Striving Forward
Our Mission: Lake Catholic High School is an educational community centered in the mission of Jesus Christ where 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 sixth edition of Striving Forward, the magazine for and about the Lake Catholic community.
Dear Lake Catholic Community,
Greetings from Lake Catholic High School! It is with great joy and a deep sense of pride that I write to you in this edition of Striving Forward. As president of this incredible institution, I am continually inspired by the rich legacy of faith, learning, and community that has defined our school for so many years.
Each year, as I reflect on our shared journey, I am reminded that the heart of Lake Catholic lies in the connections we foster—connections nurtured in the classrooms, on the fields, and through the many service projects and spiritual experiences that shape us all. Our alumni network is a testament to the enduring impact of this place, and I am thrilled to continue witnessing how the values we cultivate here guide and inspire you as you move forward in your lives.
This year, we have much to celebrate—whether it’s our growing enrollment, as we excitedly welcome more students who will carry forward the Lake Catholic tradition; the unveiling and implementation of our strategic plan, which ensures that our school is wellprepared for the opportunities and challenges of the future; or the strengthening of our faith community, highlighted by the recent dedication of the St. Thomas Aquinas Learning Center. I am excited to share these stories with you, and I hope they bring back fond memories of your time at Lake Catholic, reminding you of the strong foundation this school provided as you’ve gone on to accomplish so much.
As you read through the pages of this magazine, I encourage you to reflect on the role Lake Catholic played in shaping who you are today. Consider how you might continue to support this vibrant community that remains so close to your heart. Together, we continue to build on our rich history while looking toward a future where our students thrive and live out the mission of Catholic education.
Thank you for being a part of the Lake Catholic family. I look forward to hearing about all that you are accomplishing and invite you to stay connected with us as we continue to grow in faith, knowledge, and service.
With warm regards and many blessings,
John Morabeto President
What’s Inside
Scan for Lake Catholic Calendar
What’s Happening in Cougar Country
Academics
In December, Lake Catholic’s Food and Nutrition classes held their inaugural Master Chef competition. Congratulations to Grace Stenger (‘26) for becoming the school’s first Master Chef, with the help of her sous-chefs Bella Leffel (‘25) and Molly Monroe (‘26). It was Chef Grace’s apple crisp dessert that won her the personalized, embroidered chef coat.
For the first time, Lake Catholic partnered with Motogo Cleveland – a program designed to teach kids confidence through building motorcycles. Each student got to kickstart the very same model of bike they had been handling all semester. According to Motogo Cleveland’s Facebook page, “We saw endless enthusiasm from Day 1 with the boys of Lake Catholic, who reminded us each week the value of just letting loose and having fun with a challenge.”
The Junior/Senior Project is an annual, week-long experience that aims to provide students with the chance to investigate career paths through networking and learning opportunities provided by community members. With help from experts in the industry, students could enhance their personal and professional development beyond the conventional classroom setting.
“I think this is a great opportunity for all of us to learn more about what we might want to do as a career,” AJ Trobenter (‘25) said. “It’s a great learning experience, even if what we do for that week ends up being not what we expected.”
English teacher Miss Tabitha Halcomb collaborated with Visual Arts Department Chair Kelly Wolf to create a synergetic literature and art experience for freshmen English classes. After reading Elie Wiesel’s 1960 memoir Night based on his Holocaust experiences during World War II, the students participated in The Butterfly Project. The initiative educates on social justice through the lens of the Holocaust, complemented by an art experience that underscores these lessons. Students painted ceramic butterflies to symbolize resilience and hope.
Food and Nutrition Classes
Junior/Senior Project
Motogo Cleveland
Athletics
The Girls Volleyball team won its third straight state title in November, beating Bishop Fenwick at Wright State University’s Nutter Center. The team’s last two titles were awarded in Division III. They earned this year’s title in Division V due to the introduction of new OHSAA divisions. The title is also the fourth for the volleyball program, surpassing football for the most in school history.
Darren Bittner (‘26), Tino Perkovic (‘25), Evan Ream (‘26), and Owen Pesek (‘26) make up the boys State Champion 200 Free Relay team. This marks the school’s first state championship in swimming and diving. It was also the first boys relay team to win a state title in all of Lake County.
Annie Malchesky (‘27), the school’s lone gymnast, represented Lake Catholic at the state meet in March. She participated in vault and floor exercise, finishing in the top 10 in vault
Caleb Stein (‘25) finished sixth in long jump at the Indoor High School State Championships Meet, put on by the Ohio Association of Track and Cross Country Coaches, in February. Jimmy Gibbons (‘25) took eighth in the shot put.
Four Cougars helped lead the Mentor High School Hockey team to the Frozen Four for the first time. AJ Trobenter (‘25), Jake Mackey (‘26), Joe Mackey (‘26) and Nick Biondilillo (‘26) all scored in the Cardinal’s 4-0 regional final win against University School.
Wrestler Danny Zmorowski (‘27) won the 215-pound State Championship in Columbus in March. Danny becomes the 16th Cougar in wrestling history to win a state title, and it’s the program’s 19th state championship overall. Along with Zmorowski, four other Cougar wrestlers who competed in the state tournament – Tommy Slack (‘27), Chance Wuhr (‘27), Tyler Ineman (‘28) and Giovanni Magistrelli (‘28) – received All-Ohio honors. The team finished fourth in Division III.
Volleyball
READ MORE ABOUT THE JOURNEY TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS ON PAGE 14.
Wrestling
Hockey
Swimming
What’s Happening in Cougar Country
Performing & Visual Arts
In November, the Performing Arts department put on An Evening of David Ives OneAct Plays. The lighthearted show featured excerpts from some of the American playwright’s best and most well-known plays including: Sure Things, Captive Audience, Universal Language, The Philadelphia, Arabian Nights, and Lives of the Saints. David Malinowski, from The Fine Arts Association, directed and produced the show. He was assisted by Rosie Orlando (‘26). The plays starred: Ava Passerell (‘27), Jake Stevens (‘26), Vince Regano (‘27), Izzy Salvatore (‘28), Vinny DelGrosso (‘27), Emmy Schoen (‘25), Kimmy Wiertel (‘26), Josh Skunda (‘26), Riley Lacinak (‘27), Alexis Hollowell (‘28), Daniel Grossman (‘27), Johnny Hoose (‘26), Sedona Stankus (‘26), Gigi Benns (‘27), Berlynn Beard (‘26), and Mary Kate Hever (‘27).
