Summer 2021 Edition of The Explorer Magazine

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021

Explorer

To Strive To Seek To Find

WHAT’S INSIDE FEATURE

6

Explorer THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021

President Brother James L. Butler, FSC Principal James E. Fyke Vice President of Institutional Advancement Daniel L. McGowan Editor Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Contributing Writers Matthew Del Rio

ARTICLES

John P. Young ’83 Editorial and Production Assistance Cathleen P. Winning Photography Bradley Digital Christopher M. Carabello ’82 Flat Tail Photography, LLC Sam Fritch

3 SPORTS REPORT

Lifetouch Photography, Inc. Design Burns Design Group Address

HIGHLIGHTS

Explorer La Salle College High School 8605 Cheltenham Avenue Wyndmoor, PA 19038 215 233 2350 phone 215 836 4502 fax alumni@lschs.org www.lschs.org

14 PHOTO GALLERIES

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

DEPARTMENTS

2 FROM THE HIP ( LETTER FROM THE EDITOR)

4 LET US REMEMBER (LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT)

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

make all decisions regarding the content and information published in the magazine.

DEPARTMENTS

F R O M

T H E

H I P

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

M

y relationship with Mike

In 2001, we became colleagues when I returned

15 State Championships. Mike’s love for Music

O’Toole ’68 dates back

to La Salle as Director of Alumni Relations.

and The Arts is evident in the success of those

over 40 years to September

Four years later, I assumed his responsibilities

programs. Our technology is unmatched, and

of 1980 and my junior-year

in marketing, communications, and public

our AP and National Merit results are at the top

English class. I remember

relations. That summer and prior to Mike’s

amongst Catholic schools in the Mid-Atlantic

Macbeth and The Metamorphosis but am still

departure for Holy Ghost Prep, I published a

Region. More importantly, Mike has positioned

waiting for Godot. I vaguely remember the

short article about him in my first issue as Editor

La Salle well for what lies ahead. I titled that

second-floor classroom but definitely remember

of the Explorer. Fifty-some issues later, a more

first article in 2005, “A Man For All Seasons”.

his beard and command of the curriculum. What

detailed story appears across the pages that

I can personally attest that Mike has been that

I remember most is that he could teach, and

follow. The article by his former student John

and much more at his alma mater.

to this day, I still recall the way that he graded

Young ’83 along with Matt Del Rio tells the

papers with short phases that encouraged,

story of a man that has helped to transform an

almost demanded, great writing.

institution.

Jerry Hartey ’93 was my son, A.J.’s ’20, favorite teacher, so I had no chance in convincing him to take Mike O’Toole for AP English during his

Flash forward nineteen years when we were

Another of his former students, Mike Marek ’80

senior year. It’s a shame because he missed out

members of the Alumni Association Board

recently remarked that Mike O’Toole was

on a legendary teacher. Fortunately, thousands

of Directors. It was then that “Mr. O’Toole”

always “the smartest guy in the room”. While

of other students did not.

became “Mike” and he asked me to co-author

Mike is certainly a man of tremendous intellect,

(with another of my former English teachers, Ed

what I have grown to appreciate is that he is

Molush ’68) a feature article on the history of

more than just an alum or an administrator.

La Salle basketball for the Winter 2000 issue of

Like myself (and many others), Mike is a true

the Explorer. Little did I know that a few years

fan of the school and can be found at most

later I would succeed him as the Editor.

games, concerts, shows, and events. His

CHRISTOPHER M. CARABELLO ’82

passion for La Salle has guided his decisions,

EDITOR

Live Jesus In Our Hearts…Forever!

and since his return, La Salle College High School has excelled in every area. In his nine years as Principal, La Salle has captured 160 championships in sixteen different sports including two National Championships and

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 2

ARTICLES

S P O R T S R E P O R T

IN A YEAR WHERE INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS WAS NON-EXISTENT AT MANY SCHOOLS, LA SALLE DEMONSTRATED A GREAT COMMITMENT TO ITS STUDENT ATHLETES AND THEIR FAMILIES. Competition in the Philadelphia Catholic League did not commence until late fall and no Philadelphia Catholic League Championships were awarded until February, which resulted in La Salle going to extremes to provide competition for its athletic programs. Some programs traveled to remote parts of the state to play games, while others competed against schools in the Suburban One League (District 1). Despite the hardships, the Explorers had a tremendously rewarding athletic year. To ensure that parents and fans could watch and support these programs, the school invested in an intricate network of wireless cameras strategically positioned at venues (gym, fields, pool, and track) throughout the campus that provided live streams for every home event.

