March 2025 Shield Magazine

THE SHIELD IN THIS ISSUE: - WHAT’S NEW AT SH? - NEW CHAPEL! - CAPITAL CAMPAIGN PROGRESS - GENEROUS DONATION - CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK - ALUMNI ASSOCIATION - NEW! FACULTY FOCUS - SUPPORT SALINA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS AT MATCH MADNESS - JOIN US FOR THE 1ST ANNUAL SALINA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS BLUE AND GOLD AFFAIR! - UPCOMING EVENTS

SPRING 2025

Dear Knights Family, As spring brings renewal and growth, we are filled with gratitude for the many blessings unfolding at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School. This season reminds us of the joy of Christ’s resurrection and the continued mission we share: Together, Salina Catholic Schools prepare the Whole Person – Spirit, Mind, and Body – to be a Disciple of Jesus on Mission.

One of the most exciting developments this year has been the formation of an Academic Council, a dedicated team of teachers from across our PreK-12 schools. This council has worked diligently to unify our Salina Catholic Schools campus by creating a cohesive academic vision that strengthens curriculum alignment and faith formation from the earliest grades through high school. Their efforts have led to the adoption of a new academic vision statement: “Empowering young hearts to grow in Christ, lead with purpose, and share His light in the world.” This vision will guide our curriculum and instruction, ensuring that every student—no matter their grade level—receives a faith-filled education that prepares them for academic success and a life of discipleship and service.

We are pleased to announce that the chapel renovation is complete! This sacred space is now being used regularly for Mass, prayer services, and for Adoration on Fridays. The presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament has brought a profound sense of peace and spiritual renewal to our school community. We invite you to join us for Friday Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in our new chapel. Whether you are a past student, parent, or friend of Sacred Heart, we welcome you to spend time in prayer with us and experience the beauty of this new space dedicated to Christ.

Additionally, we are looking forward to one of the biggest events of the year—the Blue & Gold Affair! This annual auction for Salina Catholic Schools is set to welcome 500+ guests for a night of fellowship, fun, and support for Catholic education. We hope to see many Knights in attendance as we come together to celebrate and strengthen our schools!

Our school remains vibrant with faith, learning, and activity. In this article, you will see that our building is buzzing from all of the excitement! Capital Campaign progress, State Championships, fun student collaborations with St. Mary’s Grade School, student-led events through our Community-House system, and so much more. Our students continue to grow as leaders and disciples and Sacred Heart is truly thriving.

All this to say, we are grateful for your continued prayers and support of our staff, students, and families.

May God bless you and your families this spring! We look forward to seeing you on campus soon.

On Mission, John Krajicek Geoff Andrews Principal Superintendent of Schools Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School Salina Diocese

Alumni Association

MISSION The mission of the Alumni Association is to promote the spirit of loyalty among graduates and former students through joint communications and companionship; linking the past with the present for our shared future in order to glorify Jesus’ Most Sacred Heart.

GOALS The Alumni Association seeks to: - Acknowledge and recognize outstanding, successful, and distinguished Alumni.

- Preserve and celebrate the history, heritage, and traditions of Sacred Heart and alumni.

- Organize regular alumni events to encourage social interaction and reconnection with and among alumni Class of 1984 represented at Grandparents / Alumni and the school.

Weekend in September celebrating their 40th class - Generate funds to provide student scholarships reunion. L-r: Tom Benson, Mike Begnoche, Mike Junk, Wayne Counts, Geri Kenney, Ann O’Connor, Stacy and provide organizational and volunteer support when Hagenbuch, Sergio Torres Barrera, Mary Benson, Laurie Doll, Tricia Wilcox, Karen Brightbill, Lisa Clincy, Jolene needed.

Breeden, Brian Mai - Develop the Alumni Association as a financially selfsufficient and fiscally responsible organization within the community.

HOW CAN YOU MEANINGFULLY ENGAGE WITH YOUR ALMA MATER? KEEP US INFORMED From graduations to career accomplishments, to weddings and births, to retirements. And, yes, to the passing of our alumni. We want to share all of this with our community so we can celebrate and honor you.

ATTEND AN ALUMNI EVENT Match Madness - hosted by Greater Salina Community Foundation (March 13) – Located at Salina Fieldhouse, this incredible event hosts over 100 local non-profit organizations, including St. Mary’s Grade School, Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School and all three Catholic parishes for a 24 hour day of giving! Join us on Thursday, March 13 anytime from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION HERE!

