Striving Forward

Our Mission: Lake Catholic High School is an educational community centered in the mission of Jesus Christ where the young men and women of diverse interests and abilities are encouraged to learn, to work, and to think for themselves.

Our Core Values

Commitment to excellence

Spirit of respect and compassion

Personal integrity

Willingness to serve

Welcome to the fifth edition of Striving Forward, the magazine for and about the Lake Catholic community.

Dear Lake Catholic Community,

Welcome to the latest edition of Striving Forward!

As I pen this message, I am filled with a deep sense of hope, optimism, and enthusiasm for the future. This is indeed a time of great change and promise for Lake Catholic, and I am both honored and thrilled to be on this journey with all of you.

This year, our school has seen remarkable growth. We’re excited to announce increased enrollment, a testament to the vibrant and welcoming environment we’ve fostered here. Alongside this growth, we’ve undertaken significant facility improvements that not only enhance our learning spaces but also support our shared faith and the needs of both students and teachers. These updates reflect our commitment to providing a nurturing and dynamic environment where everyone can thrive.

Working alongside our dedicated faculty and staff, I am continuously inspired by the palpable enthusiasm and youthful exuberance of our students. Their energy and passion motivate us all to push forward and elevate the mission of Lake Catholic. Together with Principal Tom McKrill (‘07), we are setting high standards and striving for excellence in every aspect of our school life. Our goal is not only to meet these standards but to exceed them, reflecting our belief that we can and should aim high in everything we do.

At Lake Catholic, we expect the best from ourselves because we know that this expectation fuels our growth and success. We are committed to supporting our students both today and in their future endeavors, ensuring that our high standards today set the stage for their achievements tomorrow.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our community. As you delve into this edition of Striving Forward, I hope you’ll find inspiration and pride in all that we’ve accomplished and all that lies ahead.

Here’s to a year of continued excellence, growth, and shared success.

Warm regards,

John Morabeto President

What’s Inside

Scan for Lake Catholic Calendar

What’s Happening in Cougar Country

Back to School

The 2024-25 school year kicked off with our New Student Orientation! Our newest Cougars learned about life at Lake Catholic, met their teachers and classmates, enjoyed many CougarBowls for lunch, and had their first pep rally where the seniors, cheerleaders and dance team taught them the necessities for our pep rallies and sporting events.

Many members of the Class of 2028 joined senior leaders for the annual Frosh Fire on August 24. The meet-and-greet event was comprised of music and dancing, games and, of course, the bonfire. Meanwhile, down the street, the parents of the Class of 2028 gathered for their own social event, courtesy of the Lake Catholic Advancement Department.

More than 100 families of new students – incoming freshmen, transfer students and international students – attended our inaugural New Student Family Picnic. It was a great event put on by our Admissions Department that allowed our incoming families to meet each other and administrators, all while playing games and enjoying great food and companionship.

The entire school celebrated the first all-school Mass on August 29, presided by Lake Catholic Chaplain Fr. Joshua Trefney. During the mass, two students and a staff member were commissioned as Eucharistic Ministers and Fr. Joshua said a special prayer over our senior Spiritual Life leaders.

New Student Orientation

Inaugural New Student Family Picnic

First All-School Mass

Frosh Fire

Admissions

On September 13th, local junior high students interested in Lake Catholic’s band, cheer or football programs participated in our Cougar For A Day. Each group attended practices with their respective team and were invited to be a part of the gameday against Willoughby South. The cheerleaders joined the varsity squad during the third quarter, while the band members marched and played with the Cougar Pride Marching Band during the pre-game.

Also in September, we hosted the first of our VIP days, where prospective students meet many Lake Catholic students, faculty and administrators, tour our building, and experience our spiritual and educational curriculum. This is an amazing way for students to get a feel for what it will be like when they officially join our Cougar Community!

Scholarships & Awards

Thirteen Lake Catholic students were honored and awarded scholarships by the Christ Child Society of the Western Reserve

The awards ceremony was held at St. John Vianney followed by Fr. Tom Johns presiding over Mass for the students, their families and the Christ Child Society. Fr. Johns reminded the scholarship winners, “Whenever something good is done to you, pay it forward. Find a way to do something good for others.”

Congratulations to those receiving the scholarships for the 2024-25 school year: Kyle Boyd (‘25), Caden Boyes (‘25), Carson Gilbert (‘25), Megan Joy (‘25), Luke Joy (‘25), Jimmy Meden (‘25), Frannie Webber (‘25), Angelina Capra (‘26), Kaelyn Nemeth (‘26), Kiera Nemeth (‘26), Brayden Mann (‘26), Cameron Crews (‘27) and Robert Vidmar (‘27).

When members of the Lake Catholic Class of 2004 planned their 20-year reunion, they wanted to find a way to give back to the school they called home. They collected and made a sizeable donation to the Erin (Gaydos) Carlisle Memorial Scholarship in memory of their classmates Erin (Gaydos) Carlisle (‘04) and Mollie (Stanic) Hoar (‘04).

That scholarship was awarded in September to Lake Catholic senior Max Barnes (‘25), with both the Gaydos and Stanic families in attendance.

Lake Catholic became the first school in Lake County to partner with The Howley Foundation, whose mission is to create social and economic mobility and improve lives by providing quality educational opportunities. In September, five Lake Catholic freshmen who excel academically and in extracurricular activities were awarded renewable scholarships from The Howley Foundation. Amarion Levitt (‘28), Gabriella Rios (‘28), Lilly Macek (‘28), Finnigan Kilbane (‘28) and Mason O’Donnell (‘28) met with representatives from The Howley Foundation for lunch where they were presented with a congratulatory letter, a certificate and their Howley Scholar pin.

