Jaynotes | Vol. 49 No. 2 | Spring/Summer 2023

THE MAGAZINE OF JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL OF NEW ORLEANS

VOL. 49, NO. 2 | SPRING / SUMMER 2023

Off They Go! | Six State Championships | Jays Around the World

JAYNOTES | SPRING / SUMMER 2023 JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL President Fr. John Brown, S.J. Director of Institutional Advancement Christian Bautista ’06 Director of Alumni Michael Prados ’83 Executive Development Coordinator Krista Roeling Creative Director Brittany Donnes Communication Specialist Melissa Jurisich Senior Development Officer Jean-Paul Perrilliat ’03 Volunteer & Events Coordinators Maura Owers Cindy Wooderson Assistant to the President for Mission Jeremy Reuther ’01 Major Gifts Coordinator Jamie Roy STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Christian Bautista ’06 Brittany Donnes Peter Flores ’09 Melissa Jurisich STAFF CONTRIBUTORS & EDITORS Danny Fitzpatrick ’09 Maura Owers Michael Prados ’83 STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHERS Nolan Clark ’23 Aloka Fernando ’23

ON THE COVER: The Jesuit senior ring, bestowed upon students at the end of their junior year, encapsulates the cherished memories of their pinnacle year and represents the attributes that should define a graduating student as they prepare to carry Jesuit’s mission out into the world. It is not a trophy. It is meant to call Blue Jays to be the men they were made to be.

The ring signifies that its wearer is a man of faith and a man for others, whose recollection, discernment, volition, and liberty are all directed toward God’s greater glory.

COMMENCEMENT The Class of 2023, adorned in black tuxedos, proudly celebrates their commencement, marking a significant milestone in Jesuit High School's illustrious 175-year history.

PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS

Authentically Intelligent, Authentically Free

Rev. John Brown, S.J., to the Jesuit High School graduates of the Class of 2023:

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ear graduates, this is truly a momentous occasion. It marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication on your part with the support of family and friends and faculty and staff, supportive alumni and others—and even your guardian angels.

As part of 175 years of Jesuit High School’s existence, the year of our Lord 2023 is your year to own. We were founded in 1847. The graduating class 33 years later after our founding is known as the graduating class the year the light bulb was invented. 1946 had all the tricks when every sport Jesuit offered went undefeated. The graduating class of 2006 will be known for its resilience in the face of Hurricane Katrina. 2020 will be remembered for COVID. I believe this graduating class will be known in history for something which seemed to sneak up on us: artificial intelligence.

AI is a rapidly developing field that holds immense promise for our future.

It has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact with each other. But as with any technology, AI is a double-edged

sword. It can be a force for good or ill, depending on how we choose to use it.

The previous four sentences were written entirely by artificial intelligence.

Jesuit has prepared you all for something better: authentic intelligence. We rightly think of artificial intelligence as lacking liberty, lacking a free will—and this is correct.

For now, all of our machines obey our commands. We, however, should not take our own liberty for granted.

Liberty, according to St. Ignatius Loyola, is made of three things, three principal powers: our memory, our understanding, and our will. What you retain in your memory, facts, and experiences makes a difference when it comes to your liberty. I believe you’ve been taught well—true facts, helpful experiences. Hold on to these if you wish to remain free.

Do not pollute your memory with falsehoods. Stay away from harmful experiences, no matter how enticing they may seem at the time. Put it into artificial intelligence terms, garbage in, garbage out.

However, your ability to take what seem like negative experiences and learn from them—that certainly can make you more free. What St. Ignatius calls “understanding” is a kind of “thinking muscle.” I believe Jesuit High School has put that muscle to work in you, and you’ve all become stronger, more free, because of it. You can discern. You can judge.

Do not let this muscle get lazy. Do not just accept uncritically whatever is put in front of you after you leave here and go off to college, even if you pay a small fortune for it.

Your memory and understanding count for a lot, but they aren’t

everything. When it comes to your freedom, your will is a very special part of what it means to be free. So far, the people in your life who love you, and this includes everyone at Jesuit High School, have been doing their best to form your will for excellence. You’ve been allowed a number of choices until now, but you are about to be unfettered in a way that you have not yet known.

Stay smart. Stay focused, intentional.

Stay oriented towards what you were created to be: a man of faith and a man for others whose memory, understanding, and will, whose very freedom, is oriented towards glorifying God. Believe it or not, you’ll grow in freedom this way. You’ll set yourselves apart from your peers, and we will all benefit. You’ll set yourselves apart from artificial intelligence, and we will all benefit.

The way that G.K. Chesterton describes a soldier is how I hope that you see yourselves in what is a battle between the artificial and the authentic. He says the true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him. Jesuit High School is now behind you. It is definitely time for you to leave.

We are all proud of the men that you’ve become. The rest of your story will not be as a student at Jesuit High School, but you are all now definitely known as Blue Jays forever.

God willing, you will be known as the authentically intelligent, the authentically free Class of 2023.

Congratulations. 

Fr. John Brown, S.J. President

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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FEATURES 2 Off They Go!

Class of 2023 Graduates 253

15 Academic Results

Eight More “36ers;” Mock Trial Earns State Title; Academic Games Succeeds on National Stage

19 Finding the Faith in Foreign Lands

CLASS OF 2023

Wade Trosclair ’07

22 A Journey Through Ignatian Roots

Justin Genovese ’04 & Paul Hatty

26 Superior General Diego Laínez David Prados ’75

29 A Timeless Tradition Reborn: Corpus Christi

Procession Led by Sodality 45 Flying With the Jays 5 State Titles

66 Jesuit Remembers

Coach Jason Hamrick †

67 175 Moments Continued...

IN EVERY ISSUE 1 President’s Address 58 Where Y’at 62 Bib List 64 In Memoriam Spring/Summer 2023 Vol. 49, No. 2 Jaynotes is published twice a year by the Jesuit High School Office of Institutional Advancement.

HOW TO REACH US Jesuit High School 4133 Banks Street New Orleans, LA 70119 Email: jesuitnews@jesuitnola.org

Where Y’at updates and photographs may be submitted online at jesuitnola.org/where-yat.

VALEDICTORY ADDRESS Christian Courtade gives the valedictory speech at the 2023 Commencement in the Pontchartrain Center.

VALEDIC TORY ADDRESS

MEN OF CHARITY and FORTITUDE

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onight, we are here to celebrate the graduation of the Class of 2023 from Jesuit High School, a school that has educated the minds and hearts of young men for 175 years. We, the graduates, feel mixed emotions: we feel a sense of accomplishment in completing our high school journey, but we also feel eager anticipation to begin the next phase of our lives. As a class, we thank God for the abundant blessings He has given to us. We thank our parents for their unconditional love and unwavering support. With utmost respect, we thank the faculty and staff for giving their all to educate us.

According to Aristotle, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” Rather than indoctrinating a student, authentic education seeks to bring out the best from within the student’s mind and heart. This makes sense because the word “education” comes from a Latin word meaning “to lead out.”

The meaningful education we have received at Jesuit High School has sought to draw out two virtues from the mind and heart of every graduate in the Class of 2023 – fortitude and charity.

Jesuit began to forge us into men of fortitude on the first day of our eighth-grade year. On that hot August day, sweating in our polyester khaki uniforms, we immediately felt Jesuit education. Every day, we were expected to “report” to our classrooms punctually and responsibly. There was a rigorous regimen, but over time, the regimen became our routine.

We learned that the regimen was not arbitrary. It was Jesuit’s way of pushing us to become men of fortitude – men of stamina who could train over long periods of time and strive for excellence in every academic and cocurricular activity, even when success was not guaranteed. Fortitude gave us the willpower to study for tests and exams early in the morning or late at night whether we felt energetic or exhausted. Fortitude gave us the determination to earn 32 awards from the National Merit Program and 6 perfect ACT scores. Fortitude gave us the perseverance to compete for and earn millions of dollars in academic and athletic scholarships to colleges and universities. Fortitude gave our Blue Jay Marching Band the endurance to achieve all Superior ratings in the LMEA Marching Festival. Fortitude gave us the tenacity to bring state championship trophies home to Carrollton and Banks in Mock Trial, Baseball, Cross Country, Lacrosse, Rugby, Swimming, Wrestling, and eSports. In the face of all adversity, we did not quit. We made each day count. As a class, we sincerely thank Jesuit for challenging us to be “gallant fighting sons” who can “climb high” to achieve excellence with fortitude.

Additionally, Jesuit has sought to shape us into men of charity.

With grade level retreats and other opportunities for class fellowship, Jesuit encouraged us to form a unique community of uplifting, inclusive, and supportive men. We took the initiative to give back to our school and to our neighbors as one class, our class. To help more

students find a place of belonging, we created new organizations on campus such as the Politics and Pastries Club, the Investment Club, and the eSports team. With Mission Drive Fundraisers, senior versus faculty sports, the Carrollton Clash, the Gizzard Cape, LT’s kitchen, and exciting Dodransbicentennial pep rallies, our class unified the student body with formidable and untamable Blue Jay spirit. Following Jesus’ commandment to “love our neighbor,” the Sodality and the National Honors Society shopped, packaged, and delivered food items to people in need on behalf of local non-profit organizations. Through our service projects, we learned that bringing the love of Christ into the lives of the most vulnerable is a source of transformative joy for both the giver and the person receiving. As a class, we thank Jesuit for encouraging us to become a brotherhood of charitable men who give without counting the cost.

Tonight, as we sit on stage, dressed in our tuxedos, with our backs straight, eyes forward, and hands on our knees, solemn and reflective, let us remember that our Jesuit education has done its best to form us into men of fortitude and men of charity.

Therefore, as we commence into a world that often opposes strong will and sacrificial love, a world in which we will undoubtedly encounter many challenges, remember – we are ready.

My fellow graduates, my friends and brothers, with the education of Jesuit High School as our foundation, we, the Class of 2023, are ready to live in the modern world as courageous, loving men: men who will lead by example, men who will strive for excellence in the face of adversity, men who will bring hope into the lives of our neighbors, and men who will give back to society for the greater glory of God. God bless you and thank you.  CHRISTIAN R. COURTADE ’23 class of 2023 valedictorian

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES

SPECIAL COMMENDATIONS Presented to the CLASS OF 2023 Each year Jesuit High School recognizes seniors and underclassmen who have achieved significant academic and athletic honors. Among the awards presented to members of the Class of 2023 were the following.

ACADEMIC & CO-CURRICULAR AWARDS THE BLUE JAY PARENTS’ CLUB AWARD for excellence in

scholarship is awarded to the senior who is graduating with the highest grade point average for four years at Jesuit High School.

This year, the award was merited by Christian R. Courtade, Daniel J. Lee, Wade S. Rogers, and Preston J. Rumney.

The valedictorian for the Class of 2023, Christian R. Courtade, with President Fr. John Brown, S.J.

THE SENIOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE AWARD | Being present for all classes, having obtained no absences, tardies, or early departures on a school day | Gabriel E. Schwarz & Colin J. Torrance.

THE ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA AWARD FOR THE MEMBER OF THE YEAR | NHS member who embodies the four pillars of the NHS: character, leadership, service, & scholarship | Christopher W. Hansen THE PROFESSOR MICHAEL CUPERO MEMORIAL AWARD (donated by Cupero’s grandson, Col. Hamil M. Cupero ’56) | Overall musical excellence | Jacob P. Tobler & Alexander H. Weeks THE MCJROTC AWARD | MCJROTC senior cadet who made a significant contribution to the ROTC Program by having exhibited exemplary leadership and dedication | Hayden N. Caron THE PHILELECTIC SOCIETY AWARD | For outstanding achievement in Dramatics | Christopher D. Gieseler THE REVEREND FRANCIS A. FOX, S.J. MEMORIAL AWARD (donated by Mr. Harry Morel, Sr.) | for instrumental music | Alexander H. Weeks THE QUIZ BOWL AWARD | Outstanding achievement in Quiz Bowl | Wade S. Rogers THE MOCK TRIAL AWARD | For outstanding leadership and achievement in Mock Trial | Preston J. Rumney THE CULTURE OF LIFE AWARD | Exemplary leadership as a member of the JHS Pro-Life Club | Dalton P. Haydel THE SUSAN & GARIC SCHOEN AWARD | Excellence in computer studies | Derek Tsang THE REVEREND WILLIAM J. RYAN MEMORIAL AWARD (donated by the late Dr. J. Joseph Ryan in memory of his brother, Rev. William J. Ryan) | Excellence in social studies | Christian R. Courtade & Wade S. Rogers THE JESUIT 500 CLUB AWARD | Excellence in Latin | Roland S. Waguespack IV THE FRANK T. HOWARD MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in physics | Wade S. Rogers THE FRANK T. HOWARD MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in English | Christian R. Courtade THE L’UNION FRANÇAIS AWARD | Excellence in French | William F. Wolfram THE WILLIAM HELIS MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in Greek | Christian R. Courtade THE PAQUETTE FAMILY AWARD | Overall excellence in French | Jackson A. Stopa THE UBALDO TRELLES MEMORIAL AWARD | Excellence in Spanish | Garrett P. Orgeron, Jr. THE EXCELLENCE IN THEOLOGY AWARD | Christian R. Courtade THE LOYOLA UNIVERSITY AWARD FOR MATHEMATICS | Highest overall average in mathematics | Daniel J. Lee

ATHLETIC AWARDS THE JOSEPH MICHAEL WORLEY MEMORIAL AWARD | Senior who, by his unselfishness, sportsmanship, and spirit, enhanced the athletic program either as a player, manager, trainer, or student | Jack L. Lo & Roland S. Waguespack IV 4 | JAYNOTES | SPRING / SUMMER 2023

AWARDS PRESENTED AT 2023 COMMENCEMENT

Roland S. Waguespack IV received the Julia Ferguson McEnerny Memorial Trophy, an award established to honor one graduating senior who possesses those qualities which symbolize “the most representative student of Jesuit High School.”

Edward L. Boudreaux IV received the Very Reverend Father Pedro Arrupe Award, which recognizes the senior who has exemplified the spirit of being a man for others by his participation and excellence in service.

Dalton P. Haydel received the Reverend Father President’s Spiritual Leadership Award, which is presented to the senior who has exerted the greatest spiritual influence on others by living a life exemplifying his Catholic faith.

THE WILLIAM D. & MAYBELLE POSTELL AWARD (donated by their son, John Blake Postell ’59) | Basketball player with exemplary leadership, scholarship, and spirit | Joshua P. Washington THE RODRIGUEZ FAMILY AWARD | Most valuable varsity swimmer | Truman A. Breithaupt VII THE CHESTER M. RIETH AWARD | Track letterman with exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and spirit | Robert A. Buisson THE CHRISTOPHER MORGAN MEMORIAL AWARD | Cross-country letterman with exemplary courage, leadership, sportsmanship, and spirit | Patrick J. Dowd THE MICHAEL D. CONWAY AWARD | Most valuable player on the varsity soccer team | Matthew A. Tortorich & Aidan L. Couvillon THE EDWIN F. STACY, JR. WRESTLING AWARD | Outstanding wrestler who excelled in academics and exhibited exemplary leadership | Chase V. Haydel THE COACH EDWIN W. TORIBIO MEMORIAL AWARD | Senior football letterman who best combined scholarship and athletics | Nicolas O. Foley THE MORRIS B. REDMANN, JR. MEMORIAL AWARD | Outstanding football letterman with best combined scholarship and athletics | Aidan P. Corbello THE DON FORD AWARD | Best football lineman of the current year | Roland S. Waguespack IV THE DANIEL “RUSTY” STAUB MEMORIAL AWARD | Baseball letterman with exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and spirit | William R. Good THE MOST VALUABLE TENNIS PLAYER AWARD | Tennis athlete who exhibited exemplary leadership and outstanding tournament performance | Nicolas D. Kapusta THE MOST VALUABLE LACROSSE PLAYER AWARD | Senior lacrosse letterman who has exhibited exemplary leadership and having performed in an outstanding manner | Ethan W. Lago THE MOST VALUABLE RUGBY PLAYER AWARD | Senior rugby letterman who has exhibited exemplary leadership and having performed in an outstanding manner | Killian J. Lyon THE MOST VALUABLE BOWLER AWARD | Bowler who best exhibited sportsmanship, leadership, and determination, while also demonstrating a high quality of excellence as a student-athlete | William L. Carpenter IV THE ROBERT T. CASEY MEMORIAL AWARD | Varsity athlete with exemplary sportsmanship and spirit | William M. Sheridan & Hunter C. Oufnac THE LARRY GILBERT FAMILY MEMORIAL AWARD | Best all-around senior athlete on the varsity teams | Jace J. Larsen & Dominic M. LoGiudice THE AWARD FOR ALL-AROUND ATHLETIC ABILITY | Most outstanding ability found in a student-athlete in an individual sport | Jack A. DesRoches

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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OFF THEY GO! Graduates of Jesuit High School’s Class of 2023 are moving on to 65 different institutions of higher learning. Universities or colleges listed in bold under the names of graduates are the institutions they are attending. Students accepted to that school’s honors program are indicated by an (H). The scholarships listed pertain only to that university or college which the graduate has indicated he will attend. Areas of intended study are included in a graph on page 11. Congratulations to Jesuit’s Class of 2023! The information in “Off They Go!” was compiled by Jesuit’s guidance department college counselors from data submitted online by seniors and their parents.

