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GLOBAL TRAILBLAZERS

U of D Jesuit young alumni are living the Grad at Grad values and making a difference in communities across the globe.

UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT JESUIT

SPRING 2025

Letter from the

Dear U of D Jesuit Family,

The worldwide Jesuit network is truly remarkable. U of D Jesuit is part of a global network of nearly 3,500 schools educating about two million students in 80 countries across 5 continents. In the USA, the Jesuit network includes 27 colleges and 62 high schools. Throughout history and into today, Jesuit-educated men and women have made an incredible impact. The Jesuit world is also very interconnected and makes us seem more like an extended family. U of D Jesuit is no exception. At a quick glance, we have 32 Jesuit-educated faculty and staff. Many of our current students come from a long line of Jesuit educational tradition, and many of our graduates go on to work in Jesuit education and ministry.

U of D Jesuit graduates have certainly made an impact on international Jesuit ministries. In the recent past, Fr. Joseph Daoust, S.J. ’57, served as superior of the Jesuit community in Rome, Fr. J. Thomas McClain, S.J. ’67 was the treasurer for the worldwide order, and Br. Guy Consolmagno, S.J. ’70 is currently the director of the Vatican Observatory. In Nicaragua, Fr. Joe Mulligan, S.J. ’61, works out of the Colegio Centro America, and Deacon Matthew Ippel, S.J. ’09 and I have crossed paths a few times this year as he prepares for further work with the Jesuit Refugee Service. Ryan Daly ’95 joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps International and worked at Loyola High School in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. John Tierney ’50 and his wife, Barbara, were dedicated volunteers and dedicated supporters of Jesuit ministries in East Africa.

President

In the past few years, I have been to many board meetings at other Jesuit schools, or meetings of Jesuit educators in North America. Recently, Cameron Keuning ’16 represented Georgetown Prep at a meeting of Classics teachers. For years, Isaac Piepszowski ’12 and I crossed paths during board meetings at Red Cloud Indian School, where he taught physics. Kyle Chandler ’99 is the founding principal at Xavier Jesuit Academy in Cincinnati and often comes to meetings of Jesuit school presidents and principals. Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J. ’06 and I serve together on the Board of Trustees at St. Ignatius in Cleveland and U of D Jesuit.

Recently, I attended the dedication of the new chapel at Loyola High School, just down the street. While their mission is slightly different from ours, we are the two Jesuit high schools in the Archdiocese. I am so happy that Cubs Chris Snyder ’85, Bill McGrail ’88, Dennis Morey ’00, Chris Kendall ’09, and Matthew McNamee ’10 are on staff there. Furthermore, Fr. J. Thomas McClain, S.J. ’67, Terence Thomas ’86, Michael Lopus ’86, James Heath ’93, and Tom Willis ’95 all serve on Loyola’s board of directors. The same is even more true here on Seven Mile. Throughout this magazine, you will see graduates who serve as faculty and staff, board members, coaches, and co-curricular moderators, as well as those who generously dedicate their time and talent—whether by speaking to a class or at a career fair—to help guide the next generation of U of D Jesuit alumni into the world.

This summer, a group of us from U of D Jesuit will travel to Creighton University for a Colloquium on Jesuit Education. We will join representatives from schools across the country and around the world to deepen our commitment and understanding of forming “Men and Women for Others.” Being part of this international mission is a privilege, and for those of us fortunate enough, there is no better place to do it than in Detroit.

Your

Br. Jim Boynton, S.J. • President

How many cities in Michigan are named after Jesuits?

A: Four cities honor Jesuit missionaries who helped shape the region’s history: St. Ignace, Allouez Township, Marquette and Charlevoix.

For more information about the Jesuit influence in Michigan, scan to visit our website.

Alumni Faculty & Staff

Thomas Burns ’20

Matthew Comment ’14

Alexander Davidson ’06

Garrett Donato ’05

Darrin Flowers ’01

David Gumbel ’00

Ezra Houghtby ’19

Pat Howe’71

Thomas Huber ’93

Sean Johnson ’89

Emerson Krick ’23

Umair Lodhi ’18

Michael Logan ’20

Brendan Lopus ’14

Timothy McVean, Jr. ’20

Jim Moceri, Jr. ‘76

Scott Nelson ’17

Tom O’Keefe ’64

Blair Ramsey ’09

Jeffrey Rizik ’10

Dan Spilker ’93

Clarence Wilson ’84

James Adams P '12, '15, '17

Jason Alexander '97

Br. James Boynton, S.J.

Michael Cooper '00

James Cowper '77

Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J. '06

Herbert Donovan P '16, '21

Tiffany Douglas P '24

Scott Hamerink '95

Mindy Howe

Rev. J. Thomas McClain, S.J. '67

Chris Polk '93, Board Chair

Andy Smith '94, P '23, '24, '27

Katie Sznewajs P '13, '15, '17, '19

Susan Telang P '24

Jason Tinsley '92, P '25

Denise Vecellio P '06, '12

Rich Wong

P - Parent of student or alumnus/ni

EDITOR

Sandra van Meek

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sandra van Meek

Br. James Boynton, S.J.

Christopher Smith, Ph.D

Kristen Rockwell

Jennifer Miller

Tania Macioce

RESEARCH

Dave Gumbel '00

Thomas O’Keefe ’64

Jim Moceri ’76

PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTORS

Laura McCaffery

Steve Tack

Tania Macioce

Br. James Boynton, S.J.

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Tania Macioce

PRINTING Advanced Marketing Partners

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR

Each year, U of D Jesuit honors alumni who exemplify its core values— leadership, service, and a commitment to being Men for Others. At the Alumni Senior Luncheon in April, held at the historic Detroit Athletic Club, the 2025 Alumni of the Year awards were presented to Dr. Warren E. Lockette ’73 and Mike Gill ’87.

These awards celebrate alumni who have not only achieved professional excellence but also live out the Jesuit mission through service, integrity, and unwavering support of U of D Jesuit. To be nominated for the award, an alumnus must meet the following criteria: show outstanding loyalty and support for U of D Jesuit; excel in his field or profession; use his talents to serve others, consistent with the Jesuit mission; and serve as a role model through high moral and ethical standards.

The distinguished Alumnus of the Year award began in 1966. If you would like to nominate an alumnus to receive this award in 2026, visit the Alumni page our website www.uofdjesuit.org/alumni.

Dr. Lockette

told the seniors how he found a sense of home at U of D Jesuit, grateful for the school’s academic rigor and the faculty who supported him through challenges. Their guidance helped him realize his potential and pursue a life of service in medicine, earning both his undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Michigan. As a civilian medical officer with the U.S. Navy, he advised leaders at Naval Special Warfare and U.S. Special Operations Command and took part in humanitarian missions across Central America and the Caribbean. Subsequently, he was appointed by the White House to serve as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs and Chief Medical Officer of the TRICARE Management Activity. His love of hockey, something he only picked up later in life, is just one of the many ways he stays connected to 'The High,' bringing him back for the alumni hockey game. It’s one of many ties that reflect what it means to be a true Man for Others. It was a fitting moment, then, to honor another alumnus whose life reflects those same Jesuit values in action.

Men for Others isn’t just a motto, it’s a lived experience, embodied daily by alumni who show up for their families, workplaces, and communities in ways both big and small.
-Mike Gill '87

Mike Gill

a businessman who continues to be very active with the school, reflected on his deep roots at U of D Jesuit, as a student, employee, coach, and proud parent (Michael Gill '25, Matt Gill '26) crediting the school and its community for shaping his path in life. He spoke of the enduring friendships, mentors like Coach Chris Woiwode '78 who inspired his lifelong passion for coaching, and the transformative power of a Jesuit education that instills values of empathy, leadership, and service. As Gill reflected, “Men for Others isn’t just a motto, it’s a lived experience, embodied daily by alumni who show up for their families, workplaces, and communities in ways both big and small.”

COVER

"At some point, either gradually or all at once, I decided to dedicate myself to a life of service.

StevEn Rigg '17

A Life of Service and Discovery

At 25, Steven Rigg ’17 has already lived extensively abroad—from teaching in Thailand to serving in the Peace Corps in Nepal. His path may differ from that of his peers, but Steven wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Though he can't pinpoint a single turning point, Steven credits U of D Jesuit—and his mom, who enrolled him—for instilling in him the values that guide his life. Within six months, he embraced the school fully. He remembers Br Jim Boynton, S.J., whose gripping stories and creative history projects sparked both curiosity and friendship. Steven remains close with high school friends Nick Pez, Josh Kim, Georges Aboukasm, TJ Thomas, and Gabe Seilo. A mission trip to Ecuador with the school’s service immersion program left a lasting mark. Confronted with poverty but also deep human kindness, Steven says, “I deeply felt my privilege for the first time in my life.” Inspired by the volunteers he met there, the idea of joining the Peace Corps took root.