Christ Child Society of the Western Reserve Scholarship recipients

The Howley Foundation Scholarship recipients

Max Barnes (center), recipient of the Erin (Gaydos) Carlisle Memorial Scholarship, with his family.

What’s Happening in Cougar Country

Athletics

Football - During Week 2 of the season, quarterback Frankie Trinetti (‘25) set a new career record for touchdowns thrown. He broke the mark of 55 TD passes set by Pete Jelovic (‘92) back between 1990-1992.

Then in Week 6, wide receiver Ace Peterlin (‘25) caught 13 passes in a win against Holy Name. This set the new single-game mark for most catches. The previous record was held by Christian DeMitro (‘19) and Kaz Struna (‘13).

Boys Soccer - Harley Forkins (‘25) set the school record for most goals in a season and most goals in a career.

Volleyball - In early September, Ava Budrys-Rini (‘25) recorded her 500th career kill. And then in early October, Julia Oster (‘25) recorded her 1000th career dig.

Girls Golf - The girls golf team won the program’s first conference championship in school history in September. The girls beat runner-up NDCL by 10 strokes, led by first-team all-conference selections Emma Madsen (‘26) and Ella Zampedro (‘26).

Boys Golf - Kyle Boyd (‘25) was the North Coast Conference medalist after winning on the first playoff hole.

Advancement

After months of interviews, meetings and surveys, more than 80 members of the community met over two days in September to officially write the next Lake Catholic Strategic Plan The team drafted the Vision Statements and Objectives for the eight domains that will set the course for the next five to seven years at Lake Catholic. Once the language is finalized, the plan will be presented to the Diocese of Cleveland, the Lake Catholic Advisory Board and the community as a whole.

Frankie Trinetti

Julia Oster

Ava Budrys-Rini

Kyle Boyd

Ace Peterlin

Girls Golf

Lake Catholic Community Art Show

There were 25 artists in this year’s show, 15 of whom are alumni. The work varied from painting, drawing, jewelry, graphic art, and photography.

Performing & Visual Arts

Save the dates for these upcoming performances and events!

Christmas Concert: December 10, 2024

LCMEA Choir Fest: February 12, 2025

Winter Concert: March 4, 2025

Spring Musical – Little Women: March 13-16, 2025

Lake Catholic Art Show: May 5-9, 2025

Homecoming

The Lake Catholic Alumni Association, in partnership with the Green & Gray Backers and the Gridiron Club, hosted their annual Homecoming Tailgate before the football team took on Padua, Friday, October 4. It was great to see the more than 150 Cougar alumni on hand to support not only the team, but the cheerleaders and band, as the Cougars defeated the Bruins, 46-17. During halftime, Megan Joy (‘25) Jayson Cummings (‘25) were announced as the Homecoming Queen and King.

Art for the Public Good

Lisa (Lorek) Quine (’08)

inspires others through her public art. Lake Catholic helped plant the seeds.

Lisa Quine still remembers a small but lifechanging experience. It was 2013 and she was working as a newly hired art director at Brokaw Advertising – an agency in downtown Cleveland. Stuck in commuter traffic on the I-90 Shoreway, she noticed a spray-painted message on a wall: I’m thankful for you.

“I arrived at work, and all my co-workers were saying, ‘Yeah, I had a lousy morning, but I saw that message and felt so much better.’ When the Shoreway underwent construction, crews covered the message up – but the culprit went back and painted, ‘I’m still thankful for you.’ That made it even better! I will never forget that feeling. When people see my murals, I hope it makes their day better or inspires them to get creative too.”

FORMING A YOUNG ARTIST

As a child, Lisa loved to draw. After family trips to Disney World, she was “obsessed with Disney,” drawing characters and creating flipbooks, thinking she’d become an animator. Her parents enrolled her in private art classes that introduced her to traditional skills in painting, watercolor, pencils and charcoal.

After grade school at St. Mary’s in Mentor, Lisa felt Lake Catholic High School was a natural next step. She became immersed in the camaraderie and competition of soccer, basketball and lacrosse – and still remains close to the same ten girlfriends.

In Lake Catholic’s visual arts program, Lisa expanded her knowledge of different

artists and periods of art, both classical and modern. She recalls field trips to museums and numerous projects that helped narrow her focus to drawing and painting –including one particularly formative senior art project.

“Our teachers were open to experimenting, allowing us to work on one project all semester in open studio time. That was fun because I was so used to following the rules and going where teachers guided me. This put me in the driver’s seat for the first time. It felt like a creative playground.”

“My art teacher, Miss Kelly Finley (now Mrs. Wolf), helped me get a portfolio of work together for acceptance into the Graphic Design program at University of Dayton. I’ll never forget the feeling of having my artwork hung up behind glass outside the art room like a personal gallery show, with practically the whole school walking past it daily.”

LAUNCHING INTO COLLEGE AND CAREER

Entering college, Lisa faced a learning curve as she began to work more extensively with digital art and graphic design programs. It was an intense challenge, leading to many late nights in the studio. “I put a lot of pressure on myself, being a firstborn daughter. I wanted my portfolio to be perfect.”

Her determination paid off, with an opportunity at Brokaw Advertising. “Mark Crowley (president of Lake Catholic at the time) knew the owner and put in a good word for me. I applied for their internship

and got it, and then was hired as an art director.”