LA SALLE FIELDED

47 athletic teams in 19 different sports

During 2020-2021, La Salle won: 2 PENNSYLVANIA STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

La Salle has

Swimming and Baseball

776

H

student-athletes

357 are multi-sport athletes

103 of La Salle’s athletes are AP SCHOLARS

6 PHILADELPHIA CATHOLIC LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIPS Baseball, Bowling, Lacrosse, Swimming, Track and Field, and Volleyball H

In the last five years, La Salle has captured

87 championships in 16 different sports

34 members of the Class of 2021 will play 11 sports at 27 colleges and universities

33

9 DISTRICT 12 (CITY) CHAMPIONSHIPS

faculty members coach a sport

Baseball, Cross Country, Golf, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swimming, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Wrestling

17 of La Salle’s 19 head coaches

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 3

are members of the teaching faculty

DEPARTMENTS

L E T

U S

R E M E M B E R

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

DEAR ALUMNI, PARENTS, AND FRIENDS:

I

t was no doubt a stable world and a doubly stable La Salle when Michael O’Toole got off the public bus that made its way from Oxford Circle (with transfers enroute) in September of 1964. While

the name SEPTA itself was only two or three

weeks old, the transportation management model had yet to be implemented. La Salle had

settled into the new campus with a comfortable routine and familiar faces, having produced the first four-year Wyndmoor graduates the previous June. Brother Francis had been principal since the early 1950s. Well-known campus icons like Brother David Albert, Brother Emilian, Brother E. James, and the White Owl had navigated the move from Germantown to what was then the 19118 (though only for the 11 months since zip coding commenced). Obie and Tex were in the middle of their coaching careers. The only player missing from the original squad was Big Joe, who had been transferred off to northern Virginia by a changeminded provincial and replaced by Brother Carl.

God was in his heaven, and Father Amandus was in his confessional. Even nationally, value coherence could be found. While they may

Fast forward a bit to September 1974, when

Fast forward a good bit to June 2021, and

Michael O’Toole ’68 began his teaching career

Principal Michael O’Toole is concluding that

at La Salle. Brother Emilian had just died, and

phase of his long career in education. While the

a Brother from the college was brought in to

faculty and staff from that 1975 Blue and Gold

teach out the Latin program then thought an

divide almost equally into the still living and the

anachronism. Brother David Albert and his

living eternally, only Joe Ciccimaro ’57 remains

German Shepherd had been transferred to

on the faculty. Three Brothers will be teaching

Ammendale, where he himself was shepherding

faculty members next year, and three others

the retired Brothers. Gone were the suitcoats,

help out, like me. The ties are back, and the

the ties, and many requirements from the

students know instinctively when an occasion

bygone days of the classical and scientific

requires them to don the (de facto not de jure)

curricula. Gone also were many of the Brothers,

uniform navy blue blazer. The youngest fellow

vanishing in the exodus that followed the

alumnus on staff graduated about 40 years later

Second Vatican Council. Their replacements,

than Mr. O’Toole. The senior English curriculum

now less than half the faculty for the first time

still features a hefty dose of the Greeks and

ever, were themselves a hodgepodge, some

a sampling of the Absurdists, a sign of his

dressed in traditional robes, others in the now

enduring influence as onetime department chair.

nearly normative black suit and collar, others

Interestingly, in the year that just ended, there

in a vertigo-inducing array of plaids, paisleys,

were three sections of Latin I, two of Latin II

and stripes. The yearbooks of this era were

and III, and one of Latin IV with 22 students in

as topsy-turvy as the times. It’s difficult to find

it. No longer anachronistic, I guess.

anything or anyone. Some reject even basic conventions of print media—capitalization, for instance. President Nixon’s resignation the prior month had briefly assuaged the national mood which became inflamed again with President Ford’s pardon on September 8th.

The Class of 2021 concluded their time at La Salle in a period of tumult and anxiety that will likely prove as culturally disruptive as those six years between Michael O’Toole’s graduation and his return to the faculty were. While current discord in the body politic is for a later

not have been wild about Lyndon Johnson

generation to analyze, the COVID-19 pandemic

compared to the urbane and youthful JFK, the

undoubtedly catapulted secondary education

overwhelming majority of Americans rejected

into instructional delivery formats that were

Barry Goldwater’s viewpoint as reactionary.

considered “on the horizon” in the 2018-19 school year. Fortunately, Michael was already there intuitively and had the faculty thoroughly prepared to make the leap—technological and the leap of faith—in March 2020. On the affective side. Mike participated in the team effort that was needed to combat student isolation, anxiety, and motivational deficits as the pandemic dragged on for 15 months.

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“For your faithful people, Lord, life is changed, not ended”: this beautiful line from the Roman Missal aptly describes

As do the members of the Class of 2021. Despite facing greater adversity and disappointment than any class since those of the Second World

the transition that goes on in Michael O’Toole’s life now,

War, the 241 members of that class on earth,

even while you read (Though I can just see him roll his eyes

achieved much, enjoyed much, and conquered

when he appreciates this line comes from the Preface to the Eucharistic Prayer in the funeral liturgy.). After a brief sabbatical and having handed over the reins of day-to-day leadership to long-time teacher and capable administrator James E. Fyke, Mike will be back, faithfully assisting in college advising, library management, and, naturally, by teaching English. Like his predecessor Dave Diehl ’55, Mike still has more to contribute as he turns his energies to the

with one watching over them from heaven, have much. Their prom and graduation, under the stars and sky respectively, were occasions celebrating not only transitions, but victory. Their record may have a couple of asterisks in it—for example, they won three more District XII (City) Championships than PCLs due to the vagaries of fall and winter competition. But their legacy will endure as they exemplify for us the truth of that alliterative Latin aphorism: per aspera ad astera —“from hardship to the stars.”

