McQuaid Jesuit Cauldron Spring 2025

The

FOR ALUMNI, FAMILIES, AND FRIENDS OF MCQUAID JESUIT | SPRING 2025

THE LEGACY CONTINUES

SPRING 2025

McQuaid’s Mission McQuaid Jesuit is a Catholic, Jesuit, college-preparatory school that inspires young men to realize their God-given gifts through the pursuit of excellence in all things, service to others, and a lifelong commitment to justice.

President Steve Salluzzo, '90, P '18

The Mahar Legacy 4

Editor Casey MacClaren, '12

Athletic Updates

Contributors Ben Bogdan, '17 Penny Gonzalez, P '16, P '18 Chase Hegedorn-Thoman, '26 Jackson Paladino, '27 Kristie Robertson-Coyne Henry Trost, '20 Heather Whiting, P '25, '28

Knights in Service 8

Background Photo: Middle School Chaplain, Fr. Jack Podsiado, S.J., '58, sits for an assembly alongside McQuaid's youngest Knights.

McQuaid Jesuit 1800 South Clinton Avenue Rochester, NY 14618 585-256-6139 2

Inside

Cauldron / Spring 2024

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BASH 2025

Jars of Clay

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Faculty Legacy

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In Memoriam

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Alumni Updates

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Fall Production

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The Cauldron is written and produced twice a year by the Advancement Office in conjunction with other offices, departments, and members of the McQuaid Jesuit community.

Knights in the Making:

How McQuaid Engages Future Students In the fall of 2023, I received an endearing Schoology message from a Freshman with a line that is still frequently quoted in our office.

“Another reason I would like to be a missionary…”

The sender was writing to explain why he wanted to become an “Admissions Ambassador,” a title given to students who serve as tour guides for prospective families. While the word choice was amusing, it unintentionally captured something true. In some ways, Admissions Ambassadors are missionaries—not in the traditional sense, but in how they introduce others to something transformative.

The message coincided with a change in McQuaid Jesuit’s admissions approach: rather than waiting for families to come to us, we are bringing the McQuaid experience to them.

Experience defines the McQuaid Admissions process. Each year, we meet families who are determining the right fit for their son’s future. Almost every current Knight can recall “shadowing,” when they followed a host student’s academic schedule through the vibrant halls, absorbed engaging lessons, and felt the camaraderie and care present here. Their parents likely joined for a tour where they witnessed a glimpse of formation in action, and contemplated the compounding effect it could have on their son, day after day.

Today, McQuaid students are coming from more schools and more districts than ever before.

Their interests, similarly, are increasingly diverse. The conventional enrollment pipeline has evolved into a landscape that, while exciting, is less predictable. Despite these shifts, demand for great education remains high, and McQuaid’s enduring holistic philosophy is as relevant as ever.

Since the fall of 2023, McQuaid’s Admissions outreach has expanded to include presence at local events all over the Rochester area throughout the calendar year. Additionally, McQuaid now hosts a variety of free on-campus events that are open to all students in grades 1-5.

“Youth Activity Days” span a range of themes such as theater, studio art, computer programming, and robotics.

We have met hundreds of families through these efforts. Whether by learning to tie a tie, kicking a penalty shot at halftime in front of a packed cheering section, or conducting experiments supervised by biology faculty in the STEM Center, more elementary students than ever before are experiencing McQuaid. We are heartened but not surprised by the positive reactions to what our school offers.

The McQuaid Admissions team will continue aiming to provide the proper introduction to a community where camaraderie, curiosity, and care are fostered. In experiencing McQuaid, it is my hope that each student and family discovers a transformative place they want to call home.

Written By: Ben Bogdan, '17

www.mcquaid.org

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The Mahar Family Legacy Seven Decades of Knights

Not long ago, the McQuaid Jesuit campus looked entirely different from the vibrant, expansive space we know today. When construction began in 1954 at 1800 South Clinton Avenue, the site was surrounded by little more than swampland. Over the decades, through thoughtful growth and development, McQuaid has transformed into a premier educational institution—now home to modern facilities like the Wegman Family STEM Center and the Deborah and John DiMarco, '60 Field House. Yet, even before these updates, McQuaid offered young men from the Rochester area an unparalleled education rooted in Jesuit values and a commitment to personal growth.

For the Mahar family, McQuaid has been more than just a school—it’s been a cornerstone of their lives for generations.