She enjoyed the fun work culture and creativity at Brokaw – and the thrill of seeing her ads appear in Cleveland Cavaliers’ programs and on billboards for hospitals and banks. “It was the coolest feeling ever, to be just 22 and see my work out in the real world!”

Lisa then became an art director for Global Prairie, working on business-to-business projects and growing her network. She was also doing side gigs in hand lettering, a passion that began in high school with doodling song lyrics. She began with wedding and shower gifts but evolved into lettering on walls and then murals.

By 2017, change was in the air. Her commissions got bigger, she spoke at her first design conference, and she got married

Lisa’s “Be The Light” artwork is now permanently on display at Lake Catholic in the Campus Ministry Office which she painted in September of 2021.

– all in the span of three months. “I did a $10,000 project, painting six walls on three different levels of an office headquarters. I told myself, ‘I can’t do this with a full-time job. It’s either jump now or shut it down!’” She jumped.

THE ART OF RUNNING HER OWN BUSINESS

Life quickly got “crazy busy” as Lisa focused on murals, lettering, branding and graphic design.

“With murals, I love every step of the process – the sketches, the designs, revising it and then finally installing it. I love trying to solve these big, complicated compositions for companies and incorporating their branding and making it illustrative. But I also like simplicity and just drawing pretty flowers. My style is very detail-oriented with straight lines and bold colors. But the organic nature of flowers lends itself to being a lot looser.”

Lisa has created more than 125 murals for clients across the country, including Amazon, Meta (Facebook), PepsiCo,

“I love every step of the process –the sketches, the designs, revising it and then finally installing it.”

Lisa’s mural featured in the Meta Office Cafe

Walmart, the Cleveland Guardians, Aveda, Mercedes-Benz, Harley-Davidson, DoorDash, Hilton Hotels, Holiday Inn, StubHub, Kohl’s and American Greetings.

In 2018 she was selected to represent Cleveland in Rouen, France, where she collaborated with two French artists to install a mural celebrating 10 years of being Sister Cities. In 2020 she was named one of Cleveland Magazine’s Most Interesting People, and in 2024 she was voted Cleveland Scene’s Best Artist in Cleveland. “It’s funny,” she laughed. “I don’t see myself as an artist. I have such a strong graphic design background, and I’m not painting realistic murals. I’m definitely experiencing imposter syndrome!”

In the spring of 2024, the Cleveland Guardians organization invited Lisa and

four other artists to propose concepts for a mural inside Progressive Field. “I took a week off work. I really, really wanted this and I got competitive. I designed three full murals they could pick from.” The Guardians chose one of Lisa’s designs, and the process moved ahead at breakneck speed – giving her only three weeks to create the 60-foot by 7-foot mural.

“I painted the mural in a warehouse and couldn’t show anything until it was installed. It was a huge reveal. They liked it so much they had me design a t-shirt based on the mural and handed them out for free to the first 10,000 fans. Then they had me throw out the first pitch at that game!”

PAINTING, PARENTING, AND GRATITUDE

Lisa met her husband Mark as a co-worker at Brokaw (“I’ve never met anyone that I am so on the same page with!”) and they now have two children – Renny (4) and River (18 months.) “Kids definitely helped me balance the professional world, painting and parenting. They helped me set boundaries and really clear scheduling.”

Gratitude for all her experiences, both good and bad, is a huge motivator in her life and work. “Growing up in a Catholic community taught me how to be a good person and put kindness first. That’s a message I try to put into my murals. It also taught me devotion, and I feel most devoted to my business and just being creative. I grew up going to church every single Sunday, so it taught me how to have a good work ethic and how to show up.”

Lisa finds joy and a spiritual connection in nature and hiking and getting her kids and two dogs out to explore.

BEAUTY OF PUBLIC ART

Most artists don’t have their work displayed on street corners or in city ballparks. Lisa takes seriously her responsibility to make

“All Colors Are Beautiful” mural. Lisa was chosen by Rouen, France to create a mural that celebrated 10 years of city sisterhood.

Around the corner from the Cleveland Public Library Lorain Branch, you can catch the Destination Cleveland mural celebrating the magic of the city.

the world a better place. “I quite literally want to brighten their day with bright colors. We live in Northeast Ohio, and it’s cloudy a lot. I want to bring a piece of childlike wonder into my murals and into this space we live in.”

While her work appears in cities across the country, she credits the Cleveland community for her thriving business. “Cleveland is pure magic, a big city with a small-town feel. If you know three people, you know the whole city. All my connections get me the jobs I do. And Lake Catholic is a huge part of it because they’re so community focused.”

One of Lisa’s strongest memories from Lake Catholic are the signs in the parking lot that say Enter to Learn and Leave to Serve. “I learned how to do just that – how to be a ‘student of the world’ and find inspiration in my surroundings. And painting murals for a living is a life of service. I want to improve the space and inspire those who will see the artwork. Lake Catholic was foundational in planting the roots of positivity in my work, with art in a public space taking on a bigger meaning and purpose.”

More LC Alumni Artists to follow on Instagram

“Lake Catholic was foundational in planting the roots of positivity in my work.”

Lisa and her husband, Mark Quine, and two children, Renny (4) and River (18 months), at Progressive Field, donning T-shirts that Lisa designed for the Cleveland Guardians.

Anna Skalicki (‘18) @artmaskaa

Tom Mirabelli (‘99) and Steve Manno (‘99) @davedjewelers

Haley (Penca) Mortensen (‘07) @hmortensenart

TEACHERS’ LOUNGE: Changing the Subject

The physical move for both Mrs. Mary Ridler and Mrs. Melissa Grai was less than 100 feet. Yet the transition to not only new classes but also entirely new departments was significant for the two veteran Lake Catholic teachers.