In March, the Performing Arts department put on yet another brilliant show, Little Women Directed by Kyle Lorek (‘11), Little Women follows the adventures of sisters Jo (Ella Radell ‘27), Meg (Ava Passerell ‘27), Beth (Mary Kate Hever ‘27) and Amy (Izzy Salvatore ‘28) March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested. Her friend, Professor Bhaer (Vince Regano ‘27), tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo writes about the life of her family and their experiences growing up in Civil War America.
In February, the Lake Catholic Choir performed in the annual LCMEA Choir Festival along with other Lake County choral programs. The show took place at the Mentor Fine Arts Center.
Three Lake Catholic students – Andrew Zarbo (‘26), Darren Bittner (‘26), and Julianna Amato (‘27) – were featured at the city of Mentor’s [unveiled] Art Exhibition in March, with Bittner’s painting “Niagra Falls” winning the People’s Choice Award.
The Lake Catholic Choir and Marching Band performed at the Cleveland Charge game on January 14. The choir sang the national anthem, and the band served as a pep band throughout the game.
An Evening of David Ives One-Act Plays
Little Women
LCMEA Choir Festival
Charge Game [unveiled]
Scholarships & Awards
In January, Lake Catholic honored its Cougar Elite Scholars from the Class of 2029. Top Cougar Elite Scholars will share in more than $50,000 in scholarships to help aid in their Lake Catholic tuition. Congratulations to Nick Cognati (School of Innovation), Tyler Earley (St. Mary of the Assumption School), Peyton Erste (Near West Intergenerational School), Katie Hoose (Mater Dei Academy), Giuliana Horgan (Mentor Memorial Middle School), Izzy Kim (School of Innovation), Colin Kleppel (St. Mary of the Assumption School), Meredith Little (Mater Dei Academy), Gabriel Novkovic (School of Innovation), Alice Pesek (Ss. Robert and William Catholic School), and Lily Tennyson (School of Innovation).
Congratulations to Maddie Gibbons (‘28) and Colton Linden (‘28) who were awarded the Lake Catholic Alumni Association’s Legacy Scholarship this spring. The $1,000 renewable scholarship was open to any freshman whose parent, grandparent, guardian or aunt/uncle attended Lake Catholic. The Lake Catholic Alumni Association Legacy Scholarship celebrates the legacy of being a Lake Catholic Cougar and rewards those who demonstrate the school’s core values: a commitment to excellence in and out of the classroom; a spirit of respect and compassion; personal integrity; and a willingness to serve others.
Cougar Elite Scholars
Birthright Lake, Inc.
Meals
on Wheels Valentines
Community Outreach
In December, students, parents and staff packed a Lake Catholic bus with donations collected through a giving tree event and delivered them to Birthright Lake, Inc. in Mentor. The event, organized by the Lake Catholic Parent Association, provided over 500 items to support families in Lake County.
Second-year art teacher Carolina Kane brought a service-learning approach to a Valentine’s Day project. Students created and donated more than 100 cards to Lake County Council on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program. Ms. Kane said of the experience, “We see it all the time here – the spirit of giving and service. It’s right there in the mission of Lake Catholic. I just want to continue to help our students appreciate their important role of service, but while also learning.”
in January, February and April, juniors and seniors attended Kairos retreats to renew their faith and strengthen friendships. These retreats are an opportunity for students to hear each others’ stories, consider their lives and experiences, and think about who they want to be in the future. Kairos offers a chance for self-reflection from Jesus’s perspective and in light of the Gospel.
Kairos Retreats
Legacy Scholarship
A New Guiding Light for Lake Catholic: 2025 Strategic Plan
Entrust your works to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.
The time is now – to plan for a strong future for Lake Catholic. With input from the greater Cougar community, Lake Catholic has developed and is implementing the 2025 Strategic Plan. It is the guiding light for transformative actions to be taken during the next three to five years.
President John Morabeto describes it this way: “The strategic plan is a road map for success, one that involves the community and its vision. It allows us to dream big and think about what Lake Catholic can be for generations to come. We can’t just hope that it happens; we have to think about it today.”
This is a plan driven by a broad spectrum of stakeholders. The open invitation to alumni and friends of the school led to a year-long process of surveys and interviews. Hundreds of responses came in, leading to a detailed assessment of where Lake Catholic is today within key areas. That data led to the creation of strategic goals and objectives across eight “domains” or areas of focus that will strengthen and guide Lake Catholic into the future.
NEW PRESIDENT’S PRIORITY
When John Morabeto became the school’s president in June 2023, he hit the ground running. He had just finished 11 years as Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Saint Ignatius High School, where he secured over $150 million for endowment growth, facility improvements and tuition affordability.
After just three months at Lake Catholic, he was already exploring the idea of a fresh strategic plan. “The reality is that Catholic schools need to be very strategic these days and involve the community as part of the process.”
Thus began a 15-month journey that included the school’s Advisory Board, a Strategic Plan committee and the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland.
Another key player was Partners in Mission, the nation’s premier consulting firm dedicated to helping Catholic schools and their leaders flourish in an increasingly competitive and secular environment.
Morabeto was impressed by consultant Mike Loyet and his nearly 40 years of experience in Catholic education as a teacher, coach and ultimately a school president. “The consultant’s role was to keep everybody on track and keep us thinking at a 30,000-foot view and not get into the weeds of implementation.”
STRATEGY BASED ON EIGHT DOMAINS
The planning process was driven by Strategic Plan Co-Chairs Mike Creadon (‘81) and Mike Denk (‘83) and a newly formed Strategic Plan committee of staff, alumni and friends passionate about the school. Numerous interviews were conducted with students, parents, administrators and faculty to assess the current situation in eight foundational domains: Advancement, Catholic Identity, Enrollment, Facilities, Academics, Finance, Governance and Student Life.
