Striving Forward - Spring 2024

Striving Forward

School

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 fourth edition of Striving Forward, the magazine for and about the Lake Catholic community.

As I come to the completion of my first year as president, I am grateful to have been so warmly welcomed into this community. I’ve witnessed a community full of passion and pride, and it is my honor to move forward the mission of Lake Catholic High School in the years to come.

I’ve enjoyed getting to know our students as well. They are mature, studious young people who thrive in this dynamic learning environment alongside our committed faculty and staff. I am inspired by the expression of their artistic talents through our outstanding art program, watching them grow spiritually through Kairos retreats and challenge themselves on the field of play as they learn to work together through adversity and toward victory.

To continue improving the student experience and remain competitive in the landscape of Catholic education, we launched our strategic planning initiative in January which focuses on eight key areas: Academics, Advancement, Catholic Identity, Enrollment, Facilities/ Technology, Finance, Governance, and Student Life. We are diving deep into the data and incorporating the input of hundreds in our community to build a comprehensive strategy that will set the course and drive much of our activity over the next decade. We are excited to share more details as we proceed!

Additionally, this summer we will begin a $1M construction project to completely renovate our boys and girls locker rooms. These spaces haven’t changed since the school opened 50 years ago! We will create a collegiate locker room feel for all our teams to utilize during their respective seasons. With the full support and resources of the Diocese of Cleveland, we will begin the project at the end of the school year while we actively engage our community for the remaining support. We look forward to sharing our new space this fall at our Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony on September 14.

Today’s modern Catholic high schools require strategic direction, academic excellence, robust enrollment, and a passionate community. We are so fortunate to have alumni and friends who believe in the mission of Lake Catholic High School. Thank you for your passion and support. Go Cougars!

John Morabeto President

What’s Inside

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY 23 – JULY 26, 2024 2024 Summer Camps

MAY 25, 2024 Graduation

JULY 12, 2024 Alumni Association Golf Outing

AUGUST 23, 2024 First Day of School

SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 Athletic Hall of Fame

SEPTEMBER 17, 2024 Athletic Giving Day

SEPTEMBER 27 – 28 Strategic Plan Goal Writing Workshop

OCTOBER 4 – 6, 2024 Homecoming Weekend

Striving Forward is a publication for and about the Lake Catholic Community.

Editor in Chief: Matt Trem

Managing Editor: Regi Strauss (‘05) Designer: Jennifer Minning Grimes

Contributing Writers

Matt Collister (p18)

Gay Eyerman (p10, 20)

Julie Schuler (p24) Lake Catholic Staff

Photography Wetzler’s Studios

Matt Shiffler Photography Katie Sowko (‘24) Lake Catholic Staff & Community

Printing & Distribution Consolidated Solutions

What’s Happening in Cougar Country

PERFORMING ARTS

The Performing Arts Department had busy winter and spring seasons.

The fall production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow was a rousing success. America’s first great ghost story, Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow follows the quirky and superstitious antics of schoolmaster Ichabod Crane, who is haunted by the dreaded Headless Horseman. This imaginative adaptation stays true to the world that Irving created in this American gothic tale but adds a lyrical quality that further enhances the humor, magic and terror. The show starred Joe Powaski (‘24) (as Ichabod Crane), Dominic Orlando (‘24) (as Brom Bones), Johnny Hoose (‘26) (as Dirk Vanderflat) and Liv Switalski (‘24) (as Katrina Van Tassel).

In the spring, the department put on Guys and Dolls Set in the Manhattan of Damon Runyon’s short stories, it tells of conman Nathan Detroit’s (played by Joe Powaski) efforts to find new life for his illegal, but notorious, craps game. When their trusty venue is discovered by the police, Nathan has to find a new home for his craps game quickly - but he doesn’t have the dough to secure the one location he finds. Enter Sky Masterson (Dominic Orlando), a high-rolling gambler willing to take on any honest bet with a high enough reward attached.

Nathan bets Sky that he can’t take the “doll” of Nathan’s choosing to Havana, Cuba, with him on a date. When Sky agrees to the bet, Nathan chooses uptight Evangelist Sergeant Sarah Brown (Kathryn Ridler (‘24)), head of Broadway’s Save-a-Soul Mission. Sky thinks he’s been duped, but he’s in for even more of a surprise when his efforts to woo Sarah are so successful that he falls in love with her himself! Meanwhile, Nathan’s girlfriend and nightclub performer, Adelaide (Makenna Bretz (‘24)), laments that they’ve been engaged for fourteen years.

This is the fourth time Lake Catholic has performed Guys and Dolls, with the previous shows in 1974, 1988 and 1999.

Not to be outdone by the theatrical performances, the department also put on its Christmas Concert, Winter Concert and Spring Concert. Featured at the Winter and Spring concerts were the LC Jazz Band, the Concert Choir, LC Singers and the LC Concert Band. All of these ensembles, except the Jazz Band, also performed at the Christmas Concert.

The Drumline helped kick off the annual March 4 Meals fundraiser for the Lake County Council on Aging at Great Lakes Mall in mid-March; and then the LC Jazz Band performed at the mall in late April.

Guys and Dolls

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

ADMISSIONS

The admissions department put on quite a showing at the beginning of the calendar year. In early February, emails and letters were sent to officially accepted 8th graders and transfer students. Current students, faculty and staff also dropped off “LC Bound” yard signs to each of our newest Cougars.

A month later, the school celebrated most of its newest students at the first of its four Registration Days. It was a day of selecting classes and admissions paperwork — in addition to a party. While a DJ played music, new students and families were welcomed by current students, coaches and other club officials to enjoy breakfast in the atrium or shop in the Spirit Store for new uniforms and spirit gear.

As of this Striving Forward’s print deadline, those accepted come from 33 different schools in 22 cities. Fifty-five percent of the newest incoming students are female and 45% are male.

The most impressive number is that the total number of students accepted is up 41% compared to this time last year.

The total number of students accepted is up 41% compared to this time last year.

Winter Concert

Drumline

What’s Happening in Cougar Country

CAMPUS MINISTRY

Members of the Classes of 2024 and 2025, led by student leaders, spent time on the Kairos Retreats over the past few months. They used their retreats to hear each other’s stories, consider their lives and experiences, and think about who they want to be in the future. Kairos is a time to reflect on one’s life, from Jesus’s perspective, and in light of the Gospel.