Fraternally,

next chapter of his La Salle story.

BROTHER JAMES L. BUTLER, FSC PRESIDENT

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 5

ee ARTICLES

To Strive To Seek To Find

BY JOHN P. YOUNG ’83

WITH MATTHEW DEL RIO

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 6

ek Michael O’Toole entered La Salle in September, 1964, from Saint Martin of Tours Parochial School in Northeast Philadelphia, three months after his brother, Jack ’64, graduated. He traveled via the PTC (pre-SEPTA) three hours round trip each day, including a final halfmile walk from Willow Grove Avenue. The experience proved worth the time and the walk.

His Class of 1968 encountered an experience that

“introduced us to a larger world, transforming my life.”

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 7

His first year at Penn, Mike taught honors

Brother James explained the philosophy

algebra at Saint Martin’s on Monday nights.

of the La Salle Brothers in the 1960s, noting

Six years later he joined the faculty at

they were teachers who “wanted to move

La Salle, embracing the traditions of the

past rote learning toward more critical

Christian Brothers over a five-decade career

thinking.” Mike’s early teaching years in the

culminating in his return to La Salle as Principal

English Department brought him under

in 2012. Four months into his first term,

the influence of Gerry Tremblay, Bernie and

Hurricane Sandy disrupted school operations.

Eddie McCabe and he developed a reputation

During his last two years, COVID 19 shattered

as a challenging teacher. To long-time colleague

expectations of normality. As the Class of 2021

Joe Ciccimaro ’57 “He was a tough teacher,

graduates, Mike will complete his final term and

but he embraced the Lasallian tradition of

return to teaching and advising it. In many ways,

making sure that all kids, no matter their

his La Salle career has both paralleled and

skill level, have the opportunity to learn. This

impacted the evolution of the school

rang true whether Mike developed a special

which nourished his drive for excellence

arrangement for two top trumpet players to fit

and leadership.

AP English into their schedules or worked with John Grace ’73 to develop a cross-curricular

President Brother James Butler, FSC, who has worked with Mike since 2012, recalled his own work as a La Salle student-teacher in the early 1980s: “I have great memories of those

course for kids with minor learning challenges.”

Mike was elected English

days and those kids as my first introduction to

Department Chair at the age of

teaching under Brothers David Rogers and Tom

30 and ten years later, became

Speakman.” While the Brothers maintained a dominant presence, a growing number of

Director of the Summer Program.

lay faculty began impacting the school. Mike

His 11-year tenure as Director

recalled the Brothers’ charism and methods

FACULTY CREED We, the teachers of La Salle College High School, are challenged by the mandate of Saint John Baptist de La Salle to be actively involved in the ministry of touching hearts. Continually striving to embody the Lasallian Twelve Virtues of a Good Teacher, we embrace our mission to provide a quality education to the young men in our care. Giving life to the legacy of La Salle, we support education which realizes the excellence, dignity, and connectedness of each and every person in the La Salle College High School community.

We believe and affirm that through the practice of…

RESERVE We remain respectful of the student-teacher

coincided with the first decade of

relationship, as we create an openness in our

us how to think critically and introduced us to

Saint Michael Hall, where a new

a world of service. Brothers Paul, Joseph (Jim

inclusive.

library, computer center and air-

from his student days, “The Brothers taught

Roche) and Jerome Taylor challenged us to open our minds, at the same time fostering a

conditioned classrooms offered

friendly, supportive communal spirit.”

room to expand the program sixfold. He also initiated an outreach

classrooms which is both professional and

GENTLENESS We discipline with consistency and compassion, striving to develop each student’s mind, heart, and judgment.

program to Northwest Philadelphia

HUMILITY

neighborhoods. Current Summer

our students, and our colleagues as we work

We acknowledge our own gifts, the gifts of

Session Director Barbara Chesnik

towards a success shared in community.

touched on Principal O’Toole’s

PRUDENCE

ability to share his insights:

We strive to attain a balance between the expertise of our subject areas and the

“I was extremely fortunate to

commitment we have made to the total

rely on Mike’s prior experience

development of each student.

which offered me several

ZEAL

ideas for expansion. He always

We bring a devotion and passion to the everyday responsibilities of our ministry,

understands the importance of

believing that our efforts for the students, both

establishing a strong foundation

in and out of the classroom, are continuing

for incoming freshmen.”

God’s love in their lives.