Committee members interviewed those most familiar with each domain. For example, teachers were asked about issues concerning academics. The Advancement team was asked about issues related to fundraising, and the Theology department
In his second year as President, John Morabeto has met with members across the Lake Catholic community to help drive the future of the school.
Strategic Domains
Advancement
Engage Lake Catholic High School stakeholders to create a culture of support which ensures the viability of the school now and for generations to come.
Facilities
Provide an inviting campus that inspires faith, learning and pride, which incorporates state of the art technology, and ensures a safe and secure environment.
Governance
Develop systems and structures to effectively collaborate across the Diocese of Cleveland, Lake Catholic High School, Board and Committees to promote visionary direction, demonstrate accountability, communicate transparently, and operate with efficiency.
Catholic Identity
Form faith-filled disciples who encounter Jesus Christ through meaningful and transformative faith experiences, learning, and Christian action.
Academics
Create an academic culture in which students identify, develop and share their talents and abilities to serve God, family, and community.
Student Life
Foster the development of the whole student, which includes spiritual, emotional, intellectual, mental, and social growth.
Enrollment
Be the school of choice centered in the mission of Jesus Christ to attract and retain students of diverse interests, abilities and backgrounds thus achieving optimal enrollment.
Finance
Adopt and implement a modern, sustainable, and transparent financial strategy to ensure the mission and vision of Lake Catholic.
“The strategic plan is a road map for success, one that involves the community and its vision.”
– John Morabeto, President
was consulted on the school’s Catholic identity. The Admissions staff was asked to share insights on enrollment while current students were asked about concerns related to Student Life.
“We were very honest with ourselves in terms of where we sit today and the work it will take to move forward in the way modern Catholic institutions need to operate,” explains Morabeto.
This all culminated in a weekend strategic writing session in September 2024. More than 80 stakeholders involved in the strategic planning process gathered to
discuss, debate and align on strategic goals for each domain. Those goals were approved by the Advisory Board and embraced by the diocese.
“The entire process helped strengthen a fruitful partnership with the diocese. The diocese encouraged us along the way and were an active part of the process. They gave us a thumbs up on the strategic plan and agreed with the direction for Lake Catholic.”
PUTTING THE PLAN INTO ACTION
The new strategic plan guides initiatives for the next three to five years, ensuring
accountability through checks and balances by the Advisory Board and committees using goal spreadsheets.
“If difficulties arise along the way, having this engine for success will allow us to work through them,” says Morabeto.
Early successes are already underway. To enhance governance effectiveness and transparency, Morabeto, Advisory Board Chair Jeff Fenner (‘84) and board member Mike Creadon (‘81) attended the Board Development Institute at Boston College to learn about best practices for Catholic school boards.
Committee members at the weekend strategic writing session take a break for a group photo and celebrate their efforts on the strategic plan.
The strategic plan writing session brought together committee members led by a consulting firm to spend a weekend developing a mission statement and objectives for each domain.
Immediate actions are also being implemented in the Facilities domain, including a plan to address deferred and preventive maintenance on a building that is now 50 years old. And in the area of Catholic Identity, the library has been renamed the Saint Thomas Aquinas Learning Center after the school’s patron saint, with artwork installed on the walls of this central hub. More actions are in planning or implementation stages across all eight domains, particularly in Advancement.
ENERGIZING ALUMNI & BOOSTING ENROLLMENT
Carla (Valyko) Ronnebaum (‘00) is the Director of Advancement and a devoted alumna from the class of 2000. “I absolutely loved my experience at Lake Catholic. It transformed me as a person and in my faith. It’s so rewarding to be serving a place that means so much to me.”
When she was hired in 2022, enrollment was declining as was fundraising and alumni engagement. Ronnebaum is pleased with the strategic plan and a change in course. “It feels like we’re moving in a very positive direction. Alumni and prospective families have confidence that Catholic education at Lake Catholic is here to stay.”
Working alongside Matt Trem, the Director of Marketing and Communications, Ronnebaum was impressed by all that she learned during the strategic planning survey process. “I became very familiar with all eight domains. It gave me a wonderful perspective to share with the community. But more than anything, it was exciting to see how deeply people care about Lake Catholic and want to see it succeed. I had underestimated that passion.”
The Advancement Office has already begun implementing initiatives that meet strategic plan goals – from greater recognition of alumni accomplishments to more opportunities to bring alumni back to campus. That includes a summer “grand
reunion” for all classes with years ending in 0 and 5. The festivities will kick off with a golf outing and events on Friday, July 18 followed by a Mass and large outdoor picnic for families on Saturday, July 19.
“We’re hoping to welcome back hundreds of alumni and their families to see all the wonderful additions and renovations at Lake Catholic and provide a time to reminisce and reconnect with former classmates.”
Ronnebaum is pleased to see enrollment on the rise, with an anticipated 162 incoming freshmen – nearly double the size of the 2025 graduating class. She’s also excited to lead stronger fundraising efforts, with a new “class challenge” breaking the record for alumni giving in one fiscal year. “Alumni have faith we’re moving in the right direction. Our new strategic plan gives them confidence to invest in a place that meant so much to them.”
A SCHOOL FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Morabeto was excited to see the broader community contributing to the strategic plan. “I enjoy rallying people around common ideals and working together as a team to move forward. We don’t want to simply secure Lake Catholic for the next five years – we all want to secure it for future generations.”
With a robust plan, he sees potential for substantial growth, supported by an increasing student enrollment and greater involvement and support by alumni.
“Just a few years ago, during the COVID-19 era, this community was concerned that the doors were going to close. Lake Catholic is now able to dream big about where we want to go and how to accomplish it. We’ve righted the ship and we’re on a course to reach for the stars – to help our current students and future children and grandkids of our alumni.”
In the area of Catholic Identity, the library has been renamed the Saint Thomas Aquinas Learning Center after the school’s patron saint, with artwork installed on the walls of this central hub space.
