Explorer - Winter 2023

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2023

Explorer

POWER

of

C O N C E N T R AT I O N S

HALL OF FAME INDUCTION MARCH 5, 2023 10:00 AM CHARLES “OBIE” O’BRIEN GYMNASIUM

MASS WILL BE CELEBRATED IN THE AUDITORIUM AT 9:00 AM

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES MICHAEL A. O’TOOLE ’68 A D M I N I S T R AT O R A N D E D U C AT O R JOSEPH A. MIHALICH ’74 BASKETBALL COACH WILLIAM J. WHELAN ’55 ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS JASON H. SPERA ’89 JOHN J. WALLS III ’89 CHRISTAN BROTHERS’ SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT JULIA K. MAHER ’14(HON)

WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURES

8 A SPARK OF INSPIRATION

Explorer THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2023

President Brother James L. Butler, FSC

ARTICLES

12 GLOBAL BUSINESS CONCENTRATION PROGRAM OFFERS F I R S T- H A N D G U I D A N C E A N D E X P E R I E N C E

14 DIGITAL MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION CONCENTRATION WILL PREPARE STUDENTS FOR E V O LV I N G C A R E E R PAT H S

16 A STORIED CAREER I N L A S A L L I A N E D U C AT I O N

18 A COACH WITH MORE THAN X’S AND O’S

Principal James E. Fyke Vice President of Institutional Advancement Daniel L. McGowan Editor Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Contributing Writers Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Matt Cosentino Samuel Donnellon Michael J. Winning ’74 Christine Wolkin Editorial and Production Assistance Cathleen P. Winning Photography James Beaver Alison Dunlap Lifetouch Photography, Inc. Sam Fritch Art Direction and Design Burns Design Group Address Explorer La Salle College High School

HIGHLIGHTS

8605 Cheltenham Avenue

4

Wyndmoor, PA 19038

MOMENTS

of D I S T I N C T I O N 20

PHOTO GALLERIES HALL OF ATHLETICS INDUCTION AUCTION DINNER DANCE

215 233 2350 phone 215 836 4502 fax alumni@lschs.org www.lschs.org The Explorer is published three times a year by La Salle College High School. The Explorer welcomes letters to the Editor concerning alumni, school, and other topics covered by and in the magazine.

The Editor of the Explorer reserves the right edit and make all decisions regarding the content and information published in the magazine.

DEPARTMENTS

2

LET US REMEMBER (LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT)

26

NEWS NOTES

30 WE WELCOME AND REMEMBER ( B I R T H S A N D D E AT H S )

MISSION STATEMENT La Salle College High School, a Catholic independent, college preparatory school for young men of varied backgrounds, is conducted in the tradition of Saint John Baptist de La Salle. Through a broad and balanced, human and Christian education, La Salle College High School guides each student in the development of his unique Godgiven talents and fosters a commitment to academic excellence, service, and leadership.

DEPARTMENTS

L E T

U S

R E M E M B E R

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

DEAR LA SALLE FAMILY, If you were to visit La Salle today, you would discover that the two end classrooms on the first and second floors of McLean Hall have a somewhat different look to them. Variably called innovative classrooms, or classrooms of the future, these rooms don’t have whiteboards, let alone chalkboards. The paint applied to the walls allows for being written on and erased, so students can put up problems just about anywhere. Pupil desks can be coupled together in pods for group tasks or separated for testing and other solo work. Several monitors allow students to dock their laptops and show work to their group or the whole class.

The absence of this “front of the room” is not

Rather, he relentlessly probes, requires students

simply a question of fashion, a reflection of the

to elucidate their thinking, poses counter

fact that departments have office space at La

arguments. As principal also, his nine years

Salle, or a concrete way to inculcate the maxim,

focused on “teaching excellence” have resulted

“good teachers never sit in the classroom.” It is a

at La Salle in an instructional climate that is

window onto a whole different style of teaching

stimulating, student-centered, and focused

recognized as more effective and relevant in

on continuous growth by students, whatever

the third decade of the twenty-first century. The

their ability level. These classroom prototypes

lecturing teacher at the podium dispensing

piloted this year harvest the pedagogical seeds

knowledge, even on a platform in some earlier

he planted.

La Salle classrooms, has been removed from his perch. Now, information is everywhere, and the challenge is not so much accessing it but evaluating available data, constructing new knowledge from the interaction of what is already available and the insights of a group of

Those used to traditional arrangements would

learners. The teacher’s role transitions to that of

likely enter these rooms and puzzle at the

a guide, a mentor—a coach, if you will.

arrangement of furniture a bit before asking an obvious question, “Where’s the front?” Each room totally lacks the traditional teacher’s desk and chair with podium on a central axis anchoring the room to “the front,” ordinarily in close proximity to a door.

Think of coaching in the context of La Salle alumni, and few names would come to mind more quickly and elicit more respect than that of Joe Mihalich ’74. Born in the shadow of La Salle College (as it then was), a professor’s son, he grew up in the world of Big Five basketball and played at both La Salles himself before a three-decade career as head coach

Mike O’Toole ’68 was an instructor who

at Niagara and Hofstra, including frequent

understood the “teacher as coach” model

championship appearances. Still involved on

years before it came into pedagogical and

La Salle University’s staff today, he coaches all

psychological high repute. His classes, while

of us now on how to deal with life’s inevitable

always rigorous, were and are rarely focused

challenges with an inspirational grace, wisdom,

on student mastery of things he already knows.

and serenity.

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“

”

…Jesus Christ compares those who have charge of souls to a good shepherd who has great care for the sheep.

You will also read in this issue of the Explorer

As should be no surprise, John Baptist de

This taxonomy of student or athlete types can

information regarding exciting developments

La Salle approached teaching from something

still be found in any classroom today, on any

in our new Concentrations program. During

of a coaching perspective three and a third

bench or sideline. Following de La Salle’s

the 2023-24 school year, we will be featuring

centuries ago, alien as the concept of athletic

blueprint for how to attend to the developmental

five “live” concentrations: Global Business,

competition might have been to him. In his

needs of your students and players may not get

Engineering and Robotics, IT Professional,

famous

you into the PIAA or NCAA playoffs every year,

Music Professional, and Digital Media and

Founder observes:

Communications.

Another

in

the

health

professions continues in active discussion. The Concentrations program itself works on more of a coaching model than a direct instruction approach to learning. Students aren’t just presented

information,

they’re

placed

in

situations where they must use what they know, garner insight from observation and participation, reflect actively on the fit between their academic learning, evolving real-world experiences, and the mentoring of alumni, parents, and others who are established in the field. Adults on the school’s faculty and beyond provide guidance, perspective, and refinement as the students “try on” careers that might remain as vague aspirations for years to come in the traditional model.

Good

Shepherd

Meditation,

the

In today’s Gospel Jesus Christ compares those who have charge of souls to a good shepherd who has great care for the sheep. One quality

but it will secure you a place in the hearts and

minds of former students and athletes such as that held by Joe Mihalich and Michael O’Toole.