Remarkably, the Mahars have experienced nearly every era of McQuaid’s history, a testament to the school’s lasting impact.

Raymond Mahar, the founder and president of Mahar Business Forms, Inc., graduated from Aquinas in 1952. But when it came time to choose a high school for his sons—Al, '73, Ray Jr., '78, and Dan, '84—Raymond proudly traded maroon and white for black and gold.

“Our father went to Aquinas, and we grew up in Pittsford, but there was never any question that McQuaid was the high school for us,” said Al Mahar. “We all just loved it!” Al, who captained the varsity basketball team in 1973, paved the way for his younger brothers. He still remembers the profound influence of legendary McQuaid educators like Mr. Seymour and Coach Bradley. “They were great leaders, but they were also humble,” Al recalled. “They led without being big characters all the time.”

While Al set the tone, Ray and Dan made McQuaid their own. Ray served in Student Government and helped launch the first student-led BASH in 1978 alongside Phil DiPasquale, '78. Dan contributed to the Lance student newspaper, assisted with BASH, and played varsity soccer. Since Dan's graduation in 1984, McQuaid has continued to evolve—expanding its athletic offerings, strengthening academic resources, and deepening its commitment to Ignatian identity. But the Mahar legacy was far from over.

All three brothers remained in the Rochester area and went on to send their own sons to McQuaid. Al’s son Chase graduated in 2013. Ray’s sons, Jack, '08 and Ray III, '13, also became Knights. Dan and his wife Kiki, who had briefly relocated to Connecticut, moved back to Rochester before their sons reached middle school—drawn in part by the opportunity to give them the McQuaid experience. Dan’s sons Will, '14, Chris, '16, and John, '22 each followed in their father’s footsteps. “McQuaid wasn’t the reason we moved back to Rochester,” Dan said, “but it was definitely one of the advantages... we just thought Rochester is a great place to raise a family and McQuaid is part of that.”

The Mahar family tree of Knights doesn’t end there.

Their nephew, Brian Murray, '99, added another branch to the legacy—extending the Mahar presence at McQuaid across seven decades. Like their fathers and 4

Left to right: Al, '73, Dan, '84, and Ray Mahar Jr., '78

uncles before them, the Mahar cousins embraced the full McQuaid experience. Whether on the football field, the golf course, the Masterminds team, or the stage, they were all-in. For 15 consecutive years, from 2008 to 2022, a Mahar was active in life at McQuaid. “Our sons grew up close to one another,” Al said. “And they all picked McQuaid—it was automatic. One cousin would mention to the other cousin how great it was, and of course, that just ignites the enthusiasm.”

But the connections forged at McQuaid extend well beyond family ties. Al and Chase both count their McQuaid friendships as some of the most enduring and meaningful in their lives. “My son still sees his McQuaid buddies. I still spend time with mine,” said Al. “Obviously you make new friends but McQuaid seems to form these lifelong friendships where you just care and respect each other.”

Though McQuaid’s physical campus has changed dramatically since the first Mahars walked its halls, the heart of the school remains constant. “There’s just something about McQuaid,” Al reflected. “It’s a school that inspires friendships and camaraderie.

It’s part of the DNA of the school.”

With John’s graduation in 2022, there is currently a pause in the Mahar presence at McQuaid—but given the family’s deep ties and love for the school, it's safe to say it won’t be long before another Mahar is learning in the Wegman Center, playing on Tom Seymour Field, and writing the next chapter in this extraordinary legacy.

Ray Mahar III, '13

Brian Murray, '99

Jack Mahar, '08

Chase Mahar, '13

Will Mahar, '14

Chris Mahar, '16

John Mahar, '22

www.mcquaid.org

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Athletic Updates

College Commits We are incredibly proud to celebrate our senior student-athletes who have committed to continuing their athletic and academic journeys at the collegiate level. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and passion.

These young men have not only excelled in their respective sports, but have also demonstrated outstanding leadership, teamwork, and resilience throughout their time at McQuaid Jesuit. Their contributions will leave a lasting mark on McQuaid. Congratulations to these exceptional student athletes!

Left to right: Wes Warren - Canisius University Swimming Gavin Ray - Canisius University Swimming Max Schnittman - SUNY Geneseo Cross Country Pierce Meck - SUNY Canton Baseball

Brennan Hoelperl - Sacred Heart University Volleyball AJ Quagrello - University of Tampa Lacrosse Will Engle - Rollins College Lacrosse.