William T. Balart Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award

Ron Z. Blanchard University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award

Charles W. Adams IV Texas State Technical College

Nathan A. Baldi Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Jack A. Ainsworth Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award

Gates P. Barré Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award, Brady Award

Connor G. Boudreaux Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Transformation Merit Award

Andre C. Amedee University of New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award

John R. Barteet University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award, Cypress Scholarship

Quintin P. Amedee Spring Hill College Magis Scholar Award, Rugby Athletic Scholarship

Joshua K. Bastidas Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award

Anthony F. Acosta Loyola University New Orleans TOPS Performance Award, Dean’s Scholarship, LA Resident Scholarship

Trent R. Anderson University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship John H. Anseman Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Sawyer P. Armand University of New Orleans Tyler J. Autin Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Matthew G. Baffes Louisiana Tech University TOPS Performance Award, Outstanding Student Scholarship 6 | JAYNOTES | SPRING / SUMMER 2023

Ethan P. Bauer University of Alabama (H) Ethan P. Benoit Auburn University Academic Presidential Scholarship August J. Berner IV Northwestern State University of Louisiana (H) TOPS Opportunity Award, Presidential Honors, Outstanding Student Award, NSU Award Thomas J. Berthelot University of Connecticut (H) Leadership Scholarship Cale C. Blake Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Edward L. Boudreaux IV University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award Rowan A. Bourdais Undecided Cade M. Bourdonnay University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship, Patterson School of Accountancy Scholarship, Non-Resident Alumni Award John-Michael Bourgeois Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Jackson T. Brandt Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award Ben C. Brannon University of Mississippi Truman A. Breithaupt VII Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Lee E. Bridgewater University of Alabama

OFF THEY GO! Jacques N. Broussard University of Alabama (H) UA Scholar Scholarship, UA Leadership Scholarship Emile G. Bruneau Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Daniel A. Buenano Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Robert A. Buisson Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award, Cross Country Athletic Scholarship Daniel K. Burke University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship, Patterson School of Accountancy Scholarship Blake J. Burmaster Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award, Transformation Merit Award Jacob H. Cabos Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Joseph A. Capo University of Evansville Connor J. Cappo Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Hayden N. Caron University of New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award William L. Carpenter IV University of New Orleans TOPS Honors Award, Provost Scholarship, Rick Phillips Youth Bowling Scholarship Matthew R. Cashio Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales, UK) Rugby Athletic Scholarship Ryan P. Cassioppi University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award George C. Cazabon Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job Joseph R. Charif Spring Hill College John Paul Ciaccio Temple University University Scholar Nolan F. Clark University of Alabama (H) Presidential Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship

Camren J. Claus University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award, Cypress Scholarship Reese S. Cobb Louisiana State University Carson L. Cockrell Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award Aleksander M. Cognevich University of Texas at Austin (H) National Merit Commended John R. Cook V University of Mississippi Koi M. Cooks Dillard University Merit Scholarship Aidan P. Corbello Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Christian R. Courtade Tulane University National Merit Commended TOPS Honors Award, Louisiana Excellence Award Aidan L. Couvillon Boston College National Merit Finalist BC National Merit Scholarship Russell J. Cresson University of Notre Dame Oscar J. Tolmas Memorial Scholarship Matthew C. Cuevas Southeastern Louisiana University TOPS Performance Award, Merit Scholarship Christopher M. Cutitto Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Jayon J. D’Avanzo Employment Maxwell T. Daly University of Notre Dame National Merit Commended Dylan T. Dang Loyola University New Orleans National Merit Commended TOPS Honors Award, Dean’s Scholarship, LA Resident Scholarship, Lagniappe Scholarship Andrew P. Davis University of Alabama (H) National Merit Finalist Presidential Elite Scholar, UA National Merit Finalist Package Donnald C. Davis III Southeastern Louisiana University Colin M. Decker Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Hudson M. Dehon University of Alabama (H) UA Scholar Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship Jack A. DesRoches Vanderbilt University Reese W. Devine Colorado State University Green and Gold Scholarship Thomas L. Doan Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job, LSU St. Bernard Alumni Chapter Scholarship Patrick J. Dowd Dartmouth College National Merit Finalist NMSC Merit Scholarship Noah J. Ducarpe Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award Bennett E. Ducasse University of Alabama Jaron J. Duplessis Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Carter R. Dusang University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship Reid E. Ellzey University of Alabama (H) National Hispanic Recognition Award National Hispanic Recognition Package, Engineering Leadership Scholarship Luis M. Espinoza Boston College National African American & National Hispanic Recognition Award Gabelli Presidential Scholar, BC Stamps Scholar Cornelius D. Evans, Jr. Dillard University Merit Scholarship Remy L. Exnicios Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Scholarship Dylan A. Falcon University of Alabama (H) National Merit Finalist Presidential Elite Scholar, UA National Merit Finalist Package Darlington E. Fee IV Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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OFF THEY GO! Brock M. Guillot Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job, Entergy Community Power Scholarship Henry J. Guste Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Joseph A. Haase Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award William L. Hand Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Kolbe P. Hanemann Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Michael I. Ferguson Louisiana State University (H) National Hispanic Recognition Award TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job, BASF Scholarship Aloka R. Fernando Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award, Transformation Merit Award Scot N. Fisher University of Alabama (H) National Merit Commended Presidential Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship, UA Horizons Endowed Scholarship, LA Elks Assoc. (Lodge #2321) Most Valuable Student Scholarship

Leonardo Y. Garcia Northwestern University National Hispanic Recognition Award LA Elks Assoc. (Lodge # 30) Most Valuable Student Scholarship Brennan M. Gauthreaux Spring Hill College David C. L. Gibbons III University of Mississippi (H) Academic Merit Scholarship, Patterson School of Accountancy Scholarship, Non-Resident Alumni Award Christopher D. Gieseler University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Performance Award, Live Oak Scholarship

Nicolas O. Foley Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award

Luke E. Gilmore Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Scholarship

Jacob R. Foster Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Harrison W. Golemi Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Transformation Merit Award

Hayden A. Frey Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job Evan M. Frischhertz University of Alabama (H) Presidential Scholarship Nicholas M. Frischhertz Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award Joshua A. Fuentes Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award, Transformation Merit Award

8 | JAYNOTES | SPRING / SUMMER 2023

William R. Good Tulane University TOPS Performance Award, Baseball Athletic Scholarship, Academic Merit Scholarship John T. Graham University of Tampa Dean’s Merit Scholarship Anthony J. G. Guernsey Louisiana Tech University TOPS Honors Award, Outstanding Student Scholarship Matthew R. Guilbault Louisiana Tech University (H) TOPS Opportunity Award, Dean’s Scholarship

Christopher W. Hansen Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award Michael A. Harmon Louisiana Tech University TOPS Opportunity Award, Outstanding Student Scholarship Chase V. Haydel Loyola Marymount University (H) National Merit Finalist, National African American Recognition Award Presidential Scholarship, African American Alumni Assoc. Scholarship Dalton P. Haydel University of Virginia (H) National Merit Finalist Jefferson Scholars Foundation Scholarship, Knights of Columbus Catholic Youth Leadership Award, Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Scholarship, Washington Crossing Foundation Scholarship, Burger King Scholar Award Stephen W. Haydel University of New Orleans Grant E. Hebert Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Transformation Merit Award Luke M. Hebert Saint Joseph’s University (H) Presidential Scholarship, Jesuit Preparatory Scholarship, Provost Award Braden R. Helm Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Transformation Merit Award Grant M. Herbert Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award Otto E. Hirstius University of Arizona

OFF THEY GO! Luke J. Hopkins Louisiana State University (H) National Merit Commended TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job, LA Bankers Assoc.

Education Council Scholarship William N. Hudlow Tulane University TOPS Opportunity Award Scout T. Hughes Spring Hill College (H) Presidential Scholarship, Honors College Scholarship Samuel J. Hunter Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Transformation Merit Award Mario A. Interiano Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Kyle D. Jackson Southern Methodist University (H) National Merit Finalist President’s Scholarship, Campus Community Award, NMSC Merit Scholarship Nicholas J. Jacobs Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Alexander J. Jeansonne University of Mississippi Grayson P. Joint University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship, STEM Major Scholarship Mason A. Jubenville University of Louisiana Lafayette Nicolas D. Kapusta Fordham University National Hispanic Recognition Award National Recognition Program Scholarship Nischal S. Kasula Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job Miles P. Kavanaugh Baylor University (H) Hankamer Scholar, Distinguished Scholarship Tre’Shawn J. King University of Louisiana Lafayette

Austin M. Krajcer Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Luke R. Kropog Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Ethan W. Lago University of Utah Utah Flagship Scholarship, Air Force ROTC Scholarship Avery M. LaGraize Delgado Community College Ryan P. LaNasa Spring Hill College Magis Scholar Award Cullen M. Landry University of Alabama (H) Presidential Scholarship Griffin M. Landry Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Michael J. Landry University of Georgia Laurence E. Larmann II University of Mississippi Jace J. Larsen University of South Alabama Chance J. Latham University of New Orleans TOPS Performance Award, Dean Scholarship William M. Lavie Texas Christian University Clifton D. LeBlanc, Jr. Texas Christian University Tommy Moore Memorial Golf Championship Scholarship Matthew J. LeBlanc University of South Alabama Presidential Scholarship Daniel J. Lee Princeton University National Merit Finalist Mason M. Lee Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job

Dominic M. LoGiudice Nicholls State University Killian J. Lyon Texas Christian University (H) Dean’s Scholarship Vanik Makaryan Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award John T. Mann Northeastern University Masen T. Mannina Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award John H. McDaniel University of South Alabama Merit Scholarship, Leadership Scholarship David N. Mejia University of New Orleans Jackson D. Merrill University of Oregon Apex Scholarship Jacob H. Midkiff Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Luke E. Miller Saint Louis University Merit Scholarship, Jesuit High School Award, Higher Purpose Scholarship Grant B. Morris Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award Riley J. Morse Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job Jake B. Morvant Texas Christian University National Merit Finalist Dean’s Scholarship, Academic Achievement Scholarship, TCU National Merit Scholarship Benjamin D. Musgrave Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Maurizio Muzzetto The Citadel

Alexander W. Kloor University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award

Matthew K. Lemoine Louisiana Tech University TOPS Opportunity Award, Outstanding Student Scholarship

Aidan P. Knauf University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship

Owen M. Liantonio Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award

Andrew K. Newell University of Arizona Arizona Excellence Award, Rugby Athletic Scholarship

Zachary E. Knoll University of Southern Mississippi

Jack L. Lo Spring Hill College Presidential Scholarship

Evan T.-B. Nguyen Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award

Andrew L. Nata Delgado Community College

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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OFF THEY GO! Jake H. Nguyen Xavier University of Louisiana TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholarship

Joshua J. Pettus Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award

Kennedy Nguyen Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award

Grant J. Piacun Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award

Matthew P. Nguyen Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job

Bryce A. Pitts Delgado Community College

Tyler H. Nguyen Xavier University of Louisiana TOPS Performance Award, Academic Scholarship James M. Nolan Vanderbilt University National Merit Finalist National Naval ROTC Scholarship, VU National Merit Scholarship Anders G. Olson Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award Garrett P. Orgeron, Jr. Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award Colin H. Oster Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award Hunter C. Oufnac Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award Jake W. Palo University of Alabama (H) UA Scholar Scholarship Alexander M. Patron Spring Hill College Magis Scholar Award Christian M. Pausina University of Alabama (H) National Merit Commended Presidential Scholarship, Engineering Leadership Scholarship David H. Pavlovich University of South Carolina Academic Scholar - Distinction Award Benjamin E. Pennebaker Trinity University Dean’s Scholarship Joao Victor N. Pereira-Leite Loyola University Chicago Dean’s Scholarship, Jesuit Heritage Award William J. Perkins Longwood University Lancer Distinction Award Timothy J. Peterman Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

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Maxwell C. Prechter Louisiana State University (H) National Merit Commended TOPS Honors Award, Flagship Scholars Award Elijah K. Prosper University of Houston Vincent E. Provenzano III Mississippi State University Christopher S. Puckett Mississippi State University Ronnie A. Reeb III Tulane School of Professional Advancement Harris R. Reinhardt Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award, LA Tiger Legacy Superior Scholarship Leon J. Reymond IV University of Notre Dame National Merit Commended Karson A. Rhodes Mississippi State University (H) Academic Excellence Scholarship, Colvard Future Leader Scholarship, Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship Conner J. Richardson Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job Lucas R. Rios University of Southern Mississippi Preston M. Roark Mississippi State University Ethan M. Roberts Louisiana State University (H) National Merit Finalist TOPS Honors Award

Wade S. Rogers Fordham University National Merit Finalist National Recognition Program Scholarship Jack P. Roniger Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Jonathan T. Rouse Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Patrick T. Rowell Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award, Transformation Merit Award, LA Tiger Legacy Merit Scholarship Preston J. Rumney University of Texas at Austin National Merit Finalist Corey E. Sakryd Loyola University New Orleans National Merit Commended Dean’s Scholarship, LA Resident Scholarship Antoine B. Saleun Spring Hill College Ethan M. Schenck University of Alabama (H) Presidential Scholarship Stefan E. Schexnayder Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job Ethan P. Schlosser Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award Gabriel E. R. Schwarz Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job Bjorn S. Seales University of New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award Jack T. Seidell Massachusetts Maritime Academy Captain’s Scholarship William M. Sheridan University of Notre Dame

John M. Roche SUNY Maritime College

Carter W. Smith Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Patrick G. Roddy Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award

Chase M. Smith University of Alabama (H) UA Scholar Scholarship, Patricia Frist Memorial Scholarship

Casey M. Rodriguez Loyola University New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award, Recognition Scholarship, LA Resident Scholarship, Lagniappe Scholarship

Vincent T.-A. Smith Texas A&M University Posse Foundation Leadership Scholarship William L. Soter University of Alabama UA Scholar Scholarship, American Petroleum Institute Scholarship

OFF THEY GO! Jackson A. Stopa Gonzaga University Austin T. Stuke Louisiana Tech University TOPS Performance Award, Outstanding Student Scholarship Asher A. Terrell University of Alabama (H) National Merit Finalist, National Hispanic Recognition Award Presidential Elite Scholar, UA National Merit Finalist Package John M. Thomas Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award, Transformation Merit Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship Jason M. Thompson II University of Mississippi Academic Merit Scholarship Jacob P. Tobler Louisiana State University

Brendan M. Truxillo Holy Cross College Blessed Basil Moreau Award, John O’Connor Eagle Scout Endowed Scholarship

Maxwell D. Weiss Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award, Transformation Merit Award

