Every class felt like a scene, with him both narrating and improvising, drawing students in whether they expected to be captivated or not. He had a rare ability to take the driest Victorian passage and, with a smirk and that unmistakable cadence, turn it into a room full of laughter and thought.
Frank knew that laughter belonged in learning. His wit was legendaryquick, clever and never cruel. Whether correcting a dangling modifier or gently reining in the chaos of a class discussion, he did it all with humor that left us better, not belittled. Yet, behind the jokes and good-natured pranks was a man of great compassion. He had a gift for knowing when someone needed a quiet word, a kind note in the margin, or a seat left open after class. His students knew that in Mr. McCamley’s room, they weren’t just expected to learn—they were welcomed as they were.
Beneath the humor was profound depth. Frank had a gift for seeing potential in students long before they saw it in themselves. Whether coaxing a quiet ninth grader to speak in a Socratic seminar or coaching a
reluctant student to step into a role at the annual Trial of Socrates, students did not feel merely included. They knew their voices were essential.
He taught students to think critically, speak bravely, and write with clarity and conviction. Ask any former student or teacher, and they’ll recall Frank’s timeless mantra: “Show, don’t tell.” His classroom was more than a place of learning—it was a rehearsal space for confidence, a proving ground for self-belief. In his care, students learned to build arguments, challenge assumptions, and defend ideas - not just for a grade, but to become thoughtful, articulate and courageous writers.
We owe deep gratitude to Frank’s wife, Janet, and their children, Brian ’03 and Lauren ’08. They shared their brilliant and generous husband and father with us for three decades, and in doing so, left an indelible mark on our minds and in our hearts.
We will quote him for years, retell his jokes, and strive to live with the same kindness, mischief and curiosity that he modeled every day.
May we carry forward his legacy with full hearts and sharp minds, and remember - as Frank might say with a wink and a brogue - “Slán abhaile, dear friend, until we meet again.”
Scan the QR code to see photos and watch video tributes from the Celebration of Life.
FOR A TEACHER
I. M. FRANK MCCAMLEY
Maybe we listened more than you thought— all those hours and blocks at desks and tables in our slipshod tie knots and pleated skirts. What were you saying just then, as our gaze turned toward the window, dreaming of being grown, being elsewhere, anywhere but here? Everywhere you went you kept a library within —in Armagh, in Cleveland, in Tallahassee— you kept the word-hoard, places and names. Maybe to name the world is to allow yourself to love it, though it will only break your heart. You told us stories. You made us laugh. You taught kindness as a kind of language while we sat there looking out the window. Again and again you told us the same jokes. You taught us wisdom is to know nothing, and that wisdom too has its consequences. Maybe it all mattered more than it seemed, masses and lunch duties and open houses. Suppose God dwells in the lesson plans, the marginal notes and interim reports. You kept the word-hoard, places and names. You kept a library within, and opened it to us while we sat dreaming by the window learning to go elsewhere, to be grown. Maybe wisdom is all we learn too late. I have learned that I would rather laugh than be wise. I would rather have you tell the old jokes in that voice I still can hear. Maybe laughter is a wisdom all its own. For that, old friend, I would knot my tie and sit down by the window. I would listen.
- Dave Lucas
Former Gilmour English teacher and colleague of Frank's and the second Poet Laureate of the State of Ohio
Tudor