Fraternally,

he must possess, according to our Savior, is to know each one of them individually. This ought also to be one of the main concerns of those who instruct others: to be able to understand

BROTHER JAMES L. BUTLER, FSC

their students and to discern the right way to

PRESIDENT

guide them. They must show more mildness toward some, more firmness toward others.

There are those who call for much patience, those who need to be stimulated and spurred on, some who need to be reproved and punished to correct them of their faults, others who must be constantly watched over to prevent them from being lost or going astray.

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HIGHLIGHTS

MOMENTS

of D I S T I N C T I O N COLLEGE INTERVIEW DAY On October 4, 2022, the Class of 2023 participated in the school’s annual College Interview Day. Held in the school gymnasium, 67 admissions representatives (an in-person record) from 55 colleges and universities were in attendance. Seniors were scheduled for individual appointments with the colleges of their choice. In the exchange, seniors presented their transcripts, had the opportunity to provide additional personal information, and asked questions about the colleges and universities.

GOLDEN EXPLORERS RETURN TO CAMPUS Over 100 Golden Explorers – alumni who graduated more than fifty years ago from La Salle College High School – returned to campus on October 4, 2022 for the annual Golden Explorers Reception. Will Ryan ’23 spoke

CLASS OF 2026

to the alumni about life at La Salle today and reunions were celebrated

La Salle College High School opened its doors on August 18, 2022 for

by the Classes of 1952, 1957, 1962, and 1967. The event provided an

the start of the school’s 164th academic year. Over 300 boys from local

opportunity to catch up with old friends and classmates, reminisce about

middle and elementary schools were welcomed to the Class of 2026 by

the glory days at “20th and Olney” and “8605” as well as learn about the

the faculty, staff, and administration with various orientation activities.

exciting things going on at their alma mater.

The students were greeted at the entrance of the school by Brother James Butler, FSC, Principal James Fyke, senior members of the Student Council, the Explorer mascot, and the sounds of the Pep Band.

NEW MOTHERS’ TEA The Mothers’ Club welcomed new mothers to the La Salle community on September 11, 2022 at the annual New Mother’s Tea. Over 250 mothers attended the event that was held in the gymnasium. Brother James Butler, FSC, Principal James Fyke, and Mothers’ Club President, Mrs. Nancy Matthews, spoke to the mothers regarding different aspects of life at La Salle College High School. The mothers enjoyed light refreshments and came away with many new acquaintances.

OPEN HOUSE Over 300 families toured the buildings and campus during the Open House on September 25, 2022. Personal tours were conducted by

GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS

Student Ambassadors, which allowed families to visit particular areas

On October 5, 2022, the Golf Team won the Philadelphia Catholic

of interest. Music filled the air as over 100 musicians performed

League Championship at Jeffersonville Golf Club. The Explorers’ overall

throughout the day. All nineteen athletic teams were in the gym along

score of 455 was 23 strokes better than Saint Joseph’s Prep and 44

with the academic departments, and over 50 clubs and activities were

strokes better than Devon Prep. It was the 7th consecutive Philadelphia

represented in the Glaser Center. Trolleys with student guides provided

Catholic League Championship for the Explorers and their 19th title since

tours of the school’s 84-acre campus.

2000. La Salle was led by junior John Stevenson who fired a 2-over par round of 72, finishing second overall, Ten Explorers shot 80 or better and received All-Catholic honors. The following week, the Explorers repeated as District 12 Champions and went on to defeat Liberty High School (Bethlehem, PA), the District 11 Champions, by 11 strokes to advance to the finals of the Pennsylvania State Championship for fifth time in six years.

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FRESHMAN BRANCH-OUT DAY

CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

On October 11, 2022, the freshman class (Class of 2026) participated

The Cross Country team captured the Philadelphia Catholic League

in Freshman Branch-Out Day. Over 300 students, along with almost

Championship on October 22, 2022 for the 7th consecutive year and

200 of their fathers and 30 members of school’s faculty and staff,

14th time since 2003 by scoring 18 points as senior captain Drew Brill

performed a day of service at 21 different “under-served” sites in the

captured individual honors with a time of 16:14 at Belmont Plateau. The

Philadelphia Area. This year marked the 20th year that the freshman

following week, La Salle repeated as District 12 Champions to advance

class at La Salle College High School has “branched out” in service to

to the Pennsylvania State Championship in Hershey, PA, where they

the community. In total, almost 550 members of the La Salle community

finished in second place. The runner-up finish marked the 6th consecutive

collectively provided over 1,600 hours of service to these organizations.

podium (Top 2) finish for the Explorers, who were State Champions in

The day concluded with a discussion about the integral role community

2017 and have now finished 2nd in the five years since then.

service plays in the Lasallian mission and a challenge to the freshman to find their role in that mission.

HONORS CONVOCATION La Salle College High School held its annual Academic Convocation on October 20, 2022 and awarded a Scholastic “L” to 384 First Honor Students – 154 seniors, 98 juniors, and 132 sophomores – who distinguished themselves by attaining a final grade point average of 3.75 or above and no grade below a “B-” at the conclusion of the 2021-2022 academic year. In addition, 223 boys – 92 seniors, 66 juniors, and 65

JUNIOR CLASS CELEBRATES LEADERSHIP

sophomores – were recognized for having a final GPA of 4.0 or higher

On November 13, 2022, over 260 members of the Class of 2024,

at the conclusion of the 2021-2022 school year. Mark Gibbons ’92 and

along with their families, attended the Brother Edward Gallagher, FSC

Mark Chesnik were recognized for their 25 years of service to La Salle

Leadership Liturgy. Named in honor of Brother Edward Gallagher, FSC

College High School and Daniel Spinelli, Jr. ’14 was the guest speaker.

who twice served as Principal of La Salle College High School (196669 and 1972-77), the event marked the transition to leadership for the junior class. The day began with a Mass celebrated in the gymnasium by

ONE ACT PLAYS The Theater Program at La Salle College High School performed six one act plays – including two student-written and student-directed shows – as part of the school’s Annual One Act Play Festival held in the auditorium

Reverend Louis Monica, Jr. and concluded with a leadership pledge along with the blessing and presentation of the Class of 2024 Leadership Pin along with class rings for those who purchased them.

October 21-22, 2022. A group of 26 actors and actresses staged two performances of the plays.

EVERY CAN COUNTS The Thanksgiving Food Drive to benefit Saint Vincent’s Parish in Germantown and La Salle’s Pheed Philly service initiative wrapped up on November 21, 2022. Over 14,000 cans and non-perishable food items were collected by the La Salle community and were used to benefit families in need around the Thanksgiving holiday and throughout the year.

A Thanksgiving Prayer Service organized by the Mission and Ministry Leadership Team was held in the gymnasium on November 22, 2022 and attended by the entire student-body. Students packed the food into boxes and prepared it for transport to the pantry at Saint Vincent’s Parish in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, which serves those in need in North Philadelphia.