Derek Tsang Georgetown University National Merit Finalist

Michael P. Welsh University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

James B. Waguespack Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, LA Tiger Legacy Excellence Scholarship, President’s Student Aid Job Roland S. Waguespack IV Dartmouth College Allstate Sugar Bowl Scholarship, b1Bank Scholar Athlete Award

Colin J. Torrance Louisiana State University Matthew A. Tortorich Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award

Peyton W. Warden University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Performance Award, Cypress Scholarship

Benjamin T. Tran Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Honors Award, Academic Scholars Award, President’s Student Aid Job

Joshua P. Washington Mississippi State University

Duy T. Trinh Louisiana State University (H) TOPS Performance Award, Tiger Excellence Scholar Award

Jude A. White Louisiana State University TOPS Performance Award, Transformation Merit Award Kole J. White University of Louisiana Lafayette TOPS Opportunity Award Conner G. Winston Great Lakes Maritime Academy at Northwestern Michigan College

Joshua J. Walker University of Southern Mississippi Gabe A. Walser Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Joseph R. Trask Delgado Community College

Aeric D. Wender Clemson University National Merit Finalist Merit Scholarship

David A. Vasquez University of New Orleans TOPS Opportunity Award

William F.-L. Wolfram Loyola University Chicago Dean’s Scholarship Nicholas M. Woodson Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Kyiori S.-L. Washington Villanova University (H) Posse Foundation Leadership Scholarship, New Orleans Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Scholarship

Philip L. Zazulak Savannah College of Art and Design Academic Honors Scholarship, Achievement Honors Scholarship, State Incentive Scholarship Myles A. Zito Louisiana State University TOPS Opportunity Award

Alexander H. Weeks Louisiana State University TOPS Honors Award, Music Premier Scholarship

WHAT THEY’RE STUDYING NUMBER OUT OF 253 GRADUATES: 50 | Engineering 44 | Business & Administration 23 | Pre-Med, Nursing, & Pharmacy 22 | Finance & Accounting 18 | Computer Science & Software Engineering 16 | Biological & Natural Sciences 12 | Humanities & Social Sciences 11 | Psychology, Kinesiology, & Pre-PT 10 | Law, Criminology, & Political Science 06 | Aeronautics, Aviation, & Maritime 06 | Economics 05 | Art, Design, Music, & Film 01 | Employment 29 | Undecided

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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WHERE THEY’RE GOING Alabama A&M University American University Amherst College Appalachian State University Arizona State University Auburn University (1) Barry University Baylor University (1) Belhaven University Belmont University Berry College Birmingham Southern College Boston College (2) Brown University Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales, UK) (1) Case Western Reserve University Catholic University of America Centenary College of Louisiana Centre College Claflin University Clemson University (1) College of Charleston College of the Holy Cross College of William and Mary Colorado School of Mines Colorado State University (1) Dartmouth College (2) Delgado Community College (4) DePaul University Dillard University (2) Drexel University Edward Waters College Elon University Emory University Fisk University Florida A&M University Florida Institute of Technology Florida State University Fordham University (2) Fort Lewis College Furman University George Mason University George Washington University Georgetown University (1) Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia State University Gonzaga University (1) Grambling State University Great Lakes Maritime Academy at Northwestern Michigan College (1) Hampton University Harris-Stowe State University Hendrix College High Point University Holy Cross College (1) Illinois Wesleyan University Kalamazoo College King’s College (PA) Lipscomb University Longwood University (1) Louisiana State University (98) Louisiana Tech University (6) Loyola Marymount University (1) Loyola University Chicago (2) Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans (4) Lyon College Marquette University

Massachusetts Maritime Academy (1) McNeese State University Miami University-Oxford Michigan State University Millsaps College Mississippi State University (5) Missouri University of Science and Technology Morehouse College New York University Nicholls State University (1) Northeastern University (1) Northwestern State University of Louisiana (1) Northwestern University (1) Oglethorpe University Ohio State University Oklahoma State University Old Dominion University Oregon State University Oxford College of Emory University Pace University Pennsylvania State University Pepperdine University Princeton University (1) Providence College Purdue University Rhodes College Saint Edward’s University Saint Joseph’s University (1) Saint Louis University (1) Samford University Santa Clara University Savannah College of Art and Design (1) Seattle University Seton Hall University Sewanee: The University of the South Southeastern Louisiana University (2) Southern Methodist University (1) Southern University at New Orleans Spring Hill College (8) St. Bonaventure University St. John’s College St. Louis University SUNY Maritime College (1) Temple University (1) Texas A&M University (1) Texas Christian University (4) Texas State Technical College (1) Texas Tech University The American University of Paris The Citadel (1) Trinity College Trinity University (1) Tulane School of Professional Advancement (1) Tulane University (3) United States Air Force Academy University of Akron University of Alabama (18) University of Alabama Birmingham University of Arizona (2) University of Arkansas University of Colorado Boulder University of Connecticut (1) University of Dallas University of Delaware University of Denver University of Evansville (1) University of Florida University of Georgia (1)

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CLASS OF 2023

Fifty-seven percent of students are going to college in-state (144). Forty-three percent of students are going out-of-state (109) .

Blue Jays have accepted $ 8,796,473 in scholarship dollars.

University of Holy Cross University of Houston (1) University of Illinois University of Kansas University of Kentucky University of Louisiana Lafayette (11) University of Louisiana Monroe University of Maryland Eastern Shore University of Miami University of Michigan University of Mississippi (12) University of New Hampshire University of New Orleans (9)

On the map below are listed the 173 colleges and universities to which the graduates of the Class of 2023 were accepted. Schools listed in bold are the 65 institutions they are attending with the number of attendees in parentheses.

This year’s “long distance award” goes to Matthew Cashio who is traveling more than 4,500 miles to attend Cardiff Metropolitan University in Cardiff, Wales, UK.

The largest contingent, 98 Blue Jays, is destined for Louisiana State University.

SCOTLAND

UNITED KINGDOM IRELAND

ENGLAND

WALES

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (1) University of Notre Dame (4) University of Oklahoma University of Oregon (1) University of Pittsburgh University of San Francisco University of South Alabama (3) University of South Carolina (1) University of Southern Mississippi (3)

University of Tampa (1) University of Tennessee University of Texas at Austin (2) University of Texas at Dallas University of Utah (1) University of Vermont University of Virginia (1) University of Wisconsin-Madison Vanderbilt University (2)

Villanova University (1) Virginia Polytechnic Institute Washington and Lee University West Virginia University William & Mary University Xavier University (OH) Xavier University of Louisiana (2)

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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CLASS OF 2023

The State of the Blue Jay Address “All year,” Student Council president Ronald Waguespack told the student body, “and all around us, the number 175 loomed large: a testament to our storied tradition and the magnitude of Jesuit’s success. This insignia makes me feel insignificant in the grand scheme of Blue Jay history. It unites all the past and present triumphs of our school into a single “J“ wrapped in a banner.”

To hear Waguespack’s rousing “State of the Blue Jay” address, scan the code below.

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A C A D E M I C R E S U LT S

Eight More Blue Jays Claim the “36er” Moniker

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ver the past five years during the Class of 2023’s time at Jesuit, Blue Jays have scored above a 30 on the ACT® an outstanding 1,214 times. For context, no peer school in the area has attained more than 175 reported comparable ACT® scores in that time period.

“The secret to Jesuit’s sustained academic success isn’t a secret at all,” said Fr. John Brown, S.J., Jesuit’s president. “These accomplishments are the result of our classically grounded liberal arts curriculum, the tireless dedication of the most inspiring and talented faculty members I know, the hard work and passion of our students, and the support and love of Blue Jay families and family members.”

Scored from 1–36, the ACT® is a standardized college entrance assessment, and students who score above a 30 are considered to be the top 90th percentile of the nation’s test takers. Students can take the test more than once, and these 30-orgreater scores were earned by about 550 individual Blue Jays.

In this same time period, 28 Jesuit students have also scored a 36 on the ACT®, placing them in the top 99.7% of all high school students in the United States. Of those eight students four were seniors— Kyle Jackson, Jake Morvant, Preston Rumney, and Wade Rogers —and four were juniors— John Calhoun, Peter Le, David Paul, and James Sundell. Attaining a 36 on the ACT is a major academic accolade for an individual student, and on a given

year approximately 5,000 students in the country earn a 36 out of 1,200,000 who take the test.

“While we say it in one way or another year-in and year-out,” Fr. Brown continued, “it’s worth repeating that academic excellence is a by-product of Jesuit’s educational philosophy, not its true goal. A strong

academic foundation is one way that we equip students to become sharp tools in God’s hands—to become, in other words, competent men for others—to transform the world for His greater glory.” 

’23

1,214

’23

SCORES OVER 30

KYLE JACKSON

ON THE

JAKE MORVANT

Son of

ACT® IN FIVE YEARS

David & Donna Jackson

Son of Drew & Dayna Morvant

Attended Christian Brothers School

Attended Christian Brothers School

’23

’23

’24

PRESTON RUMNEY

WADE ROGERS

JOHN CALHOUN

Son of

Son of

Son of

Richard & Stacey Rumney

Paul & Perry Rogers

John & Danielle Calhoun

Attended Christian Brothers School

Attended The Willow School New Orleans formerly Lusher Charter

Attended Stuart Hall School for Boys

’24

PETER LE

’24

DAVID PAUL

’24

JAMES SUNDELL

Son of

Son of

Son of

Charlie Le & Gina Nguyen

Akkara & Smitha Paul

Jenny & Erik Sundell

Attended Christian Brothers School

Attended St. Catherine of Siena School

Attended Stuart Hall School for Boys

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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A C A D E M I C R E S U LT S

Mock Trial Triumphs on National Stage

The Mock Trial team (top row from left) Ben Tran, Preston Rumney, Asher Terrell, Wade Rogers, and (bottom row from left) Dalton Haydel, Daniel Lee, and Jake Morvant

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n a remarkable display of legal acumen, the Mock Trial team capped off a successful season with a stellar national performance. After claiming victory in the state championship, the team traveled to Little Rock, Arkansas, and made an impressive seventhplace finish at national competition.

This achievement equals a previous record set by Jesuit’s 2009 team and represents the highest placement by any Louisiana team in the competition’s history.

Held at the Jefferson Parish courthouse in Gretna, the state championship saw the Blue Jays overcome Central High School in a nail-biting final round. Made up of senior attorneys Dalton Haydel, Wade Rogers, Preston Rumney, and Asher Terrell along with witnesses Daniel Lee, Jake Morvant, and Ben Tran, the team that travelled to nationals was led to victory by the seasoned guidance of alumni coaches Brett Wise ’82, Mike Mentz ’74, Nick Mole ’01, Brandon Long ’95, Jordan Lacoste ’14, and faculty moderator Greg Ernst ’83. Individual commendations were also awarded, with special mention of senior Preston Rumney named “best attorney.”

The national stage proved a stern test of both skill and resolve.

The team, after an initial practice round against the eventual national champion Iowa, emerged more focused and determined. The team’s campaign included clean sweeps against Missouri and Mississippi, split ballot wins against Michigan, and a split ballot loss to Nevada.

Coach Wise praised the entire team for pulling their weight, with each member making significant contributions. From Rumney’s passionate opening statements to 16 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

Terrell’s expert cross-examinations and Haydel’s vital closing arguments, the team showcased a comprehensive understanding of the law.

Even before the state and national triumphs, the Mock Trial team demonstrated excellence, claiming the highest local regular season score out of 12 competing teams.

The journey to nationals led the graduating seniors to miss their scheduled Baccalaureate Mass. In

response, Jesuit organized a private Mass in the second-floor chapel, specifically for Mock Trial team members and their families.

Reflecting on the journey, Wise observed, “It’s a bit of an emotional tug to say goodbye to such a fantastic group who has been doing this so well for so long. They all have great and challenging things in store for them. To quote the traditional Navy farewell, ‘may you have fair winds and a following sea.’” 

A C A D E M I C R E S U LT S (left, top) The Academic Games team from left to right, coach Jordan Holmer ’12, Christian Smith, Cruz Ledet, Max Bartlett, Jacob Rudloff, Wade Rogers, Mason Becker, and Parker Alig; (bottom left) Wade Rogers with his first-place Current Events social studies trophy and second-place overall sweepstakes trophy; (bottom right) Max Bartlett with his first-place On-sets mathematics trophy

Blue Jays Soar to Success at National Academic Games Tournament

T

he Jesuit Academic Games team had a terrific season, demonstrating exceptional skill at the National Academic Games Tournament in Orlando on April 21. The accolades accrued by Jesuit’s senior division team echo the

drive and talent cultivated throughout the season.

The senior division team, made up of Parker Alig, Max Bartlett, Mason Becker, Wade Rogers, and Christian Smith, secured an impressive thirdplace finish in the mathematics

game of On-Sets and fourth in Current Events. The team’s collective success led to an overall sixth place sweepstakes finish. The tournament also saw individual successes, with Bartlett winning a national title in On-Sets, and Rogers claiming victory in Current Events.

Jesuit’s younger members shone brightly as well, with pre-freshman Cruz Ledet earning second-place in Equations. Other students like pre-freshman Jacob Rudloff and junior Dylan Patel competed enthusiastically, showcasing the depth of talent within Jesuit’s ranks.

Reflecting on the season, coach Jordan Holmer ’12 expressed immense pride in the team’s accomplishments.

“These young men truly embodied Jesuit’s intellectual spirit, combining rigorous study with collaboration and creativity. Their success at the national level reflects the excellence of our Academic Games program,” he said.

The National Academic Games Tournament is a prestigious event, featuring competitions that cover subjects such as mathematics, social studies, language arts, and political and cultural knowledge. The games included Presidents, a study of U.S. presidential history; On-Sets, focusing on Set Theory; Propaganda, highlighting techniques of persuasion; Equations, known as The Game of Creative Mathematics; and Current Events, connecting students with recent political and cultural happenings.

The team’s performance at the national level not only underscores the strength of its Academic Games program but also sets a high bar for future teams, affirming and reinforcing Jesuit’s strong academic tradition even outside the classroom.” 

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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N E W S TA FF M E M B E R S

JEAN-PAUL PERRILLIAT ’03 Senior Development Officer Office of Institutional Advancement Jean-Paul Perrilliat ’03 is joining the Office of Institutional Advancement to serve as the school’s new Senior Development Officer.

Perrilliat works primarily alongside the Major Gifts Officer and Executive Development

MELISSA JURISICH Communications Specialist Office of Institutional Advancement The Development Office is also proud to add Melissa Jurisich to the institutional advancement team. As Communications Specialist, Melissa supports the effort to create and distribute digital media, print

LISA WINNINGKOFF Controller, Office of Finance As Controller, Lisa Winningkoff will support all accounting operational functions, handle the accumulation and consolidation of financial data for internal and external financial statements, evaluate accounting and internal control systems, and implement strategic initiatives across school departments. She also has a background

ALEX NORMAN Director of Security, Office of the President As Director of Security, Alex Norman has responsibility for all security activities of the school, including the administration, maintenance, and enhancement of policies

PAUL “MACK” HENRY Maintenance & Lawn Care Facilities Paul Henry is the newest member of our Facilities team and will be assisting with several tasks around our many buildings, as

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Coordinator to cultivate and solicit gifts, assist in managing alumni relations, research and organize prospective and current donors, and communicate the image of Jesuit High School as the premier Catholic secondary school in Louisiana. Jean-Paul comes to Jesuit from Tulane University School of Medicine, where he worked both with major gifts and alumni relations. 

media, and general messaging that promotes the school’s values, engages stakeholders, and recognizes accomplishment to shape perception, build relationships, and attract prospective families and supporters in an ongoing conversation regarding the school’s life. She comes to Jesuit after ten years of running her own photography and graphic design studio. 

in HR and will eventually be contributing to certain HR functions as well. Lisa is a CPA who joins us after a diverse 24-year corporate career with Stewart Enterprises where she held a variety of positions across Accounting, Treasury, Human Resources, Payroll, Compliance, Risk Management, and Training. Following her corporate career, she became a small business owner in the professional services sector. 

and procedures to assure the safety of all property, people, and assets of Jesuit. Alex retired from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in 2017 after over 25 years of service and has also been employed as the Director of Support Services at Touro Hospital and the Director of Security for Jefferson Parish government. 

well as with the school’s lawn care. He comes to Jesuit from holding several facilities-related roles at Tulane University and East Jefferson Hospital. 