The Blue and Gold Affair – (April 26) – The first event of its kind that will benefit Love N’ Learn Early Childhood Center, St. Mary’s Grade School, and Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School! Grab some friends and come have a good time. We’re bringing back the Gavel award for the class with the most attendees!

39th Annual Bishop George K. Fitzsimons Golf Tournament (July 11) – Look for the general registration for this outstanding day of fellowship, food (and drink), and fun!

Grandparents and Alumni Weekend (Date TBD)– This is a great weekend for Alumni Reunions with Friday Night Lights and the Knight Hall of Fame Brunch Saturday morning. School tours are available!

VOLUNTEER & DONATE Giving of your time, talent, and treasure extends the reach of our efforts. All events and fundraising efforts need your engagement. Please discern your gift to the Capital Campaign, Raising Saints Annual Fund and the endowment fundraiser, Match Madness. No gift is too small.

What’s New at SH? Our new Chapel

We are so proud and honored to announce the dedication of our new chapel, a sacred space designed to deepen faith and foster community.

This milestone marks a significant step in the school’s Expanding Spirit, Mind, and Body capital campaign, which continues to enhance the spiritual, academic, and physical environment for our students and families.

The chapel was officially blessed and dedicated in November during a special Mass celebrated by Bishop Gerald Vincke, bringing together students and faculty to witness this special moment. The dedication Mass served as a powerful reminder of Sacred Heart’s commitment to providing students with a strong spiritual foundation.

With its doors now open, the chapel is a place for students, faculty, and the wider community to gather in prayer and worship. Daily Mass is now celebrated, offering students a consistent opportunity to strengthen their faith. In addition, Eucharistic Adoration will be held every Friday and is open to the public, inviting all to step away from the noise of daily life and spend time in the peaceful presence of Christ.

“We are incredibly blessed to have this chapel at the front of our school where it belongs,” said Principal John Krajicek. “This space will help foster the faith of our students for generations to come, providing them with a place to reflect, pray, and encounter God in a powerful way.” added Superintendent Geoff Andrews.

The dedication of the chapel is more than just the opening of a new space—it is a testament to the generosity of those who believe in the mission of Salina Catholic Schools. The Expanding Spirit, Mind, and Body campaign has been instrumental in making this vision a reality, ensuring that faith remains a cornerstone of education at Sacred Heart.

The school warmly invites the community to visit and experience the beauty and peace of the new chapel. Whether attending daily Mass, joining for Adoration, or simply taking a quiet moment of prayer, all are welcome in this sacred space.

All -Saints Day

One of the most cherished traditions on our campus is the celebration of All Saints Day. This special day is filled with faith, joy, and community as we honor the saints and seek their intercession.

Following Mass celebrated by Bishop Vincke, St. Mary’s Grade School students, dressed as their favorite saints, parade to the high school, where they are greeted with “When the Saints Go Marching In” playing in the gym. A tunnel of junior high and high school students and staff welcomes them with high-fives and cheers, creating a heartwarming moment of unity across all grade levels.

After their grand entrance, the young saints make their way back to the grade school, concluding a tradition that continues to bring joy and inspiration to our students and staff alike. To see highlights from this special day, visit our Facebook page!

State Championship Banners

Generous Donation from Mr. Fedele

This January, we honored the 2023-2024 Boys Golf Team as they secured their 9th consecutive State Championship, setting a new Kansas record for the most back-to-back state golf titles across all classes. A true dynasty on the green!

We also celebrated the 2023-2024 Scholars Bowl Team, who claimed their 3rd straight State Championship—a testament to the legacy of academic excellence that continues to thrive. And the momentum hasn’t stopped! Just weeks ago, our Scholars Bowl team brought home a 2nd place finish at the 2A State Championship, proving that the Knights are still a force to be reckoned with.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. John Fedele, a retired military veteran, who served as a dedicated substitute teacher at Sacred Heart for over a decade from the late ‘90s to the mid-2000s. During his time with us, he developed a deep appreciation for our school and its mission. In an incredible act of generosity, Mr. Fedele recently donated a new car to our school. Thank you, Mr. Fedele, for your unwavering support of Catholic education and our school community!

Golf: Michael Matteucci, Hunter Newell, Walker Tuttle, Luke Newell, Dominic Matteucci, Coach Patrick Newell. Scholars Bowl: Coach David Green, Abram Anderson, Jordan King, Nathan White, Luke Newell, Coach Anna Bonilla Gordon.