Students from the Class of 2026, through their religion classes, attended their Sophomore Class Retreat in Geneva, OH. With the retreat theme – Finding God in the Still Small Voice – taken from 1 Kings 19, the students took full advantage of spending the day in God’s creation on the beautiful grounds of Camp Koinonia. As part of the day-long retreat, students heard witnesses from teachers and peers on differing ways to experience God, participated in Adoration, played games and icebreakers, hiked and creek walked during free time, held small group discussions in the woods, and took time to journal quietly with God by the waterfall near the heart of the camp.

Students participated in our Pallbearer Ministry. This special ministry allows them to serve others while reinforcing the consistent ethic of respect for life from conception to natural death. Our students respond to requests from families in need of pallbearers for wakes, funerals and graveside services. Humbled and honored, they pray with the families and act as representatives of our greater Catholic family with respect and compassion.

Students continued to provide cooked dinners to those in need through our monthly Meal Ministry. On the last Tuesday of each month, they prepare 60 hot meals for Project Hope for the Homeless in Painesville, OH.

Kairos Retreats

Sophomore Class Retreat

Pallbearer Ministry

ATHLETICS

Coming off a successful fall season, which included the volleyball team’s state championship, the boys soccer team’s state semifinal appearance, the football team’s deep playoff run, and senior Kelly Ward’s crosscountry state berth, the winter season programs carried on the school’s successful ways.

The Wrestling Team showcased excellence throughout the year, finishing with an impressive state performance. The team wrapped up the season with five state placers, including Chance Wuhr (‘27), Tommy Slack (‘27), Danny Zmorowski (‘27), Joey Romano (‘24), Parker Pikor (‘24) securing a 4th-place team finish. Notably, three of the five placers were freshmen highlighting the team’s promising future.

For the second year in a row, the Swimming & Diving Team sent double-digit state qualifiers to the state meet. The boys team had the most successful season in school history. After finishing as district runners-up, they finished seventh in the state on the strength of a third-place finish in the 200 free relay and a fouth place finish in the 400 free relay. Two of the girls relays finished ninth and 11th, which was the highest placing for the girls team since 2017. In all, the two teams finished with 12 All-Ohio swimmers and divers — Zoe Pesek (‘24), Carley Dondorfer (‘24), Theresa Lazanich (‘24), Holly Suponcic (‘25), Izzy Trem (‘25), Parker DiCello (‘24), Sutton Pikor (‘24), Tino Perkovic (‘25), Darren Bittner (‘26), Caleb Ortman (‘26), Owen Pesek (‘26), Evan Ream (‘26). The girls team also won their third straight conference title while the boys team repeated as conference champs

The Indoor Track Team team sent three athletes to the state meet, all of whom had a great showing. Congratulations to Wyatt Kaufman (‘24) (throws), Claire Duricky (‘24) (6th in the 60m hurdles and 11th in the 400m), and Kelly Ward (‘24) (3200).

Wuhr

Girls 200 free relay

Swimming & Diving

Indoor Track

Boys 400 free relay

Boys 200 free relay

Girls 400 free relay

Boys Swimming & Diving team

Slack Zmorowski Romano Pikor

What’s Happening in Cougar Country

SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS

Theresa Lazanich (‘24) has turned her summer job from the past two years as a caddie at Canterbury Country Club into four years’ worth of full tuition and room and board. Theresa was named an Evans Scholarship winner at the end of January, and recently decided to use that scholarship at The Ohio State University.

The Evans Scholarship is a full tuition and housing college scholarship for high-achieving caddies. According to the scholarship website, to qualify caddies must meet the requirements of having a strong caddie record, excellent academics, demonstrated financial need and outstanding character.

“I was super excited when I found out that I won the Evans Scholarship,” Theresa said. “And now that I know I’m going to my first-choice school (Ohio State), it’s even more exciting. I want to be a physician’s assistant, which will mean extra schooling. So that’s a huge financial commitment. And being the youngest of six kids, this is a huge help for me and my parents.”

Evans Scholars can be found at 24 universities nationwide. Their students live and work together in a community, earning a reputation for scholastic achievement and excellence in community service.

The Lake Catholic Alumni Association awarded two legacy students from the Class of 2027 its renewable scholarship. Congratulations to Connor Brugh (son of Melissa (Youmell) and Dan Brugh, both from the Class of 1997) and Justin Haught (son of Brandi (Serger) Haught, from the Class of 2002).

Any current freshman student who has a parent, grandparent, guardian or aunt/uncle who attended Lake Catholic was eligible to apply. The scholarship, valued at $1,000, is renewable each year while the student is enrolled and in good standing at Lake Catholic.

The Lake Catholic Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship celebrates the legacy of being a Lake Catholic Cougar and rewards those who demonstrate: a commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom; a spirit of respect and compassion; personal integrity; and a willingness to serve others.

Lake Catholic celebrated 39 eighth graders, from 17 different schools, who were awarded the Cougar Elite Scholarship — awarded to those who scored in the top third of all the students who took the placement test for scholarship consideration.

Twenty-two of the award recipients attended the scholarship celebration and dinner at Lake Catholic. The new Cougar Elite Scholars and their families enjoyed a catered dinner before a prayer service in the school chapel.

After a welcome by President John Morabeto, the prayer service was led by Deacon Tom Shetina and included readings by some of our current Cougar Elite Scholars [Michael Barnes (‘27), Will Brown (‘26), Kendall Pikor (‘26), Max Barnes (‘25), and Maria Gallo (‘25)] that focused on Jesus as a teacher. Deacon Tom reminded everyone that we are constantly learning and putting our trust in Jesus to follow his teachings to learn our path.

Caroline Brown (’24) and Theresa Lazanich (’24) each spoke about what the scholarship meant to them and what their time at Lake Catholic has been like.

Scholarship plaques were awarded to each winner by President Morabeto and Principal Tom McKrill (‘07).

Lake Catholic Science Department Chair Chris Ronzi received a $2,646 grant from Toshiba America Foundation (TAF). The money will be put toward the rebirth of the school’s vivarium. It’s the second grant Ronzi received from Toshiba.

The space will incorporate (two) hydroponic gardens to educate the Environmental Chemistry class as well as Biology students. The two hydroponic towers will serve multiple purposes and be used in various student lessons. Immediately, they will be able to grow different types of produce that will be then be provided to the Meal Ministry to cook hot meals for local shelters.

STRATEGIC PLAN

Lake Catholic has begun a strategic planning process designed to set our future course for the next five to 10 years.

The school has put together a steering committee, chaired by alumni Mike Creadon (‘81) and Mike Denk (‘83). They lead a group of aobut 25 committee members who have been split into eight domains of focus - academics, advancement, Catholic identity, enrollment, factilities & technology, finance, governance, and student life.