Finding the Faith in Foreign Lands History teacher Wade Trosclair ’07 participated this summer in a week-long study tour of the European Union for teachers in Brussels and a 12-day teacher tour of Egypt. Thanks to support from Jesuit’s Athanasius Kircher Fund, he was able to gain first-hand knowledge to enrich his students’ classroom experience.

I

finally found it. Having navigated through the chaotic streets of Alexandria, Egypt, I arrived at St. Mark’s Cathedral. An important sight in Christian history and the spiritual center of Egypt’s Coptic Christian community today, it was here that St. Mark established a church in the first century, bringing Christianity to Egypt for the first time. In 828 Venetian merchants stole St. Mark’s body and smuggled it out of Alexandria, hiding it under pork from the Muslim custom officials.

They brought his remains back home to Venice where still today St. Mark is the city’s patron saint and the winged Lion of St. Mark remains the city’s symbol. Because I have been to the Basilica of St. Mark in Venice and because I like telling this story in my class every year, I made an impromptu decision to use a little free time our tour group had to check out St. Mark’s Cathedral.

As I approached the entrance, I barely noticed the armed security personnel and the metal detector I had walked through. (When you visit Egypt, you quickly get used to them at hotels and tourist attractions.)

“Passport,” said a man sitting in the entryway. I fumbled getting it out and showed it to him, but to my surprise he wanted to keep it. He pointed to his badge. I had read perhaps too much about scams and tourist traps in Egypt before my trip, and I was definitely not comfortable handing over my passport.

I walked away confused by the awkward encounter and retreated a few blocks to the Mediterranean.

Sitting at the edge of the ancient harbor, I looked up St. Mark’s on my phone. Tourists reported that they were also asked for their passports and that they were returned to them when they left the cathedral. Our tour guide – who is a Coptic Christian – later confirmed that security is tight there and for good reason: on Palm Sunday in 2017, the cathedral was attacked by an ISIS suicide bomber, resulting in the deaths of 17 people and dozens more being wounded.

This one brief experience made me reflect on how different the NEW ORLEANS |

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

RU

SSEL S

B

AA

CHEN

IS

TA N BUL

CAIRO

Christian experience is in Egypt from Western Europe, where I had spent the previous two weeks. Throughout my travels this summer, when finding the faith in foreign lands, what I found was a Christianity that perseveres.

In Egypt, where Coptic Christians are about 10% of the population, the faith remains strong despite centuries of discrimination and intermittent attacks, like the one at St. Mark’s six years ago. You do not have to struggle to find reminders of martyrdom and persecution at Egypt’s Coptic sights.

In Cairo, for example, the Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church is named 20 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

for two fourth-century Christian soldiers martyred by the Romans and is built over the spot where it is believed the Holy Family briefly lived to save baby Jesus from King Herod’s wrath.

On the drive back to Cairo from Alexandria, our tour group stopped at the remote Monastery of St. Macarius, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world that is named after the fourth-century hermit and monk who founded it.

Father Marcorios, one of the 120 monks who resides there, gave us a tour of the complex that includes a

small stronghold. Centuries ago, if the monastery was attacked, the pacifist monks could retreat here, raise the drawbridge, and hold out within, supplied with water from a well inside.

In the early days of St. Macarius, a raid by desert Berbers had resulted in the deaths of 49 monks who are remembered and prayed for still today in the monastery’s Chapel of the Forty-Nine Martyrs.

In Western Europe, on the other hand, where Christianity is the religion of the majority, church attendance has declined drastically over the years. Adherence to the faith,

WADE TROSCLAIR ’07

however, still persists among a small minority. Belgium is a largely Catholic country, but relatively few people are practicing Catholics. This is a fact that can be seen even in institutions like St. John Berchmans College, a fellow Jesuit college preparatory school in Brussels that I enjoyed visiting.

There are interesting similarities and differences between our two schools.

For example, while both maintain an Ignatian identity through a focus on cura personalis and service, many of the 800 students at St. John Berchmans are not practicing Catholics. Only about 16 attend Mass regularly at the

chapel on campus.

From the Belgian capital I took a day trip to Aachen, which lies just across the border in Germany.

As someone who teaches medieval history, I wanted to visit what was once the center of Charlemagne’s Carolingian Empire in the early 9th century. What I did not realize, though, until a couple of months before I left, was that I would be visiting during the Aachen Pilgrimage. This 10-day event has occurred every seven years since 1349 and was postponed to this summer because of COVID. The pilgrimage,

which over 100,000 people took part in this year, centers on four relics that are ceremoniously removed from a reliquary and publicly displayed. Said to have been gifted to Charlemagne, they are believed to be the cloth that held the head of John the Baptist, the dress Mary wore when she gave birth to Jesus, his swaddling clothes, and the loincloth he wore on the cross.

While in Aachen, I was surprised by not just how many people arrived throughout the course of the day, but also by the large number of young people who were taking part in this tradition.

As I took note of the history and diversity of the Christian experience during my travels, perhaps nothing more symbolized for me the perseverance of the faith than something I encountered during my last stop. Built in the sixth century, the massive, domed Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey was for almost a thousand years an Orthodox Christian church. In 1453, when the Muslim Turks conquered what was then the city of Constantinople, they converted the Hagia Sophia into a mosque, which it remained until the Turkish government made it a museum in the 1930s. In 2020, the current Turkish government made the controversial decision to reconvert the Hagia Sophia back into a mosque.

While exploring this important sight for both Orthodox Christians and Muslims, I almost missed seeing a ninth-century Byzantine mosaic of Mary with the infant Jesus on her lap.

The mihrab (the niche in a mosque wall that notes the direction of Mecca, and thus the direction in which Muslims pray) sits below this image, so the government had moveable curtains installed that could cover it when the Hagia Sophia closes five times a day for prayer. When I visited, the curtains still partially covered the Virgin and Child, yet they peered through like Christianity throughout the world persisting despite the challenges it faces.” 

WADE TROSCLAIR ’07

Jesuit Social Studies Teacher

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

A Journey Through Ignatian Roots Justin Genovese ’04 and Paul Hatty’s Pilgrimage in Spain and Italy

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n the early light of a Spanish summer day, Justin Genovese ’04 and Paul Hatty stood quietly at the edge of Loyola, the birthplace of Ignatius. The tranquil atmosphere, punctuated by the distant tolling of a church bell, encouraged a sense of profound reflection. Having arrived in Spain two days earlier, they were poised to embark on a lived journey through the roots of Ignatian spirituality.

Genovese, a guidance counselor and student council moderator, and Hatty, a world history teacher and football coach, are more than just

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dedicated educators at Jesuit. They also share a commitment to personal and spiritual growth. Their journey was financed by Jesuit’s Athanasius Kircher Fund, aimed at supporting faculty members keen to deepen their understanding of the Jesuit mission.

The pilgrimage retraced the footsteps of St. Ignatius of Loyola, providing Genovese and Hatty an opportunity to delve into the historical and spiritual contexts of the Jesuit tradition. “This was a surprising invitation that offered immense possibilities,” recalled Genovese.

Despite being close colleagues, the duo had never spent time

together outside Jesuit. “We quickly moved from surprise to excitement,” Genovese said. “Each day was a fresh awe-inspiring experience,” Hatty added.

Beginning in Madrid, the pilgrimage took them to Azpeitia in the Basque country, home to Loyola Castle. Stops included Arevalo and Burgos, places directly linked to the Jesuit heritage. Arevalo offered insights into the formative years of St. Ignatius, while Burgos shed light on the intellectual foundations of the Jesuit order.

“Loyola Castle was awe-inspiring,” Genovese said. “You gain a whole new

J U S T I N G E N OV E S E ’ 0 4 & PAU L H AT T Y

perspective when you are physically present in such historical sites.” The castle and its surrounding architecture served as a tangible link to Ignatius’s transformation and commitment to the service of God. The trip, although demanding, was profoundly rewarding. “We were standing where Ignatius once stood,” said Genovese. “Those connections result in deep insights and spiritual growth.” Fr. Barton Geger, S.J., described the pilgrimage as filled with “spiritual time bombs,” experiences that would continue to unfold and reveal their significance over time.

Shared experiences in historically

significant locations, like Manresa and Montserrat, further deepened their bond and understanding of Ignatius.

“It was overwhelming to be in the places where Ignatius had his spiritual revelations,” said Genovese.

The pilgrimage also offered a nuanced view of Ignatius’s life.

“Understanding his transformation from a vain soldier to a humble servant of God made his story even more remarkable,” Genovese noted.

Upon their return to New Orleans, the journey’s transformative power persisted. “It’s about integrating what we learned into our daily lives,” said Genovese, emphasizing that the

pilgrimage provided him with new tools for enhancing his teaching and relationships at Jesuit.

As both educators continue to reflect on their experience, the impact of the pilgrimage resonates on multiple levels. Genovese concluded, “We’ve returned with a deeper understanding of Ignatius, a greater appreciation for the Ignatian way of proceeding, and a renewed commitment to living these principles in our personal lives and work at Jesuit.” 

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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COMMENCEMENT LUNCHEON

“‘Toxic masculinity’ does not exist. Anger, violence, drunkenness, a lack of selfcontrol, and bullying are not masculine. Masculinity is using one’s strength, intelligence, courage, and skill to protect and to provide for the vulnerable with self-control.”

Class of 2023 Welcomed into Alumni Association at Commencement Luncheon

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Fr. Anthony McGinn, S.J. ’66 Addresses Seniors

n April 28, over 500 alumni and seniors packed the Celestin Ballroom at the Hyatt Regency for the twentieth annual Commencement Luncheon welcoming the Class of 2023 to the Alumni Association.

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including many fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and brothers of the honored class.

After being welcomed by Jesuit president Fr. John Brown, S.J., and alumni director Michael Prados ’83, the alumni and 253 young men preparing to join their ranks enjoyed lunch and pleasant conversation in an

(above) Fr. Anthony McGinn, S.J. ’66 gives his address to the soon-to-be graduates. (opposite, clockwise) Senior Harrison Golemi enters the Regency ballroom with the rest of his classmates; Senior George Cazabon with Christopher Watermeier ’89; Senior Manny Espinoza with his father Luis Espinoza; Seniors and alums alike sit down to enjoy lunch; Rick Redmann ’85 with his sons Richard ’12, Ryan ’16, and Rowley ’17; Alumni William Lo ’90 and Roland Waguespack III ’92; Greg Tilton ’70 chats with fellow alums

elegant setting. At the conclusion of the meal, principal Peter Kernion ’90 provided an update on the school year followed by an introduction by senior class president Jack Lo of the guest speaker, Fr. Anthony McGinn, S.J. ’66.

As both a scholastic and a priest, Fr. McGinn served his alma mater for nearly 30 years in roles including

FR. ANTHONY MCGINN, S.J. ’66

teacher, moderator, principal, and president. He is currently the pastor of Immaculate Conception parish downtown.

Fr. McGinn began by claiming, “I ordinarily speak very briefly, and you’re going to be disappointed if you’re expecting a brief speech.” His 23-minute speech did not disappoint.

Acknowledging that an alumnus who would have addressed him in their position would have graduated

in the year 1908, he said, “I have to make sure that I say something important.” He then pointed out that “even though life has changed over the past 50 years, truth has not changed.”

He encouraged the seniors to develop three virtues: gratitude to counteract victimhood, humility to counteract perfectionism, and fidelity to the truth, to who they are, and in their relationships. His examples and explanations were insightful and

inspirational to Blue Jays of all ages.

The program concluded with a closing prayer by Jesuit’s chaplain Fr. Jon Polce, S.J., and the singing of the alma mater led by senior Alex Weeks.

This year’s luncheon was again made possible by presenting sponsor Hancock Whitney. The 2024 Commencement Luncheon is scheduled for May 3. All Jesuit alumni are invited to attend. 

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SUPERIOR GENERAL DIEGO LAÍNEZ

BY DAVID M. PRADOS ’75

(opposite, top) Some of the cast of Jesuit’s portrayal of “Companions”— (left to right) Chris LaMothe as Nicolas Bobadilla; junior Alex Grilletta as Alfonso Salmeron; Herbert Spurlock ’14 as Francisco Xavier; Jeremy Reuther ’01 as Iñigo Loyola; Michael Prados ’83 as Diego Laínez; Peter Flores ’09 as Pierre Favre. and junior Albert Favalora as Simon Rodriguez (opposite, bottom) Michael Prados ’83 as Diego Laínez

DIEGO LAÍNEZ

O

n September 29, 2022, members of the Jesuit faculty performed a staged reading of Fr. Ernest Ferlita, S.J.’s play, “Companions,” about Ignatius Loyola’s formation of the Society of Jesus. One of the stories told therein is that of Diego Laínez, one of Ignatius’ first six “companions.” Laínez became a close confidant of Loyola’s and after his death succeeded him as Superior General. Diego Laínez is credited

with transitioning the Society forward during that period, particularly in steering its mission towards teaching.

Laínez was born in Spain in 1512.

His family were conversos, “New Christians,” converts to Christianity originally of Jewish origin. His great-grandfather had converted from Judaism to Christianity four generations earlier. His parents, Juan Laínez and Isabel Gómez de Léon, were pious citizens of the small town of Almazán in Old Castille in northcentral Spain. It is unknown whether they were noble or only wealthy middle-class. His brothers and sisters included three priests and a nun. His family’s Jewish origins mattered not to Ignatius, who held no prejudice against conversos, but looked at each person for himself and was keenly aware of Christianity’s Judaic roots.

Laínez has been described as having a pale forehead, flaming eyes, and an aquiline nose over an imperious mouth, embodying meditative ardor and focused ambition. He was known as a passionate and fiery preacher,

theologian, professor, and diplomat.

One can see his visage in stained glass in the small chapel on the second floor in the right-hand large panel behind the altar.

Laínez was studying at the University of Alcalá in Spain when he first heard of Iñigo de Loyola, a fellow Spaniard who was then studying and preaching in Paris. After graduation, Laínez went to Paris to continue his studies in philosophy. By mid-1533 he was seeking out Ignatius in the Latin Quarter, not yet having met him, but only having heard of his work. Other young students were also drawn to Loyola’s spiritual teachings and “exercises.”

After joining with Ignatius, the seven members of the founding group lived in the Latin Quarter, meeting regularly to discuss their philosophical and religious ideas in spirited debates.

Laínez said that although they did not all live together, they would frequently eat and deliberate together, cementing their bond and leading to their pronouncing vows of poverty and chastity in 1534 in a chapel in

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DIEGO LAÍNEZ Montmartre, Paris. This scene is portrayed in the chapel window, supra. They also committed to making a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to preach.

Ignatius left Paris for Italy in 1535. In 1537 Laínez and others met him in Venice, from where they intended to go to Rome to ask the Pope’s blessing to travel to the Holy Land. While waiting they nursed the sick and leprous in Venice’s hospitals and preached throughout northern Italy. Due to ongoing conflicts with the Turks in Palestine, travel there was not possible. However, Ignatius did meet with the Pope, who gave him permission in 1540 to form the Society of Jesus under his protection and to work in Rome instead of Jerusalem. The initial purpose of the Society was to be at the Pope’s discretion to go and preach where he directed.

Laínez preached in France, Italy, and Germany supporting Ignatius.

He has been compared to St. Paul: “A fighter and leader of fighters, a man indisputably great, worthy of his leader, and most assuredly regarded

by Loyola … as his greatest follower.”

At the invitation of Pope Paul III, Laínez was the confessor to the Pope’s grandson’s, Ottavio Farnese’s, wife, Margaret of Parma, illegitimate daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. The task had political as well as religious implications. Laínez later became Provincial in northern Italy. He also taught scholastic theology at La Sapienza University of Rome.