Over the summer, Mary Ridler, who had been the sole teacher in the Technology Department, moved to the Theology Department. Melissa Grai made a similar department move, going from Science, specifically Chemistry, to the math department.

“We’ve been pleased with both situations,” Lake Catholic Vice Principal Maghen Frindt said. “Both theology and math will benefit from the experience these teachers bring to their new roles.”

In addition to her chemical engineering degree from Michigan State, Grai is certified to teach both chemistry and math. During the 2023-2024 school year, she taught Chemistry, Honors Chemistry and Honors Algebra II. Now in her fourth year at Lake Catholic (after 10 years at VASJ), she is expanding her reach with Lake Catholic students, teaching four math classes (Honors Algebra I, Honors Algebra II, Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and AP Calculus) and serving as the Math Department Chair.

“It’s not as big of a change as you might think,” Grai said. “I’m not new to the school, so I know the students. Whatever the subject, my style of teaching remains the same, as does my concern for student success.”

Ridler made the more substantial shift, going from technology to theology — and she was excited to make the change..

“When I applied at Lake Catholic in 2021, I interviewed for a theology position,” she said. “I didn’t get it then, but was offered a STEM position a few months after that interview.”

“Whatever the subject, my style of teaching remains the same, as does my concern for student success.”

– Melissa Grai

Ridler has her STEM certification and ran the STEM department at Mater Dei Academy for four years before coming to Lake Catholic. She has taught Robotics, 3D Printing, Introduction to Computer Drawing and Design, Technology Applications and Innovation, and Cougar Broadcasting Network/Digital Media throughout her first three years here. Now she’s overseeing ninth-grade theology classes, as well as one 12th-grade theology class.

“My expertise is in seventh-, eighth-, and ninth-grade religion, so this is a perfect spot for me with the freshmen,” Ridler said.

Both teachers have settled into their new roles and continue to share their passion for educating Lake Catholic students.

Mary Ridler

Melissa Grai

As a 2000 graduate, I am deeply honored to serve Lake Catholic as the Director of Advancement. My own journey began within these very halls, shaped by the incredible faculty and staff that helped to form a foundation for my future. Returning to Lake Catholic in this capacity is not just a professional role for me; it is a heartfelt homecoming. I am grateful that I am able to make an impact on a place that made such an impact on me.

As we continue another school year, I am filled with immense gratitude as I reflect on the commitment of our community. The spirit of Lake Catholic thrives through our strong alumni, parent, grandparent, and friend community. They are the cornerstone of our school, and their unwavering commitment is a testament to the core values we uphold. Together, we have built a legacy of excellence that empowers our students to not only achieve in academics, but to also grow as compassionate, faith-filled leaders within their communities.

In the 2023-2024 Advancement Review you will see that commitment and the impact it makes within the school. Your involvement – whether through mentorship, volunteering, or financial support– makes a profound difference in the lives of our students. With your help, we can continue to enhance academic programs, provide scholarships, and enrich the overall experience of every student who walks through our doors.

I invite you to join us in this shared journey. Your support is vital in ensuring that we can provide our students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Whether you choose to make a donation, participate in events, or simply spread the word about the wonderful things happening at Lake Catholic, your engagement is

Carla Ronnebaum (‘00) Director of Advancement

DONOR ROLL CALL

10. MIAMI UNIVERSITY

CAMPUS INTERNATIONAL CHARDON SCHOOLS

CORPUS CHRISTI ACADEMY

EASTLAKE MIDDLE

EUCLID MIDDLE SCHOOL

HARMON MIDDLE SCHOOL (AURORA)

HOMESCHOOL

ISTEM

JOHN R WILLIAMS

KIRTLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL

MADISON MIDDLE

MATER DEI

MAYFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL

MEMORIAL MIDDLE SCHOOL

NOTRE DAME ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

OHDELA

OUR LADY OF THE LAKE

OUR SHEPHERD LUTERHAN PERRY

SHORE MIDDLE SCHOOL

SS. ROBERT & WILLIAM

ST ANSELM

ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI

ST GABRIEL

ST HELEN

ST JEROME

ST JOHN (ASHTABULA)

ST MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION

ST. MARY CHARDON

ST THOMAS AQUINAS

URBAN COMMUNITY

SCHOOL

W-E SCHOOL OF INNOVATION

WEST GEAUGA

WICKLIFFE MIDDLE SCHOOL

WILLOUGHBY MIDDLE SCHOOL

WILLOWICK MIDDLE SCHOOL

The New Faces & Spaces of Lake Catholic

New & Refreshed Spaces

Completed in August, the $1M locker rooms renovation, paid for in part by a private benefactor, introduces state-of-the-art features designed to enhance both functionality and comfort. Over 130 brand new lockers were added and include distinct areas designated for student-athletes and their teams. This space is a part of the larger Zappitelli Family Athletic Performance Center.

Over the summer, the chapel was upgraded with improved lighting, new carpet throughout, laminate flooring on the altar, and a more vibrant sound system — thanks to a generous gift from the Rini Family Foundation.

A baby grand piano was also donated by Mr. Chris Sammett for use during masses and prayer services.

Seating and small tables were added to the open floor of the vivarium, allowing classes to use the space throughout the day. Along with science classes, you might also find an art class working on different projects or a theology class meditating in the space.

