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UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT JESUIT

SPRING 2026

FORMED HERE. CALLED BACK. Introducing, Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J. ’06 31st President, U of D Jesuit

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Dear U of D Jesuit Family,

Br. Jim Boynton, S.J. • President

Letter from the

When Fr. John Baptiste Miege, S.J. was planning the opening of a Jesuit school in Detroit he could only have imagined that 150 years later the school would be planning its sesquicentennial. From humble beginnings the school has seen pandemics, World Wars, riots, and great financial fluctuations. It has also seen the coming of the automobile, great strides in medicine, science, and literature.

Through it all we have educated young men in the Jesuit tradition that came to be known as forming Men for Others. Those 150 years flew by faster than Fr. Miege could have ever understood.

Every year new classes pass through our doors…one class coming in and another class going out. To those who come in it often seems like the start of a daunting 4, 5, or 6 years. To those who leave they wonder where the time went.

Fast forward to what seems like a few years, and the members of that class are back for a 25- or 50-year reunion. What happened here was incredibly special and marked the rest of their lives. The friendships with other students, the relationships with teachers, and the successes and struggles experienced all make U of D Jesuit a hallowed place.

President Thirty years ago, I started as a young teacher here and had no idea of what would lie ahead. The students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni I encountered while teaching history or Theology, working in Campus Ministry or Advancement, or serving as Principal or President, have made a profound and lasting impact on me. I am so grateful and can only wonder where the time went. Schools are like rivers in that to stay healthy, they keep flowing. Those who came before or after are important, but the main mission is to those students of today. I am so thankful to Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J. ’06, who will lead the school into its sesquicentennial and beyond.

To Fr. Dixon, students, faculty and staff, and the entire Cub community…Thank you for all you do. The greatest prayer I was ever taught was, “Thank you God for right here and right now.” Today this prayer is about you.

Your Brother,

Br. Jim Boynton, S.J. President

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Alumni of the Year Cover Story Maroon and White Gala Around Campus & Beyond CUBnected The Legacy of Tom Coyne '62 Athletic Highlights Cub Chronicles Arrupe Society In Memoriam Alumni Calendar of Events Principal's letter

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Contents

2025-2026 Board of Directors 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

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

Jesuit 101

Q: How many Jesuit parishes are in the Detroit metro area?

A: There are two Jesuit parishes in the Detroit metro area: Gesu Catholic Church (Detroit) and Ss. Peter and Paul Jesuit Church (downtown Detroit).

EDITOR

Sandra van Meek P '29

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

Alumni Faculty & Staff Ian Campbell '21 Matthew Comment ’14 Alexander Davidson ’06 Garrett Donato ’05 Henry Ghawi '21 David Gumbel ’00 Ezra Houghtby ’19 Pat Howe’71 Thomas Huber ’93 Sean Johnson ’89

Highlights Staff

Emerson Krick ’23 Brendan Lopus ’14 Jim Moceri, Jr. ‘76 Scott Nelson ’17 Tom O’Keefe ’64 Blair Ramsey ’09 Jeffrey Rizik ’10 Frank Ruokolainen ’21 Chris Spilker '93 Dan Spilker ’93

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sandra van Meek P '29 Br. James Boynton, S.J. Christopher Smith, Ph.D.

RESEARCH

PHOTOGRAPH CONTRIBUTORS Laura McCaffery Tania Macioce P '23, '25 Sandra van Meek P '29

LAYOUT & DESIGN Tania Macioce P '23, '25

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Dave Gumbel '00 Thomas O’Keefe ’64 Jim Moceri ’76 Jenny Miller P '20, '22

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

2026

ALUMNI OF THE YEAR Dr. Felix Valbuena Jr. ’85 & Ned Blackhawk, Ph.D. ’89 Each year, U of D Jesuit honors alumni whose lives reflect the school’s highest ideals through the Alumni of the Year award.

Presented to graduates who set and achieve exemplary standards both personally and professionally, the award recognizes those whose loyalty to the school, distinguished achievement in their field, and commitment to serving others embody the mission of forming Men for Others. These alumni lead with integrity, uphold the highest moral and ethical standards, and serve as enduring role models for current students and the broader U of D Jesuit community. Congratulations to Dr. Felix Valbuena Jr. '85 and Ned Blackhawk '89 who were honored during the Alumni Senior Luncheon in April.

Dr. Felix Valbuena Jr. ’85 For Dr. Felix Valbuena Jr. ’85, medicine has always been about more than treating illness. It is about expanding access, building trust, and meeting people where they are.

A Detroit-based family physician, educator, and health care executive, Dr. Valbuena serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Community Health and Social Services (CHASS) Center and as 4

faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at Henry Ford Hospital. Throughout his career, he has remained focused on delivering high-quality primary care to underserved communities, with a particular emphasis on culturally and linguistically responsive care.

“This recognition [Alumni of the Year] is an honor,” said Valbuena.

“My accomplishments are rooted in the foundation I received at home and at U of D Jesuit, especially the call to serve others.

I share this recognition with the mentors, classmates, and community that helped shape my path.”

A national leader in community-based health care, Dr. Valbuena is Chair-Elect of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), a board member of the Michigan Primary Care Association, and a member of the Board of Trustees of A.T. Still University. In these roles, he helps shape the education and training of future physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, dentists, and other health professionals committed to serving communities in need. He is also a strong advocate for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) as a model for advancing health equity and developing leaders in primary care.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Valbuena led efforts to expand testing and vaccination in Southwest Detroit, supporting frontline workers while strengthening trust between health systems and the communities they serve.

Dr. Valbuena lives in Detroit with his wife, Claudia Bello-Valbuena. They have two adult children, Nick ’19 and Sofia.

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Under his leadership, CHASS Center, located in Southwest Detroit, serves more than 12,000 patients annually. The organization partners with the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University to advance community-based participatory research, train the next generation of FQHC professionals, and expand access to care. CHASS also serves as the medical and dental provider for the Pope Francis Center Bridge Housing Campus.

My accomplishments are rooted in the foundation I received at home and at U of D Jesuit, especially the call to serve others. I share this recognition with the mentors, classmates, and community that helped shape my path.

Ned Blackhawk, Ph.D. ’89

- Dr. Felix Valbuena Jr., ’85

For Ned Blackhawk, Ph.D. ’89, history is not simply about the past, it is about shaping how a nation understands itself in the present.

A leading scholar of Native American and U.S. history, Blackhawk serves on the faculty at Yale University, where he teaches courses on American Indian law and policy and guides students in writing tribal histories. His work challenges long-standing narratives, placing Indigenous peoples at the center of the American story and inviting a more complete understanding of the country’s past.

That commitment has earned national recognition. Blackhawk was recently elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and is the author and co-editor of numerous works in Indigenous Studies. His 2023 book, The Rediscovery of America: Native Peoples and the Unmaking of U.S. History, received the National Book Award for Nonfiction. A national bestseller, it has been translated into multiple languages and will soon be adapted for young adult readers.

For Blackhawk, the foundation for that work was laid much earlier.

“It’s quite wonderful and unexpected to be selected for such an honor from the U of D community,” he said. “Many deep and formative experiences occurred for me throughout my time there in the 1980s. I teach college students many of the grammar and research methods that I first encountered at U of D (Jesuit), especially around writing clarity and sentence structure. I’m thrilled to be returning to see this year’s senior class as well as alumni from my own year.”

Before joining Yale, Blackhawk taught at the University of Wisconsin–Madison following graduate studies at UCLA and the University of Washington. He is a graduate of McGill University and an enrolled member of the Te-Moak Tribe of the Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada.

His story, however, begins in Detroit. Raised in the Rosedale Park neighborhood, he spent early mornings delivering the Detroit Free Press, an experience that grounded his perspective and work ethic long before his career took him to lecture halls and national stages.