From left: Mike Loyet (Partners in Mission), Mike Denk (‘83), John Morabeto, Mike Creadon (‘81), Greg Markiton (Partners in Mission)
The New Faces & Spaces of Lake Catholic
New Student Clubs
Bible Study
Diversity Club
Sushi Club
Ski Club
New & Refreshed Spaces
On January 28, the Feast Day of Lake Catholic’s Patron Saint, Saint Thomas Aquinas, the former library and media center was officially dedicated the Saint Thomas Aquinas Learning Center. The space is home to more collaborative learning, tutoring and writing centers, and CCP classes.
New Faculty & Staff
Deja Bruce Nurse
Helen Petruziello Aquinas Center Facilitator
Michelle Bruce Business Manager
Heather Starr Science Teacher
The redesign and renovation project of the faculty and staff lounge was completed in September and includes a newly furnished kitchen area, new carpet, furniture and other amenities.
Creating Extraordinary Athletes
State Champs! State Champs!
For the first time in school history, Lake Catholic had State Champions in three different sports during a single academic year. In the fall, the volleyball team won its third straight title. In the winter, the boys swim team won the 200 free relay while sophomore wrestler Danny Zmorowski claimed his first state title. Three different sports with three different paths to the top.
Volleyball Three-Peats
The volleyball team had won two straight Division III state championships prior to this past season. After graduating a lot of talent, a new head coach, and moving into a new division, a three-peat wasn’t a guarantee.
“Some might think that coming in as a new coach to such a successful program is easy, but it does come with different pressures,” said new coach Tess Connolly-Alcantara (‘16). “These girls are so used to winning, so I didn’t want to come in and mess any of that up. I know, because I played here, what high standards the volleyball program has. I wanted to come in and implement some of my coaching philosophies, but most importantly, I wanted to continue the success of the program.” And that she did.
The team cruised to the Division V state title, losing only one set throughout the postseason. It’s the volleyball program’s fourth state title overall, moving it past football for the most in school history.
Wrestler Leads Program Back to Prominence
When coach Nate Skonieczny was brought on board to lead the Lake Catholic wrestling program, he knew what it took to be a high school state champion — after all, he did it twice while a student at Walsh Jesuit.
Now in his second year at the helm, he has coached a State Champion of his own. Sophomore Danny Zmorowski (‘27) won the Division III 215-pound title by a 12-3 major decision. He finished off the year with a 44-4 record.
“What a special moment that was,” Skonieczny said. “Danny was the first guy I got when I came to Lake Catholic. We talked about this moment and that it was going to happen within the first two years. This one means a lot to me. I see what he goes through every single day. He works year round and earns everything he gets.”
Zmorowski becomes the 16th wrestler in school history with a title. With two years of high school left, he has a chance to join Anthony Tutolo (‘14) and Kevon Freeman (‘18) as a multiple-time state champ. Just like his coach.
State Champs!
Swimming Breaks Through
A talented group of boys had been taking the necessary steps early in their high school careers—state qualifiers, state placers, and now state champions.
The win this year marks the first swimming state championship in school history.
The boys 200 Free Relay of Darren Bittner (‘26), Tino Perkovic (‘25), Evan Ream (‘26) and Owen Pesek (‘26) not only brought the title to Lake Catholic, but were also the first ever relay to bring a title back to Lake County.
The relay was seeded first in the state after both the sectional and district
meets, but qualified for the state finals tied for second.
Heading into the finals, coach Matt Trem made what The News-Herald called “a bold move” and changed the order of the relay.
It worked. The boys stormed from behind and beat Cincinnati Indian Hill by .03 seconds.
“I told the boys before they went down for the race that we might not have the fastest individual swimmers in the race, but we did have the best team,” Trem said. “I told them they needed to believe it, and I think they did. We were losing the entire race until the exact moment it mattered the most – the finish line.”
The History of Lake Catholic State Champions Teams
1989: Wrestling
1991: Football
1992: Football
2001: Football
2010: Volleyball
2022: Volleyball
2023: Volleyball
2024: Volleyball
Individual / Relay State Champions
1975: Dean DiLillo
Wrestling 132 pounds
1985: Mike Sullivan Wrestling
Heavyweight
1989: Vic Voinovich
Wrestling 140 pounds
1989: Dale Kaprosy
Wrestling 160 pounds
1991: Charlie Becks
Wrestling 145 pounds
1993: Dan Ambroziak
Wrestling 130 pounds
1994: Todd Haverdill
Wrestling 125 pounds
1995: Brandon Steinmetz Wrestling 130 pounds
1997: Sean Kelly
Cross Country
1998: Sean Kelly Track Two Mile
1998: Ryan Simmons Wrestling 112 pounds
1998: Mark Becks Wrestling 160 pounds
2001: Grant Savelli
Wrestling 160 pounds
2005: Trevor Bowers
Wrestling 135 pounds
2009: Je’Rica Sanders
Track 100m Hurdles
2010: Je’Rica Sanders
Track 100m Hurdles
2011: Je’Rica Sanders
Track
100m Hurdles
2013: Anthony Tutolo
Wrestling 126 pounds
2014: Anthony Tutolo
Wrestling 126 pounds
2015: Matt Ludwig
Track
300m Hurdles
2015: Connor Robinson
Matt Ludwig
Jordan Pritchard
Bruce O’Toole
Track
4x400m Relay
2016: Kevon Freeman
Wrestling 132 pounds
2017: Kevon Freeman
Wrestling 145 pounds
2018: Kevon Freeman
Wrestling 160 pounds
2022: Brendan McCrone
Wrestling 120 pounds
2025: Darren Bittner
Tino Perkovic
Evan Ream
Owen Pesek
Swimming 200 Free Relay
2025: Danny Zmorowski
Wrestling 215 pounds
A CELEBRATION OF BRILLIANCE
With nearly 500 guests filling the room with energy and enthusiasm, the night was a true testament to the strength and generosity of the
Hall of Excellence Inductees
The newest inductees to the Hall of Excellence (L-R): for Service to the School, Mike Denk (‘83); for Professional Success, Dr. Paul Tesar (‘99); and for Service to the School, Michael DeSantis, former faculty member and coach.