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 8

Leadership skills evolve with new learning

In 2000, Mike was appointed Vice President

WISDOM

and new challenges. During the 1990s,

at La Salle, having declined a leadership offer

We communicate the knowledge of our

La Salle named Mike Curriculum Associate

from another independent school, and assumed

subject areas with a Lasallian dimension,

and simultaneously Director of Academic

responsibility for a portfolio of projects, from

presenting content in a way that best

Technology. He relocated to an office in the

editorship of the Explorer to school liaison

suits the individual student.

new computer center. “Bob Russell taught

during the construction of Sterner Hall to

programming classes on one side.” he

oversight of admissions for which he was asked

recalls, “The other side became a place for

to build upon his previous community outreach

interdisciplinary learning. La Salle was

programs. With seminal funding from the FSC

thinking bigger.”

Foundation, he created the Northwest Scholars

PATIENCE We accept the things that occur throughout the school day as part of God’s greater plan, trusting that through the continuing nature of imparting knowledge to our students His plan

Mid-career, Mike O’Toole also thought bigger.

for their salvation will unfold.

In 1994, he earned a year-long fellowship to attend the Klingenstein Center for Independent

VIGILANCE

School Leadership at Columbia University.

We demonstrate a singularity of purpose,

The program attracted teachers from schools

always remaining mindful of our commitment

such as Collegiate (NYC), St. Mary’s (OR),

to Lasallian education as we face the sometimes-difficult tasks of opening hearts and minds to God’s Love.

We share with our student’s love, hope, and an excitement for “living” out the “Good News” of the gospel, as we model how to be a person

value diversity and students will

Sterner, FSC and Principal Dave Diehl not

encounter a more diverse world

only supported Mike’s application but also

in college and their professional

tasked him with developing the school’s first Concurrent with La Salle’s first web site, the

endeavours.” Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council member Nary Smith notes that “Mike has been an amazing advocate and supporter for the DEI program, a visionary

Another important 1990s program responded to

who promotes the appropriate professional

decreases in the number of Christian Brothers:

development to ensure that we gain the

the La Salle Graduate Volunteer Program.

knowledge and are prepared for the job we do!”

encountering on their life journey.

The Brothers recognized the importance

GRAVITY

Saint La Salle through the formation of lay

We instill in our students the sense of the

faculty. Jim Tate ’94 and Chris Holwick ’94

seriousness of purpose in studying their

joined the program’s inaugural group and

subjects, and the importance of reflecting in

then the faculty in 1999, two of many current

their lives both a love of God’s creation and

teachers who re-entered La Salle through

their responsibility for keeping it sacred.

this program. Brother James emphasizes,

SILENCE

“The La Salle Volunteer Program

We center ourselves in order to hear the

is important with respect to the

Spirit leading us to know what is best

Management Kevin Dougherty ’00 notes,

to be diverse. The Brothers

plan debuted in 1995.

with them in the struggles they may be

the school. Vice President for Enrollment

educational issues in leadership, curriculum,

GENEROSITY

the spirituality of our life experience

program and enhance their roles in

School. His graduate cohort collaborated on

technology plan as his sabbatical project.

with the gift of ourselves, available to share

to African American Alumni to assist the

“The future of La Salle needs

for others.

We grace our colleagues and students

as the Drexel Program. He also reached out

Oxbow (CA) and Hong Kong International

mission, and equity. President Brother Rene

PIETY

Program, a program that continues today

of carrying on the spirit and traditions of

Mike enjoyed these varied leadership tasks, but desired a return to the daily school environment, and accepted an offer in 2005 to become Principal at Holy Ghost Prep.

“It was tough to leave La Salle after 31 years, but, like Odysseus, I wanted ’to strive, to seek, to find….’”

for our students, and also to be receptive

legacy of the Brothers. There is

to the spoken and unspoken language

a distinct La Salle culture, one

working to accentuate it within both

that people need to understand

academic and service programs,

and have enthusiasm for. Culture

core academic offerings, diversity and

of their hearts.

needs to evolve since teaching

He embraced the Spiritan school mission,

led a technology upgrade, and expanded service programs.

is a vocation where the teacher/ student relationship is at the center.”

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 9

ee In 2012, a new La Salle opportunity beckoned

Fundamentals of La Salle’s master school

and Mr. O’Toole became the School’s fourth

schedule had changed little since 1967.

lay Principal and Brother James Butler, FSC

Mike and his administrative team initiated a

the new President. The two were a formidable

process of schedule revision that continues

team. Joe Ciccimaro notes, “I was very excited

today, facilitating cycles of instruction, student

that they would be here together; they are both

participation, feedback, and follow-up teaching

academically and administratively experienced.”

within longer but less frequent class periods.

Kevin Dougherty knew Mike from his own

In 2017, the Glaser Center opened, facilitating

student days and was eager to work with him:

both schedule change and student opportunity.

“Mike was a La Salle guy through and through.”