New Student Class Offerings

Yearbook

Motogo Taking apart and rebuilding a motorcycle

Food and Nutrition

Coaching 101

Chemistry in the Community

Advanced Quantitative Reasoning

Mental and Behavioral Excellence

New Traditions

The senior class of 2025 began a new tradition of purchasing and painting a personalized parking spot for the school year.

Welcome

New Faculty & Staff

New Students

We are excited to welcome the Class of 2028, which will be our largest current class in the school, along with 19 transfer students, and six international students from Spain and Brazil.

Kevin Bergdorf World Languages Teacher

Cari Foster Director of Mission & Formation

Bob Moffett Director of Technology Services

Terry Clark Visual Arts Teacher

Marty Hyland English Teacher

Lucy Pattison Mathematics Teacher

Joe Costello Theology Teacher

Tammy Konte Administrative Assistant

Kyle Shockey Social Studies Teacher

Chris Deighan Science Teacher

Gavin Lacher Mathematics Teacher

Denise Timms Attendance Secretary & Registrar

Creating Extraordinary Athletes

Matt Ludwig (‘15)

When Olympian Matt Ludwig chose to attend Lake Catholic, he had a life goal in mind: play football for the NFL. Little did he know that the encouragement and lessons he received from his coaches, teachers and parents would take him in a different direction – professional pole vaulter.

Ludwig’s accomplishments on the national and world pole vaulting stage are impressive: 2017 NCAA Champion, 2020 U.S. Indoor National Champion, 2021 Tokyo Olympian, 2023 Pan American Games Champion. While Matt was two places shy of qualifying for this year’s summer Olympic team, he vaulted the highest he ever had during the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

“Every competition, it’s always you against the bar – it’s not one athlete against the other. You want to know you came out and gave your best performance,” he said.

During his time at Lake Catholic, Matt was a multi-sport athlete, participating in football, wrestling and track and field events. He won a state championship in the 300 hurdles and 4x400 relay, but never made the top of the podium in pole vault. “At every stage of my career, I’ve never been the top dog. But I’ve always been working towards the top. Putting in the time. It’s a never-ending chase towards growth and improvement.”

His spark to try pole vaulting came from his mom – who had seen Matt’s sister use her gymnastics experience to thrive in the sport.

allowing the vaulter to get more energy out of the

as they go. “You

how to conquer your fear to thrive in the sport. To improve, you push the

Pole vault poles change in length and stiffness as athletes reach higher targets,

pole

practice upside down. You’re in the air. You have to be a bit of an adrenaline junkie and know

envelope and push the boundaries of what you’re capable of.”

Matt Ludwig with track & field coach, and current Athletic Director, Erik Schroeder

Matt enjoys sharing his story with students. He returned to Lake Catholic after the Tokyo Olympics to speak with students, and he regularly visits the football and wrestling teams to impart “nuggets of wisdom.” With a degree in biomechanical engineering from Akron University, Matt has also given college lectures on the biomechanics behind pole vaulting, explaining how math and physics are two concepts pole vaulters use regularly.

Matt had done several years of gymnastics prior to starting high school. His strength combined with his speed made him a good match for the sport. “I liked it. It was fun. My first year I was nothing special. I didn’t make it out of districts.”

Matt credits the encouragement of current Lake Catholic Principal Tom McKrill (‘07), current Athletic Director and head Track & Field coach Erik Schroeder, and former coach David Swift with fostering his education in the sport. Outside of athletics,

Matt learned some valuable lessons at Lake Catholic that also proved beneficial in professional athletics. “There was always an expectation for greatness in the classroom. We were encouraged to approach challenges with an open mind. We were given the freedom to take an idea and run with it. That open mindedness about the world – practice, fail, get better – serves people the rest of their lives.”

“You have to be a bit of an adrenaline junkie and know how to conquer your fear to thrive in the sport. To improve, you push the envelope and push the boundaries of what you’re capable of.”

– Matt Ludwig (‘15)

Professional pole vaulting is an international affair, and pole vaulters are a tight-knit community, looking out for one another. “We spend so much time together on the field: in a three-hour competition, you’re actually vaulting maybe three or four minutes at a time. You develop strong friendships. We empathize with one another on the battle and the struggle to reach our goals.”

The 2024 Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

On Saturday, September 14, the Lake Catholic community honored and celebrated seven inductees into the Athletic Hall of Fame

The inductees from L-R: Mark Sullivan (‘78), Football and Wrestling; Meghan Gaydos (‘98), Basketball; Dr. Sean Kelly (‘98), Cross Country and Track; Jessica Sabath (‘03), Volleyball; Rich Severino, Volleyball Coach; Dan Welly (‘81), Football, Basketball, and Baseball (represented by son Bobby Welly, mother Josephine Welly, and son Nick Welly); Sam Colacarro, Athletic Director

The ceremony was emceed by former teacher and coach Tim Armelli who presented each individual’s Hall of Fame induction video

The marching band, cheerleaders and student-athletes performed the Alma Mater and Fight Song to commemorate the ceremony and kick off additional festivities in the gym

Saturday, March 29, 2025

During the Gala, we will be honoring the newest Hall of

inductees: Paul Tesar (‘99), Mike Denk (‘83) and Mike DeSantis.

Honorees, their friends and families, and Lake Catholic students and staff continued the celebration and catching up in the gym

Current Lake Catholic athletes escorted each of the inductees in to the induction ceremony

Paul Tesar Mike Denk Mike DeSantis

Our Cougar Family Tree

The Kilroy Family

The Kilroy family tree sprouted from the love and faith of their parents, Bill and Rita Kilroy. They valued their own Catholic education at St. Joseph and Villa Angela high schools and wanted that experience for their three daughters, Kelly (Kilroy) Peterlin (‘89), Shelly (Kilroy) Rieple (‘90) and Katie (Kilroy) Trinetti (‘95). Lake Catholic provided them with fertile ground for growth.