Math Relay Competition Our Math Relay Team competed at Fort Hays State University against some of the best math students in the state!

They faced numerous challenging events covering topics such as number sense, calculating with calculators, and trigonometry. The Knights took 2nd place in the 2A/3A Division and Competing against 48 schools ranging from 1A-6A, our team placed 9th overall.

Back L-r: Alan Morales, Issac Berndt, Ethan Schrant, Elias Gordon, Luke Newell, Abram Anderson, Ethan Newell, Ji-Won Park. Front l-r: Dominic Matteucci, Elliana Reed, Lucy Geitz, Abi Garcia, Makenna Soukup, Caroline Stone, Coaches Mr. Braden Dameron, and Mr. John Darrow.

SpiritMania - the tradition continues!

During football and basketball seasons, our cheer team hosts Spiritmania clinics as a way to connect with our favorite future Knights from St. Mary’s Grade School! In January, we hosted nearly 50 SMGS cheerleaders to our gym making it quite a packed house! Our cheerleaders do an incredible job of instructing and supporting our little Knights. We love any chance to collaborate as a campus and we look forward to the next opportunity!

Spring Musical: A Year With Frog & Toad A SHJSHS x SMGS production

For full cast, visit our Facebook page!

In February, our talented high school and St. Mary’s Grade School students brought the beloved characters to life in this year’s spring musical, A Year with Frog and Toad! Directed by Matea Gregg and with heartwarming performances and plenty of charm, the production showcased the incredible talent and collaboration across our school community. Bravo to the cast and crew!

Catholic Schools Week During Catholic Schools Week at the end of January, our students put their faith into action through acts of service across the community. High school students volunteered at Ashby House, Catholic Charities, Morrison House, Salina Shares, DVACK, the Food Bank, Love, Chloe Foundation, Presbyterian Manor, and Eaglecrest Retirement Home, making a meaningful impact.

Meanwhile, junior high students spread joy by writing letters to retirement home residents. After a week of giving back, students enjoyed well-earned activity days—high schoolers at The Alley and junior high students on campus. A truly special week of faith, service, and fun!

We were honored to host Braden Johnson, a Catholic speaker, who delivered a powerful message to our K-12 students, inspiring them to grow in faith. He concluded his presentation with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, creating a profound and moving experience. Watching our students—young and old—kneel in reverence, united in awe of Christ’s presence, was a beautiful and unforgettable reminder of the faith that binds our school community together.

At Salina Catholic Schools, education goes beyond textbooks—it’s about forming the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.

Our students excel academically, but they also learn the importance of faith, character, and service. Through experiences like Catholic Schools Week, they see firsthand how to live out their values and make a difference in the world.

Here, faith is not just something we teach—it’s something we live. With a strong sense of community, a commitment to excellence, and a foundation in Christ, Salina Catholic Schools is the place to grow, learn, and lead.

Faculty Focus: Brian Gormley What brought you to SH, and what was your first role here?

I was a student at KWU from 1990-95. During that time I attended Mass at St. Mary’s church and became aware of the two Catholic schools on its campus. My junior year I did a student observation under the guidance of Mr. Poltz, who was both a history teacher and the assistant principal. My first foray into the halls of Sacred Heart put me in touch with the junior class that year in second hour American History (SH graduating class of 1992).

When did you begin teaching at SH? I began teaching sophomore, junior, and senior English in the fall of 1995, very thankfully after being the third selection. Apparently, the first two decided to move to the eastern side of the state, and since I was already married to a Salina gal, I wasn’t transient.

Can you share a favorite memory from your time at the school?

Meeting and developing a relationship with Sr. Pauline is one of my highlights as it is with anyone who has had the opportunity to be around her. Another annual highlight is the senior post-graduation handshake line. After shaking hands with twenty-nine classes, it becomes a meta-memory opportunity for me.

Is there a particular moment with students or colleagues that still makes you smile?

The list is spectacularly endless; it grows from year to year. However, the gift that keeps on giving smiles is any victory over Southeast of Saline.

How have you seen the school evolve during your time here?

I’ve seen our school population fluctuate from a 1A to 3A and back to our current enrollment. In all that time, the most important thing has been the constant: to have a school dedicated to Christian values in our Catholic faith tradition. It is vigilance to that absolute that keeps our Salina Catholic Schools moving in the right direction.

How has the school’s mission influenced your teaching experience?