Sent by Ignatius at Pope Paul III’s request to the Council of Trent in 1545, Laínez spoke forcefully as one of the “Pope’s theologians” against the reformist ideas of Lutheranism. His expositions of church doctrine were so persuasive that they were included in the record of the proceedings. After the Council was suspended in 1547 due to a plague epidemic, it resumed in Trent in 1551, when Laínez now clashed with the Dominicans, who opposed the “sect” of the “Iñiguists,” as Loyola’s followers were known.

Ignatius died of complications from numerous maladies in 1556.

Laínez was his choice to take over

leadership of the Order. Laínez first acted as Vicar General before being elected in 1558 on the first ballot as the Second Superior General of the Society of Jesus. After succeeding Ignatius, Laínez attended a third session of the Council of Trent in 1562, where he was introduced as the “generalis jesuitarum,” advancing the usage of “Jesuits” to refer to Ignatius’ Company. Following the death of Pope Paul IV in 1559, many cardinals proposed Laínez for Pope, but he refused to be considered and secretly left Rome to avoid it. There would not be a Jesuit Pope until over 450 years later when Pope Francis was elected in 2013.

Laínez served as director of the Society for nine years from 1556 until his death in Rome in 1565. He was buried in the Church of the Madonna Della Strada in Rome before his remains were returned to Spain in 1667.

Laínez was instrumental in incorporating into the Society’s primary focus of missionizing that of teaching. For Ignatius, teaching the catechism was a form of preaching rather than a system of enlightening minds. He did not originally intend for teaching to be among the Jesuits’ goals. The well-known work of another of the seven initial companions, St. Francis Xavier, exemplifies this missionary root.

The original Jesuit schools opened in Italy and elsewhere were intended to educate and develop new Jesuit recruits, but eventually expanded to encompass lay students. Laínez ordered that Jesuits must teach at some point in their careers, making ministry in schools an important directive. His secretary wrote on his behalf to the Superiors of the Society: “There are two ways of helping our neighbors: one is in the colleges by the education of youth in letters, learning, and Christian life. The other is to help all universally through preaching, [hearing] confessions, and all the other means in accord with our customary way of proceeding.”

Teaching has been an integral part of the Jesuit mission since then. Diego Laínez was its first champion. 

SPIRITUALIT Y

A Timeless Tradition Reborn: Corpus Christi Procession Led by Sodality

T

he afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the streets of New Orleans—streets that were awash with a sea of faithful.

The bell of the Holy Name Church tolled at 4 p.m. on June 10, marking the beginning of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. This moment represented more than just a passive observance of an ancient feast; it was an extraordinary demonstration of faith, community, and tradition led, in part, by the students of Jesuit’s Sodality.

For many years, Eucharistic processions on Corpus Christi had been absent from Uptown New Orleans. However, this year marked

a renaissance of this time-honored tradition, thanks to the initiative of the Sodality Congress Executive Committee.

“With the Congress being held on the day of Corpus Christi, we thought that it would be a wonderful devotion to have a Eucharistic procession, which is the traditional practice for that Solemnity,” said Fr. Joseph Hill, S.J., a key player in planning this event.

The “Congress” to which Fr. Hill referred was the National Sodality Congress 2023, and the event included a congregation of Sodalities from across the Central and Southern Province of the Society

of Jesus. Among the 78 registered participants, Blue Jay Sodalists were entrusted with leading the procession, an honor signifying their commitment to fostering a spirit of service and dedication to the Church.

Under the guidance of Fr. Jon Polce, S.J., and with sonorous melodies provided by Jeff Miraflor, S.J., the young Sodalists led the procession from Holy Name Church to the shrine of Our Lady of Prompt Succour.

The Uptown procession, while bearing a distinctly New Orleans character, mirrored an annual Vatican tradition in which the Pope processes from St. John Lateran to St. Mary

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A TIMELESS TR ADITION REBORN

Fr. Jon Polce, S.J., carries the monstrance displaying the consecrated host. (below) A lithography of the feast of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ procession by unknown artist F.M.S (1889) (opposite) The procession continues past the University of Loyola on St. Charles Avenue.

Major. Over the years, Sodalities have organized and led Eucharistic processions in many cities in Europe and Latin America.

The Sodality’s roots trace back to 1563 when the concept was pioneered by Belgian scholastic, Jan Leunis, S.J. The primary aim was to cultivate personal interior lives and apostolic activities among students.

Sodalities sprung up throughout Jesuit institutions worldwide, fostering Catholic life through special exercises 30 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

under an ecclesiastical superior.

Jesuit’s Sodality, carrying the torch of this long-standing tradition, demonstrated exceptional organization and leadership skills during the procession. Pride in their school and commitment to their faith were evident in their eyes and in their actions.

Fr. Hill expressed gratitude for the participants and acknowledged their efforts, saying, “We gather together to support one another in living a Christ-

like life and in being formed for the mission of evangelization. Thank you for your presence here and for your witness to Christ as a Sodalist.”

The school’s Sodalists embodied what “men of faith” look like in the spiritual battleground of the modern world. Indeed, the procession was more than a mere revisiting of an old custom—it was a vibrant display of faith and tradition, values fundamental to the Jesuit High School community and the New Orleans

CORPUS CHRISTI PROCESSION

Catholic community at large.

Cardinal Sean O’Malley, a Sodalist himself, provided key engagement with a heartfelt video message, while Fr. Hill’s extensive experience in spiritual formation was instrumental in organizing the Congress. Intellectual rigor was added

by Fr. Matthew Baugh, S.J., holder of the Philosophy & Letters Chair in Catholicism and Community at Saint Louis University. The procession was guided by the experienced spiritual

leadership of Fr. Polce, while Jesuit President Fr. John Brown, S.J., delivered a deeply impactful keynote address on the devotion to The Blessed Mother. Further depth was provided by the intriguing academic pursuits of Fr. Sylvester Tan, S.J., and the invaluable historical context from Fr. Michael Maher, S.J. Scholastic John Guerra, S.J. ’14, brought an inspiring personal testimony, and the viewpoints of laypersons such as Jay Williams, Bree

Higginbotham, Alex Scalco ’14, Corey James ’13, Jackson Graham, William Cueto, David Fernandez, Stephanie Morris, and Erik Vieira greatly amplified the event through their own contributions. These multifaceted speakers and contributors, through their shared experience and expertise, enhanced the Congress, showcasing the dynamic and richly textured fabric of the Sodality community. 

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THE PHILELECTIC SOCIETY

PHILS ENTERTAIN WITH SPRING MUSICAL The Something Rotten cast convenes in a circle for the pre-show ritual, as choreographer Kenneth “Kenny” Beck ’79 proficiently readies them for their imminent performance, offering a final word of encouragement. (opposite, top to bottom) Sophomore David Hulefeld stars as Nick Bottom; Prefreshman Peter Favalora back stage with the other members of the Tech Crew; Keshaun Tervalon leads as 'The Minstrel' in the full Something Rotten ensemble 32 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

SOMETHING ROTTEN

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B LU E J AY B A N D

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SPRING CONCERT

BAND DELIGHTS WITH SPRING CONCERT Senior Luke Gilmore delivered a dynamic performance at the annual Spring Concert and Awards Ceremony.

The auditorium of Jesuit High School was filled with the resonating music from the Blue Jay Band. (opposite, top to bottom) Freshman Harrison Evans is seen performing on the electric bass; Junior Mark Johnson performs a solo on flügelhorn; Under the expert leadership of Band Director Joe Caluda ’79, the concert band delivers an exceptional performance JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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B LU E J AY B A Z A A R

Bazaar Happenings

F

r. John Brown, S.J., kicked off the

Blue Jay Bazaar with a blessing, followed by the welcome ceremony led by Jesuit’s MCJROTC. The Bazaar, presented by Reliant Recycling, featured entertainment from Dead End, Where Y’acht, Blue Jay Jazz Band, Jayettes, Cheerleaders, and Philelectic Society.

Attendees enjoyed a delightful array of food, live music, games, and performances throughout the event.

The success of the Bazaar was due to the hard work and dedication of a team of volunteers led by Bazaar chair Michelle Ellzey, Food chairs Judy Kelley and Jessica Hughes, and Game and Booth chairs Sumer Simone and Mariela Manzanares. 

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PRESENTING SPONSOR

CARROLLTON AVE. SPONSOR

S. SOLOMON ST. SPONSORS

THE HAMMER FAMILY

BANKS ST. STAGE SPONSORS

SOUVENIR CUP SPONSORS

East Jefferson Emergency Physicians

KOOZIE SPONSORS

T-SHIRT SLEEVE SPONSORS

T-SHIRT SPONSORS

The Bensel Family

The Falcon Family

BOOTH SPONSORS Aesthetic Surgical Associates

East Jefferson Emergency Physicians

MSI

The Kehoe Family

Amy Falcon State Farm Agency

Helm Paint + Decorating

The Cecola Family

The Wilder + Jack Maguire Booth

Bourgeois Bennett

Kate & Etienne Balart

The Fee Family

Tufton Family Dentistry

Castellon Pharmacy

Mark’s Mid-City Service Station

The Golemi & Espinoza Families

Unitech Body + Paint

SPONSOR BOARD SPONSORS David M. Gernhauser, Jr. • Mark’s Mid-City Service Station JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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B LU E J AY B A Z A A R

BAZAAR COOKOFF A delectable close-up of Bussin’ Banks Street Tacos preparing their winning signature dish, Banks Street Brisket Tacos, showcasing expertly sliced portions of steak. (below) President Fr. John Brown, S.J., presents the cookoff winners with their trophies.

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Laissez Les Bon Temps Blue Jay Cookoff

T

he highly anticipated second annual Laissez les Bons Temps Blue Jay Cookoff brought together talented cooking teams from the Jesuit community.

As the aroma of mouth-watering dishes filled the air, attendees eagerly gathered to sample the wide variety of culinary creations on display and cast their votes for the best dish.

Each team infused their creations with passion and skill, aiming to impress the discerning palates of the attendees. This year’s cookoff celebrated two victorious teams: Carbar Catering, led by Granville Morse ’89, won for the second consecutive year with their irresistible Glazed Delight. The other triumphant team, Bussin’ Banks Street Tacos, was led by Kyle Huber ’09, who delighted attendees with their tantalizing Banks Street Brisket Tacos. 

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1. Glazed Delight—Carbar Catering 2.

Boudin Chimichangas—Boudin Ballers 3.

Cajun Chicken and Waffles—Chic-Fil-Jay’s dish: 4. It’s BAO-t Time’s dish: Double Header: Duck and Pork Bao Buns 5. Nacho Libre’s dish: Jalapeño Poppers 6. Bussin’ Banks Street Tacos: Banks Street Brisket Tacos 7. Class of ’92 & Central City BBQ’s dish: Hogs for the Cause Award Winning smoked wings with white BBQ sauce 8.

Dodran Squadron’s dish: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

FAT H E R- S O N M A S S

God the Father, God the Son

S

everal months ago, Jesuit hosted its annual FatherSon Mass and Dinner, an evening filled with reflection, communion, and community bonding. The night began with a Mass led by Jesuit’s president, Fr. John Brown, S.J. His sermon focused on the profound relationship between God the Son and God the Father, illuminating the parallels with the relationship between Blue Jays and their fathers.

Fr. Brown delved into the Gospel’s vivid imagery, highlighting salt, light, and even a city. He emphasized one particular image, stating, “Just so, your light must shine before others that they may see the good deeds and glorify your Heavenly Father.”

He explored the question of why the metaphor of “father and son”

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was used to describe the connection between God the Son and God the Father. Fr. Brown noted that while there were countless ways to describe this relationship, the choice of “father and son” was symbolic.

“Fathers and sons for millennia have been the relationship in which the family business is passed from one to another,” he explained. “That is what God has asked all of us to do. God has asked us to do [for the world] what we can see in the [relationship] between a father and a son… we are all sons of God, we are all inheritors of what God has given us.”

The evening transitioned to heartfelt speeches by seniors Grayson Joint and Roland Waguespack. They shared moving insights into their relationships with their fathers, David Joint ’93 and Roland Waguespack’92, respectively. The attendees then

(top, left) Roland Waguespack’92 embraces his son Roland after his speech; (top, right) Nicholas and Anthony Rosevally bring up the gifts ; (bottom, left) Kole White with his father Kirk ; (bottom, middle) David Joint ’93 with sons Grayson & Harrison; (bottom, top right) The Jesuit choir led by Jeff Miraflor, S.J.; (bottom, bottom right) Jake and Steve Charbonnet ’86 with David and Benjamin Cedro

moved down to the student commons for a steak dinner.

The Father-Son Mass and Dinner served not only as a spiritual gathering but also as an opportunity for the Jesuit community to reflect on the values and traditions passed down through generations. It was a poignant reminder of the vital connections that bind fathers and sons, relationships that echo the divine connection between God the Father and God the Son. In celebrating these relationships, the event underscored the role of family and faith in shaping the character and community of Jesuit. 

M O T H E R S ’ LU N CH EO N & A LM A M AT E R AWA R DS

Jesuit Honors Two Blue Jays Mothers

T

he annual Mothers’ Luncheon at Metairie Country Club was a special occasion that showcased the service and commitment of Jesuit moms.

Luncheon chair Nancy Colomb, mother of Paul ’00, David ’03, and Stephen ’04, opened the event with heartfelt remarks. The audience was also graced by the musical talents of Roberto Matthews ’96, who performed the National Anthem and “God Bless America.”

Fr. John Brown, S.J., began with an invocation and blessing before the meal and extended his gratitude to Colomb and Gabriela Thompson, the luncheon co-chair, mother of senior Jason and incoming pre-freshmen

Sebastian. He acknowledged the

senior mothers for entrusting their sons to Jesuit and asked them to stand for a round of applause.

One of the honorees, Alexis Murphy, mother of Daniel ’21, has been a stalwart supporter of the Blue Jay Band, volunteering whenever help was needed. Through a letter, her son Daniel highlighted her unceasing dedication, saying that her commitment inspires him to give back to the community in the same way she has.

The second honoree, Caroline Wegmann, mother of Jack ’19 and William ’22, was celebrated for her tireless work as a member of the Bazaar leadership team. Wegmann

was praised for her leadership in implementing changes that shaped the great event Jesuit has today. Her sons Jack ’19 and William ’22 expressed their gratitude for her example, reflecting on how she inspired them to grow up to be selfless people.

This year’s Mothers’ Luncheon served as a beautiful tribute to the selflessness, commitment, and loving support that Jesuit moms provide.

The event was a lasting reminder of the values that shape the Jesuit community and the extraordinary individuals who contribute to its mission. Heartfelt congratulations go out to this year’s Alma Mater Award recipients, and sincere thanks to all who made the event a success. 

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GOLF CLASSIC

Blue Jay Golfers Tee Off

T

he 2023 Jesuit Golf Classic, held this past April at Bayou Oaks in City Park, brought together hundreds of golfers for an event filled with competitive spirit and camaraderie. Presented by First Horizon and Eustis Insurance and Marsh & McLennan Agency, the day featured a range of contests and prizes.

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In the morning round, the foursome of Mark Gates ’66, Paul Bayer, Edwin Lee, and Bob Volante claimed victory with a score of 15-under par. Longest drive accolades went to Nick Spitale ’03, while Derek Morel ’02 nailed the closest-to-the-pin contest. The afternoon saw George Cvitanovic ’06, Graham Schaefer ’07, Sean Regan ’06, and Marc Bonin ’06 emerge victorious, also with a 15-under par score. Matt Forest ’92 and Michael Malinowski ’95 won the afternoon’s longest drive and closestto-the-pin contests, respectively.

A special feature was the “Beat the Pro” contest, featuring Myles Lewis ’11, a national championship golfer. The Class Cup, awarded to the foursome of Woody Reilly, Adam Bailey, Jared Strecker, and Craig Geraci, all from the Class of 2001, added a layer of intra-alumni competition.