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MOMENTS

of D I S T I N C T I O N

SENIOR MOTHERS TRIM TREE Over 225 mothers of seniors gathered in the auditorium on November 29, 2022 to decorate and light one of the many Christmas Trees on campus during the Christmas Season. This annual tradition where each mother (or grandmother) hangs a Christmas ornament inscribed with the name of their son brought together mothers from the Class of 2023 for a special moment to commemorate their son’s time at La Salle College High School. A reception was held, and the evening concluded with a candle ceremony and special prayer.

MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS

SOUNDS OF THE SEASON The Music Department at La Salle College High School performed their annual Christmas Concert to a capacity crowd in the auditorium on December 5, 2022. The concert featured almost 200 musicians in seven different ensembles, performing fifteen numbers. The Honors Advanced Band closed out the concert with Home For The Holidays and Sleigh Ride.

During the morning hours of Christmas Eve, over 120 students (30 Santas and 94 elves) delivered presents to the homes of 80 pediatric oncology and hematology patients from Saint Christopher’s Hospital for Children. The day marked the 22nd consecutive year that La Salle College High School has partnered with Committee to Benefit the Children to bring the “Miracle of Christmas” to these children and their siblings. The La Salle community purchased gifts that were wrapped,

The following week, on December 12, 2022, the Choral Program treated the audience in the auditorium to fourteen arrangements featuring the voices of over 70 young men in the two ensembles under the direction of Mr. Mark Norman, who performed numbers that included

tagged, bagged, and delivered to over 250 children on the morning of Christmas Eve. Additional gifts were donated by families who “adopted” patients and their siblings. Over 30 parents and alums accompanied the students as they made deliveries into twelve counties in two states.

Do You Hear What I Hear?, It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, Angels We Have Heard On High, and White Christmas.

LEGACY RECEPTION La Salle College High School hosted its annual Legacy Reception in the Glaser Center on January 10, 2023, where nearly 200 past, present, and future Explorers — across three generations — gathered to share their Lasallian stories, connect with classmates and friends, and welcome members of the Class of 2027 with familial connections to La Salle.

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SCHOLARSHIP RECEPTION – CLASS OF 2027 La Salle College High School awarded 62 scholarships to 8th grade boys and, on January 12, 2023, the La Salle community hosted these young men along with their parents and a favorite teacher from their grade school, at a Scholarship Reception. The guests were hosted at their table by a current senior along with a member of the faculty/staff and addressed by current seniors Thomas Eble and Sebastian Barnes along with Brother James, Butler, FSC. SILENT NIGHT Friday, January 13, 2023 was far from unlucky for La Salle College High School as the Varsity Basketball Team defeated Conwell-Egan Catholic High School by 26 points on “Silent Night,” an annual event that dates back to 2012. The students dress in costume and remain silent until the Explorers score their tenth point and then go berserk and maintain highenergy for the remainder of the game. Over 600 students pack the stands opposite the home and away benches and become the ultimate “sixth man.” The costumes are creative, the atmosphere is electric, and the brotherhood and solidarity is infectious.

SEVENTEEN SENIORS RECOGNIZED BY THE NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC®) announced the names of over 16,000 Semifinalists in the 68th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered next spring. Less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors qualify for this prestigious honor. The following Explorers were named 2022 National Merit Semifinalists: Sebastian Barnes , Evan Cohen, Matthew Giordano, Harrison Glover, and Alexander Ippoliti. The following students were named as 2022 Commended Students: Matthew Dalfo, Joseph Gleason, Connor Goldfarb, Jack Gorovitz, Jonathan Guza, Shane Hannan, Liam Keenan, Cabot Morrissey, Justin Muttreja, Elio Shiffman, Christopher White, and Kevin White.

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FEATURE

A SPARK of INSPIRATION La Salle College High School’s new Concentrations Program helps students discover their passions, focus on goals, and prepare meaningfully for college and beyond.

By Matt Cosentino It’s no secret that teenage boys tend to lose their focus, which is why the educators who are tasked with getting them back on track are constantly in search of new ways to motivate them. An inspired student can reach dizzying heights, but one who is struggling to see the purpose of his studies may end up mired in complacency.

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FEATURE

La Salle College High School,

The Concentrations Program,

has implemented a forward-thinking program

which kicked off in September of 2022, is open

to provide students with a unique opportunity

to all students starting in their sophomore year,

while addressing that concern with a new

although they must meet certain requirements

initiative known as the Concentrations Program.

and maintain a B average in the core courses.

Similar to a college major, the program

The three initial areas of study are engineering

enables students to choose among three

and global business—based on popular college

concentrations—with more to come in the

majors for many La Salle graduates—as well

future—and discover a path toward realizing

as information technology, which already had a

their passion and purpose.

strong existing foundation at the school.

“What jumped out at me about

Through the program, students

specialty programs at La Salle like Robotics,

take core courses and interesting new

Band, and IT Lab Mangers is the commitment

electives. They also participate in related clubs

from the students and the amount of learning

and activities, create professional portfolios,

they get when they dive in and they are fully

complete capstone projects, have opportunities

invested,” says Principal Jim Fyke, who helped

to earn credentials and certifications, and

develop Concentrations with the full support

engage in off-campus internships. The process

and guidance of Brother James Butler, FSC.

is heavy on experiential learning and giving

“It’s far superior to traditional models that are

students a chance to take an active role in their

just concerned with testing and telling kids what

education.

they’re going to need in college. When students commit to something, their level of involvement and engagement, and what they get out of it is just unbelievable.”

“A lot of people talk about experiential learning, but not many people do it,” says Dan Cipolla, a longtime physics teacher at La Salle and chair of the engineering arm of the Concentrations.

“That’s the idea, to combine classroom learning with experiential learning. I think for a lot of these guys, the opportunity gets them excited about it possibly being a career for them and gets them motivated to do even better.”

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“On the one hand, this will expose is new to La Salle this year after serving as principal at Central Catholic High School in students to a certain field Pittsburgh. He was drawn to La Salle in part or career path, and they because of this groundbreaking program, which can pursue it in college he feels not only sparks intellectual curiosity but also gives students a better understanding and have a head start,” of what it will mean to major in these fields in Fyke says. “But the other college and pursue a career in them. thing that’s interesting is “La Salle College some students will do this and realize that maybe a High School is one of certain field isn’t for them the gems of our Lasallian and they’re not going network, which includes to major in it, which is almost 50 high schools probably just as valuable. in the United States and You don’t want to spend schools in 80 countries,” he says. “Having a number two years in college, spend all that money, and of these concentrations and not being exclusionary then end up switching majors or transferring but trying to offer something that will engage schools.” and excite almost every The internships, which are still one of our students, is the being developed, will take place at various strength of this program.” times, but ideally in the summer before the Brother Tony Baginski, FSC,

chair of the global business concentration,

student’s senior year.