DIAMOND SPONSOR
CityWide Solutions
LIVE AUCTION SPONSOR
Cardinal Credit Union
DINNER BAR SPONSOR
Denk Associates
CAR RAFFLE SPONSOR
Serpentini Chevrolet of Willoughby Hills
Consolidated Solutions, Nektar Design, Lighthouse Media, and Wetzler’s Photography Thank you sponsors!
RUBY SPONSORS
Fredon and the Lake Catholic Class of 1983
SAPPHIRE SPONSORS
DavEd Jewelers, Driven 4 Group, Jakubs-Waite Funeral Home, and Klemenc Construction
QUARTZ SPONSORS
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2025
WE WILL BE HONORING THE NEWEST INDUCTEES:
SCAN FOR INDUCTEE
Abby Detering Volleyball
Mike Gibbons Football
Evan Bush Soccer
Je’Rica Sanders Track & Field
Matt Ludwig Track & Field
Our Cougar Family Tree
An Italian Legacy
Fifty years ago, four Italian families planted the seeds for what is today one of the most prolific legacies at Lake Catholic. In 1974, the family’s first Cougar entered our school, and the most recent one graduated in 2024. Along the way, the family has demonstrated deep connections, joyful celebrations and sacrificial support.
These are some of the Lake Catholic memories shared by four cousins:
Jerry Patriarca (’79), Dina (Ciano) Vanjo (’84), Jim Aveni (’85), and Gia (Reale) Cefaratti (‘91).
A WIDE CIRCLE OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Many of the best memories in this extended family revolve around making “friends for life” at Lake Catholic. Those experiences were echoed by children who followed in their footsteps, creating strong friendships and learning from teachers who remembered parents or siblings before them. This shared family history created a sense of belonging in hallways, classrooms, on sports teams, in extracurriculars, retreats and more.
Gia remembers entering Lake Catholic in 1987 with her cousin Angela (Ciano) Hill (‘91). “We had no awkward freshman stage. We were high-fiving seniors in the hall and sitting with upperclassmen at lunch, because every sibling and cousin before us paved the way. If we were late to class or didn’t know where to go, we felt so protected. There was always somebody to help out.”
Jerry’s memories are of a place with good friends, fantastic football teams, firm discipline and strong academics, with many kids coming from working-class families. His own parents were both college-educated. Like his dad, Jerry went on to become a dentist. “All the families
had high expectations, wanting us to go to college and chase the American dream. Lake Catholic was a great place to do that. I credit my parents and grandparents for their belief in Catholic education and for their sacrifices to make it happen.”
TIES THAT BIND
Dina met her future husband Chris Vanjo (’77) when he was director of a CYO play at Lake Catholic. After she graduated, they eventually married and had five children. When it was time for their oldest to start high school in 2003, Dina remembers feeling uncertain about the school’s future. “But Chris encouraged me, and it was the best decision we ever made. We were so pleased and ended up sending all our kids there. Just like when I was there, they wanted to stay after the school day ended. Lake Catholic comes alive then, with cheerleaders in the halls and practices in the gym. It’s still like that today!”
Tragedy brought these families even closer. Gia recalls being in 8th grade when her mom died of cancer at age 42. Due to her father’s illness, the four kids in the Reale family went to live with the Ciano and Patriarca families, with cousins becoming like brothers and sisters. “It’s another beautiful layer in our extended family. And
during the hardest days of our lives, the Lake Catholic community rallied around us with love and support.”
LASTING MEMORIES
Jim Aveni recalls his 1985 class as being among the school’s largest and filled with classmates of all kinds. “We all had so many diverse interests, but everybody liked each other, with nobody excluded in cliques. We had a genuine respect for each other.” From the football team to Kairos retreats, Jim grew socially and spiritually.
Like his father, Jim’s son Michael Aveni (’17) was immersed in sports at Lake Catholic, playing football and rugby – so it surprised his dad when he also got involved in the spring musical production in his junior year. He earned lead roles in It’s a Wonderful Life and Fiddler on the Roof and continued acting in college and community theater.
FAITH, FAMILY AND FOOTBALL
For all these families, faith was central to life at Lake Catholic. From theology class to retreats, Gia observed her own children becoming well-formed and faith-inspired. Her son Sammy Cefaratti (’17) entered Borromeo Catholic seminary after John Carroll University but later discerned a different path. “We are a devout family, and I feel that Lake Catholic jumpstarted that and helped mature their faith.”
Dina recalls that Lake Catholic made it a “cool thing” to go to Mass, confession, prayer services, retreats or spend time alone in the chapel. “Faith is foundational at Lake Catholic and remains important to my kids today.”
Football also created an important bond among the families. Many extended family members still attend games and support the school teams as Boosters, volunteers
This Lake Catholic family tree looms large –with branches that include 33 alumni, a current student and future generations waiting to sprout.
Ciano Family
and donors. Mike Patriarca (’78) and his brother Jerry remember being immersed in the early Lake Catholic powerhouse football era. “It was football at its best. Coach Ward was tough on us, and we loved it!” Just a few years later, their cousin Jim Aveni became part of a close-knit football squad that remains friends to this day. Like other students in the 1970s, they share great memories of the “calm before the storm,” a beloved tradition where students stayed completely silent in the halls all day until the
Patriarca Family Reale Family
final period pep rally when they burst into wild, explosive cheers.
GROWING FUTURE COUGARS
A proud grandfather of nine, Jerry looks forward to future Lake Catholic grads in the family. “We’ve got four in the pipeline now at St. Gabe’s, so that’s hopefully the plan!” Dina has five grandchildren while cousin Gia has two. “Our dream is that our ‘Baby Cougars’ go to Lake Catholic. The school is getting a refresh right now, and I hope
they bring in more students because it’s a beautiful legacy. We are so blessed!”
Jim believes in the school’s mission to instill Catholic values in the next generation. He serves on the Advisory Board, Strategic Planning committee and as 1985 Class Ambassador. “Changes in the last two years have been outstanding. The new president recognizes the importance of alumni, their hopes for the future and getting support for the school.”