Not pictured: Jack Rawleigh - Utica University Lacrosse

Football

Will DiMarco, '25 completes a pass over three UPrep defenders 6

Cauldron / Spring 2025

As the defending champs, McQuaid was met with every opponent's best effort week after week. After a season filled with many fourth-quarter comebacks and last drive heroics, McQuaid finished the regular season 6-2. The Knights defeated Aquinas for a sixth year in a row, keeping the Challenge Trophy on our campus.

Fall 2024 Season Soccer The Knights put together another dominant year, going 12-1-1 in the regular season, winning the Rochester City Athletic Conference. McQuaid’s season ended with a loss to Fairport 3-2 (OT) in a heartbreaking Section V Championship game.

Kiernan McManus, '26 threads a pass through Wilson defenders

Thomas Steele, '27 takes first at the McQuaid Invitational

Cross-Country

Enrique Florez, '26 sets up the spike against Victor

Volleyball McQuaid hosted this year’s Jesuit Classic, welcoming the volleyball teams from Loyola Blakefield, Canisius, and East Aurora. The Knights finished the season with a 12-5 record. After an outstanding year, Brennan Hoelperl, ’25 was named to the All-Greater-Rochester first team!

Coach Todd Stewart’s varsity team was younger than many of his previous teams, but they were led by experienced senior Max Schnittman, ’25. Schnittman’s fantastic race at the Section V Championships earned him a third place finish and a spot at the New York State Championship meet later that November. Thomas Steele, ’27 won the McQuaid Invitational “Future Stars” Race, adding his name to an elite group of McQuaid runners who have won a race at the Invitational!

Crew

Fr. Jack Podsiadlo, S.J., '58 blesses Crew's new 8-man boat

The Crew team furthered the program's strong history at the Head of the Genesee Regatta in October. McQuaid's 8-man boat rowed a season best time of 17:46, earning a 5th place finish in the race. Fr. Jack Podsiadlo, S.J., '58 blessed the team's new boat, which was dedicated to Dr. Therese Lynch, P '76, '78, a long time supporter of the McQuaid Jesuit Crew team. www.mcquaid.org

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Knights in Service: Varsity Hockey Knights hit the ice with Flower City Special Hockey at the Scottsville Ice Arena

Athletes Making an Impact Beyond the Game At McQuaid Jesuit, the phrase “Men for Others” echoes through the halls as a constant reminder to give to our fellow person before thinking of ourselves. This spirit of service is woven into every aspect of the school, including our athletic programs.

From Christmas collections and fundraising for special causes to direct engagement with the community, McQuaid athletes continually strive to make a difference.

Two recent examples highlight this commitment: the varsity hockey team partnered with Flower City Special Hockey, and the varsity bowling team supported the Challenger Bowling program. Both initiatives serve athletes with developmental and physical disabilities, and the experiences have left a lasting impact on everyone involved.

The varsity hockey team took to the ice with Flower City Special Hockey, an organization that empowers individuals with special needs to learn and enjoy the sport. The McQuaid players laced up their skates alongside the Flower City athletes for a unique game that emphasized fun, inclusion, and friendship. The event was a powerful reminder of how sports can unite people from all walks of life. By sharing the ice, the players created a supportive atmosphere, learning firsthand about teamwork in a new context.

Senior Matt Hill recounted his experience saying, "I gained a lot of knowledge about how they play and who they are as people.

They were all friendly, nice and outgoing. And I hope that they experienced a good time competing against us and playing hockey."

Similarly, the varsity bowling team has been making a difference through its work with the Challenger Bowling program. Each week, McQuaid bowlers volunteer their time to assist and encourage Challenger athletes. The bowlers also sell 50/50 raffle tickets during league play to support the Challenger program. These interactions go beyond the lanes, fostering meaningful relationships and emphasizing the values of patience, kindness, and community. Coach MacClaren reflected, “It’s incredible to see our athletes embrace this opportunity to give back and share their love of bowling while learning so much in return.”

McQuaid Jesuit’s athletic programs are united by a shared mission to serve. The hockey and bowling teams’ partnerships with special needs programs highlight the power of sports to break down barriers and build connections. By volunteering in their communities, McQuaid athletes not only enhance the lives of others, but also grow into compassionate leaders who will carry the spirit of service with them long after the final whistle.