The process kicked off in early January, as the committee and others from the Lake Catholic administration met with Mike Loyet, a partner at Partners in Mission — the consulting and professional education firm hired by Lake Catholic to help with the process. It was there that Loyet laid out the process, including the timing, milestones, and ultimate goals.

Since then, a survey was sent out to alumni, students, faculty, staff, and community members with questions covering each domain. Those results, along with the comments from an in-person roundtable discussion with current parents, former parents, alumni and faculty, have helped the domain leaders hone in on specific issues for more research and conversations. In September, a panel of 50-60 community members will gather to pare down each domain to just three to four issues to be addressed in the final strategic plan. The plan should be released in early 2025.

MOCK TRIAL

Our Mock Trial team competed in the regional competition in late January. Although the team ended up losing both of its competitions, two seniors – Haley Horen (‘24) and Isaiah Tyree (‘24) –were honored for their part in the competition. Haley was named an Outstanding Lawyer in the morning competition, while Isaiah was named an Outstanding Witness for the afternoon trial.

The team was composed of Grace McCalligan (‘24), Haley Horen, Kendall Pikor (‘26), Allison Komosa (‘24), Gianna Koenig (‘24), Joe Powaski (‘24), Isaiah Tyree, Carley Dondorfer (‘24), Taylor Norris-Reynolds (‘26), and Hazel Walker (‘26). The team was led by social studies teacher Mr. Erich Schulz, who was assisted by alum James Aveni (‘85), who is a partner at Ranallo & Aveni LLC.

Mock Trial offers an innovative approach to learning the law and how our legal system functions. Students participate in an original, unscripted simulated trial written by attorneys. Students argue both sides of the case in real courtrooms across the state. The state finals are held in the Ohio Statehouse and the winner advances to the national competition.

Each year volunteer attorneys create an original case around a current constitutional issue important to students. This year’s case was State of Buckeye v. Ash Espinosa. In this case students examined the history and application of the Excessive Fines Clause of the Eighth Amendment. Specifically, this case looks at excessive fines in the context of property forfeiture resulting from a crime.

Unforgettable: Inaugural Class of 1974

There’s something special about the Lake Catholic High School class of 1974. They were the first graduates of a brand-new school, upperclassmen for all four years, and pioneers who established a warm and welcoming culture that endures to this day.

To celebrate the 50 year anniversary of the school’s first graduating class, we sat down with ’74 alumni Larry Klco and Sue Epaves Karel to learn more about their lives, memories of Lake Catholic and dreams for the school’s future.

Although they represent a snapshot of the 221 students who first walked through our doors in 1970, they express common experiences and a shared gratitude among those who believe, “Once a Cougar, Always a Cougar.”

FORMATIVE YEARS

Larry grew up in Perry in a working-class family with nine brothers and a sister. He attended Catholic grade school, but his parents couldn’t afford high school tuition. “I originally wanted to go to public school, have fun and not study hard, but I toured the school with my parents before it opened and chose Lake Catholic. It just seemed really exciting and cool to be an upperclassman all four years. I worked summers to pay for tuition, which was possible back then at around $275.”

Working on a neighbor’s farm, Larry fell in love with farming. After high school he studied at the Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster where he met his future wife, Tina. They bought farmland in Perry, worked at a factory to supplement the farm income, and homeschooled their four children.

The couple eventually became full-time operators of the successful Rainbow Farms. To this day, Larry credits Lake Catholic as a formative influence on his education, strong Christian faith and tireless work ethic.

Laughter and smiles came easily for Larry Klco and Sue Epaves Karel when they were interviewed in the Lake Catholic Media Center (or as they knew it in 1974, the library). They shared memories of events, friends, sports, teachers, their faith and more as they reflected on formative years that helped shape their future lives.

A hallway that has stood the test of time - students in between classes in the main throughway in the newly built Lake Catholic High School.

“My favorite memories are the classes I took and the stimulation they provided. I felt prepared for the future. I was already a product of a K-8 Catholic education and Lake Catholic reinforced that faith. I hope it continues for another 50 years.”

construction workers ate off the same carts we did.”

That experience sparked camaraderie, where friendships flourished and cliques seemed nonexistent. Sports generated immediate school spirit, with three booster buses showing up for freshmen football games and everyone joining in to support fledging players who became forerunners in Lake Catholic’s future legacy of powerhouse teams.

Sue has been married to her husband Jim for 45 years. Their four children attended Lake Catholic, where Sue was an active volunteer and summer basketball coach. As a teen, she was a skilled player herself, but there were no girls’ sports at Lake Catholic before the historic 1972 Title IX amendment.

Sue remains grateful for the lifelong value of her Lake Catholic education, especially writing skills learned in English classes. When her children were young, she earned income working as a freelance writer for The News-Herald for 22 years, and now uses her college accounting degree as an auditor with the Ohio Office of Unemployment.

She treasures memories of those exciting early years at Lake Catholic. “Everything was new, and everybody had a pioneering spirit. We didn’t have a history to define us. We were the history!”

CREATING MEMORIES IN A NEW SCHOOL

In the 1950s and ‘60s, Catholic schools were booming in the Cleveland area, with Lake County families sending their children to Benedictine, Cathedral Latin and St. Joseph high schools. Eager for an option closer to home, Lake Catholic was the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream.

– John Mullowney (‘74)

But with construction delays, the first freshmen class started their 1970 school year in Mentor Shore Junior High before moving to the new building in March of 1971. Sue remembers it as a great adventure.

“The day we moved into H-Wing, the ceiling tiles weren’t even in and there were no lockers! They just had coat racks and you schlepped everything with you. They brought food in for students and the

“Of course we were the new guys in athletics, so they’d say, ‘who is Lake Catholic?,’” reminiscences Larry. “But then we’d come in and beat ‘em up. It was always fun because we were winning.”

The 1974 football team, only the third in the program’s existence, may not have won the state title but achieved a feat almost equally impressive: a 10-0 record for the season.

Larry joined the wrestling team, and by his senior year they were North District champions. “The matches were always jammed, and it was crazy. Our coach would

The athletic legacies of Lake Catholic began with the founding classes. Pictured here is the 1974 varsity team, tackling its way to victory.

“There was a Catholic spirit. That chapel was always open. You could be cutting through and just stop in, sit awhile and spend a minute with God. The Christian philosophy was integrated in everything. I don’t think I realized it until I was older.”