Jesuit thanks committee members Krista Roeling, D.J. Galiano ’07, Anne Barnes, Cherie Turk-Adler, Mike Rodrigue ’71, Mike Lavie ’80, Clint Romig ’94, J.P. Escudier ’95, and Bill Hare ’90. 

Hook, Line, and Sinker: Fishing Rodeo a Reel Success

FISHING RODEO RESULTS: DIVISION 1 (ADULTS) S PECK LE D TROUT:

1st Place - Fr. Stephen Kramer, S.J. (3.15) 2nd Place - Ryan Gootee (2.95) 3rd Place - Kenny Prados (2.85)

RED SNAPPER: 1st Place - David Cashio (13.90) 2nd Place - Carter Round (4.60)

SHEEPSHEAD: 1st Place - Mike Deichmann (4.25) 2nd Place - Drew Necaise (3.45)

BLACK DRUM: 1st Place - Drew Necaise (2.25) 2nd Place - Scott Dusang (2.24)

FLOUNDER:

O

n a sunny June afternoon, families and fishing enthusiasts converged at John Ryan Stadium for the Brother Dardis Fishing Rodeo.

The day was filled with excitement as participants weighed their catches, savored delicious seafood, and cooled off with refreshing snowballs. The Blue Jay Shop was present to display and sell spirit items, offering attendees a shaded retreat.

A special note of gratitude goes to Brian Bent ’89 and Greg Bent of Bent’s RV and Bent Marine for their generous presenting sponsorship and for showcasing their remarkable RVs and boats. Appreciation is also due to Mike McMahon ’85 for his leadership as the event chair.

Before the winners were announced, Jesuit President Fr. John Brown, S.J., led a prayer, setting a heartfelt tone for the presentation.

Committee member Jude Trahant ’80

1st Place - Art Brewster (2.45) 2nd Place - Kevin Trahant (2.20) introduced Msgr. Christopher Nalty ’80, who captivated the crowd with the Parable of the Megalodon.

The grand raffle prizes were won by sophomore Jacob Howat, incoming pre-freshman Campbell Levy, and senior Chris Puckett, with awards ranging from fishing trips with alumni captains to an IGLOO cooler filled with Jesuit items.

The event’s culinary highlight was the seafood meal prepared by Max Gruenig ’06 and his team. Every registrant also received a ditty bag with the new Jesuit Fishing Rodeo shirt, leaving no one empty-handed.

The event was a success thanks to the efforts of many dedicated Blue Jay community members, including parents and alumni who contributed in countless ways. Jesuit extends its appreciation to everyone involved and looks forward to hosting the rodeo again on Saturday, June 15, 2024. 

BASS: 1st Place - Matthew McMahon (4.00) 2nd Place - Chris McMahon (3.05) 3rd Place - Matthew McMahon (2.85)

DIVISION 2 (18 & UNDER) R E D S N A PPE R :

1st Place - Brad Frischertz (22.05) 2nd Place - Hayes Round (10.10) 3rd Place - Mason Long (4.95) BL ACK DRUM:

1st Place - Cameron Martin (5.55) 2nd Place - Cameron Martin (5.50) FR E S HWATE R C ATFI S H:

1st Place - Cameron Martin (15.95) 2nd Place - Sam Noveck (5.70)

DIVISIONS 3, 4, & 5 FI V E -TROUT S TR INGE R :

Mark Bonafacic (14.5) BIGGE S T FI S H:

Lillian Stouder (Gar - 32.85)

NEW ORLEANS |

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C A R E E R DAY

Career Day Brings Alumni Back to Jesuit

A

t Jesuit’s annual career day in late January, a diverse assemblage of Blue Jay alumni spoke to Jesuit seniors and juniors about 26 careers.

In two 30-minute sessions, alumni speakers covered such topics as a look at a typical day in the office, future outlook of the field, college preparation, gaining experience, salary, and service opportunities within the field.

While upperclassmen learned about specific careers, sophomores, freshmen, and pre-freshmen gathered in the auditorium for a special presentation by William Stoudt ’07.

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Stoudt is the executive director of Rebuilding Together New Orleans, one of the largest home rehabilitation non-profit organizations in the city.

RTNO’s goal is to improve the quality of life of low-income homeowners, particularly those who are elderly, disabled, veterans, or single head of households with minor children.

As a student at Jesuit, Stoudt, along with his identical twin, Patrick, volunteered with Youth Rebuilding New Orleans, an organization established by high school students to help gut and repair homes damaged

by Hurricane Katrina. During his presentation, Stoudt told the story

(top, left) William Stoudt ’07, featured speaker; (top, right) Chad Evans ’97; (middle, left) Glenn Hayes ’97; (middle, right) Thomas Combes ’07; (bottom) The 2023 Career Day alumni speakers

of how his experience working with YRNO as a student led to his role as the program’s first director and eventually the director of RTNO. He mentioned how his love of chess has helped in figuring out problems and finding solutions.

Stoudt encouraged today’s Jays to pursue goals that are important and meaningful to them and to follow their own paths in life.

Alumni interested in volunteering for Career Day or other alumni events can register online at www.jesuitnola. org/alumni/volunteer-service. 

F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

VIRTUALLY UNSTOPPABLE E-Sports Wins Inaugural LHSAA State Championship

I

n a landmark victory, Jesuit’s e-sports team seized the title in the inaugural Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) E-sports State Championship under the guidance of Matthew Firmin ’10.

While the competitive gaming arena has been building momentum for years around the world, the triumph marks the successful culmination of the first official season of LHSAA e-sports in Louisiana.

Firmin remarked, “This initial year of LHSAA e-sports is a gamechanger. It means students with diverse interests now have official access to college scholarships and recruiting in a more publicly recognized and sanctioned way.”

“This is a brand new venture for Jesuit in a new competitive space,” smiled Fr. John Brown, S.J., Jesuit’s president, “but one thing is for sure: it’s good to come out on top.”

While Jesuit remains intentionally grounded in classical instructional norms—students continue to use pencil and paper in classrooms instead of iPads or other devices—Brown pointed out that Blue Jay excellence in e-sports contributes to the technological balance that the school hopes to strike with its students.

“While we have chosen to protect

the sacrosanct relationship between students and teachers by leaving electronic devices out of students’ hands most of the day,” he explained, “e-sports, robotics, programming elective classes, and other cocurriculars are some of the ways in which we do choose to explicitly make technology part of students’ educational experience.”

E-sports, which involves interscholastic competition on video game platforms, allows students and schools to form teams that compete against other schools in various popular video games, both online and in person. With access to faculty mentors, coaches, and numerous college scholarship opportunities, e-sports provides an engaging, competitive opportunity for students.

Firmin explained, “E-sports is about more than just playing games.

It’s about team building, strategic thinking, and competitive spirit—just in a digital environment.”

The participation of Jesuit and Louisiana in e-sports signifies a leap forward in educational athletics. “The move into e-sports allows Jesuit to stay ahead of the curve in Louisiana competition,” Firmin said. “More importantly, it positions Jesuit as a leader as Louisiana joins the rest of the country in taking competitive

video gaming seriously.”

The championship win was a testament to the hard work of the players, with standout performances from sophomore Jacob Downing and senior captain Kennedy Nguyen.

“Jacob is a highly ranked player in Rocket League and has been instrumental in our victories this season,” said Firmin.

“Kennedy, our Valorant team captain, was one of the three students who initially approached me to start the e-sports team. Both have been pivotal to our success.”

Nguyen is hoping to take his e-sports prowess to the collegiate level next year, further showcasing the impact of this program on students’ futures.

Looking ahead, Firmin has high hopes for the growth of the team.

“Now that we’ve won the state championship and are preparing for the national tournament in Kansas City, MO, I believe more students will be interested in joining the team.

I envision Jesuit becoming the go-to choice for students in New Orleans who aspire to compete on the national level.”

With such an impressive inaugural season, the future of e-sports at Jesuit is bright. The team is, in every sense, virtually unstoppable. 

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F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

RUGBY TRIUMPHS OVER LOUISIANA CHALLENGERS EARNING 2023 STATE TITLE

A

s the sun dipped below the horizon on April 30, the Blue Jay rugby team penned the final chapter of a thrilling narrative, capping off its season with a thunderous victory over Brother Martin in the state championship.

The team’s 2022-23 journey was marked by resilience, grit, and unwavering commitment, elements that formed the beating heart of a team now known across the nation.

In the words of rugby reporter Alex Goff, the Blue Jays’ calendar was “the most competitive schedule in the nation.”

No battlefield was too daunting for Jesuit; the team displayed a lionhearted spirit, engaging in combat with rugby giants from across the country, including reigning national champion De La Salle from California, Gonzaga High School from Washington, D.C., and formidable teams from Texas, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Tennessee. Each skirmish, victorious or not, added a layer of steel to the Jays’ resolve.

The team’s season began on a high note, as Jesuit opened against Brother Martin with a 70-7 victory. Senior Matthew Cashio —now bound for Wales to continue his rugby career at 46 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

RUGBY Cardiff Metropolitan University—set the stage with brilliant coordination with senior Quinn Amedee to earn the first try of the season. Senior Andrew Newell, who is headed to the University of Arizona as a rugby recruit, displayed deft handling and leadership. Scintillating runs from seniors Otto Hirstius and Joseph Trask also foreshadowed the offensive prowess that would characterize the season.

The year was not without challenges. A series of losses against Strake Jesuit, Jesuit Dallas, and Pendleton High School in March tested the team’s mettle. However, the Blue Jays proved their resilience, bouncing back with a win against Brother Martin, a tie against Germantown, and a triumphant return to form in the championship

match.

The final showdown at the NOLA Gold Stadium witnessed Jesuit operating on an entirely different level, a lightning tempo that left the Crusaders scrambling for answers.

Within moments of the kickoff, Cashio exploited a gap in the Brother Martin defense, streaking down field for Jesuit’s first try. The Jays continued to apply relentless pressure, pushing the Crusaders back with a barrage of attacks and tactical kicks from Newell.

Newell, in conjunction with senior Elijah Prosper, Hirstius, and Amedee, then proceeded to dismantle the Crusaders’ defense, scoring one try after another. The Jays’ suffocation defense was a sight to behold, forcing Brother Martin to relinquish the ball time and again. As the match

progressed, the Jays’ forward line, led by sophomore Frank Finicle, began to flex its muscles. A series of successful charges culminated in senior Jon Rouse’s piercing of the Crimson defense for another try, leaving the final score at 71-15 in favor of Jesuit.

Following the match, NOLA Gold head coach Kane Thompson singled out Prosper, who scored three tries including an 80-meter scorcher, as Jesuit’s man-of-the-match.

Nine Jesuit senior players, including Cashio, Newell, Hirstius, Joe Charif, Timmy Peterman, Rouse, Amedee, Benjamin Musgrave, and Prosper, earned their spots on the all-state team. Their contributions, alongside those of every player who donned the Blue Jay jersey, helped craft a season that will propel Jesuit rugby to a new level of competition. 

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

LACROSSE SEIZES 2023 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

T

he Louisiana High School Lacrosse League’s 2023 championship game ended on an unforgettable note, with Jesuit clinching a nail-biting overtime victory against Catholic of Baton Rouge. The triumph marked the school’s seventh LHSLL state championship, adding another accolade to its laudable record, which includes 12 state final showdowns since the league’s inception in 2008.

Jesuit’s victory over Catholic, a down-to-the-wire 6-5 finish, was the

result of a riveting team performance and exceptional individual prowess.

Freshman Zachary Raymond and sophomore Wilson Frischhertz contributed pivotal performances.

Raymond netted three impressive goals, earning him the Game MVP award for offense, while Frischhertz secured the win in overtime assisted by junior John Calhoun. Junior Jack Sutherlin added two more goals to Jesuit’s tally, and senior goalie Ethan Lago made ten successful saves and was honored with the Game MVP

award for defense.

This championship match marked the third consecutive year that Jesuit and Catholic squared off in the state final game, creating a compelling rivalry. It was a sweet reprisal for the Jays, who won in 2021, lost in 2022, and made a triumphant comeback in 2023.

The road to the championship was anything but easy.

The season was peppered with high stakes matches throughout. Early in the season, the team faced off against

UNFORGETTABLE

48 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

LACROSSE

St. Thomas More in March, pulling off a narrow 8-7 victory, but just six days later, Jesuit narrowly missed a win against Newman High School in a close 9-10 defeat. Nevertheless, the team bounced back remarkably.

From March 24 onwards, the Blue Jays secured a winning streak, with resounding victories against St. Paul’s (12-3), Brother Martin (20-3), Capt.

Shreve (4-1), and Byrd (19-3). The team concluded the regular season on a high note, winning overwhelmingly against St. Thomas More again on April 29 by a score of 21-3.

Despite a travel-heavy regularseason schedule and many highpressure matches, the team demonstrated unwavering strength, agility, and tactical acumen that came together as the team headed into the playoffs.

In the semifinal match against St. Thomas More, the Blue Jays pulled off a hard-fought 11-10 win after initially trailing 0-2. In recognition of his remarkable performance during the championship weekend, Frischhertz was named the LHSLL’s Championship Weekend Outstanding Athlete.

Guiding Jesuit to this victory was coach Zach Pall, a New York native with an illustrious career in lacrosse who arrived at Jesuit in 2021. An All-American in high school, he played at the collegiate level and even represented the Israeli National Team in international competitions.

In an interview following the championship win, Pall expressed his admiration for the team, with special mention of the senior players: “This is a very special group for me. [These

seniors] were sophomores when I started at Jesuit, and for them to go out as seniors and finish their job was unreal to watch.”

The season is a testament to Blue Jay lacrosse’s commitment to excellence and tenacity, both on and off the field, but this year’s victory holds significance beyond the mere thrill of the win. It underscores the legacy that coach Pall is building for lacrosse at Jesuit and in New Orleans at large. He is currently spearheading the development of the Louisiana Lacrosse Academy to foster talent and a love for the sport among the next generation of lacrosse athletes.

All signs point to the same thing: a promising and exciting future for Blue Jay lacrosse. 

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F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

ON TOP OF THE DOGPILE BASEBALL WINS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

I

n a gripping conclusion to the 2023 season, Jesuit baseball (31–7) etched its name once again into the annals of Louisiana high school history. Toppling Rummel in a 1-0 showdown in Sulphur, LA, the team claimed the 2022-23 LHSAA Division I state title. The championship is the program’s 22nd state title in its storied history.

The path to the state championship started with a strong 13-member senior line-up, led by Tulane commit William Good. In the Division I select semifinal, Jesuit faced off against Pineville at McMurry Park. Good, a starting infielder in Jesuit’s prior state championship victory two years ago, provided an experienced perspective on the tournament’s pressures and opportunities.

Seniors Hunter Oufnac, Gates Barré, Scout Hughes, and Alex Jeansonne delivered stellar performances at the plate throughout the season. Jeansonne’s gamechanging three-RBI double helped in a 5-3 comeback win against Byrd in the post-season, setting the tone for the games to come.

Experience on the field played a significant role, not only in the games themselves but in the Jays’ strategy and approach as well. According to Jesuit’s coach Kenny Goodlett, “having a few players that played (in the state tournament) can tell people 50 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

BASEBALL what to expect when you walk into the stadium. It’s not the normal situation.”

In the championship game, the Jays’ strategic play shone brightly.

Despite matching pitching statistics from Rummel, Jesuit’s combination of excellent pitching and defense prevailed. Good was named the Most Outstanding Player of the game, and Barré earned a save with a perfect seventh inning. The state title marks Jesuit’s third victory against Rummel this season, all with one-run margins.

The Jays owe their triumph to outstanding play from the entire team with especially notable performances from Patrick Berrigan, Good, Everett Denny, and Barré. Good stood out with six shutout innings,

while Berrigan’s RBI-single in the fourth inning brought in the decisive run. Denny contributed to two key defensive plays, and Barré concluded the game with precision.