Brother James recalls initial conversations about

Like many other independent schools since

the new center. “Mike advocated for a new

2012, La Salle has faced demographic hurdles

facility since it would give us greater flexibility

and has risen to the challenge. Brother James

in scheduling by reducing the number of lunch

explains, “The previous administration left

periods.” He also led an inclusive faculty

La Salle in a good place but there were still

effort to refine another Strategic Plan goal:

places to go. Technology, while strong, needed

defining “excellence in teaching,” a multi-year

to be placed in the hands of all students.

Teachers needed to use it as a resource.

undertaking inspired by the Twelve Virtues of a Good Lasallian Teacher. Extensive professional

Lasallian formation was key. The number of

development in assessment, technology and

Brothers was decreasing and growing the

feedback design accompanied schedule

endowment was vital to the future of

changes, which served La Salle exceptionally

the school.”

well during the challenges of COVID 19. Mike

Emerging school priorities prompted a

rethinking of teaching and learning toward

increased student-centered instruction, starting

with the one-to-one laptop program in 2013. As

reflects, “Changes in school life due to both

pandemic and generational shift have caused us to focus more sharply on what is essential and what is not.”

a new accreditation cycle approached, Mike

Kevin Dougherty describes curricular

articulated this rethinking, leading La Salle’s

changes during the past decade, such as the

transition to the more challenging protocol of

introduction of AP Human Geography (Grade

the Pennsylvania Association of Independent

9), as “fantastic strategic moves soon copied

Schools (PAIS). The accreditation committee

by other schools as testaments to creativity

recommended a revised master schedule, a

and effectiveness.” The School Administration

task fleshed out by the school’s subsequent

further accented the Lasallian philosophy of

Strategic Plan for the Third Decade of the New

“meeting students where they are,” expanding

Millennium. Brother James remarks, “Change

opportunities while continuing to be a place

was a major factor with respect to schedule.

for both rigor and innovation. Increased access

We needed one to meet the needs of teachers

to AP classes soon followed: enrollment

and students.”

in those classes more than doubled over the past decade while high levels of test scores continue. The number of technology courses has doubled, and the robotics program, originated in 2013, reached an important milestone in 2021: the District Chairman’s Award.

Mr. O’Toole’s senior English class resembled a college-level writing course as he guided us daily in developing our critical reading and analytical and persuasive writing skills. Clichés were unacceptable and the red notations on student writing papers early in that school year demonstrated that Mr. O’Toole recognized the life-long importance of these essential skills and challenged us in class to be active readers and precise writers.

S C O T T H . W O L P E R T, E S Q . ’ 8 4 M A N A G I N G P A R T N E R , T I M O N E Y

K N O X ,

L L P

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ek, EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 11

I went to Mr. O’Toole for every issue when I was at La Salle – financial, academic, and social. For Black students who were part of the Katharine Drexel Scholars Program, he was the person who kept us sane, focused, and committed. When he became principal of Holy Ghost Prep, he surprised us at our prom to wish us well.

He was with us from the beginning as our greatest champion and mentor and ensuring us that we had the ability to be excellent in all that we did.

A N T H O N Y A . P H I L L I P S ’ 0 6 E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R , Y O U T H

A C T I O N

TEACHING AND LEARNING IN ACTION Affirmed by La Salle Academic Council, April 14, 2021 Through planning and execution of professional assignments and responsibilities, the La Salle Teacher: • demonstrates active engagement with the full life of the school, both supporting and participating in Mission and Ministry and extra-curricular programs.

• endeavors to understand and support students through dedicated awareness of their backgrounds, interests, talents, abilities, and participation in school life.

• understands and promotes student-centered learning, prompting students to articulate their own feedback, understanding, and learning processes, constructing knowledge together with teacher and classmates.

• empowers students to think critically, to analyze and synthesize content, and justify personal positions and opinions with reasoned arguments.

• demonstrates and implements effective uses of multiple digital technologies in teaching • demonstrates the ability to pivot and change direction as needed based on student understanding and response.

• facilitates multiple forms of feedback: instant and general concept feedback, meaningful formative assessment, and ongoing feedback on learning progress, providing a pathway for students to learn from their mistakes and take ownership of their own learning.

• demonstrates the ability to model real life applications for topics and lessons and allows the opportunity for students to reflect and apply their own learning processes.

• collaborates with teachers of varying instructional styles to learn and adapt new teaching methods on a continuing basis.

• demonstrates engagement with her or his ongoing professional growth through careful planning of lessons as well as life-long learning and professional development.

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I remember the journals that we were required to keep one semester. Initially I looked at them as just another academic task. Over time though the exercise began to impact me the way I think Mike probably intended. I looked forward to writing about things that were on my mind (girls, college, the competition for grades, how the sky looked one day, contemplation about a new haircut) knowing that someone would read them. Mike wrote encouraging and sometimes funny notes that I think coaxed me to think and write more clearly. It also led me to write longer pieces based on a germ of an idea that Mike identified in his comments.