Though their paths differ, one in medicine and community health, the other in scholarship and historical understanding, Dr. Valbuena and Ned Blackhawk share a common thread: a commitment to serving others and reshaping systems for the better. Each reflects the mission of U of D Jesuit, using one’s gifts not only for personal success, but for the greater good.

Ned lives in New Haven, CT, with his wife Maggie and three children.

Many deep and formative experiences occurred for me throughout my time there in the 1980s. I teach college students many of the grammar and research methods that I first encountered at U of D. - Ned Blackhawk, Ph.D. '89

The distinguished Alumnus of the Year award began in 1966. If you would like to nominate an alumnus to receive this award in 2027, visit the Alumni page our website www.uofdjesuit.org/alumni.

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But what makes this place special is that you leave understanding your life is about more than just you.

That answer came the moment he stepped on campus at U of D Jesuit as a prospective student.

“I immediately felt there was something special,” he said. “You hear people say that, and it’s true. You feel it when you’re here.”

At the time, he couldn’t have known how formative those four years would become. But looking back, two experiences stand out, each revealing something essential about what makes U of D Jesuit different.

The first came in a classroom.

He had always been a strong student, accustomed to success. Then came Honors English II, and a teacher who would change that.

A Place That Forms the Heart Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J.’06, 31st President, U of D Jesuit As the new president of U of D Jesuit, Fr. Dan Dixon, S.J. ’06 returns home with a vision rooted in faith, brotherhood, and possibility.

During a winter outing at the USA Ice Arena in Plymouth, before his presidency had officially begun, Fr. Dixon found himself standing in the Cub student section at a state semifinal hockey game. The energy was loud, joyful, and familiar. Then something unexpected happened.

The students turned to him and asked, simply, if he would lead them in the Prayer for Generosity, the daily prayer that anchors life on campus.

For a moment, he paused, not out of hesitation, but out of recognition.

This was not staged. It wasn’t planned. It was instinctive. And in that moment, something essential about U of D Jesuit revealed itself again: faith here isn’t confined to classrooms or chapels. It lives in the spaces in between, the hallways, the sidelines, the relationships.

“We prayed right there,” Fr. Dixon recalled. “And I thought, this says something about who these young men are.”

It also says something about the man who will soon lead them.

For Fr. Dixon, this moment wasn’t just meaningful. It was confirming.

Because long before he was called to lead the school, he was formed by it.

A Formation That Lasts a Lifetime “Catholic education is deep in my blood,” Fr. Dixon said.

It began at home. His mother, Sharon, served as principal of Shrine Catholic Grade School. His late father, Mike, a proud alumnus of the Class of 1970, passed on a deep love for U of D Jesuit, a love already shared by his older brothers, Michael ’02 and Tom ’04, who followed the same path.

Still, the decision to attend wasn’t automatic.

“There was a choice,” Fr. Dixon said. “My parents didn’t force it on me.”

Like most of his fellow eighth graders at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, his priorities were simpler: Where are my friends going? Where can I play sports? What feels right?

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After turning in what he assumed was a good enough essay, he received it back marked with an unfamiliar symbol and a note: Please see me after class. What followed wasn’t just correction, it was transformation.

Under the guidance of Mrs. Nancy Carapellotti, Fr. Dixon learned quickly that effort and intention mattered as much as ability.

“She taught me how to write,” Fr. Dixon said. “But more than that, she taught me to take pride in my work.”

It was the first time he encountered the kind of expectation that defines a Jesuit education: not just performing, but doing things well, with purpose and discipline.

The second experience came not from academics, but from witness.

In his senior-year biochemistry class, Fr. Dixon watched his teacher, the late Tom Coyne ’62, care for his sister, Sharon, who had significant disabilities.

She joined the class often smiling, laughing, fully included.

What struck Fr. Dixon wasn’t just the care. It was the joy.

“He made sure she belonged,” he said. “And that taught us what it really means to be a Man for Others.”

Coyne’s life, as many in the U of D Jesuit community know, was one of deep and faithful service, both in the classroom and at home. For Fr. Dixon and his classmates, that witness left a life-long imprint.

“Academic excellence matters,” Fr. Dixon said. “But what makes this place special is that you leave understanding your life is about more than just you.”

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

A Calling That Took Shape Over Time “I didn’t come here [U of D Jesuit] thinking I’d be a Jesuit,” said Fr. Dixon.

What U of D Jesuit gave him instead was something more foundational: an openness to faith as something lived, not simply checked off.

At the time, the priesthood was not part of the plan. After graduating in 2006, Fr. Dixon enrolled at the University of Notre Dame, where, like many college students, he searched for direction.

Then came a moment that, at the time, may have seemed ordinary.

Through a chance invitation, Fr. Dixon and a group of friends found themselves sharing pizza with priests on campus. It was one of those small, unplanned encounters that would later take on greater meaning.

That openness began to deepen through a relationship with a mentor, Fr. Brian Daley, S.J., who posed a simple but pointed question.

“I was wondering what to do post-college, and I didn’t have any ideas,” Fr. Dixon said. “I changed my major like five times, and my friends made fun of me for that.”

Then Fr. Daley asked him something unexpected: ‘Do you ever daydream about anything?’

The question lingered but gave Fr. Dixon the clarity he sought.

“Actually, yes!” Fr. Dixon said. “Last week, I had this idea, this image of teaching young people. Not necessarily in a classroom, but something about it felt right.”

That moment of clarity became a turning point.

The intuition stayed with him, growing stronger over time, especially when he later taught at a Catholic school in Phoenix, where he encountered both the joy of education and the depth of community life.

“That’s when it really clicked,” he said. “I thought, maybe God is calling me to this.”

The path to the Jesuits followed, not as a certainty, but as a willingness to try.

Leading as a Pastor, Not Just a President Today, as he prepares to return to U of D Jesuit in a new role, Fr. Dixon doesn’t see himself primarily as an administrator.

“I see myself first and foremost as a pastor, a spiritual leader, of this community,” Fr. Dixon said.

It’s a distinction that shapes everything. Something he has fine-tuned in his role at St. Mary’s Student Parish at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he has served the college students and resident parishioners helping them grow in their faith the last three years.

For Fr. Dixon, leadership begins with presence: greeting students in the morning, stopping at lunch tables, showing up at games, listening without agenda.

“I’m a relationship builder,” he said. “That’s what I love about Jesuit education.”

That approach is rooted in a central Jesuit belief: finding God in all things.

“God is in the classroom,” Fr. Dixon said. “But He’s also in the lunchroom, on the field, on the stage. He’s in our lives.”

That perspective carries a responsibility, not to have all the answers, but to be present in meaningful ways.

“People aren’t expecting perfection,” he said. “But they do value a good listener. If they trust you, that’s a privilege.”

It’s also where the Jesuit principle of cura personalis, care for the whole person, becomes real.

Sometimes, that care looks like guidance. Other times, it’s as simple as noticing someone who needs to be seen.

“You don’t always know what someone is going through,” Fr. Dixon said.

“A small moment, just saying hello, can matter more than you realize.”

A Brotherhood That Endures Years after graduating, Fr. Dixon experienced the power of the Cub community in a new way.

While teaching summer school at U of D Jesuit, he invited a handful of classmates back on campus for an informal evening at the Jesuit residence.

For many of them, it was their first time returning in over a decade.

What followed was something deeper than nostalgia.

“We told stories, we laughed,” Fr. Dixon said. “And we realized how much this place shaped us.”

One of his friends put it simply: ‘This is one of the most fun nights I’ve had in a long time.’ That sense of connection, of belonging that doesn’t fade, is something he hopes more alumni will rediscover.

“This place is home,” Fr. Dixon said. “And it always will be.”

His invitation to all U of D Jesuit alumni is simple: come back. Bring your family. Walk the halls again. Because when they do, he believes alumni will recognize something important.