He pursued his undergraduate studies at Indiana University, majoring in entrepreneurship, sustainable business, and philosophy. Though originally set on joining the Peace Corps, he also explored environmental activism—founding Students for a New Green World—and even considered a high-earning corporate path. But when COVID delayed his Peace Corps plans, he pivoted and moved to Thailand to teach. “I never imagined myself as a teacher,” Steven admits. “But I wanted to immerse myself in a new culture.” Over 16 months, he taught in Northern Thailand and later at Chiang Mai University. The experience taught him adaptability, and while teaching wasn’t his passion, it became a vehicle for the life he wanted to live.

Eventually, a friend in the Peace Corps encouraged him to apply. When a Nepal posting appeared, Steven jumped at the chance. “When I saw the Himalayas from the airplane, I knew I was in the right place. It was a moment of perfect clarity.”

Now based in Bhakunde Beshi, about two hours from Kathmandu, Steven teaches English to 6th, 7th, and 9th graders. His classes, often packed with over 50 students, vary in skill level, so he uses activity-based learning and introduced multiple-choice testing to improve assessment. He also leads English and Eco clubs and recently connected his students with peers in the Philippines and a U of D Jesuit 7th-grade class. "Helping other people, and being of service is something that genuinely brings me joy. It’s part of who I am.”

Steven is also invested in sustainability. During a visit from his mother, former U of D Jesuit faculty member Barbara Koster, they launched an Eco-bricking initiative—using plastic-filled bottles to build outdoor structures like classrooms. “In Nepal, waste is often burned or discarded. This project is a step toward a cleaner environment.”

The Peace Corps provided him with language and cultural training, allowing Steven to become conversational in Nepali. "Speaking the local language unlocks a whole new world. It changes how people see you—you’re not just a visitor, you’re part of the community.”

Looking ahead, Steven plans to pursue a master’s at Fordham University and hopes to work in humanitarian aid, particularly helping climate refugees.

To current Cubs, Steven offers this: "You don’t need to have it all figured out at 18—or even 25. Follow what feels right. Take language learning seriously, explore widely, and don’t be afraid to pivot. Throw as much on the wall as you can in your 20s and see what sticks.”

"Each time I was at a crossroads, I asked myself which path would make me happier and lead to less regret. Hasn’t failed me yet."

To follow Steven’s journey, visit stevenrigg.com.

Less than two years after graduating from U of D Jesuit, Alex Kuplicki ’23 has already made his mark across the globe. Now a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania, he’s pursuing a dual degree in International Studies and Business through the competitive Huntsman Program—an experience that’s taken him from Detroit to Japan, China, Taiwan, and soon, Vietnam.

ALEX Kuplicki '23 Bridging Cultures, Building Purpose

“I’m very proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish so far,” Alex said. “Right now, I’m studying abroad at National Taiwan University, taking courses like Contemporary Taiwanese Politics and the Political Economy of the People’s Republic of China. This summer, I’ll be going to Hanoi to work with a local researcher and study Vietnamese.” His motivation is rooted in correcting common misconceptions about Asia.

“So many people I meet have pre-conceived ideas about Asia—they think it’s dangerous or dirty or authoritarian,” he said. “That’s just not reality. There’s so much more complexity and richness here. My goal is to help foster better understanding and cooperation between the U.S. and East Asian countries, especially in education and economics.”

Alex’s interest in global affairs can be traced back to U of D Jesuit, where a junior year assignment proved especially formative. “The junior research paper in Mr. Hill’s Honors English III class really helped me develop my research and writing skills,” he said. “Those skills have been essential to my success at Penn and in my international studies.”

Alex’s time at U of D Jesuit also prepared him for the academic rigors of college. “I take about 21 course hours a semester, and honestly, I still felt busier at UDJ,” he laughed. “The discipline and time management I learned there gave me a real edge.”

Adjusting to life at Penn, though, came with challenges. “Moving across the country and being surrounded by people who went to elite boarding schools was intimidating,” he admitted. “It took time to catch up socially. What helped was just staying consistent—going to events, joining clubs, talking to people. Eventually, I found my place.” That persistence opened doors to unforgettable experiences. As part of a fourth-year Chinese course, Alex traveled to China, where he acted as a translator for his peers, led a trip to Tiananmen Square, and conversed in Mandarin with business leaders.

“That trip to Beijing and Qufu was really special,” he said. “I even got to learn how to play Mahjong from locals.” He also spent last summer interning in Tokyo with full funding from Penn, working on IT projects and practicing Japanese. His current study abroad experience in Taiwan, however, is especially meaningful—because he made it happen himself.

“Penn didn’t have a formal exchange with National Taiwan University, so I had to petition both my program and the university,” Alex said. “It took nearly 10 months, but it gave me the chance to fully customize my experience.”

Jesuit values continue to guide Alex’s journey—especially a lesson he took from a class on social justice. “In Mrs. Redigan’s Human Dignity and Social Justice class, I learned that ‘radical’ means ‘to the root,’” he said. “That’s shaped how I think about solving problems—not just addressing symptoms, but tackling root causes.”

Despite his global travels, Alex stays connected to U of D Jesuit through the friendships he formed. “I still keep in touch with a lot of my friends from UDJ, especially those I did musical theater with,” he said. “We hang out whenever I’m back in town and talk often.” His favorite memory? The senior year production of Little Shop of Horrors. When asked what advice he’d give to current Cubs, Alex emphasized the importance of forging your own path. “Don’t be defined by numbers or titles,” he said. “I wasn’t valedictorian. I didn’t win senior awards. I just pursued what mattered to me, and that’s paid off more than any recognition.”

He also encourages students to think about how their experiences tell a cohesive story. “Learn to craft your story,” Alex said. “Chasing prestige isn’t enough—employers and opportunities come when you can connect your passions in a meaningful way. Carve a path that reflects who you are.”

From Detroit to East Asia, Alex Kuplicki ’23 is doing just that—living out Jesuit values, building global connections, and shaping a future rooted in purpose.

My goal is to help foster better understanding and cooperation between the U.S. and East Asian countries.

God Will Take You Where You Need to Be.

VICTOR SMITH '24 Journey of Faith and Service

Victor Smith ’24 never imagined that five months after graduating from U of D Jesuit, he would find himself in South America, dedicating a year of his life to service; however, last fall, he found himself doing just that. He boarded a flight to Santa Cruz, Bolivia, to begin a journey that would not only challenge him but also reinforce his commitment to Jesuit values.

“When I first arrived, I worked at a juvenile detention center called Hogar Fortaleza,” Victor recalled. “It was a way to get adjusted to the climate and the heat, which was unlike anything I’d experienced before.” He soon transitioned to Hogar Sagrado Corazon, an orphanage for girls in Montero, an hour north of Santa Cruz. The orphanage, run by Franciscan sisters, houses girls as young as three and supports them through their education until they earn college or junior-college degrees. Victor quickly immersed himself in the daily rhythm of the orphanage, offering his assistance wherever needed but primarily focusing on tutoring the girls.

“My main job is just to do whatever I can to help the sisters,” he said. “Tutoring the girls has been my main focus, but every day brings a new way to contribute.”

Victor’s passion for service was ignited during his time at The High. “Going to U of D Jesuit opened my eyes to the value of service to others,” he explained. “Mottos like AMDG and being Men for Others weren’t just words—they were a way of life.”

His first real experience with service came through the school’s Labre Ministry. “As an underclassman, I joined Labre and went downtown to distribute food and clothing while sharing conversations with the homeless,” he said. “That was when I realized how much I loved serving others.”

Having spent several years of his childhood in Cali, Colombia, his mother Andrea’s birth country, where he attended a Jesuit school, Victor knew he wanted to volunteer in a Spanish-speaking country. “I wanted to go somewhere where my fluent Spanish would be useful,” he said. “At the same time, I wanted to experience a different South American culture.” His father, Andy, a member from the Class of 1994, had an experience as a volunteer in Mexico after college that also played a role in shaping his decision. “He always talked about how much he learned and matured during that year, and I wanted to experience something similar.”

The opportunity to defer his admission to the University of Notre Dame, his dream school, for a year of service solidified his decision. “I had always thought about doing a year of service, but I didn’t think I could do both,” Victor admitted. “When I found out I could defer my admission and they would hold my spot, everything clicked into place.” Adjusting to life in Bolivia came with its challenges. “Being so far from my family and home for so long has been tough,” he shared. “And the heat—especially in December, January, and February—is relentless.” However, staying connected with family through calls and messages helped ease the distance.

Despite the challenges, Victor has found deep fulfillment in his work. “The biggest reward has been the trust the sisters have placed in me,” he said. “Hearing them say how helpful I’ve been and how much they appreciate my work makes everything worthwhile.

One of the most memorable moments of his time in Bolivia came during Christmas at the orphanage. Along with two German volunteers, Victor was responsible for organizing and distributing gifts for the 150 girls. “I had never been in charge of Christmas before,” he said with a laugh. “We spent two days traveling between Montero and Santa Cruz to buy presents, negotiating with sellers, and arranging transport.”

On Christmas Day, Victor took on an unexpected role—Santa Claus. “I put on the red suit, stuffed a pillow under my belt, and wore a fake beard,” he recalled. “The gym was packed with screaming girls waiting for their presents. Seeing their joy made me appreciate Christmas in a whole new way.”