In every way is the most accurate way to answer this question. I don’t think that I would have developed the connection to Catholic literature nor apologetics if I had taught in the public school system. Teaching in any Catholic school challenges the faculty to find the connection to our Christian faith in all aspects, every unit, and in daily lesson planning. This sort of mission focus has brought me in touch with the best in the Catholic intellectual tradition.

What do you enjoy most about working with students?

The interaction in the classroom. When students take an interest in some aspect of the content we are working with and engage with me and each other. I also enjoy when students tell me school-appropriate jokes that don’t involve baldness.

What inspires you to continue teaching after all these years?

Besides the bills I have to pay, I would have to say it is always trying to be better at what I’ve done in the past. I really enjoy applying the impact cycle to my craft.

If you could share one piece of advice with your students—past and present— what would it be?

Choose to be good rather than be happy (attribution to Marcus Aurelius). Choose to write your own essay rather than having the Internet do it (Mr. Gormley’s Twentyfirst Century iteration).

Are there any moments when you saw faith or community come alive in a special way?

I recall the faith that students show when they are in times of struggle. It is humbling and inspiring. I can’t help but remember the joy that Katie Wagoner brought to Sacred Heart everyday even though she suffered greatly and knew her time with us would be limited. There are many others who have endured hardships like the saints teach us to, and when you are around young people who do that, it brings an old curmudgeon like myself immense hope.

What might people not know about you?

I have stock in every clipboard manufacturing company listed on the exchange as well as every synthetic caffeine laboratory.

What excites you about the school’s future?

Our House and Community system has given the school an opportunity to engage students in unique ways. I am grateful that this system has become an integral part of how we educate our students at SH, and I am excited to see how new students and faculty members help us develop an even better system of community.

How do you hope your time here has made a lasting impact?

I really don’t think about a lasting impact. I am hopeful that the work we are doing at SH now is worthy of the commitment of our families and the diocese.

IN ALL THAT WE DO, GIVE GLORY AND HONOR TO GOD The Expanding Spirit, Mind and Body Legacy Campaign is a historical effort for Sacred Heart that will bolster the spiritual, educational and athletic experiences of our students and families. Please join us!

Our Future. Our Vision. Our Goals.

CHAPEL RENOVATION ESTIMATED COST: $240,000 Our Catholic faith is at the heart of our mission. Relocating the chapel to the front of the building is symbolic of our commitment to keeping God at the center of who we are and what we do.

Conceptual Rendering

FITNESS CENTER ESTIMATED COST: $1.5 MILLION*

BAND ROOM ESTIMATED COST: $240,000*

*Includes equipment, architect/engineering fees and contingency costs.

Our plan is to renovate the former chapel into a dedicated band room featuring proper acoustics and soundproofing as well as dedicated and secure storage for instruments.

Conceptual Rendering

ART STUDIO ESTIMATED COST: $200,000*

*Includes equipment, architect/engineering fees and contingency costs.

*Includes cabinets, furniture, architect/engineering fees and contingency costs.

The new 4,500 square foot state-of-the-art fitness center will feature modern Olympic lift stations, free weights, and cardio machines, as well as a durable turf surface for functional training, agility drills, sprints, sled pushes and strength training.

Similarly, our plan to renovate the existing weigh room into a modern art studio demonstrates that same commitment to excellence in Fine Arts programming. The new space will feature increased square footage, enhanced natural and artificial lighting, and extensive storage capacity.

Conceptual Rendering

Conceptual Rendering

“ I am very excited about the Expanding Spirit, Mind and Body Legacy Campaign for Sacred Heart. There are many wonderful things happening at our Catholic Schools in Salina, and this campaign will make it even better and stronger. Please join me in participating in this campaign so that all of our students and families become disciples of Jesus on mission.”

Bishop Gerald Vincke, Catholic Diocese of Salina

KNIGHTS ACADEMIC CENTER ESTIMATED COST: $200,000* *Includes furniture, white boards, Promethean Boards, media screen, architect/engineering fees and contingency costs.

Our plan is to create a modern and adaptable learning environment conducive to accommodating diverse learning styles, collaborative work and innovative thinking.

STRENGTHENING THE SACRED HEART ENDOWMENT: $500,000 Through the Expanding Spirit, Mind and Body Legacy Campaign, we will: • Increase the endowment by $500,000.

• Raise awareness of the importance of the endowment.

• Establish a formal planned giving program.