Written By: Casey MacClaren, '12 8

Cauldron / Spring 2025

Ball in the Family

Early this year, McQuaid’s 8th grade St.Ignatius

basketball team finished another successful

season, winning the Holiday Classic Tournament

at the University of Rochester. The St.Ignatius For the Ryans, McQuaid

team is coached by Mike W. Ryan, '01 and assisted Basketball is a family tradition

by his father Michael F. Ryan, '70. The familial ties

do not stop there. Starting at point guard is Written By: Henry Trost, '20 Michael M. Ryan, '29 (Mikey) who played a critical role in the team’s championship game! “Overall it’s just been a great experience,” said Mike W. “My dad coached me through eighth grade. So coaching Mikey together, sharing in that same experience, it’s pretty remarkable.” For Mike W. it hasn’t been very long since he was competing for the Knights himself. As a three-sport varsity athlete, Mike W’s proudest athletic achievement is the 2001 Section V title he helped McQuaid baseball capture. But for now, in the Ryan household, it is Michael F. who holds all the bragging rights. A McQuaid Jesuit Athletic Hall of Fame Member, Mike F. captained the football, basketball, and baseball teams his senior year. He was named to the All-Catholic team for all three sports and, after graduating McQuaid, Ryan would go on to play baseball at Cornell University, where he led the team in home runs and RBIs for the 1975 season. “A few years ago, when we played in the McQuaid tournament, Mikey had me take a picture in front of his grandpa’s Hall of Fame picture,” Mike W. explained. “At the time we hadn’t decided where to send him [Mikey]. After that, my wife just looked at me and said ‘Yep, he’s going here'.” Mikey, who is still just an eighth grader, may have some big shoes to fill. But, as long as there is a Ryan wearing black and gold, McQuaid athletics is in a great Mike F. Ryan, '70, Mikey M. Ryan, '29, place! and Mike W. Ryan, '01

www.mcquaid.org

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On March 22, 2025 McQuaid Jesuit hosted its largest annual fundraising event, BASH The Great Knight; Building Our Legacy Together. This year's event was an incredible success, bringing together our community in celebration and support of McQuaid's mission.

Thanks to the generosity of the McQuaid Jesuit community, the event raised over $700,000! The proceeds of BASH directly support student success through tuition aid and beyond.

The success of The Great Knight was largely made possible by the dedication of the BASH Chairs, parent volunteers, as well as the many students, faculty, and staff who contributed their time and talents.

McQuaid is especially grateful to our 2025 BASH chairs, Julie and Richard Gianforti, P ’25, and Stacy and John Schell, ’88, P ’26, for their leadership and commitment.

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to McQuaid Jesuit’s Board of Trustees, benefactors, sponsors, alumni, and friends. Your generosity ensures that our Knights may continue on their journeys of becoming great men.

From the Halls of McQuaid to the Hall of Fame In 2024, McQuaid Jesuit alumni Charlie Lowell, ’92 and Matthew Odmark, ’92, both members of the acclaimed Christian alternative rock band Jars of Clay, were inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. Their journey, from the halls of McQuaid to stages around the world, is a testament to the values instilled in them during their formative years.

While McQuaid was not necessarily known for an extensive music program during their time as students, Lowell and Odmark took hold of every opportunity to cultivate their passion for music. Both played in the school’s jazz band, and Lowell took a music history class that deepened his appreciation for the art form. Some of their biggest musical influence came from teachers Bob Schwartz, a songwriter who encouraged Matt Odmark, '92 & Charlie Lowell, '92 with their their creative pursuits, and John Finn, an English RMHoF induction awards teacher, who helped Lowell develop a love for fiction and poetry, which would later influence his songwriting.

Beyond academics, McQuaid’s emphasis on leadership, service, and brotherhood played a crucial role in shaping their careers. As Jars of Clay quickly gained popularity, they found themselves, at just 20 years old, in unexpected positions of influence. Navigating the pressures of performing and speaking about their faith required resilience, and the foundation of community they built at McQuaid proved invaluable.

Jars of Clay performs at the RMHoF celebration

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Following their time at McQuaid, Lowell and Odmark attended Greenville College in Illinois, where Jars of Clay began to take shape. What started as a group of friends writing songs in their dorm quickly evolved into a band recognized by their peers. With demos in hand, they decided to take a leap of faith and spend a summer in Nashville pursuing a record deal.

That decision proved pivotal. What was meant to be a temporary exploration turned into a lifelong career.