Principal Fyke expects that “We are working with some of

students who participate in the Concentrations Program will focus better in non-core classes

our alumni, and we actually met with our board

such as English and history while honing

of trustees to get a sense of the skills they

skills such as public speaking and writing that

would be looking for if they were hiring kids

they will surely need later in life. Meanwhile,

for a two-week internship, or even a summer

electives in a chosen concentration, whether it’s

internship,” Cipolla says. “They said it was a

advanced computer-aided design in engineering

really great concept and, if the guys had certain

or East Asian studies in global business, will

skills, it would be a win-win situation.”

give them a leg up should they continue the same track in college.

Baginski is also counting on La Salle’s vast network, whether through alumni, parents, or staff, to provide valuable resources in the classroom. Having members of the network speak with students about their personal experiences can provide valuable

“For example, we’re having a retired alum who spent a number of years overseas in China, India, and Japan,” he says.

“Just talking to him briefly, you get this idea of what it means to be in international business. It can spark both interest and questions, and the more that we can get our alumni and supporters in front of our students, and the students in front of them, the more it’s going to pay off immensely.”

La Salle already has a renowned music program, and that will be one of three new concentrations starting next year, along with multimedia communications and health sciences. Three more will be added the following year, with nonprofit management and data analysis and statistics under consideration.

Fyke is grateful to the school’s leadership team for committing to the program, allocating funds, and hiring new faculty to teach these courses. He is also optimistic about the future of Concentrations and the way it will impact future students.

“When high school boys don’t have a goal or a plan, they’re notorious for floundering,” he says.

“They don’t see the point to some classes, and when they don’t see the point, they don’t seem to perform. I hope this helps them see the point.

“My focus is always on the students we have, the quality of their education, and their seriousness of purpose for it,” he continues. “But there’s no doubt that this is going to attract families who will recognize this is an amazing opportunity for their sons, and it can help with the college application process as well.”

context that drives home lessons learned from a textbook.

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ARTICLES

GLOBAL BUSINESS CONCENTRATION PROGRAM OFFERS FIRST-HAND GUIDANCE AND EXPERIENCE

By Sam Donnellon EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2023 12

When he graduated from La Salle College High School in 1985, Tim McNamara thought he might want to go into business someday. Years later, after leaving his commission as a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy to teach high school, he decided to start a summer hot dog business at the Jersey Shore.

“I really didn’t know what the

As the program develops,

“The idea of all these

heck I was getting into,’’ he says, laughing.

In turning Bubba’s Hot Dogs into a well-known Sea Isle spot, McNamara had to learn by doing, while suffering all the costs

concentrations is to give your son an insight into

McNamara and Brother Anthony hope to

what the career possibilities are and also what

develop short internships in which the student

the requirements are academically in college

spends as much as a week inside the business

to make that connection in the student’s mind

of a La Salle alumnus – even an alumnus who is

between what’s going on within the four walls

in the early stages of a career himself.

of a classroom and their future,’’ says Brother

incurred by the inevitable mistakes. Now a teacher at La Salle College High School, his is

Anthony.

“For many of these high school

just one of the life experiences he and Brother

students to talk to somebody who’s 25 years

Anthony Baginski, FSC present to students

That explains, says McNamara,

old and can say, ’well two years ago I started

involved in La Salle’s first-year Global Business

why some of the concentration electives don’t,

my first full-time job and here’s how it went is

Concentration Program.

at first glance, sound very business-like. But

beneficial,’’’ says Brother Anthony. “’Here’s

both Public Speaking and East Asian Studies

what I did for interviews. Here are some things

are handy tools when it comes to the global

that I recommend, here’s some of the mistakes

business world.

that I made that I hope you avoid.’

Global Business is the newest of what are now three concentration programs developed at the school in the past year. Like the IT Concentration and the Engineering Concentration, Global Business students take seminar courses, create professional portfolios, and complete capstone projects. The program will include guest lectures, field trips, immersion experiences, site visits, and above all mentoring from La Salle’s loyal alums.

“The idea is for them to have more knowledge, to make better choices,’’ he says. “Maybe they decide they are interested in East Asian Studies as a minor to their business major. So, they look for a college that offers that.’’

McNamara and Baginski both joined La Salle’s Social Science Department this fall as teachers. Baginski was the principal of Central Catholic in Pittsburgh for the last

“We have a pretty esteemed alumni group, folks that have done pretty darn well,’’ says Brother Anthony. “And a lot of those folks are already very excited about stepping up and helping us out. We may even have dinners around a conference table with some of our successful alumni.

“This program may still be very young. But there is already lots and lots of momentum behind it.’’

seven years, but actually began his path with an 11-year stint as a commissioned officer in the Coast Guard before becoming a teacher and ultimately joining the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

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ARTICLES

DIGITAL MEDIA AND COMMUNICATION CONCENTRATION WILL PREPARE STUDENTS FOR EVOLVING CAREER PATHS

By Sam Donnellon When La Salle’s Innovation and Design Department Chair Robert Johnson attended high school 25 years ago, most everything was siloed in terms of preparing students for careers in media and mass communications.

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“If you wanted to be a journalist, you just took writing classes,” says Johnson, La Salle’s director of digital strategy. “If you wanted to be a media guy, you just took video editing courses.”

Today, the skill sets of those in media, public relations, marketing, and other communications careers are evolving. “This media landscape is so connected now where if you are going write, they expect you to write and know how to tweet and know how to take photos and produce video content,” he says.

To meet those challenges, La Salle’s curriculum is adapting, too. In 2023, La Salle College High School will launch a Digital Media and Communication Concentration Program that will expose students to an assortment of careers that are constantly evolving.

Students will use the WEXPtv Media Program’s state-of-the-art studio to jumpstart themselves on paths towards careers in journalism, video production, social media, marketing, public relations, and various other iterations of content creation.

“It’s opening their eyes to all the various avenues that are out there and gives our young men an opportunity to tap into to their creative potential” Johnson says.

Owen Kunko’s eyes are already wide open. A junior, he greatly expanded on the skills he developed at home during the pandemic once he got to La Salle’s expansive media labs.

“The seniors took me under their wings, and they taught me what I know today,” he says. “And then along with that, came Mr. Johnson’s guidance, experience, and expertise in the industry. He laid his knowledge upon me.”

And he took off. Kunko started his own small business, ALK Studios LLC, that now provides video and social media content to four recurring clients and a few other occasional ones.

“I’ve always loved basketball and I wanted to stay connected to that in some way,’’ says Kunko, who is targeting a career making documentaries. “So, I started producing basketball content for La Salle and outside of school. And then through that, I built my brand, ALK Studios. We partner with local high schools doing content for their varsity level teams, just providing video content for their social media pages and things of that nature.”

The breadth of La Salle’s media concentration will provide multiple avenues for students, from web design for businesses to creative writing to graphic design to multimedia journalism and storytelling.