Conceptual Renderings

Please contact Joel Bicknell ’91, Salina Catholic Schools, Director of

questions? Development, at 785-827-5575 or joel.bicknell@salinacatholic.org. ways to give

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE AND MAKE A GIFT TODAY!

DONATE ONLINE OR BY MAIL

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS

IRA CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTION

STOCKS OR SECURITIES

To make a gift online or to download a pledge card go to: salinacatholic.org/page/ capital-campaign

Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School is a charitable organization that may accept gifts from a donor advised fund (DAF).

If you are 70 ½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School without paying income tax on the gift. This can also count towards satisfying your required minimum distribution (RMD).

Appreciated assets like stocks or mutual funds held for over a year can offer a tax-efficient way to give, potentially saving you both capital gains and income tax by allowing you to deduct the full market value.

Mail your pledge card or gift to: Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School ATTN: Joel Bicknell 234 E. Cloud Street Salina, KS 67401

This information is not intended as legal or tax advice. Because tax laws change and each situation is unique, donors are encouraged to consult with their own qualified financial advisor for specific recommendations.

What’s New on Campus?

Alma Mater Our music department debuted our new Sacred Heart Alma Mater during the Homecoming football game in October. We wanted to include it here so our community can become familiar with it to sing loud and proud!

An Alma Mater is a school anthem that is typically played or sung at sporting events or school functions, like graduation or alumni events. This is different from our fight song. Many universities and high schools across the nation have an Alma Mater, and we felt it was important for Sacred Heart to have one as well.

Sacred Heart our dearest, caring, strong and true, stands a school forever, gleams thy Gold and Blue Glory's mantle cloaks thee, always do our part And our love forever, praise the Sacred Heart And our hearts forever, love the Sacred Heart!

LOVE N’ LEARN EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER IS OPEN! We are thrilled to announce that as of January 2025, Love N’ Learn Early Childhood Center is officially open! Following a major renovation in 2024, the center has expanded its programming to serve infants, toddlers, Preschool, and Pre-K students.

To meet the growing demand for quality early childhood education, LNL is actively seeking passionate, dedicated staff members to join the team.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Love N’ Learn family, please contact jessica.jacobs@salinacatholic.org.

SALINA CATHOLIC SCHOOLS ENHANCE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

Salina Catholic Schools are proud to announce an innovative partnership with local community mental health providers to enhance access to mental health services for SMGS and SHJSHS students and families. This collaboration unites the schools with Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC), Maureen Francois Counseling (SH Alumni ‘09), and Lydia Kirchman with North Star Guidance to deliver comprehensive, school-based mental health support.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting student well-being and academic success by addressing the growing need for accessible mental health resources within the community. By bringing these services directly into the schools, the initiative aims to reduce barriers such as transportation and scheduling challenges, ensuring that students can receive the care they need in a supportive and familiar environment.

The initiative is made possible through a grant from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) under the Mental Health Intervention Team (MHIT) program. Previously available only to public schools, this funding has recently been extended to accredited private schools, enabling Salina Catholic Schools to join this vital effort to expand mental health services for students. To learn more about this initiative, visit www. salinacatholic.org or our Facebook page.

New website / app!

We launched a Salina Catholic Schools mobile app for families, grandparents, alumni, and friends! Check it out by searching Salina Catholic Schools on the App Store or Google Play Store!

Knight in the Spotlight: Samuel Stone

For Sam Stone, ‘19, high school wasn’t just about academics—it was about seizing every opportunity, leading with purpose, and strengthening his faith. From the stage to the sports field, from debate tournaments to leadership roles, Sam made the most of his time at Sacred Heart. Now, as a Supply Chain Specialist in Kansas City, he continues to carry the values instilled in him during his years as a Knight.

Sam’s journey at Sacred Heart was deeply influenced by family. His mother, Marylin Stone (Class of 1980), was a proud alum, and his younger sister, Caroline (Class of 2025), is following in his footsteps.

Their family’s commitment to Sacred Heart spans generations, reinforcing a strong foundation of faith, education, and service.

When asked about his favorite memories at Sacred Heart, Sam doesn’t hesitate. “Participating in all of the extracurricular activities—Cross Country, Football, the School Musical, Track, Bowling, Forensics, Debate, and Scholars Bowl—made my experience so special. Each activity introduced me to new friendships and experiences that shaped who I am today.”