Another highlight was the feast day of San Juan Bosco, the patron saint of orphans. “All the orphanages in the area gathered for Mass with the local bishop, followed by a day of dancing, sports, and celebration,” he said. “It really hit home seeing so many children without families being cared for by dedicated religious sisters. It made me realize just how important our work is.”

Even as he continues his service in Bolivia, Victor stays connected to his roots. “I keep in touch with my younger brother, [Santiago ’27] who is a student at U of D, as well as my older brother [Henry ’23], an alum,” he said. “I also stay in contact with Ms. Curran, who played a huge role in getting me here.”

Reflecting on his journey, Victor credits his Jesuit education with preparing him for this experience. “The emphasis on service and being a man for others pushed me to take this path,” he said. “If I could give my high school self any advice, it would be not to worry so much. Keep working hard, and God will take you where you need to be.”

Global Education Experiences

For many Cubs, these formative immersive experiences begin during their time at U of D Jesuit. Our students grow by immersing themselves in different cultures and gaining a deeper understanding of the nation and the world through our global education programming and connecting with our Jesuit global network. U of D Jesuit students who take these opportunities practice other languages, make new friends and begin to open their minds about the possibilities post-graduation.

Our inspired faculty create these global education experiences, that begin in the classroom, through cultural and service immersion trips to Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean and Asia, providing students with transformative experiences that broaden their perspectives. Also, as part of the Jesuit Global Network of Schools, U of D Jesuit connects students to a rich tradition of academic excellence and global engagement.

Additionally, our students have the opportunity to travel as members of co-curricular clubs and the performing arts, for conferences, competitions, tournaments, events, college and university tours and more. To learn more about all of the wonderful places our students travel, scan the QR code.

We’d love to hear from you! Share your stories of global adventures, service work, or unique careers with us—and inspire the next generation of Cubs! Send them to communications@uofdjesuit.org CALLING ALL CUB ALUM!

Ignatian Educator

SERVES AS A GUIDE WITH AND FOR STUDENTS ON THEIR FORMATIONAL JOURNEYS IN A JESUIT SCHOOL. ENGAGES IN PROFESSIONAL AND RELIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT TO SUSTAIN A COMMUNITY COMMITTED TO THE JESUIT MISSION.

Teaching the Classicists in a Modern, Tech-Driven World

To be an Ignatian educator is about far more than teaching content. It means guiding students to become open to growth, religious, loving, committed to doing justice, and intellectually competent.

Since beginning his journey at U of D Jesuit in 1991, Nicholas Young has embodied these values in every classroom moment. Young first encountered the Jesuit tradition while studying in the Classics Department at Wayne State University. From that moment, he felt a deep connection to the Ignatian mission—and knew he had found his vocational home when invited to join the U of D Jesuit faculty by then-president Fr. Malcolm Carron, S.J. '35 and former principal Fr. Richard Twohig, S.J.

Ignatian philosophy has influenced his approach to teaching and mentoring his students. His belief is that teaching is not just about delivering content but also being a model of integrity of action for his students: being a model extended by Ignatius and Xavier. He sees his vocation through the lens of Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam (For the Greater Glory of God).

“This philosophy means doing the best you can, in what you do, so that more (magis) of what you do, shows the greater glory of what God has given you, and the world around you,” said Young.

In the classroom, Young applies Ignatian pedagogy, experiential learning, reflection, and action—to nurture not just the intellect, but the whole person. Young strives to give his best so that his work may reflect something greater. That means not only sharing knowledge, but also caring for students’ intellectual, emotional, and physical well-being. He leads students through reading in either Latin and/or English, looking for meaning and direction of thought, and discuss what the collective has discovered, and write a reflection piece about what they did.

At The High, collaboration with colleagues is key, not only to cross-curricular learning, but also being attentive to the emotional and physical well-being of your students. If Young sees a student in distress, he surrounds him with concern, care and support, creating a safe place for him—physically or emotionally. That spirit of accompaniment includes his colleagues as well. Having that helping hand and showing colleagues and students that they have each other’s backs: being a man or woman for others.

“This extends to my making myself available to new teachers on campus in whatever way I may assist, them,” said Young. “The people I met when I came here did the same for me.”

While the world around education has rapidly evolved, especially with technology, Young remains thoughtful about how to integrate digital tools into the classroom. He views technology as an aid, not an end. In his classroom, students are expected to be good digital citizens and be taught safe digital use. Utilizing technology for research is one of his main focuses, along with writing with integrity using resources like Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT. While it may be tempting students to take shortcuts, it will not necessarily encourage learning. Young said that research shows that physically writing something down is more effective than typing it or speaking it into a voice writer program.

Nick Young is more than just an educator of the classicists. He has received numerous accolades, including from the University of Michigan with the Glenn M. Knudsvig Award for Outstanding Latin Teaching in Michigan Secondary Schools, Detroit Classical Association Teacher of the Year, Meritus Teaching Award from the American Classical League, and the first secondary and post-secondary teacher highlighted and published in the teaching guide series for PBS NOVA programs. Young has been asked to contribute to books, panels, and board committees for organizations. In fall 2024, Jesuit Classics educators from across the country recognized Young for 55 years in education and 34 years as a Jesuit educator—a testament to his enduring influence.

A recent highlight of his career was organizing the Black Classicists Exhibit , originally curated by Dr. Michele Valerie Ronnick of Wayne State University and funded by the Loeb Classical Library Foundation at Harvard. First shown at the Detroit Public Library, the exhibit highlights the remarkable contributions of 19th and 20th-century Black scholars of the Classics—many of whom overcame slavery and institutional racism to become respected teachers and researchers.

For Young, projects like these are more than professional endeavors—they are acts of passion and justice, perfectly aligned with his Jesuit calling.

His legacy is one of rigorous teaching, deep compassion, and an unwavering commitment to forming students for the greater glory of God.

“THIS PHILOSOPHY MEANS DOING THE BEST YOU CAN, IN WHAT YOU DO, SO THAT MORE (MAGIS) OF WHAT YOU DO, SHOWS THE GREATER GLORY OF WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN YOU, AND THE WORLD AROUND YOU ”

The Maroon & White Gala, our signature fundraising event, was held at the Atheneum Hotel in Detroit last November to raise funds for tuition assistance—helping us provide a Jesuit education to more deserving students who proudly call U of D Jesuit their second home as they are guided and prepared for college and life after high school.

Current parents, alumni, parents of alumni, and friends of the school gathered for the festive evening. The live auction featured a wide selection of luxury vacation packages, exclusive sporting event experiences, and the crowd favorite: “Dinner with the Jesuits.”

Guests were welcomed by a lively performance from the U of D Jesuit Jazz Orchestra as they entered the Gala.

WE'RE COMING HOME!

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Maroon & White Gala, returning on Saturday, November 8. We’re thrilled to announce that this year’s event will come home to U of D Jesuit. As is tradition, the evening will begin with Mass in the school's Chapel of the North American Martyrs. Would you like to sponsor, advertise, or donate to the 2025 Gala? Visit: www.uofdjesuit.org/GALA or contact the Gala Office at 313-927-2332.

Around Campus & Beyond

U of D Jesuit Honored by Detroit Police Commissioners

U of D Jesuit was recognized by the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners with a formal resolution presented by Commissioner Linda Bernard (District 2) to Br. Jim Boynton, S.J. and Fr. Dan Kennedy, S.J., acknowledging the outstanding work being done at the school and in the surrounding community.

Performing Arts

Domenic Maceroni ’25 earned the highest possible rating of “1” for his piano performance at the Michigan Band and Orchestra Solo and Ensemble Festival held at the Detroit School for the Arts this winter. With this outstanding achievement, Domenic qualified for the State Solo and Ensemble Festival.

Cubs Give a Strong Performance at Nationals

U of D Jesuit High School and Academy chess teams competed at the USCF SuperNationals in Orlando. The Academy team chose to play up a section, highlighting their unity and competitive spirit across two divisions. Under Coach Chevelle Brown’s leadership, players embodied brotherhood and teamwork throughout the tournament. Shahzad Arshad ’26 placed 10th overall in the K-12 U1900 section, helping the high school team—Shahzad, Wallace Harris ’26, Shiraz Arshad ’26, and Chase Harris ’26—earn an impressive sixth-place finish. Our combined high school and Academy team—Caleb Benning ’28, Dylan Key ’30, Oliver Fagan ’27, Michael Etters II ’30, Eros Kakarriqi ’28, and Tyrone Nolan ’29—competed fiercely in the K-12 U1200 section, gaining valuable rating points to fuel a strong season ahead.

Inscape Wins Again

Inscape the school's literary-art magazine, set a new record this year, earning four national awards from the American Scholastic Press Association:

• First Place with Special Merit – Top national ranking

• Outstanding Art – Dylan Donley ’24 for Split Self

• Outstanding Photographer – Evan Tack ’25 for wildlife photography

• Outstanding Milestone – Celebrating 30 years of Inscape

Congratulations to moderator Alexander Davidson ’06, the Class of 2024 editorial team—Thomas Angell, Graham Cesa, Alexander Hurley, Grayson Johnson, John Moreno, and William Waldman—and their 42-member staff. A judge praised Inscape as “an inspiration” and “a model for up-and-coming magazines.”