“The world has changed,” he said. “But if you meet our students, you’ll see yourself in them.”

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God Will Take You Where You Need to Be.

The Role of Alumni: Living out Our Mission For Fr. Dixon, alumni are not just supporters of the school, they are essential to its mission.

“Yes, fundraising certainly matters,” Fr. Dixon said. “For most of our students, including my brothers and me, a U of D Jesuit education would not possible without our benefactors. But being an alum and a supporter of our mission is about so much more than that.”

When alumni return to the High, whether for a game, a Mass, or a career day, they help current students imagine their own futures.

“They start to see what’s possible,” he said. “They think, maybe I could do that.”

That connection benefits everyone.

“It’s also a gift to the alum,” he added. “Being a Man for Others doesn’t end when you graduate.”

Holding Fast to Mission, Embracing the Future As he looks ahead, Fr. Dixon’s priorities are clear. “What must be preserved at all costs is our mission,” he said. “Academic excellence. Men for Others. Following Jesus. Those don’t change.”

What must evolve, however, is applying that mission to prepare students for the world they are entering. And that world is changing rapidly with artificial intelligence (AI).“Our students are already using it,” Fr. Dixon said. “We can’t ignore that.”

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Instead, he sees an opportunity: to teach not just how to use technology, but how to think about it.

“When is AI helpful? When is it not? What are the things only a human being should do? Many alums tell me proudly, ‘Father, U of D taught me how to think.’ I want our current and future students to say the same, and part of that means understanding what AI should do for us, and what it shouldn’t.”

For Fr. Dixon, the goal is not to compete with technology, but to deepen what makes students distinctly human.

“Service reminds us of that,” he said. “A conversation, a smile, a moment of connection, those things can’t be replaced.”

A Bold Hope for the Future Ask Fr. Dixon about his boldest hope, and his answer is both ambitious and deeply personal.

“I want the entire Metro Detroit community to see U of D Jesuit as the place to send their son,” he said.

Not just for its academics or reputation, but for its ability to bring together young men from across the region.

“There’s nowhere else like it,” Fr. Dixon said. “Students from different backgrounds, different neighborhoods, they become brothers.”

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That diversity, he believes, is not just valuable. It’s essential.

“It enriched my education,” he said. “And it shaped who I am, as a person and as a Catholic. Catholic means ‘universal,’ and there is no better education that learning alongside others who challenge and enrich your thinking, who help you to realize that the world God made is incredibly large, complex, and beautiful.”

Looking ahead, he sees momentum already building, through milestone celebrations, academic innovation, and expanded opportunities.

His hope is that more families will begin to see what generations of alumni already know: this is a place where boys become something more.

A Humble Beginning For all the vision he brings, Fr. Dixon returns with a clear sense of humility.

“I never thought this would be possible,” he said, “to lead an institution that means so much to my family and me.”

The opportunity to lead U of D Jesuit, the school that shaped him, his brothers, and his father, is not something he planned. It’s a gift he received.

“That’s what’s humbling,” Fr. Dixon said. “It’s not about me. It’s about the mission.”

He often thinks of his father, whom he calls his hero.

“He lived what it meant to be a Man for Others,” he said. “By caring for our family, by uplifting others, by glorifying God by the way he lived his life.

When I walk the halls, I think of the opportunity to help form men who can make the world a better place like he did.”

The Reason for Hope In the end, when asked what gives him the greatest sense of hope, Fr. Dixon’s answer comes quickly.

“The boys,” he said.

He recalls a conversation with a group of students during the interview process, young men from different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

“They didn’t all know each other,” he said. “But you could see the brotherhood.”

Global Education Experiences

Before his recent passing in 2024, his father offered Fr. Dixon simple advice: trust the timing.

Now, as Fr. Dixon steps into this role, that advice carries new meaning.

“I feel like the timing is right for me to step into this role” he said. “Not because I have all the answers, but because the Jesuits trained me for this, and because I know from personal experience the value of a U of D Jesuit education. There are so many people who love this place. I see my role as bringing all members of the Cub community together, each with their own God-given gifts, to help create a hope-filled future.

That, more than anything, excites him about this mission.

In their curiosity, their honesty, and their desire to make a difference, he sees the future, not just of the school, but of the Church and the world.

“They inspire me,” Fr. Dixon said.

And that may be the clearest sign of what kind of leader he will be.

Not one who stands apart, but one who walks alongside, listening, guiding, and learning.

Because at U of D Jesuit, formation is never a one-way street.

“The boys have a lot to teach us,” he said.

And in that shared journey, rooted in faith, shaped by community, and driven by purpose, Fr. Dan Dixon is ready to begin at U of D Jesuit… again.

It’s not about me. It’s about the mission.

Standing in the Rooms of St. Ignatius in Rome, Fr. Dixon came across St. Ignatius’ simple slippers just before entering the Jesuits. It’s incredibly moving to reflect on the profound impact of a man of such humble stature, who walked in such unassuming shoes.

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The Maroon & White Gala made a triumphant return home to U of D Jesuit this year, bringing our community back under one roof for an unforgettable evening of celebration, brotherhood, and generosity. Surrounded by the spirit and tradition of The High, guests experienced a night filled with connection and purpose—all in support of our shared mission. Thanks to the incredible support of our sponsors, donors, attendees, and volunteers, the 2025 Gala was a tremendous success, raising over $620,000 for U of D Jesuit.

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Gala

MAROON & WHITE

U OF D JESUIT AUCTION

SAVE THE DATE NOVEMBER 7, 2026

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Around Campus & Beyond

(left to right) Leo Smith '27, Bryce Purdy '26, Jon Jorissen '98 (keynote speaker), Charlie Weikel '26, Ollie Binkowski '26, Joey Samples '26

Cub Lawyers Dinner

In January, alumni and members of our Mock Trial team attended the annual Cub Lawyers Dinner, including senior Bryce Purty ’26, who addressed the audience and shared how Mock Trial has helped him grow in confidence, sharpened his voice, and inspired his dream of becoming a lawyer. We were also honored to welcome keynote speaker Jonathan Jorissen ’98, the sixth in his family to graduate from U of D Jesuit, following his father Jeff ’63, uncles Jim ’46 and Gerry ’49, cousins Michael ’78 and Paul ’80, and nephew Nick Said ’20, a powerful reminder of the lifelong bonds formed at U of D Jesuit.

Currently, Jon has two sons attending The High, Isaac ’27 and Becket ’29. Thank you to our alumni and legal community for continuing to support our students and their futures.

Mock Trial

The Mock Trial Team, led by Kathleen Curran, capped off an outstanding season at the Regional Tournament, the result of months of disciplined preparation and steady growth. Since October, team members sharpened their courtroom skills, deepened their legal reasoning, and grew in confidence as advocates. Facing a competitive field, the team secured two round victories and narrowly missed advancing to the next stage by just a few points in the final round. Judges commended the students for their legal acumen, professionalism, and the depth and authenticity they brought to their witness portrayals, hallmarks of a program on the rise.

Inscape wins again

U of D Jesuit’s student literary-art magazine earned 1st Place Journal in the Magazine of the Arts category from the Faire National Yearbook Review, placing it among only four schools nationwide to receive this honor. With over 100 pages of original writing and art from Cubs in grades 7–12, Inscape captures the heart, creativity, and global perspective of our student community. Congratulations to our talented 2025 senior editors (Demetri Borrego ’25, Thomas Jamil ’25, Pierre Jazrawi ’25, Matthew Kelley ’25, Dwight Pryor ’25, Nicolas Vecchio ’25), contributors, and moderator Alexander Davidson ’06!