Jars of Clay’s breakout moment came in 1995 with the release of their self-titled debut album, featuring the hit single "Flood." The song gained mainstream success, propelling them into the national spotlight. Over the years, they continued to craft music that resonated with audiences, earning Grammy and Dove Awards while maintaining their unique blend of faith and artistry.

While their music has left a lasting impact, Lowell and Odmark are perhaps most proud of their philanthropic work. The duo co-founded the nonprofit organization Blood:Water, which partners with African communities to provide clean water and AIDS support. Through concert fundraisers and direct partnerships, they have made a tangible difference in the lives of many, reinforcing the values of service and leadership instilled in them at McQuaid and through their faith.

Reflecting on their journey, Lowell acknowledges the challenges of balancing a music career with personal and family commitments. The demands of touring took a toll, leading the band to step back from full-time performances in 2013. However, their passion for music remains, and they continue to collaborate with other artists, finding new ways to create and inspire.

Being inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame has been a particularly impactful experience for Lowell and Odmark. Growing up in Rochester, their musical education was shaped by classic and progressive rock, with long morning drives from Chili to McQuaid providing an informal, yet influential soundtrack. Record store visits after school further fueled their love for music. Now, as they reflect on their journey, they recognize the rich musical heritage of their hometown and the honor of being included among its legends.

For current McQuaid students dreaming of a career in music, Lowell offers simple yet powerful advice: “I encourage young artists and writers to do it because they love it, not for any agenda. Hone your craft- collaborate with others and say yes to every opportunity that feels like a growing or stretching invitation.” If he could tell his high school self anything, it would be to “embrace the chaos and laugh at the weirdness of it all.”

Even with their step back, Jars of Clay’s influence endures. Their music, their advocacy, and their journey serve as inspiration, not just to aspiring musicians but to anyone striving to make a meaningful impact in the world. For Charlie Lowell and Matthew Odmark, it all started at McQuaid, where lessons in faith, brotherhood, and service laid the foundation for a remarkable career and an enduring legacy.

Matt Odmark, '92 performing at the RMHoF induction

Written By: Casey MacClaren, '12 www.mcquaid.org

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Faculty and Staff Leave a Lasting Legacy McQuaid Jesuit’s legacy extends beyond second and third generation alumni. Currently, six faculty and staff members have a special distinction as “legacy” employees, following in the footsteps of their parents who were previous, or are current, employees. For these individuals, working at McQuaid is not only a professional commitment but also carries a deep personal connection that spans generations.

For each of these staff members, their experience of McQuaid began at home, where the Jesuit values were instilled long before they ever walked through its doors as employees. Whether it’s a shared passion for Jesuit education, a deep appreciation for the community spirit, or the opportunity to give back to the place that shaped their own lives, these “legacy” staff members have chosen to be a part of McQuaid's continuing mission.

The impact of their work is not just felt in the classrooms, offices, or hallways, they serve as living reminders of McQuaid’s lasting influence on families. As educators, administrators, and support staff, they bring unique perspectives.

In addition to these six “legacy” staff members, McQuaid is home to a married couple, a pair of brothers, 28 alumni, and 19 women who are married to alumni, current parents, or parents of alumni. All of our amazing faculty and staff help to create a connected community, continuing the traditions and values that have defined McQuaid for generations.

Dave Yendrzeski & Trevor Yendrzeski, '19

Tom Sprague & Brian Sprague, '00

Janice Matt & Jon Matt, '02

Larry Luciano & Nick Luciano, '16

Pam Vernetti & Ricky Vernetti, '05 Not Pictured: Mary Ellen Suter &Adrienne Suter

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Cauldron / Spring 2025

Your Legacy.

Their Future.

This is our goal...

No qualified student who is accepted at McQuaid Jesuit is ever denied admission for financial reasons.

Achieving this goal is only made possible because of YOU! When you make a planned gift to McQuaid Jesuit, you join countless others who have ensured that McQuaid can honor this commitment for current students and future generations of Knights.

The Fr. Noonan, S.J. Knights’ Heritage Society is comprised of alumni, parents, and friends who intend to leave a legacy in their own name or in the name of a loved one through a designation in their estate plans.