Additionally, Inscape earned REALM First Class distinction from the National Council of Teachers of English. Of 422 magazines from 46 states and five countries, only 125 received the top honor—just four from Michigan.

2025 Inscape Editorial Team

MUDJ Sailing

U of D Jesuit sailing had a remarkable fall and spring season, marked by strong performances and a growing team. The program proudly returned to its coed roots, as Mercy students joined our sailors for the first time in four years. The fall season saw junior varsity sailors Pfeiffer Atwood ’28 and Alex Grabowski ’25 contribute to the team’s momentum. Varsity sailors Graham Rebain ’25, Maverick Killips ’25, Charlie Walton ’25, Charlie Weikel ’26, and Quinn Elliot ’26 competed in key events including the coed keelboat qualifier at Bayview Yacht Club. The team captured first place at the Shephard Championship in Chicago and earned an impressive second place at the Great Oaks National Championship in New Orleans. Despite the windy and cold conditions of the spring season, the team stayed strong. Rebain, Killips, Walton, Weikel, and Elliot led the Varsity squad to a first-place finish at the Mallory PreQualifier and a second-place result at the Baker Team Race PreQualifier—both held on Cass Lake in Keego Harbor. The team also grew in numbers, welcoming more Mercy students to the coed MUDJ squad. The Varsity team capped off the season with a trip to Chicago for the regional qualifier of the Mallory Championship, finishing 11th out of 20 teams—matching their best result ever at this highly competitive regatta.

Visual Arts

Under the guidance of U of D Jesuit Art Department teachers Mr. Ned Devine and Ms. Kristen Rockwell, several students earned top honors in this year’s Scholastic Art Awards. Aidan Treharne ’25 received two Gold Keys, five Silver Keys, and two Honorable Mentions for work in Drawing & Illustration, Photography, and Portfolio. Antonio Said ’25 earned a Silver Key for his portfolio and an Honorable Mention in Drawing & Illustration. Asa Smith ’28 was awarded a Silver Key for his drawing titled Polar Opposites. Congratulations to these talented artists for their outstanding achievements.

Forensics Speech

Under the guidance of Mr. Alexander Davidson '06, two Cubs represented the Archdiocese of Detroit at the National Catholic Forensic League's 2025 Grand National Tournament in Chicago, along with 428 schools from 63 diocese across the country. Keshav Desaraju '27 (left) competed in the category of Oratorical Declamation, performing a speech about society's unhealthy fascination with trauma and how to move forward in a positive way. He finished 19th nationally in the category. Daniel Stella '28 (right) competed in the category of Oral Interpretation of Literature, performing a selection of poetry and an excerpt from George Orwell's Animal Farm

Robocubs

This has been an amazing season for the Robocubs on their road to the world championships in Houston. The team had the best performing robot in the program’s history, even earning the Excellence in Engineering Award for their professional approach to the design process during districts where they reached the finals at Rennaissance High School in March. The team even made school history at the Robotics World Championship in Houston in April. The team advanced further in the playoff matches than ever before and finished the season ranked 69th worldwide out of 3,690 teams and placing in the top 1% statewide. A truly elite accomplishment!

National Merit Scholars

Named Maverick Killips ’25 has been named a National Merit Finalist in the prestigious 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program—one of just 2,500 students selected from a pool of 1.3 million who took the 2023 PSAT/NMSQT. He was previously named a Semifinalist, an honor awarded to less than one percent of U.S. seniors. This recognition reflects Maverick’s outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and involvement beyond the classroom.

Additionally, William Cahill ’25, Nathan Khoury ’25, Finn Owsley ’25, and Graham Rebain ’25 were named National Merit Commended Scholars, scoring among the top 50,000 students nationwide.

Will Cahill, Finn Owsley, Maverick Killips, Graham Rebain, Nathan Khoury
Aidan Treharne ’25

Strengthening Alumni-Student Connections CUBnected

At U of D Jesuit, the bond between alumni and current students extends far beyond graduation. Alumni actively engage with students by providing mentorship, real-world insights, and exposure to a variety of industries and vocations.

Throughout the academic year, many alumni return to campus not only to visit or attend special events, but also to share their knowledge and experiences with students. Others invite students to visit their workplaces, organizations, or industry events, offering valuable firsthand learning opportunities.

One such example is Elijah Collins ’18, who spoke to Ms. Kathleen Curran’s 7th grade class after they completed an assignment on “What is the value of a U of D Jesuit education?” Using his own journey as an example, Elijah shared how his Jesuit education helped shape him into the man he is today, preparing him for success both academically and athletically at Michigan State University, Oklahoma State University, and in the NFL.

Other alumni from Ms. Curran’s class who returned to speak to her 7th and 9th grade students about how well U of D Jesuit prepared them for college included Josiah Graddick ’22 and Yohan Lewis ’24.

Alumni have also made a significant impact by engaging students in discussions on business finance, sports and entertainment, sponsorships, communications, and marketing—both in the classroom and at their places of business —thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Cathy Coccia. Notable alumni contributors to Mrs. Coccia’s students include:

Jason Tinsley ‘92 (J.P. Morgan Private Bank) and Derek Greening ‘18 (J.P. Morgan Private Bank), who discussed the fundamentals of investing and developing essential financial skills for the future.

John Wolski ’93 (Ilitch Sports and Entertainment) and Kris Mathis ’15 (Google), who provided valuable Marketing industry insights to students.

Pat Desmond ’06 (Evertree Insurance) and Eric Scheible ’89 (Frasco Caponigro Wineman & Scheible, PLLC), who helped students refine their professional skills through mock job interviews, résumé-building, and networking strategies.

Noah Tylutki ’17 (Bowling Green University Athletics) and Edwin Piner ‘03 (Wilson Management Alliance), who visited campus to discuss career opportunities in sports and entertainment.

Peter Kellett ‘75 (Dykema) and Henry Brennan ‘75 (Howard & Howard), who spoke on the topic of entrepreneurship as well as share insights for smart financial practices.

Andrew Hayner ‘04 (DT Midstream) spoke to the students in Building a Financial Future II about paying for college and managing finances during and after college.

John Wolski ’93
Elijah Collins ’18
Kris Mathis ’15
Noah Tylutki ’17

Other alumni to have imparted some valuable words and lessons to our current students this last year included:

Though newly minted alumni of The High, Leroy Blyden ’25 and Sebastian Randolph ’25 shared some parting wisdom with Mr. James Slaughter’s 7th-grade theology class—offering insights on how to succeed and manage their time effectively during their journey at U of D Jesuit.

U of D Jesuit Jazz Orchestra alumni have come in to work with, perform with, or talk with Mr. Joshua James’s music students this year including John Rutherford ’94 (owner, Cadieux Cafe and a professional trombone player), Michael Abbo ’19 (professional trombonist and bassist), Nicholas Love ’21 (percussion instructor at annual marching band camp), Chris Kendall ’09 (professional musician), and Nick Keuten ’22 (currently pursuing degree).

Fr. Joe Daoust, S.J. ’57 and Fr. Bobby Karle, S.J. ’03 spoke with Ms. Hannah Coley’s theology classes. Fr. Daoust spoke about the Indian Boarding School history of Red Cloud School and his perspective of Truth Telling and Healing Processes to Ms. Coley’s Human Dignity & Social Justice classes. Fr. Karle spoke to the Ignatian Prayer classes about his work in Ignatian Spirituality and Yoga and the role that yoga has played in his understanding of the Spiritual Exercises.

Robert Schilp ’21, a junior majoring in Data Science at the University of Michigan, hosted Ms. Teresa Lien’s world language students at the U-M Language Resource Center, where he led one of the learning stations and introduced them to Tiangong Kaiwu, a valuable ancient Chinese encyclopedia that highlights the ingenuity of traditional Chinese science and technology. He further demonstrated how to explore the book’s intricate details through a computer game, making classical literature both accessible and engaging for modern learners.

Students in the Business Club, moderated by Mr. Atif Lodhi, have had the opportunity to engage with several alumni during recent meetings. Nicholas Hammer ’07, Growth and Development Director with Northwestern Mutual, visited to share his journey after high school—from graduating from Marquette University and teaching at his alma mater, to earning an MBA at Michigan State University and advancing to his current role. Craig Castelli ’99, Founder & CEO of Caber Hill Advisors in Chicago, IL, also joined a meeting via Zoom to discuss his work in business brokerage and investment banking. Students asked thoughtful questions about his career, industry insights, and advice for transitioning into college and the workforce.

William McConico ’24, Sahyir Prostell ’24, and Grant Askew ’00, presented to Reverand J.B. Field’s class on African American Spirituality.

Michael Hannosh ’21 and Frank Blackman ’21 presented at the beNice. Symposium at Ford Field last winter to an audience of 250 high school and middle school students from across lower Michigan, including 18 from U of D Jesuit. As founding members and officers of beNice. UDJ during their time at the school, Mike and Frank spoke about Mindful Peer, the mental health app they developed, which is slated for release later this year. Their work has been supported by the Mental Health Foundation of Western Michigan, where beNice. is head-quartered. The two were also college roommates at Loyola University. Mike graduated in December and now works as a financial wealth manager, while Frank graduated in May.