The close-knit Kilroy daughters exude joy. They describe their family in a few key words: adventurous, athletic, fun, entertaining, loyal, competitive, familyoriented and, of course, Irish. “Every St. Patrick’s Day, our dad still takes 20 to 30 people in the RV to the parade,” Kelly said.

The sisters grew up in Willowick, attended St. Mary Magdalene grade school and moved to Mentor when Kelly and Shelly were in high school, to a house just down the street from Lake Catholic.

“We all wanted to go to a Catholic high school. I don’t think we even thought about going anywhere else,” recalled Shelly. They knew it was a priority for their parents, but also a sacrifice. They describe their family as “blue collar,” with their dad working as a painter until starting his own company in 1977, Kilroy Home Insulation.

“Our parents are both very religious. My mom could count on one hand in her 75 years of life how many times she has missed church! Luckily, she prays for all of us,” said Kelly with a smile.

CHERISHING MEMORIES

Katie still remembers the “Calm Before the Storm” tradition. “All during the school day, you couldn’t speak in the hallways. It

was very serious. You couldn’t talk, except during class. The hallways were silent, and people stuck to it. Then, at about 2:30 when it was time for the pep rally, everyone would erupt and cheer for the football game that night.”

Those were powerhouse years for Lake Catholic football, with state championships in 1991 and 1992. Athletes themselves, Shelly and Katie both played softball and volleyball, while Kelly was active on student council. “And I was the football team water girl!” she laughed.

“At Lake Catholic, it feels like you’re part of a family. You’re welcome and they want you there.”

– Kelly (Kilroy) Peterlin (‘89)

As part of the Spiritual Life committee, Katie remembers creating a giant tapestry of Jesus, led by Fr. Marty Polito, the school’s fulltime priest and campus minister. He has remained close to the Kilroy family, witnessing marriages and baptizing their children. “The Catholic faith was important to the school and going to chapel and retreats, similar to the Kairos retreats our own kids have gone to.”

Their Catholic faith remains a constant, with all three married in the Church, choosing John Carroll University for college and sending their own children to Catholic grade schools and Lake Catholic. Kelly has been a teacher with Mayfield City Schools for 31 years. Shelly worked in medical sales and as a substitute teacher and part-time Lake Catholic support staff while raising children.

The Kilroy family never misses a chance to support the Cougars, especially when their kids are playing, like when Ava (‘19) and Kennedy (‘21) helped the girls soccer team win the regional championship and return to the state Final Four. Pictured (L-R): Bill Kilroy, Rob Peterlin, Kelly Peterlin, Katie Trinetti, Ava Peterlin, Shelley Rieple, Ace Peterlin, Charlie Trinetti, Ted Rieple, Tessa Trinetti, Rita Kilroy, Frankie Trinetti, Guy Trinetti, and Kennedy Rieple.

Katie has been a teacher for 26 years and currently teaches second grade in Solon.

GROWING COUGARS OF THEIR OWN

The Kilroy sisters are grateful for their dedicated Lake Catholic teachers, including some who taught their own children. They value the discipline, respect for teachers and prayerful start to each day. “At Lake Catholic, it feels like you’re part of a family. You’re welcome and they want you there,” Kelly said.

“My middle son talks about how all the kids support each other, across grade levels and interests,” Katie said. “Whether they’re into sports or drama, they go to each other’s events. I think that has a lot to do with their Catholic education, learning to treat people with respect and honoring everybody regardless of their differences.”

Shelly describes a school where her kids were always involved. “They’d stay after school for events and loved playing soccer. They felt comfortable there, with everyone included.”

Between them, the Kilroy sisters have 11 children who either graduated from or currently attend Lake Catholic, creating an extended family of cousins and an easy way for “super fan” grandparents to attend all their events:

Given freedom to choose where they wanted to go, some shadowed and even registered at other schools, but all ultimately chose Lake Catholic for the sense of family, camaraderie and school spirit.

SEASONS OF CHANGE

The Kilroy sisters have a unique perspective on changes over the years at Lake Catholic.

The Kilroy Family The Kilroy Family

Although they miss the “good old days” of homemade cafeteria cookies, pizza turnovers and soft pretzels, and life lessons learned in Ursuline Sister Mercia’s religion class on marriage – they see many changes for the good.

Kelly appreciates the updated physical buildings, including locker rooms. Katie likes the photo murals in the cafeteria, representing the spectrum of Lake Catholic activities, from band and art to sports, clubs and more.

Another positive addition she notes is full-time strength and conditioning coach Jimmy King (’11), serving students in all sports. “A lot of schools don’t have that opportunity for a strength and lifting program to improve speed and agility.” She said King has already proven to be a dedicated coach, working kids hard and expecting accountability. She also likes the advances in technology education, including a robotics club, the Cougar Broadcasting Network and student Chromebooks.

Bill & Rita Kilroy

Shelly (Kilroy) Rieple (‘90)

Katie (Kilroy) Trinetti (‘95)

Kelly (Kilroy) Peterlin (‘89)

Tessa (‘27)

AJ (‘16)

Allie (‘18)

Ava (‘19)

Anna (‘27)

Frankie (‘25) Charlie (‘24)

Nicholas (‘17)

Nathan (‘19)

Kennedy (‘21)

Ace (‘25)

Meghan (Dolney) Delange (‘04)

Quietly contributing to the community. Raising a family. Building a career. Navigating a changing economy. Starting and running a business. For many Cougars, the years after high school include many of these common threads. For alumnae Meghan (Dolney) Delange, these threads have become the milestones that define her life.