Arrupe Leaders' Summit Our students attended the Arrupe Leaders’ Summit, lead by Carole Hosey and Hannah Coley, at the Jesuit Retreat Center in Parma, Ohio, joining peers from across the Midwest Jesuit Schools Network. Inspired by the legacy of Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., students explored the connection between faith, justice, service, and leadership while building friendships with fellow Jesuit students. Representing U of D Jesuit were Daniel Stella ’28, Jack Jolokai ’27, Vincent Brewer ’27, and Colin Fineran ’27.

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State of the State

U of D Jesuit Senate's Sergeant at Arms, Xavier Evoy '26, was an honored guest of Speaker Pro Tempore Rachelle Smit at Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s final State of the State address in March. Xavier, a Governor of Michigan Boys State, for Boys Nation, met several state leaders, including State Senator Mallory McMorrow, State Representative Helena Scott, Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie '05 (pictured), the Honorable Judge Michael Riordan (parent of Jeremiah '18), and Mayor Mary Sheffield.

National Scholastic Art Award

Robocubs Our U of D Jesuit Robocubs delivered an incredible performance at the World Championship in Houston, putting together one of the most successful runs in program history. The team finished 10th out of 74 teams in qualification for their division, their highest ranking ever at Worlds, while posting an impressive 8–2 record in qualification matches. They made history by captaining an alliance for the first time and put up a season-best 773 points in a single match, all while advancing to the playoffs among some of the best teams in the world.

Daniel Stella '28 was named a National Gold Medal winner in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, earning two Gold Medals for his photography. More than 110,000 students submitted over 335,000 works to this year’s competition, and Daniel’s work stood out for its originality, skill, and powerful personal vision.

Daniel was honored at Carnegie Hall during National Awards Week.

Daniel Stella '28 (left to right) Taha Joumaa, Shahzad Arshad, Simon Joyce Whipp, Nicholas Plunkett, Connor London, Kaito Lovin, Shiraz Arshad

International Scholars Student Senate president. Joseph Davis V '26, along with Isaiah Millimono '26 will be studying abroad at the University of Oxford in England and Sorbonne Université in Paris (respectively). Fun fact: Sorbonne is the alma mater of St. Ignatius.

National Merit Scholars Named Congratulations to U of D Jesuit seniors Shahzad Arshad ’26, Shiraz Arshad ’26, and Taha Joumaa ’26, named National Merit Finalists in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program.

Out of more than 1.3 million students nationwide, fewer than 2,500 earned this distinction, placing them among the very top high school seniors in the country.

Additionally, Simon Joyce Whipp ’26, Connor London ’26, Kaito Lovin ’26, and Nicholas Plunkett ’26 were named National Merit Commended Scholars, scoring among the top 50,000 students nationwide. (left to right) Joseph Davis V, Isaiah Millimono.

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Strengthening Alumni-Student CUBnected Connections

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.

Pat Desmond '06

Frank Blackman ’21 and Michael Hannosh ’21, founders of the beNiceUDJ chapter, and the mental health app Mindful Peer, spoke on campus at the suicide prevention assembly. Through powerful personal stories, they encouraged students to seek support and to care for one another.

Chris Kendall ’09 shared his musical expertise with the Varsity Singers during a dynamic and engaging vocal workshop.

Mrs. Cathy Coccia’s Business Finance and Sports & Entertainment classes continue to connect students with alumni and industry professionals, offering real-world insights on investments, IRAs, 401(k)s, the stock market, and careers in sports business.

Frank Blackman ’21 and Michael Hannosh ’21

We extend our gratitude to the many guest speakers who enriched our students’ learning experiences: Andrew Tyus ’09, Pat Desmond '06, Alison Krum (Desmond family, 6+ alumni family members), Megan Curoe P ’21, ’24, Anne Marie Vecchio P ’22, ’25, Ari Papadakos P ’23, Denise Vecellio P ’06, ’12, Ted McDermott ’86, Charlie Young ’20, Joe Mutone '16, Glenn Young P’20, John Wolski ’93, Noah Tylutki ’17, Kris Mathis ’15, Jen Gray P ’29, and Matt Dery (former UDJ teacher).

A special thank-you to Cub supporter Mike Hayden, who leads an eight-week Financial Literacy program. His generosity includes donating $3,000 to charities selected by students and providing each participant with a stock certificate for hands-on investment learning.

Ted McDermott '86

Megan Curoe P ’22, P '24

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

For over 12 years, Oakland Country Magistrate, Dave Bilson ’92, has been a steady presence in the Mock Trial program, dedicating countless hours to mentoring and preparing students for competition and beyond.

Alumni mentorship played a key role in the Robotics Team’s journey to the World Championships this past season. We thank Marc Pulte '09, Quincy DeKlerk '23, Peter Guenther '92, Justin Lesinski '19, Tarek Joumaa '23, Francis Stephan '24, Liam Dowling '24, Daniel Burke '24, and Graham Rebain '25.

Robotics team

Southfield Fire Department Battalion Chief Tim Miller ’95 presented to Ms. Kathleen Curran’s Academy classes to share how his experience at U of D Jesuit, and the events of September 11, 2001, inspired his decision to pursue a career in firefighting.

Jonathan Jorissen ’98 served as the keynote speaker at the annual Cub Lawyers Dinner in January. Speaking to members of the Mock Trial team and more than 40 alumni in the legal profession, he reflected on how Mock Trial helped him build confidence, find his voice, and pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer.

Tim Miller ’95

Jonathan Jorissen ’98

John Blase III ’25 returned to campus during his spring break from Michigan State University to serve with the weekly Labre Ministry and reconnect with underclassmen he first met through the program.

John Blase III ’25 (sixth from right, top row)

CAREER DAY Gary Abud Jr.

In March, the halls of U of D Jesuit were filled with energy and inspiration during CUBnected Career Day, which kicked off with remarks from keynote speaker Educational Consultant Gary Abud Jr., followed by breakout sessions featuring alumni, parents, and friends sharing their career insights. We are grateful to those who generously shared their time and experiences with our students.

Hearing about your journeys, and how U of D Jesuit helped shape many of them, left a lasting impression and inspired our students to reflect on their own paths with purpose.

We extend a heartfelt thank-you to the alumni who participated, including: Tom LaRouere ’10, Michael Hannosh ’21, David Stechow ’21, Jonathan Vandenbossche ’98, Markeith Weldon '87, Tim Dinan '83, Justin Vandeputte ’01, Stu Daly ’92, Jason Jones ’95, Christian Armstrong ’21, Marlon Brown ’02, Craig Baumgartner ’98, Jeremy Otto ’13, Kyle Kirkland ’12, Joe Malek ’01, Bill Moylan ’70, Brian Mooney ’98, Chris Merlo ’72, Tom Willis ’95, Steven Ostrowski ’14, John Padalis ’09, Rick Joseph ’86, Seth Atisha ’17, Scott Nelson ’17, Mark Jones ’14, and Tim Lenhard ’85.

Tim Dinan '83

Stu Daly '92

Bill Moylan '70

David Stechow '21

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

CUBnected Alumni and Friends Events Take a look back as we hit the road across the U.S.—reconnecting with alumni in cities near and far, sharing stories, and reliving the moments that made their time at The High unforgettable.

Renee Janovsky (parent Charlie '22), Betty Kramar, Gloria & Larry Kramer, Betsy Andreu (parent to Stevie '20, Frankie '17)

Tim Miller '95, Chip & Patty Miller (parents of Mike '92 and Tim '95)

Martha & Bill Goodman '60

Michael Gabrys ’88, Bob Lukas ’76, Br. Jim Boynton, S.J. Tim Hoey ’76, Darryl Robinson ’76, Ray Villeneuve ’76, Dave Gumbel ’00

Mikey & Jim Lepczyk (parents of Tim '00, Brad '02, Mark '05, Andrew '12)

Paula & Mark Doman '70

Vivian & Pat McTigue '60

DENVER

Dan Malone '99

Bejal & Amit Shah '01

Ray BonAnno '58 - receiving his Leadership in Generosity award

CALLING ALL CUB ALUMS! 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.