The Jays’ state championship crowned an eight-game winning streak, including six consecutive postseason wins. The team demonstrated resilience, making comebacks in three of their last eight games, including a clutch semifinal win against No. 6 Pineville.

The victory was a testament to Jesuit’s dedication and will inspire future Blue Jays as they take to the field in the coming seasons. In a nod to their skill and promise, three players from the team have secured spots on college rosters. Alongside

Good’s commitment to Tulane, Pitts is set to suit up for Delgado, and Hughes will join the team at Spring Hill.

In recognition of his leadership and mentorship, the Louisiana Sports Writers Association recognized Goodlett as the Louisiana Coach of the Year with Good also named to the LSWA Class 5A All-State Baseball team.

“This season epitomized the tenacity, teamwork, and grit that define Jesuit baseball,” said Goodlett, reflecting on the spring.

“I’m immensely proud of our team’s performance this season, and I look forward to nurturing this spirit in our future players.” 

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F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

BACK ON J THE MAT WRESTLING RECLAIMS STATE TITLE

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esuit wrestling claimed the 2023 LHSAA Division I state title, marking the team’s first state victory since 2009. The team’s triumph was propelled by junior Spencer Lanosga’s 41-second pin and numerous other notable performances, highlighting a compelling display of ambition and talent.

“Wrestle with love for your teammates, not hate for your competitors— that’s what we did. We wrestled with love for each other, and we did what we had to do for each other to get the title,” Lanosga said, reflecting on the victory.

Coach Jon Orillion ’01 underscored the team’s consistent hard work rather than focusing solely on championships. He expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments, emphasizing the ethos of continuous improvement.

“Championships are nice to have, but what we talk to the guys about is just getting better every single day,” he said. This philosophy characterizes Jesuit’s approach to fostering growth in its students, and this dual emphasis on process and habit was clearly reflected in the wrestling team’s success.

In the clinching match at Brookshire Grocery Arena, Lanosga secured the team championship with 263.5 points for Jesuit, edging out Catholic with 259.5 points and leaving Brother Martin in third place with 244 points. Lanosga pinned each of his four opponents in less than a minute, a testament to his exceptional skill. Sophomore Bodi Harris also stood on the awards podium. Harris claimed his title against a senior from Catholic High School, tipping the scales in favor of Jesuit at the tournament.

The win brings the school’s total state wrestling championship tally

WRESTLING

to 24, reaffirming the wrestling program’s long-term strength.

In a demonstration of Blue Jays’ exceptional wrestling talent, the Crescent City Sports All-State First Team Selections featured numerous students from Jesuit. Harris’s and Lanosga’s state titles secured their places on the coveted list, and Lanosga took home the award for Most Valuable Wrestler. Orillion was recognized as Coach of the Year, a testament to his exceptional leadership and ability to nurture talent within the team. Jesuit also shone in the All-Freshman Team category with

Michael Barnett’s inclusion.

In the list of top students by class, Jesuit representation was prominent.

Lanosga led the Top Juniors category, with Jackson Calderaro also making the cut. Among the Top Sophomores, Harris took the second spot. Lastly, the Top Freshman category featured Jesuit’s Barnett. These honors further highlight the depth of talent within Jesuit, showcasing the potential for continued success in coming years.

While he has a senior year to look forward to on Carrollton & Banks, Lanosga is already set to wrestle collegiately at the United States

Naval Academy. Demonstrating his commitment to elevate the state and school’s reputation in wrestling, he commented on the future with optimism: “I look forward to proving that Louisiana is a wrestling state.”

Already working on proving Lanosga’s point about the future of wrestling in the state and city, Orillion and his staff spent the summer developing dozens of middle school wrestlers who eagerly chose to participate in Jesuit’s summer wrestling camps. The message to the world is clear: Jesuit wrestling is back. 

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Baseball Mini-Reunion: The Indelible 1985 Team

I

n a heartening gathering at Jesuit’s John Ryan Stadium, Jesuit recently celebrated the exceptional 1985 State Championship baseball team. Over three decades ago, this remarkable squad made history with their performance, setting a standard that has been revered but never replicated. The team, led by its seniors, achieved a perfect record of 14-0 in district play, setting the stage for their conquest in the state championship.

The legacy of this team’s

54 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

exceptional run, seen in their perseverance, smart play, and camaraderie, continues to inspire the Jesuit community. They outscored opponents 271 to 87, achieved a national ranking of 4th in USA’s National High School Baseball Poll, and brought the first state championship to then-coach Dave Moreau.

During the reunion, 15 of the 19 team members, including All-District, All-Metro, and All-State honorees, were present to commemorate their

achievements. In a poignant tribute, the first pitch was thrown by Sean O’Donnell ’85, brother of the late team manager Seamus O’Donnell ’89. A special thanks goes to Chuck Adams ’85, who also serves as the class’s captain, for assisting with organizing the day.

The reunion called to mind the enduring bonds that define the lifelong Blue Jay experience. Jesuit encourages alumni from teams and co-curriculars to find opportunities reconnect and celebrate their shared history. If you would like to take the lead on organizing an event for fellow alumni, reach out to Michael Prados ’83, Jesuit’s alumni director, for best practices and guidelines. 

F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

W I N T E R // S P R I N G

BASEBALL

William Good

Tulane University

ATHLETIC

BASEBALL

Bryce Pitts

Delgado Community College

BASEBALL

Scout Hughes

Spring Hill College

SIGNING DAYS

BASKETBALL

Jack Lo

Spring Hill College

CROSS COUNTRY

Robert Buisson

Louisiana State University

Seventeen studentathletes from Jesuit made commitments this winter and spring to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level.

CROSS COUNTRY

Jack DesRoches

Vanderbilt University

CROSS COUNTRY

Patrick Dowd

Dartmouth University

FOOTBALL

Aidan Corbello

Louisiana State University

FOOTBALL

Jace Larsen

University of South Alabama

FOOTBALL

Hollis McDaniel

University of South Alabama

FOOTBALL

Dominic Logiudice

Nicholls State University

RUGBY

Andrew Newell

University of Arizona

RUGBY

Matthew Cashio

Cardiff Metropolitan University, Wales

SOCCER

Antoine Saleun

Spring Hill College

SOCCER

Alex Patron

Spring Hill College

SWIMMING

Joseph Capo

University of Evansville

TRACK & FIELD

Zak Blanchard

University of Louisiana Lafayette

(above, left to right) Jack Lo, Jack DesRoches, Joseph Capo, Patrick Dowd, Dominic Logiudice, Scout Hughes, Andrew Newell, Zak Blanchard, William Good, Robert Buisson, Bryce Pitts, Matthew Cashio, Antoine Saleun, Aidan Corbello, Jace Larsen, Alex Patron, Hollis McDaniel

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F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

Soccer The soccer team boasted a commendable 2022-23 season, marked by skilled play and fierce determination. Led by senior captains Jacob Cabos, Aidan Couvillion, and Carter Dusang, the team demonstrated excellent leadership and depth of talent on both halves of the pitch.

The Blue Jays navigated a challenging schedule with poise, securing decisive wins over formidable teams including Denham Springs, Bonnabel, Catholic, Ben Franklin, Brother Martin, and Fontainebleau.

A notable victory came against Brother Martin in the regional round, advancing Jesuit to the LHSAA State Soccer Quarterfinal. Junior Nick Danna scored the opening goal in the 37th minute with a stunning assist from senior Anders Olson. The play showcased a swift junior Aiden Obletz crossing midfield and passing to Olson, who, with precision, connected with Danna’s foot, catapulting the ball past the Crusader keeper. A mere six minutes into the second half, senior Cabos scored, solidifying Jesuit’s lead. His goal, set up by fellow senior Connor Boudreaux, evaded two Crusader defenders to find the back of the net.

With a final record of 14-5-3, the Blue Jays’ season showcased an effective blend of strategy, skill, and sportsmanship, promising a strong

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foundation for future seasons. Even in the face of defeat, the Jesuit soccer team displayed a dedication and drive that will pay dividends for the team for years to come.

One graduating senior on the squad, Alex Patron, will continue to play soccer at the college level at Spring Hill College. 

Bowling Under the seasoned leadership of coach Todd Bourgeois ’88, the bowling team clinched its first-ever Catholic League championship. This victory marks a defining moment for the program and signals a new era of success for Jesuit bowling.

Striking this victory represented an athletic milestone for team, fans, and the school.

“Winning the Catholic League Championship for the first time was monumental for our program,” said Bourgeois. The 11-1 season was characterized by focus and commitment, attributes that helped pave the way to success. Led by four starting seniors, the team displayed discipline from the get-go, pinning down their performance during practice sessions and competitions.

The squad’s victory over Brother Martin captured attention for the program, underscoring Jesuit’s growth and potential. Standout showings from seniors Will Adams, Ethan Benoit, Will Carpenter, and Preston Roark contributed to this success.

Looking to the future, Jesuit bowling has much to anticipate.

Bourgeois is optimistic, stating, “I honestly feel that our upcoming season will be even better than last year.

Despite losing four graduating seniors, we have juniors and sophomores this year who are excellent bowlers and who will fill in nicely.”

The next season is set to begin on January 2, 2024, and the community is encouraged to come out to support the team.

Reflecting on Jesuit’s impressive roll to the Catholic League championship, Bourgeois expressed pride in his team and gratitude for the support from parents and families. “The historic win is more than a trophy,” he said. “It’s a symbol of collective effort, growth, and the special bond within the Jesuit bowling family.”

While the echoes of victory still resonate, the excitement for what lies ahead is palpable. With the lanes cleared and pins reset, the team is ready to forge ahead, building on their achievements and embracing new challenges.

As Jesuit bowling enters a new chapter, one thing is certain: Blue Jay Spirit, a love of the game, and memories created on and off the lanes will define this remarkable season for posterity. The team’s portrait in the Hall of Champions is but a small part of the team’s true legacy at on Banks Street: the bar has been raised for every team that will follow in their footsteps. 

F LY I N G W I T H T H E J AY S

Tennis The Jesuit tennis team had an exhilarating season, thanks to their talented roster and driven coaching staff. Under the guidance of head coach Scott Schlesinger, the team achieved an undefeated district record in his first season. In the district finals, they faced off against Brother Martin and emerged victorious. Their success continued in the regional round, where they accomplished the impressive feat of qualifying the entire team for the state tournament.

During the regionals, junior Josh Verges stood out as the MVP, claiming the singles title. Sophomore singles player Jake Bravo also performed exceptionally, securing his spot at the state tournament by winning his first two matches. In the doubles category, senior teammates Nick Kapusta and Jack Mann showcased their skills by defeating the third seed and advancing to the semifinals. Additionally, sophomore doubles partners Leo Congeni and Scott Harper reached the regional semifinals, contributing to the team’s overall triumph. Junior Noah St. Germain and freshman Alton Swan also played key roles, making it to the quarterfinals and securing their spots in the state competition.

At the state tournament, the Jesuit team did not disappoint, earning a runner-up title with 9 points, just behind St. Paul’s 15 points. Verges

continued to shine in singles, winning his first three matches and making it to the semifinals, contributing 3 points to the team’s total. Bravo also earned a point in singles, advancing to the second round. In doubles, Harper and Congeni, as well as St. Germain and Swan, reached the quarterfinals, each contributing two points to the team.

Kapusta and Mann also earned a point by making it to the second round in doubles.

Coach Schlesinger expressed his pride in the team’s hard work and dedication, acknowledging their progress as a cohesive unit. He emphasized the team’s depth of talent and their determination to claim the state title in the upcoming season.

After finishing 4th in 2021 and 3rd in 2022, the team’s 2nd place finish in 2023 sets the stage for an exciting future. Coach Schlesinger eagerly looks forward to the next season and the potential for even greater achievements. 

Track During the District 9-5A championship, Jesuit’s track and field team emerged as champions, claiming the title for the first time since 2011.

The Blue Jays performed exceptionally well in both the field and distance events, accumulating a total of 140 points, surpassing John Curtis’s 120 points. Jesuit’s distance runners, seniors Patrick Dowd and Jack

DesRoches, achieved first place in

the 3,200-meter race and 1,600-meter race, respectively, making significant contributions to the team’s victory.

Additionally, the Blue Jay 4x800 relay team, consisting of sophomore Michael Trepagnier, junior Tanner Salsman, freshman Alex Siguenza, and DesRoches, set a district record with a time of 8:13.19. Other first-place finishers were seniors Zack Blanchard in the 800-meter and Nick Jacobs in the javelin throw. Thirteen other Blue Jays also qualified for Regionals.

During the Class 5A, Region 3 meet, Jesuit claimed the runner-up title with 89 points, trailing behind John Curtis with 104 points. Top achievers who secured first place in their events were Blanchard in the 800-meter, junior Michael Vocke in the 1,600-meter, and Dowd in the 3,200-meter. Thirteen other Blue Jays also qualified for the state meet.

Jesuit placed fourth with 40 points at the Class 5A LHSAA state meet, behind John Curtis (51), Karr (57), and Catholic (68). Vocke emerged as the victor in the 1,600-meter run, setting a personal record (PR) of 4:15.60. His teammate, DesRoches, finished closely behind in second place with a PR of 4:16.41. In the 3,200-meter run, Dowd secured first place with a PR of 9:14.49, followed by senior Robert Buisson with a PR of 9:21.59. Additionally, Blanchard achieved fourth place in the 800-meter race, clocking in at a PR of 1:55.16. 

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57

Where

Y’at?!

ALUMNI: TELL US WHERE Y’AT! Submit online at jesuitnola.org/where-yat.

1950s # b Gene Delaune ’57 and his wife, Kathleen, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at St. John the Baptist Church in New Brighton, MN, in February. # b Jack Dardis ’59 and Mark Rodi ’59 sported their Jesuit apparel while on the “footsteps of St. Paul” at the acropolis in Greece while traveling with their wives, Anne and Sharon.

1960s Oliver Miller White ’61 is now retired

and living in the Philippines.

Jim LeSaicherre ’68 is living in

Clearlake City, TX, and is active in the Seabrook Rotary Club. He celebrated his 50th wedding anniversary in July 2022.

1970s

Robert Durand ’73 has retired after

27 years as a clinical department administrator at Tulane University.

He is now doing music again as a singer/songwriter, guitarist, and percussionist, performing along the Alabama and Florida Gulf Coast.

Terry Billings ’74 was appointed to

the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry

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key : # accompanying photo b jays around the world

by Governor John Bel Edwards for a 5-year term starting in January.

Carolina, Stewart’s serves clients nationwide.

# b Mark Ripple ’74, Bob Funck ’75, Mark Schott ’78, and Pat Veters ’79

Granville Morse ’89 has been named the Christian Brothers School 2023 Alumnus of the Year. He has served many years on the CBS Alumni Association board and also as its president. He is also a member of the Christian Brothers Foundation, which supports the work of the school and the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Morse is medical director of the Hospital Service Lines for Ochsner Health.

traveled with their wives on a summer pilgrimage to Manresa, Spain. They attended Mass in the cave where St. Ignatius lived for 18 months while writing the Spiritual Exercises.

Ron Yager ’79 was recently honored

with two Suncoast Emmy Awards for the documentary film, Irma Thomas – The Soul Queen of New Orleans. He received the awards in the categories of Best Director and Best Entertainment program. Since 2007, Ron has served as president and general manager of New Orleans public television station WLAE-TV.

1980s Nicholas Sensley ’80 is the founder

and CEO of the Institute for American Policing Reform. In partnership with two of the world’s largest law firms, one of our nation’s largest nonprofit research institutes, and several universities, Nick is leading a research, education, training, and development institute to discover the most promising pathways to policing reform in America. Nick is a former chief of police.

David Danna ’85 was hired as the general manager at the Ocean Springs Yacht Club in July. Previously, he served as the food and beverage director at the University Club in Baton Rouge and at the Gulfport Yacht Club. He currently lives in Diamondhead, MS, and loves living on the Gulf Coast. In March, he married his grade school friend, Dayna Ciaccio.