R I C H A R D C AT R A M B O N E , P H D ’ 7 8 P R O F E S S O R O F P S Y C H O L O G Y G E O R G I A I N S T I T U T E O F T E C H N O L O G Y

( G E O R G I A

T E C H )

Maintaining its Philadelphia area dominance

Focus on future Explorers is crucial. Building

As he now transitions to a six-month break

during this time, La Salle’s athletic program

each new freshman class, Kevin Dougherty

and a return to teaching and advising at

spawned three new teams: rugby, volleyball,

encounters many grade school communities,

La Salle, Mike is grateful for opportunities

and squash. Director of Student Activities

“We currently have the strongest enrollment

to serve La Salle over many years.

Marie Stott adds, “Mike has always advocated

in school history,” he observes. “Mike’s

Always eager for new challenges, he recalls

for new clubs to respond to student interest

dedication to La Salle and the Brothers is

joining La Salle’s emerging championship

and has been open to innovative ideas. During

evident in his leadership of the school, in his

swim team mid-season in 1986 as moderator,

the lockdown, he pushed for clubs to move

tireless commitment to developing 21st century

responding to an unexpected need. “I never

online so that students could stay engaged

skills in our student body, and in fostering and

imagined this long path, but in retrospect, it all

in their extracurricular activities.” Service

cultivating music, service, athletics, and the

seems to make sense. With grace and faith,

programs at La Salle also maintain high levels

IT program. Brother James and Mike work

many things are possible.”

of participation, from the long-running father-

very well together. “Families are aware of

son work at Face to Face Germantown to

Mr. O’Toole and the variety of options and

new projects in Puerto Rico and the Christian

opportunities made available because of his

Brothers school in Scampia, Italy.

work.” Brother James adds, “His strength lies

Mike also observed Saint La Salle’s injunction to “touch hearts.”

“He was at his best in times of distress and turmoil,” offers thirty-year veteran and Guidance Chair Marty Jackson, noting close consultations between Principal and Counselors for students in serious emotional or psychological trouble. “His calm and thoughtful insights in dealing with several serious student mental health issues during his nine years as Principal were admirable. His experience and wisdom aided students during their duress.”

in his willingness to accept and perhaps seek change, professionally or culturally.

The people he has brought into the school focus on academic excellence and school mission. La Salle compares favorably with the best schools in the state. We have worked well together with great respect for one another.

Parents also have a great deal of respect for him.”

After departing the Principal’s Chair, Mike will continue his work on the Advisory Board for De Paul Catholic School and as a member of the PAIS Commission on Accreditation. He is especially eager, however, to be able to spend more time with son Daniel ’05 in Washington, DC, and daughter Lara and grandchildren Lucy (age 5) and Julian (age 2) in Austin, TX. Most importantly, he hopes to be able to “repay forward” his constant companion, supporter, and, at times, necessary loving critic, his wife of 44 years, Mary Louise Castaldi. There will be more time

When asked about his accomplishments over

for dinner on time and household projects to

the past nine years, Mike points to “mission and

be finished. “Without Mary Lou’s love, advice,

people:” dedicated transmission of the Lasallian

and support, none of my school adventures

charism support and guidance for the teachers

would have been possible,” observes Mike.

who impact the lives of students. Roughly forty percent of current faculty have joined La Salle

“Mike’s leadership, especially during this

during his tenure, representing arguably the

pandemic, helped La Salle flourish when

most diverse set of backgrounds in school

other schools stumbled. His mandate to

history. Central to their professional orientation,

’maintain speed in the tunnel’ never was

a recently enacted three-year formation program

more prophetic. He led by example,”

highlights Lasallian history, pedagogy, and spirituality, modelled on the Buttimer Institute for Lasallian Education, a program Mike completed

notes Marty Jackson. Mike himself also credits frequent conversations with his

at Saint Mary’s College of California. Long-

sister, Maureen, director of a retirement

time Religion teacher, Mark Collins, comments,

community in Massachusetts, during

“When Mike became Principal, I began to

the pandemic. Another La Salle veteran,

appreciate and respect his embrace of Lasallian

Joe Ciccimaro, concludes, “Whatever

education. A person of great faith and intellect,

he attempts he puts his best into it.

he is highly professional yet practical and deeply committed to the well-being and success of our students.”

He is always at games, concerts, and activities. He has positioned La Salle to be a preeminent leader in all aspects of secondary education.”