Several U of D Jesuit alumni who have embraced religious vocations have returned to campus to give back in meaningful ways—presiding over all-school and special Masses, and offering the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Among them are Fr. David Buersmeyer ’71, Fr. Grayson Heenan ’06, Bishop Bob Fisher ’77, Fr. Pierre Konja ’04,(pictured) and Fr. Christopher Talbot ’84. Fr Tom McClain S.J. ’67, Superior of the Detroit Jesuit Community for the Midwest Province, led the Detroit Jesuit Heritage Tour & Pilgrimage in addition to assisting in offering Reconciliation at the school.

William McConico ’24, Sahyir Prostell ’24
Michael Hannosh ’21 Frank Blackman ’21

CAREER DAY

A FUTURE IN FOCUS

We welcomed 27 incredible panelists, including 21 proud alumni representing graduates from 1962 to 2021. This was the first Career Day at the school since 2019, and panelists from diverse industries— including advertising, education, finance, law, law enforcement, medicine, philanthropy, politics, real estate, military, the restaurant business, technology, sports, entertainment, and more—shared their professional journeys and insights with students in the Academy, freshmen and sophomores. The event offered a unique opportunity for students to explore potential career paths and engage directly with experienced professionals in an inspiring and informative setting.

We would like to thank all of our speakers, including Cub alums Aaron Abney ’16 (Real Estate), Dr. Eric Ayers ’80 (Medical Doctor and Professor at DMC), Kevin Begic ’17 (Software Engineer), Dr. J. Andrew Berkowski ’01 (U of M Medical Center, Neurology), Jack Bernard ’10 (Investment Banking), Stuart Daly ’92 (Realtor), Aghogho Edevbie ’05 (Deputy Secretary of State – Attorney), Mark Greer ’09 (Philanthropic Advisor), Michael Hannosh ’21 (Co-Founder of beNice. / Entrepreneurial App Creator), Dr. Steve Hardy ’99 (Medical Doctor, Neurology), Godwin Ihentuge ’02 (Restaurateur, Yum Village), Rick Joseph ’86 (Teacher, Detroit Public Schools Community District), Tim Lenhard ’85 (Lenhard Financial

Services), John Lucas ’00 (Ops Manager, Comerica Bank), Nick Lundberg ’21 (Sportswriter), Chris Merlo ’72 (Executive Speechwriter), Steven Ostrowski ’14 (Manufacturing Engineer), Jeremy Otto ’13 (Sports Anchor), Greg Russell ’74 (Radio & TV Host and Movie Reviewer), Steve Sharp ’96 (Marketing and Advertising, Six Sigma Green Belt in Project Management), John Talpos ’62 (Lawyer)

These mentorship opportunities exemplify the enduring strength of the U of D Jesuit alumni network and its commitment to preparing students for future success. Thank you, Cub alumni! AMDG

If you are a Cub alumnus who would like to participate in the classroom, Career Day, or would like to invite a class to your company to provide real life experiences in the workforce, please contact the alumni relations office at alumni@uofdjesuit.org.

Nick Lundberg ’21
Aghogho Edevbie ’05
Tim Lenhard ’85
Rick Joseph ’86
Alumni Career Day 2025
Steven Ostrowski ’14

Cub Swim & Dive Captures 2025 MHSAA D2 Championship

First State Championship in Program History

U of D Jesuit’s varsity swim & dive team made history on March 15, winning the 2025 MHSAA Division 2 State Championship at Oakland University. In a highly competitive field, the Cubs delivered a record-breaking performance, scoring 305 points to beat runner-up Byron Center by 48.5 and third-place Birmingham Seaholm by 98. This wasn’t just a win—it was a statement. The Cubs broke multiple state and school records, establishing themselves as a dominant force.

Led by Head Coach Drew Edson and assistants Matt Comment ’14, John Santeiu IV ’10, Eric Schuman, and Henry Van Faussien, the Cubs claimed their first state swim & dive title—and the seventh overall in Cub athletics history. Edson was named MHSAA D2 Coach of the Year by the Michigan Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association (MISCA), highlighting the program’s culture of excellence.

The Road to States

Consistency paved the way. At the Catholic High School League (CHSL) Championships, the Cubs won their third title in four years, defeating Catholic Central 536–415 at Kettering High School. They took first in seven of 12 events, with 16 swimmers finishing in the top eight. A standout performance came from Charlie McCuiston ’27, who broke the CHSL 100-yard freestyle record with a time of 45.72 (previous record: 45.85). The diving team swept the CHSL Championships for the first time in school history. Hank Biebuyck ’25, Wyatt Ramseyer ’27, and Aidan Franklin ’25 finished first, second, and third, respectively. They were coached by alum John Santeiu IV ’10, who still holds the CHSL 1-meter diving record (579.05, set in 2010). By season’s end, 23 Cubs earned 58 state cuts—the largest roster the program has ever sent to States.

Leading the Charge

Evan Tack ’25, a Boston College commit, led with standout performances at States. He told Detroit Catholic: “From the work we put in, it was great reaching that milestone. We had strong swims from every grade—especially the freshmen, who scored big and helped us put together three strong relays.”

A Historic Season

Several Cubs earned spots on the MISCA Dream Team, which honors the top performances across all three state divisions. Selections are based on fastest state final times, including relay lead-offs, with only one individual event per swimmer recognized. Honorees: Evan Tack ’25 (200 IM, 400 Free Relay), Patrick MacKillop ’25 (100 Breaststroke), Jack McCuiston ’28, Matt Garza ’25, Charlie McCuiston ’27 (400 Free Relay), and Jack Fritz ’25 (Paralympic 50 Free).

Congratulations to the entire team on the season that redefined Cub swim & dive. From underclassman standouts to senior leaders, every athlete played a role in bringing the state championship to South Cambridge.

For a complete list of records and accomplishments from the 2025 MHSAA Championships, please scan on the QR code or visit www.uofdjesuit.org/2025MHSAA-champions.

DOMINATING THE DEPTHS

ATHLETICS

PAT DONNELLY

Much has changed with Cub athletics this year. Coach Pat Donnelly, who guided varsity basketball for the past 17 seasons, stepped away from his coaching responsibilities following the basketball season to serve as the school’s full time Director of Athletics. Donnelly was interim Director of Athletics throughout the year.

Fall and winter sports honors

Donnelly took over as the head coach of the Cubs in the spring of 2008. During his tenure, he guided the team to an overall record of 310-89, winning 78 percent of their Catholic High School League (CHSL) games, including eight CHSL Championships and a record-setting seven consecutive titles (2012-13 through 2018-19). Since the 2010-11 season, the Cubs won 13 District titles, including the last 12 consecutively. They won six regional titles, reached four Final Fours and captured the MHSAA State Championship in 2016 with a perfect record of 28-0. The 2016 Cubs finished the season ranked fourth in the nation.

Donnelly has been honored as the CHSL Coach of the Year five times, as well as the Michigan Coach of the Year and the National Coach of the Year (2016). He was inducted into the CHSL Hall of Fame in 2023. Cub alumnus and current assistant coach, Chris Jenkins ’12, will take over the reins of the program, effective immediately. Jenkins has been a member of the U of D Jesuit coaching staff for four years after successful stints as a player at the University of Colorado, University of Detroit Mercy, and as a professional player in Europe and Asia.

Look for our spring sports wrap-up in the Fall 2025 issue of Highlights

FALL

SOCCER

All-Catholic – Camden Arndt ’25, Connor Dugan ’25

All-Academic – Connor Dugan ’25

All-League – Jordan Lee ’25

All-District – Camden Arndt ‘25, Jordan Lee ‘25, Connor Dugan ‘25, Parker Dokho ‘26, Vasco Marra ‘27, and Owen Bishop ‘27

Student-athlete continuing his soccer career in college: Camden Arndt (Kalamazoo College)

FOOTBALL

MHSFCA All-Regional Honors: Dante Banks ’25, Jacob Bellinger ’25, Zach Green ’25, Kasim Gozic ’25

All Catholic – Kasim Gozic ’25, Zach Green ’25

All League – Dante Banks ’25, Kellen Miller ’28

All Academic – Jacob Bellinger ’25

Student-athletes continuing their football careers in college: Jacob Bellinger (Saginaw Valley State University), Kasim Gozic (Wayne State University), Zach Green (United States Military Preparatory Academy West Point), Nolan Hakim (Kalamazoo College), Jordan Hearns (Adrian College)

TENNIS

All- State MHSAA – Truman Yaldoo ‘26 (First Team), William Cahill ‘25 (Honorable Mention), Liam Nantais ‘28 (Honorable Mention)

All-Catholic–William Cahill ’25 and Dimitri Goffas ’25

All-League–Arun Kensora ‘25

All-Academic–John Draper ‘25

CROSS COUNTRY

All-Catholic – Justin Mkrtumian ‘27

2024-2025 FALL-WINTER HONORS

WINTER

BASKETBALL

All-Catholic – Leroy Blyden, Jr. ’25, David Herron III ’25, Xavier Johnson ‘25

All-Academic – Chris Howard ‘25

Detroit News All-Detroit Boys Basketball Team – Leroy Blyden ’25 (First Team), Xavier Johnson ’25 (First Team), David Herron III ’25 (Third Team).