– Sue Epaves Karel

“My favorite memory is the Little Theatre Club started by Mrs. Holderer. I love that the class of 1974 established our mascot, school anthem and so many other “firsts!”

I hope Lake Catholic stands apart from other schools by demanding high standards from students and teachers – in discipline, academic excellence, sports and the arts.”

– Lois Reid Folino (‘74)

sit on the corner, lean his chair back and give out a fun scream. The place went nuts!”

Sue laughs remembering football coach Tom Ward having to teach health class, where girls badgered him to explain football plays, charting out Xs and Os and the positions of their favorite players like Paul Maloney.

During all four years, Larry took art classes with the young Ursuline Sister Fidelis (Diane Therese Pinchot, OSU, MFA). “I loved art, and she made it exciting. You could tell she had a passion for it.” He and his wife remain friends with Sr. Diane, who has her own art gallery in the Collinwood neighborhood.

From organizing the first proms to pulling off the best senior pranks (miraculously moving all the cafeteria furniture to the school’s rooftop), Sue describes students who created a joyful community and a sense of empathy. “At a Catholic school, you meet people from different backgrounds. I think it helps form you, and the quality of the education is huge. That makes a big difference in how successful you are in life.”

She also saw how faith was a critical part of school culture. “There was a Catholic spirit. That chapel was always open. You could be cutting through and just stop in, sit awhile and spend a minute with God. The Christian philosophy was integrated in everything. I don’t think I realized it until I was older.”

“We learned the tenets of Christian faith at Lake Catholic,” reflects Larry. “To love people, forgive them, not harbor resentment and anger. If you can work that into your life, life is so much happier.”

That faith deepened as Larry got married and raised a family. “If I didn’t believe in Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I would have nothing. Faith was always there, in the classes and the retreats. That held the whole group together.”

“I have so many memories and dear friends I will never forget. As a Catholic school, it kept me believing in my faith. I hope they continue the traditions we started. I’m proud to be ‘Once a Cougar, ALWAYS a Cougar!’”

THE FUTURE GENERATIONS

Sue and Larry see marked changes in Lake Catholic student life today – from ever-present cell phones to higher tuition costs and a changing work ethic in young people. But they also see advantages they never had, including more opportunities to utilize technology to learn, better college and career guidance and greater cultural diversity.

With three grandchildren, Sue hopes to continue her family’s legacy at Lake Catholic. “I really want them to have this experience, the feeling of belonging, in a place where everyone can try what they want to do and be what they want to be, where they learn and experience empathy. That was very much part of the culture here for me and my own kids. I really enjoyed being a Lake Catholic parent.”

Larry hopes the school’s Catholic identity remains strong. “In my four years, I spent a lot of time in that little chapel, and we had a lot of emphasis on faith. That was at a critical point for me. I left and went to college and a big new world but I still had those basics of Christianity.”

– Lynette Adams Cogley ‘(74)

50TH CLASS REUNION

Larry remembers someone in high school telling him to enjoy those years because time flies after graduation. “Now I’ve got 13 grandkids, and I’m going to celebrate my 50th high school reunion? That’s crazy!”

At the 45th reunion, Sue had fun connecting with classmates she hadn’t known well. “It didn’t really matter that none of my best friends were there. We just reconnected and did a little bit of memory lane catch-up. We all had a wonderful time.”

She remembers former Lake Catholic president Chuck Roman coining the phrase

All 1974 alumni are invited to reconnect at the 50th reunion on Saturday, September 21 from 5 to 10 p.m. at Sol in downtown Willoughby

Watch for details on the events page of lakecatholic.org/alumni or email the planning committee with questions at lakecatholic1974@gmail.com.

“Once a Cougar, Always a Cougar” when her kids were in high school and thinking it was perfect – because it’s true. “Our class, we were the original Cougars. None of my other friends, neighbors or associates speak with as much fondness about their high school as my classmates. Even my husband is a Cougar wanna-be!”

An Evening Under the Stars

THE 40 TH ANNUAL LAKE CATHOLIC GALA

All of our guests were greeted by two Champagne Ladies, who met everyone while donning a champagne filled skirt. Thank you to alumni Jenna Gehring (‘11) and Brenda Harriss (‘76) who entertained everyone during cocktail hour.

Members of the Lake Catholic dance team showed off their moves as part of a surprise performance, highlighting just a few of our talented students.

Jeanne (Weybrect) Ebner (‘77), Judge John P. O’Donnell (‘80) and Judge William W. Weaver were honored and officially inducted into the Hall of Excellence.

Encore! Encore! For the second year in a row, Makenna Bretz (‘24) and Dominic Orlando (‘24), accompanied by Performing Arts Chairman Scott Posey, wowed the crowd with a sterling rendition of “I See Stars.”

Alumni of all ages enjoyed a great Evening Under the Stars, including Lauren Burkholder, Maddie Lough, Nicole Jarem and Liz Turk, all from the Class of 2016.

Some of our student volunteers are shown here with one of the live auction prizes, a Goldador puppy donated by the Boys Basketball Team. The puppy was auctioned off to a loving family, which also won puppy training, a vet visit and a basket of goodies.

In addition to the live and silent auction, select items were available in a ticket raffle. Students delivered the winners their prizes, including this bourbon barrel!

At the end of the program, all alumni, student volunteers, faculty and staff were invited to the dance floor to close the evening with the singing of the Lake Catholic Alma Mater.

40th Annual Lake Catholic

The New Faces & Spaces of Lake Catholic

This summer, a $1M construction project to completely renovate the boys and girls locker rooms will commence. The 50-year-old locker rooms will get a new collegiate look with everything from new lockers, showers and lighting to upgraded seating and coaching areas. Concept rendering shown.

The Performing Arts Department now boasts a beautiful grand piano that once belonged to muscian, composer and music educator, Dr. John Petrone. Petrone’s wife and daughter, Diane Petrone and Jenny Miroglotta, donated the piano.

Beginning this fall, Lake Catholic will begin restoration work on the Hall of Excellence, including building out a new Athletic Hall of Fame. The Hall of Excellence, started in 1990 by a group of committed staff, faculty and alumni, was designed to celebrate alumni and individuals with ties to the school who have made large contributions in a variety of areas. Concept rendering shown.

Phase 2 of the Media Center refresh was completed over Christmas break. Changes included a new entryway, library area and the addition of more social gathering spaces.