Arianna Vanjo (‘08)
Carli Vanjo (‘12) Michela Vanjo (‘15 )
Chris Vanjo (‘24)
Luke Vanjo (‘20 )
Giovanna Cefaratti (‘19)
Davide Patriarca (‘24)
Dan Patriarca (‘03)
John Patriarca (‘04 )
Robby DeMarco (‘09 )
Vincenzo Patriarca (‘20)
Brenna Derylak (‘21)
Sam Cefaratti (‘17)
Jerry Patriarca (‘79)
Michael Patriarca (‘78)
Chris Patriarca (‘86)
Nikki Patriarca (‘89)
Jim Aveni (‘85)
Angela Hill (Ciano) (‘91)
Joe Reale (‘87)
Gia Cefaratti (Reale) (‘91)
Karen Mullen (Aveni) (‘83)
John Mullen (‘84)
Mario Ciano (‘99)
Toni Carr (Reale) (‘89)
Laura Pickwick (Aveni) (‘88)
Phil Ciano (‘86)
Maria Valvoda (Reale) (‘94)
Chris Vanjo (‘77)
Dina Vanjo (Ciano) (‘84)
John Mullen (‘09)
Michael Aveni (‘17)
Anna Arcadi (Ciano) (‘88)
Eric Arcadi (‘86)
Marc Ursick (’05)
To say that Marc Ursick is a busy guy is a bit of an understatement. With four children under the age of nine – including one newborn –and a nine-year-old company that’s growing faster than his kids, there’s not a lot of time to look back and reflect on where life has taken him. And life has taken him some amazing places.
Marc Ursick is the founder and CEO of Clearsulting, a company dedicated to using digital transformation to make business more streamlined for the office of the CFO. Headquartered in Cleveland, Clearsulting has team members across the US, Canada, Europe, Asia and South America. In the next year, teams will also be hitting the ground in Australia.
“The broad umbrella of what we do is finance transformation,” Marc explains. “In many cases, the office of the CFO remains very manual in nature. Clearsulting helps CFOs automate and optimize their processes.”
The concept has taken off. Marc started the company in 2015, and it’s already home to more than 300 team members and counting. And home is a big part of how Marc wants his company to feel. “I started Clearsulting because I wanted to create a culture-driven consulting business, one where openness, honesty and transparency are appreciated
and rewarded. It’s important that we hire great people who believe in this.”
Marc invests in his people as much as his business. When it was time to recruit additional help to his cause, he found the right fit with some former Cougars; his
first two hires, including his sister Monica (Ursick) Engelhardt (‘09) and Paige (Howard) Kennedy (‘09), are Lake Catholic alumni and current Partners with the firm. Two more early joiners, Ryan Fyffe (‘12) and Dan Beaufait (‘11) hold key leadership roles at Clearsulting.
Marc, his wife Michelle (a special ed teacher in Brecksville/Broadview Heights) and their children try to spend each summer living near one of his company’s offices. “It exposes the children to situations that they’re not accustomed to, which is a great learning experience.” So far, the family has lived in NYC, Chicago, Toronto, Denver and London.
“My first exposure to accounting happened at Lake Catholic. I took the first ever advanced accounting course offered at the school. That sparked my interest.”
Marc’s time at Lake Catholic was busy. Between schoolwork, a part-time 25-hour a week job and sports, he learned the art of time management and prioritization that serves him to this day. “A year after I launched Clearsulting, my first daughter
was born. When you have kids and a high demanding job, you’re almost forced to religiously prioritize your time. My experiences at Lake Catholic helped me with that. I had to dedicate myself to my studies while balancing a job.”
At Lake Catholic, he also made some of his closest friends, who he still sees regularly. The group of 15 friends spend time together for annual fantasy football trips, play in the Lake Catholic Alumni Association Basketball Tournament, and gather regularly with their families. “Back in high school, we spent a lot of time together, and we still do – now with our kids along for the fun. We’ve been best friends for over 20 years – they’re like brothers to me. They’re all doing great things in life, and we support each other every step of the way.”
With life full speed ahead, Marc credits his parents with teaching him how to be the business leader and doting father he is today. In addition to his business commitments, Marc loves coaching his kids’ sports teams. “I won the lottery with amazing parents. They consistently ingrained values in me and my siblings –treat people well, work hard and believe in yourself. It’s who I strive to be today. I’ve had the opportunity to meet some of the best leaders running the biggest companies in the world, but to this day, the number one leader I look up to is my mom – she’s the strongest leader I’ve ever met.”
“I’m blessed with the friends I made at Lake Catholic.”
– Marc Ursick
The youngest of Marc’s four children – daughter Dani – was born in February of this year.
Marc founded Clearsulting in 2015. Prior to starting the business, Marc studied accounting at Walsh University and earned his graduate degree from the University of Notre Dame while working for EY.
Teachers’ Lounge:
A Fresh Perspective
What surprised you about Lake Catholic?
“I was surprised at how welcoming and supportive my colleagues have been and how supported I feel by the administration. Lake Catholic students are the best. I was walking down the hallway one day and students who I hadn’t met yet said, “Hi, Mr. Clark!” and “Good morning, Mr. Clark!”. It is nice to know that I am surrounded by great people.”
Terry Clark Art
“The community has been incredibly supportive and welcoming. I felt at home almost right away.”
Kyle Shockey Social Studies
What do you hope to accomplish next year?
The newest teachers from across different departments provide their thoughts on their first years of teaching at Lake Catholic and what they hope to continue building upon in the future.
“I would like to build a more rigorous curriculum to engage all students.”
Lucy Pattison
Mathematics
How has your first year been? What accomplishments are you proud of?
“The first year here has been delightful. I enjoy having the opportunity to pray and practice my faith in my workplace. I’m proud of how far the students have come along this year in my class academically, emotionally, and spiritually. The students have really matured into hard-working learners.”
Chris Deighan
Science
“My first year at Lake Catholic has been great. I’ve gained more knowledge about the school and community at large, allowing me to better connect with the students. I am proud of the curriculum that I’ve built to push students to be the best they can be in my classes, as well as the projects we’ve completed throughout the year.