There are many ways to make a planned gift, all with their unique benefits for McQuaid Jesuit and for you as the donor: • Gift in your will of living trust • Gift of retirement plans • Gifts of real estate • Gift of life insurance • Gift of stocks In addition to reaching out to your accountant and/or estate attorney for financial and legal advice, please connect with Kristie Robertson-Coyne, Senior Director of Major Gifts, at McQuaid Jesuit for additional support. She can provide you with the appropriate language for your will and discuss meaningful opportunities for your gift designation at McQuaid. You can reach her at: krobertson-coyne@mcquaid.org or 585-256-6183. www.mcquaid.org

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In Memoriam Since our last Cauldron, we have received news that the following McQuaid Jesuit alumni have passed away. We extend our sincerest sympathy to the families of those listed below.

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George Lappen, '58

Robert Ryan, '59

Angelo Coccia, '60

Michael Naylon, '60

Robert Steinle, '60

Robert Wilson, '60

Frank O'Brien, '61

Harold Wolff, '61

W. Smith O'Brien, '62

Thomas Moynihan, '63

Thomas Prinzing, '64

Richard Hagadorn, '64

Cauldron / Spring 2025

Eugene Salmone, '64

Eugene Lenyk, '65

Edward McConville, '65

Timothy Boomer, '67

John Kelly, '67

Gerald Celantani, '68

Dennis McCluskey, '69

Patrick McCormack, '69

Theodore Colucci, '70

Robert Wanzer, '71

Robert Macko, '11

Jesse Lill, '12

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen. www.mcquaid.org

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Alumni Updates

1970

Joseph MacDonough has now been working in golf services for 50 years! Currently, working at Oak Hill Country Club, he is helping prepare for the 2027 U.S. Open Amatuer Championship.

1972

Tom Gaffney volunteers as a certified TaxAide Counselor for the AARP TaxAide Foundation. He recently took on the role of District Coordinator for Ulster and Sullivan counties in NY. Nationally, 1.1 million people used this free tax service. "Render unto Caesar..."

1977

1988

The 1988 Varsity Lacrosse Team, the inaugural lacrosse team at McQuaid was honored this past December, on campus, as part of a McQuaid Lacrosse Championship Celebration. While celebrating the 2024 team’s first New York State Championship in school history, the event welcomed all members of the original lacrosse team.

Scott Cottier, ’90, Gerry DiMarco, ’88, John DiMarco II, ’88, and Phil Pecora, ’88 were recognized at half-court during a varsity basketball game alongside the 2024 Champion Knights.

1994

Terry Lynch celebrates his 40th year at Downtown Cluster of Congregations this year. Working in Washington D.C., Terry and the Downtown Cluster of Congregations are committed to the preservation of human rights and providing resources for the homeless living in that area.

John Marrs and his wife Cindy have moved from Massachusetts to Charleston, South Carolina. They now live on the Isle of Palms.

1981

Michael Viscardi Jr. was promoted to a Market Manager position with Wilmington Advisors at M&T Bank. This spring will celebrate his 27th year working with M&T Bank!

1997 Bill Kober has been selected to be a volunteer photographer for the GridIron Greats Cigars with the Stars, a fundraiser being hosted by Brian Urlacher and Ron Jaworski to support retired NFL players in need of financial support. Photo courtesy of Bill Kober game 7 Stanley Cup Finals celebration.

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Cauldron / Spring 2025

Talisin Burton, Fred Moore, and Chistopher Vandetti have partnered together on a mission to provide more sandwiches to the Rochester area. The trio of ‘97 classmates have reopened a Jimmy John’s Sandwiches restaurant in Henrietta that had closed almost two years ago. The group plans to open three more Jimmy John’s over the next three years.

2001

2004 Brandon Reeves was recently featured in a commercial for Firehouse Subs’ Hook & Ladder Sandwich. He’s also been voice acting since January of 2022, lending his voice to national campaigns for HIMS, Chipotle, Bud Light, Starbucks, and many more.

2016 Chris Spinelli and his wife Tessa are new parents! Their twin daughters, Olivia and Addison, turned 1 year old this April.

2006

Alumni Updates

Patrick Freytag was named the new Chief Executive Office of Creation Technologies.

Before this promotion, Freytag was the Chief Financial Officer at Creation Technologies, a global specialty Electronics Manufacturing Services provider.

2009

Chris Zaepfel got married on September 1st to the greatest girl on earth! The wedding was celebrated and enjoyed by plenty of McQuaid alumni, spanning from graduating classes 2012 through 2016.