New Faculty & Staff

Tina Brewster Director of Transportation

Diana Fogarty Admissions Director

Karen Chrobak Tutor

Tess Connolly (’16) Head Volleyball Coach

Joe Costello Theology Teacher

Tim Rolik Head Girls Soccer Coach

Chris Deighan Tutor

Reverend Joshua Trefney Chaplain

Creating Extraordinary Scholars Developing the Developers

Preparing our students to excel in a future we can only imagine means constantly evaluating and evolving the ways we teach.

In that spirit, the Lake Catholic faculty is taking part in a professional development process led by Maghen Frindt, Dean of Academics.

The process is based on a model from the Teacher Clarity Playbook, a learning guide designed to enhance educators’ clarity in instruction, fostering deeper student understanding and engagement.

A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH

February 28 might have been a day off for LC students, but it was definitely a work day for the faculty. They met at the school for a working session focused on refining lesson plans based on the Teacher Clarity model. This session was just one in a series of facultywide and department-specific activities.

Art teacher Carolina Kane

“Teacher Clarity is a data-driven approach that breaks down standards so teachers can systematically get greater clarity on what they’re teaching,” says Maghen. “It encourages teachers to really focus on the

essentials of a lesson and, in turn, provide greater clarity to students so they feel more engaged and have a better sense that what’s happening in the classroom is meaningful.”

“We’re working toward departments getting together at least once a week to review classroom results and tweak lessons as part of this process.”

– Maghen Frindt, Dean of Academics

The English Department - (from left to right) Jen Fox, Meg Bronson, Rachel Fier, and Tabitha Halcomb — has worked together with the Teacher Clarity Playbook in an effort to refine each class’s lesson plans.

Maghen added: “We’re working toward departments getting together at least once a week to review classroom results and tweak lessons as part of this process.”

“I see the goal as becoming more efficient in the classroom and better able to get students to understand the material at a deeper level,” said Melissa Grai, science teacher. “The process is forcing us to go through learning standards and make sure students know what they have to accomplish in class. And this expectation translates to the next level, whether it’s college, trade school or the job market.”

STEPPING OUTSIDE THE COMFORT ZONE

Change can be difficult, but faculty members have embraced the opportunity to further their own education and approach to teaching. And, Maghen believes that early, incremental successes will blossom into wholesale positive growth for the school and community.

“It’s been a lot of work,” said Meg Bronson, English teacher. “But I think we’ll see a really positive return on the time and effort we’re investing. It’s about creating students who are better learners and who will think more critically as

“I think we’ll see a really positive return on the time and effort we’re investing. It’s about creating students who are better learners and who will think more critically as adults.”

– Meg Bronson

Technology and Innovation Chair Mary Ridler and Performing Arts teacher Jim Slike (‘07) work together during a recent professional development session.

Math and Science teacher Melissa Grai Vince Urankar

Our Cougar Family Tree

The Manning Family

The Manning family tree has strong roots and solid branches. Joe and Sue Manning raised five bright and caring children, each of them now accomplished and compassionate adults – and each one positively influenced by their education, faith formation and friendships at Lake Catholic High School.

PLANTING GOOD SEEDS

Joe Manning grew up in Euclid and is a 1966 graduate of St. Joseph High School. He taught theology at St. Edward High School and then at Lake Catholic from 1978 to 1980 before returning to school to earn his law degree. Joe then spent the rest of his career as an attorney. His wife Sue was a 1970 graduate of West Tech High School, and in 1977 they moved their young family to foreign territory: Mentor.

“We had never heard of Mentor. It was a little more rural then, with smaller main streets,” recalled Sue. They still live on Brownell Drive where they raised their four sons and one daughter. They later built a new home on the wooded lot next door.

The Mannings are longtime parishioners at Saint John Vianney and sent their children to All Saints School. Sue and Joe have always believed that Catholic education is a wise investment, and they’re pleased with how Lake Catholic helped form their children: Bob (‘94), Pat (‘97), Joe (‘99), Tom (‘02), and Suzi (‘05).

ROOTS TO GROW AND WINGS TO FLY

When Joe taught at Lake Catholic, he got to know the teachers and liked the culture. Sue remembers “a good feeling walking into the school” and attending plays and sporting events even before their children were students.

When their oldest child, Bob, went to Lake Catholic and liked it, his siblings followed with excitement, never wanting to consider other schools. Each of their children felt strong connections in the school community, helping them launch their lives and careers.

Bob played on the Lake Catholic soccer team and loved art classes, where he excelled in painting and sculpture. He majored in finance at Wittenberg University, earned his MBA at The Ohio State University and is a portfolio manager for JPMorgan Chase in Columbus.

His brother Pat was also into sports, especially basketball. Like his siblings, Pat remains close to many of his grade school and Lake Catholic friends. Pat earned his degree in business from John Carroll University and works as a client success manager for a software company in Cleveland.

Joe, Jr. was the shortest of the boys until he joined the freshman basketball team and suddenly shot up by inches, eventually reaching 6’5”. He loved his time at Lake Catholic and, after graduation, followed his dad’s advice to experience other cultures. Traveling to Kenya, he volunteered in a poor area doing AIDS education. This inspired brothers Pat and Tom to visit and explore Africa as well. Joe earned his MBA from Northwestern, works for a private equity investment firm, and lives in Shaker Heights with his wife and four children.

Tom played basketball and developed close friends at Lake Catholic. He majored

The Manning Family (from left to right): Pat Manning and Catherine Cappetto, Meredith and Joe Manning, Susan and Joseph Manning, Dave and Suzi Gahr, Bob Manning, Ali and Tom Manning.

in international relations at CSU, studied Arabic at the University of Jordan, and worked as an intelligence officer with the U.S. Department of Defense. He now works for a software development company and lives in Mentor with his wife and two children.

The youngest Manning, Suzi, was also sports-minded at Lake Catholic and played on the first girls’ basketball team to reach the state finals. She was very influenced by and involved in Kairos retreats and always attracted to the humanities and helping those in need.

Her father remembers a pivotal moment at a family dinner when Suzi was a junior at Cleveland State and leaning toward a major in social work. Her four older brothers, all in finance-related fields, said “Why would you do that? You could help people as an attorney or doctor. Do you know what you’ll make as a social worker?” She thoughtfully replied: “Yes. A difference.”

Suzi earned her master’s in sociology from Case Western Reserve University and is now a mental health therapist and married with two sons.

FRIENDSHIPS AND FAITH

As parents, Sue and Joe were active volunteers at Lake Catholic – from preschool PSR classes to bingo, the Gala and strategic planning committees. Their children felt connected to other Cougars in the Lake Catholic family, and all were inspired by Kairos retreats led by campus ministry.