Terry O'Rourke '60

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John Parillo - parent of Mark '14

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

ALUMNI MOTHERS' CLUB

The Alumni Mothers’ Club mission is to be a service and social organization. They sponsor activities to bring U of D Jesuit alumni mothers together to maintain a strong community as they continue building camaraderie, fellowship, friendships, and connections. The Alumni Mothers' Club strives to enhance the alumni support and connection to The High.

After their sons graduate from U of D Jesuit, alumni mothers can’t imagine walking away from all the amazing women they’ve met and called friends during their sons' academy and high school years. Nor do alumni moms want to stop their support for such a great school. The U of D Jesuit Alumni Mothers’ Club (AMC) was established more than 30 years ago. Every year, the Alumni Mothers’ Club welcomes moms from the most recent graduating class.

Members of the AMC range from moms whose sons graduated decades ago to moms whose sons recently matriculated from U of D Jesuit. They are a diverse, supportive, and a welcoming community.​

SCAN TO LEARN MORE AND JOIN THE CLUB TODAY!

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Tom Coyne was all about serving others.

He went the extra mile in the classroom and in life. He knew his students, not just then, but years later.

- Tim LaRouere ’78

What He Gave.

The Enduring Legacy of Tom Coyne ’62 There are teachers you remember. And then there are those who become part of the foundation of who you are. For generations of students at U of D Jesuit, Tom Coyne ’62 was the latter. Ask alumni who first comes to mind when you mention U of D Jesuit, and the answers arrive as vivid, human snapshots of the late Mr. Tom Coyne.

“A smiling teacher who showed us how enjoyable science can be,” recalls Paul Wang ’78.

“His enthusiasm for teaching and learning, he really made it fun,” adds John Woll, M.D. ’79.

Dr. John Blase ’92, P '25, sees something even more specific: “Tom in his red pants, plaid shirt, and white hat, up before everyone else on Quetico trips, brewing coffee and coaxing sleepy teenagers out of their tents with breakfast.”

That was Tom Coyne, present, energetic, unmistakably himself.

But the deeper question remains: why him?

“There are many great teachers,” says Tim LaRouere ’78. “But Tom Coyne was all about serving others. He went the extra mile in the classroom and in life. He knew his students, not just then, but years later.”

For many, the answer is simple. He didn’t just teach at U of D Jesuit, he lived it.

THE HUMAN SIDE: A CLASSROOM YOU DIDN’T FORGET Walking into Tom Coyne’s classroom meant stepping into something alive.

“You had to be ready for anything,” LaRouere remembers. “His energy, commitment, and passion were contagious.”

Students weren’t passive observers. They were participants in something dynamic, something demanding.

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“He held you accountable,” Wang says. “But he made learning fun.”

And then there were the tests, legendary in both length and lore. Coyne’s exams were intentionally impossible to finish. His grading system? Even more unforgettable. He would take the same test himself, with only half the time, and whatever he completed became the benchmark for a perfect score.

“It became a challenge,” Wang recalls. “Trying to get over 100% was part of the fun.”

Ken Miranda '78 still laughs at the memory: “A 21page final exam, and somehow, he made you feel biology. Sheep eyeballs, the Krebs cycle, it stuck with you.” “There’s no contradiction between being demanding and compassionate,” Wang explains, describing Coyne’s balance of rigor and care. “He loved us and expected more from us because of it.”

THE DEFINING STORY: SHARON If the classroom revealed Tom Coyne the teacher, his life revealed something deeper, his devotion to his sister, Sharon. After the death of their parents, Coyne assumed guardianship of his special-needs sister, and from that moment on, Sharon became inseparable from his world. She was there at home, in the classroom, on golf outings, at concerts, woven naturally into the rhythm of his daily life. For generations of students, Sharon wasn’t an example held up for instruction. She was simply present.

And in that presence, something lasting took root.

“It gave real meaning to Men for Others," LaRouere says. “He gave so much to his students, but even more to caring for his sister.”

Doug Rodriguez ’79 puts it plainly: “He taught us what it meant without ever saying it.”

Coyne’s care for Sharon was not something he turned on or off. It was constant and unwavering. There were no grand gestures, just a lifetime of faithful love.

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Now It’s Our Turn.

“I’ve never forgotten that example of pure selflessness,” Blase reflects.

“He dedicated his life to her and never complained. Not once.”

For many who witnessed it, that quiet example became the most powerful lesson of all, not one delivered from a podium, but one lived, day after day.

The Class of 2003 understood what that meant. They gave him a varsity jacket, not for playing a sport, but for embodying the spirit behind all of them.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT: A LIFE MULTIPLIED Long after graduation, Tom Coyne’s influence continued to unfold.

“He showed us what it looks like to blend career, family, and service,” says LaRouere. “That became a model for our lives.”

For Woll, the impact was deeply practical. “He taught me how to master volume, how to learn. That carried me through [my studies in] medicine.”

For others, it was something more personal. Blase remembers a turning point: a conversation on a Quetico trip that changed how he saw himself.

“He showed confidence in me that I didn’t have,” Blase says. “That moment stayed with me. It shaped my future.”

Even years later, Miranda recalls small gestures that meant everything: “He’d send packages while I was in college. That kind of support, it stayed with you.”

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: TOTAL COMMITMENT

Across professions, medicine, business, education, public service, his former students carry the same imprint: a love of learning, and a commitment to others.

Tom Coyne didn’t clock out. He showed up, everywhere. Though never an athlete himself, he taped injured players, chalked fields, washed uniforms, drove buses, kept stats, hosted team dinners, and set up games. He was at school seven days a week, year after year.

Before some students even had him in class, they already knew him.

“He drove the bus to our first swim practice,” Woll recalls. “He was the trainer. The guy lining the fields. He was everywhere.”

LaRouere remembers something even more remarkable: “He’d be at late-night games, and the next morning, he was back in the classroom, ready to teach at full energy.”

It gave real meaning to Men for Others. He gave so much to his students, but even more to caring for his sister.

- Tim LaRouere ’78 19

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Blase puts it in today’s context. “The world needs Men for Others now more than ever,” said Blase. “This is how we create them.”

And Wang offers a reminder that feels especially fitting.

“Establishing a fully endowed scholarship isn’t something one person can do alone. It takes a village, and the U of D Jesuit alumni community is just that village.”

HIS LEGACY, IN ONE LINE TURNING MEMORY INTO ACTION: THE SCHOLARSHIP

That lasting impact is now taking shape in a tangible way. In honor Tom Coyne’s life and legacy, alumni from the Class of 1978, led by Miranda, Wang, and Steve Puhr established the Thomas K. Coyne ’62 Endowed Scholarship, awarded to a deserving student.

It reflects exactly who Coyne was.

“He championed the ‘little guy,’” Blase says. “He saw potential where others might not.”

Wang points to something broader, “The diversity of U of D Jesuit is what made it special. Scholarships like this ensure that continues.”

The goal is clear: to create opportunities for students who embody the same spirit of curiosity, resilience, and service that Coyne lived every day.

But the work isn’t finished.

With $165,000 raised toward a $400,000 goal, the effort now turns to the wider alumni community.

Ask those who knew him to define his legacy, and the answers converge: “We can find happiness and fulfillment by dedicating our lives to others.” — Paul Wang ’78 “He helped his students become the best versions of themselves.”

— John Woll, M.D. ’79 “The best example of a ‘Man for Others’ the school has ever produced.” — Dr. John Blase ‘92

LOOKING AHEAD Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, a student will receive the Thomas K. Coyne ’62 Endowed Scholarship. They may never have met him. They won’t have sat in his classroom or taken his exams or heard his voice calling their name, but if this community does its part, they will know this: That the opportunity before them exists because one man chose, every day, to give more than he took.

To serve without seeking reward.

To live, fully and faithfully, as a Man for Others.