Celebrating milestones – both small and large – is what Meghan does best. As the Operating Partner and Director of Experience for The Everly event venue in Mentor, Meghan loves helping people find joy in life’s

greatest events, whether it’s a wedding, baby shower or other gathering. For her, there’s nothing better than working with people to make them feel celebrated during the most important moments of their lives.

Meghan’s journey to owning and operating The Everly began like many post-highschool stories: in college. She attended Mercyhurst University in Erie, PA where she earned her bachelor’s degree in hospitality management. She moved to Chicago and worked at several large hotels managing events. When the economy took a downturn in 2008, she moved to Cincinnati. She later returned to Chicago, where she met her husband Adam, who also worked in the hospitality industry. After deciding to start a family, they returned to Cleveland. Today, they have two young boys, Griffin (5) and Connor (2).

“My husband and I share a lot of the same values when it comes to what we do professionally and how we raise our family,” said Meghan, who works alongside Adam to run The Everly. “We both have a strong sense of community and service, and we bring that into our business. We want to do things with integrity and do things right. We want to provide people with a service that’s going to make them feel good when they leave. A lot of that integrity comes from my education.”

Hard work and resiliency are also traits Meghan learned through her Catholic education. Both she and her husband were working in hospitality when COVID restrictions impacted their

Meghan alongside her husband and business partner, Adam, in front of the plant wall in their event space, The Everly.

Meghan was involved in many school activities, including track

“We had so much fun planning the reunion that we are still meeting up. Even after all these years, it’s amazing how much we all have in common. That’s one of the things I’ve always loved about Lake Catholic – you always feel at home.”

– Meghan (Dolney) Delange (‘04)

jobs. Despite the challenges, Meghan and Adam had big dreams for their future. In late February 2021, the couple met with Steve Passov, who owned the property in Mentor that would become The Everly. “I met with Steve on a Monday, had my business plan to him on a Wednesday, and by Friday we were moving forward,” she said. The facility opened on May 1, 2021 and hosted its first wedding later that month. Meghan did, “everything but bartending.” From cleaning bathrooms to setting up table service, Meghan spent the first year bringing her vision to life. In 2022, Adam joined full time, and the couple now has a team of several permanent and contract employees.

“We want to make sure our business is true to us. Even our children are there ‘helping.’ We want this to be something we are proud of. We work hard to treat our employees and our clients with compassion and integrity. Planning events can be stressful for

people. The first thing I say to our clients is, ‘What is one thing I can take off your plate?’ I want them to feel the joy, not the stress.”

Meghan attributes this level of compassion and fellowship to the retreats she attended while she was a student at Lake Catholic, as well as her time on the school’s track team. “During our retreats, people would open up, and you’d learn more about the struggles they were facing. With track, we all had the

the day – you’d be blindfolded or not be able to use a hand; something to simulate a disability. I think about those experiences often.”

Meghan recently helped plan her class’s 20th reunion, reconnecting with classmates she hadn’t seen since high school. While she loves hosting events at The Everly, it was special to have this gathering at Lake Catholic, where everyone could reflect on how much had changed – and how much had stayed the same. “We had so much fun planning the reunion that we are still meeting up. Even after all these years, it’s amazing how much we all have in common. That’s one of the things I’ve always loved about Lake Catholic – you always feel at home.”

Meghan, Adam and their sons Griffin and Connor and dog Frankie

The 2004 Reunion Planning Committee from L-R: Ashley (Loeser) Staff, Meghan (Dolney) Delange, Pamela (Bryndal) Schneider, Jacqueline Gallagher

Alumni Updates

1970s

Christine Was (‘79) was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army.

1980s

Joe Monahan (‘81) is leaving Meister Media Worldwide after 34 years, where he was most recently the President and COO. He is leaving to launch a new venture, Rural Traction Network, a marketing and digital services company focused on connecting businesses to rural America.

Bill Weaver (‘84) and his wife Dawn welcomed their first grandchild, Quinn David Searfoss, on February 10, 2024. Quinn is the son of Bill’s oldest daughter Kayla and her husband Trent.

1990s

Gina (Randazzo) Stenger (‘96) recently celebrated her son’s wedding. Zach Stenger married Alexis Ross on Saturday, August 17.

2000s

Sean Saari (‘02), a partner at Marcum LLC, spent some time with the crew at Money Matters TV. He discussed the upcoming change in the lifetime estate and gift tax exemption amounts at the end of 2025 as well as related valuation/tax planning considerations.

2010s

Melissa “Missy” Spahar (‘10) was inducted into John Carroll University’s Athletic Hall of Fame on Friday, October 18.

Karly (Bukovec) Scott (‘11) and husband, Derryn, welcomed baby Nora Marjorie Scott into the world in September. Also celebrating their new grandchild are grandparents Don (‘81) and Laura (Trefzger) Bukovec (‘83).

Mark Baniewicz (‘13) and wife Melissa welcomed Mark Alfred Baniewicz into the world in December 2023.

In November, Rachel Gurley (‘14) is celebrating her one-year anniversary as a Judicial Law Clerk for the Honorable LaShonda A. Hunt Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Gina (Randazzo) Stenger (‘96) (left) at her son’s wedding in August 2024.