But beyond the fun and competition, Sacred Heart gave him something more—a strong sense of time management and the motivation to always go the extra mile. “Balancing school, sports, and leadership roles taught me how to prioritize and build meaningful connections.”

After Sacred Heart Sam pursued a degree in Supply Chain Management with a minor in Political Science at Kansas State University. Now working at Kiewit in Kansas City, he credits his Sacred Heart experience for preparing him for leadership roles, teamwork, and professional challenges.

Sam’s achievements both in high school and beyond are extensive. While at Sacred Heart, he earned Eagle Scout designation, 2019 1-4A First Team All-State for Bowling, State Cross Country Runner (2015 & 2016), CYO President (2018-2019), All-State Band Selection (2019), and Student Delegate for the Salina Parks & Recreation Board (2018-2019).

His leadership didn’t stop after high school. At Kansas State, Sam took on executive roles within Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, helping his chapter win the Smythe Award (given to the nation’s top fraternity chapters) three years in a row. He also earned the Finance Award, recognizing him among the top 5% of fraternity treasurers nationwide. In 2019, Sam was honored with the Kansas Senate Tribute, a distinction awarded to standout community members, presented by Senator Randal Hardy.

Leaving the Sacred Heart community for college was a transition that tested Sam’s faith, but ultimately strengthened it. “In college, I wasn’t constantly surrounded by people who shared my beliefs, so I had to actively seek out ways to grow in my faith,” he recalls. This realization led him to teach Totus Tuus for two summers, helping younger students grow in their spiritual journeys. He also found support in a faith-based friend group that attended Mass and Bible studies together. Two priests in particular made a lasting impact on him. Fr. Andrew and Fr. Andy were instrumental in answering his questions about faith and guiding him through his discernment process. “They always encouraged my curiosity and never made me feel like my questions were too small or unimportant.”

Even with a busy career in Kansas City, Sam remains committed to Sacred Heart. He currently serves as the Treasurer for the Sacred Heart Alumni Association, finding ways to give back to the school that gave him so much. For him, staying connected with fellow alumni isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about growth. “People change after high school. You might not have connected with someone back then, but you never know how much you’ll have in common now unless you take that chance.”

A Message to Current Students To current students and recent graduates, Sam offers this advice: “Learn about your faith to the point where you can teach it to others. You’ll face questions you don’t know the answers to, and that’s okay. It’s an opportunity to grow and strengthen your understanding.” And for those heading off to college? “Check out the Newman Centers. Surround yourself with people who genuinely want the best for you.”

If Sam could relive one moment at Sacred Heart, it would be his final bowling tournament as a senior.

“Skipping school to compete one last time with my teammates—it was a perfect way to close out my time at Sacred Heart.” His journey from Sacred Heart to success is a testament to the power of faith, leadership, and community.

Who should we spotlight next? Email alumni@salinacatholic.org!

KNIGHTS HALL OF FAME

WHO DO YOU THINK DESERVES TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE HALL OF FAME? NOMINATE THEM TODAY AT THE QR CODE BELOW!

To be placed on the Knights Hall of Fame Ballot, individuals, teams, and/or classes must be nominated prior to May 31, 2025. Nominees can be recognized for their accomplishments while at the school or for significant accomplishments post-graduation. Post-humous nominations are welcome.

Nominees will be announced at the Bishop’s Golf Tournament in July and honored during Grandparents & Alumni Weekend in September! More info to come.

Nominees must be in good standing with the school and meet the following criteria.

• Student Scholars, Artists, Athletes - Have graduated from SHJSHS, meet the criteria for the waiting period as outlined below.

• Faculty/Staff/Coaches/Sponsors - Coached a Varsity sport, sponsored a KSHSAA Activity, and/or taught for a minimum of 7 years at the school.

Waiting period: • Alumni nominees are eligible 10 years after graduating from Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School. (-10 years are eligible for the Young Alumni Awards - more information coming soon.)

• Coaches, sponsors, faculty are eligible immediately after retiring from coaching and teaching.

• Active members of Council of Education, Endowment Board, or their immediately family are NOT eligible for nomination during their active service to these boards.

Selection Criteria: Nominees will be considered on a number of factors including, but not limited to the following.