All students will be required to complete an independent study project their senior year and to gain leadership experience through one of the school’s many media avenues, including WEXPtv, the school’s online media network; the Sports Information Club; the Esports program; and The Wisterian (school newspaper).

An Emmy-nominated television producer at Comcast Sportsnet in Philadelphia for 10 years before bringing his industry-knowledge to teaching, Johnson has experienced first-hand the dynamic nature of media and is acutely aware that a program like this must be able to pivot and adjust quickly.

“There’s going to be multiple tracks, tailored to what that student is interested in,’’ he says. “Some students may want to pursue a video production track where they are doing more shooting and editing. Some students might do more journalism and storytelling, whether you want to write or do that digitally. Some might want to take photography and graphic design and showcase their skills that way.”

Kunko is already an example of that. He began by making montages for a video game. That morphed into an eight-month stint in Esports, where he self-taught himself 3D animation. And that led to his current passion – live content, focused mostly on sports.

Next year? With the opportunities presented through the concentration, the media world is his oyster, as are his opportunities in choosing what college or university is best to pursue his passion.

Four of last year’s graduates went on to media majors at The University of Connecticut, James Madison University, Fairfield University and Duquesne University. “And they’re all off the bat as freshmen, helping with their sports information departments and their marketing departments.”

Those four young men also won the program’s first Mid-Atlantic High School Emmy for Sports Production last year.

Global research from Adobe – the industry-leader in creative production tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro – shows that tomorrow’s jobs will demand creative problem-solving skills.

All students at La Salle have access to Adobe Creative Cloud, and students in the concentration will harness the power of these creative tools daily to showcase their digital creativity – and have the opportunity to achieve professional-level certifications through the school’s on-site partnership with Certiport.

“The goal of this concentration program is to find more of those students like Owen,” says Johnson. “To give them more opportunities to get experience here at La Salle and some outside of school as well to help build their professional portfolio in high school.”

Learn more about the WEXPtv Media Program at www.lschs.org/WEXPtv.

“All these creative skills are skills that are in demand in the workforce. They’re in demand in different career paths, even if it’s not in communications.”

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ARTICLES

Hall of Fame Inductee 2023 Michael A. O’Toole ’68

A Storied Career In Lasallian Education

By Christopher M. Carabello ’82

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HIGHLIGHTS

M

ichael O’Toole ’68 is an educator

Masters degree in education.

leadership during the pandemic, most notably

with five decades of professional

Additionally, he participated in the inaugural

La Salle’s academic performance from March

Lasallian Social Justice Institute in 2004.

2020 to May 2021, is particularly noteworthy

experience who exhibits excellence in his vocation and

has risen to the pinnacle of his profession.

He served as Principal of La Salle College

High School for nine years (2012-2021). Prior to returning to his alma mater, he served as Principal of Holy Ghost Preparatory School in Bensalem, PA for seven years. Mike O’Toole is a member of the PAIS Commission on Accreditation, where he serves as an evaluator at independent schools in Pennsylvania seeking PAIS (formerly Middle States) accreditation.

He holds both an A.B. and M.A. in American Civilization from the University of Pennsylvania.

He was a Klingenstein Fellow in Independent School Leadership at Teachers College of Columbia University, where he also received a

as few other schools were able to accomplish Although retired as Principal,

what La Salle did for its students.

Mike O’Toole is in his 42nd year as a teacher at La Salle College High School (1974-2005,

Mike O’Toole has repeatedly

2012-present). His tenure is second only to

proven his willingness to assist La Salle College

Dave Diehl ’55 and Joe Ciccimaro ’57, both Hall

High School and the Alumni Association in the

of Fame Inductees. He was elected chairman

realization of La Salle’s mission of a Christian

of the English department at age 30 and served

education. He served as a member of the

as Director of Summer Programs for eleven

Alumni Association Board of Directors (1999-

years. He initiated and founded the Northwest

2002) as well as a member of the Board of

Scholars Program, an outreach program

Trustees (2000-2005, 2012-2021).

to Northwest Philadelphia neighborhoods

In addition, Mike O’Toole has also

that is now called the Saint Katharine Drexel

demonstrated tremendous service and

Program and is a viable component to the

contributions to the community having served

school’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

as Board Chair of Face to Face in the

(DEI) efforts. He was named Curriculum

Germantown section of Philadelphia and a

Associate and eventually served

member of the Advisory Board for De Paul

as the school’s first Director of

Catholic School in North Philadelphia.

Academic Technology, where he spearheaded the school’s initial technology plan and launched La Salle’s first website. He was the second Editor of the Explorer and was the long-time moderator of the Swim Team and, for the past five years, has served as moderator of the Squash Team.

Three new sports were added while Mike O’Toole was Principal along with 20 new clubs and activities, including Robotics and the expansion of the WEXP program. In addition, the student-to-faculty ratio was reduced to 9:1 with 121 faculty members from 93 different colleges and universities, 80% of which have an advanced degree (eight have doctorate degrees).

During Mike’s tenure as Principal,

Mike O’Toole clearly shares the Christian values of La Salle College High School, the Alumni Association, and the Christian Brothers.

He received the President’s Medal in 2005 and, in 2021, Mike O’Toole was the recipient of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award from the Christian Brothers, which is presented annually to an educator amongst all Lasallian schools for their outstanding work and dedication to the charism of Saint La Salle. It is the highest award given to a Lasallian educator.

enrollment increased by 7% and interest in the school was never

Mike and his wife,

higher. AP offerings and scholars

Mary Lou, reside in Elkins Park and Cape

remained a top the local catholic

May, where they spend time with their

and private schools in the area

daughter, Lara, two grandchildren, and their

as did the number of National

son, Dan ’05 – all of whom celebrate his

Merit Recognized students. His

induction in the Hall of Fame.

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ARTICLES

Hall of Fame Inductee 2023 Joseph A. Mihalich ’74

A Coach With More Than X’s and O’s

By Michael J. Winning ’74

T

he expectations growing up in the

who lives out the mission of Saint Vincent de

coached and mentored throughout his career.

Mihalich family were very simple and

Paul in providing selfless service to the poor

He has become close to many of those players

humble – get the most that you can

and marginalized.

who readily profess their love and admiration

from your education, find a career

for a man who is so much more to them than

that you will love, become the best you can be, and never forget there is nothing greater than

the love and loyalty of family. And through all of these, live your faith.

During his career, Joe won 408 games, won multiple coach of the year awards, and took his teams to 8 post-season tournaments. Joe accomplished this at two universities that were struggling to find their

As Joe Mihalich ’74 is inducted into the La Salle College High School Hall of Fame, one could argue that his induction is a direct result of these early learnings, learnings he has lived his entire life.

In 22 years as a head coach, Joe had a 100% graduation rate. He didn’t recruit just skilled basketball players. He recruited

parlance, he turned around two programs doing it in what he describes as “the right way.” Most significantly, Joe received the Skip Prosser Man of the Year award in 2013, given to the coach who displays moral integrity on and off the court. As he was taught, Joe found something he loved to do, and he clearly became one of the best.