And that legacy, like Tom Coyne himself, will keep showing up, long after the final bell.

A CALL TO THE COMMUNITY For those who knew Tom Coyne, this moment carries weight.

“A lot of us owe a lot to Tom,” Miranda says. “This is a way to express our gratitude, and continue what he started.”

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Click to donate to the Thomas K. Coyne '62 Scholarship

Visit planned giving

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

ATHLETICS Fall and winter sports honors

Look for our spring sports wrap-up in the Fall 2026 issue of Highlights

FALL SOCCER Under first-year head coach Aaron Pfeil, named District Coach of the Year, Varsity Soccer turned in an impressive 15-4-4 season and secured another district title. The team’s commitment extended beyond the field, as they collectively earned All-State Academic honors. Individual recognition followed: Javier Antaran ’26 (All-State Academic), Rico Armijo ’26 (All-State Academic, All-District Team), Owen Bishop ’26 (All-State Academic, All-Region), Brennan Curtis ’27 (All-State Academic), Parker Dokho ’26 (All-State Academic, All-District Honorable Mention), Nick Gabrys ’26 (All-State Academic, All-District, All-Region, All-State Honorable Mention), Quinn Levin ’27 (All-District Team), Vasco Marra ’27 (All-District, All-Region, All-State Second Team), Light Rock ’26 (All-District, All-Region, All-State Honorable Mention), and Mitchell Sobeck ’27 (All-State Academic, All-District Honorable Mention).

FOOTBALL U of D Jesuit Varsity Football was well represented at the Catholic High School League (CHSL) level, with several players earning postseason recognition and being honored during the Prep Bowl at Ford Field. Kellen Miller ’28 and Brandon Williams, Jr. ’26 were named All-Catholic, while Langston Johnson ’27 and Malcomb Ross, II ’27 earned All-League honors. Elijah Hines ’26 was recognized for his work in the classroom with All-Academic distinction.

CROSS COUNTRY Nearly all Cub Harriers scored personal records this year. Led

by Justin Mkrtumian ’27 who ran a personal best 16:34 at the 41st Fr. Gabriel Richard XC Invitational. Justin also garnered All-Catholic League honors.

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TENNIS Varsity Tennis placed 7th at the State Championships, with every flight securing at least one match win, a testament to the team’s depth. Roman Vuljaj ’28 highlighted the tournament with a gritty performance in the 3 Singles Final, battling through injury to force a third-set tiebreaker and ultimately finishing as State Runner-Up. Liam Nantais ’28 earned MHSAA All-State Honorable Mention in singles and was also named All-Catholic, while Truman Yaldoo ’26 (All-League) and Andrew Burke ’26 (All-Academic) were also recognized.

WINTER BASKETBALL Several Cubs earned CHSL Central Division honors, as selected by league coaches: Solomon Spann IV ’26, Marcel Brown El ’27, and Jaden Garwood ’26 were named All-League, while Colin Langdon ’26 earned All-Academic recognition. At the Academy level, Coach Peter Richer’s Cub Academy A team captured the CYO Championship with a win over St. Patrick’s, marking the program’s eighth title and third in five years.

BOWLING Emory Stone ’26 delivered a standout performance at the MHSAA Division 1 State Singles Championship, finishing among the top four bowlers in Michigan. Entering the quarterfinals as the 12-seed, he defeated both the 5-seed and 4-seed before falling to the eventual state champion, capping an impressive senior campaign.

WRESTLING The Cubs closed the season with strong individual efforts, highlighted by Patrick Wales ’29, who placed third at Districts to advance to Regionals and narrowly missed qualifying for the state meet.

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

2025-2026 FALL-WINTER HONORS SWIM & DIVE The Cubs continued their dominance in the pool, capturing their fourth CHSL title in five years. At the state level, they finished as runner-up after a strong showing at Eastern Michigan University. A large contingent qualified for the state meet, including Michael Bailey ’28, Emilio Benavente ’26, Troy Dobronos ’27, Brady Hendzell ’27, Lucas Hixon ’28, Amare Horsley ’27, Sean Kanary ’26, Miles Lobley ’29, Cooper Masters ’27, Charlie McCuiston ’27, Jack McCuiston ’28, Charlie Michael ’27, Peter O’Donnell ’26, Kaden Patterson ’28, Wyatt Ramseyer ’27, Adam Smigielski ’27, and Sarakh Thiam ’28. Ramseyer captured both Regional and CHSL diving titles.

Adding to the program’s legacy, head coach Drew Edson was inducted into the CHSL Hall of Fame, Class of 2026.

HOCKEY The Cubs advanced to their seventh Frozen Four appearance in program history following a dramatic overtime victory over Trenton in Allen Park. Their postseason run ended just short of the title game against eventual state champion Flint Powers Catholic. The roster featured a host of honorees, including Matthew Angell ’28, Will Balasia ’27, Zack Barringer ’26, Brody Contat ’26, Remy Finney ’28, Carter Gogate ’26, Henrik McManus ’26, Teo Mosera ’27, Andrew Rafaill ’26, Luke Shubeck ’27, and Van Swanson ’28, recognized across All-State, All-League, and MIHL distinctions.

SKIING The Ski Team turned in a strong season, finishing 10th overall.

Tommy McSkimming ’26 led the way with an outstanding individual performance, placing 8th in Giant Slalom and 14th in Slalom, earning All-League honors.

His Giant Slalom finish qualified him for the State Finals at Boyne Mountain, where he placed 39th.

Honors Varsity baseball player, Danny O’Hare ’26, was honored with the 2025 Irish Heritage National Leadership Award, presented by the Ancient Order of Hibernians. The recognition reflects his achievements in the classroom, on the field, and in the community, along with a proud family heritage rooted in Athy, Ennis, Ardfert, and Belfast.

Class of 2026 College Commits: Brock Ballard, Lawrence Technological University (Baseball) Michari Bradshaw, Kalamazoo College (Football) Jaden Garwood, Wayne County CC (Basketball) Jayden Johnson, Lansing CC (Baseball) Vince Perkins, Rochester Institute of Technology–New York (Basketball) Chinelo A. Robinson, Boston University (Soccer) Light Rock, Lawrence Technological University (Soccer) Kevin Whitlow, Purdue University–Fort Wayne (Soccer) Brandon Williams, Davenport University (Football)

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.

2025-2026 Alumni Athletic Coaches Jim Mancuso '02 Baseball Christian Werner ’15 Baseball Chris Dael ’10 Ac Baseball Chris Jenkins ’12 Basketball Justin Tarplin ’17 Basketball Bill Blackwell ’73 Basketball Daniel Friday ’19 Basketball Frank Ruokolainen '21 Ac. Basketball Evan Nazareno ’15 Bowling Ezra Houghtby ’15 Bowling

Donald Johnson ’20 Football Jeffery Knighht '20 Football

Brendan Lopus ’14 Soccer Kevin O'Brien ’09 Ac. Soccer Jacob Lyon ’09 Ac. Soccer/Skiing David Rozman ’09 Ac. Soccer

Paul Diehl '73 Golf Sean Johnson '89 Golf Soti Michalos '17 Golf Dominic Recchia ’06 Hockey Tommy Apap ’14 Hockey Alex Chapie ’20 Hockey Vince Recchia ’08 Hockey Enzo Recchia ’13 Hockey Steve Gabrys '89 Lacrosse Brad Gray ’91 Lacrosse Thomas Burns '21 Ac. Lacrosse Henry Ghawi '21 Ac. Lacrosse Chris Spilker '93 Ac. Lacrosse Scott Nelson ’17 Strength & Conditioning

Matt Comment ’14 Swim & Dive John Santieu ’10 Swim & Dive

Cole Brock ’19 Track & Field Malcolm Jones ’18 Ac. Track & Field/FB Jeffery Knight ’20 Ac. Track & Field/FB Jake Vincent ’11 Wrestling Aaron Rife ’11 Wrestling Joseph Stachelek ’24 Wrestling 23

CUB

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Alumni Life Updates

Chronicles Brendan Batcheller ’15 and Lala Kumakura were married at the New York Botanical Garden on September 20, 2025. The couple met at Fordham University 10 years ago. The wedding party included Kameron Dunbar and Paul Jones III, both classmates at U of D.