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HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

GRAND REUNION A P R I L

10-Year Reunion – Class of 2010

3 0 ,

2 0 2 1

35-Year Reunion – Class of 1986

5-Year Reunion – Class of 2015

15-Year Reunion – Class of 2006

10-Year Reunion – Class of 2011

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30-Year Reunion – Class of 1990

30-Year Reunion – Class of 1991

5-Year Reunion – Class of 2016

35-Year Reunion – Class of 1985 EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 15

HIGHLIGHTS

APPLIED TO

296

colleges and universities in 42 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, China, Ireland, and Scotland

CLASS OF 2021

241 SENIORS GRADUATED ON MAY 27, 2021 came to La Salle from and

84 elementary schools

65 zip codes and China

ENTER TO LEARN 75% of the Class of 2021 was accepted to one of the Top 50 Most Competitive Colleges/Universities*

9

84

Members of the National Honor Society

National Merit Finalists

8

National Merit

Commended Students

ACCEPTED TO

LEAVE TO SERVE

240

3 graduates will attend the US Air Force Academy

colleges and universities

1 graduate will attend the US Naval Academy

the District of Columbia,

3 graduates have earned full ROTC Scholarships

in 40 states, Canada, China, and Ireland

34 young men will play 11 sports at 27 colleges and universities

ENROLLED AT

99 colleges and universities

in 25 states, the District of Columbia, China, and Ireland

83% OF THE CLASS OF 2021 earned in excess of

54 are private institutions 20 of which are Catholic colleges or universities 5 are Pennsylvania State System

in documented scholarships and grants

3 are Pennsylvania state-related universities 1 is a community college

$41 million

of Higher Education public universities

* Barron's Most Competitive and US News & World Report Top 50: National, Liberal Arts, or Public Colleges/Universities

EXPLORER THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LA SALLE COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER 2021 16

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

SENIOR AWARDS CEREMONY – CLASS OF 2021 M AY

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HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

B A C C A L A U R E AT E M A S S E S – C L A S S O F 2 0 2 1 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH DOYLESTOWN, PA M AY

2 5 ,

2 0 2 1

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HIGHLIGHTS

HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES – CLASS OF 2021 M AY

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HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

G R A N D PA R E N T S ’ D AY J U N E

2 ,

2 0 2 1

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HIGHLIGHTS

HIGHLIGHTS

P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

D A V I D T. D I E H L ’ 5 5 S C H O L A R S H I P G O L F O U T I N G WHITEMARSH VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB LAFAYETTE HILL, PA J U N E

2 1 ,

2 0 2 1

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P H O T O

G A L L E R I E S

SENIOR PROM M AY

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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 JUNE 25, 2021)

WE WELCOME

JAMES P. CATALINO ’56, grandfather of William Warrender ’06, Ryan Warrender ’08, James Catalino ’09, Shawn Warrender ’10, Christopher Catalino ’11, Colin McIntosh ’11, Michael Catalino ’13, Nicholas Catalino ’15, Ian McIntosh ’15, and Andrew Rakow ’24.

BRETT FOLEY ’00 and his wife, Ali, welcomed a daughter, Rowan Marie, on October 10, 2020.

MARK D’ANGELO ’02 and his wife, Gretchen Schulz D’Angelo, welcomed a baby girl, Dylan Hope, on February 1, 2021.

BERNARD A. FLANNERY ’56 SAMUEL MARTIN HERB ’56

THOMAS LITTLE ’05 and his wife, Ashlyn, welcomed a son, Bennett Reed, on April 24, 2021.

ROBERT W. LYONS, MD ’56, son of the late William ’26.

ROBERT STOTT ’06 and his wife, Marie (Science Department and Director of Student Activities), welcomed a son, Bryson Anthony, on September 17, 2020.

EUGENE F. DIRE ’45 JAMES J. PHELAN ’47 WILLIAM C. SEIBERLICH ’47, grandfather of Jack ’19 and Connor ’22 Seiberlich.

JAMES J. BELL ’48 PAUL A. MULLIN ’49, grandfather of Thomas ’12, Michael ’14, and Matthew ’25.

MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM F. BURNS, USA (RET) ’50, brother of the late John ’52 and James ’55.

JOSEPH F. KILROY, father of Michael ’95.

FRANCIS J. DUVAL ’63

MARY KLING, mother of Theodore ’80, Neill ’81, and Bernard ’86.

EDMUND SWIACKI, JR. ’63 JOHN M. DALY, MD ’65

THOMAS E. CROWE, ESQ. ’70 VICTOR A.E. POSPISCHIL ’77 THOMAS J. CONNOR ’81, brother of James ’79.

SEAN JOSEPH MAHONEY ’17

HOWARD BAILIN, grandfather of Arthur Bailin ’13.

DOLORES BARANOWSKI, grandmother of Thomas Winning ’06 and Brian Winning ’09.

WILLIAM J. QUIGLEY ’50

PAUL BENYOVSZKY, father of Paul ’78 and Christopher ’82; grandfather of Paul ’08 and Nicholas ’12.

FRANCIS X. DONOHOE ’51, father of Patrick ’78 and Michael ’79

JUDITH A. CIRELLI, mother of Charles T. Cirelli (Dean of Student Life).

WILLIAM T. MULLIGAN, SR. ’51

JOSEPH C. CIRELLI, father of Charles T. Cirelli (Dean of Student Life).

REV. MSGR. JOSEPH W. MURRAY ’51, son of Ignatius ’18; brother of Rev. Msgr.

Ignatius Murray ’48, John Murray, MD ’49, and Rev. Msgr. Thomas Murray ’59; uncle of the late John P. Murray ’76.