Gavin Lacher Mathematics
“Deliver Latin 1, 2, and 4 through Canvas. Have a record setting year in National Latin Exam award winners.
Kevin Bergdorf World Languages
Retirement
Christine Ronzi Science Department Chair
Years of Service: 24
What will you miss most about Lake Catholic?
A lot of what I will miss centers around the students. I will miss seeing their faces when they realize that they can do the hard work and be successful. I will miss seeing the impact that the science classes have on their futures. I loved hearing from previous students about how they felt so prepared and empowered in college because of our classes. That’s the good stuff in teaching. That’s why teachers do what they do. We hope to educate students to go out into the world, make a difference and do good. It’s rewarding to know that in some small way you helped.
What is your favorite memory of Lake Catholic?
In 24 years, there are just too many to only pick one. How about I pick from this year? Bringing back the Foods and Nutrition class was a highlight (shout out to Ms. Frindt for having the idea and for using her powers of persuasion to convince me to develop and teach it). The class culminated with our first Master Chef competition. It was so great to see the head chefs take charge, planning a menu and implementing it. The second highlight would have to be our Food Drive during the first semester. We exceeded all others in the amount that we collected for the Cleveland Food Bank. It was awesome seeing the students, faculty, staff and our extended community making a difference in others’ lives.
What are you looking forward to the most about retirement? I am most looking forward to volunteering and spending more time with the people I love. Animals have always had a special place in my heart, so I plan on devoting some time to working at an animal rescue and maybe adding one to be a buddy for our dog Ellie. Secondly, I am interested in working at the Gathering Place where cancer patients come for needed services. I am certified as a Reiki practitioner, so I will be available to them for anyone needing treatment. For me, it is important to give back. I hope to make life a little easier for those whom God brings into my life.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without Mrs. Ronzi. She is the driving force that sparked my interest in science, and her class offered so much more than just academic knowledge. For me, Mrs. Ronzi’s class was never just another subject – it was 42 minutes filled with learning, passion and, most importantly, fun. Before taking her class, I never considered a career in science, but her influence pushed me to explore medical school, DPT school and PA school, eventually leading me to Strength and Conditioning. Mrs. Ronzi’s dedication to teaching was unparalleled, but what truly set her apart was her genuine care for her students. She was always attentive to our well-being and made sure we knew how much she valued us as individuals. Looking back, the highlight of my time at Lake Catholic was the year I had the privilege of being in Mrs. Ronzi’s class. All the credit for my success, and the success of so many others, goes to her. Thank you Mrs. Ronzi!”
– Aaron Leovic (‘20), CSCS, USAW
“Mrs. Ronzi played an integral role in my education at Lake Catholic High School and beyond. Through her Honors Biology and Honors Anatomy and Physiology classes I became interested in the science/medical field. Her classes not only gave me a solid foundation but also taught me how to be organized, study hard and stay focused throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies. I have enjoyed coming back to my high school as an alumna and talking and interacting with her recent classes. She has been a great asset to the Lake Catholic Science Department and will be greatly missed! Thank you Mrs. Ronzi!” – Rachel Rogowski (‘17), PA-S
“I started school at Lake Catholic in 2001, the same year Mrs. Ronzi joined, so you could say we were “freshmen” together. My biology class with her was one of my favorite classes during my high school tenure – not because it was my favorite subject, but because she made learning interesting and her approach to teaching was compassionate. Congratulations, Mrs. Ronzi, on a well-deserved retirement! ” – Regi Strauss (‘05)
Alumni Updates
1980s
Dee Dee (Ciancibello) Slogar (‘85) was recently named Birthright Lake Inc’s Volunteer of the Quarter.
Christine Blake (‘86) was named a finalist for the 2024 Luminaries Awards by the Credit Union Times.
Maria Randazzo
2000s
Father Lukas Laniauskas (‘02), pastor at Gesu Parish, was elected to represent the religious communities serving in the Diocese of Cleveland and will serve a fiveyear term on Presbyteral Council.
The Columbus Crew announced they have re-signed goalkeeper Evan Bush (‘04) for the 2025 Major League Soccer season.
Maria Randazzo (‘05) appeared in a national Pepsi campaign for Pepsi Zero Sugar.
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
Patrick M. Walsh (‘76)
Holly Burke (‘78)
Neil Kocianic (‘83)
Kerie Lyn Hirsch-Headley (‘97)
John Love Jr. (‘18)
Ken Brickman (‘19)
Michael LoConti (‘19)
Daniel Nicola (’23)
FORMER EMPLOYEES
Thomas Ward
FRIENDS OF LAKE CATHOLIC
Walter Ackley
Mary Ann Blakeley
Monica (Mullen) Denk
John McLeod
Paul Newsome
George Trebets
Kerry Jonke (‘05) and Katie Baden (‘08) were named two of the four “Under 40 Emerging Leaders” by the United Way of Lake County.
Vince Petruziello (‘06) celebrated his 10-year anniversary at Paychex.
Steven Kramer (‘09) was promoted to the Director of Adjudication for the Industrial Commission of Ohio.
2010s
Nathan Lyons (‘11) recently started a new position as Underwriting Operations Assistant at ARU.
Matt Ludwig (‘15) has been elected as the USATF Athletes’ Commission Men’s Vertical Jumps Event Leader for this next Olympic Quad (through 2028).
Nicole Resetar (‘16) is the athletic trainer for the Seton High School volleyball team which won the Ohio Division I volleyball state championship in 2024.
Matthew Kirchner (‘18) relocated to Denver, joining several key members of the Brookfield Real Property Tax Department at Brookfield Properties.
Nolan Adams (‘19) was promoted to Director of Sales Development at The SpyGlass Group, LLC.
Jesse Cox (‘19) started a new role at KeyBank as a Senior Specialist on the Default Escalation Team.
Mallory Lough (‘19) and Dre Druzina (‘19) got engaged in 2024.
2020s
Eileen Globakar (‘20) was hired in the Chicago office of Aegis Worldwide, which specializes in contract and permanent job placement in the Engineering and Manufacturing industries.