Fr. Karl Kiser, S.J., Provincial of the USA Midwest Province and former U of D Jesuit president, traveled to Rome last fall for the Meeting of Major Superiors of the Society of Jesus, where he met Pope Leo XIV following the Pope’s address to the Jesuits attending the meeting.

Professional golfer, Joe Hooks’11, has accepted a sponsor’s exemption to play in the 2026 Rocket Classic. Hooks made his PGA TOUR debut in the 2025 Rocket Classic and will play in the 2026 event July 30-August 2.

A group of Cub alumni gather almost every month for breakfast or outings like golf. The Breakfast Club, from left, Ed Palermo ’69, Brian Black ‘69, Harry Sakalian ’69, Chris Przybycien ’67, and Joe Davio ’67.

Four members of the Class of 1969 stopped by the Johnson Recreation Center for a tour and lunch and to swap stories from their days at The High. (L to R) Mark Nelson, Ed Palermo, Brian Black and Mark Kwicinski.

The class of '91 represented in DC at the Detroit Lions vs Washington Commanders game on Nov. 9th with: Joe Kelly, Brian Monnich, John Kuras, Mark Muscat and Brad Gray, taking our somewhat annual Lions tailgate on the road this year. Had a great weekend catching up and reminiscing about our time at U of D. Go Cubs!

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026 Duke University School of Medicine’s Department of Emergency Medicine has appointed John D. Purakal ’03, MD, MSc as its inaugural Director of Health Equity & Community Engagement.

An associate professor of emergency medicine, Dr. Purakal will lead efforts to advance health equity, strengthen community partnerships, and expand evidence-based programs that address patients’ unmet social needs across Duke’s emergency care network.

Colin Donnelly ’15 and his wife, Maya, welcomed their first child, Killian James Donnelly born on November 5, 2025, in Lansing. Killian is also the grandson of Pat Donnelly, athletic director and Cub Hall of Famer.

Congratulations to Butch Hollowell '77, Bill McConico '91 and parent of Will '24, Carla Walker Miller, parent of Malcom ’08 and Matthew ’08, and Gregory Jackson, parent of Jordan ’07, for making the Michigan Chronicle 2025 Power 50, honoring the 50 most powerful African Americans in Southeast Michigan.

William McGrail ’88 has been appointed president of Detroit Cristo Rey High School. He most recently led fundraising, and community partnership efforts for Loyola High School Detroit.

The Annual Alumni Hockey Game was held on the afternoon of December 23, 2025, at the Hazel Park Ice Arena. Thirty U of D Jesuit alumni came out to participate in a friendly game of odd graduation years versus even graduation years.

Marlon Brown ‘02 and Jamie Morin ‘93 were among the 42 people inducted into the National Academy of Public Administration in 2025 at a ceremony at the National Academy of Sciences in Washington DC. A recent car purchase led to a serendipitous Cub-to-Cub connection for Reilly Brennan ’97 when his salesperson at Serra Automotive Group in Okemos turned out to be Tyrone Ramsey ’15. When Reilly mentioned he was Class of ’97, Tyrone replied, ‘Hey, I was born in 1997.’

After graduating medical school, Kiernan Bloye ‘15 was matched at his first choice the University of Chicago Hospital.

He proposed to his now wife Sarah Gargaro. She graduated from Michigan Law School. We settled in the Chicago area.

They were married September 6, 2025. I am finishing my 2nd year of residency in pediatrics and will stay on for a 4th as Chief Resident. Sarah works for the city of Chicago practicing Civil Rights Law. They honeymooned to Argentina this Spring.

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CUB

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Alumni Life Updates

Chronicles

Congratulations to Lucas Kuzak ’17 for making the Forbes 30 under 30 for his work to provide healthy food options for students. Lucas co-founded Ordo to address student food insecurity and eliminate processed meals from school lunches.

Ordo partners with public school districts, local governments, and independent schools to provide fresh, scratch-made meals to students, and this year is serving more than 4.5 million meals across 18 states.

cont.

Fr. John Maksym '79, pastor at Old St. Mary's Catholic Church, Detroit was honored as Hometown Hero of the Day at the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball game, recognized for his remarkable 31-year career as a U.S. Navy Commander and as a proud University of Michigan graduate.

Daniel Kuzniar '24 has been honored as one of the 25 under 25 by the Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business. This award recognizes students who have demonstrated success in academics, leadership, professional development and campus/community service. Daniel, along with fellow awardees, were honored during a recognition and awards program in May.

Phil Armada ‘79 and his daughter Kurestin (Magnificat ’09, Kenyon College ’13) climbed Japan’s Mount Fuji.

Spartans today, Cubs forever. The MSU Class of 2026 alumni from the U of D Jesuit Class of 2022 showed that their Cub bonds run strong wherever life takes them.

Share your good news with us.

Scan the QR code to appear in our next Highlights.

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Joe West ’07 and Nicole welcomed their baby boy Liam on December 13th, 2025.

Khalid Pitts ’85 and his wife, Diane Gross, have opened a third Cork Wine Bar in Washington DC. Khalid and Diane have graciously hosted our alumni gatherings in the D.C. area over the years.

Last October, Ed Parks ’57 was awarded the 2025 John Carroll University Alumni Medal, the highest award given annually by John Carroll University that recognizes individuals for their professional achievements, contributions to their community, exemplary personal and family lives, and service to others and John Carroll University.

Creating a Legacy at U of D Jesuit

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Arrupe Society

Visit planned giving

THE MCCLAINS ON

THEIR "WHY"

The McClain Family

The story, for Roch McClain ’75, begins just a few blocks from Detroit’s Gesu Parish, in a neighborhood where faith, family, and community shaped everyday life. The youngest of four, he remembers a childhood defined by both freedom and structure: “Church, school, and play, not always in that order, defined my childhood.”

Roch says of his mother. Both sons ultimately chose the school, with their daughter Andie attending Mercy High School and graduating in '05. Jimmy went on to return to U of D Jesuit after college to serve through the Alumni Volunteer corps while his brother was still a student.

There was a rhythm to those early years, riding bikes until the streetlights flickered on, the ever-watchful “Mom Mafia,” and the steady example of parents deeply rooted in their Catholic faith. His father, James ’36, left a lasting impression. “That one-on-one time with my father played a significant role in shaping who I became,” Roch reflects, recalling Saturdays spent running errands together, followed by lunch with his mother, Cecile. Those moments, simple as they were, became formative.

Roch’s own years at U of D Jesuit proved transformative. “Of the 18 years of formal education I received, I firmly believe the four years at U of D Jesuit were the most impactful and influential of all,” he says.

The Jesuit approach, grounded in service, reflection, and intellectual rigor, left a lasting imprint. “They taught care and compassion. They also instilled critical thinking skills, spiritual discernment and strong study habits.” Just as meaningful were the lifelong friendships and enduring network formed during those years.

Faith in the McClain household was not just practiced, it was lived.

When Roch was 10, his family received news that would further shape that foundation: his brother, Fr. Tom McClain ’67 S.J., would become a Jesuit priest. “I didn’t fully understand what ‘becoming a priest’ meant,” he admits, “except that he would be moving, which meant I suddenly had our bedroom to myself.” Over time, that childhood reaction gave way to deep admiration. Today, Roch speaks with pride about his brother’s global Jesuit service, including 13 years at the Vatican.