2018 Robert MacClaren recently became a Partner of Phillips Lytle LLP where he focuses his practice on banking and financial services law. Rob also contributes to municipal law as zoning board attorney and deputy town attorney for the Town of Gates.

Nate Brunacini started work as a Lab Engineer at the U of R Laboratory for Laser Energetics. He works in the Experimental Operations group for the OMEGA EP laser system.

www.mcquaid.org

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Alumni Updates

2019

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Abel Hagos now works as an Investment Banking Analyst for Baird, a financial services company based in Chicago. After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute last spring, Abel accepted a full-time position at Baird.

2023

2020

Kyle Sheppard begins his fourth year as President and Owner of his startup company, East Coast Van Life. Kyle and his team renovate customer’s vans into sleek and innovative mobile homes.

Cauldron / Spring 2025

Collin Brown, now a sophomore at Siena College, competes for the Saints cross-country and track and field teams.

At the NCAA Northeast Regional Championships, Brown’s time of 31:13 earned him 55th place in a field of almost 300 elite collegiate runners!

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McQuaid Jesuit Presents: Chicago - Teen Edition McQuaid Jesuit brought razzle-dazzle to the stage with its dynamic production of Chicago - Teen Edition, captivating audiences with sharp choreography, bold performances... "and all that Jazz." Performed by a talented cast of students, the show balanced high-energy musical numbers with moments of satire and drama, showcasing the depth of McQuaid’s performing arts program. With standout roles, striking costumes, and a skilled student-led stage/lighting crew, Chicago proved to be a high-energy theatrical experience that celebrated both the hard work and creative spirit of the school community.

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McQuaid Jesuit Presents: All Quiet on the Western Front

1 - Nathanial Lynch, '26 brings it home during his solo 2 - The cast performs the iconic song "We Both Reached for the Gun" 3 - Student actors tip their hats to Roxie Hart

In late November, McQuaid Jesuit brought history and humanity to the Leon J. Hogenkamp, S.J. Auditorium stage with an immersive production of All Quiet on the Western Front. The production featured a talented ensemble of student actors who vividly portrayed the harrowing realities of World War I. Behind the scenes, students worked tirelessly to create realistic sets and authentic costumes, transporting audiences to the frontlines of the conflict. www.mcquaid.org

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Lacrosse Raises Banners!

On December 20, McQuaid Jesuit celebrated the 2024 Lacrosse State Championship victory, earned last spring. Last year’s outstanding McQuaid Lacrosse season was the first-ever Section V Championship and New York State Championship the program has ever won. All members of the 2024 varsity lacrosse team were invited to a mass in the Fr. Edward Salmon Chapel and a reception in the Wegman STEM Center. As part of the McQuaid Lacrosse celebration, all members of the inaugural varsity lacrosse team, the 1988 team, were invited back to McQuaid for the event. The roster was much smaller back then, and, like any first-year team, the ‘88 Knights struggled to stack victories. But, they were critical in establishing one of McQuaid’s now proudest athletic programs. To conclude the celebration, the State Champion Lacrosse Knights were presented with their championship banners at halftime of the varsity basketball game. Joining their recognition at center-court were some of the inaugural team members; Scott Cottier, '90, P '19, Gerry DiMarco, '88, P '16, John DiMarco II, '88, P '18, '20, and Phil Pecora, '88, P '21. As we celebrate the incredible achievements of our students, it is impossible to ignore the paths forged by Knights of the past.

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Cauldron / Spring 2025

Whether you're celebrating 50 years post-graduation or simply looking to network with alumni in your area, the McQuaid Jesuit Alumni Association wants to help you remain connected with your fellow Knights! It is our mission to help facilitate these meaningful relationships with one another and with the school, whether you're in Rochester or across the country. Throughout the year the Alumni Association hosts events centered around being together as Knights. As we enter into reunion season, we encourage you to visit the Alumni Association page to see what's on the horizon!

For more information on the Alumni Association, please visit https://mcquaid.org/mcquaid-jesuit-alumni-association/ or email Henry Trost, '20 at alumni@mcquaid.org.

President Salluzzo, '90, P '18 hit the course with fellow alumni during the 2024 Fr. Mac Golf Tournament

Alumni from all decades gathered for the annual Alumni Bull Roast to kick off the holiday season

Joe Blake, '72 and Chuck Ryan, '72 , P '99, '06, at the Class of 1972 gathering

Visit the McQuaid Jesuit Alumni Association page

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