Student-athletes continuing their basketball careers in college: Leroy Blyden, Jr. (University of Toledo), David Herron III (Lake Superior State), Sebastian Randolph (Macomb CC)

BOWLING

MHSAA State Qualifiers – Deon Farmer ’25, Emory Stone ’26

All-Catholic – Deon Farmer II ’25, Emory Stone ’26

All-League – Michael Mutone ’26

All-Academic – Will McLean ’25

SWIM & DIVE

2025 MHSAA Division 2 State Champions (see pg.20)

WRESTLING

MHSAA State Qualifiers – Tristan Thompson ’25, Zachary Green ’25

MHSAA Regional Qualifiers – Tristan Thompson ‘25, Zachary Green ‘25, Lucas Gray ‘25, Terry Daniels ‘25, Augustus Killips ‘27

All-Catholic – Lucas Gray ‘25 (190 lbs.) and Zach Green ‘25 (HWT) – 1st; Terry Daniels ‘25 (120 lbs.) – 2nd; Triston Thompson ‘25 (165 lbs.), Bennett Vesprini ‘25 (150 lbs.), Thomas Jamil ‘25 (144 lbs.) – 3rd; Augustus Killips ‘27 (106 lbs.) – 4th; Tristan Thompson ’25 achieved a significant milestone, securing over 100 career varsity wins.

Team Honors:

Academic All-State Honors

CHSL Tournament Runners-up–tied for highest ever finish in program history Detroit City Tournament Champions

U of D Jesuit vs. De La Salle Challenge Cup Winners (First time since 2020)

ACADEMY ATHLETICS

Academy track & field were crowned the 2025 CYO Champions, their third title in as many years and 12th title in program history. Congratulations to Coaches Kristen Rockwell, Darrin Flowers ’01, Malcolm Jones ’18 and Jeffery Knight '20. Our Academy track & field program has now won the CYO championship title in 1976, 1990, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2019, 2021, 2023, 2024, and 2025. Academy Baseball also had a successful year as they reached the semifinals of the CYO championship tournament.

The spirit of brotherhood doesn’t end at graduation, and it is evident with the 30+ alumni who return to served as coaches, guiding young Cubs athletes beyond the classroom. Some are faculty members while others juggle full-time careers. United by their shared love for U of D Jesuit, they exemplify what it means to live the mission: forming Men for Others through commitment, mentorship, and presence.

2024-2025 Alumni Athletic Coaches

Donald Johnson ’20 Football

Mario Hall II ’20 Football

Lonnie Hurst, Jr. ’03 Football

Brendan Lopus ’14 Soccer

Kevin O'Brien ’09 Ac. Soccer

Jacob Lyon ’09 Ac. Soccer

David Rozman ’09 Ac. Soccer

Brandon Yanik ’09 Ac. Soccer

Chris Jenkins ’12 Basketball

Justin Tarplin ’17 Basketball

Bill Blackwell ’73 Basketball

Blair Ramsey ’09 Fr. Basketball

Patrick Kirby ’18 Ac Basketball

Jake Vincent ’11 Wrestling

Aaron Rife ’11 Wrestling

Joseph Stachelek ’24 Wrestling

Dominic Recchia ’06 Hockey

Tommy Apap ’14 Hockey

Alex Chapie ’20 Hockey

Vince Recchia ’08 Hockey

Enzo Recchia ’13 Hockey

Matt Comment ’14 Swim & Dive

John Santieu ’10 Swim & Dive

Darrin Flowers ’01 Bowling

Cole Brock ’19 Track & Field

Darrin Flowers ’01 Track & Field

Malcolm Jones ’18 Ac. Track & Field

Jeffery Knight ’20 Ac. Track & Field

Christian Werner ’15 Baseball

Chris Dael ’10 Ac Baseball

Paul Diehl ’73 Golf

Sean Johnson ’89 Golf

Dan Pierce ’73 Golf

Brad Gray ’91 Lacrosse

Peter Hoffman ’06 Lacrosse

Scott Nelson ’17 Strength & Conditioning

Cub Legends

Last fall, U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame welcomed their Class of 2024 inductees who exemplify the enduring values of the Cub athletic tradition. These honorees are more than champions in their sports—they are leaders, scholars, and role models who have left a legacy.

Chuck Forberg ’54

Chuck Forberg was one of the most accomplished athletes of his class, earning varsity letters in football, basketball, and baseball.

Dick Duffield ’67†

An All-City, All-State, and All-American swimmer, Dick helped end Detroit Austin’s long-standing dominance in Catholic League swimming.

Mike Whalen ’74

Mike earned varsity letters in football and track and was named U of D Jesuit’s top student-athlete as the Said Rahaim award winner.

Raymond Lee ’82†

As a First Team All-State basketball player, Raymond helped form one of the greatest backcourts in school history.

Vince Alexander ’99

Vince was a multi-sport athlete best known for his leadership on the basketball court.

†deceased

Chuck Forberg ‘54
Dick Duffield ‘67
Mike Whalen ‘74
Raymond Lee ‘82
Vince Alexander ‘99
Ryan Anderson ‘01
Dan Fields ‘09
Team Ring of Honor: 2004-2005 Varsity Hockey Team Coach: Rick Bennetts

Ryan Anderson ’01

Ryan was a four-year varsity hockey standout, team co-captain, and First Team All-State honoree.

Dan Fields ’09

Dan earned All-State honors in baseball and was named MHBCA Mr. Baseball in 2009. Drafted by the Detroit Tigers, he made his Major League debut in 2015 with a hit in his first game.

Tom Coyne ’62 Distinguished Service Award –Mike and Michele Knoblauch

Founders of Detroit Maroon Hockey and longtime supporters of U of D Jesuit hockey, Mike and Michele helped in the development of Cub players. Their sons, Jake ’14 and Sam ’16, both played for the Cubs. The program’s annual MVP award now bears their name.

Ring of Honor – 2004–2005 Varsity Hockey Team

After a 10-13-1 regular season, the Cubs shocked the state with a thrilling playoff run that ended in a triple-overtime victory at the Detroit Skate Club. Led by defenseman Dominic Recchia ’06 (now U of D Jesuit Head Hockey Coach) and goalie Matt Paletta ’06, the team advanced to the Frozen Four for the first time in program history and was honored as one of the tournament’s top academic squads.

Mike and Michele Knoblauch
Chuck Forberg and son
Top row: Vince Alexander, Ryan Anderson, Dan Fields, Family of Raymond Lee. Bottom row: Mike Whalen, Dick Duffield
2004-2005 Hockey Team. Brian Vandenbossche '05, Bryan Murphy '05, Donté Jenkins '08, Scott Granger '06, Assistant Coach Dave Gumbel '00

Chronicles CUB Alumni Life Updates

Brothers Jim McCarthy ‘68, Dan McCarthy ‘69 and Tom McCarthy ’70 had a family and Cub Reunion in their native Maine in August 2024.

and

Jonathan Warshay ’78 was selected by the West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees to become Township Supervisor. He oversees the Police, Fire, Building, Development Services, Engineering, Environmental, Code Enforcement, Human Resources, Information Technology, Budgeting, Purchasing/Procurement, Assessing, and Water Utilities Departments.

Christopher Wilson ’85 was appointed Supervisory Curator and Chair of the Division of Home and Community Life at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

Brendan Dunleavy ‘11 and Dana Stopler were married on August 24, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Pittsfield, MA. Aidan Yee ‘11 served as Best Man, with Paul Bartkowiak ‘11 and Neil DeSouza ‘11 also in attendance.

Jackson Vyletel ‘19 married Grace Denomme at Saints Mary and Joseph chapel in Plymouth, MI on July 27, 2024. Cubs Maxim Denomme ‘17 and David Hale ‘19 were groomsmen. The couple now reside in Philadelphia

Mario Tabone ’00
his wife, Renell, welcomed future Cub Luca Mario on December 10, 2024.

Patrick Vecellio ’12 and his wife, Emma, welcomed Louis McDonald Vecellio to the world on January 25, 2025.

Danny Miller ‘22 and Liam Mahoney ’22 met up in Athens, Greece while studying abroad in Europe last fall. Danny, a University of Notre Dame student spent his time in Ireland, while Liam, a student at Boston College, did his study abroad in Greece.

Spencer LaBuda ‘17 married Savannah Wright on August 16, 2024, at the Henry Ford Museum. U of D Jesuit Alumni Included: Best Man, Colin LaBuda ’17, groomsman, Gabriele Seilo ’17, Noah Tylutki ’17, Grant Lehmkuhl ’17, Andrew Finelli ’17, Gunnar Wallgren ’17, TJ Thomas ’17, Ryan Moncrief ’17, Nicholas Pez ’17, Nick Arceci ’17, and Nolan Kirkman ’17, Karl Lehmkuhl ‘16, Niccoló Seilo ‘19, and Spencer’s Uncle Robert Caron ‘88.