Maccoy Phillips (‘18) (third from the left)

Kasey Konte (‘16) is John Carroll University’s new Associate Athletic Director for Operations following stops at Case Western Reserve University and the Lake County Captains.

Ryan Borkey (‘17) and Taylor Sharrits (‘17) were married in June of this year.

William (Billy) Skoch (‘17) was awarded Crain’s Cleveland Business “20 In Their 20s 2024” award.

Maccoy Phillips (‘18) was named to one of the two Case Classic Competition Teams from the University of Akron’s School of Law.

Caitlin Kotek (‘19) was recently promoted to Associate Relationship Manager for Key Private Bank.

2020s

Ella Hadley (‘21), who is a senior member of the women’s soccer team at The University of Akron, was named a Student-Athlete of the Week by the Akron Department of Athletics. Hadley led the Zips to two wins, including scoring the game-winning goal against Oakland.

In Memoriam

We remember alumni, faculty & staff, family & friends from the Lake Catholic Community who have passed on from this life into God’s loving arms.

ALUMNI

Marianne (Edeleman)

Forrai (‘75)

Kevin Klemencic (‘75)

John Roddy (‘80)

Lisa DeRespiris-Russ (‘82)

Douglas Mucci (‘83)

Joseph Znidarsic (‘83)

Sean Hayek (‘98)

Brendan Bartel (‘05)

Andrew Pasquino (‘05)

Christopher Bourdess (‘20)

FRIENDS OF LAKE CATHOLIC

Geraldine Quick

Carl J. Viviani

BECOME A CLASS AMBASSADOR

Friendships built in the halls of Lake Catholic extend well beyond the time here as a student. Class Ambassadors are some of the catalysts that help make this happen. They are representatives from each graduating class who keep classmates connected to Lake Catholic updates, activities and events.

Class Ambassadors…

Communicate with classmates on a regular basis, either via letter, phone, text, e-mail, or social media.

Reach out to classmates to collect email addresses and current contact information.

Locate “lost” members of your class.

Keep classmates up-to-date on school events and news.

Encourage participation in alumni activities (i.e. Homecoming, WeGiveCatholic, the annual Class Challenge, Annual Gala, etc.).

Introduce additional ways to keep your class connected such as creating newsletters, setting up a group Facebook page, or collecting photos for an online gallery.

Serve as a member of the reunion planning committee.

Promote class participation and contribution to the annual fund.

We are looking for ambassadors for the following classes: 1977, 1979, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010, 2020, 2021, 2023. If you are interested in becoming a Class Ambassador, visit the Class Ambassador Project page of the Alumni section on lakecatholic.org or scan the QR code to complete the application form

Ella Hadley (‘21)

Cougar Reunions & Alumni Events

Class of 1974 – 50th Reunion

September 21, 2024

“Lake Catholic’s first 50-year alumni class reunion was a tremendous success! The day started with Mass in the school chapel, followed by refreshments and a tour of the school. Celebrating Mass together was a great reminder of our common faith that binds us as brothers and sisters in Christ. Touring the school brought back many great memories, and seeing the addition of colorful student artwork was very inspiring. The reunion culminated with a reception of approximately 100 alumni, guests and teachers who reminisced about our days at Lake Catholic and what we have experienced over the past 50 years. We also took time to honor those classmates who are no longer with us and to thank the Reunion Committee that made this day so special. This was not just a class reunion, but a family reunion.” – John Daley

Class of 1984 – 40th Reunion

September 21, 2024

“As usual, what a great turnout for the Class of 84! We had a beautiful night at our favorite spot, Longo’s Patio in Mentor. Thank you Debbie (‘84) and Joe for your wonderful hospitality. It was wonderful to catch up and see where our lives have taken us; some still raising children, some enjoying life as grandparents and some retired and moving onto the next chapter. There were a lot of laughs. We missed those who couldn’t make it, but we are always looking forward to the next time we get to meet.” – Dana Baca

Class of 1979 –45th Reunion

July 13, 2024

“I had a great time catching up with some people that I hadn’t seen since we graduated 45 years ago! And I was the only one whose Prom date was present!!” – Carol Carriere

Class of 1989 – 35th Reunion

“The class of 1989 sure relived their high school years at their reunion. What an absolute joy it was to gather with classmates, catching up and sharing stories from the past. We laughed, cried, honored the classmates we’ve lost, and had an unforgettable time. We were reminded once again: once a Cougar, always a Cougar. We also realized we don’t have to wait for a “big year” to get together. More reunions are in the works.” – Molly Gebler

Class of 1994 – 30th Reunion

August 24, 2024

“It is hard to believe it has been 30 years! It was great catching up with classmates. Principal Tom McKrill was incredibly generous with his time and gave us a tour of the school. I live out-of-town and haven’t been back to Lake in many years, so it was wonderful to see all of the exciting things that are going on at the school.

– Matthew Silversten

Class of 2004 – 20th Reunion

August 3, 2024

“The Class of 2004 reunion was amazing! It’s wonderful that so many classmates connected after 20 years, and it really felt like no time had passed. The money we raised through both direct donations and a raffle went towards a scholarship in memory of Erin (Gaydos) Carlisle and Mollie (Stanic) Hoar, which added such a meaningful touch to the event. Planning for the 25th reunion will be exciting!!”

– Pamela Schneider

Class of 2014 – 10th Reunion

“It was great! We had a pretty good turn out. It was awesome to see classmates that I haven’t seen in years and see what life is like. Some people even traveled pretty far to make it.” – Corey Regovich