Joe sees this as the heart of the school’s mission. “As a father and a religious person, I believe the retreats were the most important event at Lake Catholic. They are a chance to get away from the busy world and think about what’s really of value. The two most important days are the day you’re born and the day you figure out why. That’s what I hope happens on a retreat, where

The Manning Family The Manning Family

kids begin to understand what’s important in life.”

Sue saw a Catholic culture that inspired camaraderie, faith and a spirit of service. “Besides school Masses and retreats, they had service trips to nursing homes and food pantries. Our children still volunteer as adults and include their own children in volunteer service.”

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Joe is retired now and involved in Catholic education initiatives in the Cleveland diocese, such as Keeping the Faith. He sees enormous challenges in a world that has changed radically. “We are sliding into

behaviors, attitudes and lifestyles that are causing horrific problems in our culture.

Schools can’t continue to do what they’ve done in the past.” He hopes to see a new model for elementary schools that will impact students through high school.

With eight grandchildren living nearby, Joe is pleased that some of his kids intend to send their own children to Lake Catholic.

“One of the best things we did when we first got married was paying attention to who we hung around with. We’ve met wonderful people through our parish and Lake Catholic. Our kids are in their 40s now and those relationships have lasted and made a positive difference in all our lives.”

Sue & Joe Manning

Joe (‘99)

Pat (‘97)

Tom (‘02)

Suzi (‘05)

Bob (‘94)

SUMMER CAMPS

May – July

Spend your summer learning a new craft, sharpening your skills and making new friends! Sessions available for kids and adults of all ages.

To register and see all of the sessions available, scan the QR Code or visit lakecatholic.org/summer-camps

School May Be Out But Summer Camp is In

We talked to Visual Arts Department Chair, Kelly Wolf, about why she loves spending part of her summer teaching

The end of the school year is always a crazy time for teachers, but for Kelly Wolf, the last month of school is especially hectic.

As the Lake Catholic Senior Class Advisor, Wolf is always working alongside students to host activities and celebrations for the graduating class. That includes serving as the event coordinator for Prom. She balances this with her teaching responsibilities, administering finals and completing students’ grades in time for report cards.

This summer, Wolf will offer three different camps spanning four age groups:

„ Pottery for Adults Thursdays (May 23-June 20) from 6 to 9 p.m.

„ Gotta Make a Gnome! Tuesdays (May 28 and June 4) from 6 to 9 p.m. for adults and teens

„ Crafty Cougar Camp June 10-13; Grades 1-3 from 9 a.m. to noon, and Grades 4-8, from 1 to 4 p.m.

Then comes summer break – which for Wolf means one of her favorite events of the year: art-theme summer camps for the Lake Catholic community.

“The end of the year is always crazy, but there’s also a kind of excitement to it with so much going on,” Wolf said. “And the summer camps aren’t something that I have to do, but something that I want to do.”

“Art is everywhere, in everything that we do. So any time I can spend helping someone or teaching someone, that’s what I’m going to do.”

— Kelly Wolf

“Summer camps are definitely a different dynamic and instruction than during the school year,” Wolf said. “A lot of planning goes into the youth camp. With the younger kids, I have to be prepared for anything to happen and pace projects to keep kids engaged. But the adult classes are more flexible. Some people want guidance but others come in and don’t need any instruction at all.”

After the camps end, Wolf will enjoy the rest of her summer break before returning for her 31st year at Lake Catholic.

Wolf plans on taking a summer art course to become fully accredited to teach College Credit Plus (CCP) art classes next school year. She’ll also be busy as the Catholic Diocesan Teachers Union (CHALTA) Secretary, a member of Lake Catholic’s Academic Council, and a domain leader for Lake Catholic’s Strategic Planning process.

“Art is everywhere, in everything that we do,” Kelly said. “So any time I can spend helping someone or teaching someone, that’s what I’m going to do.”

Phillip “Phil” Ciano (‘86)

Typically, alumnae profiles start with a heartwarming story about entering a school’s doors for the first time. This is not one of those stories. “I’m pretty sure I cried when my parents told me I was going to Lake Catholic,” said Phil Ciano. “I wanted to go to St. Joe’s since it was the football powerhouse at the time. With my older sister already at Lake, and four other siblings on the way, my parents told me St. Joe’s wasn’t an option.”

Four years, many friends and hundreds of life lessons later, Phil did in fact play for the city’s football powerhouse – Lake Catholic –as a key Varsity defensive back.

“The irony was: I was exactly where I needed to be and got to be a part of something special,” he said. “My dearest friends today – all of those people who have been at every important event in my life –were all friends I made at Lake Catholic.”

Today, life has taken Phil in a variety of directions – from founding partner at the Cleveland based, national law firm of Ciano & Goldwasser, to partial owner of England’s Ipswich Town Football Club, to husband and father. His Lake Catholic foundation has been there for all of it.

At the heart of Phil’s life is his family: wife Amy and sons Danny, a senior at Miami University (Oxford, Ohio), and Michael, a junior at St. Ignatius. “If you would have told

me in 1986 that I would have a son go to St. Ignatius, I would have said you were crazy” Phil said with a laugh. “We had a special team my junior year at Lake with one goal in mind: a state championship. All was going according to plan until Ignatius knocked us off at our homecoming game. One loss, and just like that, we were out of the playoffs.”

Phil’s Lake Catholic memories are many, including “saving” a teacher from a rare earthquake. “It was great memories all the way around – football, track, classes, extracurriculars. I had Mr. Petrus for Accounting my senior year, and my teammate Harold Arrowsmith (‘86) and I needed to pull off a miracle to pass the class. One day there was an earthquake. Harold and I jumped up and body-covered Mr. Petrus so he wouldn’t get injured. We got creative – we figured we could earn some extra credit points.”

In addition to the fun memories are the lifelong lessons Phil has taken with him. “While at Lake, I really learned how to take risks. I learned the importance of doing the hard things first and being a part of a team. Most of all, I learned the importance of

From right to left: Phil, his wife Amy and sons Danny and Michael fly-fishing in Montana.

“While at Lake, I really learned how to take risks. I learned the importance of doing the hard things first and being a part of a team. Most of all, I learned the importance of having God at the center of your life and the importance of a strong faith.”

– Phil Ciano

having God at the center of your life and the importance of a strong faith.”