• Exemplary accomplishments pre- and/or postgraduation or employment • Demonstrated servant leadership in community, world, and church • Stewardship of time, talent, and treasure in Catholic education and/or Church • Previous recognition as a Distinguished Alum

TO NOMINATE OR TO VIEW KNIGHTS HALL OF FAME MEMBERS, SCAN CODE HERE OR VISIT WWW.SHKNIGHTS.COM

NEW! ALUMNI DECADE CHAIRS

The Alumni Association is excited to introduce Alumni Decade Chairs who help strengthen our outreach to our graduates. Check your mailboxes this month for your Decade Chair’s first letter. Until then, here’s our impressive list of alumni who said “Yes!” to this opportunity.

1950’s - Arnold Sandquist 1960’s - Fr. Daryl Olmstead 1970’s - Joe Bachofer 1980’s - Pat Martin 1990’s - Kirk Stover 2000’s - Tanya Lawson 2010’s - Clare Stramel 2020’s - Emma Roberts

Upcoming Events March

13

Match Madness

A day of giving with a match up to 50%! We will have a table set up at the event at Salina Fieldhouse from 7:00 am - 7:00 pm and would love to connect with you there!

How to give: In Person: Salina Fieldhouse 7:00 am - 7:00 pm Online: www.matchmadnessgscf.org from 12:00 am - 11:59 pm Mailed / dropped off before March 13th to the school.

(All online donations MUST be received on March 13th to qualify for the match.)

Apr

26 • • •

1st Annual Salina Catholic Schools Blue & Gold Affair We are thrilled to invite you to our first-ever Salina Catholic Schools campus-wide auction event, benefiting Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School,St. Mary’s Grade School, and Love ‘N Learn Early Childhood Center. This event is a fantastic opportunity to support our schools while enjoying a relaxed, fun evening with friends and family!

Saturday, April 26, 2025 Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School Gymnasium

Purchase your tickets on our website www.shknights.com under Blue & Gold Affair! Don’t miss out on this memorable evening to support our schools! We can’t wait to see you there!

Sept

26

2025 Alumni Weekend

The Alumni Association would like to celebrate these significant years with you during next year’s Alumni Weekend on September 26, 2025. If you would like help organizing your event, please contact Chris Clark at chris.clark@salinacatholic.org or at 785.827.4422.

This is a perfect opportunity to reconnect with your classmates and reminisce about your cherished time at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School. We’ve planned an exciting lineup of events just for you: • Hospitality Area at the Football Game: Kick off the weekend by reconnecting with your fellow alumni at the Knights Hospitality Area inside the stadium.

• Halftime Recognition: Gather on the field for recognition at halftime.

• Knights Hall of Fame Brunch: Join us on Saturday, September 27, at 10 a.m., for this celebration of our inductees into the Hall of Fame.

• School Tour: Revisit your old stomping grounds and see the new developments at Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School.

Remembering our Alumni

The names listed represent those that have passed away since the last edition of the Shield Magazine. If you believe we are missing someone, please complete the Shield Information form.

2024 Philippe Desjardin - Class of 1966 Terrance Bohm - Class of 1993 Norma Uhran - Class of 1958 Constance Wary - Class of 1954 Lisa Laue - Class of 1975 Linda Miller - Class of 1971 Virginia Bachand - Class of 1967

2025 Rick Allen - Class of 1977

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Stay Connected With Us!

We love hearing from our alumni! Update your contact information and share your exciting news, achievements, and celebrations with us. Whether it’s a new job, a big milestone, a wedding, a new addition to the family, or remembering a loved one, we want to celebrate and support you.

Stay in touch and let us share your story with our alumni community! Send your updates to Alumni@salinacatholic.org or contact the Alumni Association at 785-827-4422.

For birth information and for the deceased, submit your information via this form or via QR code.

Mail to: 230 E Cloud Street, Salina, KS 67401 Submitted by: Birth(s) Name of Child (First, last)

Date of Birth:

Father’s Name

Graduation year:

Mother’s Name

Graduation year:

Sibling(s) Names and Ages Grandparents:

Graduation year:

Grandparents:

Graduation year:

Death(s) Name of Deceased: (First, last, maiden if applicable.)

Graduation year: Survivors:

Date of Death: Graduation year: Graduation year: Graduation year: Graduation year:

Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School 234 E. Cloud Street Salina, KS 67401

Stay in the loop!

We want you to stay in the loop with upcoming events, important updates, accomplishments from our students and faculty. You have walked our hallways and you will forever be a part of our Sacred Heart Jr/Sr High School family.

Please check out our updated www.shknights.com and www.salinacatholic.org for the most up to date information. Make sure you are following us on Facebook and a part of the SHJSHS Alumni group!

Go Knights!