The connection to the school deepened even further when his wife, Martie, joined the community as its first nurse in 1999, a role she continues to support even in retirement. Together, they have built a life rooted in gratitude. “We have been blessed with a beautiful family, great friends, good health, and a strong relationship with our God and faith,” Roch says.

For Roch, attending University of Detroit Jesuit was never really a decision, it was an expectation shaped by family, faith, and a touch of humor. “Family lore has it that when I was born, getting in wasn’t guaranteed,” he says. “So, my mom decided to bless me with the middle name Xavier, convinced that U of D Jesuit would have no choice but to accept me.”

That gratitude ultimately defines their “why.” Reflecting on a life shaped by opportunity and community, the McClains made the intentional decision to give back. “Our family has benefited immensely from those who came before us, those who sacrificed and labored to lay the first cornerstone,” Roch says.

Their planned gift to the Arrupe Society is more than a contribution; it is a continuation of a legacy. “We now wish to pay it forward for future generations of Cubs,” Roch explains, “one small way to ensure that U of D Jesuit continues its mission of forming Men for Others.”

That sense of destiny extended into the next generation. When it came time for his sons, James ’02 and Matthew ’09, to choose their own paths, the same quiet influence resurfaced. “She made it very clear to her oldest grandson that U of D Jesuit was his destiny,”

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Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DECEASED ALUMNI This list reflects names shared with us since October 2025, including individuals who passed earlier but were only recently reported

Andrew Valenti ’44 January 28, 2026

John Peoples ’55 November 25, 2025

Joseph Callanan ’57 February 25, 2026

Robert Sanke ’60 July 10, 2023

Gary Pociask ’75 December 20, 2025

Earl Hudak ’47 March 7, 2026

Oliver Marcotte ’55 January 14, 2026

Michael Noel ’57 November 2, 2025

Thomas Krell ’61 December 10, 2025

Michael McInerney ’75 January 1, 2026

William Tenrowicz ’47 January 9, 2026

Richard Kane (Kacvinsky) ’55 January 30, 2022

Lawrence Kolberg ’58 October 7, 2025

Thomas Rodgers ’62 December 20, 2025

Thomas Beall ’79 February 19, 2026

Andrew Kuklock ’60 December 26, 2025

John Sheridan ’65 November 5, 2025

Michael Brennan ’82 February 20, 2022

Donald Nadon ’60 January 3, 2026

Leonard Smith ’65 November 9, 2025

John Hughes ’83 February 26, 2026

Donald Saunders ’60 November 30, 2025

Anthony Niemann ’68 March 3, 2026

Stuart Copley ’07 June 27, 2025

James Dandy ’60 March 9, 2026

Edward Pitts ’71 November 30, 2025

Joseph Vieson ’60 December 25, 2025

Steven Durgin ’72 December 6, 2025

Paul Bricker ’60 February 9, 2026

Sherman Smith ’74 February 10, 2026

Leonard Prekel ’48 February 11, 2026 Robert Monte (Monticelli) ’48 January 15, 2025

Robert Zurack ’55 November 3, 2025 William Yott ’55 December 3, 2025

Alan Strickfaden ’51 January 28, 2026

Edmund Harding ’56 March 3, 2026

Arthur Kennedy ’52 January 24, 2026

John Orlyk ’56 November 17, 2025

E. Richard Betz ’53 August 20, 2024

Robert Walpole ’56 September 4, 2025

To let us know of the passing of an alumnus, please contact the alumni office at alumni@uofdjesuit. org or (313)927-2304

Make a Memorial Gift at www.uofdjesuit.org/Giving

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Homecoming

OCT

25

Please visit our events page to stay up to date. Events are added and dates are subject to change.

07

Gala

AUG

JUL

SAVE THE DATES

Golden Cubs Mass & Brunch

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SEP

SEP

25

Harbor Springs Alumni & Friends Reception

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Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

22

NOV

U of D Jesuit Invitational

23

NOV

JUL

20

MAROON & WHITE

U OF D JESUIT AUCTION

Fall Open House

Maroon & White Gala

Presidential Installation Mass

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Congratulations to the U of D Jesuit Class of 2026 Our graduates were awarded over $13 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.

2026 Accepted Colleges and Universities Alabama A & M University Boston University Case Western Reserve University Central Michigan University Columbia College–Chicago Creighton University Davenport University DePaul University Eastern Michigan University Emory University Fairfield University Georgetown University Hampton University Howard University Indiana University–Bloomington Jackson State University

Kalamazoo College Kettering University Lansing Community College Lawrence Technological University Loyola University–Chicago Marquette University Miami University–Oxford Michigan State University Michigan Technological University Morehouse College Northern Michigan University Oakland Community College Oakland University Purdue University Purdue University–Fort Wayne Sorbonne Université–France

Texas Christian University University of Tennessee United States Merchant Marine Academy University of Detroit Mercy University of Michigan University of Mississippi University of Notre Dame University of Oxford–England University of Southern California Villanova University Wayne County Community College Wayne State University Western Michigan University Xavier University Yale University

As we brought another school year to a close, two themes consistently emerged with the Class of 2026 as they prepared to join the ranks of alumni: a deep commitment to service and global travel experiences. Our seniors reflected on how these elements distinguish their formation at U of D Jesuit and have prepared them to lead lives with purpose.

Christopher Smith, Ph.D.

Letter from the

On April 22nd I was standing in the back of the Commons observing our “Senior Service Showcase.” Our juniors listened intently as senior representatives shared their reflections from their recently completed year of Senior Service. They shared what they did and who they became in the process. This moment marked a meaningful passing of the baton as one class concluded its service journey at U of D Jesuit, another prepared to begin the largest and final one. What impressed me most was the wisdom our seniors conveyed: show up early, build relationships and truly accompany those you serve. Our students showed respect for the people who work at their service sites every day as managers and coordinators, many of whom were present that day. Many of the students called out their service coordinators for recognition in front of their peers.

Highlights • Spring/Summer 2026

Dear Cub Community,

That mission extends far beyond our campus. Our students are formed locally and globally. Members of the Class of 2026 traveled widely during their time here, most recently to western China, Barcelona, Paris, and London, immersing themselves in new cultures and perspectives. Others have participated in service immersion experiences across the country and around the world. These opportunities are not simply trips; they are transformative experiences that deepen empathy, expand understanding, and reinforce the idea that our students are part of something larger than themselves, a global network grounded in shared values.

Principal This year, that global perspective is reflected in the paths our graduates will take, including two seniors who will continue their studies abroad at University of Oxford and Sorbonne University. Their journeys are a testament to the horizons opened through a U of D Jesuit education. I am grateful to our dedicated faculty and staff who keep making these opportunities available for our students and to our benefactors who help make a U of D Jesuit education a reality for students.

Equally powerful this spring has been the visible strength of our community. On Career Day, we welcomed back alumni from across generations to mentor our students and offer insight into the world that awaits them. The messages at the Alumni Senior Luncheon from our Alumni of the Year stressed service to others and a commitment to justice. Our athletic programs are filled with alumni coaches who are finding ways to give back to their fellow Cubs.

I think this is a great message as we close out the school year: the school is a community with scores of people dedicated to the students’ formation. The responsibility we give to our graduates is determining how they will support this Mission and the larger objective of being Men for Others here in Detroit and in the wider world.

Sincerely,

Christopher Smith, Ph.D. Principal

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UNIVERSITY OF DETROIT JESUIT

8400 South Cambridge Detroit, Michigan 48221

Fo r m i n g M e n f o r O t h e r s s i n c e 1 8 7 7

Coming Soon!

Celebrate 150 Years of U of D Jesuit.

As we prepare to celebrate the 150th anniversary of University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy in 2027, we have created 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, and help from alums.

It will be avaiable for purchase at the Cub Corner and online. Look out for more details to come soon.

Any questions, please reach out to thomas.o’keefe@uofdjesuit.org.