One of those risks was launching a cutting edge, private equity firm while Ciano & Goldwasser approaches its 25-year anniversary. That firm – Bright Path Sports Partners – raises and deploys specialized investment capital into professional sports, media and entertainment assets. While the firm is only a year and a half old, their first portfolio investment – a 43% stake in Ipswich Town FC – is already paying off. The season wrapped up on May 4th with the team at the top of the Championship table in England’s multi-tier soccer league. Teams that finish in the top two slots of the Championship league get the rare honor of being automatically promoted to global football’s most lucrative stage: the English Premier League (think Manchester United,

Liverpool, Chelsea, etc). Phil had the honor of being back in London on May 4th to watch live from the owner’s box as Ipswich sealed promotion to the Premier League. “With 25 years in professional sports, I’ve been blessed to be present for some pretty cool game sevens and other events. But I have never experienced anything like May 4th in Ipswich. This team made football history, and we are very grateful to be a small part of it.”

Phil’s law and finance practice takes him back and forth to London to watch the team and visit the city where he met his wife Amy as a backpacking college student more than 30 years ago. Closer to home, Phil sits on the Board of the Miami University Parents Council and the American Cancer Society where he chaired the organization’s annual Discovery Ball fundraiser in 2023. “Amy was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago and, after a difficult year of treatment, came out on the positive side of things. It’s important to support the places that have helped me and my family,” he said.

That includes Lake Catholic, where he is a former Advisory Board member and Task Force committee member. “I try to support Lake Catholic whenever I can. I still believe strongly in the school’s mission and culture.”

Of course, Phil also enjoys the occasional trip back to watch a Lake Catholic football game – where he still has a personal connection. In addition to Phil’s siblings walking the halls at Lake, he has had many cousins, nieces and nephews that called Lake Catholic home. His nephew Christopher Vanjo–a standout two-way Varsity football player graduating this May–pulled Phil back to his Lake Catholic roots more than ever in 2023. “Lake Catholic is family. It shaped my future and my value system. I’m proud to be a Cougar and contribute when called upon.”

“Lake Catholic is family. It shaped my future and my value system. I’m proud to be a Cougar and contribute when called upon.”

– Phil Ciano

From right to left: Phil and Bright Path Sports partner, Jake Zahnow, at Ipswich Town FC (Suffolk County, UK).

From right to left: Phil, sons Danny and Michael, and Father Mario Ciano at client’s championship boxing match.

Cougar Reunions & Alumni Events

Lake Catholic Wrestling hosted two fantastic opportunities for alumni to come together for some fun and excitement. Dozens of alumni attended the annual Christmas Eve wrestling practice where they dusted off their shoes and showcased their skills!

Members of the Lake Catholic Class of 1983 met at the Italian American Brotherhood Club of Cleveland in Little Italy in February, where they spent the day making homemade cavatelli. Michael Lisi is a member of the IAB and looks forward to hosting more events for Lake Catholic Alumni in the future. Joining him at the dinner were Karen (Aveni) Mullen, Walt Miraglia, Rocky Nelson, Elaine (DeMarinis) Nelson, and Lake Catholic friend Manda Redfern

Additionally, the wrestling team hosted a new Senior Night/Honorary Coach Night

This event brought nearly 20 alumni and their families together for a great dual meet victory followed by a lively social event hosted at Lake Catholic.

CLASS OF 1989

“We are already looking forward to our next reunion!! Thank you to fellow alumni Molly Priest Gebler for organizing a fun filled weekend of activities in Chagrin Falls. Please join our Facebook page “Lake Catholic Class of 1989” to keep in touch!”

– Kelly Peterlin (‘89)

Just before the 2024 Annual Alumni Class Challenge began, the Class of 1976 got a chance to celebrate its victory from the 2023 Class Challenge. The ‘76ers had the highest percentage of participation in the 2023 Challenge. They shopped in the Spirit Store, placed ornaments on the Christmas tree in the Atrium, toured the updated school areas, and enjoyed catching up with 30 of their classmates.

The Lake Catholic Alumni Association held a Women’s Movie Night on February 1 at Urban Vintner. Alumni enjoyed pizza for dinner while munching on popcorn and exquisite European chocolates during the showing of The Perfect Pairing.

On March 15-16, the Alumni Association held another successful Vic Matteucci Alumni Classic, its annual two-day basketball tournament. Nearly 100 Lake Catholic alumni participated in the tournament and hundreds more from the Lake Catholic community were in attendance throughout the weekend. Congratulations to the three winning teams: Let Em Know (Competitive Division), The Green Team (Recreation Division) and The Lady Cougars (Women’s Division).

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: 1974, 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.

Alumni Updates

Matt Ludwig (‘15) clinched his 15th gold medal at the Pan American Games in the pole vault. Ludwig’s remarkable feat included a first-attempt clearance at 18-2.50 (5.55m), sealing his place at the top of the podium. Ludwig was a part of the three-man U.S. Pole Vault team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and earlier this year he was named an assistant coach for pole vaulting at Baldwin Wallace University.

Daniel Walsh (‘20) was one of five John Carroll University students who had the opportunity to participate in the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) Cup Competition in February. The ACG Cup is a case study competition designed to give students from leading university business programs across the country real world experience and invaluable insights into mergers and acquisitions, investment banking, financial advisory and private equity. Each case study provides students with an opportunity to present valuation, capital markets and M&A strategic advice to a panel of professionals from within the community.

Evan Bush (‘04) extended his contract as goalkeeper with The Columbus Crew for the 2024 Major League Soccer season. Bush won the MLS Championship with the Crew last season, played for the Cougars in the early 2000s and played collegiately at The University of Akron. Bush has played in the MLS since 2012, notching 42 clean sheets across 188 regular season starts. The Ohio native was a longtime starter for CF Montréal, then joined the Vancouver Whitecaps FC before a trade to Columbus in December 2020.

Jesse Ackerman (‘96) published his first children’s book, “The Luck of Two Ducks,” in December. It was inspired by two inseparable ducks and the two men who meant so much to him. It tells the tale of a friendship between two ducks and their exploration of their many differences while realizing they are more similar than different. You can find Ackerman’s book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, ReaderHouse and more.

Dan Radigan (‘93) celebrated 14 years of service in the Mentor Police Department Detective Bureau. The police department honored his dedication and commitment to keeping the community safe. Officer Radigan has transitioned to a new role within the Crime Prevention unit, where his expertise and passion will continue to make a positive impact.

Ella Hadley (‘21) was named to the NCAA Women’s Division I Academic All-Ohio Second Team by the Ohio Collegiate Soccer Association. Hadley, a junior Exercise Science major at the University of Akron, had a 3.72 GPA in this school year’s first semester. This past season, Hadley started all 18 of Akron’s contests en route to posting two goals and two assists on the strength of 28 shots, including 13 on goal.