Ali Morgan (‘20) earned the Legal AI Education Certificate from Wickard-Case Western Reserve University School of Law. She also accepted a Federal Judicial Externship for The Honorable Richard A. Lanzillo at the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Luke Frazier (‘20) scored his 1,000th basketball career point at John Carroll in November. At the end of the regular season, he was named the Ohio Athletic Conference Player of the Year.
Aaron Leovec (‘20) is attending Duke University as an Intern with the Olympic Strength and Conditioning Staff while working towards his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification.
Colin McCrone (‘20) started a new position as SMB Account Manager, Southeast Region at Park Place Technologies.
Nicole Resetar (‘16)
(‘05)
Katie Baden (‘08)
Kerry Jonke (‘05)
Kate Minton (‘21) graduated early from the University of Dayton with a degree in Marketing with an emphasis in Insight Sales and recently became a Licensed Ohio Real Estate Agent with eXp Realty.
Luke Rako (‘21), Sean Gibbons (‘21) and Luke Hadley (‘21) all completed the Columbus Marathon in October.
Maddie Frisbie (‘22) took on the role of Director of Membership for Phi Chi Theta - Epsilon Phi Chapter, a Premier Co-Ed Professional Business Fraternity, at Michigan State University.
Andrew Thielman (‘22) will be a Financial Representative Intern at Northwestern Mutual this summer.
Mackenzie Brugh (’23), a sophomore at The Ohio State University, is a video assistant and helped film the College Football Playoff National Championship.
Dom Cosic (‘23) will join EY’s Cleveland office as an AssuranceTechnology Risk Intern in the summer of 2026.
Dan Malchesky (‘23) was elected as the Internal Vice President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity Ohio Theta Chapter. He also started a new position as Data Analyst at The Ohio State University.
Lauren Olenik (‘23) started a new position as Vice President of Cohorts at Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers at The Ohio State University.
Samantha Peters (‘23) will be a Project Management Intern at Park Place Technologies this summer.
Michael Skalicki (‘23) will begin his Electrical Engineering Internship at Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. this summer.
Mia Slogar (‘23) was elected as Vice President of Internal Affairs for the Beta Nu chapter of Kappa Kappa Gamma at The Ohio State University.
Sophia Trem (‘23) was elected as Vice President of New Member Education & Member Experience for the Eta Gamma chapter of Alpha Phi at the University of Akron.
Andrew Zalar (‘23) has been named to the Phi Chi Theta + Zeta Nu’s 2025 Executive Board and Leadership team and was selected to join the Buckeye Leadership Fellows Program 2027 cohort at The Ohio State University.
Stay Connected With Your Cougar Family!
Have you moved, changed jobs, pursued higher education, gotten married, had a baby, or fulfilled a life goal or milestone recently? Scan the QR code or visit lakecatholic.org/alumni to share your personal or professional accomplishments with the Lake Catholic community.
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, 2012, 2015, 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.
Luke Rako (‘21), Sean Gibbons (‘21) and Luke Hadley (‘21)
Mackenzie Brugh (‘23) and other members of the video production team with Jack Sawyer after the National Championship Game
Cougar Reunions & Alumni Events
Class of 2019 – 5th Reunion December 2024
“It is crazy to think it’s already been five years since we last walked the halls together! Reconnecting with classmates at our reunion was truly special, and the memories and laughter came rushing back like no time had passed. We missed those who weren’t able to join us, but we’re already looking forward to the reunions still to come in the years ahead.” – Luka Viskovic
Over 50 alumni from the classes of 2014-2024 reconnected with old friends and celebrated the holidays at Lake Catholic’s first young alumni event — a Christmas Pop-Up Party in December.
Class Challenge
The second annual Class Challenge was an overwhelming success, with a total of $193,756 raised to support Lake Catholic students!
Congratulations to the Class of 1981 which raised the most funds ($36,165) and to the Class of 1976 which had the highest participation rate (31.9%).
LAKE CATHOLIC GRAND REUNION
Join us for a special celebration honoring alumni from class years ending in 0 and 5!
FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2025
Alumni Association Golf Classic
Celebrating 50 Years: Dinner for Class of 1975
Individual Class Gatherings
SATURDAY, JULY 19, 2025
Afternoon Mass
Barbecue Picnic: All 0 and 5 Class Years and Families
SUNDAY, JULY 20, 2025
Lake County Captains Game
SCAN FOR MORE DETAILS
Dear Lake Catholic Community,
As I reflect on the 2024-25 school year, I have immense gratitude and pride in the accomplishments of our students, faculty and staff. It has been a time of extraordinary growth, achievement and forward momentum for our school.
Our faculty’s dedication to excellence has been evident in the implementation of our new professional development plan, with a focus on teacher clarity. This initiative has led to noticeable improvements in instructional effectiveness and student engagement. The results speak for themselves—our student body has achieved the highest academic performance in over a decade, a true testament to the hard work of our students and the unwavering support of our teachers.
Lake Catholic’s proud tradition of athletic excellence has continued to shine. Our volleyball team secured a historic three-peat as State Champions, our swim team celebrated its first-ever State Championship relay, and our wrestling team made a strong return to the State Championship arena. These accomplishments reflect the dedication, discipline and spirit that define Cougar athletics.
Our community continues to grow. Enrollment is on the rise, positioning us to welcome more students, faculty and staff in the coming year. This growth is a sign of the trust and confidence placed in the mission of Lake Catholic, and we remain committed to providing an exceptional faith-filled education to all who walk through our doors.
Beyond academics and athletics, our commitment to faith formation remains at the heart of all that we do. This year, we strengthened our Catholic identity through dynamic retreats, service projects and a renewed focus on student and staff formation. These efforts ensure that our students not only succeed in the classroom but also grow as disciples of Christ.
As we look ahead, we do so with excitement and determination. The progress we have made— academically, athletically and spiritually—has set a strong foundation for the future. I am grateful to our students, faculty, parents, alumni and supporters for their continued partnership in making Lake Catholic the incredible community that it is.
Together, we will continue to move forward with faith, excellence and Cougar pride.
God Bless,
Thomas E. McKrill (‘07) Principal Lake Catholic High School