In all the games Joe has coached, it has been rare not to see his dad or mom, his or in-laws sitting behind the bench. The only

education and learning as one of the only

criterion for their attendance was that the game

true paths to success in life. Joe learned that

had to be within a reasonable 8-hour drive. A

from not only his parents but from his long association with the Christian Brothers and he passed it on to the athletes whose care he was entrusted. He also has an advanced degree and taught math at a couple of his coaching stops.

In 2006, he received the Vincentian Award while at Niagara University, given to the person

expressions is “it’s not about the X’s and the O’s, it’s about the Jimmy’s and the Joe’s.” He wanted to understand them, and care for them beyond their basketball life.

identity in Division 1 basketball. In sports

wife Mary, sons, siblings, nieces, nephews,

dedicated student-athletes, players who saw

a basketball coach. One of Joe’s favorite

A simple definition of living the Lasallian mission is this: Influence young men so that they recognize that the surest way to success is through education, demonstrate the importance of love and community, emphasize why integrity is always crucial, and rely on your faith to face all that matters.

3-hour drive to a game was essentially around the corner. Joe’s dad had an expression that he often used about sharing in the highs and lows of a large family. He used to say, “if one of us gets cut, we all bleed,” a belief Joe has

Coach Mihalich, you have done all these extremely well. Congratulations on joining the La Salle College High School Hall of Fame.

passed on to his sons, Joey, Matt, and Tony. Joe also extended that philosophy to the players he

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HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

HALL OF ATHLETICS INDUCTION October 28, 2022 The 10th Annual Hall of Athletics Induction featured the induction of three athletes: John F. Burns, Jr. ’75 (Cross Country and Track and Field), Tucker Durkin ’09 (Lacrosse, Basketball, Football, and Golf), and Patrick J. Gallagher ’70 (Swimming). Long-time coaches John Costello (Baseball) and Kenneth Shaw, Jr. ’60 (Crew) were inducted for leadership and three teams were likewise inducted: Soccer 2006, Basketball 1962-1963, and Hockey 2007-2008.

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HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

AUCTION – “AN EVENING WITH GATSBY” November 5, 2022

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P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

DINNER DANCE – “IT HAD TO BE BLUE… AND A LITTLE GOLD, TOO” February 4, 2023 The annual event returned to Blue Bell Country Club with a celebration of the La Salle community.

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DEPARTMENTS

N E W S

N O T E S

1950s

1970s

ENDA R. COYNE ’50 and his wife, Peg, recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

RICHARD DILAURENZO ’70 is semi-retired Financial Planner now doing Christian Prison Ministry.

JOHN GRANOZIO ’52 is enjoying his life in Charleston, SC for the last 17 years.

PETER FREY ’56 enjoys monthly lunches with some of his classmates.

PAUL CHARLES AITA ’58 retired after many years as a General and Peripheral Vascular Surgeon at Reading Hospital.

EDWARD J. MILLER ’58 had his most recent book, “It’s About Eternal Life After All” appear in Lectio Divina Press in September 2021.

1960s REVEREND JOSEPH V. MULLIGAN ’64 is still active in ministry and pastoral care in the Charlotte, NC area.

ROB YACOBELLIS ’64 spent two months in Sydney, Australia to spend time with his new grandson.

GREGORY J. GIULIANO ’65 retired with 41 years teaching High School math – most notably Statistics (or as he refers “Sadistics”). He is also President of The Blind Man Interior Design.

EUGENE CATTIE ’66 is retired and living in Richmond, VA area, where all his children and grandchildren live. He spends February and March in Marco Island, FL. DAVID KREINES ’68 is still licensed as US Coast Guard Captain running his charter fishing boat from Beach Haven, NJ where he is also active with Surflight Theatre.

WILLIAM GEIGER ’72 retired from La Salle College High School at the end of the 2021-2022 academic year. He would like to thank everyone at La Salle for 41 great years.

1978 WILL CELBRATE THEIR

45-YEAR REUNION ON APRIL 22, 2023 KEVIN DOLAN ’78 is retired and half-living in Mays Landing and Wildwood, NJ.

GREG KOCHANOWICZ ’72 is enjoying La Salle College High School baseball games with great nephew – Pitcher Cole Kochanowicz ’24. Greg is an independent performing musician (available for events). See Greg Kochanowicz on Facebook.

HERMAN WEINRICH ’79 has three grandchildren. The youngest was born on his birthday, February 24th, so he now shares a birthday with grandson, Kevin James Manning III.

MICHAEL OSBORNE ’72 is looking forward to his 10th grandchild in May 2023.

1980s

1983

NICHOLAS RONGIONE ’72 is happily retired after 45 years in the business world.

1973

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

40-YEAR REUNION ON APRIL 22, 2023

WILL CELEBRATE THEIR

1988

50-YEAR REUNION IN CONJUNCTION WITH GRADUATION ON MAY 24-25, 2023

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

35-YEAR REUNION ON

CHRISTOPHER SZAL ’73 is a first time grandfather to Brooklyn Rose born March 9, 2022.

RICHARD TALMAGE ’72 is volunteering photography time to local history projects, house museums, and historical societies post-retirement.

APRIL 22, 2023 CONNELL MCCONEGHY ’88 has started his own brokerage company: CTM Liquor Licenses LLC. They broker liquor licenses in Pennsylvania.

DONALD J. RONGIONE ’75 is celebrating 41 years with Bollman Hat Company; half of which has been in the role of President and CEO. MARK ZIELINSKI ’77 retired in May 2022 after a 37 year career in law enforcement.

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1990s

2000s

DANIEL P. KEENAN ’91 recently joined Conner Strong & Buckelew as Vice President of New Business Development, Corporate Insurance.

DAVID NEWDECK ’92 earned two master’s degrees in education which are being put toward work at the Montgomery County Intermediate Unit.

1993

2003 WILL CELBRATE THEIR

2018

20-YEAR REUNION ON

5-YEAR REUNION ON

2008

15-YEAR REUNION ON

30-YEAR REUNION ON

APRIL 22, 2023

APRIL 22, 2023 JAMES E. MALONEY, JR., PE ’93 was named Regional Manager for JMT, an infrastructure consulting engineering, architecture, and construction management firm. He oversees 400 professionals in Pennsylvania and Ohio.

WILLIAM BELL ’94 has been promoted to Vice President of Business Enablement, Engagement and Training at FINRA.

1998

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

APRIL 22, 2023

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

COLIN CHRISTIE ’16 is pursuing a PhD in Applied Physics at Yale University.

2010s

APRIL 22, 2023 LUKE D. SZYSZKO’19 is graduating from Penn State University this spring with a B.S. in Kinesiology and plans to pursue graduate school for a doctorate in physical therapy.

2020s MICHAEL WILLIAM BROWN, JR. ’21 is a sophomore at the Air Force Academy.