ROBERT R. BRAY, JR. ’52 JAMES J. CANALICHIO ’55 JOSEPH W. RUMER III ’55 JAMES J. WARD ’55, brother of William ’56.

HARRY HARTMAN, father of Christopher ’88.

RAYMOND L. WEINMANN ’59

MICHAEL P. FRIEDBERGER, PHD ’65

WE REMEMBER

MARY GUMROT, mother of Michael ’61 and Robert ’66.

LEO C. RODGERS ’58

STANLEY B. LOREK ’63

BRIDGET WHELAN (Mathematics Department) and her husband, Jack, welcomed a daughter, Scarlett Rae, on May 6, 2021.

DAVID T. GRAY, SR., father of David, Jr. ’19 and Dermot ’25; son-in-law of Edward J. Murphy ’51.

MARY K. KELLY, grandmother of Thomas ’00, Robert ’03 and Colin ’06 Miller; Robert ’09, Timothy ’17, and Daniel ’18 Kelly.

RICHARD L. HEPP ’57

D’JUAN LYONS (World Language Department) and his wife, Kerrin, welcomed a daughter, Consuelo “Sway” Elaine Lyons, on June 11, 2021.

CAROLYN J. GOZDECKI, mother of Mrs. Nancy Matthews; mother-in-law of William Matthews ’86; grandmother of William ’16, Christopher ’19, Zachary ’22, and Charles ’25.

CHARLES T. CONROY, grandfather of Thomas ’15 and Nicholas ’17 Conroy.

PATRICK EELLS, nephew of Brother Francis Xavier Eells, FSC. JOHN M. ELLIOTT, father of Kyle Elliott ’01.

TERESA ENGLER, mother of Past Mothers Club President Mary Jean Carabello; mother-inlaw of Christopher Carabello ’82; grandmother of A.J. Carabello ’20.

ATTRACTA (MISSY) MEENAN, mother of Patrick ’15 and Shane ’17; aunt of Ryan ’10, Christopher ’11, Timothy ’14, Conor ’17. and Brendan ’20 McElroy.

FRANCIS J. MCCANN, JR., father of Francis, III ’93, Peter ’97, the late Terrence ’03, and Brendan ’05; grandfather of Francis IV ’24.

CLARENCE MCGOWAN, father of Daniel McGowan (Vice President of Institutional Advancement) BROTHER EMERY C. MOLLENHAUER, FSC (Former Trustee) WALTER F. NORRIS, SR., father of Walter, Jr. ’80 and Brian ’82; grandfather of Spencer Norris ’17, Owen Norris ’21, Benjamin Herron ’21, and Sean Herron ’22; father-in-law of Drew Sweeney ’82.

FRANK D. O’DONNELL, father of Jeffrey ’78 and Craig ’80; grandfather of Kevin ’13.

FRANCES “JANE” PAUL, mother of late former Trustee John Paul; mother of Joseph Paul ’76 and Thomas Paul ’78; grandmother of J. Christopher Paul ’94, Jeffrey Paul ’01, and Daniel Paul ’09.

MICHAEL P. ROCKWOOD, father of Michael ’04.

EILEEN ROWLEY, wife of the late Edward ’49; mother of E. Mark Rowley ’82.

KAREN MARIE SABATINI, mother of Kevin Nolan ’22; wife of Peter Nolan ’78.

JOHN J. SKARBEK, father of Jason ’88.

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HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2021 THE TRADITION CONTINUES

SEPTEMBER 10 – 12 F R I D AY SEPTEMBER 10

S AT R D AY SEPTEMBER 11

Y O UNG A LUM NI G OLF OUT ING

Alumni Basketball Game (Gym) Alumni Lacrosse Game

HA LL OF AT H LET IC S INDUC T ION H

Varsity Baseball Blue vs. Gold Intersquad Game (Ward Field)

ATHLETES

Varsity Soccer vs. Christian Brothers Academy

Joseph C. Meade ’97 Basketball

Game Day Live (with Bob Long ’09 and Special Guests)

Garrett A. Miller ’95 Rowing/Crew

Varsity Football vs. Imhotep Charter (Springfield High School)

Donald M. Quinn, Jr. ’94 Ice Hockey and Baseball

Pre-Game 9/11 Tribute

Gavin Muir, MD ’87 Soccer, Wrestling, and Rowing/Crew

Halftime recognition of the athletes, coaches, and teams inducted into the Hall of Athletics.

H TEAMS

Game Streamed Live on WEXPtv

Football 2009-2010

Commemorative Gear For Sale

Tennis 1977-1978

H

Family BBQ

LEADERSHIP

Happy Hour at MaGerk’s Pub (Fort Washington, PA)

William L. “Bill” Leahy III Lacrosse

S U N D AY SEPTEMBER 12 Alumni Row (Boathouse No. 4)

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

Saturday, November 6, 2021 www.lschs.org/auction