Paul Tesar, PhD (‘99) was awarded the Case Western Reserve University’s highest honor—the Case Medal for Excellence in Health Science Innovation— during the School of Medicine State of the School presentation in December. Tesar has been at the forefront of unraveling the complexities of glial cell dysfunction and its crucial role in human neurological diseases. Among his notable achievements are the discovery of two novel classes of medicines: a remyelination therapy for multiple sclerosis (which the university licensed to Convelo Therapeutics) and an antisense oligonucleotide therapy for Pelizaeus Merzbacher disease (licensed to Ionis Pharmaceuticals and slated for clinical trials early next year).

Lindsay (Marlowe) Defeo (‘04) was honored as one of the Emerging Leaders of United Way of Lake County’s “4 Under 40.” Defeo is an accomplished professional in the hospitality industry, known for her exceptional leadership and dedication to providing unique and memorable experiences to her customers. As the Owner and Director of Operations for Leolo Hospitality in Mentor, she oversees all aspects of the business including customer relations, member experience, social media, administration and HR. She played an integral role in launching a unique meal experience in 2021 that provides healthy, flavor-filled meals to the community.

Gabrielle Grandini (‘19) returned to Lake Catholic this winter to share nursing career insights with Mrs. Chris Ronzi’s anatomy class. Grandini, a neonatal ICU nurse at The Cleveland Clinic’s Hillcrest Hospital, shared her journey from high school to nursing school to Hillcrest. She showed some of the tools that are used in the NICU including tiny band-aids and diapers.

If you missed the class challenge but would still like to donate, scan the QR code or visit lakecatholic.org/giving.

In February, the school hosted its second annual class challenge – a friendly competition between alumni classes to see who would give the most. The challenge raised $148,432 that will provide tuition assistance, merit scholarships, academic programming and more to current students. Congratulations to the Class of 1983 (most donors) and the Class of 1981 (most funds raised).

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

Gail Boucher (‘74)

Michael Keating (‘78)

Eric Soeder (‘84)

Thomas Mclaughlin (‘87)

Jennifer Selan (‘89)

FRIENDS OF LAKE CATHOLIC

Mary “Jean” Robinson

Denis P. Shinhearl

Paul Melison

Retirements

Sue Gehring

Main Office Receptionist (previous: Attendance Aid, Auxiliary Clerk)

Years of Service: 18 1/2

What will you miss most about Lake Catholic: “I will definitely miss interacting with our students the most when I leave Lake Catholic. My wise Aunt once told me to surround myself with youth and you will stay young forever…I always tell them they keep me “HIP” and that they are keeping me young. I have also met so many wonderful families along the way, made friendships with my peers and have had students that have touched my heart forever.

Being at Lake Catholic has meant so much more to me than a job and I am very grateful for the Blessings I have received time and time again.”

What are some of your favorite memories: “Some of my favorite memories from Lake Catholic are being fortunate enough to attend the Girls Kairos Retreat and then giving a witness for years afterwards; winning the State Volleyball Championship in 2010 and doing a play-by-play announcement over the PA system for the kids who couldn’t be at the game in Dayton; finding

very personal, special items after praying to St. Anthony; getting to work along side my sister (Joanne Randazzo) who was a bright light at Lake Catholic, and now my niece (Gina Stenger); and probably the most meaningful were the times we stood in silence along Bellflower as Honor Guards with our arms raised with respect and in prayer for dear members of our Lake Catholic community that passed away The list goes on and on but here are just a few that have meant the most to me.”

What are you looking forward to the most about retirement:

“I am looking forward to having a lazy, fun summer that will last until FALL, spending time more time with my husband, Tom, my kids Joe, Brittany and Jenna and grandsons Leonardo and Luca in Denver!

I’m hoping to work out in the mornings and try new plant-based recipes, paint furniture and enjoy life to the fullest!”

Meg Finegan

Math Teacher (previous: Math Department Chairperson, Robotics Club Monitor)

Years of Service: 22

What will you miss most about Lake Catholic: The sense of community

What are some of your favorite memories: “I always loved the Broadmoor Christmas parties. I hope they can come back in the future... COVID changes have put a wrench in the parties with the lack of bus drivers and nurses.”

What are you looking forward to the most about retirement: “Spending more time with my 95-year-old mother. My husband works remotely, so he can work from anywhere, so maybe we won’t be in Ohio 12 months of the year.”

Dear Lake Catholic Community,

As we come to the close of the 2023-24 academic year, let me first congratulate the students of Class of 2024 on their graduation. I wish them the best of luck as they head off to college, trade school or the workforce, and join the ranks of the more than 10,000 alumni proud to call Lake Catholic their alma mater.

This year has been marked by several accomplishments by our students and staff across campus. The Vivarium, flourishing once more in the S-hallway, stands as a testament to the dedication of our science department Chair, Mrs. Chris Ronzi. The Media Center transformed into a thriving student support hub with the addition of a “Tutoring Center“ which has enhanced our academic environment and supports our students. Thankfully, we are blessed with a talented and dedicated faculty and staff at Lake Catholic High School who have aided us in experiencing significant growth and success this past year. Their commitment to excellence is a testament to the unwavering support and guidance of our students.

Throughout the year, our school community has come together to celebrate moments of joy, camaraderie, and our willingness to serve. From spirited pep rallies and engaging theatrical performances of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Guys and Dolls, to inspiring service projects. The retreats and service programs that were put on hold during the pandemic returned, helping to strengthen the bonds of our Lake Catholic family and deepen our shared sense of purpose and belonging.

On the athletic front, our Cougars have once again showcased their grit on the field, court, and track with standout performances and championship victories that have brought pride and joy to our entire community. The volleyball team’s undefeated record and back-toback State Championships underscore its commitment to teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance—an embodiment of the Lake Catholic athletic spirit. The wrestling team bounced back on the mat with five state qualifiers and five state placers. This is a small sample of the tireless work and dedication to a craft by all of our student-athletes.

In the coming years, we will continue to prioritize innovation, collaboration, and holistic education, equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to be college-bound or career-ready. This begins by adding new electives, such as the multi-faceted Yearbook Production course, and continuing to encourage our student body to pursue and grow their gifts, talents, and interests.

Together, we will embark on this journey with enthusiasm, resilience, and a deep sense of gratitude for the privilege of serving the Lake Catholic community.

As we bid farewell to another memorable year and look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, let us do so with respect and compassion, hope, and optimism, and belief in the transformative power of Catholic education.

Thomas E. McKrill (‘07) Principal

Lake Catholic High School