Morgan Stewart ’85 announced

the expansion of his Stewart Communications marketing agency, offering the full suite of marketing services including website development, marketing, social media management, and crisis management.

Headquartered in Franklin, North

1990s

Michael Toups ’93 has accepted

the head boys basketball position at East View High School, a 5A school with over 2000 students located in Georgetown, TX, the fastest growing city in the U.S. He was the top assistant at Leander High School for the previous five school years. He continues to reside in Austin.

William Davis ’94 married Maggie Thomson in November in the Bahamas. They spent the holidays with their families and then went to Europe and Iceland in February for their honeymoon. They live in Atlanta, Georgia.

Steve Benelli ’97 earned a Bachelor of

General Studies / Arts & Humanities degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in May. He currently lives in Lafayette with his wife of 17 years, Candice, and son. He is employed as the parts manager at Sammy Broussard Equipment Center in Breaux Bridge.

LtCol Joel Lomasney ’98 took command of the approximately 250 marines and sailors and 12 aircraft of VMM-774, a Marine Corps Reserve MV-22B squadron, in August of 2022.

Kenneth Sutherland ’98 is moving

to Osaka, Japan, and working as an assistant language teacher of English on the JET Program for at least the next year.

W H E R E Y ’AT

2000s Bradley Drouant ’00 was recognized

nationally as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Project Manager of the Year for leading the design and construction of two vital flood risk management projects for the New Orleans District, the $3.7 billion West Shore Lake Pontchartrain Project and major components of the $14.6 billion Greater New Orleans Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System.

Jason Brown ’02 has settled into

his faculty position at Emory University. He’s a board-certified gastroenterologist with clinical responsibilities at Grady Memorial Hospital (similar to old Charity Hospital), where he was the highest volume endoscopist and the first to use artificial intelligence for colon cancer screening in the state of Georgia. He teaches medical students, internal medicine residents, and gastroenterology fellows both in the classroom and in-patient care settings, and he holds leadership positions in each of those training programs.

His research interests are healthcare systems improvement and quality improvement. Brown was promoted to associate professor in September. He was named to the 2023 University of Georgia 40 Under 40. He misses New Orleans and Jesuit, but he was happy to bring his wife, Irma, and his daughter for a visit in summer 2023.

Edward McAuliffe ’04 received the

Louisiana State Bar Association’s Pro Bono Publico Award on May 17 for pro bono legal work he undertook representing a victim of crime. The award was presented to McAuliffe by fellow Jesuit alumnus Stephen Dwyer, ’66, 2022-2023 President of the LSBA, and Supreme Court Justice Piper Griffin.

Jordan Ezell ’09 recently graduated from residency in anesthesiology at Ochsner Health System in New

Orleans and will continue to practice medicine for Ochsner throughout the New Orleans area.

’57

2010s Grant Becker ’13 graduated with

an MBA from the Kellogg School of Business in. He was promoted to senior director at EY-Parthenon in July.

He spent the month of July traveling in Europe. He resides in Chicago, Illinois.

Joshua Lacoste ’16 graduated Notre

Dame Law School in 2023 and started a one-year term as a law clerk to the Honorable Federico A. Moreno on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in Miami.

KATHLEEN & GENE DELAUNE

’59

Cameron Rosen ’17 received his

bachelor of science in psychology in May of 2022 and is currently pursuing a master of science in psychology at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The MS program is being funded through a Statistics and Research Methods Graduate Teaching Assistantship. He is working as a registered ABA line technician for Family Solutions Behavioral Developmental Services implementing treatment plans for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Maximillian Elvir ’18 was hired in May as a salesman for his family business, Louisiana Office Products.

Evan Leonhard ’19 graduated summa

cum laude from LSU, where he served as an editor-in-chief of the Delta Journal and a weekly columnist for the Daily Reveille. Upon graduation he was named a University Medalist and awarded the Leo and Insa Abraham Award for outstanding senior by LSU’s Ogden Honors College. This spring he was named a recipient of a Fulbright ETA Fellowship for Greece; however, he has decided to pursue an offer from the University of Oxford for a masters’ in English in the fall. 

JACK & ANNE DARDIS AND SHARON & MARK RODI

’70 s

RIPPLE, FUNCK, SCHOTT, & VETERS JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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W H E R E Y ’AT

1980

2003

1963

2008

1988

2018

1983

1963

REUNION TIME The 2023 alumni reunion season produced another opportunity for classes to come together and celebrate the times they shared on Carrollton & Banks. While each reunion had its unique style, they all had the classic Jesuit camaraderie that will sustain each class until the next gathering. Photo galleries of each reunion event are available on the alumni section of the Jesuit website. 

1978

2013

1983

1993

1953

1958

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REUNION RECAPS

1983

1993

2018

2008

1988

1958

1993

1978

1968

2013

EMERITUS

1980

2003

1968

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BIB LIST D E C EM B ER 1, 202 2 – M AY 31, 202 3

JESUIT CONGR ATULATES: Connie & Louis Klotzbach, Jr. ’94 on

Emily & Jason Litchfield ’04 on

Amanda & Andrew Collura ’10 on

the birth of their son Colton James Klotzbach, Jan. 5, 2023. 1

the birth of their son Rory Manfred Litchfield, Nov. 21, 2022. Rory is the grandson of E. John Litchfield ’69.

the birth of their son Clay Santo Collura, Nov. 28, 2022.

Maryellen & Andrew Richert ’04 on

birth of their son Michael Philip Mentz III, Sep. 13, 2022. Michael is the grandson of Michael Philip Mentz, Sr. ’74.

Julie & Jean-Paul Escudier ’95 on the

birth of their daughter Cecilia Louise Escudier, Nov. 22, 2022.

Stacie & Corey Fitzpatrick ’98 on the birth of their son Cooper John Fitzpatrick, June 16, 2022.

Constance Whittaker & Taylor Norton ’98 on the birth of their

daughter Constance Dane Norton, Aug. 24, 2022. 2 Shauna & Jason Marcell ’00 on the

birth of their daughter Charlotte Evelyn Marcell, April 24, 2023.

Charlotte is the granddaughter of Richard Marcell ’73. 3 Rebecca & Hanlon deVerges ’02 on

the birth of their sons Paul Hanlon deVerges III, May 30, 2020, and Parker James deVerges, July 28, 2022. 4

the birth of their son Hudson Frank Richert, Dec. 27, 2022.

Kelsey & James FitzSimons ’05 on

the birth of their daughter Chloe Marie FitzSimons, April 27, 2023.

Chelsea & Ryan Hathaway ’06 on the birth of their daughter Lake Marie Hathaway, Aug. 10, 2022.

Stephanie & Chris Cimo ’07 on the birth of their son Jameson Nicholas Cimo, Nov. 7, 2022. 8 Brittany & David Donnes ’07 on the birth of their son Silas Bertrand Donnes, Feb. 15, 2023. Silas is the grandson of John Bertrand Donnes III ’74. 9 Alyson & Kyle Wooderson ’07 on the

Kristina & Nathan Stibrich ’02 on

birth of their daughter Amelia Ann Wooderson, April 10, 2023. 10

the birth of their son Ethan Michael Stibrich, Dec. 12, 2022. 5

Emily & René Pastorek ’08 on the

Courtney & Mark Daigre ’03 on the

birth of their son Taysom Richard Daigre, May 3, 2022. 6 Jena & Paul Villere ’03 on the birth of their daughter Camille Marie Villere, Oct. 14, 2022.

Marcelle & William Connick, Jr. ’04

on the birth of their son James Robért Connick, Dec. 30, 2022. 7 Bergandi & Jarred LeBlanc ’04 on

the birth of their twins, son Liam R. LeBlanc and daughter Lily L. LeBlanc, Dec. 24, 2022.

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birth of their daughter Yvonne Rose Pastorek, Dec. 3, 2022. 11 Leslie Leavoy & Brady Smith ’08

on the birth of their daughter Isabel Marie Smith, Dec. 19, 2022. Isabel is the granddaughter of Sidney Smith ’76. 12 Lauren & Brett Chandler ’09 on the birth of their son Eli Matthew Chandler, Dec. 7, 2022. Eli is the grandson of Robert Chandler ’80 and David Quatrocci ’81. 13 Claire & Jonathan Coote ’09 on the

birth of their daughter Rosario Marie Coote, Aug. 16, 2022.

Caila & Michael Mentz ’10 on the

Abbey & Blake Cookmeyer ’12 on the birth of their son Babin Bernard Cookmeyer, Dec. 6, 2022. 14 Claire & Michael Cusimano ’13 on

the birth of their daughter Violet Mary Cusimano, April 25, 2023.

Violet is the granddaughter of Chuck Cusimano II ’71 and Tommy Moore, Jr. ’83. 15 Julie & Matthew Felger ’13 on the

birth of their daughter Millie Marie Felger, Jan. 5, 2023. Millie is the granddaughter of Kevin Heigle ‘69. 16 Julie & William North ’13 on the birth of their son Wesley John North, March 24, 2022. Wesley is the grandson of Brian North ‘83. 17 Coral & Albert Vallon IV ’13 on the birth of their daughter Baylor Josephine Vallon, Dec. 28, 2022.

Baylor is the granddaughter of A.J. Vallon III ’72 .

Beth & Roy Messina ’14 on the birth of their son Nathaniel James Messina, Oct. 7, 2022. 18

Parents receive a pink or blue Jayson bib for their new arrival.

BIB LIST

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

12

10

13

11

14

15

Info and images for the Bib List may be sent to: www.jesuitnola.org/bib-list.

16

17

18

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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In Memoriam

Jesuit remembers deceased alumni and faculty in Jaynotes, which is published biannually.

The listing below includes notified passings from Dec. 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023.

We continue to memorialize deceased members of the school community—with links to their obituaries and other details—on a daily basis in the In Memoriam section of our website. To notify us of a death, please complete the online form at jesuitnola.org/in-memoriam or call Jesuit’s event and volunteer office at (504) 483-3947.

1930s – 1940s

1940s – 1950s

Laurence W. Mazzeno, Jr. ’38

Robert G. Kuebel ’47

Louis C. Perrilliat ’51

Robert D. Coyle ’53

John S. Dabdoub ’41

Joseph A. Shirer, Sr. ’48

Fred P. Westenberger ’51

Jacques H. Roman III ’53

Leonard E. Gately, Jr. ’43

Ronald C. Francis ’50

Arthur B. Dayries ’52

Donald W. Braniff ’54

Angelo J. Giorlando ’43

Vincent J. Campanella, Sr. ’51

John F. Young ’52

Robert J. Guidry ’54

James J. Legeai ’44

John E. Paisant, Sr. ’51

Louis D. Britsch, Jr. ’53

James C. Otto ’55

64 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

IN MEMORIAM

1960s

René A. Curry, Jr. ’56

John C. Heurtin, Jr. ’57

Kenneth P. Callaway ’61

Robert J. Muller ’64

Hal J. Drez ’56

Frank M. Bordelon ’59

Frederick B. Pecora ’62

Thomas L. Gaudry, Jr. ’65

Louis A. Grossimon ’56

Donald W. Doyle, Jr. ’59

Ronald J. Rizzo ’62

Alan T. Lafourcade ’65

Dudley P. Montero III ’56

James F. Holmes, Sr. ’59

James A. Guderian ’63

Gustave A. Manthey, Jr. ’65

Marcel F. Dastugue III ’57

Frank J. Speyerer ’59

Jack T. Hasling, Jr. ’63

Thomas R. Bush ’67

Eugene J. Fields ’57

J. Fred Woessner, Jr. ’59

Patrick A. Conner ’64

Gerard E. Babst ’68

JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL | NEW ORLEANS |

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IN MEMORIAM

1960s – 1980s

1990s – 2010s

Christopher C. Dey ’69

Ryan J. Parrish ’93

Fr. Stephen F. Campbell, S.J. ’72

Rodney J. Migliore, Jr. ’97

Jason Hamrick with his late wife Theresa and son Nathan.

JESUIT REMEMBERS COACH & FATHER

Jason O. Hamrick (1974-2023)

Karl F. Hagemeier III ’72

Larry J. Schnadelbach ’72

William C. Charbonnet ’09

Nicholas A. Charles ’14

FULL LISTINGS

Wayne P. Palmer ’74

Mark A. Huggett ’81 66 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

Coach Jason O. Hamrick, of Kenner, Louisiana, died June 28, 2023, at 48, a Jesuit coach for 2 years.

Jesuit mourns the loss of Jason Hamrick, who passed away at the age of 48. Hamrick was not just a coach at Jesuit but also a passionate advocate for Blue Jay Spirit. Though his coaching history spanned multiple schools and sports, his colleagues and student-athletes alike knew that his connection

with Jesuit was special. His coaching reflected a zeal for the school’s mission and values, a sentiment he passed down to his children, especially his son Nathan, a student at Jesuit. Nathan’s mother and Hamrick’s wife, Theresa Hamrick, also passed away in recent weeks.

Hamrick, born in Atlanta in 1974, showcased his baseball prowess from an early age. After high school, he was invited to try out for the Cincinnati Reds and Pittsburgh Pirates farm teams, impressing scouts with his 90 mph fastball.

His love for the game remained undiminished as he transitioned into coaching, particularly for his sons in football, wrestling, and baseball.

Hamrick was known for his magnetic personality and his talent for “making everyone feel like family with his infectious spirit.”

He left an indelible mark on his students and on the school, and his legacy will continue to inspire Blue Jays for years to come. 

175 MOMENT S

1925 Fr. Percy Roy, S.J., begins his tenure as principal and immediately establishes a culture of excitement, pride, dedication, and spirit. Much of what student Eddie Hebert ’20 had begun is fully realized under Fr. Roy’s leadership.

MOMENTS

BY M AT I A S GR AU ’68, FORMER ALUMNI DIRECTOR & JESUIT EDUCATOR

The “175 Moments” that take place after 1925 will conclude in the next edition of Jaynotes.

1927 Realizing that athletics complements

1927 On September 26, the

academics in developing young men, head football coach R. “Doc” Erskine brings in renowned Notre Dame coach Knute Rockne to speak to the student body on December 20. Erskine had taken a summer course under Rockne before arriving at Jesuit.

first issue of a new school newspaper is published.

The Blue Jay, as it is titled, begins, “The Jesuit High Monthly is the latest evidence of the progress which has marked the school during the past years.”

1927 The seeds of

the Thanksgiving Drive are planted when the Poor Boys Committee of the Sodality places boxes in classrooms and asks for food donations for the city’s poor.

TO BE CONTINUED. . .

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CLASS OF 2023

68 | J A Y N O T E S | S P R I N G / S U M M E R 2 0 2 3

The Class of 2023 pedals up and down Banks Street, an event now fondly referred to as the “Tour de Khaki.” This relatively new tradition has become an integral part of Senior Week, providing a moment of lightheartedness before the class concludes their journey at Jesuit.

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JESUIT HIGH SCHOOL OF NEW ORLEANS 4133 Banks Street New Orleans, LA 70119 jesuitnola.org

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Parents of Alumni: If you are receiving your son’s copy of Jaynotes and he no longer lives with you, please let us know so we can update our database and send the magazine directly to him. Let us know if you enjoy reading Jaynotes. We will be glad to send a copy to his new address and a copy to you. Email changes to alumni@jesuitnola.org.

FOLLOW JESUIT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

RABENSTEINER BLUE JAY CORRECTION

Alumni are encouraged to stay connected by joining the Jesuit New Orleans Alumni Facebook and LinkedIn pages. @JesuitHSNOLA

On the last edition of Jaynotes, the back cover watercolor of the blue jays was incorrectly attributed to Oscar W. Rabensteiner, Jr. ’36 when in fact it was his father, Oscar W. Rabensteiner, Sr. who was the artist. Featured here is another painting

by Rabensteiner, Sr. found in the Jesuit Archives.

@JesuitNOLA @JesuitNOLA @JesuitHighSchoolNOLA @Jesuit-NOLA