Andrew Hayner ’04 and his wife, Clare Conway, welcomed James Thomson Hayner to the world on April 11, 2024. James is enjoying spending time with his big brother Bill and has already attended a few U of D Jesuit sporting events to cheer on the Cubs!

Patrick Gilmour ‘09 married Bree Moore on September 14, 2024, at Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak. Their wedding guests included Chris Kendall ‘09, Chris Thorton ‘09, James Johnson ‘08, Michael Gilmour ‘12, Eddie Maciorowski ‘11, and Sean Gilmour ‘06.

Nicholas Lesnau ’13 married his best friend, Emily (not pictured), on August 24, 2024, at the Saints Mary & Joseph Chapel in Plymouth, Michigan. His brother Jonathan ’11, was a groomsman, in the ceremony officiated by Fr. Karl Kiser, S.J. Several Cubs were in attendance including Joseph Wilson ‘16, Conrad Keurejian ‘13, Michael Wilson ‘09, David Wilson ‘11, and Brian Gardner ‘10.

Owen Carapellotti ’21 made Georgetown Hoyas baseball history, this season, by launching college career homer Nos. 49 and 50, breaking the school’s record. Owen, the Hoyas starting catcher, and son of U of D Jesuit faculty member, Mrs. Nancy Carapellotti, hit two homers, and drove in four RBIs, to break the record against Butler and to being named the Big East Player of the Week for his incredible performance.

Arrupe Society

Creating a Legacy at U of D Jesuit

PAYING IT FORWARD the Jesuit way

Michael Porter ’71 attended The High during a pivotal time for the City of Detroit. Just before beginning his freshman year, Michael participated in the summer enrichment program at U of D Jesuit, as the civil unrest of 1967 was sweeping through Detroit. Amid the city’s turmoil, school began as scheduled, and Porter entered a new world.

“That U of D Jesuit is about both superior academics and a supportive, uplifting, and enlightening culture, was very beneficial to me,” Michael said. “It brought together kids from all kinds of socioeconomic backgrounds. Students came from Downriver, the Grosse Pointes, the northern suburbs, and all over Detroit.”

Having grown up in a blue-collar family and neighborhood, for the first time Michael found himself in classes with boys whose fathers wore neck ties to work. He was exposed to peers whose families vacationed abroad and traveled “Up North”—a lifestyle he’d never imagined before.

Porter has a deep-rooted loyalty to his alma mater, which provided a supportive community of teachers and families that broadened his horizons and guided him toward personal and professional success. This loyalty is shared by his wife, Kim, who believes strongly in the mission of the school and the importance of accessible education for deserving students.

“My commitment to giving started shortly after I finished college, but it deepened when I joined the board of directors at U of D Jesuit,” said Michael. “This experience made Kim and I more aware of the critical

need for support, and I began contributing what I could. Over time, as our ability to give grew, so did our contributions.”

Michael and Kim’s decision to donate to U of D Jesuit is rooted in their shared belief—aligned with Jesuit values—that every young man who deserves to attend U of D Jesuit should have that opportunity. They are committed to the ideal that a Jesuit education remains accessible and affordable for all qualified students, regardless of their financial situation.

“The Jesuits have always been deeply involved in the community and have always emphasized caring for others,” said Michael. “The idea of the greater good has always been part of the culture, and that stuck with me. I try to live my life according to Ignatian values, with a focus on lifelong learning and openness to growth. I want to understand the world around me and be open to new ideas. Ultimately, I believe life’s journey is about paying it forward and making the world a better place than we found it.”

Michael and Kim encourage anyone considering philanthropy to seriously think about supporting U of D Jesuit. “Kim and I want U of D Jesuit to continue being the kind of place where young men receive the support and tools to develop both academically and as citizens. A gift to U of D Jesuit is a great investment. That has been true for nearly 150 years.” Visit https://uofdjesuit.myplannedgift. org/arrupe-society to donate.

Photo courtesy of Michael Porter '71 and wife, Kim Porter
Scan to donate

When one realizes that life, even in the middle of so many contradictions, is a gift, that love is the source and the meaning of life, how can they withhold the urge to do good to another fellow being?

IN REMEMBRANCE OF POPE FRANCIS

1936-2025

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Fr. Richard H. Twohig, S.J.

January 16, 1933 – October 21, 2024

Fr. Richard “Dick” Twohig, S.J., died at Colombiere Center after a life of service to the Church and Jesuit education. A Cleveland native, he graduated from St. Ignatius High School in 1951 and entered the Society of Jesus in 1954. He was ordained in 1965 and took final vows in 1971.

He earned degrees in literature, philosophy, physics, and theology. Early in his ministry, he taught at U of D Jesuit and later became principal of St. Ignatius. From 1980 to 1993, he served as the longest-tenured principal at U of D Jesuit, guiding the school through a period of academic strength and stability.

From 1994 to 1997, he was headmaster at Loyola High School in Tanzania. Back in Detroit, he became alumni chaplain and held leadership roles in the Detroit Province, including Provincial Assistant for International Missions, Secondary Education, and Health Care. He also served as rector of the U of D Jesuit community and director of Colombiere Center.

Fr. Twohig was known for his discipline, conviction, and care for others. He inspired trust and brought out the best in students, colleagues, and Jesuits alike.

Charles “Chuck” Gumbel ’64

September 7, 1946 – January 22, 2025

Chuck Gumbel ’64 served U of D Jesuit for nearly four decades as a mentor, leader, and friend. Known for high standards and deep belief in his students, he shaped generations with his “tough but fair” approach.

After teaching around metro Detroit, he returned to his alma mater in 1983. He became a beloved educator, Athletic Director, Dean of Students, and coach. In 1995, he revived Cub hockey after a 58-year break—an effort commemorated by the Chuck Gumbel ’64 Most Dedicated Player Award. He was inducted into the U of D Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015 and was the first recipient of the Tom Coyne ’62 Distinguished Service Award.

Chuck’s loyalty to U of D Jesuit ran deep. His family includes alumni across generations—his brother, sons, grandsons, nephews, great-nephews, and brother-in-law. His son Dave ’00 is the school’s Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and his niece Nancy Carapellotti is a current faculty member. Even after retiring in 2020, Chuck remained a cornerstone of the school community.

He was the beloved husband of Judy (née Morad) for 54 years. Loving father of the late Matthew ’91 (Colleen), Christina, and David ’00 (Maureen). Devoted grandfather of Brendan '18, Jacob '20, Ava, Ryan, Cara, and the late Gracelyn. In Chuck’s honor, an anonymous donor will match gifts to the Matthew A. Gumbel '91 Scholarship up to $25,000. Visit https://www.uofdjesuit.org/giving/matthew-gumbel-91-scholarship

William Lawrence Elster

January 26, 1955 – December 2, 2024

William Elster, 69, inspired students at U of D Jesuit through courses in world and U.S. history, government, and “Plagues and Epidemics in History.” He also chaired the history department and taught part-time at Wayne State for 16 years.

A committed advocate of Christian nonviolence, he founded Pacifist Christian Ministries, authored numerous works—including Eighteen: What it Means to Become a Christian Conscientious Objector—and was an ordained minister.

He is survived by his wife Jean; children Elizabeth and Isaac '07; a daughter-in-law; three brothers; a sister; and many dear friends and family.

SCAN TO DONATE

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Harvey Thibodeau ‘43 Passed away on December 16, 2024

George Sunday ‘46 Passed away on August 15, 2024

Elias (Les) Shaptini ‘48 Passed away on April 15, 2025

J. Edward Roney ‘48 Passed away on October 04, 2023

James Kopko ‘48 Passed away on March 13, 2023

John Roche ‘48 Passed away on October 08, 2024

Donald Fressie ‘50 Passed away on August 07, 2024

Rene Pare ‘48 Passed away on August 22, 2023

Thomas Mckay ‘48 Passed away on January 25, 2023

Donald Cooper ‘49 Passed away on December 17, 2023

Donald Jeakle ‘49 Passed away on February 16, 2024

Earl Thomas ‘50 Passed away on June 12, 2024

Robert Pelkey ‘50 Passed away on January 25, 2025

Harold Sweeney ‘51 Passed away on November 07, 2024

John Gatt ‘51 Passed away on October 09, 2023

IN

LOVING

John McGarrigle ‘51 Passed away on July 30, 2024

MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Patrick Longe ‘51 Passed away on March 29, 2025

Alvin Clair ‘52 Passed away on October 25, 2024

Bernard Mazurek ‘52 Passed away on January 23, 2025

David McLaughlin ‘52 Passed away on January 10, 2024

James Lacey ‘52 Passed away on March 21, 2025

John Krisan ‘52 Passed away on December 01, 2023

Michael Kearns ‘52 Passed away on October 15, 2024

Richard Shirley ‘52 Passed away on June 15, 2023

Robert Baker ‘52 Passed away on August 28, 2024

Thomas Crane ‘52 Passed away on February 10, 2023

Anthony Polisano ‘53 Passed away on October 09, 2024

Charles Molnar ‘53 Passed away on March 28, 2025

Francis Dilworth ‘53 Passed away on December 07, 2024

James Crimmins ‘53 Passed away on May 11, 2024

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Karl Zimmie ‘53 Passed away on April 05, 2025