KEVIN HARVEY, MD ’10 completed his Emergency Medicine residency at Reading Hospital and is now working as an ER Attending Physician with Geisinger Health System.

DONALD DIGNEY ’10 is co-Owner of Atlantic Security Specialists in Holland, PA. CHASE DIGNEY ’12 is a Manager at Springdance Hot Tubs in Jamison, PA

WILL CELBRATE THEIR

25-YEAR REUNION ON APRIL 22, 2023 ROBERT MILLER ’98 competed in the 2022 Annapolis to Bermuda Ocean Race.

2013 WILL CELBRATE THEIR

10-YEAR REUNION ON APRIL 22, 2023 MICHAEL EIFE ’13 and Carina Barreiro were married on July 2, 2022.

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N E W S

JOHN A. DUFFY III ’81, the owner of Stable Tables in Flourtown, has an eye for wood, although he is quick to tell you he’s no expert woodworker.

“There are a million guys out there that can do better woodworking than I can, but I just focus on what I know,” Duffy said, humbly.

Duffy and his business partner, Chris English, a carpenter by trade, own a furniture business that is different from most; since 2006 they’ve been building tables from reclaimed wood, giving the lumber a second life. From old barns and horse stables to bowling alleys, Duffy and English search, leaving no log unturned when searching for unusual pieces with which to work.

“After initially using exclusively old barn wood, we now incorporate wood from old houses and reclaimed, roughhewn lumber,” said Duffy. “A lot of other woods come from logs that are milled by local saw mills and then kiln dried.”

N O T E S

Duffy was previously an executive telecommunications operator, but he was looking for something more fulfilling at the same time he ordered a table from a carpenter in Maryland and then had to wait for 14 weeks before receiving it. You might say he followed the “Shark Tank” mantra of looking around for a need that the marketplace is not filling adequately and then figure out a way to fill it.

“It just requires more work.

They’re old floor joists, and they typically have knob wiring running through them, nails running through them,” he said.

Duffy will go through the wood he acquires and So Duffy came to the conclusion that there is an handpick logs he finds aesthetically pleasing, endless supply of wood that can be reclaimed he explained, as he motioned toward one of his from trees that collapsed due to old age, disease, table tops with tiny black grooves in it. insect infestation, weather calamities, etc. In fact, there are so many trees dying of natural causes “This one had some bug damage on the outside, that there is really no need to buy the wood from and then there were also mushrooms growing a company that is tearing down healthy trees. So on the outside. So I look for stuff that’s unusual it is a win-win for the environment as well as for that you can’t get anywhere else.” their business.

The end result is beautiful conference tables, Stable Tables works with several contractors side tables, coffee tables, desks and benches, and a Tacony trash transfer station, which supply etc. them with old wood from local buildings and houses, which would have otherwise ended up in a landfill. In fact, it also turns out that the best tables tend to come from the trees that have been the most damaged.

While Stable Tables has gained a faithful following of clients over the years (the business’ portfolio features restaurateurs and designers, as well as regular old folks just looking to furnish their home), Duffy stressed that he is not an artist, just a businessman with a passion.

Reclaimed wood typically requires more work, explained Duffy, but those imperfections are “I’m not an expert woodworker by any means. typically what he (and his clients) are looking for.

I know how to make a table. I have an eye for pretty wood. The wood’s the art. I know how to put it together, how to present it the best, but that’s just nature.”

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DE LA SALLE ANNUAL FUND

In Support of Need-Based Financial Aid

2022-2023

HELP THEM

THRIVE

Each year, support from our devoted alumni community allows us to offer the incredible opportunity of a life-changing Lasallian education.

AnnualFund-MainBooklet.indd 1

9/27/22 8:08 AM

Help us open the doors at 8605 to young men from across the Delaware Valley with a gift to your alma mater.

www.lschs.org/gift EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2023 29

DEPARTMENTS

W E

W E L C O M E

A N D

R E M E M B E R

(BIRTHS AND DEATHS AS OF FEBRUARY 22, 2023)

WE WELCOME

DOMENIC J. TRIOLO ’63

Faculty member Kelly Smith, and her husband, Peter, welcomed a son, Callum, on October 10, 2022.

JAMES A. DOWNEY, III, ESQ. ’64 GREGORY L. MOUNTAIN ’65, son of former librarian Mary Mountain; brother of Michael ’71 and Stephen ’72; uncle of Timothy P. Curran ’89(Dec’d.).

WE REMEMBER

THOMAS V. SIKINA ’68

REVEREND JOSEPH J. GETZ, OSA ’42

THOMAS J. CARROLL ’71, brother of James ’82

ANTHONY J. WALTON ’44 JOHN C. MACKIN, JR. ’45

JAMES D. GALEN ’73, brother of Timothy ’80 and the late Anthony ’68; uncle of Timothy ’03.

EDWARD J. STEMMLER, MD ’46

JOHN F. WEBER ’75

WILLIAM A. WHITESIDE, JR., ESQ. ’46, father of William ’72 and Michael ’73; grandfather of Andrew ’11.

WILLIAM J. MATTERN ’76, brother of Joseph ’83.

FRANCIS X. BALL, PE ’47, brother of Robert ’51.

EDWARD J. GALLAGHER ’47

KEVIN J. KELLY ’77, son of Philip ’51; brother of Philip ’74, uncle of the late Stephen Stanton ’09 and Aidan Gaab ’17.

VINCENT A. DELLAVALLE ’51

RICHARD J. WILLEMIN II ’77, brother of Robert ’69, Paul ’70(deceased), John ’71, and Anthony ’74.

CHARLES JOSEPH MCMAHON, JR. ’51, father of David ’87.

THOMAS J. BARTH ’80, brother of Frederick ’76.

EDWARD J. STROW, JR. DDS ’51

ANTHONY M. GALLO, ESQ. ’83, brother of Frank ’88.

HONORABLE JUDGE JOHN T.J. KELLY, JR. ’49, brother of Philip ’51.

THOMAS J. DEVLIN, PHD ’53, brother of David ’57.

JAMES P. MALONE, SR. ’53, father of James ’74 and Andrew ’78; grandfather of Patrick ’06 and Colin ’11 Malone.

WALTER F. STARET, SR. ’54 JAMES J. WALSH ’54 JOSEPH W. HEYER ’56 WILLIAM T. WARD ’56, brother of the late James Ward ’55.

JOSEPH M. DALY ’57

CHRISTOPHER A. GANNON ’85, brother of Francis ’82 and David ’83.

CHRISTOPHER W. MILES ’85, brother of John ’87.

JAMES BLOUNT III ’86, brother of Christopher ’87.

STEVEN M. BUONOMO ’88, brother of Joseph ’83 and David ’85.

JOHN L. PETKO ’88 MATTHEW T. BAUERLEIN ’90, brother of Mark ’80.

JAMES A. LANE ’57 LAWRENCE J. MCEVOY ’57 JOHN A. GALLAGHER ’58 JEROME F. LOMBARD ’58, father of Jerome ’79 and Andrew ’82; brother of John ’52; grandfather of Patrick ’05 and Kelly ’07 Lombard; father-in-law of Sean O’Hara ’89.