Richard McClear ‘53 Passed away on March 30, 2025

Donald Hicke ‘54 Passed away on September 10, 2024

Donald Kovacs ‘54 Passed away on August 15, 2024

Francis Sutter ‘54 Passed away on December 18, 2024

James Humphriss ‘54 Passed away on January 25, 2025

John Corrigan ‘54 Passed away on April 24, 2025

Kenneth Johnson ‘54 Passed away on April 24, 2025

William Maloney ‘54 Passed away on March 28, 2025

Alan Jones ‘55 Passed away on May 18, 2024

Donald Merucci ‘55 Passed away on July 03, 2024

John Kroha ‘55 Passed away on September 19, 2024

John Wise ‘55 Passed away on November 20, 2024

Michael Corbett ‘55 Passed away on July 22, 2024

Duane Kujawa ‘56 Passed away on December 18, 2024

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Gordon Davidge ‘56 Passed away on August 09, 2024

James Gualdoni ‘56 Passed away on February 12, 2025

John Beaudoin ‘56 Passed away on February 12, 2025

John Long ‘56 Passed away on November 17, 2024

Kenneth Michon ‘56 Passed away on July 31, 2024

James Bari ‘57 Passed away on October 19, 2024

Leonard Glinski ‘57 Passed away on January 31, 2024

Thomas O’Connell ‘58 Passed away on September 06, 2024

David Barrows ‘59 Passed away on February 28, 2025

Douglas Brock ‘59 Passed away on September 24, 2024

Patrick Conway ‘59 Passed away on September 01, 2024

Philip Rogers ‘59 Passed away on December 24, 2024

Thomas Crowley ‘59 Passed away on April 21, 2025

James Bobel ‘60 Passed away on January 07, 2025

John Farrell ‘61 Passed away on October 05, 2024

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Michael Gage ‘61 Passed away on March 17, 2025

Robert Doerr ‘61 Passed away on October 12, 2024

Donald Beckley ‘62 Passed away on December 04, 2024

Donald Krot ‘62 Passed away on December 30, 2024

Matthew Plaza ‘62 Passed away on April 19, 2025

Philip Grashoff ‘62 Passed away on April 12, 2025

Thomas Patrick ‘62 Passed away on September 24, 2023

Wiiliam Ort ‘62 Passed away on July 27, 2024

H. Richard Stimson ‘63 Passed away on December 02, 2024

William Rodgers ‘63 Passed away on September 20, 2024

Brian Jeffreys ‘64 Passed away on December 08, 2024

Charles Gumbel ‘64 Passed away on January 22, 2025

Donald Brezinski ‘64 Passed away on December 19, 2024

Frank Ploskonka ‘64 Passed away on November 12, 2024

Thomas Kavanagh,‘64 Passed away on January 20, 2025

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Lawrence Moloney ‘65 Passed away on January 03, 2025

Michael Murray ‘65 Passed away on August 20, 2024

Edward Petersmarck ‘66 Passed away on September 01, 2024

Robert Gendjar ‘66 Passed away on August 29, 2024

Timothy McGee ‘66 Passed away on January 18, 2025

Kenneth Brehmer ‘67 Passed away on December 11, 2024

Richard Duffield ‘67 Passed away on November 17, 2024

Dennis Mucci ‘68 Passed away on March 30, 2025

John Cieszkowski ‘68 Passed away on February 03, 2025

Henry Hus ‘70 Passed away on September 28, 2024

Michael Sabourin ‘70 Passed away on October 30, 2024

Michael Timmreck ‘70 Passed away on September 15, 2024

Frederick Gross ‘71 Passed away on December 22, 2024

Robert Forgiel ‘76 Passed away on July 28, 2024

Craig Johnson ‘78 Passed away on October 31, 2024

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI

Leonard Corbin ‘78 Passed away on January 20, 2025

James Krebs ‘82 Passed away on September 30, 2024

Jeremy Murray ‘99 Passed away on January 03, 2025

Brian Downes ‘00 Passed away on March 26, 2025

Micalyn Bradshaw ‘23 Passed away on September 29, 2024

Celebrating 100 years of Cub Golf

The Cub Newspaper April 24, 1925

Congratulations to the U of D Jesuit Class of 2025

Our graduates were awarded over $13.5 million in scholarships from colleges and universities around the country. Our new alumni will be heading to schools across Michigan, HBCUs, Ivy League institutions, Jesuit and Catholic schools, a service academy, and public and private universities around the country.

Thanks to our benefactors who play an important role in making their dreams a reality.

2025 Attending Colleges and Universities

Alabama A & M University

Albion College

Alma College

Amherst College

Arizona State University

Ball State University

Boston College

Bowling Green State University

Butler University

Creighton University

Cuesta College

Denison University

Eastern Michigan University

Grand Valley State University

Hampton University

Holy Cross College

Hope College

Howard University

Jackson College

Jacksonville University

John Carroll University

Kalamazoo College

Kenyon College

Kettering University

Lake Superior State

Loyola University Chicago

Marquette University

Miami University-Oxford

Michigan State University

Michigan Technological University

Morehouse College

North Carolina A & T State University

Oakland University

Pennsylvania State University

Saginaw Valley State University

Saint Louis University

Savannah College of Art and Design

Syracuse University

U.S. Military Academy

Preparatory School-West Point

University of Dayton

University of Detroit Mercy

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Notre Dame

University of Pennsylvania

University of Toledo

University of Vermont

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Villanova University

Wayne State University

Western Michigan University

Xavier University of Louisiana

Letter from the

Dear Cub Community,

A school year flies by. When the Cubs filed into the Commons in August of 2024, we let them know that we had high expectations for them this year. Ten months later they proved they could rise to the challenge in so many ways.

Our faculty and staff remind our students that as Cubs, their number one priority is to be Men for Others in the model of the man for others, Jesus Christ. Many Cubs took up this challenge with vigor; our students journeyed to Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, West Virginia, and Cincinnati this year to perform service for others.

Closer to home, our seniors spent their senior service days at hospitals, soup kitchens, schools, and hospice centers across metro-Detroit. It is a high point in my day whenever I meet people from our service sites who compliment our students for their dedication to service and the warmth they bring to the people they encounter on their service days. At the other end of the spectrum, our Academy students dedicated their days of service to urban farms in Detroit where they not only provided valuable labor but also learned about sustainability and urban renewal.

You are all familiar that we are striving for “excellence in all things” as part of our Jesuit identity. Similarly, our students demonstrated the achievement of excellence this year. Our Robocubs competed in Houston at the FIRST® Robotics World Championships in April where they earned the distinction of being the highest ranked team from a Catholic school in Michigan and were ranked as the 51st best team in the nation. Five of our seniors were recognized as National Merit Semifinalist or Commended Scholars and seven members of the Class of 2026 will also have this distinction.

Principal

Particularly, I am proud of our three valedictorians who are planning to attend University of Notre Dame, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and Amherst College; all highly distinguished but very different schools from each other. When we look at where our students are headed after their time at The High it is a reminder that while they are unified as a class they also represent a wide variety of interests and passions they plan to pursue as they head into adulthood.

In athletics, the Cubs made great strides this year. Our swim and dive team won its first state championship, re-writing state and league record books in the process. This was the first time in 95 years that a school from the city of Detroit had captured a state title in swimming. I greatly appreciated the fact that this was a multi-year hunt for this title by our swimmers who had been among the top finishers for the past five years; there is a lesson there that success and achievement don’t happen overnight, but rather because of long-term consistent dedication. I know this is a lesson the Cubs will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Furthermore, 19 members of the Class of 2025 have committed to collegiate athletic programs, we can’t wait to watch these Cubs compete at the collegiate level.

On a personal note, this is the first class at The High I have been with since their freshman year. I am proud of the men they are becoming, and I look forward to watching how they go forth and set the world on fire. Our school is grateful for the generous support of the many benefactors who make many of the successes listed above possible for our students.

Sincerely,

8400 South Cambridge

Detroit, Michigan 48221

Forming Men for Others since 1877

Help Us Celebrate 150 Years of U of D Jesuit –Share Your Photos!

As we prepare to celebrate the 150th anniversary of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy in 2027, we're creating a special keepsake book filled with photographs that highlight the rich legacy and lasting impact of our school community.

This photo book — to be published by Arcadia Publishing as part of its well-known Images of America series — will feature more than 200 images from throughout U of D Jesuit's history. We’re drawing from school archives, newspaper collections, and public records, but we especially want your contributions.

Do you have photos from your time at U of D Jesuit — or from a parent’s or grandparent’s time here? Maybe snapshots from class reunions or gatherings with Cub classmates in recent years? We'd love to include them. Our goal is to publish the book in Spring 2026, and your photos can help tell the story of 150 years of brotherhood, excellence, and service.

Please send scanned photos, along with any questions or suggestions, to thomas.o’keefe@uofdjesuit.org.

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