MICHAEL E. SULLIVAN, PHD ’58 PATRICK J. CONNER ’59, son of the late Earl ’33; brother of the late Thomas ’63.

CAPT. FRANCIS J. DRISCOLL, SR., USNR(RET) ’59 JOSEPH M. RIDGWAY ’59 FREDERICK J. SHAUGHNESSY ’59 THOMAS J. HIPP, MD ’61, father of Kevin’90 and Sean ’92; brother of Gerald ’57.

PATRICIA AMON, mother of staff member Cathleen Winning (Institutional Advancement); grandmother of Joseph Winning, Jr. ’05; mother-in-law of Bob Ellis ’68 and Joseph Winning ’69.

BERNADETTE T. BALCER, PHD, mother of A. Patrick Balcer III ’95.

PAETRUS F. BANMILLER, JR., father of Paetrus Banmiller III ’89; grandfather of Paetrus Banmiller IV ’23 and Maximillian Banmiller ’23.

CHARLES T. BOGLE, father of Charles ’87.

KATHERINE BOGLE, mother of Charles ’87.

CHRISTOPHER J. BOYLE, son-in-law of David Diehl ’55; brotherin-law of David Diehl ’78, Daniel Diehl ’85, and staff member Maura Diehl; uncle of Ryan ’01, Sean ’17 and Shea ’19 Diehl.

ROBERT CHAPMAN BRACE, father of Patrick Brace ’24.

SHERRY BROGAN, mother of Finnian ’24; sister of Alex Himes ’04; aunt of Harrison Himes ’21.

FRANCIS R. BYRNES, father of Michael ’77, Dennis ’78, Kevin ’80, and Stephen ’84.

LISA VIOLA KELLY, mother of Nicholas Jackson ’22 and Stephen Jackson ’25.

ROBERTA “BOBBIE” KOLONIS, grandmother of Thomas ’17 and Matthew ’19 Kolonis.

EILEEN LOSCALZO, wife of former staff member Albert Loscalzo.

DONNA CADDICK, grandmother of Jake Caddick ’19.

DOUGLAS J. MACMASTER III, father of Douglas ’15 and Keegan ’16.

PAUL J. CALLAHAN, father of Timothy ’92, Paul ’97, and Kyle ’00.

GIUSEPPE MANES, grandfather of Anthony ’14 and Alexander ’16 D’Angelo; father-in-law of Anthony D’Angelo ’86.

PEGGY CONNOLLY, mother of staff member Kathleen Smith; grandmother of Sean Smith ’08.

NANCY B. CURTIN, mother of former staff member Lisa Henrich; grandmother of D. Andrew ’07.

PETER DEPAUL, father of former trustee Donna Bartynski, the late Peter DePaul, Jr. ’79, Anthony DePaul ’80, Alfred Dragani ’81, John Dragani, Esq. ’84; father-in-law of John L. Williams ’73.

TERESITA M. DURKIN, mother of Donald ’73, Michael ’74, and James ’81; mother-in-law of Michael Flanigan ’81; sister of Brother Thomas Dunn, FSC ’50.

BEATRICE “BEATI” GATHMAN, former Mothers’ Club President; mother of Jason ’90 and David ’92; grandmother of David Gathman ’17.

EDWARD L. GILLETTE, JR., grandfather of Zachary ’17 and Gavin ’19 Moretski and Kevin Schmidt ’24; father-in-law of Kevin Schmidt ’91.

CESAR MANGUBA, grandfather of Andrew Lepore ’16 and Alexander Lepore ’19.

MICHAEL J. MATTIE, father of John ’18.

ANTOINETTE M. MARKOWSKI, grandmother of William ’15, Ryan ’18, and Matthew ’25 McDonnell.

ELEANOR T. MCGURKIN, mother of Paul ’72; grandmother of Paul McGurkin’00, Matthew McGurkin ’03, Gerald Fillman ’06, John Fillman ’15, and the late Timothy Pidgeon ’11.

JANE MIECZKOWSKI, sister of former faculty member Anthony Mieczkowski ’06.

ANNE MIRSCH, mother of Kevin ’83; grandmother of Michael ’17.

GEORGE M. MIRSCH, father of Kevin ’83; grandfather of Michael ’17.

KEVIN A. MULRAIN, father of Ryan ’98 and Jordan ’00.

THOMAS GOLLA, brother of former staff member Barbara Franks.

MARY POLLINO, mother of James ’77; grandmother of James III ’12.

PATRICIA GRIFFITH, wife of Robert ’62; grandmother of Robert Seiss ’09 and Ryan Seiss ’14.

BARBARA RESCH, mother of faculty member Anthony Resch; grandmother of Patrick ’10 and Conor ’13.

YOLANDA GUARRIERI, grandmother of Edward ’06.

JAMES A. ROGERS, father of James ’74 and John ’78.

JOANNE M. HANNA, grandmother of Kevin O’Donnell ’13; mother-in-law of Craig O’Donnell ’80.

JOHN J. ROONEY, father of the late James ’84 and Peter ’90; father-in-law of Sean Mahoney ’82.

HELEN HELMICK-WAITE, mother of F. Lawrence Helmick, Jr. ’84 and Timothy Helmick ’85; grandmother of Frederick Helmick ’17 and Tristan Helmick ’23.

MARION L. SANDMAN, mother of Richard Sandman, Esq. ’81.

CHARLOTTE HVORECKY, sister of Jude Hvorecky ’26.

MARGARET JOHNSTON, grandmother of Thomas Johnston ’15 and Charles Johnston ’23, Brennan Daly ’18, Sean Daly ’19, and Gavin Daly ’21; mother-in-law of Lawrence Daly ’86.

MARGARET C. JUNOD, wife of Michael ’70.

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL WINTER 2023 30

DOLORES SANTORO, mother of Louis Santoro ’74 and Christopher Santoro ’77; grandmother of Alec Santoro ’18 and Matthew Santoro ’18.

BROTHER DOMINIC SMITH, FSC NATALIE MARIE SUSANIN, Past President of the Mothers’ Club; mother of Peter, ’78, Timothy ’81, Jay ’83 and Christopher ’87.

DAVID WELZ, brother-in-law of faculty member Carol Haggerty.

GRAND REUNION SATURDAY, APRIL 22, 2023

CLASSES OF 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013, AND 2018

LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL GLASER CENTER

Registration Begins at 5:30 pm – Front Office Mass 6:00 pm Reception Begins at 7:00 pm For additional information, please contact Jill D’Angelo at (215) 402-4808 or dangeloj@lschs.org www.lschs.org/alumni

Explorer La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 Change Service Requested

DAVID T. DIEHL ’55 SCHOLARSHIP GOLF OUTING Tuesday, May 2, 2023

UNION LEAGUE LIBERTY HILL Lafayette Hill, PA 19444